The Northern Rivers Times News Edition 251

Documentary captures Troy Cassar Daley’s healing journey

A year after Troy Cassar-Daley laid bare his heart in Between the Fires, the acclaimed Australian country singer is preparing to share an even deeper chapter of his journey with fans in his hometown.

On April 30, Grafton’s historic Saraton Theatre will host a special screening of a new documentary chronicling the making of Between the Fires, a project flmed almost entirely at the property where Cassar-Daley grew up.

The screening will also feature a Q&A with flmmaker Michael Bryers, offering audiences a rare glimpse behind the curtain of one of Australia’s most beloved country artists.

Speaking with Cassar-Daley ahead of the screening, it’s clear this is no blockbuster event. Instead, it’s something far more meaningful: a journey of healing, memory, and homecoming.

“We just had a lot of friends say, when you make this record, maybe you should document it somehow,” Cassar-Daley said.

“So we went, yeah, why not? We didn’t exactly get any calls from Russell Crowe asking me to stand in for movies,” he laughed.

“It was really just us, making a record in Mum’s old place, and it helping me through a lot of grief.”

The grief he refers to is the loss of his mother, Irene Daley, a towering fgure in Grafton’s community.

For Cassar-Daley, returning to his childhood home to record an album was as much therapy as it was music.

“I didn’t realise the importance of music in that process of healing until I went through it myself,” he said. “I’d lost grandparents, uncles, aunties before, but this was different. Music became more than just a place to hide—it became a way to heal.”

The documentary captures that healing

journey, largely shot by Cassar-Daley’s friends and his drummer, who picked up a camera between sessions.

Directed by Belinda Miller, it was flmed in a raw, unvarnished style that perfectly matches the intimate subject matter.

“Belinda didn’t ask for repeat takes or anything like that. It was all done in one take—very natural,” Cassar-Daley said.

“It’s a real journey of how I healed after losing Mum. I just thought, maybe if we put this together, it could help other people too.”

It’s a generous spirit that runs through everything Cassar-Daley does. Despite the deeply personal nature of the project, he was adamant about sharing it.

“I think coming home recently to do the Cane Harvest Festival really reminded me how important it is to be back where you’re from,” he said. “I felt like I was 16 again on stage with Little Eagle. Being on country where you’re from, it’s so important to your healing.”

Cassar-Daley describes how he often advises friends going through tough times to simply book a trip back to their hometown.

“Whenever I’m feeling down, I book a trip back to Grafton,” he said. “It gives me a lift.”

Although Between the Fires had already been shown once during the Tamworth Country Music Festival, the Saraton screening carries a special signifcance.

“I’m hoping that anyone who comes along will understand how important growing up in the Clarence Valley was to me,” he said. “I carry it with me everywhere I go.”

Shooting the documentary wasn’t just about capturing the making of a record—it

myself in the mirror as a 55-year-old bloke, and thinking, I want to make music here today. It was surreal.”

The process of making the album was unpretentious and deeply personal. Instead of a big studio, the team set up equipment in his mother’s kitchen, art room, and lounge.

“We didn’t think for a minute that we’d get one Golden Guitar, let alone fve, or an ARIA,” he laughed. “I felt like the greediest pig at the

for what he thought were selfsh, personal reasons, resonated so widely with listeners.

“I was really surprised,” he said. “Each song went down and it was surreal seeing it all unfold. I guess people could hear the honesty in it.”

That honesty extended beyond the music to the very atmosphere in which it was created.

was about capturing a sense of place, and what that place meant.

“Every morning I was waking up in my childhood bed, my teenage bed,” CassarDaley said. “Looking at

Golden Guitars by the ffth one. But my friends said, well, this record deserves it—you put your heart into it.”

The irony isn’t lost on Cassar-Daley that a record made in the bush,

“We spent a lot of time standing around mum’s kitchen, breaking down songs, seeing whether we’d done things right,” he said.

“The kitchen was the epicentre of my world since I was nine years old.”

continued next page

Getting out into the yard to chop frewood was the start of the daily routine for Troy Cassar Daley when he was recording his latest album Between the Fires at his family home near Grafton. The story of the album’s creation is the subject of a documentary screening at Grafton’s Saraton Theatre on Wednesday.

Playing and recording his latest album at his family home was crucial to Troy Cassar Daley dealing with the grief of losing his beloved mum, Irene Daley in 2022. He has captured this in a documentary flm to screen in Grafton this week.

continued from previous page

The documentary shows this side of the process—the casual

and tears went into that place.”

That deep family connection radiates through the record

chats, the laughs, the shared memories, and the undercurrent of sadness and healing that fuelled the creative work.

Cassar-Daley is quick to acknowledge the hard work that made the old family property possible.

“Mum bought that property when we couldn’t afford it. She worked on the trains to help pay it off,” he said.

“We did all the clearing by hand, with axes and mattocks and shovels. So much blood, sweat,

and now through the documentary.

“I just wanted to make her proud,” he said. “I really felt like Mum was there with us. I’d even cook her favourite dishes during the week while we were recording—it felt like she was in the kitchen with us.”

Returning to Grafton for the Cane Harvest Festival earlier this year further cemented the importance of home for Cassar-Daley.

“Running into old

friends down the main street of Maclean was something else,” he said. “It felt like I’d walked back into a time warp of my own life.”

With familiar faces, memories fooding back, and a community spirit that hadn’t changed, Cassar-Daley found his heart reflled.

“I came back with a really full heart,” he said.

“That’s what Grafton does for me.”

That emotional recharge is at the heart of both Between the Fires and the documentary. It’s a love letter to Grafton, to the Clarence Valley, and to the people who shaped him.

And now, with the Saraton Theatre screening, Troy CassarDaley is inviting the community that raised him to share in that journey.

“I think people will see a beautiful bush block that’s a very real part of the Clarence Valley,” he said.

“I’m proud to be able to share that experience with them.”

Kyogle Sewerage Upgrade Moving Forward with Next Stage of Development

Kyogle is one step closer to delivering modern, environmentally sound sewerage infrastructure, with the next phase of planning now underway for a high-tech wastewater treatment plant that will serve the region for decades to come.

The NSW Government has committed $379,500, with Kyogle Council contributing $125,500, to fund concept designs and detailed site investigations—the groundwork needed to ensure the proposed plant is “shovel-ready” when construction funding becomes available. The updated designs and studies are expected to be completed by the end of 2025.

Originally built in 1957, the current Kyogle Sewage Treatment Plant has seen only minor

upgrades since the 1990s. It is increasingly unable to meet modern environmental discharge standards, prompting a shared commitment from the state and local government to begin planning its long-term replacement.

This phase builds on an earlier investment of $300,000, jointly funded in 2022 by the NSW Government and Kyogle Council, under the Safe and Secure Water Program, to begin early scoping work.

Member for Lismore Janelle Saffn highlighted the environmental importance of the project:

“Kyogle is a gateway to the Border Ranges and Toonumbar National Parks. This upgrade ensures we are protecting these natural treasures and the 2,500 residents who rely on

quality infrastructure.”

Kyogle Mayor Danielle Mulholland added:

“Effuent from the existing plant is already used in agricultural irrigation and some fows into the Richmond River, so it’s vital our treatment processes meet the highest standards. We’re preparing now to ensure we’re ready when the time comes to build.”

Once complete, the concept design will provide a clearer picture of the plant’s cost, scale, and environmental outcomes, paving the way for future construction and long-term service improvements.

Learn more about the Safe and Secure Water Program at: Safe and Secure Water Program – NSW Government

Troy Cassar Daley says the feeling and spirit captured by recording his album Between the Fires on the property near Grafton where he grew up was an integral part of its success.

Unfnished innings earns Baxter top award

generations of Clarence Valley cricketers.

When a cricketer goes past 50 his colleagues recognise the effort and go out of their way to show their appreciation.

This has been the story behind Clarence cricket legend Bruce Baxter, who has been recognised with a prestigious Cricket NSW Community Distinguished Service Award, after celebrating more than fve decades of tireless contribution to the sport in the region.

The award was presented at the Clarence River Cricket Association (CRCA) annual dinner and presentation night at Grafton District Services Club, where Baxter received a standing ovation from the packed room of players, offcials and guests.

Former Grafton umpire Darren Goodger, now one of Sydney’s most successful cricket umpires, delivered the tribute to Baxter.

Goodger spoke warmly of Baxter’s extraordinary service, both on and off the feld, describing him as “an outstanding advocate and stalwart of the sport” whose infuence has shaped

Baxter’s involvement with South Services Cricket Club (SSCC) began in 1973 as a player.

Over the next fve decades, he flled numerous roles including vice-president (1974-76), president (1977-2025), and coach (1977-2025), and earned Life Membership in 1980. His playing career extended until 2007, after which he continued to serve the game through umpiring and administration.

Within the CRCA, Baxter has been a constant presence since 1975, taking on duties as vice-president, secretary, president and long-time chair of the Fixtures Committee.

He was named a CRCA Life Member in 1988 and served more than 20 years as the association’s publicity offcer, promoting the game through radio and newspaper outlets.

Beyond the local level, Baxter contributed signifcantly to the North Coast Cricket Council, serving six years as vicepresident and fve years as CRCA’s delegate to the council.

Baxter also carved out a distinguished career as

an umpire.

Since 2008, he

has offciated in local, regional and representative competitions, serving leadership roles in the Clarence River District Cricket Umpires’ Association and the North Coast Cricket Umpires’ Association, where he was honoured with Life Membership in 2024.

His achievements included multiple appointments to fnals of the prestigious Regional T20 Bash at the Sydney Cricket Ground, as well as umpiring Country Cup fnals and the U14 State Challenge.

Even after retiring from representative umpiring in 2023, Baxter remained deeply involved as an Independent Country Umpire Selector and a Principal Member of the NSW Cricket Umpires’ and Scorers’ Association.

His commitment to developing young

cricketers is equally impressive.

For 50 consecutive seasons, Baxter has coached junior teams at SSCC, instilling in hundreds of young players the spirit, skills and love for the game.

“Bruce’s unparalleled dedication to cricket in the Clarence Valley is truly remarkable,” Goodger said.

“He has given so much to his club, his association and his community for over 50 years.

“It is only ftting that his incredible service has been recognised with this honour.”

The standing ovation that greeted Baxter’s acceptance spoke volumes about the high regard in which he is held across the cricketing community.

Bruce Baxter, left, receives his Cricket NSW Community Service Award from friend and leader umpire Darren Goodger at the CRCA Presentation Night early last month.

Having the chance to umpire on the hallowed turf of the Sydney Cricket Ground has been one of the highlights for Clarence Valley cricket umpire Bruce Baxter, right, was bestowed with a Cricket NSW Community Distinguished Service Award at the CRCA presentation night last month.

TIM HOWARD

Sodden day for remembrance

SAMANTHA ELLEY

The rain was unrelenting on Friday, ANZAC day as many gathered across

the Northern Rivers to commemorate the dawn service, remembering our fallen.

By mid-morning there

was enough of a break for the Woodburn march to make its way down River Street as traffc was stopped for a short period.

However, to ensure the crowd that gathered did not get wet, the service and wreath laying was held in the memorial hall.

Afterwards, as the servicemen and onlookers dispersed, pubs came alive to the sound of two-up being played as others had a quiet beer remembering fallen comrades and/or family members. Lest we forget.

Application for Appointment of Board Members

Kyogle Showground And Public Recreation Land Manager

Ever wondered who is responsible for keeping Crown reserves operating?

Countless facilities like showgrounds, local halls and parks are run by Statutory Land Manager Boards, made up of people just like you. People who understand the need and have a desire to manage public land and assets for the beneft of the entire community.

Your role as a Board Member is voluntary, but the rewards of giving something back to the community are priceless.

We are looking for a good mix of people with a variety of skills, however, sound business and fnancial management skills and objective decisionmaking expertise would be a distinct advantage.

Don’t let this opportunity to do something for yourself and your community pass you by – contact us today.

The Kyogle Showground And Public Recreation Land Manager manages the Reserve No. 540086 at Kyogle notifed on 24-Nov-1972 for Showground, Public Recreation. The term of appointment will be for a period not exceeding 5 years.

Application for membership can be made via portal.crownland.nsw.gov.au

All applications are required to be lodged by 29 May 2025

For further information contact Jacqueline (Jacky) Sue Wiblin on (02) 6883 5427 or go to reservemanager.crownland.nsw.gov.au

Kyogle Council Unveils $61.3 Million Budget

Focused on Growth, Infrastructure, and Future Prosperity

Kyogle Council has handed down a responsible and forward-focused $61.3 million draft budget, which Mayor Danielle Mulholland says will lay the foundations for sustainable growth and long-term prosperity across the region.

Adopted for public exhibition from Monday, 14 April, the draft budget earmarks major investments in infrastructure, essential services, and community facilities while reinforcing the Council’s vision for Kyogle as a place of lifestyle and opportunity.

“We are investing in the future of our communities,” Mayor Mulholland said. “This budget ensures Kyogle remains a great place to live and work — with the infrastructure needed for a growing and thriving population.”

Major Infrastructure Commitments

• $2.68 million for regional road projects

• $4.1 million for rural local roads

• $5.4 million for bridge upgrades

• $17 million over two years to construct a new sewerage treatment plant (STP) for Kyogle

• $6 million (forward

estimates) to sewer the villages of Wiangaree, Tabulam, and Mallanganee

• $2.5 million toward a new water supply for Tabulam

Crucially, a 10% increase in sewerage rates is proposed to help raise $4.25 million, a condition required to secure a $12.75 million State Government grant to fund the new STP.

“The current treatment plant is classifed as high risk and no longer meets environmental standards,” Cr Mulholland explained.

“A new plant is vital to meet compliance

and expand Kyogle’s capacity for growth.”

Community and Cultural Investments

The budget also includes allocations for community infrastructure and services:

• $783,674 for urban street upgrades

• $141,500 for the Roxy Gallery

• $614,490 for library and mobile library services

• $725,213 for maintaining the Council’s three public swimming pools

• $1.48 million for parks, gardens, and village maintenance

• $166,620 in

fnancial assistance and community donations

The budget includes a general rate increase of 4.1%, consistent with the NSW rate peg limit.

Community Consultation

Now Open

The draft budget is on public exhibition until 13 May 2025, with Council inviting community feedback. Full budget documents are available at:

• Kyogle Council Administration Centre, 1 Stratheden Street

• Council website: www.kyogle.nsw.gov.au

• Local distribution points including Wadeville store,

Woodenbong, Tabulam, Cawongla, Mallanganee, Wiangaree, and Bonalbo Post Offces

Written submissions must be received by 4pm, 13 May 2025, and should be addressed to the General Manager via:

• PO Box 11, Kyogle NSW 2474

• Email: council@ kyogle.nsw.gov.au

“With this budget, we are planning for a stronger future. It’s about providing the core services and capacity that make the Kyogle LGA a destination for lifestyle, opportunity, and growth,” said Mayor Mulholland.

THE GREENS - Leading on the importants issues for Australia

The federal election is approaching fast, and early voting is open.

I am standing for the Greens in Page because I believe they are the only party with the ambition and urgency required to address the many challenges our community and planet face. We develop principled, sensible and costed policies based on evidence from both experts and people’s lived experience. We don’t punch down on the vulnerable, seeking to divide our community by pitting those who are struggling against each other, but take

on the powerful. The Greens stand up for you and our precious natural home, rather than the billionaires and big corporate donors like the old parties do. Unlike them, we don’t treat voters like mugs – we release our policies long before an election, and they are not one-off election bribes, but changes that make a positive, structural difference to our lives both now and in the long term.

When people hear Greens policies, they like them. To see a GP for free and have 6 free government-run

community health centres in every electorate. Finally getting dental and full mental health services into Medicare. Properly funding our public schools. Free university and TAFE. Free universal childcare. Making the billionaires and big corporations pay their fair share of tax, so we can fund these services we need. Treating housing as human right for everyone rather a plaything of property speculators. Building enough public housing and making housing affordable for frst-home buyers and

DR LUKE ROBINSON

renters. Facing the reality of the climate crisis, stopping new coal and gas, and making fossilfuel companies help pay for our skyrocketing insurance. Investing in cheap and reliable renewable energy and ensuring workers can transition from old to new industries. Protecting our precious native forests, rivers and seas, and the threatened creatures that live in them. Cancelling the $375 billion AUKUS boondoggle with its handful of ill-suited nuclear submarines that will arrive either too late, under foreign command,

or not at all. Developing our own independent, echidna-style defence capability in light of an increasingly unreliable US `ally’. And supporting our First Nations peoples’ rights to self-determination over their own destiny.

On each of these issues and more, the Greens have been prepared to take the lead, far ahead of the old parties, and changed the debate in this country. This election, to keep Dutton out and force Labor to take real action, vote Green.

Dr Luke Robinson, Greens candidate for

Page

To fnd out more about our policies, go to: https://greens.org.au/ platform

To fnd out more about me or support my campaign, go to: Facebook: https:// www.facebook.com/ DrLukeForPage Website: https://greens. org.au/nsw/person/drluke-robinson

Authorised by A. Croft for The Greens NSW. 19/1 Hordern Place Camperdown NSW 2050

JEFF GIBBS

Primex 2025: A Packed Program of Industry, Innovation and Community Events

and resilience in rural communities.

The Norco Primex Field Days, Australia’s premier sustainable farming and primary industries expo, is gearing up for another major showcase under the theme “Our Future in Farming.” Scheduled across several dates throughout May 2025, this year’s program promises a dynamic lineup of industry events, networking functions, educational presentations, and family-friendly attractions — both on and off-site. With a strong focus on innovation, collaboration, and community engagement, Primex 2025 offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to connect with leaders across agriculture, agribusiness, education, forestry, and more.

Key Program Highlights

• Northern Rivers Food Harvest Trail (1–31 May 2025)

A month-long celebration of local food, produce, and farming excellence across the Northern Rivers region.

• NRCF Women’s Giving Circle Breakfast (15 May 2025)

Titled “Women, Wellness and The Land,” this event will explore women’s leadership

• Municipal Works Australia Local Government Networking Event (15 May 2025)

An essential gathering for local government leaders and infrastructure specialists.

• Forestry & Timber Industry Dinner (15 May 2025, Casino RSL Club)

An evening to celebrate achievements and address future opportunities within the forestry sector.

• Local Land Services Morning Tea: ‘Beyond Disasters & Biosecurity’ (16 May 2025)

Focused on resilience building and agricultural biosecurity challenges.

• Business NSW –North Coast Lunch (16 May 2025)

A key event for business leaders to network and discuss growth opportunities across the region.

• T & W McCormack Working Dog Trials and Sale (16–17 May 2025) Watch top sheepdogs showcase their skills in competition, culminating in a working dog auction.

• Our Future in Livestock Discussion Panel (16 May 2025)

Featuring industry leaders including Jason Strong, Robert Mackenzie, and Zoe Carter, exploring the future of Australia’s livestock sector.

• Young Aggies North Coast Ag Careers & Networking Function (16 May 2025) Aimed at supporting the next generation of agricultural professionals.

• GNF Commercial Heifer Sale (17 May 2025)

A premier livestock sale event for commercial buyers and breeders. Major Attractions and Family Entertainment

Primex Field Days promises a true family outing experience with a huge range of attractions including:

• Machinery demonstrations

• Live entertainment

• Hands-on workshops and industry showcases

• Interactive exhibits

• Rides and activities for kids

There will also be dozens of industry-specifc hubs covering sectors such as agtech and innovation, horticulture, forestry and timber, livestock, health and wellbeing, regenerative agriculture, 4WD and outdoor leisure, and affordable housing.

Pre-Event Industry Activities

Ahead of the main event, Primex partnered with key regional organisations for two major pre-expo initiatives:

• Oz Group Growers Innovation Showcase (9 April 2025)

At the Seaview Hotel, Woolgoolga, leading North Coast blueberry producer Oz Group highlighted cutting-edge agricultural technologies set to feature at Primex.

• Clarence Canegrowers Centenary Farm Tour (9 April 2025)

A special bus tour and display showcasing innovative machinery

for sugarcane and soybean production, celebrating 100 years of Clarence Canegrowers Association.

A Must-Attend Industry Gathering

As one of Australia’s most diverse and dynamic agricultural events, Norco Primex Field Days 2025 promises to deliver unmatched opportunities for learning, collaboration, and celebration across the primary industries sector. For full event details, ticketing, and updates, visit the offcial website: www.primex.net.au

ROBERT HEYWARD

MAGICAL SOUTH AMERICA 2025 21

Inclusions:

 Return Transfers from home to airport

 Return International Airfares ex Gold Coast

 Machu Picchu - Ollantaytambo Ruins * Secret Valley Train

journeys & Urubamba * Uros & Taquile Islands at Lake Titicaca

* Unique Iguazu Falls * Peruvian Amazon Rain Forest

 Quality Accommodation throughout with breakfast daily

 All sightseeing and entrance fees as per itinerary

 Daily Breakfast, 11 Dinners and 8 lunches

 Explore Singapore like a local with a professional guide

 Escorted by a Casino Travel Shoppe Staff Member

Travel Dates: 23 October to November 2025

See the best of South America including Chile, Peru and Argentina with the highlight of Machu Picchu and the Peruvian Rain Forest. Travel through South America by way of jungle, waterfalls and ancient ruins. See the floating islands of Lake Titicaca and step into the footsteps of an ancient civilization on the Machu Picchu. Embrace the country life of Chile in local vineyards and enjoy the cosmopolitan hotspot of Buenos Aires.

ISCOVER SINGAPORE 2025 8 Days Fully Escorted Tour

Inclusions:

 Return Transfers from home to airport

 Return International Airfares ex Brisbane

 All local transport in Singapore

 Quality Accommodation

 All sightseeing and entrance fees as per itinerary

 Daily Breakfast, 3 Dinners and 2 lunches

 Explore Singapore like a local with a professional guide

 Escorted by a Casino Travel Shoppe Staff Member

Travel Dates: 27 August to 03 September 2025

Discover Singapore! Uncover the city’s captivating history, from British colonization to its wartime occupation by the Japanese, to the vibrant modern metropolis it is today. Indulge in a culinary adventure with a food tour that showcases Singapore’s passion for flavours. Marvel at the iconic Gardens by the Bay and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Botanic Gardens. Visit the world-renowned Singapore Zoo and embark on an unforgettable Night Safari experience.

Murwillumbah Club Honours ANZAC Legacy with New Tribute Mural

In the lead-up to ANZAC Day, the Murwillumbah Services Memorial Club has put up the fnishing touches on a powerful new mural, created to honour the region’s service men and women and refect the deep respect held by the local community.

Phil Kelly, CEO of the Murwillumbah Services Memorial Club, said the initiative is a heartfelt tribute commissioned by the Club’s Board.

“The Board of Murwillumbah Services Memorial Club wanted to pay tribute to the servicemen and women from Murwillumbah and the Tweed, and so an artwork was agreed on,” Mr Kelly said.

The mural, created by local artist James, has been in the works since December 2024, with multiple design drafts before fnal approval in early April.

“This artwork has been in planning since December, with many drafts before we signed off in early April. The Board and I wanted to have this tribute completed in time for ANZAC Day and with the support of the artist, James, we are on target.”

The artwork will serve not only as a commemorative piece for the local ex-service community but as a landmark for residents and visitors alike.

“Murwillumbah

Services Memorial Club has a long history of supporting our ex-service community, and this artwork we believe is a real tribute to those who have served this great country.”

Mr Kelly also hopes the piece will spark refection and education, especially among younger Australians.

“The meaning of ‘Lest We Forget’ should never be forgotten, and we need to ensure that younger Australians fully understand the sacrifces made by so many to protect our great country.”

“This tribute is not

Protect Your Home and Save with NSW Battery Incentives!

In today’s world of unpredictable weather and rising energy prices, it’s more important than ever to secure your home’s power. The NSW Government is ofering new incentives to help you install a residential battery storage system with or without a Virtual Power Plant (VPP) with benefts that go beyond just power protection.

Why Invest in a Battery System?

• Stay Powered During Blackouts: Keep your lights on and essential devices running when the grid goes down.

• Save on Your Energy Bills: Use your battery to store solar energy when rates are low and use it during peak times for savings.

• Earn Money Back: Sell excess energy to the grid during peak hours for a fnancial return on your investment.

NSW Battery Incentives for Homes & Businesses with Solar

You could receive up to $3,600* of the cost of installing a battery, depending on the size, plus additional savings for connecting your battery to a VPP.

For Homes & Businesses Without Solar

This incentive can be included in a new solar and battery system installation, making it easier than ever to get started.

By installing batteries across the state, we’re helping create a more reliable grid, reducing our reliance on fossil fuels, and working toward a 70% emissions reduction by 2035.

Take advantage of these limited time incentives and future proof your home today! For full terms and conditions and to learn how much you can actually save call us or visit saegroup.com.au to learn more.

only for our ex-service personnel and those currently serving, but

Get in touch with SAE Group today to find out more

to the Murwillumbah community. We hope it will be included in

the Mural Arts Trail to attract visitors to Murwillumbah.”

How to Vote for

KEVIN HOGAN

FEDERAL MEMBER for Page

House of Representatives Ballot Paper

Electoral Division of Page

WELLS, Richard

PIKE, Donna Lee

BACKHOUS, Wendy

HOGAN, Kevin THE NATIONALS

BAKER, Jennifer

ROBINSON, Luke

WILLIAMS, Brenton

GRADY, Andrew

COLLESS, Jordan

NOTTLE, Peter

PIANCA, Josh

Coaches to Replace GraftonSydney XPT Services During Upgrades

NSW TrainLink will introduce premium coach services between Grafton and Sydney from 28 April 2025, as part of a major program to refurbish the iconic XPT feet.

The daily coaches will temporarily replace the 5.15am Grafton to Sydney and 11.44am Sydney to Grafton XPT services for 12 months. North coastbased Forest Coach Lines will operate the service using NSW TrainLinkbranded, air-conditioned, wheelchair-accessible coaches equipped with toilet facilities.

Passengers can choose between express or selected stop services, designed to keep journey times as close as possible to the existing train schedule by bypassing some regular XPT stations.

Rail options will remain available through the Sydney to Brisbane and Sydney to Casino XPT services, as well as regular NSW TrainLink coaches and connecting local buses.

The temporary change allows more XPT carriages to undergo essential mechanical upgrades and interior refurbishments

under the Life Extension Project, enhancing comfort, cleanliness, and reliability for regional passengers.

NSW TrainLink Acting Chief Executive Yvonne Hinch said the work aims to deliver a signifcantly improved travel experience.

“We’re overhauling the XPTs inside and out, and while these changes mean a temporary shift in service for GraftonSydney passengers, we’re committed to minimising disruption and maintaining strong connections across the network,” Ms Hinch said.

New Premium Grafton Coach Timetable:

• Express:

o 151 Sydney to Grafton: Departs 11.35am, arrives 9.55pm

o 152 Grafton to Sydney: Departs 5.25am, arrives 3.45pm

• Selected Stops:

o 153 Sydney to Grafton: Departs 11.30am, arrives 10.35pm

o 154 Grafton to Sydney: Departs 4.15am, arrives 3.20pm

Plan your journey at www. transportnsw.info/trip or visit Transport NSW News.

Diary of a Flood Survivor

The weekend was where I got to put the fnal touches to the room downstairs.

Well, not the fnal, fnal touches, but defnitely where we can have visitors come and stay again, or our son when he comes home from university.

I am waiting on a cover from Temu for the wing-backed chair in the room and a blind for the window, so early mornings aren’t such a shock for those who have the pleasure of sleeping there.

All in all, while I was putting the room together, I felt like Joanna Gaines from Fixer Upper on the Lifestyle channel.

In no way did I have her budget or her excellent style, but I had fun.

I was speaking to a lady on the weekend who mentioned she was still working on her food-affected house.

The tone of her voice and the slump

of her shoulders was a giveaway that there were plenty of other activities she would rather be doing.

I get that.

To think that three years after our huge event, we are still working on our houses or, at least, trying to fnd a way to get them back to a liveable state, seems beyond

comprehension. It was never going to be a sprint.

When someone plans a renovation, they usually have a time frame and the budget. They have their building team together and have sourced all their products.

When a huge food wipes away your house, you don’t have

a building team, a timeframe or a budget.

In fact, you had no idea on that weekend in February that your home was going to need a complete makeover.

I have taken the attitude that while looking at the whole task is overwhelming, I would only work on small things at a time. And that’s what we have been doing for the past three years as I continue with my mantra of ‘little steps’. Now that the downstairs bedroom is fnished, this week I will paint the laundry door. Little steps.

We’re among the 10 lowest fee funds in Australia*.

When you’re with Australian Food Super, you know you’re getting very good value. Australian super regulator, APRA, rates us in the top 10 funds with the lowest fees in Australia**. So that, coupled with our solid investment returns means more of your money is working for you.

What’s more, Australian Food Super offers a host of other benefts designed with members in mind. Competitive insurance products, online access, a mobile phone app, as well as specialist advice to help keep your retirement savings on track.

And we’re also very proud to be a Major Partner of Casino Beef Week 2025 and the Super Saturday Street Festival.

So if you’re not with Australian Food Super, why don’t you take a look at how we can help you. Call your Client Services Manager, Justine Hayes, on 0409 907 408 or visit www.ausfoodsuper.com.au

Congratulations to William (Bill) Evans – 2025 Seniors Local Achievement Award Recipient

Secrets uncovered in this mystery thriller

Title: The Ledge

Author: Christian White

Price: $18.00

Distributor: Booktopia By Samantha Elley

If you love a good mystery with a loud gasping twist, then this is the book for you.

A secret, hidden for many years, is uncovered when human remains are found in the depths of the forest in regional Victoria.

Old school friends gather to remember the events of 1999 when one of them, at 16 years of age, ran away from home.

His actions had dragged his friends into an horrifc chain of repercussions that sit with them in the years that followed.

We proudly celebrate the outstanding service of William (Bill) Evans, who was honoured with the 2025 Seniors Local Achievement Award, presented by our local Member of Parliament, Richie Williamson.

Bill has dedicated over 40 years of service to the Casino VRA Rescue Squad. His unwavering commitment, tireless efforts, and selfess contribution to the safety and well-being of our community stand as a shining example of true community spirit.

Equally deserving of recognition is Bill’s wife, Kay, who has stood beside him every step of the way. Bill has dedicated this

achievement to Kay, acknowledging her unwavering support throughout the decades.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Bill on this well-deserved recognition and thank him and Kay for their incredible service to our community.

Grants Up to $15,000 Available for Yamba Community Projects

JEFF GIBBS

As the friends gather to plan their next strategy, they are older and battle weary from life, having to adjust to carry the weight of their secret into their marriages and families and it is wearing thin.

The reader is guided through the events of 1999 into the group’s secret, culminating into a tense and horrifc twist.

I guarantee you will fnd this book, think Stephen King (specifcally The Stand) meets Lord of the Flies, very hard to put down and you can thank Australian author, Christian White for that.

His frst book, The Nowhere Child was shortlisted for some major awards and his second book The Wife and the Widow became an instant bestseller. You can buy your copy of The Ledge from booktopia.com. au

Grassroots organisations in the Yamba port community are being urged to apply for the 2025 Port Authority Community Grants Program, which is now offcially open. Local groups have until 20 May 2025 to submit their applications for funding of up to $15,000 per project.

The program, run by the Port Authority of New South Wales, is designed to support initiatives that strengthen community ties, promote sustainability, and improve wellbeing in areas surrounding the state’s ports.

Supporting Local Impact

Port Authority Acting Chief Executive Offcer John McKenna

emphasised the importance of maintaining a close relationship with port communities.

“Our ports are strongly linked to our communities and our Community Grants program gives us an opportunity to give back to important local initiatives,” Mr McKenna said.

“We are proud to play an active role within our port communities.”

Applications will be reviewed by a panel that includes locallybased Port Authority employees, ensuring the fnal recipients refect the needs and priorities of the Yamba area.

Boosting Recovery and Wellbeing in Northern Rivers

Yamba Harbour

Master, Captain Vikas Bangia, highlighted the signifcance of this

year’s grants, especially given the challenges faced by the community in the wake of recent fooding.

“The people of Yamba have always been a tight-knit group that have supported one another in challenging times,”

Captain Bangia said.

“As the region recovers from the recent fooding, we want to be able to support projects and initiatives that can help the community come together and have a positive impact.”

What Projects Qualify?

Funding will be awarded to community-focused initiatives that meet at least one of the following criteria:

• Strengthen community connections or resilience

• Promote environmental sustainability

• Improve health and

wellbeing in the port’s surrounding areas

This could include environmental clean-up events, health and wellness workshops, youth engagement programs, or community recovery initiatives.

Apply Now Community organisations and notfor-profts in and around Yamba are encouraged to apply online at the Port Authority of NSW’s Community Grants portal:

Community grants

| Port Authority New South Wales Applications close: Monday, 20 May 2025

Successful recipients announced: July 2025

This grant program represents a valuable opportunity for local groups to gain fnancial backing for projects that make a real difference in the Yamba community.

Do It For Dolly Day GO BLUE TO END BULLYING

Friday, May 9th 2025

Why take part?

Join us on May 9th for ‘Do It For Dolly Day!’

Wear blue, raise awareness, and give a voice to those silenced by bullying. Every donation goes directly to Dolly’s Dream’s vital anti-bullying programs in schools across Australia, even in the most distant rural communities.

When you go BLUE, you are doing more than wearing Dolly Everett’s favourite colour. You are are helping raise funds to support the vital work of Dolly’s Deam, and spreading the message that no child or family should have to face the devastating impact of bullying alone.

Thank all the business’ below for their support in 2025

Dolly Everett’s dream of a kinder world, free from bullying

At the beginning of 2018, the country was devastated by the untimely death of 14-year- old

Dolly Everett who took her own life a er an extended period of bullying and cyber-bullying.

About Dolly’s Dream

Inspired by her spirit and fuelled by hope, Dolly’s parents set out on a mission to create a kinder, safer world for every child.

Dolly’s Dream was created by Kate and Tick Everett following the shattering loss of their 14-year-old daughter, Dolly, to suicide, after ongoing bullying. Kate and Tick’s goal is to prevent other families walking this road. They want to change the culture of bullying by addressing the impact of bullying, anxiety, depression and youth suicide, through education and direct support to young people and families.

Dolly’s Dream is proudly brought to you by the Alannah & Madeline Foundation.

“Leemo has views on just about anything”

RICH/POOR – UPPER/ MIDDLE CLASS??

‘Leemo Cat’ back.

‘Mum Jane’, are WE, (Me & You) Rich or Poor; ‘Upper or Middle Class’? WELL?

‘Good Lord Leems, what a most curious question you’ve put to me? Is there an out of the ordinary reason you asked this question? Are your treats too meagre & not frequent enough? Are your 5 plush blue blankies threadbare?

Is one of your beds lumpy? Do you need a better brush? A jewel encrusted fea/ tick collar? Perhaps you’re thinking you’d like more $95 visits to the nice Vet? Are the treats I provide you & your buddies lacking? Well?’ (OMG, Mum is really tiresome since she became old!)

Hmmm! A plan is needed. ‘Mum, NUP, I don’t want any of that stuff. I only asked ‘cos you know how much I like watching ‘Bluey’ & hoped you might buy me my own TV for MY room; ‘YOU frequently interrupt when I’m watching ‘Bluey’& put YOUR shows on our ONE TV’. CAN we buy me my own TV or can’t we afford it ‘cos we’re poor? AND, Mum, think about the ‘educational benefts’ having my own TV would bring. As well as ‘Bluey’ I could watch stuff like David Attenborough’s history on the ‘Mating Habits of the rare Mongolian 3 legged

Tiger Ant’ or even ‘Handy Household Uses for Elephant Dung‘. ‘Ooooh, thanks Leems, that reminds me; ‘I’ made a cake of fresh elephant dung for a friend when I lived in Botswana. I covered the dung cake in the thickest stiffest icing I could invent & when he cut it a farty smell hissed out on escaping from the confnes of the icing. He was rather cross.’ ‘MUM, stop rabbiting on…CAN I have my own TV or not?’ ‘Hmmm my boy, let me again contemplate your question ‘Are me & you Rich or Poor, Upper or Middle Class? Well, Leems, I’m not sure WHERE we ft? Lets make a deal. Research compiled by Sheppard & Biddle (ANU) identifes 6 Classes of people in Australia; YOU read the study and report back; if you correctly identify which Class ‘me & you’ belong to I WILL ‘consider’ buying you your own TV - gottit? (I’ll let you use our computer for research!)

Here’s the list: 1) PRECARIATS 2) AGEING WORKERS 3) NEW WORKERS 4) ESTABLISHED MIDDLE CLASS 5) EMERGING AFFLUENTS & 6) ESTABLISHED AFFLUENTS.’

Bloody hell, my simple question has become a debacle, so I shouted. ‘Mum, I reckon this whole study is nebulous rubbish. Does it matter if we are rich, poor, upper or middle class so long as we care for and look out for each other. SO, let’s have purry pats & hugs & watch ‘Bluey’? Ooooh, at THAT suggestion, Mum hugged me & said I could have a 12” TV in MY room BY TOMORROW!! Yippee!) Nitey, Leemo.

Lismore Swim Club Makes Waves with Remarkable 62% Membership Growth

JEFF GIBBS

In a remarkable story of resilience, community, and sporting spirit, the Lismore Workers Swim Team has recorded a 62% increase in membership over the past year — a major milestone as the town continues its recovery from the 2022 foods.

While swimming clubs across the country face declining numbers and concerns grow over children’s swimming profciency — with nearly one in three Australian children unable to swim 50 metres unaided — the Lismore Workers Swim Team is experiencing a powerful resurgence.

Earlier this season, the team proudly hosted its frst carnival since the foods, drawing swimmers from across the Northern Rivers and beyond. The event marked a triumphant return to form and showcased the strength of the local swimming community.

Coaching Spark Ignites Performance

A driving force behind the team’s recent success has been the arrival of Coach Kerrie Seymour, who joined Lismore Workers from Darwin

Swimming Club late last year. Her enthusiasm, experience, and emphasis on performance have led to an uplift in personal best times recorded during weekly club night races.

“It’s been an incredible four months,” said Coach Kerrie. “From the moment I arrived, I could feel the passion and potential in this club. Watching swimmers grow in skill and confdence—and seeing so many new faces join the team—has been hugely rewarding. The community here is something really special.”

Year-Round Swimming Culture

Unlike many regional clubs that pause during colder months, Lismore Workers Swim Team maintains a year-round program. On 28 April, the team transitions from its home pool at the Lismore Memorial Baths to Southern Cross University’s heated indoor facility, ensuring continued training in comfort throughout winter.

This consistency has proven a key to retaining and attracting swimmers of all ages, from beginners in learn-to-swim programs to competitive athletes

striving for personal bests and podiums.

A Welcoming Environment for All Levels

The club’s welcoming approach, supportive culture, and structured development pathways have created an environment where swimmers thrive.

“We’re seeing new swimmers join almost every week,” said a club spokesperson. “Whether your child is just starting out or already racing

competitively, we’ve got a place for them.”

To book a swim assessment, interested families can contact the club via email at lwstsecretary@gmail. com, or reach out through their Facebook or Instagram pages.

As the Lismore Workers Swim Team continues to grow, it’s clear that this once food-affected club has become a beacon of strength — both in and out of the pool.

Casino Gears Up for the 2025 North Coast Petroleum Truck Show

The countdown has offcially begun for one of Australia’s premier trucking events—the 2025 North Coast Petroleum Casino Truck Show, set to take place on Saturday, August 2, in the heart of Casino, New South Wales. With less than 100 days remaining, anticipation is building for a day flled with impressive rigs, industry showcases, and familyfriendly entertainment.

Event Highlights

• Friday Night Lights: Sponsored by All American Custom Chrome, the festivities kick off on Friday evening as downtown Casino transforms into a vibrant display of illuminated trucks. Live entertainment will set the tone for the weekend, inviting spectators of all ages to enjoy the festive atmosphere.

• Dawson’s Haulage Parade: Starting at 10:00 AM on Saturday, the parade will feature 200 of Australia’s fnest rigs cruising through Johnston and Centre Streets before parking in the CBD for public viewing.

• Live Demonstrations: Attendees can engage with the latest in truck technology and hear from industry experts during interactive sessions.

• Family-Friendly

Activities: The event promises fun for the whole family, including a dedicated kids’ zone with amusement rides, face painting, and Old MacDonald’s Travelling Farms. Food vendors and live music will add to the festive environment.

• Trophy Presentations: The day culminates with the awarding of various accolades, including the prestigious “Rig of the Show,” judged on creativity, craftsmanship, and overall presentation.

Registration and Participation

Truck registrations open on July 1, with a cap of 550 entries to ensure a smooth experience for all participants. The parade is limited to 200 trucks, and unsponsored feets are restricted to six trucks each. The registration fee remains at $30 per truck, covering competition entry and parking within the event precinct. Please note that on-day entries will not be accepted; all registrations must be completed online via the offcial website.

Community and Industry Support

The event’s success is bolstered by the generous support of numerous sponsors, including:

• Brown and Hurley: Trophy Sponsor

• Rocklea Truck Electrical: Rig of the Show Prize Sponsor

• Country Trucker Caps: Show Truck

Think Twice About Asbestos

Champions Sponsor

• Wales Heavy Vehicle Repairs: Judged Elite Sponsor

• Ampol: Elite Fleet Sponsor

• Masterart Designs: Elite Paint Series Sponsor

• Robuk Engineering: Robuk Randoms Sponsor

• Truckin’ Life: Industry Pride and Passion Sponsor

• Tyrepower: Fantastic Fifteen Sponsor

• Jade Finance: Exceptional Fleet Display Sponsor

• PJ’s Custom: Nostalgic Categories

Sponsor

Richmond Valley Council and the Casino Truck Show Organising Committee extend heartfelt thanks to all sponsors and exhibitors for their continued support, which plays a crucial role in the event’s ongoing success.

Looking Ahead

As the 100-day countdown continues, preparations are in full swing to deliver an unforgettable experience that celebrates the trucking industry and brings the community together. Whether you’re an industry professional, a truck enthusiast, or a family looking for a fun day out, the 2025 North Coast Petroleum Casino Truck Show promises something for everyone. For more information and updates, visit the offcial Casino Truck Show website.

It’s easy to forget that asbestos is still present in millions of Australian properties, but it’s a fact, that if a house was built or renovated before 1990, there’s a good chance it has asbestos and it lurks in more places than you’d think. It’s often found in wet areas including bathrooms, laundries and kitchens and is common in cement sheeting used for walls, ceilings and roofs and in thousands of other building products including vinyl fooring, adhesives, paints, textured coatings and insulation. Asbestos can be easily disturbed when doing renovations, home improvements or regular maintenance. Sadly, every year in Australia, an estimated 4,000

people die from asbestosrelated diseases because of past exposure to asbestos.

To keep yourself and your family safe around asbestos, take these simple steps:

1. Get in the know – plan ahead before starting any renovations and fnd out where asbestos is likely to be in your home.

2. Take it slow – to avoid damaging or disturbing asbestos materials.

3. Get a pro - know your limits. Contact a licensed asbestos professional for advice on where it’s located, and on how to manage or remove it.

As part of a regional program aimed at reducing the unsafe removal of asbestos by home renovators,

Northern Rivers residents may be eligible for a subsidised household asbestos testing kit. The kit includes instructions on how to take samples safely and send to a certifed testing laboratory. The results are then emailed back to residents. If asbestos is identifed and requires removal, residents are urged to use a licensed asbestos removal contractor www. safework.nsw.gov.au/ hazards-a-z/asbestos to remove and dispose of it safely.

For further advice on household testing kits, contact your council or visit www.newaste.org. au/asbestos

For information on all aspects of asbestos safety, visit www. asbestos.nsw.gov.au

ROBERT HEYWARD

What are the chances?by

Nigel Dawe

“SOMETIMES,” once said Bryce Courtney, “the slightest things change the directions of our lives, the merest breath of a circumstance, a random moment that connects like a meteorite striking the earth. Lives have swivelled and changed direction on the strength of a chance remark.” And I couldn’t agree more, while we often say “I worked hard and did my best”, we could just as equally say, “So much of what I’ve done, happened because of the most unexpected developments.”

From the paths we fnd ourselves on, to the people who accompany us along the way, to us even being here, are all determined by factors and forces so far beyond our fathoming, that it could be fair to state – life is the result of pure chance. According to science we each have a 1 in 400 trillion chance of being born (as we are, to the parents we have, with the IQ we do – to name just a few of the factors that directly infuence us being here at all).

In comparison, according to statisticians, we each apparently have a 1 in 880,000 chance of dating a supermodel, not to mention a 1 in 12,000 chance of fnding a pearl in an oyster.

The odds (luckily) of dying in a plane crash are 1 in 11,000,000 (though you have a 40% higher chance of not dying should you sit near the plane’s tail). Thus, the way life plays out for any one of us can be understood broadly, thanks to the aid of probability. The most likely chance of something in particular happening to us (that I could fnd) was the 1 in 119 chance we each have

of one day falling to our death.

Ironically, the origin of the word ‘chance’ stems from an Old French word ‘cheance’, meaning “accident or luck”, which in turn came from the Latin word ‘cadere’, meaning “to fall, to happen, to die, or occur.” And this touches on the very essence of what chance both seemingly is, and what it represents; it comes in such a windfall fashion, aiding us one moment, and then hindering us the next. But as the Nobel Prize-winning Jaroslav Seifert once confessed, “For me, there is nothing more beautiful in this world than chance.”

Chance often makes possible the unimaginable, it creates conditions for the occurrence of unprecedented innovation and beauty. It is the unpredictability, and not the predictability of life that often provides us with the purest reasons for being. The infuences of chance can help offset the trepidation that we might feel in the face of risks we sometimes have to take to achieve our heart’s desire. Or like Neil Simon once said, “If no one ever took risks, Michaelangelo would have painted the Sistine foor.”

Looking up instead of down is one sure way of taking, if not making the absolute most of our chances when they present, which aligns nicely with what a wise clock-watching Rudyard Kipling once suggested, “A chance may open suddenly in front of one at a minute’s notice…

One never knows one’s luck, but one ought always to be ready for it.”

New E-Bike Safety Course Aims to Tackle Rising Risk Among Young Riders

Australia is confronting a growing public safety issue — the rapid rise of e-bike use among young people, often with little to no training or understanding of the rules of the road. As governments struggle to keep pace with the boom in batterypowered transport, a new education initiative is offering what many believe is the frst real solution for concerned parents and schools.

E-Bike Safety

Australia, a new organisation formed by road safety experts and educators, has launched the nation’s frst dedicated online safety course for young e-bike riders. The program is tailored for students, their parents, and educational institutions, addressing a major gap in regulation and public awareness.

A Real Solution for Parents and Schools

“This is the frst real and signifcant tool parents and schools

can use to get ahead of the problem,” said the team at E-Bike Safety Australia. “While we wait for government legislation to catch up, young riders are out there, many on highspeed e-bikes, without the training they need to stay safe.”

The course is the frst of its kind in Australia — a structured, accessible, and age-appropriate safety program designed to address the specifc challenges associated with the surge in e-bike use among teens and pre-teens.

What the Course Covers

Developed by experienced educators and road safety professionals, the course includes fve key focus areas:

• Safe Riding Techniques – How to ride confdently and safely in shared spaces.

• Legal and Road Rules – Understanding where and how e-bikes can be used legally.

• Risk Awareness and Decision-Making – How

to avoid accidents and ride responsibly.

• Lithium-Ion Battery Safety – Best practices for charging and storing batteries.

• E-Bike Maintenance and Rider Responsibility – Keeping bikes safe and roadworthy.

Affordable, Accessible, and Effective Priced at $159 per student, the course provides 21 days of access to interactive, self-paced lessons and quizzes. The platform features engaging video content tailored to young riders, making it easy for students to complete the course at home or in the classroom.

With injuries from e-bike incidents rising, and confusion around speed limits, helmet laws, and where e-bikes are legally allowed to operate, schools and parents have been left with few clear options — until now.

“We’re not just part of the conversation, we’re part of the solution,” the organisation says.

“We’re not waiting for a

tragedy to take action.”

Filling the Safety Gap

The course has already begun gaining attention from schools looking to implement safety programs for their students, particularly in urban and suburban areas where e-bike use has surged. Many parents are also turning to the course for peace of mind, knowing their children are better equipped to navigate busy roads and bike paths safely.

E-Bike Safety Australia was established in response to a sharp increase in injuries, the growing popularity of high-speed e-bikes, and a lack of cohesive safety education for this new class of rider.

“We believe education is the best form of prevention,” the team adds. “This course is about empowering the next generation of riders to be safe, smart, and street-ready.”

For more information or to register for the course, visit www. ebikesafetyaustralia.com. au.

ROBERT HEYWARD

offcial boating season is over doesn’t mean the danger disappears,”

As the offcial boating season draws to a close following ANZAC Day, Marine Rescue NSW is urging all waterway users to stay vigilant, reminding the public that boating emergencies don’t follow calendars.

Risk Remains YearRound

Marine Rescue NSW

Commissioner Alex Barrell has issued a timely reminder that while the peak season may end, risks on the water are ever-present.

“Just because the

Commissioner Barrell said. “Conditions on the water can change rapidly, and boaters must always be prepared.”

The organisation is emphasising that even during the quieter months, unpredictable weather and environmental conditions continue to pose lifethreatening risks.

3,000+ Missions This Season

Marine Rescue NSW has had a busy year once again. Since the start of the boating season on 1

October 2024, volunteers have responded to more than 3,000 search and rescue missions across New South Wales. This is consistent with last year’s record-setting season, which saw 3,251 callouts — the most in the organisation’s history.

Many of these missions were launched over holiday periods, such as Easter, where increased activity on the water often leads to more incidents.

“Log On” and Plan Ahead

Boaters are strongly encouraged to Log On

with Marine Rescue NSW before heading out — a simple but crucial safety step that can save lives. Logging on can be done using the free Marine Rescue NSW app or by radioing on VHF Channel 16.

“If you Log On and don’t return as planned, we’ll initiate a search. It could be the difference between life and death,”

Commissioner Barrell said.

He also stressed the importance of planning each trip carefully, especially over long weekends when grounding incidents tend

Boating Season Ends, But Dangers Remain.

Marine Rescue NSW Issues Safety Warning

to spike.

“Be aware of tides, your environment, and forecasted conditions.

A little planning goes a long way.”

Safety Gear Still Essential

In his fnal message before the off-season,

Commissioner Barrell reminded all boaters and paddlers to:

• Always wear a lifejacket

• Ensure safety equipment is up-to-date and onboard

• Stay aware of changing conditions

• Inform someone of your intended return time

“A lifejacket can only save you if you’re wearing it,” he reiterated.

Volunteers Ready to Respond

With a force of over 3,500 trained

volunteers and 46 strategically located units, Marine Rescue NSW remains prepared to respond swiftly and professionally to any emergency.

“Whether it’s a holiday or just another weekday, our volunteers are ready to help anyone in need,” Barrell added.

Marine Rescue NSW is a not-for-proft, volunteer-based organisation that plays a critical role in water safety and community protection across New South Wales. Their efforts continue beyond the boating season — because safety on the water is a year-round commitment.

For more information or to download the app, visit: www. marinerescuensw.com.au

ROBERT HEYWARD

Ultimate Guide to Travelling Hungary

Hungary is one of Central Europe’s most rewarding travel destinations, offering a rich blend of history, architecture, natural beauty, and vibrant culture—all at a great value. From the grand boulevards of Budapest to the thermal lakes, castles, and wine regions of the countryside, Hungary is an ideal destination for both city explorers and nature lovers.

TOP PLACES TO VISIT IN HUNGARY

Budapest

Hungary’s capital is often called the “Paris of the East” and for good reason. Divided by the Danube River, Buda and Pest each offer distinct experiences.

• Explore the Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and Matthias Church on the hilly Buda side.

• On the Pest side, visit Heroes’ Square, Andrássy Avenue, and the Hungarian Parliament Building— one of Europe’s most stunning.

• Relax in famous

Luxury Hotels

thermal baths like Széchenyi, Gellért, or Rudas.

Lake Balaton

Often referred to as the “Hungarian Sea,” Lake Balaton is the largest freshwater lake in Central Europe. It’s a popular summer destination, ideal for swimming, sailing, and lakeside lounging. Towns like Siófok, Balatonfüred, and Tihany offer resorts, spas, and historical charm.

Eger

This baroque town in northern Hungary is known for its castle, thermal baths, and Bull’s Blood red wine. Eger is a great stop for those interested in history and Hungarian viticulture.

Debrecen

Hungary’s second-largest city and cultural capital of the east, Debrecen is rich in history, with beautiful squares, the Great Reformed Church, and lively festivals. It’s also a gateway to Hortobágy National Park.

Pécs

A cultural hub in southern Hungary, Pécs boasts Roman ruins,

early Christian burial sites, Ottoman mosques, and a thriving arts scene. Don’t miss the Zsolnay Cultural Quarter and Pécs Cathedral.

Szeged

Known for its relaxed vibe, art nouveau architecture, and spicy paprika-based cuisine, Szeged is a university town with a charming riverside promenade and lively festivals in summer.

BUDGET TIPS AND BEST DEALS

Use Budapest’s Public Transport

A single ticket costs about ¤1.20, or get a Budapest TravelCard for unlimited travel. The city’s metro, tram, and bus networks are reliable and affordable.

Free walking tours

Several companies offer free (tip-based) tours of Budapest in multiple languages—great for learning local history and orientation.

Dine where locals eat Avoid restaurants in tourist-heavy areas. Try étkezde (simple lunch canteens) or market halls like the Great Market

Accommodation: Luxury & Budget Options

• Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace, Budapest – A stunning art nouveau palace overlooking the Chain Bridge.

• Aria Hotel, Budapest – Music-themed, centrally located, with a rooftop bar and luxury amenities.

• Ensana Thermal Margitsziget, Budapest – Spa resort on Margaret Island with extensive wellness facilities.

Mid-Range Choices

• Bo18 Hotel Superior, Budapest – Comfortable rooms near the city centre with great service.

Hall for hearty, authentic meals at half the price.

Thermal baths: go early or late

Many baths offer cheaper entry in the early morning or evening hours.

Student and senior discounts

EU citizens under 26 or over 65 may receive free or discounted train and museum access with valid ID.

Travel by train or long-distance bus Hungary’s national train service (MÁV) and bus services like FlixBus offer low-cost travel between cities and regions.

TRAVEL TIPS

• Language: Hungarian is the offcial language. English is widely spoken in Budapest and tourist areas but may be limited in rural regions.

• Etiquette: Tipping is customary—around 10% in restaurants.

• Tap water is safe to drink.

• Safety: Hungary is a very safe country for travellers. Use common sense as you would anywhere.

• Hotel Korona, Eger – Stylish boutique hotel in the heart of wine country.

• Hotel Palatinus, Pécs – A historic art nouveau property with old-world charm.

Budget Options

• Maverick City Lodge, Budapest – Trendy, centrally located hostel with dorms and private rooms.

• Aventura Boutique Hostel, Budapest – Themed rooms and a warm atmosphere near Nyugati station.

• Youth hostels and guesthouses are widespread and offer excellent value in smaller cities and rural areas.

• Best time to visit: Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer is popular but can be hot, while winter offers Christmas markets and thermal baths.

CONCLUSION

Hungary is one of Europe’s most underrated gems. With a deep cultural heritage, stunning architecture, world-famous thermal

baths, and great food, it offers rich experiences at a fraction of the cost of Western Europe. Whether you’re soaking in a bathhouse, sipping wine in Eger, or cruising the Danube at sunset, Hungary is a destination that captivates with both warmth and depth. Smart planning and a sense of adventure can make your Hungarian journey not only unforgettable but also remarkably affordable.

Currency & Budget Considerations

• Currency: Hungarian Forint (HUF) Euros are not accepted, so exchange currency or withdraw from ATMs.

• Daily Budget Estimates:

° Budget: ¤40–60

° Mid-range: ¤70–120

° Luxury: ¤150+

• Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry cash for smaller shops or rural areas.

JEFF GIBBS

ENTERTAINMENT

8 PAGE LIFT OUT

The Accountant 2 A Calculated Blend of Action, Humour, and Brotherhood

In 2016, The Accountant introduced audiences to Christian Wolff, a socially awkward mathematical savant with a penchant for lethal effciency. Nearly a decade later, director Gavin O’Connor reunites

with Ben Affeck and Jon Bernthal to deliver The Accountant 2, a sequel that amplifes the original’s strengths while embracing a more character-driven narrative. Plot Overview The sequel picks up years after the events of the frst flm. Christian Wolff (Ben Affeck) has retreated into a quieter life, but the

ALL FILMS

A Minecraft Movie (PG)

Daily: 10:10AM, 12:20PM, 2:30PM, 4:50PM, 7:20PM

Clown in a Cornfield (MA15+) Thurs: 7:30PM –Fright Night

Dog Man (G) Daily: 10:00AM, 2:45PM

Drop (MA15+)

Thurs, Fri: 12:45PM. Sat: 3:00PM. Sun, Mon, Tues, Wed: 12:40PM

The 39 Steps (PG) Sat: 1:00PM

The Accountant 2 (MA15+)

Thurs, Fri: 10:00AM, 4:50PM. Sat: 10:15AM, 7:00PM. Sun, Mon, Tues, Wed: 10:00AM, 7:00PM

The Wedding Banquet (M) Fri: 7:30PM – Movie Club Preview

Thunderbolts* (PG) NFT

Thurs, Fri, Sat: 12:10PM, 4:45PM, 7:00PM. Sun, Mon, Tues, Wed: 12:10PM, 2:40PM, 4:45PM, 7:20PM

Warfare (MA15+) Thurs, Fri: 2:50PM. Sat: 5:00PM. Sun, Mon, Tues, Wed: 5:15PM

assassination of his former associate, Raymond King (J.K. Simmons), pulls him back into a world of intrigue. King’s cryptic message—”Find the accountant”—leads Treasury Agent Marybeth Medina (Cynthia Addai-Robinson) to seek Wolff’s expertise in

unravelling a complex human traffcking operation. To navigate this perilous mission, Wolff enlists the help of his estranged brother, Braxton (Jon Bernthal), a mercenary with a volatile temperament. Together, they delve into a conspiracy that challenges their skills and rekindles their fractured bond. Performances and Character Dynamics Affeck reprises his role with a nuanced portrayal of Wolff, capturing the character’s meticulous nature and emotional restraint. His performance balances the character’s analytical brilliance with subtle moments of vulnerability, offering a deeper insight into Wolff’s psyche. Bernthal’s Braxton serves as a dynamic counterpoint— brash, impulsive, and emotionally expressive. Their on-screen chemistry is palpable, providing both tension and levity as the brothers navigate their shared past and present challenges.

The flm also introduces Anaïs (Daniella Pineda), a mysterious fgure whose motives add layers to the unfolding narrative. Pineda delivers a compelling performance, infusing Anaïs with intrigue and complexity.

Addai-Robinson’s Medina continues to be a grounding presence, her character’s evolution refecting the moral ambiguities of law enforcement in a world rife with corruption. Direction and Cinematography O’Connor’s direction maintains a steady pace,

interweaving intense action sequences with character-driven moments.

The flm’s visual aesthetic is sleek and polished, with cinematographer Seamus McGarvey capturing both the starkness of clandestine operations and the warmth of familial interactions. Notably, the action scenes are choreographed with precision, avoiding gratuitous violence in favour of purposeful combat that advances the plot and character development.

Themes and Tonal Shifts

The Accountant 2 delves into themes of redemption, familial bonds, and the moral complexities of justice. The narrative explores how individuals grapple with their past choices and seek connection amidst chaos. The flm’s tonal shifts—from high-octane action to introspective dialogue—are handled with care, ensuring a cohesive viewing experience.

One of the flm’s strengths lies in its ability to balance seriousness with moments of levity.

Scenes such as Wolff’s awkward participation in a line-dancing event or his interactions during a speed-dating session provide comedic relief without undermining the story’s gravity. These moments humanize the characters, making their struggles and triumphs more relatable.

Reception and Critical Analysis

Critics have offered a range of perspectives on

The Accountant 2. Some praise the flm’s character

development and the chemistry between Affeck and Bernthal, noting that the sequel surpasses its predecessor in emotional depth. Others point to the convoluted plot as a drawback, suggesting that the narrative’s complexity may hinder audience engagement.

Despite these critiques, the flm has garnered generally favourable reviews. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds an 83% approval rating based on 48 reviews, with an average score of 6.6/10. Metacritic reports a score of 61 out of 100, indicating “generally favourable reviews” from 14 critics.

Conclusion

The Accountant 2 successfully expands upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, offering a compelling blend of action, character exploration, and thematic depth. While the plot’s intricacies may challenge some viewers, the flm’s strong performances and thoughtful direction provide a rewarding cinematic experience. For fans of the original and newcomers alike, The Accountant 2 delivers a calculated and engaging sequel that balances thrills with heartfelt storytelling.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Runtime: 132 minutes

Cast: Ben Affeck, Jon Bernthal, Cynthia Addai-Robinson, Daniella Pineda, J.K. Simmons Now on at Palace Cinemas

JEFF GIBBS

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

TIME FOR TRIVIA

1 The national anthems of New Zealand are God Save the Queen and which other anthem?

(a) The Banner of Freedom (b) Forged from the Love of Liberty (c) God Defend New Zealand (d) God Bless Our Homeland

2 Which two people served as prime minister of Australia during 1968?

(a) William McMahon, Gough Whitlam

(b) Harold Holt, John McEwen

(c) John Gorton, William McMahon

(d) John McEwen, John Gorton

4 Which countries contested the 2024 Rugby World Cup final?

(a) Netherlands and Chile (b) Chile and Germany

(c) Brazil and Australia (d) England and Argentina

6 What are the two main components of the alloy, electrum?

(a) Gold and silver (b) Lithium and potassium (c) Plutonium and aluminium (d) Chromium and nickel

7 Iceland is closest in size to which of the following countries? (a) Australia (b) Mozambique (c) Algeria (d) South Korea

8 In relation to the Australian organisation known as APRA, what does the P stand for? (a) Performing (b) Playing (c) Payments (d) Publishing

ALFAKODO

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 ABIOTIC

(a) Without life

(b) Strongly opposed

(c) Grovelling

2 EXCOGITATE

(a) To deprive of church privileges

(b) To irritate greatly

(c) To discover by thinking

3 FULMINANT

(a) A thunderbolt

(b) A gull-like bird

(c) A hole emitting gases in a volcano

4 IATRIC

(a) Violet-coloured

(b) Satirical in verse

(c) Relating to medicine

5 MISCEGENATION

(a) Ill luck

(b) Application to wrong purpose

(c) Mixing of race

MAIN ARM GENERAL STORE

BEST ON THE BOX

SUNDAY BERGERAC

ABC TV, 8.30pm

This reboot of the classic 1980s detective series set on the Channel Island of Jersey takes a darker approach than the original. Irish actor Damien Molony (Brassic, Derry Girls), pictured, takes on the title role of Jim Bergerac – a brilliant yet troubled detective who is on bereavement leave after his wife’s death. When a member of one of Jersey’s wealthiest families is murdered, the police want their best detective on the case, and turn to Bergerac. But is he up for the job? He wants to prove to daughter Kim (Chloé Sweetlove) and mother-in-law Charlie (Zoë Wanamaker) – and most importantly, himself – that he’s getting back on track, though the case will hit closer to home than he could have ever imagined.

FRIDAY, May 2

MONDAY SAM PANG TONIGHT

TEN, 8.40pm

They said it couldn’t be done – a tonight show, on network television, in this day and age? But Sam Pang (pictured) has proved the detractors wrong, staying on air for not only all eight scheduled episodes but earning a second season to air later this year. Pang’s fresh take on the classic format o ers a casual approach, with engaging yet relaxed interviews and absurd segments all peppered with the comedian’s signature wry asides. Plus, there’s regular input from a rotating roster of guest announcers who manage to both help and hinder proceedings. In tonight’s nale, Pang grills Have You Been Paying Attention? host Tom Gleisner ahead of Australia’s favourite quiz show returning next Monday.

THURSDAY SHERLOCK & DAUGHTER

SBS, 9.30pm

From Northern Irish writer Brendan Cold Courage), this new take on the frequently reimagined detective doesn’t veer too far o course. Legendary sleuth Sherlock Holmes (David Thewlis), ying solo after the disappearance of his friend Dr Watson, is ba ed by the arrival of a young Native American woman on his doorstep. Amelia Rojas (Blu Hunt, pictured with Thewlis) has travelled across the world after her mother’s murder, intent on meeting Holmes, who she believes is her father. Despite possessing many traits in common with Amelia, Holmes is no stranger to so-called long-lost relations appearing, and devises a method of determining whether she is who she says –by putting her to work on his next case.

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 Vera, Farewell Pet. (PG, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Bay Of Fires. (Malv, R) 3.00 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games. (R) 3.25 Grand Designs: The Streets. (PG, R) 4.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 WorldWatch. 8.00 DD India News Hour. 9.05 Travel Quest. (PG, R) 10.05 Matched. (PG, R) 11.00 Europe’s Highlands. (PGaw) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Who Do You Think You Are? (PGa, R) 3.00 Nula. 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 The World’s Most Beautiful Landscapes. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R) 2.00 House Of Wellness. (PG,

6.30 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games.

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

7.30 7.30: Australia Votes.

8.00 Gardening Australia. Hannah Moloney visits a dahlia farm.

9.00 Sherwood. (Mdlv) The police and Sparrows must work together.

10.00 Gruen Nation. (R) Hosted by Wil Anderson.

10.35 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (R)

11.05 Big Boys. (MA15+l, R)

11.30 ABC Late News.

11.50 Father Brown. (Mv, R)

12.35 Mayfair Witches. (Ml, R)

1.20 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 24 Hours That Changed The World.

8.30 The Giza Pyramid: Reaching For The Stars. (PG, R) A look at the pyramids of Giza.

9.30 Scotland’s Scenic Railways: East Fife Railway. (R)

10.30 SBS World News Late.

11.00 A Body That Works. (Ma)

12.05 Between Two Worlds. (Mals, R)

2.00 Agent Hamilton. (MA15+v, R)

3.40 Barkley Manor. (R)

4.30 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 2.45pm Fizzy And Suds. 3.00 Play School. 3.40 Mecha Builders. 3.55 Andy’s Safari Adventures. 4.25 Builder Brothers Dream Factory. 5.20 Kangaroo Beach. 5.50 Paddington. 6.45 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 Merlin. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Morning Programs. Noon France 24 English News. 12.30 Hypothetical. 1.25 Tan France: Beauty And The Bleach. 2.30 Over The Black Dot. 3.05 BBC News At Ten. 3.35 ABC World News Tonight. 4.00 PBS News. 5.00 Riveted: The History Of Jeans. 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. Midnight Pose. 2.50 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.

6.00 7News Local.

6.30 7News @ 6:30.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs.

8.30 House Of Wellness. (PG) Melissa Doyle, Shane Crawford and a team of industry experts, media personalities and wellness advocates share insights and experiences to highlight living well.

9.30 MOVIE: Couples Retreat. (2009, Ms, R) Four couples head to a tropical island resort only to discover they must attend mandatory therapy sessions. Jason Bateman, Kristen Bell, Malin Akerman.

12.00 The Black Donnellys. (Mdsv)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.

7TWO (62)

Shopping. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30

Practice. 8.00

Minute. 9.00 Jabba’s Movies. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 The Great Australian Doorstep. 2.30 Weekender. 3.00 Animal SOS Australia. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 9. Sydney Roosters v Dolphins. From Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane.

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

10.45 MOVIE: RoboCop. (2014, Mv, R) A critically wounded Detroit cop undergoes surgery to become a cyborg. Joel Kinnaman, Gary Oldman.

1.00 Young Sheldon. (PGadlsv, R) Sheldon has a breakthrough.

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)

Over. (1959, PG) 3.00 Antiques Roadshow. 3.30 MOVIE: Tender Mercies. (1983, PG) 5.30 The Travelling Auctioneers. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 West Coast Cops. 8.30 MOVIE:

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

6.30 The Project. The hosts and guest panellists take a look at the day’s news, events and hot topics.

7.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Ml, R) Graham Norton is joined on the couch by guests including Billy Crystal, Hugh Bonneville and Michael Kiwanuka. 9.40 The List. (Mln, R) Two best friends take on The List, a collection of travel experiences most people avoid.

10.40 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather.

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

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

9GO! (83) 6am The Kids Are Alright. Continued. (2021, PG, Spanish) 6.40 The Farewell. (2019, PG) 8.35 Dancing Ninja. (2010, PG) 10.25 Moving. (1993, M, Japanese) 12.40pm The Prophecy Of The Armadillo. (2018, M, Italian) 2.35 The Man Who Invented Christmas. (2017, PG) 4.30 A Great Friend. (2023, PG, French) 6.20 The Battle Of The River Plate. (1956, PG) 8.30 We Were Soldiers. (2002, MA15+) 11.05 Heathers. (1988, MA15+) 1am Tori And Lokita. (2022, M, French) 2.40 Late Programs. PEACH (52) 7MATE (64) SBS MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs.

6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 The Nanny. 9.00 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. 10.00 Bewitched. 10.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 11.00 Young Sheldon. Noon MOVIE: Godzilla: King Of The Monsters. (2019, M) 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: Priscilla Queen Of The Desert. (1994, M) 9.40 MOVIE: Death Becomes Her. (1992, M) 11.40 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Creek To Coast. 8.00 Mt Hutt Rescue. 9.00 Mountain Men. 10.00 Blokesworld. 10.30 Duck Dynasty. 11.00 Counting Cars. Noon American Resto. 12.30 Storage 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 Football. AFL. Round 8. St Kilda v Fremantle. 10.30 AFL PostGame. 11.15 Late Programs.

SATURDAY, May 3

7.00 Australia Votes. Chief elections analyst Antony Green identi es the trends that will decide the election. David Speers and Sarah Ferguson bring the sharpest and most reliable election night analysis. 12.00 Creative Types With Virginia Trioli: Tony Albert. (PG, R) Virginia Trioli meets Tony Albert, one of the most exciting visual artists of his generation, who takes everyday items that represent the most confronting aspects of colonisation to create work that is provocative and deeply moving. 12.30 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) Continuous music programming.

10.25

Programs.

Programs. 3.30pm

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Titanic In Colour. (R) Charts the history of the RMS Titanic

9.20 Stanley Tucci: Searching For Italy: Tuscany. (R) Stanley Tucci heads to Tuscany.

10.10 Great Coastal Railway Journeys: Helensburgh To Connel. (R) Hosted by Michael Portillo.

11.10 Homicide: Life On The Street. (Mav, R)

3.40 Barkley Manor. (PG, R)

4.35 Bamay. (R)

5.15 France 24 Feature.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

Programs. 1.50pm Spiraling: Crypto Special. 2.20 Beyond Oak Island. 3.15 BBC News At Ten. 3.45 ABC World News Tonight. 4.10 PBS News. 5.10 Over The Black Dot. 5.40 Mastermind Aust. 6.40 Impossible Engineering. 8.30 The Push: Scotland’s Murder On The Cli 11.15 The YouTube E ect. 1.05am MOVIE: Drive. (2011, MA15+) 2.55

10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Horse Racing. Hawkesbury Cup Day, Caul eld Members Day, Guineas Day and SA Derby Day. 4.00 7NEWS: Election Day. 5.00 7NEWS: Australia Decides – Election.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 7NEWS: Australia Decides –First Count. Hugh Whitfeld and Mark Riley take an up-to-the-minute look at the results of the federal election.

8.00 7NEWS: Australia Decides – The Result. Hugh Whitfeld and Mark Riley take an up-to-the-minute look at the results of the federal election.

11.00 MOVIE: Life. (2017, MA15+v, R) Scientists discover a dangerous life form. Ryan Reynolds, Jake Gyllenhaal.

1.05 The Black Donnellys. (Mdsv)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 It’s Academic. (R)

5.00 House Of Wellness. (PG, R)

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 Election 2025: Australia Decides – Vote Count.

8.00 Election 2025: Australia Decides – Election Night Live. An analysis of election results.

10.00 Election 2025: Australia Decides – Analysis.

11.00 MOVIE: Miss Sloane. (2016, Mls)

1.30 Destination WA. (PG, R) 2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Global Shop. (R)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Helping Hands. (PG, R)

6.00

ABC ENTERTAINS (23)

SBS MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 2.25pm ER. 3.10 Doctor Who. 3.55 Penn & Teller: Fool Us. 4.40 MythBusters. 5.30 Heartbreak High. 7.00 Hard Quiz. 7.30 QI.

7MATE (64)

3.55 Andy’s Safari Adventures. 4.20 Dino Dex. 4.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.10 PJ Masks. 5.50 Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Rocket Club. 7.30 Kids Baking C’ship. 8.10 Chopped Jnr. 8.55 Fresh O The Boat. 9.35 Speechless. 9.55 O cially Amazing. 10.25 Dragon Ball Super. 10.50 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 Allo! Allo! 9.45 Only Fools And Horses. 10.25 David Attenborough’s Planet Earth III. 11.35 Ancient Aliens. 12.35pm Lost Gold Of World War II. 1.30 Hunting Hitler. 2.25 Jeopardy! UK. 3.25 Young Sheldon. 3.55 MOVIE: Undercover Blues. (1993, PG) 5.40 MOVIE: The Croods: A New Age. (2020, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: The Hunger Games: Mockingjay –Part 1. (2014, M) 10.00 Late Programs.

PEACH (52)

8.00 Tom Gleeson: Joy. 9.20 Gavin & Stacey. 10.45 ER. 11.30 Rage. 12.30am Heartbreak High. 1.15 The Cleaner. 1.45 Breeders. 2.10 QI. 2.40 Black Mirror. (Final) 3.50 Doctor Who. 4.35 A Bite To Eat. 5.00 Dragon Ball Super. 5.35 Late Programs.

6am The Battle Of The River Plate. Continued. (1956, PG) 7.10 Princess Caraboo. (1994, PG) 9.00 The Kids Are Alright. (2021, PG, Spanish) 10.40 Boccaccio ’70. (1962, M, German) 2.25pm The Farewell. (2019, PG) 4.20 Dancing Ninja. (2010, PG) 6.10 The World’s Fastest Indian. (2005, PG) 8.30 Rogue Agent. (2022, M) 10.40 Bang Gang (A Modern Love Story) (2015, MA15+, French) 12.30am Late Programs.

SKY NEWS (53) NITV (34) SBS FOOD (33) 6am Morning

6am Morning Programs. 1pm My Market Kitchen. 1.30 Key Ingredient. 2.00 Freshly Picked. 2.30 Food Markets. 4.35 Loving Gluten Free. 5.05 Giada At Home. 5.30 Dishing It Up. 6.00 Marion Grasby’s Flavours. 6.30 Remarkable Places To Eat. 7.30 Culinary Cruise. 8.30 Far Eastern Odyssey. 9.40 Bourdain: Parts Unknown. 10.30 Dolce Napoli. 11.00 Late Programs.

SUNDAY, May 4

ABC TV (2)

6.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Insiders. 10.30 O siders. 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Songs Of Praise. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 2.30 Monty Don’s Paradise Garden. (Final, R) 3.35 Bill Bailey’s Wild West Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Restoration Australia. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.30 Compass: Unsettled. (PG)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 The Piano. (Premiere, PG) Hosted by Amanda Keller.

8.30 Bergerac. (Premiere, Mlv) When a member of one of Jersey’s wealthiest families is murdered, the police turn to ex-cop, Jim Bergerac.

9.20 The Split: Barcelona. (Ml, R) Hannah and her family are reunited.

10.20 MOVIE: My Brother Jack –Part 2. (2001, Mnsv, R) Matt Day.

11.55 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (R)

12.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

4.00 Outback Ringer. (PG, R)

4.30 Insiders. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Morning Programs. 1pm Blokesworld. 1.30 Australia ReDiscovered. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00 Motor Racing. Night Thunder. Silver Cup. H’lights. 4.00 Counting Cars. 4.30 Motor Racing. SpeedSeries. 7.30 Aussie Salvage Squad. 8.30 Mega Mechanics. 9.30 Air Crash Inv: Accident Files. 10.30 When Big Things Go Wrong. 11.30 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 1.15pm Guardians Of The Wild. 2.05 Nula. 2.35 Stompem Ground: King Of Hearts. 3.00 Lee Fields, Faithful Man. 4.30 Tradition On A Plate. 5.00 Shepherdess. 5.30 The Barber. 6.00 The Last Land: Gespe’gewa’gi. 6.40 The Other Side. 7.30 Alone Australia. 8.30 MOVIE: Constantine. (2005, MA15+) 10.35 Bob Marley: Uprising Live. 12.40am Late Programs.

SBS (3)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Great Irish Interiors. 10.00 FIFA Classics. 11.30 Lap Of Luxury: Escapes Down Under. 12.00 WorldWatch. 12.30 PBS Washington. 1.00 Motorcycle Racing. Australian Superbike. 4.00 Grace Brown: Time For The Rest Of Life. 4.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Liege-Bastogne-Liege. Women’s. 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Liege-BastogneLiege. Men’s. 5.30 How To Lose A War. (PGav)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Macchu Picchu: City Of Stone. Looks at Macchu Pichu.

8.30 Invasion: The Normans. (Mav, R) Charts how an exiled Irish king persuaded an Anglo-Norman lord to help him recover his kingdom.

10.30 The Temple Of Hatshepsut. (R) A look at Hatshepsut’s temple.

11.30 Hell On Earth: WWII: A Dream Of Great Success. (Mav, R)

4.25 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera News.

VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 12.20pm Bananas In Pyjamas. 1.40 Ben And Holly. 2.05 Paddington. 2.45 Fizzy And Suds. 3.00 Play School. 3.45 Tiddler. 4.20 Dino Dex. 4.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.10 Thomas. 5.50 Paddington. 7.05 Rocket Club. 7.35 Moominvalley. 8.00 Horrible Histories. 8.30 Fresh O The Boat. 9.10 Abbott Elementary. 9.55 Speechless. 10.15 Merlin. 11.00 Late Programs.

ABC ENTERTAINS (23)

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The 1% Club. (PGls) 8.05 7NEWS Spotlight.

9.05 24 Hours In Police Custody: The Murder Of Jane Doe. (Premiere, Mav) A woman calls police in distress.

10.05 Menendez & Menudo: Boys Betrayed. (MA15+av)

11.15 Autopsy USA. (Ma)

12.15 Shades Of Blue. (MA15+adsv, R)

1.15 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

7TWO (62)

9LIFE (84)

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Travel Guides. (PGln)

8.10 60 Minutes. Current a airs program.

9.10 The Killer Interview With Piers Morgan. (Premiere, Mlv) Piers Morgan interviews notorious killers.

10.10 9News Late.

10.40 See No Evil. (Ma)

11.40 The First 48. (MA15+av)

12.30 Oz O Road TV. (PGl, R)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 Drive TV: Drive Car Of The Year. (R)

Today Early News.

9GEM (82)

6am First Edition: Australia Decides. 9.00 AM Agenda: Australia Decides. 11.00 Newsday: Australia Decides. 2pm Afternoon Agenda: Australia Decides. 5.00 Australia Decides: Election Night. Midnight Newsnight: Australia Decides.

BOLD (51)

6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 Allo! Allo! 9.30 Only Fools And Horses. 10.10 David Attenborough’s Planet Earth III. 11.20 Ancient Aliens. 12.20pm Lost Gold Of World War II. 1.20 Motor Racing. FIA Formula E World C’ship. H’lights. 2.25 Jeopardy! UK. 3.25 Young Sheldon. 3.55 MOVIE: Over The Hedge. (2006) 5.35 MOVIE: Red Dog. (2011, PG) 7.30

9GO! (83) 6am Dancing Ninja. Continued. (2010, PG) 7.25 The World’s Fastest Indian. (2005, PG) 9.45 The Man Who Invented Christmas. (2017, PG) 11.40 Emma. (2017, M, Italian) 1.50pm A Great Friend. (2023, PG, French) 3.40 The Battle Of The River Plate. (1956, PG) 5.50 The Movie Show. 6.20 The Personal History Of David Copper eld. (2019, PG) 8.30 The New Boy. (2023, M) 10.40 Late Programs. PEACH (52) 7MATE (64) SBS MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 1.55pm ER. 2.40 Doctor Who. 3.25 Penn & Teller: Fool Us. 4.05 Would I Lie To You? 4.40 MythBusters. 5.30 Heartbreak High. 7.00 Hard Quiz. 7.30 QI. 8.00 Lucy Worsley Investigates. 9.00 Planet America: Weekend Edition. 9.50 O siders. 10.20 The Weekly. 10.50 ER. 11.35 Rage. 12.35am Heartbreak High. 1.20 Late Programs.

Supremacy. (2004, M) 10.40 Late Programs.

TEN (5) NBN (8, 80)

PUZZLES AND ASTROLOGY

TARGET TIME

S I T

I L O

N

I V Today’s target: 10 words average 13 words good 17+ 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, Neptune and Venus are visiting your sign, and dynamic Mars (your patron planet) is in Leo. So your fiery, passionate, proactive, boisterous, bossy Aries side will be on full display. Do your best to get must-do, routine tasks out of the way early in the week. Then you can enjoy the activities that really make your heart sing. Be inspired by birthday great, actress Audrey Hepburn: “I believe, every day, you should have at least one exquisite moment.”

TAURUS (Apr 20 – May 20)

It’s time for Bulls to bewitch and bewilder! With the Sun, New Moon and Uranus lighting up your sign, your positive and negative Taurean traits are boosted this week. So expect to be more sensual, stable, patient and dependable … and more possessive, pedantic, slow-moving and stubborn! Your motto for the moment is from iconic Taurus actress (and birthday great) Audrey Hepburn: “The most important thing is to enjoy your life – to be happy.”

GEMINI (May 21 – June 20)

Jolly Jupiter (the planet of prosperity and aspirations) is transiting through your sign until June 9-10. This lucky placement only happens every 12 years, so make the most of it while it’s still around! You’ll find confidence, authenticity and robust self-esteem will take you far. Be inspired by Hollywood movie star, fashion icon and humanitarian Audrey Hepburn (who was born on May 4, 1929): “Always be a first-rate version of yourself.”

CANCER (June 21 – July 22)

The New Moon activates your hopes-and-wishes zone, which boosts confidence as you pursue ambitious and adventurous aspirations for the future. Avoid being too safe and sensible! Let go of a perceived failure that has been holding you back. If you learn from your mistakes, then you can finally move forward. Family and friends will help you along the way. Your motto is from birthday great, Audrey Hepburn: “The best thing to hold onto in life is each other.”

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)

Have you been hibernating in your Lion’s den?

With the New Moon and Uranus activating your career zone, do your best to initiate positive, innovative changes at work. It’s time to be bold, rather than brooding, and proactive, rather than reactive. And spend some quality time in nature. If you’re lucky enough to have one, then get out and potter in the garden. As birthday great Audrey Hepburn observed: “To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.”

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Prosperity planet Jupiter is jumping through your career zone until June 9 -10, which only happens every 12 years. So don’t procrastinate and vacillate, Virgo, a lucky opportunity could come out of the blue. You need to make hay while the sun shines and strike while the iron is hot! Be inspired by birthday great, actress Audrey Hepburn (who was born on May 4, 1929): “Opportunities don’t often come along. When they do, you have to grab them.”

LIBRA (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Libra is the zodiac sign that rules appearance, aesthetics, fashion, cosmetics and personal pampering. And this week’s stars urge you to look for the inner beauty in yourself – and other people. So here are some beauty tips from Hollywood movie star (and birthday great) Audrey Hepburn: “For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak words of kindness. And for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone.”

SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

There’s a New Moon in your relationship zone, and love planet Venus links up with compassionate Neptune, so the focus is on partnerships (romantic and platonic). Smart Scorpios will go out of their way to avoid power struggles and controlling behaviour, as they argue a lot less and empathise a lot more. As Hollywood movie star, humanitarian and birthday great Audrey Hepburn observed: “Nothing is more important than empathy for another human being.”

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Impatient, speedy Sagittarians can be too quick to ditch family members, dismiss close friends, and disregard work colleagues who stuff up or disappoint. But is that always the best thing to do?

Perhaps most people deserve a second chance?

As Hollywood star, humanitarian and birthday great Audrey Hepburn wisely said: “People have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed and redeemed. Never throw out anyone.” Friday favours creative projects.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

It’s time to enjoy the simple things in life! On Monday you’ll be at your Capricorn best as the New Moon activates your leisure-and-pleasure zone, so it’s a good day to socialise with friends. In the words of birthday great, actress Audrey Hepburn: “Enjoy the day to the hilt. The day as it comes. People as they come.” Then Venus joins Mercury and Neptune in your home zone midweek, when you may have to lend a helping hand to a stressed family member.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

The New Moon and Uranus (your power planet) activate your family zone, so home is where the heart is this week. Even though you may be faced with an unpredictable domestic problem, be thankful for the relatives who nurture and support you. As birthday great Audrey Hepburn said: “I may not always be offered work, but I’ll always have my family.” With Mercury and Venus visiting your local travel zone, try to escape on a much-needed weekend getaway.

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20) Uranus and the New Moon increase your tendency to blurt things out and spread secrets. So think before you speak! When it comes to a recalcitrant relative or an annoying neighbour, be more diplomatic as you build bridges and let bygones be bygones. And don’t let negative selftalk hold you back. Be inspired by actress and humanitarian Audrey Hepburn (who was born on May 4, 1929): “Nothing is impossible. The word itself says ‘I’m possible’!”

ASTROLOGY with Joanne Madeline Moore

Tom Harrington Brings Indie-Folk Charm to Yamba’s Jacko’s Bar

On Thursday, May 1, 2025, Yamba’s Jacko’s Bar will host indie-folk artist Tom Harrington for an evening of heartfelt music and storytelling. Doors open at 6:00 PM, with the performance commencing at 6:30 PM.

Harrington, known for his emotive lyrics and innovative use of live vocal looping, has cultivated a dedicated following across Australia. His music, streamed in over 110 countries monthly, resonates with audiences through its raw authenticity and engaging performances.

The Yamba show is part of Harrington’s tour celebrating his latest release, “Seen The Sun.” Having supported notable Australian artists like Ziggy Alberts and Kim Churchill, Harrington’s live performances are characterized by their emotional depth and audience participation.

Raised on a cropping farm in rural Victoria, Harrington’s music is infused with country infuences, refecting his connection to the land and community. His journey from rural beginnings to coastal living informs his songwriting, offering listeners a blend of introspection and relatability.

Jacko’s Bar, located at 2/4 Yamba Street, provides an intimate setting for the performance, with a full bar service and menu available. Attendees can expect an evening of soulful music in a relaxed atmosphere.

Tickets for the event are available through Humanitix, a platform that donates 100% of profts from booking fees to charity.

For fans of indie-folk music and live performances, Tom Harrington’s upcoming show in Yamba promises an engaging and memorable experience.

‘Seussical the Musical’ Enchants Ballina Audiences

The whimsical world of Dr. Seuss comes alive in Ballina as Richmond Christian College presents Seussical the Musical from May 9 to May 17, 2025

This vibrant production promises to captivate audiences with its imaginative storytelling, memorable characters, and toe-tapping tunes

Event Details:

• **Dates:**Friday, May 9 – Saturday, May 17, 2025

• **Venue:**Richmond Christian College, 7 Gallans Road, Ballina NSW

• **Tickets:**$15.00 – $50.00

• **Booking:**https://www.trybooking.com

Seussical the Musical weaves together several of Dr. Seuss’s beloved tales, primarily focusing on Horton

the Elephant’s adventures as he discovers a speck of dust containing the Whos Themes of friendship, loyalty, and the power of imagination are explored as Horton faces challenges to protect the Whos and an abandoned egg left in his care This production is suitable for audiences of all ages, offering a delightful experience for families and fans of musical theatre With its colourful set designs, engaging performances, and catchy songs, attendees are in for a treat that celebrates the magic of Dr. Seuss’s stories Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the enchanting world of Seussical the Musical in Ballina Secure your tickets early to ensure a seat at this popular event

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit Live Northern Rivers.

Community Unites for Love Lennox 100 Club Fundraiser

On Sunday, May 25, 2025, the Lennox Head community will come together for the Love Lennox 100 Club Fundraiser at Club Lennox Sports, located at 57 Daintree Drive, Lennox Head NSW 2478. The event kicks off at 3:30 PM and promises an evening flled with entertainment, delicious food, and the spirit of giving.

This special fundraiser aims to support the beloved Love Lennox Festival, ensuring its continued success and vibrancy. With only 100 tickets available at $100 each, attendees have the chance to win a share of $5,000 in prizes through random draws held throughout the evening.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, local favourites The Mumblers will provide live music starting at 4:00 PM. Guests can also indulge in delectable platters while enjoying the company of fellow community members.

The Love Lennox 100 Club Fundraiser is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of community spirit and the collective effort to keep the magic of the Love Lennox Festival alive. As the organizers emphasize, “Love Lennox is all about community!”

For more information and to secure your ticket, visit the offcial event page: Love Lennox 100 Club Fundraiser.

Note: The information provided is based on available sources and may be subject to change. Attendees are encouraged to confrm event details through offcial channels

A renewed debate has emerged over the future of negative gearing and capital gains tax (CGT) concessions in Australia, with housing affordability and tax equity at the forefront of discussions. Advocates for reform argue that these tax benefts disproportionately favour property investors, exacerbating housing unaffordability and contributing to wealth inequality.

Negative gearing allows investors to

deduct property-related expenses, including mortgage interest, from their taxable income, effectively reducing their tax liability. Additionally, the CGT discount permits investors to pay tax on only 50% of the capital gain when selling an asset held for more than a year.

Critics contend that these policies infate property prices by encouraging speculative investment, making it increasingly diffcult for frst-time homebuyers to enter the market. They argue that the tax system

should be restructured to promote homeownership and ensure a more equitable distribution of housing resources.

Proponents of maintaining the current tax arrangements assert that negative gearing and CGT discounts are essential for a healthy rental market. They claim that these incentives encourage investment in rental properties, thereby increasing housing supply and keeping rental prices in check. They also warn that altering these tax benefts

Renewed Debate Over Negative Gearing and Capital Gains Tax Concessions in Australia

could lead to a reduction in rental property availability and higher rents.

The debate over negative gearing and CGT concessions has been a contentious issue in Australian politics for years. Previous attempts to reform these policies have faced signifcant opposition from various stakeholders, including property investors, real estate professionals, and political fgures concerned about potential economic repercussions. As housing affordability continues

to be a pressing concern, the discussion around tax reform is gaining momentum.

Policymakers are being urged to consider measures that balance the needs of investors with the goal of making housing more accessible to a broader segment of the population.

Potential reforms include limiting negative gearing to new constructions, thereby directing investment towards increasing housing supply, and reducing the CGT discount to ensure a fairer tax system. Such

changes aim to curb speculative investment and redirect focus towards long-term housing solutions.

The outcome of this debate will have signifcant implications for the Australian housing market, tax policy, and the broader economy. As discussions continue, stakeholders from all sectors are closely monitoring developments, recognizing that any changes to these tax provisions will have far-reaching effects on property investment and housing affordability.

Brisbane’s 2032 Olympics: A Catalyst for Doubling Property Values in Key Suburbs

The announcement of Brisbane as the host city for the 2032 Olympic Games has ignited a signifcant surge in property market interest, with experts forecasting that housing prices in certain suburbs could potentially double by the time the Games commence.

Historical Precedents

Indicate Potential Growth

Drawing parallels from past Olympic host cities, the property market in Sydney experienced substantial growth leading up to and following the 2000 Olympics. Between the announcement in 1993 and the event in 2000, Sydney’s property market saw a 60% increase. Post-Games, the median house price further increased by 88% over the subsequent fve years. Similarly, London witnessed a 38% rise in property values over fve years following the 2012 Olympics.

These historical trends suggest that Brisbane’s property

market could experience comparable growth, particularly in suburbs directly impacted by Olympic infrastructure developments.

Infrastructure Developments Driving Demand

The preparation for the Olympics involves signifcant infrastructure projects, including the construction of new sporting venues, transportation upgrades, and urban revitalization efforts. These developments are expected to enhance the liveability and accessibility of various suburbs, making them more attractive to both investors and

homebuyers.

Suburbs in proximity to planned Olympic venues and infrastructure projects are anticipated

to beneft the most. The increased demand in these areas is likely to drive up property values as buyers seek to capitalize on the improved amenities and potential for capital growth.

Investor Interest and Market Dynamics

The prospect of signifcant property value appreciation has already attracted the attention of investors.

The combination of infrastructure improvements, increased demand, and historical precedents of property value growth in Olympic

host cities creates a compelling case for investment in Brisbane’s property market. However, it’s essential for investors to conduct thorough due diligence, considering factors such as the specifc locations of infrastructure projects, timelines for development, and broader economic conditions that could infuence market dynamics.

Conclusion

Brisbane’s selection as the host city for the 2032 Olympic Games presents a unique opportunity for property market growth,

particularly in suburbs directly affected by upcoming infrastructure developments. While historical trends from previous Olympic host cities provide a positive outlook, investors and homebuyers should approach the market with careful analysis to make informed decisions.

As the city prepares for the global event, the property market’s evolution will be closely watched, with the potential for substantial value appreciation in the years leading up to the Games.

JEFF GIBBS

JEFF GIBBS

2025 Kia Tasman Review

• Tasman SX+ 4x4:

$62,390

• Tasman X-Line 4x4:

Kia is set to make a signifcant impact on the Australian ute market with the introduction of the 2025 Tasman, its frst-ever dual-cab pickup.

Designed with a focus on versatility, performance, and affordability, the Tasman aims to challenge established competitors like the Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux, Mitsubishi Triton, and Isuzu D-Max. Model Range and Pricing

Kia offers the Tasman in several trims to cater to a range of preferences and budgets:

• Tasman S 4x2:

$42,990

• Tasman S 4x4:

$49,990

• Tasman SX 4x4:

$54,490

$67,990

• Tasman X-Pro 4x4:

$74,990

These prices position the Tasman competitively within the segment, offering a range of features and capabilities that cater to various user needs. Design and Styling

The Tasman’s design has sparked diverse opinions, with some describing it as “polarising.”

Its bold front fascia, characterized by distinctive lighting elements and a prominent grille, sets it apart from traditional ute aesthetics.

While the design may not appeal to everyone, it undeniably gives the Tasman a unique presence on the road.

Powertrain and Performance

Under the hood, the Tasman is powered by a 2.2-litre turbocharged diesel engine, a reliable powerplant previously utilized in models like the Kia Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe. This engine delivers 154kW of power and 441Nm of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While this setup has proven dependable in SUVs, its performance in a fully loaded ute, especially under demanding conditions, remains to be seen.

The 2025 Kia Tasman offers two engine options, each with distinct acceleration capabilities:

• 2.2-litre TurboDiesel Engine: This engine produces 210 PS (approximately 154 kW)

and 441 Nm of torque. It enables the Tasman to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.4 seconds.

Interior and Features

Inside, the Tasman offers a blend of practicality and modern technology. The cabin features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, providing drivers with essential information and entertainment options. Additional amenities include dual-zone climate control, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a suite of advanced driverassistance systems.

Utility and Capability

The Tasman boasts a braked towing capacity of 3,500kg and a payload exceeding 1,000kg, aligning it with industry standards for heavy-duty hauling. Its load bed

measures 1,512mm in length, 1,572mm in width, and 540mm in height, offering a cargo capacity of 1,173 litres. These specifcations position the Tasman as a capable workhorse for both professional and recreational use.

Off-Road Performance

For off-road enthusiasts, the Tasman offers features like an electronic locking differential, terrain modes for various conditions (snow, sand, mud, and rock), and underbody protection. These enhancements, combined with its robust chassis and suspension system, make the Tasman a formidable contender for off-road adventures.

Market Position and Outlook

Kia’s entry into the ute market with the Tasman

signifes a strategic move to capture a signifcant share of Australia’s light commercial vehicle segment.

With its competitive pricing, comprehensive feature set, and strong performance credentials, the Tasman is poised to challenge established players and appeal to a broad customer base.

Conclusion

The 2025 Kia Tasman represents a compelling new option in the Australian ute market, combining performance, technology, and value. As it prepares to hit showrooms, the Tasman is set to make a signifcant impact and offer consumers a fresh alternative in the dual-cab segment.

2025 Nissan Patrol : Enhanced Tech and Luxury Features Elevate the Iconic SUV

JEFF GIBBS

The 2025 Nissan Patrol has received a comprehensive technology overhaul, enhancing its appeal in the competitive full-size SUV market. While retaining its robust 5.6-litre V8 engine and seven-speed automatic transmission, the latest updates focus on interior advancements and user experience improvements.

Advanced Infotainment and Connectivity

A standout feature of the 2025 Patrol is the introduction of a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen across all variants, including the off-road-focused Warrior model. This new

system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, satellite navigation, and includes a wireless charging pad for compatible devices. The integration of a BMW iDrive-style control module and shortcut buttons behind the gear shifter, along with updated steering wheel controls, offers multiple interaction methods for drivers.

Enhanced Driver Information and Comfort

Complementing the infotainment system is a confgurable 7.0inch driver’s display, providing essential vehicle information. The Ti-L variant benefts from additional features such as a 13-speaker

Bose sound system, a new centre console cool box, and a digital rearview mirror, enhancing both comfort and convenience for occupants.

Interior Refnements

The 2025 Patrol offers new interior colour options, including black and chestnut, each paired with corresponding woodgrain accents and quilted leather upholstery. These updates contribute to a more luxurious cabin environment, aligning with the expectations of modern SUV buyers. Off-Road Capabilities

Maintaining its reputation for off-road prowess, the Patrol continues to feature a full-time 4x4

system. The Warrior variant, developed in collaboration with Premcar, includes enhancements such as revised suspension with retuned Hydraulic Body Motion Control (HBMC), new springs, and unique 18-inch alloy wheels ftted with Yokohama Geolandar all-terrain tyres. Additional off-road features include a red front bash plate, rear towbar assembly with twin recovery points, and a bi-modal exhaust system.

Pricing and Availability

The 2025 Nissan Patrol is available in several trims, with indicative drive-away prices ranging from approximately $96,214

for the Ti variant to $116,917 for the Warrior model. These prices position the Patrol competitively within its segment, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and off-road capability.

With these updates, the 2025 Nissan Patrol strengthens its position as a versatile and technologically advanced full-size SUV, catering to both urban drivers and off-road enthusiasts.

JEFF GIBBS

Australian Seniors Confront Rising Financial Pressures Amid Calls for Policy Reform

As Australia’s senior population continues to grow, many older Australians are grappling with escalating fnancial challenges. Recent studies and reports highlight the increasing strain on seniors, prompting calls for comprehensive policy reforms to ensure their well-being and fnancial security.

Financial Struggles

Intensify for Pensioners

A recent report commissioned by Australian Seniors in partnership with research group MyMavins reveals that a signifcant number of retirees are

experiencing fnancial stress. The study found that nearly 58% of Australians aged 50 and above are facing moderate to severe fnancial challenges due to rising living costs. Alarmingly, 10% are experiencing severe diffculties, with many struggling to afford essentials such as utilities, groceries, and medical care. One in fve respondents reported delaying or forgoing medical treatment due to costs, placing their health at risk.

Carolyn McColl, President of the Board for Meals on Wheels NSW, expressed deep concern over these fndings, stating, “The

aged pension is no longer suffcient to meet basic living expenses, with rising costs forcing many elderly Australians to make signifcant sacrifces.”

Healthcare and Aged Care System Under Pressure

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare’s National Aged Care Data Clearinghouse 2022-23 statistics indicate a 267% increase in home care admissions over the past decade. This surge underscores the growing demand for aged care services, which is straining the existing infrastructure.

Daniel Gannon, Executive Director of the Retirement Living

The Australian Government’s upcoming overhaul of the aged care system, set to commence on July 1, 2025, has elicited signifcant concern among older Australians. The introduction of the “Support at Home” program aims to streamline home care services but also brings changes to funding structures, particularly through the implementation of means-tested copayments.

Key Changes Under the Support at Home Program

The Support at Home program is designed to replace the existing Home Care Packages, introducing a more tailored approach with eight levels of support, up from the current four. These levels are categorized into:

• Clinical Care: Services like nursing and occupational therapy, fully funded by the government.

• Independence Supports: Assistance with daily activities such as showering and dressing, requiring co-payments based on income.

• Everyday Living Supports: Services like cleaning and gardening, also subject to means-tested co-payments. For the frst time, the government will regulate the maximum prices for home care services to prevent overcharging. However, the introduction of co-payments has raised concerns about affordability, especially among full pensioners and self-funded retirees. Concerns from the Community Advocates and recipients of home care services have

Council, emphasized the urgency of addressing these challenges, noting that the current federal budget lacks a longterm plan to tackle the country’s care defcit.

Advocacy for Policy Reforms

National Seniors Australia has outlined several key priorities for the federal government to better support older Australians. These include increasing the value of the Private

Health Insurance Rebate for low-income individuals, establishing a targeted Seniors Dental Benefts Scheme, and conducting a comprehensive review of the private health system to ensure it provides value for money. Additionally, there is a push for enhancing face-to-face banking services, particularly in regional and rural areas, to assist seniors who may be digitally illiterate or

require in-person support for complex banking issues.

Conclusion

The fnancial and healthcare challenges facing Australia’s senior population are multifaceted and growing. Addressing these issues requires a concerted effort from policymakers, healthcare providers, and community organizations to implement reforms that ensure the dignity,

New Aged Care Reforms Spark Concerns Among Older Australians

signifcant fnancial burdens.

expressed anxiety over the impending changes.

Christina Tsobanis, a carer for her mother who has Alzheimer’s disease, fears that the new costs could force reductions in essential services.

She notes that while her mother is protected under the “no worse off” principle, new entrants to the system may face

Similarly, aged care consultant Jim Moraitis highlights that even modest co-payments could impact those on fxed incomes. He estimates that full pensioners receiving fve to six hours of support weekly might pay an additional $10 to $30 per week, a substantial amount for individuals managing tight budgets. Government’s Stance and Additional Measures

The government asserts

that the reforms will lead to better-targeted support and reduced wait times for services. A new palliative care payment of $25,000 will also be available to assist individuals wishing to spend their fnal months at home.

To ensure a smooth transition, the introduction of pricing caps for in-home aged care providers has been postponed until July 2026. This delay aims to give providers adequate time to adjust to the new system without

disrupting services.

Looking Ahead

While the Support at Home program promises improved access and tailored care, the fnancial implications for older Australians remain a point of contention. As the implementation date approaches, ongoing dialogue between the government, service providers, and the community will be crucial to address concerns and ensure the reforms meet the needs of all stakeholders.

JEFF GIBBS

ROBERT HEYWARD

WHATS ON THE MENU TONIGHT?

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

CHICKEN, MUSHROOM

Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these homemade churros are a delightful treat inspired by traditional Spanish street food. Perfect for dipping in thick hot chocolate or enjoying on their own, they bring a taste of Spain to your kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (250 ml) water

• 1/4 stick (28 grams) unsalted butter

• 2 teaspoons sugar

• Pinch of salt

• 2/3 cup (110 grams) all-purpose four

• 1 egg

• Oil for frying

• Sugar and ground cinnamon, for coating

Method:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine water, butter, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.

2. Add the four to the boiling mixture and stir vigorously until the dough comes together and forms a smooth ball. This should take about 1–2 minutes.

This pie is pure comfort in a dish—creamy, savoury, and packed with tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and sweet leeks. Wrapped in golden, faky pastry, it’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug and turns an ordinary dinner into something truly special. The flling is enriched with a velvety sauce made from a blend of chicken stock, thickened cream, Dijon mustard, and a touch of miso paste, adding depth and umami to every bite. Fresh tarragon brings a subtle aniseed note that lifts the richness of the dish. The combination of brown and button mushrooms provides an earthy contrast to the sweetness of the leeks and the succulence of the chicken thigh fllets. Encased in a lattice of crisp, buttery puff pastry, the pie is fnished with a glossy egg wash and a sprinkle of sesame seeds,

adding a delightful crunch and visual appeal. Baked until the pastry is puffed and golden, the result is a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether served with a side of steamed greens or enjoyed on its own, this chicken, mushroom, and leek pie is a timeless classic that brings comfort and joy to any table.

Ingredients:

1. 1 tbsp olive oil

2. 500g chicken thigh fllets, chopped into bite sized hero piece

3. 2 leeks, sliced

4. 200g brown mushrooms, thickly sliced

5. 100g button mushrooms, thickly sliced

6. ¼ cup plain four

7. 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

8. 1 tbsp miso paste

9. 1½ cups chicken stock

10. ½ cup thickened

cream

11. 2 tbsp chopped tarragon

12. 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, just thawed 13. 1 egg, lightly whisked 14. 1 tsp sesame seeds

Method:

1. Preheat & Prepare: Set your oven to 200°C. Give it a pep talk—it’s showtime.

2. Chicken Tango: Heat oil in a large pan over high heat. Add half the chicken and cook until golden. Repeat with the remaining chicken. Transfer all to a bowl.

3. Leek Peek: In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Cook leeks until softened. Add to the chicken bowl.

4. Mushroom Medley: Add mushrooms to the pan and cook until tender. Return chicken and leeks to the pan.

5. Saucy Business: Sprinkle four over the mixture and stir for 2 minutes. Add mustard,

miso paste, and chicken stock. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat.

6. Creamy Dream: Stir in cream and tarragon. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer the mixture to a 3L pie dish.

7. Pastry Puzzle: Cut pastry sheets into 3cm strips. Arrange over the flling in a lattice pattern. Trim excess pastry.

8. Egg Wash & Sprinkle: Brush pastry with whisked egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

9. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 2530 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden.

10. Serve & Savor: Let the pie cool slightly (if you can wait), then dig in and enjoy the creamy, savory goodness!

Enjoy your culinary adventure!

3. Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the dough to cool slightly. Once it’s warm (not hot), add the egg. Mix quickly and thoroughly until the egg is fully incorporated and the dough is smooth. The dough will be thick.

4. Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of dough into the oil; it should sizzle and rise to the surface.

5. Transfer the dough into a piping bag ftted with a star-shaped nozzle. Pipe the dough directly into the hot oil, cutting it to your desired length with a pair of scissors or a knife.

6. Fry the churros in batches, turning them occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 2 minutes per batch.

7. Remove the churros from the oil and drain them on paper towels. While still warm, roll them in a mixture of sugar and ground cinnamon to coat.

8. Serve the churros warm, ideally with a cup of thick hot chocolate for dipping.

Enjoy your homemade churros!

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

BEAUDESERT

BARTHOLOMEW & CO MARKET REPORT

SANTA STEERS TOP $1970 AT BEAUDESERT ANNUAL SHOW & SALE

A strong and competitive market greeted vendors at the Annual Santa Show & Sale held by Bartholomew & Co at Beaudesert on Saturday, with agents reporting an outstanding yarding and frm demand across all categories. High-quality lines of feeder steers sold to slightly dearer rates compared to previous sales.

Sale Highlights:

• Matthew and Kylie Haack, Josephville, achieved the top price of the day, selling 2-year-old Santa steers for $1970.

• The Beutel Family, Boonah, sold 2-year-old Santa steers for $1820.

• Jamie Tully, Beaudesert, sold Santa x Hereford steers for $1800.

• John and Jane Stanton, Cannon Creek, sold Hereford x Santa steers, 20 months, for $1790.

WARWICK

LIVESTOCK MARKET REPORT –WARWICK & DISTRICT WEEK ENDING 25 APRIL 2025

A combination of public holidays and scattered local rainfall impacted livestock throughput at Warwick & District saleyards this past week, resulting in reduced yardings across all categories. Both vendors and processors were affected by the shortened trading week, with inclement weather further restricting stock movement and marketing. Despite lower numbers, market conditions remained frm, with some categories experiencing notable price increases driven by targeted buyer demand. Cattle Market

A total of 688 head of cattle were yarded, with frm pricing evident across most categories. Demand from processors and restockers was solid, particularly for quality lines.

• Bulls averaged 303.9c/kg, reaching a top of 340.2c/kg, translating to returns between $1602.68 and $2976.00.

• Cows averaged 259.5c/kg, topping at 308.2c/kg, with returns from $1386.88 to $2350.02.

• Feeder Heifers averaged 324c/kg, with a peak of 378.2c/kg, making between $1141.19 and $1428.18.

• Feeder Steers averaged 356.8c/kg, topping at 382.2c/kg, bringing $1350.37 to $1848.28.

• Heifers averaged 305.8c/kg, peaking at 366.2c/ kg, returning $1400.74 to $2274.04.

• Manufacturing Steers averaged 286.2c/kg, with a top of 292.2c/kg, earning between $1599.19 and $1884.69.

• Steers averaged 317.5c/kg, reaching 365.2c/kg, yielding returns of $1710.64 to $2058.67.

• Vealer Heifers averaged 314.76c/kg, with a high of 380.2c/kg, ranging from $710.46 to $1091.72.

• Yawarra Pty Ltd, Nindooinbah, sold 18-monthold Santa steers for $1700.

• Oppermann Pastoral, Teviotville, sold 15-monthold Santa steers for $1480.

• Ian Sellars, Rosevale, sold 14-month-old Santa steers for $1360.

• Brett and Tamika McAllister, Tarome, sold 14-month-old Santa steers for $1320.

In the weaner division:

• Trevor and Sue Whitehall, Mt Berryman, sold Santa weaner steers for $1300.

• Mark and Vickee Binstead, Palen Creek, sold Santa weaner steers for $1290.

• JK Grazing, Christmas Creek, sold Santa weaner steers for $1270.

• The Richards Family, Palen Creek, sold Santa weaner steers for $1150.

• The Kleinschmidt Family, Maudsland, sold Santa x weaner steers for $1140.

• Cromack Wainwright, Rosevale, sold Santa weaner steers for $1100.

In the female section:

• Segla International, Cainbable, sold preg-testedin-calf (PTIC) Santa heifers for a standout $1950.

• Vealer Steers fetched the highest average of 385.5c/kg, topping at 438.2c/kg, or $862.42 to $1228.50.

• Yearling Heifers averaged 281.7c/kg, peaking at 318.2c/kg, returning $642.13 to $999.75.

• Yearling Steers averaged 349.9c/kg, topping at 420.2c/kg, yielding between $964.96 and $2060.24. Sheep & Lamb Market Sheep and lamb yardings were back on previous weeks due to similar challenges with logistics and reduced processor shifts. However, strong buyer activity, especially following recent rainfall, pushed prices upward across almost all lines. A total of 1128 head were yarded, averaging $130.65/head, which marks a $22 increase week-on-week.

• Lambs topped at $240, averaging $154.02/head –up $24.

• Hoggets reached $161, averaging $135.53/head –up $30.

• Ram Lambs hit $161, averaging $144.11/head – a $49 rise.

• Wethers sold to $136, averaging $130.65/head –up $22.

• Ewes topped at $130, averaging $101.60/head –up $38.

• Rams peaked at $90, with an average of $75.92/ head – down $2.

• Ewe & Lamb Units sold to $174 per unit. Notable Sales

• Greenup Maryland P/S sold 56.2kg Poll Dorset lambs to Take IT Easy Meats for $240.

• Sovereign Downs Poll Dorset sold 54kg shorn lambs for $230 and 50kg suckers for $221, both to Take IT Easy Meats.

• McDougall F/T sold 45.5kg Dorper lambs to GR Prime for $188.

• John & Regina Henry sold Dorper lambs at $196 and $175, ewes for $85, and rams to restockers for $65.

• The Potts Family, Beaudesert, sold PTIC Santa heifers for $1700.

• Sam Carter, Guanaba, sold 20-month-old Droughtmaster x heifers for $1330.

• The Richards Family sold 12-month-old Santa heifers for $1030.

• Ian Sellars sold 12-month-old Santa heifers for $970.

• Trevor and Sue Whitehall sold Santa weaner heifers for $1010.

• Rob and Michelle Arthy, Chinghee Creek, sold Santa x weaner heifers for $800.

In the cow and calf division:

• Segla International Pty Ltd sold Santa cows and calves for $1750.

In the bull sale highlight:

• The Beutel Family achieved a top bull price of $8500 for a Santa bull.

Looking Ahead: THE NEXT FIXTURE ON THE CALENDAR IS THE BEAUDESERT WEANER & STORE SALE, SCHEDULED FOR THIS SATURDAY AT 9.30AM.

• JMC Grazing, Morven sold Dorper ewes to Thomas Foods for up to $130, with restocker sales between $88 and $78, and rams to McIntyre Meats and restockers.

• Reimers Family sold Dorper x lambs up to $199.

• Esdene Kruger sold Dorper ewe and lamb units for $174.

• Victoria Hill sold Dorper ram lambs to Take IT Easy Meats for $161, and rams to restockers for $90.

• Owen McAuley had standout sales of crossbred wethers for $136, Merino ewes for $52, and crossbred lambs from $60 to $140.

Pork & Poultry

Pig numbers remained low for another consecutive week, but pricing held frm:

• Gilts sold from $165 to $340

• Boars ranged from $90 to $115

• Sows achieved $140 to $180

• Pork sold from $204 to $230

• Barrows reached $130

• Store pigs ranged from $52 to $202

Poultry volumes also remained subdued:

• Pullets topped at $40

• Roosters up to $30

• Hens sold to $42.50

• Ducks reached $12.50

• Drakes peaked at $25

Market Outlook

With rainfall and short operational weeks continuing to disrupt supply chains, vendors and buyers are adjusting to fuctuating conditions. However, strong processor and restocker demand, particularly for prime lambs and feeder cattle, suggest confdence remains steady across most sectors. The market is expected to remain frm in the coming weeks should current demand levels persist.

For further market trends and future reports, stay connected with Warwick & District Livestock Sales.

In a signifcant change to biosecurity policy, Biosecurity Queensland has formally eased restrictions on the movement of honeybee hives across state borders, a decision welcomed by apiarists across the state. The move follows the detection of Varroa destructor mites in Queensland and signals a strategic transition from eradication to management of the pest.

The new policy allows for the conditional entry of varroa-free hives from infected zones, marking a major milestone in Australia’s national response to the most destructive parasitic threat to honeybees globally.

Background: From Containment to Coexistence Varroa destructor, a microscopic red mite known for devastating honeybee colonies worldwide, was frst detected in Australia in 2022 in New South Wales. Queensland successfully kept the pest at bay until March 2025, when it was confrmed on four properties in the Lockyer Valley. The infestation has since

Queensland Loosens Varroa Mite Restrictions

four weeks, up from the previous 16-week interval. Regular alcohol wash tests are the primary diagnostic tool, with a treatment threshold set at fve mites per 300 bees.

Integrated pest management methods now encouraged by Biosecurity Queensland include:

• Queen caging to interrupt the brood cycle and reduce mite reproduction;

• Screened bottom boards to prevent mites from climbing back into the hive;

• Use of mite-tolerant queen bee genetics;

• Access to chemical miticides — although supply remains a challenge in some regions.

among states but urged continued investment.

“It’s critical that governments maintain momentum in research, monitoring, and extension services,” Le Feuvre said. “The longer we can protect clean zones, the better the outcomes for national food security.”

What’s Next: A LongTerm Management Strategy

The policy shift in Queensland is part of a broader national strategy that acknowledges eradication is no longer feasible. Instead, stakeholders are working toward building longterm resilience and adaptation in the face of Varroa’s inevitable spread.

spread to 25 sites across the Lockyer Valley and Somerset regions, sparking concern among both beekeepers and crop producers who rely on honeybee pollination.

Until now, Queensland maintained strict border controls to protect its $100 million apiculture industry and the broader agricultural economy.

With the mite now present in the state, offcials are shifting toward integrated pest management (IPM) strategies to mitigate its impact.

Policy Change: Conditional Movement Permits Now Available

As of mid-April, Biosecurity Queensland has removed Varroa destructor from its prohibited matter list, enabling hive movements from infected regions — under strict biosecurity protocols.

Applications for movement permits are now being accepted from beekeepers, who must demonstrate that their hives are Varroafree and comply with new surveillance and monitoring requirements.

“We’ll progressively loosen restrictions, and

eventually it will be possible for hives with varroa to move across borders,” said Rob Stephens, Varroa Mite Program Manager at Biosecurity Queensland.

Welcome Controlled Hive Movements Amid Strategic Shift in Management

“But we’re not at that point yet.”

Industry Response: Relief for Beekeepers and Growers

The change is a major relief for Queensland’s estimated 1,800 beekeepers, who rely on hive mobility to access nectar fows and fulfl pollination contracts for crops like almonds, avocados, and macadamias.

Jacob Stevens, President of the Queensland Beekeepers’ Association, said the past two years of restrictions had left many in the industry struggling.

“The impact of border closures has been severe,” Stevens said.

“This policy shift will free up critical foral resources and bring much-needed fexibility to the commercial sector.”

He added that beekeepers will still need to demonstrate bestpractice hygiene and monitoring to ensure the safe movement of hives and minimise the risk of further spread.

New Surveillance Requirements: Vigilance Remains Critical

Despite the relaxation, Queensland’s biosecurity framework remains rigorous. Beekeepers are now required to inspect and test their hives every

National Context: A Patchwork of Varroa Responses

While Queensland joins New South Wales, Victoria, and the ACT in transitioning toward management, other jurisdictions remain Varroa-free — including South Australia, Tasmania, Western Australia, and the Northern Territory. These states continue to enforce border closures and active surveillance in an attempt to delay the mite’s arrival.

Danny Le Feuvre, CEO of the Australian Honey Bee Industry Council (AHBIC), praised the coordination

Federal and state governments are expected to develop a national management framework later this year, with consultation from industry bodies, apiarists, researchers, and crop producers.

As Queensland adapts to a new era of living with Varroa, experts stress that cooperation and compliance from all beekeepers will be essential to safeguarding the future of pollinationdependent agriculture.

For more information or to apply for movement permits, visit: www.daf.qld.gov.au

For updates on the Varroa mite program, see: Bee 123 Portal

Bipartisan Backing for Farm Safety Funding Hailed as Lifesaving Initiative

Coraki Rural & Hardware Supplies

102-104 Queen Elizabeth Drive CORAKI

Australia’s farm sector has applauded a rare show of bipartisan unity after both the Labor Government and Coalition committed $2.5 million to support Farmsafe Australia in tackling a surge in farm fatalities and serious injuries.

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has praised the funding announcement as a “lifesaving move,” following what has been described as one of the worst years on record for agricultural workplace deaths.

According to AgHealth Australia, 2024 saw 72 farm-related deaths and 133 serious injuries, more than double the fgures recorded in 2023. The tragic increase has reignited calls for long-term investment in safety initiatives tailored specifcally for the agricultural industry.

NFF: “Every Death Shatters a Family”

NFF President David Jochinke welcomed the $2.5 million commitment, describing it as a crucial step forward in reversing a devastating trend.

“Every death shatters

a family. There are 72 families across Australia grieving from just one year. This funding sends a signal that the safety of farming families matters – and that Government has a role to play in fxing this,” he said.

Jochinke emphasised that the commitment from both sides of politics marks an important moment in recognising that farm safety is a shared national responsibility, not just an individual or industry issue.

Farmsafe Australia: Funding Will Drive Change

Farmsafe Australia

Chair Felicity Richards, a Tasmanian farmer and passionate safety advocate, echoed those sentiments and said the funding would be a game-changer for efforts on the ground.

“This support comes at a critical time,” Mrs Richards said. “We’ve seen far too many tragedies over the years, and we know that with the right information and education, many of these could have been prevented.”

She said the funding would empower Farmsafe Australia to deliver more practical, farmer-focused safety

resources, including awareness campaigns, education programs, and tools designed to address real-world hazards faced by rural workers.

Safety Culture: From Afterthought to Everyday Practice

One of the central aims of the program is to embed safety into every decision on the farm, rather than treating it as an afterthought. Mrs Richards stressed the importance of creating generational change — where safety isn’t optional, but instinctive.

“It also gives us the confdence to continue building a national culture where safety is not an afterthought but part of every decision on the farm,” she said.

The funding will also support intergenerational education, with initiatives targeting children, teenagers, and older farmers. Tractors, quad bikes, water sources, and machinery are among the leading causes of fatalities, and Farmsafe has long argued that consistent education is the best way to address them.

A United Front for a Safer Future

The bipartisan commitment was described as “deeply

encouraging” by Mrs Richards.

“It’s heartening to see both sides of politics recognise the importance of what we do. Farm safety is a responsibility for all of us. It’s about making sure the next generation grows up with their parents, their siblings, and their neighbours still alive.” She added, “This funding allows us to focus on what matters most: preventing injury and saving lives.”

National Farm Safety Week

The funding announcement comes ahead of National Farm Safety Week, to be held from 20–26 July 2025. This year’s theme, “Second Chances – Who knows how many you’ll get”, is a poignant reminder of the unpredictable and high-risk nature of farm work.

The NFF and Farmsafe Australia hope the new funding — and the political unity behind it — will mark a turning point in reducing preventable harm and creating a lasting culture of safety across Australia’s agricultural communities.

IAN ROGERS

A new scientifc study has revealed that feral cats are responsible for signifcantly more deaths of Australia’s reintroduced native animals than previously recorded. The fndings, drawn from advanced DNA forensics, point to feral cats as the primary predator threatening species such as bilbies, bettongs, possums, and quolls—many of which are already under severe threat from habitat loss and climate change. Conducted in the remote outback of South Australia, the study used innovative technology to uncover the true scale of predation by cats,

showing that traditional methods of monitoring such deaths have vastly underestimated their impact.

DNA Technology

Unmasks the Predator Researchers from the University of New South Wales and Arid Recovery attached radio collars with mortality sensors to vulnerable native animals that had been reintroduced into conservation areas. These sensors triggered alerts whenever an animal died, allowing researchers to recover the bodies within hours. Crucially, the collars and the animals’ wounds were swabbed for DNA, revealing a consistent and disturbing pattern.

“We were able to

determine that cats were responsible for most of the deaths after release, and that wouldn’t have been obvious from the feld science alone,” said Professor Katherine Moseby, one of the lead researchers.

The use of forensic DNA testing showed that while animals often displayed no external injuries or had ambiguous signs, they had in fact been attacked or fatally injured by cats. In other instances, animals were found alive but with severe wounds—most commonly across their backs—indicative of cat ambushes. Many of these eventually died from infections or starvation. Reintroduced Species

New DNA Study Reveals Feral Cats as Major Killers of Reintroduced Native Wildlife in Australia

Under Siege

The study focused on threatened species that conservation groups have worked for decades to reintroduce into secure environments. These include:

• Greater bilbies (Macrotis lagotis)

• Burrowing bettongs (Bettongia lesueur)

• Western quolls (Dasyurus geoffroii)

• Brush-tailed possums

The research suggests that even in fenced or semi-managed conservation areas, feral cats can evade detection and decimate recovering populations, undermining years of conservation work.

Urgent Call for National Action In response to the fndings, the Invasive Species Council is calling on the next federal government to commit $60 million to a national feral cat control strategy. The plan would

include scaling up monitoring programs, investment in new detection technologies, and expanding safe havens free from invasive predators.

“This study is a wake-up call,” said a spokesperson from the Invasive Species Council. “If we’re serious about saving our wildlife from extinction, we must control feral cats. This needs coordinated national funding and support.”

Feral cats have long been identifed as one of the biggest threats to Australia’s unique biodiversity. Since European settlement, they have been linked to at least 25 mammal extinctions, making them a key driver of Australia’s title as the country with the highest mammal extinction rate in the world.

A Race Against Time

The study underscores

the urgent need for more rigorous intervention strategies. Although many reintroduction projects have celebrated short-term success, this new evidence shows that predation by feral cats could undo decades of conservation progress unless decisive action is taken.

“You can have all the fences, rewilding plans, and breeding programs you want,” Professor Moseby warned, “but if cats are still getting in and picking off animals one by one, it’s only a matter of time.”

As Australia gears up for the next federal election, conservation groups are hoping this research will add pressure on policymakers to prioritise environmental protection — starting with the development of a robust, well-funded plan to tackle the nation’s feral cat crisis.

Farmers Alarmed by ‘Sneaky’ Election Promises on Animal Welfare

Farmers Slam Unconsulted

Animal Welfare Promises as Election Tensions Rise Australia’s peak farming body has hit out at Labor and the Greens over a series of animal welfare election pledges that farmers say were developed behind closed doors, heavily infuenced by activist groups, and announced without proper consultation with the agricultural sector.

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has raised serious concerns about a pre-election scorecard released by the Australian Alliance for Animals, which outlines several major policy commitments from political parties that could impact the future of Australian farming.

Unannounced Policies Trigger Industry Alarm Key among the proposals fagged by the NFF are:

• A new animal welfare trade policy potentially

embedding welfare clauses in future international trade deals.

• Expansion of the Inspector-General of Animal Welfare and Live Animal Export role, which was recently restructured and flled.

• Support for extending Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status to all animal welfare charities — a move the NFF warns could funnel taxpayer dollars to extreme activist groups.

NFF President David Jochinke described the

revelations as “alarming” and accused both parties of siding with a “citybased minority” lacking understanding of on-farm practices.

“Decisions and regulations around animal welfare must be informed by science and developed in consultation with industry. This process has been anything but,” Mr Jochinke said.

Farming Voices Ignored

The NFF argues that Australian farmers already lead the world in

animal welfare and were instrumental in developing the National Statement on Animal Welfare. Despite this, they say the farm sector has been ignored in favour of political opportunism.

“The voices of farmers who care for animals daily have been sidelined,”

Mr Jochinke said. “We support strong welfare standards — but they must be evidence-based, not dictated by ideology.”

The NFF also warned that embedding animal welfare clauses into trade negotiations could jeopardise market access, threatening Australian food exports.

Concerns Over Funding Activist Groups

The proposal to broaden DGR status to all animal welfare organisations has sparked particular concern.

“Giving DGR status to radical activist groups isn’t about animal welfare — it’s about bankrolling campaigns to dismantle Australian agriculture,” said Mr Jochinke.

This follows backlash over the Federal Government’s decision to phase out live sheep exports, which the NFF says ignored scientifc

evidence and industry standards.

Questions Over Inspector-General Role

Further unease surrounds the expanded scope of the Inspector-General of Animal Welfare, a role held by Dr Katherine Clift since September 2024. Dr Clift is yet to publish her frst review.

“It’s beyond disappointing to see sweeping reforms foated before the offce has even released a single report,” Mr Jochinke added.

Farmers Demand Transparency

With the Australian Animal Welfare Strategy (AAWS) roundtable on the horizon, the NFF says trust is eroding fast.

“Farmers are engaging in good faith — only to see backroom deals unfold during an election campaign,” Mr Jochinke said.

As the Federal Election approaches, the NFF is urging all parties to engage directly with industry and back policies that protect livelihoods, uphold science-based regulation, and maintain Australia’s global reputation for ethical, sustainable food production.

IAN ROGERS

IAN ROGERS

Federal Election Promises Spark Hope for Universal Mobile Coverage Across Regional Australia

Australia’s major political parties are turning their focus to regional telecommunications in the lead-up to the 2025 Federal Election, with the Albanese Government announcing a bold commitment to legislate universal mobile coverage if re-elected. The proposal, aimed at closing the digital divide between metropolitan and regional communities, has been welcomed by industry groups and rural stakeholders alike — but questions remain over how it will be implemented and whether it will go far enough.

Labor’s Plan: Coverage for All by 2027

Under Labor’s proposal, telcos would be required to provide nationwide coverage for voice and SMS, regardless of a user’s physical location, by leveraging Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite networks such as Starlink. The plan would place universal coverage obligations on mobile providers

— a frst in Australian telecommunications policy — and aims for full implementation by 2027.

The government says this is about ensuring no Australian is left behind, especially those living or working in remote, regional, and rural communities where mobile blackspots remain a serious issue.

The policy would complement Labor’s previous investments in mobile infrastructure, including funding to extend terrestrial mobile towers under the Mobile Black Spot Program.

Why It Matters

For people living in areas like the outback, farming districts, and regional coastal towns, mobile coverage is often patchy or non-existent. This has a direct impact on safety, business operations, education, and emergency response.

Paul Gaughan, a paramedic based in Esperance, Western Australia, highlighted the real-world risks of poor connectivity. He described situations where ambulance crews were unable to contact hospitals or receive updated directions due to

lack of signal, potentially delaying life-saving care.

“You go around a bend and lose reception. That’s it. If you’re with a patient having a cardiac arrest, you’re on your own,” Gaughan said.

“We need this kind of reform.”

Stakeholders React

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) welcomed the announcement, describing it as a positive step in addressing longstanding communication challenges faced by rural communities.

NFF President David Jochinke said it’s critical that mobile providers are compelled to improve their services in rural and agricultural zones. However, he cautioned that satellite-based coverage should not come at the expense of expanding land-based infrastructure, such as mobile towers and fbre links, which still play a vital role in dataheavy usage like farm management systems, remote education, and online health services.

“Satellite is part of the solution, but we still need continued investment in traditional

terrestrial networks,” Jochinke noted.

What About the Coalition?

The Coalition, while also fagging telecommunications as a key election issue, has yet to provide specifc legislative commitments. Their campaign has included broad promises to “improve access to reliable telecommunications and high-speed internet,” but details on scope, funding, and timelines remain unclear.

In the last federal term, the Coalition also invested in mobile coverage upgrades, and under their stewardship, the Mobile Black Spot Program had bipartisan support. However, with growing demand for seamless mobile

connectivity — driven by safety, business, and lifestyle needs — rural voters are looking for frm commitments and clearer timelines.

What’s Next?

The universal mobile coverage plan proposed by Labor would see obligations enforced through new legislation, ensuring that telcos meet minimum coverage standards. The plan would effectively force providers to partner with LEO satellite networks, enabling users to access voice and text services in even the most remote parts of the country.

While this would not initially include full mobile data coverage (such as 4G or 5G), the inclusion of SMS and voice services is seen as a lifeline for those in

emergencies or isolated areas.

If passed, the legislation would represent the most signifcant shift in telecommunications policy since mobile coverage began expanding in the 1990s. Final Word With early voting already underway, regional Australians — particularly those in mobile blackspot zones — will be watching closely to see which party offers the clearest and most comprehensive plan to fx one of the country’s most pressing infrastructure issues.

For many, it’s not just about convenience. It’s about safety, opportunity, and being connected to the rest of the country.

EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS

Experience the best at Primex Field Days with a diverse program for the whole family.

Meet Australia’s animals with Old Macdonald’s Travelling Farms, The Wildlife Twins, and Working Dog Trials. Indulge in culinary delights with celebrity chefs at the Paddock to Plate Stage. Listen to live entertainment, enjoy a scenic flight with Gold Coast Helitours or a relaxing ride on the Dinky D Train. Explore event features, entertainment, and the official program on our website.

primex.net.au

IAN ROGERS

Raised Garden Bed Ideas for Growing &Herbs Vegetables

Here are some creative and practical raised garden bed ideas perfect for growing herbs and vegetables in your backyard, courtyard, or even on a balcony. These ideas improve soil drainage, reduce weed growth, and make gardening more accessible — especially for those with limited mobility or space.

1. TIMBER BOX BEDS

Ideal for: Backyards and patios

Why it works: Classic and cost-effective, timber beds made from untreated hardwood (like cypress or red gum) are durable and naturally resistant to rot. You can construct them to any height or length to suit your growing space.

Tip: Line with geotextile fabric to prevent soil loss and add drainage gravel at the base.

2. CORRUGATED METAL BEDS

Ideal for: Stylish or modern gardens

Why it works: Pre-made or DIY corrugated iron beds are easy to assemble, offer excellent depth for root vegetables, and have a clean, contemporary look.

Tip: Consider painted versions or add a timber trim for aesthetic contrast.

3. VERTICAL HERB TOWERS

Ideal for: Small spaces or balconies

Why it works: Stackable planters or vertical pallets allow you to grow several herbs or greens in a small footprint. Perfect for parsley, chives, basil, mint, and thyme.

Tip: Position it near your kitchen for easy picking while cooking.

4. CINDER BLOCK BED FRAMES

Ideal for: DIY enthusiasts on a budget

Why it works: Concrete blocks form instant walls and can be arranged into various shapes. You can even fll the holes with soil and grow herbs inside them.

Tip: Paint them to add a pop of colour and seal them to prevent leaching.

5. WICKER OR BASKET-STYLE BEDS

Ideal for: Portable or decorative gardens

Why it works: These raised beds offer rustic charm and are great for patios. Many are lightweight and come with liners.

Tip: Grow fast herbs like coriander or lettuce blends that require frequent picking.

6. RECLAIMED TIMBER TIERS

Ideal for: Sloped gardens or layered designs

Why it works: Create cascading levels using salvaged timber or railway sleepers. This allows for smart zoning — sun-loving plants on top, shade-tolerant ones below.

Tip: Use untreated wood to avoid chemicals leaching into the soil.

7. SELF-WATERING WICKING BEDS

Ideal for: Busy gardeners or hot climates

Why it works: Wicking beds have a water reservoir at the base that allows plants to draw moisture as needed, reducing the need for frequent watering.

Tip: Great for thirsty veggies like tomatoes, cucumbers, and basil.

8. RAISED BEDS WITH TRELLISES

Ideal for: Climbing veggies and compact growing

Why it works: Attach a trellis to your raised bed for vertical growing — great for peas, beans, cucumbers, or even cherry tomatoes.

Tip: This maximises space and improves airfow around plants.

9. PORTABLE RAISED PLANTER BOXES ON LEGS

Ideal for: Renters or mobility access

Why it works: These are elevated to waist height, perfect for those who fnd bending diffcult. They’re great for smaller veggie crops and herbs.

Tip: Look for wheeled options for easy repositioning.

Manuel Nila 12. 08. 1930 – 15. 04. 2025 Aged 94 years.

Passed away peacefully, late of Lennox Head. Loving father of Ron (dec), Manuel (dec), Cindy, Cort, Francois, John, Mario, Rachel and Wade.

Adored grandpa of his 20 grandchildren, 38 great grandchildren and 8 great great grandchildren.

Loving brother of Armando and Socorro.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Manuel’s life to be held in the Rainbow Chapel at Guardian Funerals, Ballina on FRIDAY (May 2, 2025) commencing at 10.00am.

LITTLE, MARJORIE JOYCE

27/03/1922 -26/04/2025 103 Years

Passed away peacefully in her own home, Casino. Family and Friends are warmly invited to join us for the celebration of life at Windara Nursey 253 Sextonville Road, Casino NSW 2470, on the Monday 5th May 2025 at 2pm.

“Your life was a gift of love Your love was gift of life” “Forever our dancing Angel”

DATE: 20/05/2025

TIME: 10am – 1pm

PLACE: Health Post Jubullum Village, via Tabulam NSW 2469

AGENDA:

1. Welcomes/Apologies.

2. Minutes of previous Members meeting. Damian Mulherin Accountant Special 30 min. Community Consultation on Report 10:30

3.

4. 23/24 Annual Report

5. Board Remuneration

6. Casual Vacancy Election

7. General Business

8. Alex Gibbon – 12:30pm – 1pm Meeting Closed.

In relation to the election for Board members:

A voting member of Jubullum LALC is not entitled to vote, nominate, accept a nomination or be elected to offce in elections for Board Members if the voting member has not attended at least 2 meetings of the Jubullum LALC in the preceding 12 months as a voting member.

All enquiries about this meeting or voting rights should be directed to the Jubullum LALC during offce hours.

Light Refreshments provided

AUTHORISED: Michelle Nagas, CEO – Jubullum LALC

WANTED

LISMORE BREEDER SALE

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5x5 White Brahman heifer & calves

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10 Brangus cows (PTIC & calved)

A/c L & R Spinaze - Casino

6 Santa/Hereford heifers - unjoined

Somerville 0429 660 657 www.gnfrealestate.com.au

A/c Vegetation Contracting - Alstonville

3 x Angus heifers (PTIC)

13 x Angus cross calves (PTIC)

A/c Owner

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1 Santa Gertrudis Bull 3.5 years old

A/c Crompton Pastoral - Old Bonalbo

25X25 Ultrablack & Sangus Cows & Calves 4-6 Years Old

30 Ultrablack & Sangus PTIC Cows 4-6 years old

Very well bred cows, Carrying Nindooimbah Bloodlines.

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Drop o and pick up available 46 Terania Street, Lismore 6621 9998 Janet Goodwin (Proprietor) 0402 443 988

(Proprietor) 0402 443 988

Drop o and pick up

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WEATHER

www.bom.gov.au

FORECAST

Northern Rivers District:

Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog inland. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the afternoon and evening. Light winds becoming south to southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h during the day then becoming light during the evening. Thursday. Partly cloudy. High chance of showers along the coastal fringe, medium chance elsewhere. Winds southwesterly 15 to 25 km/h turning southerly 20 to 30 km/h during the morning. Northern Tablelands District: Partly cloudy. The chance of fog in the morning, mainly on and west of the ranges. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the afternoon and evening. The chance of a storm in the south. Light winds becoming south to southwesterly 15 to 20 km/h during the morning then tending south to southeasterly 15 to 25 km/h during the afternoon.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. Slight chance of a shower. Winds south to southeasterly 20 to 30 km/h.

New South Wales:

A few showers in the east, more likely and with the chance of a storm along the coastal fringe. The chance of a shower or two on the western slopes. Afternoon storms possible on the northern and central slopes. Dry and sunny in the far west. Daytime temperatures below average, most notably in the southeast. South to southeasterly winds, fresh to strong near the coast.

Thursday. Showers in the east, more likely and with the chance a storm along the coastal fringe. The chance of a shower on the ranges and western slopes. Dry and sunny in the far west. Morning frost possible on the southern half of the ranges and slopes. Daytime temperatures below average in the east and near average in the west. SEto SWwinds, fresh to strong near the coast.

Byron Coast: Winds: Southerly 15 to 25 knots. Seas: Around 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 2 metres during the afternoon or evening. 1st Swell:

Southerly around 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 2 metres during the afternoon or evening. 2nd Swell: South to southeasterly 1 to 1.5 metres, tending easterly below 1 metre during the afternoon or evening. Weather: Partly cloudy. 80% chance of showers. Coffs Coast: Winds: S to SW15 to 20 knots increasing to 20 to 25 knots afternoon. Seas: Around 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 2 metres during the morning. 1st Swell: Southerly around 1 metre, increasing to 2 to 3 metres during the afternoon or evening. 2nd Swell: Southeasterly 1 to 1.5 metres, tending easterly below 1 metre during the afternoon or evening. Weather: Partly cloudy. 80% chance of showers. Gold Coast Waters: Winds: Southerly 15 to 20 knots. Seas: Around 1 metre. 1st Swell: Southerly below 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore during the evening. 2nd Swell: South to southeasterly 1 to 1.5 metres, tending east to southeasterly around 1 metre during the evening. Weather: Partly cloudy. 70% chance of showers.

Between 11-15 May

2025 Casino’s own Cricket Australia Level 3 High Performance Cricket Coach Michael Wood (Woody) will be back in town to run some free coaching sessions for any players interested.

Since his 214 games for the Cavs and being a Far North Coast representative player, Woody has gone on to be a highly successful Far North Coast Regional Coach and North Coast Zone coach, NSW Premier Grade club Randwick/Petersham coach, coach in Cricket Scotland Premier League, Head coach of the Comets Development tour of India in 2024 and an Assistant Coach for the Cricket ACT Comets and U17/19 CACT pathway sides.

Dates and times can be fexible for each player and can be booked through the Casino RSM Cavaliers Facebook page.

Casino Women’s Bowls Results

Casino Women’s Bowls Club hosted the frst round of the Major Consistency competition today, with two rinks in play.

• Jan Cooke defeated Marlene Jordan.

• Judy Carthew defeated Mary Mead.

Congratulations to both Jan and Judy on their wins, and best of luck in the next round!

In the social bowls match, a gentleman bowler joined the competition for a friendly game:

• Jan Dwyer, Graeme Askew, and Maria Hellyar defeated Kaye

Jonsson, Carmel Doyle, and Helen Lavelle. This team was declared the overall winners for the day. Well done to all participants!

Cherry Street Croquet Club – Sports Results Association Croquet – Handicap Singles Club Championships

• G. Drew defeated P. Waters 12–8. Ricochet Croquet Results

• N. Barnes and D. Scott defeated R. Chapman and H. Young 14–13.

• N. Watts and J. Hannigan defeated P. Bolte and R. Poynting 14–12.

• P. Scott defeated N. Poynting and M. Russell 11–11 (countback applied).

• Bev Bill defeated M. Field 15–11.

• D. Scott and G. Porter defeated G. Kerr and P. Waters 15–10.

• R. Poynting and M. Russell defeated N. Poynting 15–7.

Congratulations to all winners and participants for a great week of competition!

Have a local sports or community group you’d like featured in next week’s newsletter? Let us know!

SURF

CITY, EL SALVADOR

Australia’s top longboard surfers are set to take on the world as The Irukandjis Longboard Team heads to Surf City, El Salvador, for the prestigious 2025 ISA World Longboard Championships.

Competition will offcially commence with the Opening Ceremony on April 25 and run through to May 1 at the world-class point break of El Sunzal.

Four elite athletes will fy the Australian fag in the upcoming contest, blending experience, rising talent, and national pride:

• Tully White (Allambie Heights, NSW) – 2024

Australian Longboard Champion

Fresh from her national title victory, Tully White is bringing momentum and a refned, technically

brilliant style to the world stage.

Renowned for her railto-rail transitions and elegant form, White is poised to challenge the world’s best at El Sunzal.

• Clinton Guest (Bokarina, QLD) –Wildcard Selection

An experienced competitor and previous ISA event participant, Clinton Guest’s return to El Salvador comes with the wisdom of a seasoned longboarder.

“Representing Australia again is the ultimate honour,” said Guest. “I want to inspire the next generation and make new memories with the team.”

• Melanie Staunton (Belmont, VIC) –Wildcard Selection

A standout from Victoria, Melanie Staunton will make her ISA World Championships debut in 2025. With

a reputation for blending grace with power, Staunton aims to push her skills to new heights against a strong international feld.

• Archy Bemrose (Kingscliff, NSW) –Wildcard Selection

Injecting youthful fair into the squad, rising star Archy Bemrose is ready to make his mark. Known for his fuid style and innovative maneuvers, Bemrose’s enthusiasm and talent promise to be a dynamic addition to the Australian effort.

A Stage for the World’s Best

The ISA World Longboard Championships is the pinnacle of international longboarding, attracting the fnest surfers from around the globe.

Australia boasts a proud history of success at this event, and this year’s Irukandjis team is determined to add another chapter to that

legacy.

Surf City’s famed El Sunzal point break offers long, peeling righthanders — the perfect canvas for the world’s premier longboarders to showcase their traditional and progressive styles. Help the Irukandjis on Their Journey

To support the team’s campaign in El Salvador, Surfng Australia has launched a fundraising initiative. Donations will assist with travel, accommodation, and competition costs, ensuring Australia’s top longboarders can focus fully on bringing home gold.

Fans can contribute directly via Surfng Australia’s offcial fundraising page [link]. Stay Connected Follow Surfng Australia’s offcial

channels for exclusive team updates, behindthe-scenes content, and athlete insights as The Irukandjis take on the world at the 2025 ISA World Longboard Championships. Fans can contribute directly via Surfng Australia’s offcial

fundraising page. Scan the QR code below.

ROBERT ALTMAN