The Northern Rivers Times News Edition 263 by The Northern Rivers Times

Relocatable homes snapped up

By Samantha Elley

Hotcakes had nothing on the relocatable homes that were all snapped up at auction on July 8 at the Lismore Heights Sports Club.

Thes are all homes that have been purchased through the Resilient Homes program.

Wal Murray real estate agent, Benjamin Conte said there was certainly plenty of interest on the night.

“There were many buyers registered to bid and multiple bids on all the homes,” he said.

“There were people who missed out; plenty who didn’t get a home that night.”

Ben said the prices the houses were

bought at were very reasonable.

In a media release, Minister for Recovery, Janelle Safn said buyers have been paying between $347 and 101,000 for the houses so far.

“By auctioning these houses, we are helping save historic homes impacted by the foods and making a small but meaningful contribution to the housing challenges we face in the Northern Rivers,” said Ms Safn.

“This innovative program is a creative way of keeping these houses in the community.”

Ben said there was a great mixture of people on the night of the auction in Lismore.

“There were those who had a single block, others who wanted dual occupancy on their farm: frst

home buyers to investors,” he said.

“Most people were local from the Northern Rivers area.”

With the many houses that have been bought back, Ben said he is waiting for instructions from the Reconstruction Authority for further auctions.

“There is plenty of interest,” he said.

“I have a received an email every day this week asking about them.”

Further north, an auction will be held at Murwillumbah Services Club on 12th August for nine relocatable homes from the Burringbar and South Murwillumbah areas, with no reserve.

These can be viewed at www. fnmurwillumbah.com.au/pages/realestate/relocatable-homes

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Bladders Rejoice! New Toilet Block Opens in East Lismore

By Samantha Elley

Bladders all over East Lismore and especially in the vicinity of Wade Park, rejoice!

A new toilet block has been ofcially opened at a cost of $520,000 and as phase one of the masterplan for the recreational area.

The project was jointly funded by the Federal and State governments under the Public Amenities Resilience Upgrades program.

“This is one of the many facilities we are starting to upgrade,” said Lismore councillor, Gianpiero Battista.

“There are 23 in the works so hopefully we will see more toilets.”

The facilities are bookended by two sheltered picnic areas where there are 10 unisex toilets, including ambulant and wheelchair accessible cubicles.

“It is three levels of government working together,” said Lismore MP, Janelle Safn.

“You can never have too many toilets and you particularly need them around areas where you’ve got families and kids and (now) centrally located.

“I say good on Lismore City Council for coming out with this master plan for upgrading these amenities.”

Project Manager, Mick Furchtman of Bennett Constructions said the new toilet block has been moved closer to the play area and on higher ground.

“These are a modular building from a company called Modus,” he said.

“They are a prefab building that are low maintenance and everything is food resilient and user friendly.

“There are public areas undercover and well-lit.”

Future plans for Wade Park include barbeque facilities, sensory play areas, multi-purpose sports courts and a designated fenced dog exercise area.

Master plan for Wade Park

Lismore councillor, Gianpiero Battista, Lismore State MP, Janelle Safn and Bennett Construction project manager, Mick Furchtman.

Yamba mega subdivision back in court

By Tim Howard

The long-running battle over a controversial proposal to build a 285-lot community title subdivision in central Yamba is set to come to a head next month, with the matter now listed for a four-day hearing in the Land and Environment Court.

Clarence Valley Council is defending proceedings brought by Garrard Building Pty Ltd, which is appealing the Northern Regional Planning Panel’s (NRPP) refusal of the development application for 52–54 Miles Street, Yamba—a site surrounded by existing homes and located near bushland and waterways.

The appeal, lodged onJuly 30 2024, will be heard from August 5-8, beginning with an on-site inspection and hearing in Yamba, before continuing in Maclean and then at the Land and Environment Court in

Sydney.

Residents who made submissions opposing the original or amended development application have now been contacted by solicitors acting for Clarence Valley Council, inviting them to register their interest in speaking at the on-site hearing.

The Court will hear

on-site evidence from a limited number of local residents during the morning of Tuesday, August 5, when the hearing opens at the development site at 52–54 Miles Street.

The court has advised that a maximum of six residents will be permitted to speak on-

site, with preference given to those most directly afected—such as people living next to or opposite the development.

One or more residents may also be selected to speak on behalf of the broader community on issues such as neighbourhood character and trafc concerns.

Interested residents must contact Alicia Foley from Marsdens Law Group (the Council’s legal representatives) by July 28 to register.

Ms Foley can be reached on (02) 4640 3618 or via email at afoley@ marsdens.net.au.

All previously submitted written objections will be forwarded to the Court, whether or not the resident chooses to speak at the hearing.

Garrard Building’s development application was frst lodged with Council in January 2023, proposing the demolition of existing buildings, vegetation clearing, and extensive subdivision and infrastructure works.

The original proposal was put on public exhibition in late 2023 and drew signifcant community opposition.

In June 2024, the NRPP formally refused the application, citing planning concerns. The developer subsequently

Jüñglë Rügs

fled an appeal in the Land and Environment Court.

In February 2025, a court-ordered conciliation conference failed to resolve the matter. The applicant was later granted permission to submit amended plans, which were re-exhibited from May 2 to June 2. Council continues to defend the refusal and maintains that the development is inappropriate for the site. The hearing schedule is:

• August 5: (10:30am) –On-site inspection and hearing at 52–54 Miles Street, Yamba.

• August 5: (afternoon) –Continuation at Maclean Local Court.

• August 6-8: – Hearing resumes at the Land and Environment Court, Sydney.

Residents and interested parties are welcome to attend any part of the public hearing, although only registered speakers will be heard on-site.

A crowd of Yamba residents gather near the site of the controversial Miles St DA in West Yamba in February to listen to residents speak at a NSW Land and Environment Court conciliation hearing.

Jockey club corrects Wards Mistake oversight

By Tim Howard

The Clarence River Jockey Club has fnally given one of the Clarence Valley’s greatest racing fairytales the honour it deserves.

More than four decades after local galloper Wards Mistake stunned punters by winning the 1983 Grafton Cup at 66-1, the club has renamed a staying race in his honour. The Barastoc Wards Mistake Rural Plate (C6 Showcase 2200m), run on Ramornie Handicap Day this year, marked the frst ofcial recognition of one of the carnival’s most beloved longshots.

Jockey Club executive ofcer Michael Beattie said the club had long recognised the achievements of successful horses across the July Carnival, including 1984 Cup winner Riverdale, 2000 Ramornie Handicap

winner Mother’s Gift, and inaugural Kosciuszko winner Belfyer.

“This year the CRJC is proud to commemorate the 1983 Grafton Cup win of Wards Mistake by naming the staying race on Ramornie Day in his honour,” Beattie said. “It’s a good racing yarn.”

And what a yarn it is.

Beattie recounted how Wards Mistake, an unremarkably bred colt by the New Zealand stallion Sea Wolf out of the mare Idle Game, had been passed in at a Glen Innes sale in 1979 before catching the eye of local owner Mick Moy.

Moy was warned the horse would take time and require patience—and plenty of it.

Along with co-owner Kevin Mulligan, he sent the rangy youngster to Grafton trainer Bob Gosling, who took his

time, only debuting the horse midway through his three-year-old season.

By July 1981, Wards Mistake had won two races. A year later, he was up to open company, and by 1983, had nine wins to his name.

Despite that record, he started at 50-1 in the betting ring—some said even longer—after running ffth in the Cup Prelude the week before.

But Gosling believed in his horse, and so did jockey John Hutchings.

It turned out to be one of the most memorable rides of Hutchings’ career.

Settling midfeld on the fence, Hutchings bided his time before easing Wards Mistake into the clear at the top of the straight and driving him home with trademark strength.

The gelding hit the front in the shadows of the post, bringing to an end a 31-

year drought for hometown horses in the Grafton Cup.

“It was just another race,” Hutchings said with a grin at last week’s ceremony, brushing of the accolades with typical humility. “I did win a Ramornie as well.”

Despite his laid-back demeanour, Hutchings— widely regarded as one of the best riders ever to come out of the bush— remembered the win fondly.

“I thought he was in it. He’d been travelling well and when I asked him to go, he had plenty to give,” he said.

Greg and Lindy Moy, son and daughter-in-law of owner Mick Moy, were trackside that day and recalled the emotion of watching the outsider storm to victory.

“It was a brilliant ride,” Lindy said. “He took of at the top of the straight

and went straight down the middle of the track. He pulled them all in right on the line. And we got 66-1 when we backed him.”

Though Wards Mistake never won another Grafton Cup, he continued to perform well, picking up wins at Randwick and in the 1985 Cofs Harbour Cup.

Sadly, a career-ending injury at Eagle Farm later that year brought the curtain down on a

remarkable journey. Last week’s ceremony on Ramornie Day brought together members of the extended Moy Mulligan and Gosling families, including Greg and Lindy Moy, as well as Hutchings himself, to fnally celebrate a moment that has lived long in the memories of Clarence racing fans. A fairytale that came true, and now, fnally, has its rightful place in the history books.

The 1983 Grafton Cup presentation: Holding the Cup is Mick Moy. Part owner Keith Mulligan, left, John Hutchings and trainer Bob Gosling.

Members of the Moy, Gosling, Mulligan and Hutchings families, whose connections owned, trained and rode Wards Mistake gathered on Ramornie Day for the naming of the inaugural race in the horse’s honour.

One of the best jockeys the bush has produced, Grafton’s John Hutchings rode Wards Mistake to glory at Grafton in 1983.

Marital bliss outbreak after Ramornie win

By Tim Howard

Sha Of Gomer’s win in the 2025 Ramornie Handicap sparked an outbreak of marital bliss at the Grafton track.

Trained by Jef Dunn and ridden to perfection by his wife Rikki Jamieson, you couldn’t help but notice the sparks fying between the pair at the race’s conclusion.

Dunn, who spoke after the race about his unusual transition from training people to horses, was ecstatic at the result and the circumstances behind it.

“This would have been great for me but I will never surpass this in my career now because Rikki was on,” Dunn said trackside.

Dunn’s equine journey from show-ring stunt rider to stakes-winning racehorse trainer peaked in Grafton last Wednesday.

A former Australian Outback Spectacular performer he has been training a small team in recent seasons, and the Ramornie win delivered his frst black-type

success.

Jamieson’s ride was a study in patience.

Sha Of Gomer ($10) got in behind the leaders, but in the straight used his astonishing turn of foot to put 1-1/4 lengths on Compelling Truth ($4 betting fav), with Barber ($6) half a length back in third.

“He has an amazing 250m burst in him, but he’s able to travel quite quickly on speed,” Jamieson said.

“I knew he had that burst in him and I had to time it just right.”

Although he thought Sha Of Gomer was in the right spot for most of the race Dunn kept his emotions in check until the fnish line.

“I’ve had a few early crow moments in my time and I didn’t want to do that in a big race,” he said.

“The way he was travelling leading into the corner, I was getting up out of my seat.

“Halfway down the straight I stood a bit taller and by the winning post I was jumping up and down.”

The Grafton win helped make up for a

frustrating near miss in the Listed Eye Liner Stakes (1350m) at Ipswich two starts earlier. Dunn says that defeat—early in the horse’s time with the stable—proved educational.

“Having that run taught us a lot about the horse and how long his turn of foot lasts,” Dunn said

“Had we not had that run we might not have been able to win the last two.”

Jamieson, who said her career in the saddle could

be nearing its end, said the win was big one for her.

“Doing it with Jef makes it better for me,” Jamieson said.

“I’ve had a bit of a career myself and he is just beginning,” she said.

“He just needs a few more decent horses to pick him up because he trains so well and we work really well as a team.”

Sha Of Gomer’s record since joining Dunn in April now reads three wins from six starts—and two on the trot.

•

A partnership made for business

The delight on the faces of husband and wife team Rikkie Jamieson and Jef Dunn at winning the 2025 Ramornie Handicap was impossible conceal.

Sha Of Gomer puts his outstanding fnishing speed to good use, winning the 2025 Ramornie Handicap at Grafton last week.

Style never out of fashion

By Tim Howard

The winner of the 2025 Purple Pearls Grafton Cup Day Fashions of the Field Angela Carroll showed that style never goes out of fashion.

Ms Carroll, no stranger

to Fashion on the Fields judges, said she had pulled a fve-year-old Rebecca Vallance outft from her wardrobe and paired it with an Eve Till Dawn hat.

She had been undecided about entering the contest

this year, but decided on the day it was worth a shot.

The judges agreed and said Ms Carroll had won from a feld that had closely followed the competition guidelines.

Competition convenor

Michelle Page said the winter appropriate garments with suitable tonal colours of oranges, greens and purples had been prominent.

“The attention to detail was the best we’ve seen for quite some time,” she said.

Cheaper Home Batteries Program Launches July 1, 2025

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

Key Highlights:

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

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

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

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

Why Act Now?

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

How SAE Group Makes It Easy

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

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

• Expert Advice: We match you with the right system to maximise your savings.

• Access All Incentives: We ensure you beneft from both federal and state-level support.

* Please note that the terms and conditions of the ‘Cheaper Homes Battery Scheme’ are forthcoming, and all information provided is preliminary and subject to ofﬁcial ﬁnalization. Contact us for more information.

Last years event winner, Amie Want, was the runner-up.

In the Connor Best Dressed Gent feld recently arrived Queenslander Jake McIntosh took out the top

gong.

Fittingly Mr McIntosh, who said he only recently moved to the region, chose a Connor suit, which he described as a “simple but nice” outft. He said he and friends and family were looking forward to celebrating his win at the Village Green Hotel that night.

The runner-up was another Queenslander, Paul Johnston.

Earlier Mr Johnston had teamed with wife Catherine in the Village Green Hotel Best Dressed Couple award, where they were the runners-up.

Coopernook pair Len Richards and Carmel Ward took out the Best Dress Couple Award.

In the Elm Colour Your Lifestyle Millinery award

Casino’s Jordyn Cartmill’s stunning and colourful foral arrangement caught the judges’ eye.

The runner-up was Grafton’s Amanda Thorley with a pillbox hat and brooch combination.

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

Lawrence’s Amie Want took out the runners-up award in the 2025 Fashions on the Field Award.

Casino’s Jordyn Cartmill’s stunning headwear earned her the Fashions on the Field Best Millinery Award for 2025.

Grafton woman Amanda Thorley’s combination of a pillbox hat with brooch won her the runners-up award in the Fashions on the Field Millinery section.

Grafton woman Angela Carroll stunned the judges with her chic ensemble of a Rebecca Valance dress and Eve Till Dawn headwear to win the 2025 Fashions on Field Best Dressed Lady award.

Fashions on the Field Best Dressed Gent went to Jake McIntosh, left. Paul Johnston was the runner-up.

The judges rewarded Coopernook’s Carmel Ward and Len Richards’ stunning ensembles naming the pair the Best Dressed Couple in the 2025 Fashions on the Field.

Brisbane couple Paul and Catherine Johnston were judged runners-up in the Village Green Best Dressed Couple award.

Casino girls Jordyn Cartmill and Becky Asquith pulled out all the stops preparing for Fashions on the Field at the this year’s Grafton Cup Day.

Mates from around NSW and interstate Will Shanley, Jesse Broad, David Broad and Charlie Berea catch up at Grafton Cup Day 2025.

Lower River boys Geof Simmons, Nathan Ensbey and Mark Ensbey made the trip up to Grafton to catch the cup day fun.

Work colleagues take some time out to get to the races. Logan Staf, Shannon Kearney, Tora Cavanagh and Dean Degan don their fnest for a day at the track.

There was plenty to celebrate for soon-to-be-married couple, Brendan Cleaver and Aleesha Kearns, centre. In addition to the upcoming wedding, Aleesha was celebrating her birthday. Good friend Jasmine Jollife was helping them party.

Grafton friends Josh McFadyen, Gypsy Eggins, Lilly Green, Rani Anderson and Harry Anderson made a day of it at the Grafton Cup last week.

Rock Scott and Bailey Waugh plus a few mates made sure everyone knew of their love for beer and racing when they kitted up for Grafton Cup day

Grafton couples Dave and Bree Cropper, left, and Tifany and Chris Lambert joined up for a fun day at the Grafton Cup.

Abbigail Smith, Cathie Smith and Arielle Hackett ready for a big day at the Grafton Cup and beyond.

Horse trainer Vanessa McLennan knows her way around horses and was more than willing to jump in to lead a horse around the parade yard, earning her the unofcial title of Best Dressed Strapper of the carnival.

CRCA boss Michael Beattie introduces entertainer Sam Handford to the crowd to sing the National Anthem ahead of the running of the Grafton Cup.

The grand stand crowd waiting to enjoy the running of the Grafton Cup rise to their feet after joining in singing the Grafton Anthem, aka Cold Chisel’s Flame Trees.

Race fans Sarah Kratz, Melissa Kidd, Christine and Lance Chevalley and Debbie Newton on the fence to get a closer look at Cup winner Don Diego De Vega.

Millie Trustum would like a birthday message from Taylor Swift

By Samantha Elley

According to dad, Kevin Trustum, his daughter Millie is one of Taylor Swift’s biggest fans.

“She has been a Taylor Swift fan forever, since she could get up and sing and dance,” he said.

“She sings and dances at home. Gets her boom box out and sings in the paddock and they are always Taylor Swift songs.

“The pinnacle came when she went to the Taylor Swift concert in 2018.”

In actual fact, if heroism were to be measured, Ms Swift should be Millie’s biggest fan.

The nearly14-yearoldhad to battleLymphoma cancerin 2018,then after being cancer free for six years and raising funds for children’s cancer, found out in June that she now has a high grade glioma, an aggressive brain cancer with no cure.

“She has had some nodules come back below where the original tumour was,” her parents wrote on Little Trusty’s Big Journey” Facebook page.

“This suggests that it’s very aggressive.”

Millie has started another course of radiation, but it has been heartbreaking for the family to realise, rather than cure the cancer, it will only prolong Millie’s life, hopefully, by years.

As a way of making the moments in Millie’s life count, they have started a Gofundme account and devised a bucket list which is slowly being ticked of.

“The community has

been really supportive and providing to the Gofundme account,” said Kevin. “Her page followers, the soccer club, the show society are really keen to support her and the amount of businesses that have reached out.”

So far,Millie has gone for a helicopter fight over Byron Bay, gone for a spin in a highway patrol car, underlights but not in handcufs, had a driving lesson around the farm and met players from her favourite team, South Sydney Rabbitohs.

She is continuing to tick of items from her bucket list.

To help Millie with her radiation treatment, the nurses have painted her mask pink and made it Taylor Swift themed and also played her music during the treatment.

Now as Millie’s birthday draws near, her parents are depending on social media to help with getting a message to Taylor Swift to ask her to send the young Tatham resident a birthday wish.

So, if any reader has contacts with Taylor herself or someone who knows someone, please send them Millie’s story and help make her 14th birthday an event to never forget.

“She will be having a daytime party and a nighttime bonfre,” said Kevin, “With family and friends coming around.

“And hopefully we will do the same again next year.”

To donate to the Gofundme account the link is www.gofundme. com/f/help-millie-makeevery-moment-count

Helping Locals Stay Connected: Technology & Lifestyle

Concierge Supporting Seniors with Everyday Technology

As the digital world becomes more embedded in daily life, a local service is helping older Australians and people living with disabilities bridge the gap and stay connected, independent, and confdent at home.

The Technology & Lifestyle Concierge (TLC) service, developed by Ballina-based Pindan Health Solutions and available for funding through Home Care Packages, is a practical and personalised service designed to support clients in using technology in their homes to improve their quality of life. It offers tailored assistance with everything from setting up smart home devices, email set up, tech troubleshooting, and accessing online services to stay in touch with loved ones via video

calls and social media.

At its core, the Technology & Lifestyle Concierge aims to reduce digital exclusion while enhancing independence and social connection - two critical elements of ageing well.

TLC Coordinator Rebecca Hourigan says the service meets a growing need among seniors who want to engage with modern technology but often don’t know where to begin - or feel like they’ve left it too late.

“One of the most common things we hear is, ‘I’m too old for this’,” Rebecca says. “But with one-onone guidance and encouragement, clients quickly discover they’re more than capable. TLC breaks down the barriers and shows people they’re never too old to be part of today’s connect-

ed world.”

She adds, “Many of our clients already have the tools such as smartphones, tablets, and Wi-Fi but haven’t had the support to use them with confdence. TLC is about walking alongside them, understanding their goals, and making technology feel useful, not overwhelming. It is about making technology work for them.”

Delivered by trained staff with experience across aged care, disability support, and I.T, the TLC service is available in-home or remotely and is fully customisable. Clients can use their existing devices or be guided to explore new tools that support safety, wellness, and everyday life. Assistance includes help navigating MyGov and My Aged Care, setting up

video calls or entertainment streaming, connecting hearing aids and smart devices, installing reminders and safety alerts, and accessing tele

spaces.

Tom Hogan, a 79-yearold Home Care Package recipient from Ballina, has been using the TLC service to help him feel more connected and capable in his home environment.

health platforms to name but a few. Importantly, the service also supports mental stimulation and social wellbeing by encouraging access to online hobbies, games, music, and virtual community

Through the service, he’s now able to listen to the music he loves online, connect with his grandchildren in France and Ireland via FaceTime, and manage appointments using a digital calendar.

According to Rebecca, stories like Tom’s are becoming increasingly common.

“We’re seeing clients gain more confdence, independence, and joy in their daily lives simply because they’re being supported to use technology in a meaningful way,” she says. “It’s

not about teaching IT skills in the traditional sense - it’s about using simple tools to support real-life goals.”

The Technology & Lifestyle Concierge is designed to adapt as needs change and is fully fundable through Home Care Packages or can be booked directly.

As the home care sector continues to evolve, services like TLC represent a shift towards holistic, person-centred care that goes beyond traditional clinical models. In an age where technology touches every part of life, ensuring older Australians aren’t left behind is more important than ever.

Five-day format proves a winner at July Racing Carnival

By Tim Howard

In a racing landscape increasingly geared towards short, sharp feature days, Clarence River Jockey Club continues to buck the

trend—and the numbers suggest it’s paying of. CRJC executive ofcer Michael Beattie said the 2025 July Racing Carnival, one of the few fve-day carnivals left in the country, drew more than 10,000 patrons

across the week, with strong felds and a vibrant atmosphere from Prelude Day through to the Maclean Cup.

“There’s always someone asking me whether the fve-day model is still the right way to go,” Beattie said.

“But the proof is in the pudding—people are coming, the racing is high quality, and we’re seeing engagement right through to the fnal day.”

Ramornie Day crowds were up slightly, Grafton Cup Day dipped marginally, but the overall attendance was up compared to last year.

Field sizes were strong throughout, with 435 runners contesting 39 races.

“That’s bang on target for us,” Beattie said. “We usually sit between 38 and 40 races and this year’s numbers were very solid.”

Importantly, the carnival

maintained its momentum across all fve days, with Prelude Day delivering winners who returned to compete strongly in the marquee events.

“It’s a great barometer,” said Beattie. “It shows we’re getting our programming right. And we had big felds on the fnal day for the Maclean Cup, which tells us people are still keen right to the end.”

In fact, Maclean Cup Day proved a quiet triumph.

Not only was the crowd up year-on-year, but on-course bookmakers reported their highest turnover for the meeting in fve years.

“That’s a strong sign,” Beattie said. “There’s still enthusiasm, still a willingness to have a punt, still good racing.”

Beattie attributed part of the success to subtle but efective operational tweaks.

“We improved food and beverage delivery this year—less queuing, quicker service—and kept adding more seating. These things seem small, but they make a big diference to the experience.”

The decision to include the Cold Chisel song Flame Trees, written by Don Walker and set in Grafton, was another ideas that went down well with the crowed on Cup Day.

“That’s something we’ll build on. One day I hope we’ll have a grandstand full of people singing along,” Beattie said.

One of the most heartwarming moments of the week came with the longoverdue recognition of Ward’s Mistake, the 1983 Grafton Cup winner and a true local legend.

A special ceremony on Ramornie Day reunited families of the horse’s connections, many of

whom travelled long distances to attend.

“I don’t know whether to pat ourselves on the back or give ourselves an uppercut,” Beattie said.

“It should have happened sooner, but I’m proud we’ve fnally put it right. Ward’s Mistake is now entrenched in Grafton racing folklore.”

As the dust settles, Beattie admits there’s little time to rest.

Planning for the 2026 carnival will begin in weeks.

“We’ll have a debrief, but we’re already thinking about what’s next,” he said. I’m very pleased with how this year went—it felt like a real event from start to fnish.”

For the CRJC the challenge now is not just to maintain the fve-day format—but to keep refning and elevating it. On this year’s showing, they’re well on track.

Tight fnishes in the feature races made the quality of the racing a feature for this year's July Racing Carnival.

Drama in the Cup opens door for import

By Tim Howard

A dramatic late scratching changed the shape of this year’s Westlawn Finance Grafton Cup (2350m) — and opened the door for a French import to claim his frst Australian win.

Race favourite Bear On the Loose was withdrawn at the gates after getting his leg over the barrier, prompting stewards to act on veterinary advice just minutes before the start.

With the Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott-trained galloper expected to be a key on-pace runner, his absence forced an in-themoment strategy shift from jockey Zac Lloyd aboard Don Diego De Vega.

“The plan changed in the barriers when Bear On The Loose got scratched,” Lloyd said.

“He was one of the speed runners in the race. I made my mind up in the gates.”

Confdent in the gelding’s condition, Lloyd took early control of the race.

“He was very well prerace and going to the gates he was full of energy, so I was confdent he was going to begin well.

“Once he did that, it really made my job pretty easy. I crossed the runners to my inside and we got a lovely run.”

Sent out a $4.60 equal favourite, Don Diego De Vega settled just behind

leader Quietness ($4.60), who looked a strong chance before wobbling badly in the straight.

That wayward run opened the door for Lloyd to sneak up on the inside and drive his mount to a three-quarter length win.

Zoology ($15) ran on for third, another length behind.

It marked the frst Australian win for Don Diego De Vega, a former French galloper raced by the Australian Bloodstock syndicate and trained by Annabel and Rob Archibald.

Part-owner Brendan Nelson admitted the good surface had been a concern for connections.

“We were a little bit uncertain with this surface today. He really likes to get his toe in, but he just came out and did a brilliant job,” Nelson said.

“He hasn’t shown us

everything yet, but we can’t wait to see where this takes him. Fingers crossed we’ll see him later in the year.”

The win was a frst Grafton Cup victory for both the Archibalds and

Lloyd — a homecoming of sorts for the in-form jockey.

“I started my career here with Toby and Trent (Edmonds), so it’s good to come back and win the Cup,” Lloyd said.

Grafton Cup winning jockey Zac Lloyd received his trophy from Westlawn’s Andrew Hayes. Lloyds quick thinking after the scratching of race favourite Bear On The Loose was decisive in the race.

The grey Don Diego De Vega has won the 2025 Westlawn Finance Grafton Cup (2350m).

Relocatable homes snapped up

By Samantha Elley

Hotcakes had nothing on the relocatable homes that were all snapped up at auction on July 8 at the Lismore Heights Sports Club.

Thes are all homes that have been purchased through the Resilient Homes program.

Wal Murray real estate agent, Benjamin Conte said

there was certainly plenty of interest on the night.

“There were many buyers registered to bid and multiple bids on all the homes,” he said.

“There were people who missed out; plenty who didn’t get a home that night.”

Ben said the prices the houses were bought at were very reasonable.

In a media release, Minister for Recovery, Janelle Safn said buyers have been paying between $347 and 101,000 for the houses so far.

“By auctioning these houses, we are helping save historic homes impacted by the foods and making a small but meaningful contribution to the housing challenges we face in the

buyers to investors,” he said.

“This innovative program is a creative way of keeping these houses in the community.”

Ben said there was a great mixture of people on the night of the auction in Lismore.

“There were those who had a single block, others who wanted dual occupancy on their farm: frst home

“Most people were local from the Northern Rivers area.”

With the many houses that have been bought back, Ben said he is waiting for instructions from the Reconstruction Authority for further auctions.

“There is plenty of interest,” he said.

“I have a received an

email every day this week asking about them.”

Further north, an auction will be held at Murwillumbah Services Club on 12th August for nine relocatable homes from the Burringbar and South Murwillumbah areas, with no reserve.

These can be viewed at www.fnmurwillumbah. com.au/pages/real-estate/ relocatable-homes

Northern Rivers Mustangs Support Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service

The Northern Rivers Mustangs proudly donated $500 to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service in recognition of their outstanding eforts in protecting and assisting people across the region. The donation was presented on Sunday, 13th July, with John Bancroft from the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service gratefully accepting

the contribution. The Mustangs, sponsored by the Charcoal Inn Hotel in Casino, are committed to giving back to vital community services.

This gesture highlights the strong community spirit and appreciation for the life-saving work carried out by the helicopter service every day.

A big thank you to all involved!

Northern Rivers,” said Ms Safn.

Bores Boost Village Resilience in Tenterfield Shire

Four villages to beneft from bushfre and drought resilience project

Tenterfeld Shire’s rural villages of Legume, Liston, Drake and Torrington are receiving a major boost to their disaster preparedness, with four new bores nearing completion under a $960,000 project jointly funded by the NSW and Australian governments

The initiative, aimed at strengthening frefghting capability and ensuring water access for livestock, is part of a broader push to enhance rural resilience in the wake of the Black Summer bushfres and ongoing drought conditions

Legume and Liston bores completed

At a recent media event in Legume, Lismore MP and NSW Minister for Recovery Janelle Safn praised the progress made on the project. The

Legume and Liston bores are now operational, with Drake’s bore nearing completion and drilling ongoing in Torrington to reach the appropriate depth.

“This is a critical step toward securing a sustainable water supply for these communities,”

Ms Safn said. “It will help them better prepare for and respond to future disasters.”

She acknowledged the challenges the region

Resilient Lismore Launches Online Tool Library to Empower the Community

Lismore residents can now access tools with ease thanks to Resilient Lismore’s new online Tool Library system, designed to support home repairs, gardening, cleanups, and community projects—all at no cost

The community-led initiative has been an invaluable resource since the 2022 foods, and now it’s more accessible than ever with a digital upgrade that allows locals to browse, check availability, and reserve tools in advance Tools, Skills, and Support—All for Free

“The Tool Library includes a huge range of useful gear like drills, sanders, lawn mowers, and ladders,” said Celine Massa, project coordinator at Resilient Lismore. “It’s designed to help people with DIY home repairs, gardening, and community clean-up eforts. And it’s not just about borrowing tools—it’s

about building confdence and connections in the community.”

Since its launch in 2022, the Tool Library has seen over 2,800 individual loans, and Resilient Lismore has also hosted more than 20 hands-on workshops, providing training to over 200 locals . These sessions have not only built skills but have played a crucial role in post-disaster recovery eforts.

“We know that having access to the Tool Library has made it possible for people afected by the foods to do work they otherwise couldn’t aford,” Ms Massa added. “Now with our new online system, it’s even easier for people to plan their jobs.”

How the New System Works

Residents can visit www. resilientlismore.org/toollibrary to:

•Browse the entire collection of tools

•Check what’s available in real time

Manager Hein Basson, and all councillors and staf involved.

“The Council’s commitment has ensured lasting benefts for Legume, Liston, Drake and Torrington,” she said.

She also thanked NSW Minister for Regional NSW and Agriculture Tara Moriarty MLC for approving a variation that will allow the project to be fnalised by 30 September

has faced in recent years, particularly during the 2019–2020 bushfres, and noted how a reliable water source is vital for both emergency response and daily rural life.

Strong local leadership recognised

Ms Safn extended her congratulations to Tenterfeld Shire Council, including Mayor Cr Bronwyn Petrie, General

Part of broader recovery strategy

The project was funded under the Bushfre Local Economic Recovery (BLER) Fund, which supports communitydriven initiatives aimed at building resilience after the Black Summer fres. Ms Safn said she strongly supported the project during the BLER assessment process and was pleased to see tangible results now being delivered on the ground.

•Reserve items in advance

•Read simple guides on how the system works

•Find answers to common questions

While tool hire remains free, a refundable cash deposit may be required for larger items like trailers. Item-specifc details are listed on each booking page.

Visit or Get

Involved

Resilient Lismore’s Community Recovery

and Resilience Hub is open Wednesday to Friday from 10am–2pm , located at 215 Keen Street, Lismore. Locals are welcome to stop by for assistance, workshop information, or to get help using the online system.

The Tool Library is more than just a lending service—it’s part of a larger vision to help rebuild a stronger, more self-sufcient Lismore , one tool and one skill at a time.

The yarns and stories continue in the outback

Title: The Tale Gets

Longer

Author: John (Jack)

Alexander

Price: $26.25

Distributor: Booktopia

By Samantha Elley

A little while ago I reviewed A Lie in the Tale, a story about a young Melbourne man heading to Queensland to fnd work as a jackaroo.

The story ended on somewhat of a romantic clif hanger so John Alexander has been busy in providing readers with the follow up story. He is still in rural Australia in the 1960s but he has moved on to save his pennies for an impending marriage. With his natural way of

spinning a tale, John, also known as Jack, will weave you, the reader, into the funny and sad events of his life. What happens when he turns up to a place of work with no toilets? Did he make the right move going back to Melbourne? Where does Jack end up and who with?

Either way, you won’t want to put the book down until you are fnished.

To order your copies of both A Lie in the Tale and The Tale gets Longer go to booktopia. com.au. Also keep an eye out for the fnal book in this autobiographical trilogy, The Tale Comes to an End, out by the end of the year.

Robert Heyward

left to right; Councillor Greg Purcell, Councillor Tim Bonner, Tenterfeld Shire Mayor Councillor Bronwyn Petrie, GIllian Marchant

Manager Water & Waste and Hein Basson – Tenterfeld Shire General Manager

VIEW LEEMOS

“Leemo has views on just about anything”

COUSIN MAVIS “IS” FAMILY

As anastute feline, I have a highly developed sense of ‘stuf about to happen’ – like in that movie ‘The Sixth Sense’. As per my enviable &astonishing intuition, IT DID! (‘Leemo Cat’ here!) It was a grumble shout from ‘Mum Jane’: ‘Leemo, I overheard you & the buddies talking just now? WHO is ‘Cousin Mavis’& WHY is she coming to visit, AND, WHO invited her pray tell?’ Mybuddie ‘Treasure’addressed Mum soothingly. ‘It’s OK ‘Mum Jane’, ‘Cousin Mavis is a long lost very distant relative of Leemoand is even as old as you are;Cuz Mavis lives far out in the West&has badly arthritic pawsies. So, her local Feline Fractitioner(FP) referred her to a Paw Specialist in Lismore; that’s why she’s visiting: we ALL invited her to join us for treats and lemonade on our front soft grassy area before she had to leave again.’ (Mum’s face looked mistrustfully scepticalon hearing what ‘I’ I fgured was a plausible explanationfrom ‘Treasure’)Mum continued. ‘Leems, I vividly remember, you HAD a FAMILY REUNION April 15th 2021with your Siblings ‘Braco’, ‘Sharleen’, ‘Fortescue’, ‘Audrey’, ‘Kagemusha’& ‘Maisy. IT TURNED INTO A DEBACLE remember?

Police attended;SO, I am compelled to enquire:isCousin Mavis like the rest of your family? IF SO, I’M not feeling particularly at ease about her visit.’ Hmmm! I had to consider Mum’s comment. More hmmms& serious pondering. Lightbulb moment!!Suckup time!! Using my bestest

Letters to the Editor

Have your say in The Northern Rivers Times!

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

Send your letters to:

Jeff Gibbs letters@heartlandmedia. com.au

Deadline: Fridays at noon

loving voice I spoke to Mum whilst fxating her with a meaningful gaze from my magnifcent green eyes. ‘Mum, like you, Cuz Mavis is ageing. BUT,she lives in a tunnel with a Wombat called Jack for company. She forages for treats & blankies & stuf. SO, KNOWING that underneath all the ‘blarney’ & crabbiness you sometimes exhibit there is actually muchkindness in you; I therefore KNEW you would not mind her visiting&you would welcome her happily with open arms from her paws. Am I correct in what I just said? Well Mum?Eeeek! Mum Jane had tears running down the wrinkles from her eyes (like therivers that run into Lake Eyre). ‘OMG Leems, of course Cousin Mavis can visit. I shall make up a snuggly plush blue blankie bed for her so she can stay for a while? What treats does she enjoy? Does she iike ‘Bluey’ on TV?’ CRIKEY,‘Treasure’ & ‘Brutus’ hissed at me? ‘Leems, Cousin Mavis was invited for treats & lemonadeONLY we’d then call her a Cataxi. From the words emanating outtaMum Janeit seemsCousin Mavis is gonna be invited to move in infnitum? FIX IT LEEMS & do it NOW..what about us Buddies? OurSecret Club?’ Ohdear Lord: I HADto speak.‘LISTEN YOU LOT. ‘FAMILY’ is everything. Cuz MavisIS family even if she lives with Jack the Wombat. What does it matter? Whoohoo, Mum gave me approving loving glances& ofered treats + ‘Bluey’ to the Buddies. Nitey with hugs,LeemoCat.xx

uncles, and an entire community mobilised with love and urgency—it was incredibly moving. It’s easy to forget the strength we have when we rally around each other. I hope Darcy knows how much he is valued. Well done to everyone involved. This is the kind of local journalism we need more of.

– Simone B., Yamba

Pantry to Pie – Recipes Are Too Good

community. The demolition left a gaping hole, and seeing people still struggle to access essentials is heartbreaking. We need meaningful investment in these food-hit towns.

– Tania R., Evans Head

The Cover Says It All

My Life Okay, I need to confess something. I made those Rocky Road Ice Cube Tray “pies,” and I’m now addicted. My freezer is stocked, and I hide them from the kids. It’s chaos in a cube—and pure genius. More like this, please!

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

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

Darcy’s Rescue Restored My Faith

What a miraculous story the rescue of Darcy Deefholts turned out to be. Reading Tim Howard’s coverage brought me to tears. The way his family,

That Teriyaki Beef Mince recipe was outrageously funny and delicious. I read it out loud to my husband and we both had tears from laughing. Then we cooked it and had tears again— from the favour! Whoever writes these recipes deserves a raise or a book deal. It’s joyful, practical cooking with just the right amount of sass.

– Laura C., Goonellabah

Lyle Family Feature Was Outstanding

The deep dive into the Lyle family’s Angus operation was exactly what your rural readers appreciate. After all they’ve endured, this year’s draft is a tribute to decades of grit. Loved the clear writing and respect shown to generational farming families.

— Roz T., Bentley

Bring Back Our Woodburn Supermarket

The article on Woodburn’s lack of a supermarket really hit home. I grew up there and know frsthand how vital the IGA was. It wasn’t just about groceries—it was

The All Breeds Sale cover was pure excellence. It told the story in one powerful image — strength, endurance, and rural pride. It wasn’t just visually appealing, it was emotionally spot-on. Whoever selected that photo deserves a pay rise. A perfect match for one of the best editions you’ve published all year.

— June L., Lismore

Panthers Pummeled

Rebels – Tough Reading

The Rebels’ loss to Sawtell was tough to read. I appreciate the honest reporting—rugby league isn’t always glory and glamour. Let’s hope for a stronger showing next week. Still, credit to those boys who gave it everything, especially with so many key players out.

– Nikki D., South Grafton

Lismore Lotto Win –

Love a Good News Yarn I absolutely loved the story of the dad winning Lotto after deciding to cook spaghetti bolognese. That’s the kind of wholesome, local feel-good story that puts a smile on everyone’s face. We need more of those in the paper.

– Jules M., Wollongbar

Rocky Road Pie Changed

– Mandy P., Murwillumbah

Clarence Council Should Mediate, Not Bulldoze

The van park saga has gone on long enough. Over 100 cases before NCAT and still the council digs in? It’s time for genuine dialogue, not legal stonewalling. These are people’s homes we’re talking about—not line items on a spreadsheet.

– Tony E., Iluka

Goodbye Harris Cycle Co. – Thank You for the Ride

Reading about the closure of Harris Cycle Co. brought a lump to my throat. That shop was part of Lismore’s heartbeat. Thank you to Darryl and Jo for serving us so well for so long. You deserve every moment of semiretirement.

– Barry K., Goolmangar

Cooking Column Deserves Its Own Show

The writer behind those cooking pages could take over MasterChef and no one would complain. That Butter Chicken Pie recipe had me giggling, and then reaching for puf pastry. Best food writing around—funny, foolproof, and fabulously local.

– Kelly J., Alstonville

Sunshine Sugar CEO a Promising Choice

I was glad to read about Adam Viertel’s appointment to Sunshine Sugar. It sounds like he brings solid industry experience and strategic nous. Let’s hope he keeps things local and fair for our sugarcane communities.

– Ross W., Broadwater

Time to Support Our Clarence Fishers

MP Richie Williamson is right to call out the white spot double standard. Why are we punishing our own fshing families while importing seafood from high-risk countries? The government needs to wake up and back our local industries.

– Beth S., Maclean

Fletcher Street Cottage –Hope in Action

A 15-year licence for Fletcher Street Cottage is a big win for Byron’s vulnerable population. Community support hubs like this are crucial and need long-term security. Kudos to everyone involved. Now let’s get them the funding they need too.

– Damian L., Brunswick Heads

Connect Grants Are a Digital Lifeline

The Regional Tech Hub’s Connect Grants are a brilliant idea. Internet access should be a basic service, not a privilege. I hope community groups across the Northern Rivers jump on this.

– Rachel N., Casino

Still No Supermarket?

That’s a Disgrace

Three years without a supermarket in Woodburn? It’s beyond belief. The town has been abandoned by bureaucracy

and insurers alike. Someone needs to step up, fast.

– Liam F., Coraki

Smart Watering Setup –Perfect Timing

The gardening guide on timer-based watering was timely and informative. With the way summers are trending, efcient water use is more important than ever. I appreciated the local supplier info too— makes it easier to act.

– June M., Bangalow

Rebels Need Reinforcements and Support

It’s hard watching the Rebels struggle, especially with so many injuries. But there’s no shame in a loss when you give it your all. Let’s keep turning up and cheering loud—we’re still proud of you!

– Alex R., Grafton

Highlight on Nurses Is Welcome

Thank you for profling the GradStart nursing intake. It’s heartening to see young people choosing to work in our local health services. They deserve every bit of community support we can ofer.

– Marie T., Kyogle

Cattle Rustling Story

Was Wild

The Wagyu heist story was absolutely wild—cattle, cryogenic tanks, falsifed vet papers? It read like a rural crime novel. Well written, fascinating, and disturbing.

– Leo D., Larnook

Butter Chicken Pie –New Religion

Your butter chicken pie recipe has altered my personality. I now believe in pastry as a form of spiritual enlightenment.

Best thing I’ve cooked all year. Thank you for feeding both body and soul.

– Rita K., Mullumbimby

New Cadillac – Great, But Can I Charge It Here?

The Lyriq looks amazing, but will we have charging stations anytime soon in Nimbin or Uki? Range is great—but charging access still lags behind for many of us.

– Keith H., Uki

Van Residents Deserve Dignity

It’s appalling how council is treating long-term van park residents. These are our neighbours, friends, parents. Mediation should be the frst step, not a courtroom.

– Meredith C., Minnie Water

Please Keep Covering Small Town Sport

I loved the bowls and golf results section. It’s important that our local heroes—whether they’re 80 or 18—get recognised. More of this kind of community coverage, please!

– Peter W., Dunoon

Why No Funding for Maclean Hospital Lift? No lift funding for Maclean Hospital? Seriously? It’s a small ask, yet vital for patients and staf alike. Disappointing to say the least.

– Bev A., Maclean

Kudos to Our Journalists

From the Darcy story to the Wagyu theft and cooking columns, this edition of the Northern Rivers Times was packed with heart, humour and relevance. You’re setting the bar high.

– Glenys F., Bexhill

Congratulations, Alex—A Nurse We’d All Want Hats of to Alex Synott. What an inspiring journey—from a kitchen hand to TAFE NSW Student of the Year in Nursing. His dedication shows how life can pivot beautifully with the right support and perseverance. Lismore Base Hospital is lucky to have him. We need more positive education stories like this in the paper.

– Ruth H., Casino

Loneliness Isn’t Just a City Problem

Thank you for covering the serious issue of social isolation. As someone living alone in an inland village, I can confrm it’s real, and not just for seniors. Regional life has many perks, but connection can be hard to come by. Keep raising awareness— maybe one of those “small steps” you mentioned is reading this and reaching out.

– David F., Drake

Tuntable Hall Needs Locals on Board

It was good to see the callout for the Tuntable Creek Hall committee. These local land manager roles matter more than people realise—if we want our halls, showgrounds and reserves maintained, we need fresh blood and diverse skills. Step up, folks!

– Kerry J., The Channon

Butter Chicken Pie— Now I Understand Love

The butter chicken pie recipe from earlier this month deserves a culinary award. I made it twice this week and even the teens asked for seconds without complaining. That’s what I call magic. I’m ofcially a pastry convert.

– Shona B., Kyogle

Bend it like Becket...

FEW fgures in the entire pantheon of western culture evoke as much interest, and on-going intrigue as the Irish-born literary inverse-icon that was Samuel Beckett.

Having passed away in 1989, the winner of the 1969 Nobel Prize for Literature never shed much light on what drove him to create one of the most profoundly obscure bodies of work in the history of literature. Perhaps it was nothing more than what he himself once said, “To fnd a form that accommodates the mess, that is the task of the artist now.” And perhaps the seemingly illogical, if not nonsensical form that most of his plays, prose and novellas took is the defning, albeit ‘clarifying’ testament or refection of a century that may well defy all attempts at explanation, for as long as historical assessments and overviews of it are made.

Interestingly, the origin of the word ‘obscure’ is derived from the Latin word ‘obscuritas’ which meant ‘dark, dim, indistinct, or unknown’. Fitting then, that Beckett once noted, “To say I stumbled in impenetrable darkness, no, I cannot. I stumbled, but the darkness was not impenetrable. For there, reigned a kind of blue gloom, more sufcient for my visual needs.”

Needs, that saw the world in such a unique way, that the entire world has been trying to ‘play catch up’ ever since.

Having attended the same prestigious public school in Dublin as Oscar Wilde (whose name had been crudely blackened out of the school’s honour board) caused a young Samuel to no doubt refect on

how giftedness, albeit popular acclaim could well be given, and yet so quickly taken back over the brief course of one’s days. Another infuence, if not defning moment of Beckett’s life came in 1938 when he was randomly stabbed in the chest on a street in Paris. This no doubt made the most lasting impression on him in terms of how unpredictably pointless life can be when you fnd yourself in the wrong spot, at the wrong time. As such, the word ‘spectral’ doesn’t even come close to shedding any defnitional light on what was so mercurial about Beckett, both the writer and the reclusive person he remained his entire life. The fact he decided to write in French (instead of his native English) from the age of 39, is testament to the sheer depth, scope and range of his creative potential. As if explaining his unusual capacity for such things, he once said, “Decidedly one is literary all one's life, with great wide ways along which everything rushes away and comes back again, and the crushed calm of the true deep.” A crushed calm, that has been the domain of none bar a very select few in all of history.

To somehow make sense of an essentially senseless century (that included two world wars) by emphasising and plunging headfrst into that senselessness, was what made Beckett the exceptional exception he was. Or as he once discerned, “Ever tried? Ever failed? No matter. Try again. Fail again. Fail better.” Just don’t let the seemingly nonsensical impair, make you despair, or defeat you in any way.

Australian Economic Distrust Stalls Growth Despite Improving Conditions

Jef Gibbs

Roy Morgan data reveals trust defcit fuelling prolonged economic stagnation

Australia has entered the 2026 fscal year weighed down not by infation or joblessness—but by a deep and lingering economic distrust. That’s the key fnding from a newly released Roy Morgan report and webinar featuring CEO Michele Levine and Nine Network’s National Finance Editor Chris Kohler, which warns that a crisis of confdence is impeding national recovery despite encouraging macroeconomic trends.

A Fragile Nation: Distrust Surpasses Trust

According to Roy Morgan’s Risk Monitor, Australians have remained in net distrust territory since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic Before 2020, trust in the economy exceeded distrust. But since then, every institutional setback— policy shifts, rate hikes, political uncertainty, and banking scandals—has chipped away at public sentiment.

“We’ve become a fragile nation,” said Michele Levine. “Distrust is now a structural economic issue. It’s not just a feeling—it afects behaviour and slows economic recovery.”

This erosion of trust is particularly dangerous because it creates a selfreinforcing feedback loop. Households cut discretionary spending, businesses delay investment and hiring, and governments collect less revenue—all of which deepen economic uncertainty.

Consumer Confdence: Three Years in the Red

Perhaps the most striking indicator of the problem is ANZ-Roy Morgan’s Weekly Consumer Confdence Index, which has remained below the 100-neutral mark for over three consecutive years the longest slump since the index began. As of May 2025, it sits at just 87.9

“Even when the RBA lowers rates or infation cools, Australians remain hesitant,” said Levine. “That’s not economics— it’s psychology.”

The emotional weight of ongoing crises—COVID, housing pressures, cost of living spikes—has conditioned Australians to remain cautious, conservative, and sceptical, even in the face of positive news.

Buy-Now-Pay-Later Boom Signals Debt Stress

Another key fnding: Buy-Now-Pay-Later (BNPL) services are surging, not just among younger consumers but across demographic lines.

Roy Morgan data shows: 24.5% of Australians

used BNPL at least once in the 12 months to March 2025

15.9% used it in just the past four weeks

A growing proportion are using BNPL to cover essentials like food, fuel, and utility bills

This trend reveals underlying household fnancial fragility. Many users carry multiple BNPL balances, often incurring higher unsecured debts without any centralised regulation. BNPL may seem like a quick fx but often masks systemic stress

“It’s becoming Australia’s quiet debt crisis,” warned Kohler. “And small businesses are also hurting—BNPL merchant

fees hover around 4%, signifcantly higher than credit card rates.”

With BNPL expanding into broader consumer sectors, it could eventually disrupt the retail economy by infating household debt and eroding resilience.

Economic Green Shoots — With Roots in Distrust

Despite these headwinds, there are signs of recovery: Business confdence is ticking up

Retail spending has modestly improved Infation is under control

Interest rates are easing Unemployment remains low

Still, Australians are not yet feeling the benefts.

“We’re seeing the sprouts

of recovery,” said Kohler. “But they won’t grow without trust. People need to believe in the economy again—to believe that they won’t be blindsided by rising rates, corporate closures, or policy U-turns.”

Roy Morgan argues that economic policies alone can’t revive growth. The psychological landscape people’s trust in leadership, stability, fairness—must improve before recovery becomes sustainable.

What Needs to Happen Next?

The path forward may require:

Transparent communication from banks, governments, and corporations

Stronger consumer protections, especially in fntech and BNPL services

Fairer cost-of-living relief targeted at the most vulnerable Institutional accountability to rebuild reputations Community-level engagement to restore a sense of collective resilience

Without these trustbuilding measures, even the most favourable macroeconomic environment will fail to produce a real, lasting rebound.

Alstonville

Housing Market Stalls as Overblown Hopes Fade

Jef Gibbs

Australia’s housing market has entered a stagnant phase, with rising interest rates, cautious buyers, and infated expectations leaving properties to linger on the market for longer. Analysts now warn that the once-buoyant optimism surrounding the housing recovery has failed to translate into actual sales momentum.

Buyer and Seller Disconnect Grows

After surging back in 2023, property prices across major cities are now fattening, and buyer interest has slowed. Experts blame a widening disconnect between what sellers expect and what buyers are willing to pay , particularly in premium and mid-tier markets.

CoreLogic fgures show that the number of homes sitting unsold for extended periods has risen across Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, with more vendors needing to discount their asking

prices to secure a deal.

“People got ahead of themselves thinking there would be a food of activity this year,” said one leading market analyst. “But the market has cooled, and now we’re seeing more listings accumulate as buyers hesitate.”

Infation and Interest Rate Pressures Weigh In The latest infation fgures and the Reserve Bank’s continued rate hikes have signifcantly impacted buyer confdence. Mortgage costs have climbed sharply since early 2022, eroding borrowing power and stretching household budgets.

This has led many buyers—especially frst-home seekers and investors—to pause their purchasing plans, waiting for clearer signs of market stability or interest rate relief. Meanwhile, sellers are clinging to price expectations that no longer align with the market’s current trajectory.

The result? Homes are staying on the market for longer, auction clearance rates are softening, and price growth is beginning to plateau—even in previously red-hot suburbs.

No Sharp Decline, But No Boom Either Despite the cooling sentiment, experts say

the housing market isn’t headed for a crash. Instead, they predict a fatlining of prices through the second half of 2025, with modest rises or dips depending on location and property type.

“We’re not seeing forced selling or distressed listings in large numbers,” said one economist. “It’s more of a wait-and-see approach, with both buyers and sellers feeling uncertain.”

Regional markets, which saw record growth during the pandemic, are also showing signs of softening. With lifestyle migration slowing and hybrid work patterns stabilising, many regional areas are seeing price stagnation after years of strong gains.

Sellers

Adjusting to Reality

For those trying to sell, the key challenge is pricing appropriately for current conditions. Properties that are priced too ambitiously are being passed in at auction or

left unsold.

“We’re seeing vendors now having to come back to reality,” said a Sydneybased agent. “The market won’t pay a premium anymore. If you want to sell, you need to meet the market.”

Agents are encouraging sellers to be more fexible, highlighting that wellpriced properties with strong fundamentals— such as location, school zones, and transport access—are still selling, albeit at a slower pace.

Spring Unlikely to Spark a Surge Typically, the spring selling season brings renewed momentum to the market. But this year, agents are tempering expectations. The combination of higher borrowing costs, buyer fatigue, and economic uncertainty means spring may not deliver the usual uplift in activity.

Instead, most analysts expect listings to remain elevated while clearance rates hover around average

or below-average levels.

“There’s no shortage of properties being listed,” one agent noted. “But unless vendors are realistic and buyers feel confdent, it’s going to stay sluggish.”

Looking Ahead: Stability or More Softness?

Market watchers say any signifcant improvement will depend on what the Reserve Bank does next . If interest rates hold steady—or even begin to decline in 2026—it could reinvigorate buyer interest.

However, until then, the market is likely to remain subdued. For now, both buyers and sellers are adjusting to a new normal of slower sales, modest growth, and a return to fundamentals

The once-high hopes of a housing boom in 2025 may have faded, but for those willing to play the long game, the current phase ofers an opportunity to reassess, reprice, and reset.

Australian Rents Hit Record Highs Amid Housing Crunch

Jef

Gibbs

Rental prices across Australia have soared to record-breaking levels, with new data revealing that tenants are paying more than ever before— placing enormous pressure on household budgets and deepening the nation’s housing afordability crisis.

According to PropTrack’s June 2025 Rental Report, the national median rent has surged to $600 per week,

marking a $120 increase over the past two years

Capital cities are leading the price rise, with Sydney and Melbourne seeing particularly sharp growth due to strong demand and tight supply.

Capital Cities Driving the Rental Surge

Sydney remains the most expensive city for renters, with the median weekly rent now sitting at $750, followed by Brisbane at $640, and Melbourne at $610. All three cities have seen double-digit

annual increases, with no immediate sign of relief.

The return of international students, high migration levels, and a shortage of rental stock have combined to push rents to unprecedented heights, particularly in inner-city suburbs and high-demand regional hubs.

“Vacancy rates remain near historic lows,” said a PropTrack analyst.

“There’s simply not enough rental housing available to meet current

demand.”

Regional Markets Also Feeling the Pressure

While growth in regional rents has slowed slightly, they too remain elevated. Popular areas in coastal Queensland, regional Victoria, and northern New South Wales continue to see high demand, driving up prices and crowding out locals on modest incomes.

The rental market squeeze is especially tough for low- and middleincome earners, who are

now spending a greater share of their income on housing than ever before.

No Quick Fix in Sight

Experts say the current crisis stems from years of underinvestment in housing supply, rising construction costs, and delays in new developments.

While governments have announced plans to boost housing stock, any meaningful change could still be years away.

Until then, renters face increasing competition for

limited homes and ongoing fnancial pressure. Tenant advocacy groups are calling for rent controls, stronger protections, and accelerated public housing investment to address the urgent need. As the market stands, Australia’s renters are grappling with a new normal of soaring costs, limited options, and tough choices—an issue quickly becoming one of the nation’s most pressing economic and social challenges.

The Ultimate Travel Guide to England

Waking up to the chime of Big Ben, strolling through cobbled villages, and sipping tea in timeless countryside inns—England is a destination where old-world charm meets cutting-edge culture.

Whether you're exploring the winding alleys of York, the lakeside serenity of Windermere, or London’s electric energy, England ofers something for every traveller. From castles and cathedrals to cosy pubs and chic boutiques, this guide will help you uncover the best of England—without draining your wallet.

Top 5 Places to Visit

1. London

The capital is a must-see, with iconic landmarks like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, the British Museum, and West End theatres. Don't miss a walk along the South Bank.

2. Bath

Famed for its Roman-built baths and honey-coloured Georgian architecture, Bath is a UNESCO World

Heritage treasure with stylish shops and relaxing spas.

3. The Lake District

A haven for walkers and poets alike. Enjoy boating on Windermere, hiking Scafell Pike, or admiring Beatrix Potter’s Hill Top farm.

4. Oxford and Cambridge

These historic university cities boast awe-inspiring colleges, punting along rivers, and centuries of academic tradition.

5. Cornwall England’s southern coast dazzles with white-sand beaches, surf-friendly waves, and quaint harbour towns like St Ives and Padstow.

5 Best Deals and How to Save Money

1. National Railcards

Save up to 1/3 on train fares with a railcard.

Options include the Two Together, 16-25, and Senior Railcards.

2. English Heritage Pass

Gain access to castles, ruins, and stately homes at a discount. Especially good for history lovers.

3. Free Museums

Most major museums (like the National Gallery or Science Museum in London) are free. Donations are welcomed but not required.

4. Of-Peak Travel Trains, buses, and accommodations are cheaper during the week and outside holiday periods. Book early online for better deals.

5. Use Supermarkets for Meals

Stores like Tesco and Sainsbury’s ofer meal deals (sandwich, snack, and drink) for under £4—a

big saver on food.

5 Travel Tips

1. Tap Water is Safe England has high-quality tap water, so skip bottled water and carry a reusable bottle.

2. Carry a Contactless Card

Most transport systems accept contactless debit/ credit cards—especially in London’s Tube and buses.

3. Walk When You Can Many towns and cities are pedestrian-friendly and compact, so skip taxis where possible.

4. Mind the Weather

Always pack a lightweight waterproof jacket. English weather can shift in minutes.

5. Tipping Etiquette

Tipping isn’t mandatory, but 10–12% is common in restaurants. Not expected in pubs.

Conclusion

England blends royal history, literary legends, and modern edge into one unforgettable journey. With careful planning and savvy choices, travellers can experience its full charm without overspending. From coastlines to cathedrals, every stop tells a story.

Currency and Budget Considerations

England uses the British Pound (GBP). Credit and debit cards are accepted nearly everywhere.

Daily Budget Estimates:

•Budget: £60–80

•Mid-range: £90–150

•Luxury: £200+

ATMs are widespread, and cashless payments are the norm, especially in cities. Consider a prepaid travel card for managing expenses.

Accommodation: From Luxury to Budget

Luxury

• The Savoy, London (5-star) – World-class service, fne dining, and river views.

• Cliveden House, Berkshire (5-star) – Historic countryside estate with royal connections.

Mid-Range

• Hotel du Vin, York (4-star) – Boutique comfort with local fair.

• The Z Hotel, London (3-star) – Central locations with compact, modern design.

Budget

• YHA Hostels – Clean, secure, and budgetfriendly across the country.

• Premier Inn & Travelodge – Reliable chains ofering afordable rates, even in city centres.

Best Ways to Get Around

• Trains ofer the fastest and most scenic way to travel between cities—book ahead for savings.

• Buses like National Express and Megabus ofer cheap long-distance travel.

• Car Hire is ideal for countryside and coastal exploration.

• London Transport – Use an Oyster or contactless card for the Underground, buses, and Overground services.

Jef Gibbs

ENTERTAINMENT

July 24, 2025

The Fantastic Four: First Steps

Jeff Gibbs

Marvel’s The Fantastic Four: First Steps marks a fresh cinematic reboot of one of the original superhero teams, aiming to revive interest in Reed Richards and co. for a new generation. With a blend of scientifc ambition, action-packed sequences, and emotional confict, the flm tries to reestablish the team’s legacy in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. While visually spectacular and anchored by committed performances, it occasionally stumbles in balancing tone and character development.

Plot Overview

Set largely in New York and a secret desert research base, First Steps introduces us to four brilliant young minds whose lives are changed forever after a teleportation experiment goes awry. Reed Richards (Joseph Quinn), a prodigious scientist obsessed with multidimensional travel, leads the experiment alongside the cautious and pragmatic Sue Storm (Vanessa Kirby). Joining them are Sue’s brother Johnny Storm (Euphoria’s Jacob Elordi), a thrill-

seeking pilot, and Ben Grimm (Paul Walter Hauser), Reed’s loyal childhood friend. The team is transported to Planet Zero, an alternate dimension full of volatile energy. An accident there mutates their DNA, bestowing them with superpowers. Reed becomes the elastic Mr. Fantastic, Sue can turn invisible and create force felds, Johnny becomes the Human Torch, and Ben transforms into the indestructible Thing. But their return to Earth is marred by the loss of Victor Von Doom (played with icy menace by Toby Kebbell), a brilliant yet arrogant scientist who is presumed dead—until he returns with god-like powers and a vendetta. The story centres on how the four learn to use their powers, reconcile their fractured relationships, and unite to stop Doom from collapsing the dimensional barrier between worlds.

Cast & Performances

Joseph Quinn steps confdently into the role of Reed Richards. Best known for Stranger Things, Quinn brings an intensity

WHO TO CALL IN AN EMERGENCY

Know who to call when you’re in need!

‘‘IF YOU NEED IMMEDIATE ASSISTANCE PLEASE CALL 000’’

and vulnerability to Reed’s obsessive drive, portraying him not just as a genius but as a man burdened by responsibility. He avoids the trope of aloof intellect and adds emotional depth.

Vanessa Kirby, as Sue Storm, delivers a grounded and emotionally resonant performance. Kirby’s Sue is not just a scientist but the glue that holds the group together. Her chemistry with Quinn is subtle but believable, portraying quiet moments of trust amid scientifc chaos.

Jacob Elordi provides the flm’s fashiest moments as Johnny Storm. His charisma, cocky energy, and surprising emotional beats elevate what could’ve been a stereotypical hothead into a more rounded character. The audience gets to see his transformation not just physically but in his sense of purpose.

Paul Walter Hauser ofers unexpected poignancy as Ben Grimm. Known for comedic and intense roles (Richard Jewell, Black Bird), Hauser’s portrayal of Ben’s post-transformation trauma is one of the flm’s emotional high points.

Toby Kebbell, reprising his connection with the character of Doom (after the critically panned 2015 version), is given a more thoughtful arc here. While still menacing, his motivations are more layered—powerful, philosophical, and ultimately tragic.

Production

Atlanta, Georgia, with additional scenes shot on location in the Mojave Desert, First Steps embraces a mix of practical sets and heavy VFX. The Planet Zero dimension was created using a mix of drone photography and digital landscapes to give it an alien but grounded texture.

Director Matt Shakman (WandaVision) aimed to blend science fction with grounded family drama. The flm’s tagline, “Before they saved the world, they had to save each other,” encapsulates this approach.

One of the more intriguing behind-thescenes facts: Marvel Studios worked closely with astrophysicists to shape the flm’s science elements, making the portal and mutation mechanisms more plausible than past adaptations.

Final Verdict

While The Fantastic Four: First Steps may not hit every narrative beat perfectly, it is a signifcant step up from previous iterations. The character work is deeper, the visuals more imaginative, and the tone more balanced. The pacing lags at times, especially in the second act, but the fnal showdown and emotional resolution redeem the slower moments.

For Australian audiences familiar with superhero fatigue, First Steps ofers a refreshing reboot that honours its source material while setting the stage for bigger, more connected MCU stories.

Rating: 3.5/5

PUZZLES

TIME FOR TRIVIA

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

2 The Strait of Malacca is located between which two countries? (a) Malaysia and Indonesia (b) Philippines and Taiwan (c) Japan and South Korea (d) Vietnam and China

3 Ernest Hemingway’s classic novel, A Farewell to Arms, is set during which war?

(a) World War I (b) World War II (c) Spanish Civil War (d) Second Balkan War

4 If you are an ailurophile, you are a lover of what type of creature? (a) Elephants (b) Bird (c) Snakes (d) Cats

5 What is the largest town on Norfolk Island?

(a) Star Pine (b) Burnt Pine (c) Cook Pine (d) Hemp Pine

6 Jerome Silberman was better known by what name?

(a) Oscar Niemeyer (b) Steve Jobs (c) Gene Wilder (d) Ansel Adams

WEEKLY CROSSWORD

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 AMBULATORY

(a) Unable to make up one’s mind

(b) Adapted for walking

2 FILIAL

(a) Relating to a son or daughter

(b) Coming at the end

3 HAPLOID

(a) Determined by mere chance (b) Single (c) Favouring the sense of touch

4 IGNOMINY

(a) Low birth

(b) Arson

5 JEREMIAD

(a) A large wine bottle

(b) A lamentation

BEST ON THE BOX

SUNDAY

AUSTIN

ABC TV, 7.30pm

Literary fame is calling for plucky young writer Austin (Love on the Spectrum’s wonderfully authentic Michael Theo, pictured above) when his novel is picked up by an international publisher in the second season of this hit comedy. Success is also calling for his father Julian (Ben Miller, Professor T) and stepmother Ingrid (Sally Phillips, Veep), who have sold their Big Bear series to Aussie TV execs. However, Julian’s lingering scandals see him cut out of the creative process – an axing that he won’t take lying down. DNA test results are the hot topic of tonight’s premiere – is Julian really Austin’s father? As they weigh their feelings about it, the trio take a trip to Northampton.

FRIDAY, July 25

TUESDAY

FBI: MOST WANTED

TEN, 9.40pm

There’s both good news and bad for fans of this high-stakes police procedural: while US network CBS cancelled both Most Wanted and its fellow International, earlier this year; the silver lining for Aussie fans is that we’ve still got a full season of new episodes to catch up on before Supervisory Special Agent Remy Scott (Dylan McDermott, pictured right) and the squad tackle their nal case. Tonight, in “Radio Silence”, the task force must act quickly when two NYPD o cers are gunned down during a robbery, and another pair are targeted while responding to a call. With precincts across the city on edge, the team works against the clock to track down the killer and end the bloodshed.

THURSDAY GREAT AUSTRALIAN ROAD TRIPS

SBS, 7.30pm

A travelogue that’s as much about the journey as the destination, this new format sees comedian Nazeem Hussain, foodie Melissa Leong (pictured right), writer and performer Steph Tisdell and Aussie acting royalty Claudia Karvan head o on six epic road trips that celebrate Australia’s natural beauty. Tonight, Leong introduces Hussain to the magic of the Red Centre on one of her favourite drives: cruising the almost 500km between Alice Springs and Watarrka National Park. There’s camel rides, bush tucker, a desert song festival and outback footy along the way, before the pair catch the sunset in Kings Canyon, surrounded by rock formations made famous by Priscilla, Queen of the Desert

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

6.00 News. 9.00 ABC News Mornings.

10.00 Poh’s Kitchen. (R) 10.30 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (Final, Ml, R) 11.10 Little Disasters. (Final, Mal, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon.

1.00 Bay Of Fires. (Mal, R) 2.00 Muster Dogs: Collies And Kelpies. (PG, R) 2.55 Love Your Garden. (R) 3.45 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

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

7.30 Gardening Australia. Jane escapes to a tropical conservatory.

8.30 Patience. (Ma) Patience investigates when a best-selling crime writer is found dead behind locked doors.

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

9.50 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) Presented by Guy Montgomery.

10.40 Spicks And Specks. (PGs, R)

11.05 ABC Late News.

11.25 Silent Witness. (Ma, R)

12.25 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

6.00 WorldWatch. 7.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 18. H’lights. 8.00 WorldWatch. 11.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 17. H’lights. 12.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 18. H’lights. 1.00 PBS News. 2.05 Engineering Reborn. (R) 3.00 Nula. 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 18. H’lights. 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 Your Money & Your Life. (PG) 1.30 Border Security: International. (PG,

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) Presented by Marc Fennell.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 The Good Ship Murder. (Return, Mv) A comedian is murdered on the ship.

8.25 The Royals: A History Of Scandals: Sex. Professor Suzannah Lipscomb investigates four sex scandals that dragged royals members through the gutter.

9.20 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 19.

2.00 World’s Most Secret Homes. (R)

3.45 Blue Water Safari. (PG, R)

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

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs and the team demonstrate some terri c ideas for the house, garden and the kitchen.

7.30 Football. AFL. Round 20. GWS Giants v Sydney. From ENGIE Stadium, Sydney.

10.30 Shaking Down The Thunder. (PGl, R) Follows the 2005 Sydney Swans. 11.45 GetOn Extra. A look at the weekend’s best racing.

12.15 The Disappearance. (Madv, R) Charles and Susan continue their investigation.

1.15 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

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

6am Morning Programs. 1pm Over The Black Dot. 1.30 Where Are You Really From? 2.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 17. Highlights. 3.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 18. Highlights. 4.05 BBC News At Ten. 4.30 France 24. 5.00 PBS News. 6.00 If You Are The One. 7.00 Jeopardy! 7.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 The Perfect Vagina. 9.30 My Massive C**k. 10.25 Homeland. 1.20am CODA: Mother Father Deaf. 2.20 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera. 6am Shopping. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Jabba’s Movies. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Discover. 2.30 Weekender. 3.00 The Great Australian Doorstep. 3.30 The Great Outdoors. 4.00 Better Homes. 5.00 Escape To The Country. 6.00 Bargain Hunt.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 21. Brisbane Broncos v Parramatta Eels. From Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane.

9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Brisbane Broncos versus Parramatta Eels match, with news and analysis.

10.45 MOVIE: Rambo: First Blood. (1982, Mlv, R) A Vietnam War veteran is pushed to the brink. Sylvester Stallone, Richard Crenna.

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

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

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

(62) VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 11.25 Wiggle. 11.55 Thomas And Friends. 12.55pm Mecha Builders. 2.05 Paddington. 2.30 Mister Maker Around The World. 3.00 Play School: What’s Cooking? 4.00 Andy’s Global Adventures. 4.25 Mecha Builders. 5.20 Thomas And Friends. 5.45 Kangaroo Beach. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.30 Good Game Spawn Point. 7.50 MOVIE: Looney Tunes: Back In Action. (2003, PG) 9.25 Robot Wars. 10.25 Merlin. 11.10 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 Nanny. 9.00 Jeopardy! Australia. 10.00 Bewitched. 10.30 Jeannie. 11.00 The West Wing. 12.10pm MOVIE: Christmas At The Chalet. (2023, PG) 2.00 Golden Girls. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched.

9GO! (83) 6am Mrs Lowry And Son. Continued. (2019, PG) 6.45 Another Country. (2015, PG) 8.15 Dancing At Lughnasa. (1998, PG) 10.00 Ali And Ava. (2021, M) 11.45 Ei el. (2021, M, French) 1.45pm The Movie Show. 2.20 Whisky Galore. (2016, PG) 4.10 Walk With Me. (2017, PG) 5.55 Where The Money Is. (2000, PG)

6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 7.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer.

7.30 House Hunters Australia. (PG, R) A couple search for a spacious home.

8.30 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Celebrity panellists compete to see who can remember the most about events of the week.

9.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Ms, R) Graham Norton is joined by Michael Fassbender, Jennifer Saunders, Daisy Haggard and Take That. 10.30 10’s Late News. 10.55 10 News+. (R) 11.55 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

SATURDAY, July 26

6.00 Rage Charts. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Rage. (PG) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Grantchester. (Ma, R) 1.15 Patience. (Ma, R) 2.05 All Creatures Great And Small. (R) 2.55 Great Southern Landscapes. (PG, R) 3.25 Earth. (R) 4.25 Spicks And Specks. (PGs, R) 4.55 Dr Ann’s Secret Lives. (R) 5.30 Landline. (R) 6.00 WorldWatch. 7.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 19. H’lights. 8.00 WorldWatch. 11.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 18. H’lights. 12.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 19. H’lights. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Sailing. Sail Grand Prix. Round 7. H’lights. 3.00 Going Places. (PG, R) 4.30 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 19. H’lights. 5.40 Hitler’s American Battleground. (PGa, R)

6.00 Australian Story: Making A Scene – Claudia Karvan. (R)

6.30 Back Roads: North East Tasmania. (PG, R)

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

7.30 Grantchester. (Ma) Alphy and Geordie step in to help Leonard.

8.20 Midsomer Murders. (Mv, R) Barnaby and Winter investigate after a body is found covered in live rabbits at the Belville Small Pet Show.

9.50 Bay Of Fires. (Mal, R) A date night turns into graveyard duty for Stella. 10.40 Little Disasters. (Final, Mal, R) 11.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Great British Cities With Susan Calman: Newcastle. Susan Calman explores Newcastle, with her adventure kicking o at Newcastle Castle.

8.25 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 20. Nantua to Pontarlier. 184.2km hilly stage. From France.

12.50 Guillaume’s Paris. (R)

1.20 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. Stage 1.

3.50 Blue Water Safari: Under Pressure. (PG, R)

5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

(31) 6am Children’s Programs. 2.05pm Paddington. 2.30 Mister

Around The

3.00

ABC ENTERTAINS (23)

3.30 Pirates

6am Morning

Programs. 1.30pm Over The Black Dot. 2.00 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights. 3.00 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights. 4.05 WorldWatch. 6.05 Mastermind Aust. 6.35 The Frontier. 7.30 Impossible Engineering. 8.30 James May: Our Man In Italy. 10.30 Cracking The Code. 12.30am Epstein Didn’t Kill Himself. 2.05 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 The Great Outdoors. (PG)

7.30 Mysteries Of The Pyramids. (Premiere, PG) Presented by Dara Ó Briain.

8.30 MOVIE: The Da Vinci Code. (2006, Mav, R) An academic uncovers a conspiracy while helping investigate a murder inside the Louvre. Tom Hanks, Audrey Tautou, Ian McKellen.

11.30 Autopsy USA: Dana Plato. (Mad, R)

12.30 The Disappearance. (Mav, R)

1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 It’s Academic. (R)

5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (Final, PG, R)

7TWO (62)

6am Shopping. 8.30 Better Homes. 11.00 Harry’s Practice. 11.30 GetOn Extra. Noon Room For Improvement. 12.30 Last Chance Learners. 1.00 Better Homes. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 The Yorkshire Vet. 5.00 Slow Train Through Africa. 6.00 Every Bite Takes You Home. 6.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 1.30am My Greek Odyssey. 2.30 Late Programs.

6.00 NBN News.

(8,

6.30 The Dog

7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 Rugby Union. British & Irish Lions Tour. Game 2. Australia v British & Irish Lions.

10.00 Test Rugby: Australia v British & Irish Lions Post-Match.

10.15 MOVIE: Creed. (2015, Malv, R)

12.45 My Life As A Rolling Stone. (Madl, R)

2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG)

2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

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

Underpants. 4.20 Dino Dex. 4.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.10 Octonauts: Over Under Adv. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.05 Andy And The Band. 7.30 Teenage Boss: Next Level. (Return) 8.00 Kids Baking C’ship. 8.40 Chopped Jnr. 9.20 Fresh O The Boat. 10.05 Speechless. 10.45 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 Allo! Allo! 9.20 Blackadder Goes Forth. 10.10 MOVIE:

6am The Movie Show. 6.15 Where The Money Is. (2000, PG) 7.55 The Movie Show. 8.25 Walk With Me. (2017, PG) 10.10 The Movie Show. 10.40 Begin Again. (2013, M) 12.35pm The Bridges Of Madison County. (1995, M) 3.00 Mrs Lowry And Son. (2019, PG) 4.45 Dancing At Lughnasa. (1998, PG) 6.30 The Four Musketeers: Revenge Of Milady. (1974, PG) 8.30 Jackie Brown. (1997, MA15+) 11.20 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 11.30 Life O Road. Noon Aussie Adventure Bike Show. 12.30 Timbersports. 1.00 Blokesworld. 1.30 Teeing O With Daisy Thomas. 2.00 Seven’s Motorsport Classic. 2.30 Motor Racing. Shannons SpeedSeries. Round 4. Day 1. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Storage Wars. 7.30 Pawn Stars. 9.30 American Pickers. 10.30 Air Crash Inv: Accident Files. 11.30 Late Programs.

(52) 7MATE (64) SBS MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 1.50pm ER. 2.35 Heartbreak High. 3.25 A Bite To Eat. 3.55 Penn & Teller: Fool Us. 4.40 MythBusters. 5.30 Car S.O.S. 6.15 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent. 7.05 House Of Games. 7.35 QI. 8.05 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. 8.55 Wil Anderson: Wilogical. 9.55 Extras. 10.55 ER. 11.40 Rage. 12.40am Unforgotten. 3.05 Heartbreak High. 4.20 Late Programs.

(53) NITV (34) SBS FOOD (33)

SUNDAY, July 27

TV (2)

6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Insiders. 10.00 O siders. 10.30 World This Week. (R) 11.00 Compass. (PGals, R) 11.30 Praise. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 2.30 Gri ’s Great American South. (R) 3.15 Nigella Bites. (R) 3.40 Martin Clunes: Islands Of Australia. (PG, R) 4.40 Hippo Watch With Steve Backshall. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow.

6.30 Compass: The GovernorGeneral – One Year On. (PG)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Austin. (Return, PG) Austin grapples with sudden literary fame.

8.00 Bay Of Fires. (Malv) Stella must deal with another dead body.

8.50 Miss Austen. (Premiere) Charts the lives of Jane and Cassandra Austen.

9.45 MOVIE: Gayby Baby. (2015, PG, R) Follows four children of gay parents. Gus.

11.10 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (PG, R) 11.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

1.40 Under The Vines. (PG, R) 4.00 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.00 Insiders. (R)

Superworm. 6.50 Isadora Moon. 7.05 Andy And The Band. 7.35 The Mysterious Benedict Society. (Premiere) 8.25 Fresh O The Boat. 9.10 Abbott Elementary. 9.50 Speechless. 10.15 Merlin. 10.55 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 8.40 The Magic Canoe. 10.00 MOVIE: Bush Christmas. (1983, PG) 11.40 MOVIE: Shorts. (2009, PG) 1.10pm Arctic Secrets. 2.00 Nula. 2.30 Living Black. 3.00 Who Killed Malcolm Smith? 4.30 Chatham Islanders. 5.30 Amplify. 6.40 The Other Side. 7.30 Big Backyard Quiz. 8.30 MOVIE: Constantine. (2005, MA15+) 10.35 Bob Marley: Uprising Live. 12.35am Late Programs.

(3)

6.00 WorldWatch. 7.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 20. 8.00 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. Stage 1. 9.00 WorldWatch. 10.30 PBS Washington. 11.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 19. 12.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 20. 1.00 Motor Racing. ProMX C’ships. Round 7. 4.00 Going Places. (PGl, R) 4.30 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 20. 5.40 Hitler’s American Battleground. (PGa) 6.00

6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 The Lost World Of The Hanging Gardens. 8.35 The Secrets Of Mount Olympus. (R) Takes a look at Mount Olympus, considered the residence of the gods in Greek mythology. 9.30 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. Stage 2. 11.30 Guillaume’s French Atlantic. (R) 12.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 21. 4.25 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 APAC Weekly.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Dancing With The Stars. (PGa) 8.20 7NEWS Spotlight.

9.20 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous: Mystery Of The Homestead Murders. (MA15+av, R) Takes a look at the 1978 murders of Mick and Sue Lewis, whose bodies were found in their homestead.

10.40 The Crow Girl. (MA15+av)

12.50 Jamestown. (MA15+av, R)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 The Block. (Return, PGl) 8.55 60 Minutes. Current a airs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues a ecting all Australians.

10.00 World Aquatics Championships. Singapore 2025. Day 1. Finals.

11.00 9News Late.

11.30 The First 48. (Mav) 12.30 Embarrassing Bodies. (MA15+dms, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)

4.30 Fishing Australia. (R)

5.00 Today Early News.

5.30 Today.

ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 10.15 FIA World Endurance. 6 Hours of São Paulo. 11.20 IndyCar Series. Grand Prix Of Toronto. H’lights. 12.30pm Celebrity Ghost Stories. 1.30 Limitless With Chris Hemsworth. 2.30 Ready Vet Go: The Vet Paramedics. 3.00 Cards And Collectables Australia. 3.30 MOVIE: Stick It. (2006, PG) 5.30 MOVIE: Cheaper By The Dozen. (2003) 7.30 MOVIE: Live And Let Die.

6.00 10 News+. Comprehensive coverage of the day’s top stories, investigative reports and stories that haven’t been heard. 7.00 MasterChef Australia. A batch of 23 former contestants returns. 8.15 Watson. (Ma) Watson and the fellows investigate the perplexing case of a family man with a bullet lodged in his head, who insists he is a Scottish soldier and seems to be hiding something nefarious. 9.15 FBI. (Mav, R) All eyes are on the FBI when it tries to nd out who kidnapped the only child of a prominent senator. 11.00 10 News+. (R) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30

DRAMA (51) 9GEM (82) 7TWO (62) VICELAND (31)

Engineering. 8.30 The Legend Of Bigfoot. 9.25 The Phoenix Lights Phenomenon. 10.15 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Leading The Way. 8.00 David Jeremiah. 8.30 Shopping. 9.00 Better Homes. 10.00 The Zoo. 10.30 Escape To The Country. 1.30pm Harry’s Practice. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 The Great Australian Doorstep. 3.00 Your Money & Your Life. 3.30 The Zoo. 4.20 Escape To The Country. 7.20 Vicar Of Dibley. 8.30 Vera. 10.30 Vicar Of Dibley. 11.40 Late Programs. 6am Shopping. 8.00 All 4 Adventure. 9.00 Reel Action. 9.30 What’s Up Down Under. 10.00 JAG.

SATURDAY 2 AUGUST SATURDAY 2 AUGUST

Casino Truck Show 2025 Set to Shine with Rigs, Rides, and Regional Spirit

Get ready, Northern Rivers — the Casino Truck Show 2025 is rumbling back into town and promises to be bigger, brighter, and bolder than ever before. On Saturday, 2 August, the streets of Casino will transform into a rolling exhibition of mechanical marvels, community pride, and high-octane celebration. Regarded as one of the largest and most loved truck shows in the southern hemisphere, this event is not just about showcasing rigs — it’s about bringing people together in the heart of regional New South Wales.

With entertainment, charity, industry innovation, and a fairground atmosphere wrapped into one dynamic weekend, the Casino Truck Show has frmly cemented its place as a must-attend event on the Australian trucking and

community calendar. Friday Night Lights Returns The excitement

offcially kicks off on Friday, 1 August, as the town glows with the return of Friday Night

Lights. This prelude to the main event is a visual feast — rows of gleaming trucks roll into

JOIN OUR TEAM!

Operational and Non Operational volunteer roles available with training and opportunities to expand your skills

Casino’s CBD, lit up with dazzling custom lighting and polished to perfection. Locals and early visitors are encouraged to wander the town centre, admire the rigs under the stars, enjoy live music, and grab a bite from local street food vendors. Friday Night Lights is more than a truck display; it’s a community street party that sets the stage for the thrilling day to come.

Saturday’s Main Event: Dawson’s Haulage Parade and Festival Fun

Come Saturday morning, the town of Casino will be in full throttle. Starting at 10am, the Dawson’s Haulage Truck Parade will bring over 200 trucks through Johnston and Centre Streets, showcasing the

Casino Truck Show 2025 –Offcial Program

Saturday, 2 August –

Casino, NSW

Get ready for a big day in Casino as the North Coast Petroleum Casino Truck Show rolls into town with a packed program of events for the whole family! From jaw-dropping truck displays to live entertainment, food, kids’ activities, and more— there’s something for everyone.

Parade Marshalling

6:00am – 9:30am

Casino Industrial Estate

Truck entrants assemble ahead of the big parade.

Truck Parade

10:00am – 12:00pm

Parade Route through Casino CBD

Watch hundreds of polished prime movers

and working trucks roll through town in a spectacular showcase of Australia’s fnest rigs.

Kids Amusements

10:00am – 4:00pm

Kids Zone, Canterbury Street

A dedicated space full of fun for the little ones— rides, games, and entertainment all day long.

Live Music – Pink Zinc

11:30am – 2:30pm Southern Stage (Commercial Hotel)

Get your groove on with the high-energy sounds of Pink Zinc—a crowd favourite!

Live Music – Country Mud

12:00pm – 3:00pm Northern Stage (Days

Machinery)

Enjoy classic country rock from Country Mud, perfect for fans of live music and great Aussie vibes.

Exhibitors + Food Stalls

10:00am – 4:00pm

Event space throughout the show precinct

Explore a wide range of exhibitors, food trucks, and merchandise stalls. From machinery to model trucks and festival eats— it’s all here!

Auction 2:45pm

Mafeking Lamp Roundabout

Bid on unique items and support the community at the much-anticipated charity auction.

Presentation Ceremony

3:00pm – 4:00pm

Mafeking Lamp Roundabout

Celebrate the winners of the 2025 Casino Truck Show! Awards will be presented to the best in show and category champions.

Need More Info?

Phone: 02 6660 0300

Email: info@casinotruckshow. com.au

Website: casinotruckshow.com.au

Don’t miss this incredible day in the heart of the Richmond Valley—where chrome shines, diesel roars, and community pride rolls on strong!

best in Australian heavy vehicle design, detail,

of beautifully presented trucks, speak to owners,

and pride. From vintage haulers to modern marvels, spectators can expect to be wowed by the artistry and engineering on display.

Following the parade, the entire Casino CBD will morph into a truckie’s dream festival — one bursting with energy, music, and community connection. Visitors will be able to stroll among hundreds

admire intricate detailing, and learn about the craftsmanship behind every custom modifcation.

But it’s not just for diehard truckies. Families will fnd plenty to entertain all ages, including:

• A dedicated kids’ zone with rides, face painting, and a mobile animal farm

• Live entertainment from bands such as

MAJOR SPONSOR OF THE 2025 CASINO TRUCK SHOW

• Food stalls and local cuisine vendors

• Trade displays featuring the latest in transport tech, equipment, and services

• Artisan markets and community stalls

And to top it off, the excitement continues

into the night with a bull ride under lights, giving families and adrenaline seekers something to cheer for into the evening.

— it’s about community. Year after year, the event has raised substantial funds for vital causes. In 2024 alone,

A Truck Show with Heart: Giving Back Through Charity The Casino Truck Show is more than chrome and horsepower

it generated $24,000 for the Movember Foundation and the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, demonstrating the trucking industry’s commitment to giving

LONG ESTABLISHED FAMILY FREIGHT BUSINESSMcMULLEN FREIGHTLINES

Darryl McMullen comes from a long-established family in the Northern Rivers area. As the eldest boy of six, he was schooled in Casino. “It was compulsory to go to school, but not compulsory to learn”, laughed Darryl.

With that he left school at 16 and went to the south coast where he built up a transport

business. I have been in the transport business now on the North Coast since 1979 said Darryl.

“We have had a long association with Hurfords, Richmond Waster and a timber merchant in Brisbane for over 30 years now.”

With the expansion of the business to include West of The Range Transport and Hensley

Carriers, we strive to maintain a high standard of service to our clients of the North Coast and Northern Rivers regions. As a business owner I am especially proud of my team of 20 fulltime employees and the job we have done through the hard times of the last 5 years and are continually moving forward.

“Connecting Country to Coast” LISMORE - BRISBANE DAILY - DEPOTS IN SYDNEY & BRISBANE Phone: 02 6622 3495

logistics@mcmullensfreightlines.com.au logistics@mcmullensfreightlines.com.au or 02 6622 3495

Phone: 02 6622 3495

Pink Zinc and Country Mud Band

back.

In 2025, the event strengthens its charitable mission through a partnership with Get Yourself Checked, a men’s health awareness campaign. A specially designed Kenworth B-double trailer emblazoned with the campaign’s messaging will be on display to raise awareness around early detection and regular health checks — particularly targeting the

long-haul driver community.

The fundraising highlight will be the live charity auction at 2:45pm, where attendees can bid on a custom-built trailer-end bar, valued at $8,000 and crafted by Moore Trailers. All proceeds will directly support regional health initiatives and local services, ensuring the show’s impact goes beyond just one weekend.

Registration, Entry Details and Prize Money

For those eager to show off their rigs, the truck registration window opens on 1 July and will close on 30 July — or sooner if the 550-vehicle limit is reached. There will be no registration on the day, so truck owners are urged to register early to secure a place. The entry fee is $30 per truck, which includes a position in the

main showcase and automatic entry into the judged competitions. Trucks will be judged across numerous categories, assessing everything from paintwork and custom features to cleanliness, creativity, and overall presentation. A total of $60,000 in prizes will be up for grabs, with the most coveted title being Rig of the Show. Sponsored by RTE Custom Trucks, the top prize includes

Boonah Carrying Co has been a trusted name in transport services across Southeast Queensland we’ve built a legacy of reliability and commitment.

Under the local owners Gary and Linda Faulkner for the past 25 years, Boonah Carrying Co offers delivery and pickup services across Southeast Queensland, including Toowoomba, Brisbane, and even interstate. Our diverse services cover everything from tilt tray operations and container sales to general freight. Since 1912, we’ve consistently provided competitive prices and

effcient, high-quality service to our customers. We’re proud to have earned the trust of industry leaders such as Australia Post, FedEx, and Ingham’s Hatcheries — a testament to the reliability and professionalism.

What began as a simple vision to offer affordable, dependable transport solutions has now spanned over 109 years. Whether you’re in need of freight or container services, we’re here to make it happen. Book your next delivery with Boonah Carrying Co today!

Pittsworth Fleet Maintenance

Pittsworth Fleet

Maintenance is the trusted name in heavy vehicle servicing across the Darling Downs and afar, locally owned and proudly independent, we o er expert mechanical repairs, servicing and custom t out and fabrication for Trucks and Trailers.

Our team is committed to quality workmanship,

prompt service and honest advice –backed by years of industry experience. Whether its scheduled maintenance or emergency repairs, we keep your eet moving safely and efciently. At PFM, we value reliability, customer service, and attention to detail. Drive in with condence – your eet is in the best hands.

$5,000 in vouchers and $1,500 in cash. Other awards are backed by major supporters like Brown & Hurley, further highlighting the industry’s enthusiasm for celebrating trucking excellence.

Judging will take place throughout the day, with the trophy presentations scheduled for 3pm, giving entrants and spectators a chance to celebrate the best of the best.

A Festival Atmosphere in the Heart of the Northern Rivers

While the trucks are the stars of the show, the festival vibe is what keeps people coming back year after year. The Casino Truck Show has evolved into an event that not only showcases mechanical artistry but also champions small businesses, regional culture, and community connection.

Local restaurants and cafes buzz with activity, accommodation across the region flls up, and thousands of visitors fll the streets, creating a festive, welcoming environment for all. Whether you’re a truck enthusiast, a local busi-

ness owner, or a family looking for a fun day out, the show has something to offer.

The Northern Rivers community is known for

released closer to the date.

Entry to the event is free for spectators, making it an accessible day out for the entire family.

For the trucking community, it’s a moment to shine — to show off the hard work, the custom

its resilience, hospitality, and pride in place — and the Casino Truck Show exemplifes all of that and more.

Plan Ahead and Be Part of the Action

With so much on offer, organisers are encouraging locals and visitors to plan early. Accommodation in Casino and surrounding towns books out quickly, so attendees are advised to secure lodging in advance. Road closures will be in effect across the CBD on show day, with public transport and parking plans to be

Visitors are welcome to bring picnic blankets and chairs, enjoy the entertainment, and make the most of what promises to be an unforgettable experience.

Why the Casino Truck Show Matters

In a time when regional events are more important than ever, the Casino Truck Show proves what a well-run, community-focused festival can achieve. It fuels the local economy, celebrates the hard work and pride of the transport industry, and delivers a weekend full of joy, education, and entertainment.

builds, the commitment to safety and presentation. For locals, it’s a point of pride — a reminder that small towns can host world-class events with enormous heart.

And for visitors, it’s a spectacle not to be missed — whether you’re watching the parade, cheering at the bull ride, or bidding at the auction.

So mark your calendar for 2 August 2025, and prepare for a weekend where trucks, town spirit, and generosity take centre stage.

Masterart Designs: Tradition and Innovation in Signwriting Across Australia

In the world of signwriting, few names carry the weight of tradition and craftsmanship like Masterart Designs, led by Damian Gibbs. With nearly two decades of full-time experience and a legacy passed down from his father, Tony Gibbs, Damian continues to make his mark across Australia—one brushstroke at a time.

Damian’s career began under the guidance of his father, who instilled in him the art of hand lettering, pinstriping, and signwriting. For the past 17 years, he has been working full-time as a pinstriper and signwriter, specialising in truck signage and custom paintwork.

“I’ve been in this industry most of my life,” Damian says. “Starting

out with my old man, I learnt the value of quality craftsmanship—something that’s becoming rarer in today’s world of digital shortcuts.”

Operating under Masterart Designs, Damian has developed a strong reputation for freehand lines, scrolls, custom logos, and detailed pinstriping. His expertise extends to hot rods, bikes, boats, helmets, and even custom spray painting. Whether it’s restoring an oldschool logo or enhancing a modern rig with fair, Damian delivers art that stands out on any road or waterway.

His work has taken him across the East Coast of Australia, from Victoria to Brisbane, and even out to Perth and Tasmania.

It’s a testament to his skill that demand for his

services spans the entire country.

“I can provide for your modern signage needs,” Damian explains, “but I also offer something you don’t often see anymore—traditional hand-painted signage. That’s where my roots are.”

From heritage restorations to eye-catching branding on commercial vehicles, Masterart Designs bridges the past and the present—preserving a timeless art form while meeting the demands of today’s clients.

For those looking to elevate their vehicles, boats, or business signage with craftsmanship that lasts, Damian Gibbs and Masterart Designs offer an unbeatable blend of skill, passion, and experienc

BIG CROSSWORD

STARS & PUZZLES

TARGET TIME

E S M

W R

I A E Today’s target: 14 words average 18 words good 24+ words excellent

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

ASTROLOGY

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

Prepare for a topsy-turvy week! The Sun and New Moon are both visiting fellow fire sign Leo, so you’ll feel like powering ahead with creative projects. But remember Mercury is retrograde (in Leo, until August 11) so rushing around impulsively could backfire – especially involving family and friends. To reduce stress levels (and the likelihood of making mistakes) enthusiasm must be balanced with caution, and fiery haste tempered with plenty of patience.

TAURUS (Apr 20 – May 20)

Venus squares Mars on Wednesday, when a financial matter takes an unexpected turn or a family member could hit you with some surprising news. Talking things through with a sympathetic friend may be the healing balm you need. Then the New Moon (on Thursday night/Friday morning) is a good time for a domestic reboot as you clean and declutter your living space, and make it more beautiful via redecorating, playing music or a fresh lick of paint.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 20)

Family relationships and close friendships look complicated, as loved ones debate a wide range of controversial topics or a relative makes an unpredictable move. If you have a problem that’s bothering you, avoid making a rash decision. Slow down and let your intuition be your guide. The New Moon (on Thursday night/Friday morning) is the perfect time to begin a course of study, start a neighbourhood project, join a community group or make a new friend.

CANCER (June 21 – July 22)

You’ve been talking about saving for something big (like a car, holiday, house deposit or home renovation) for a while. With the Sun, New Moon and retrograde Mercury visiting your finance zone, resist the urge to be extravagant with cash and careless with credit. In an uncertain economic climate, aim to be a canny Crab who is cautious with money. Plus, do an inventory on your inner wealth, as you nurture your self-esteem and consolidate your core values.

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)

Calling all Cats! With the Sun and New Moon in Leo, it’s your time to shine – to display your numerous creative talents and dazzle others with your fiery enthusiasm and abundant Leo charm. It’s also the best week of the year to try a new hairstyle, update your wardrobe or start an exciting personal project. But remember Mercury is reversing through your sign, so be careful you don’t upset others by behaving in an inconsistent, confusing or selfish way.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Mercury is retrograde, which can make you feel restless, stressed, disorganised and/or overwhelmed. Plus – with the Sun and New Moon also in your solitude zone – you’ll feel like being on your own. Privacy and self-reflection are paramount, so activities like meditation, contemplation, chanting and/or yoga are recommended. Your mantra comes from birthday great, psychoanalyst Carl Jung: “Solitude is for me a fount of healing which makes my life worth living.”

LIBRA (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

The Sun and fiery New Moon stimulate your hopes-and-wishes zone and reignite a special dream or aspiration that’s been languishing on the sidelines. But retrograde Mercury is also there so – if you are stuck in a friendship slump or a relationship rut – don’t dwell on the past. It’s time to reboot your peer group as you reacquaint yourself with a creative new crowd. Thursday favours disciplined work, ticking the to-do list and tidying up loose ends.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

There’s no denying you’re a smart Scorpio but are you making the most of your professional talents? With the Sun and New Moon in your career zone, put on your thinking cap, connect with colleagues and keep them up to date with your work plans. But retrograde Mercury is also there, so – unless you communicate clearly and concisely – expect timetable chaos, missed meetings and/or misunderstandings. Diplomacy and patience will see you through.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Are you feeling restless, Sagittarius? The Sun, New Moon and Mercury stir your gypsy gene and find you dreaming of airplane tickets, greener pastures and foreign adventures. You’re also longing for closer connections with your international friends. But Mercury is retro (until August 11) so travel plans could be delayed or cancelled, and a friendship could be turned upside down. Less haste and closer attention to details will make the week less frustrating.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Do you have a frustrating problem that needs fixing? Have you asked other people for advice but still can’t find a solution? This week the Sun, New Moon and retrograde Mercury activate your trust-and-wisdom zone. So, listen to your inner voice and pay attention to symbolic messages and intuitive insights. Your motto for the moment is from birthday great Carl Jung: “The person who looks outward dreams, the person who looks inward awakens.”

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

This week you’ll be reliably unpredictable and consistently inconsistent! Love, loyalty and compromise are the New Moon buzzwords. But one half of you wants to snuggle up close with someone special – while the other half longs to be footloose, fancy-free and spontaneously solo. Try to find the sweet spot between cosy companionship and invigorating independence. And resist the urge to be an Aquarian provocateur who is deliberately controversial.

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

New Moon week is the ideal time to ditch bad daily habits and start afresh. Work, health, fitness and food choices are the main areas you need to revise and then make some long-overdue changes and adjustments. The sooner the better. Try to release pent-up Piscean frustrations via a chat with a close confidante or a trusted family member. Spending some quality time with your favourite four-legged friend (in the great outdoors) will also help to lift your spirits.

with Joanne Madeline Moore

Live, Loud and Local:

Northern Rivers Entertainment Guide (July 24–August 11)

The Northern Rivers is set to come alive with a rich mix of live music, theatre, flm, and cultural festivals between July 24 and August 11, ofering something for every age and interest across the region’s vibrant communities.

Music to Move You

Kicking things of, Blues guitarist Ash Grunwald brings his electrifying live show to the Byron Theatre on Saturday, July 26, promising a night

of roots, soul, and gritty rock. Meanwhile, over in Tweed Heads, the Twin Towns Services Club will host The Whitlams Black Stump Band on Friday, August 2, fusing classic hits with a countrybluegrass twist.

Local venues are also heating up: The Rails in Byron Bay will continue its free live music every night, spotlighting regional talent including Lisa Hunt, Marshall Okell, and The Swamps

For jazz lovers, Lismore City Hall presents the acclaimed Trichotomy Trio on August 3 as part of their winter concert series.

Theatre and Film

The Northern Rivers Performing Arts (NORPA) presents “Flow” — a powerful, river-themed physical theatre piece inspired by local food stories. Running July 31 to August 3 at Lismore City Hall, this original production combines

storytelling, dance, and multimedia in a timely and emotional journey through water, resilience, and renewal.

Film bufs should head to Mullumbimby Civic Hall on August 4, where Screenwave Film Festival returns for a one-night special screening of the critically acclaimed “The New Boy”, followed by a Q&A with special guests.

Cultural Celebrations & Markets

The Byron Flea Market

returns on Saturday, July 27, at the Byron Youth Centre, blending live music, street food, and upcycled fashion. Also don’t miss the Bangalow Music Festival, running August 9–11, which showcases world-class chamber music in an intimate hinterland setting.

In Murwillumbah, the Gallery DownTown continues its Contemporary Women Artists exhibition through early August, and the

Queensland’s Cosiest Festival:

Brunswick Picture House will host its famously quirky Cheeky Cabaret shows on August 2 and 3

Whether you’re into blues, baroque, or bold theatre, the Northern Rivers is buzzing with events to keep you entertained this winter. Keep an eye on local venues and community boards for last-minute announcements and pop-up shows.

Jumpers and Jazz in July Returns to Warwick

Colour, Creativity, and Community Spirit Take Over the Southern Downs This Winter Warwick’s winter warm-up is here! The beloved Jumpers and Jazz in July festival returns from Thursday 17 to Sunday 27 July 2025, transforming this charming Queensland town into a kaleidoscope of colour, music, yarn, and celebration

Now in its 21st year, this uniquely cosy and quirky winter festival started as a fun idea to brighten up Warwick’s CBD and has evolved into one of Queensland’s most iconic regional events. With over 220 events spread across 10 days and 9 communities , it’s a vibrant display of local art, jazz, food,

family fun, and good old-fashioned country hospitality

A Festival Like No Other Winter in Queensland might be chilly this year, but the Southern Downs will be radiating warmth and whimsy. Imagine trees wrapped in handknitted jumpers, a church turret draped in cascading yarn fowers , and the community coming together to celebrate all things artistic and musical.

Festival Highlights Include:

• Live Jazz Performances – From mellow street swing to full-scale New Orleansinspired big bands.

• Tree Jumper Art Installations – Warwick Art Gallery's yarn-

bombed masterpieces line the CBD.

• Pop-up Bars & Food

Trucks – Satisfy your taste buds at laneways and public spaces across town.

• Creative Workshops & Art Trails – Perfect for hands-on fun and inspiration.

• Family-Friendly Activities – Jazzy Kids Arena, open-air concerts, and roving performers.

Signature Events You Can't Miss Jumpin’ Jazz Laneway Party – Friday 19 July

Kick things of with live music from UQ Big Band and Well Swung Daddies in Warwick’s laneways.

Grand Automobile

Display – Sunday 20 July

See a dazzling array of vintage and classic vehicles in the CBD and

Leslie Park.

Saturday Stroll n Swing – Saturday 26 July

Enjoy a free openair celebration featuring music, food, and emergency service tributes.

Saturday Jazz Arena

– Saturday 26 July

An alfresco concert paired with boutique eats and licensed bars.

Local Flavours Long Lunch – Saturday 26 July

A paddock-to-plate experience showcasing the region’s best food and wine.

Twilight Jazz 'n' Blues in the Park – Saturday 26 July

Dance under the stars with high-energy jazz and soul in a magical night park setting.

Picnic in the Park & Potters Markets –Sunday 27 July

Wrap up the festivities with live music, markets, and community joy.

A Yarn-Bombed Wonderland Awaits

Whether you're drawn by the jazz, the artisan markets, the classic cars , or simply the country charm, Jumpers and Jazz in July is an unforgettable winter escape. From interactive Enchanted Forests to knitted spectacles that turn trees into sculptures, Warwick's streets are full of joy, colour, and community connection. If you need an excuse for a winter road trip — this is it.

Even the trees get cold!! The famed regional Queensland celebration Jumpers and Jazz in July returns

2025 in Warwick_photo Jumpers and Jazz in July

2026 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport

Set for Late Arrival –But With Electrifed Ambitions

Mitsubishi’s nextgeneration Pajero Sport is ofcially in the pipeline, but Australian customers will need to be patient.

Despite the arrival of the all-new Mitsubishi Triton well over a year ago, the corresponding SUV version isn’t expected to hit local roads until mid to late 2026, according to senior company executives.

At the 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander launch event, both Mitsubishi Australia CEO Shaun Westcott and Product Strategy General Manager Bruce Hampel confrmed that a new Pajero Sport is coming — just not anytime soon. The deliberate delay, they explained, is strategic.

“We’re a company that believes in suspense,” Westcott said, citing past experiences where early announcements

created product fatigue long before vehicles hit showroom foors. “What I can confrm is there will be a replacement for the Pajero Sport… it’s looking really, really good.”

This admission ends months of speculation, especially as many expected the newgeneration Pajero Sport to arrive in line with Mitsubishi’s typical release cadence — about 12 to 18 months after its Triton ute counterpart. Rival manufacturers follow this formula with models like the Ford Ranger/Everest and Isuzu D-MAX/MU-X. However, Mitsubishi appears to be deviating from the trend.

Adding to the delay is the absence of the Pajero Sport from Mitsubishi’s 2025 product rollout timeline. Hampel clarifed that Mitsubishi had anticipated the delay and

acted accordingly: “We’ve got enough stock of the current Pajero Sport to the end of next year.” In fact, Mitsubishi has been stockpiling the existing generation, knowing that upcoming regulatory changes would halt its production.

As of March 2025, the existing Pajero Sport can no longer be imported due to Australia’s ADR 98/00 regulation, which mandates car-to-car autonomous emergency braking (AEB).

Mitsubishi pre-purchased sufcient stock to ensure a continued presence in the seven-seat ladderframe SUV segment until the new model arrives — efectively stockpiling until the second half of 2026.

By then, the efects of the New Vehicle Efciency Standard (NVES) — which places CO₂ penalties

and credits on vehicle line-ups — will be in full swing. Mitsubishi, like its competitors, will be under pressure to reduce emissions. That makes the next Pajero Sport a key candidate for electrifcation.

Mitsubishi has already confrmed its Australian range will include petrol, diesel, hybrid, plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and battery-electric vehicles by the end of the decade.

The Pajero Sport, as a high-profle model, is set to play a pivotal role in that transition.

While full technical specifcations remain undisclosed, Hampel referred to the SUV as a future “fagship” model and hinted that it will beneft from Mitsubishi’s local ride and handling development program.

With the new Triton platform expected to evolve toward electrifed

Motoring Professional Services

powertrains, the Pajero Sport is likely to follow suit.

CEO Westcott elaborated on potential electrifcation directions, saying Mitsubishi is actively evaluating options including non-plug-in hybrid systems. “Coming back to our use cases around utes and where we’re going to go in the future, [hybrids are] one of the considerations,” he said, referring to current limitations in electric and plug-in hybrid powertrains for larger vehicles.

Given Mitsubishi’s pragmatic approach, the most probable short-term powertrain for the new Pajero Sport would be a mild hybrid turbo-diesel setup. This aligns with customer expectations in the SUV market for strong towing, of-road, and touring capability, while also contributing to lower average feet emissions

under NVES.

The strategic introduction of hybrid technology would also position Mitsubishi to compete more efectively with brands like Toyota, which continues to lead the large SUV segment with hybrid variants of the Prado and the forthcoming LandCruiser 300 Series. Similarly, GWM’s Tank series has gained popularity thanks to its hybrid options.

As Westcott put it: “We need that breadth of powertrains to meet market needs. We have to stay alive by selling cars that consumers want and that meet their needs.”

In short, while the 2026 Pajero Sport is slow-cooking for now, Mitsubishi’s recipe seems to call for a rugged new design, modern tech, and an electrifed twist — likely served hot in the second half of next year.

JEFF GIBBS

Grape Expectation by Max Crus

Hackers have infltrated many of our biggest companies and government organisations recently : Telstra, Optus, Medicare among others, and the latest, Qantas, who tellingly in their apology emails thought concerns about Frequent Flyer points were foremost in customers minds.

“Bugger my identity and the bank account, what about my rewards points?” So when my phone suggested recently that

Yabby Lake Tasmania

Single Vineyard Chardonnay 2023 (2024 out now), $60. Taking full advantage of the vanguard colour palette, this looks as posh as it tastes, and would suit posh restaurants, garden parties and celebrity weddings. It's so on trend you straight away want a car the same colour. Vanguard wine too, and still value at ....9.4/10.

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

Update and be damned

there was an update available, I stupidly thought “oh, good. I’ll be better protected”, knowing full well that this was a mistake, and it was. However this needs to be clarifed; devices now don’t suggest there’s an update available, they insist that the update is absolutely critical and that if you don’t do it your bank accounts will be emptied, your car will be deprogrammed by Chinese hackers and your life will be in jeopardy.

Yabby Lake Tasmania

Single Vineyard Pinot Noir 2023, $75. The pigeon pair to the chardonnay adorned in the same livery is even more impressive with alluring pinot characters that shiraz lovers would lie about. Quintessentially Tassie, quintessentially pinot. 9.5/10.

The problem is, even if you’re an anti-vaxxer conspiracist and don’t believe this and don’t install the update, you can’t use your device because of the incessant reminders that you better believe it.

So I installed the update. Then a message appeared that I must restart my phone to fnalise the installation. The problem was up until this point, the means of restarting the phone was to press and hold the button on the

Castle Rock Porongurup

Skywalk Riesling 2024 $28. This is the cheapest in the Castle Rock line-up and if you judge it alone you would think it was a pretty good riesling, which it is, if a bit brash and bold. But then you try the others and you wish you earned more. 9.1/10.

side and voila, electrons took over and rebooted the phone.

After the latest update, the side button no longer performed this function. It now summoned an AI ‘assistant’ asking “How can I help”?

“Rebooting my phone would be helpful, or at least tell me how to do it”, I asked politely, but evidently not politely enough as the AI bot rejoined “There’s no need to be like that”.

Castle Rock Porongurup Diletti Riesling 2023, $42. This is so taut you can hear it ping when you tap it. Quite austere yet quite alluring because of it. Oysters and nam jim would be a great combination with it. 9.5/10.

“Like what?”

“I’m sorry, I don’t understand that request”. I googled how to reboot my phone and received the message “Please reboot your phone to use this app”.

Okay, use another search engine...”This app requires three-factor authentication for your security, please login and a 6-digit code will be sent to your email address. ”

Finally, now we’re getting somewhere.

“You have fve minutes to

(Quarisa Wines) The Fox and the Grapes Organic Red Wine (Shiraz Merlot), NV, $15. You don't see too many nonvintage reds these days and it's a thing which always arouses suspicion, but this is surprisingly slurpable stuf for something so suspicious. Cunning buggers. 9/10.

enter this code and login to your account”.

Six minutes later, the code arrived. Snookered. How hard can it be? Don’t ask. There are many people in the world who don’t know how to use a roundabout and I am sure there’s a big overlap on the Venn diagram for them and software engineers. Next time just hit the “Remind me later” button and pour a glass of wine, perhaps another of one of these :

(Quarisa Wines) The Fox and the Grapes Red Wine (Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon) NV, $15. You don't often get to compare an organic wine next to a non-organic sibling so if you're a scientist and want to know the empirical truth (well, not exactly a rigorous scientifc experiment) then buy both to compare. If you want a truly scientifc experiment, buy 500 of them. 9/10.

WHATS ON THE MENU TO NIGHT?

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

Looking for a dinner that tastes like Grandma made it—if Grandma had a PhD in laziness and a slow cooker that did all the heavy lifting? This recipe is for you. It’s comforting, creamy, and loaded with dumplings that are basically edible pillows. Plus, you get to dump everything in a pot and walk away like some kind of domestic wizard.

Ingredients

For the stew:

1 kg boneless, skinless chicken thighs (aka chicken that’s already had a rough day)

1 onion, chopped (and cried over dramatically)

3 carrots, sliced (prefera-

For the dumplings (AKA foury clouds of joy):

150g plain four

1½ tsp baking powder (because science)

½ tsp salt

100ml milk

30g melted butter (don’t skimp—it’s basically happiness in liquid form)

bly while pretending you’re on a cooking show)

2 celery stalks, chopped (if you don’t have celery, lie)

3 cloves garlic, minced (or smacked with something heavy and therapeutic)

1 tsp salt ½ tsp black pepper

1 tsp dried thyme (not to be confused with “me time”)

1 tsp dried parsley (to make it look like you care)

1 bay leaf (optional, but mysterious)

750ml chicken stock (or whatever carton was in the fridge yelling “use me!”)

300ml cream of chicken soup (liquid comfort, straight from the tin)

Method to the Madness

Throw everything for the stew (except peas and dumplings) into your slow cooker. Stir once like you’re casting a spell, then walk away dramatically. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, de-

Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings: A Hug in a Bowl (With Less Commitment)

pending on how close you are to hangry.

Return heroically. Shred the chicken with two forks like you’re angry at your ex.

Stir in 1 cup of frozen peas for colour and to convince yourself this is healthy.

Mix dumpling ingredi-

ents in a bowl. It should resemble dough, not regret.

Plop spoonful’s of dough gently into the stew. No need to sculpt perfection— we’re not on MasterChef Put the lid back on. Cook for another hour, undisturbed. This is dumpling law.

Serve hot, with smug satisfaction and absolutely zero shame.

Tips for Total Glory

No cream of chicken soup? Improvise. Channel chaos.

Flat dumplings? You peeked, didn’t you. Rookie mistake.

Leftovers reheat like a dream—unless you live with scavengers. Guard accordingly.

Congratulations!

You’ve made Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings—a dish so comforting, even your anxiety will ask for seconds.

Neenish Tarts

The retro Aussie treat with a split personality—and zero chill.

Neenish Tarts are what happen when your dessert can’t decide if it wants to be classy or chaotic, so it does both. With jam, mock cream, and that iconic pinkand-brown icing, they’re the edible equivalent of a tea party and a disco colliding. Perfect for bake sales, nan’s birthday, or when you want to impress people with something that looks fddly but isn’t (shh, we won’t tell).

Prep1:00 Cook 0:15

Makes 6

Ingredients

Pastry:

150g plain four

1 tbsp icing sugar

90g chilled butter, chopped

1 tbsp chilled water

Filling:

2 tbsp raspberry jam

75g butter, softened

60g icing sugar

1½ tsp milk

½ tsp vanilla extract

Icing:

100g icing sugar

1½ tsp butter, softened

1 tbsp milk

Pink food colouring

1 tbsp cocoa powder

Method

Blitz four, sugar, and butter in a processor until crumbly. Add water, pulse to combine. Chill, then roll and cut into rounds. Press into tart tins. Bake at 180°C for 15 minutes. Cool. Spoon jam into bases. Beat butter, icing sugar, milk, and vanilla until fufy. Pipe over jam. Make icing, divide in half. Tint one pink, add cocoa to the other. Ice each tart halfand-half.

Serve with: A cup of tea and a big dollop of nostalgia.

New Parkinson’s Treatment Ofers Hope for Beter Quality of Life

Contributed

A promising breakthrough in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease is ofering new hope to the more than 150,000 Australians living with the condition. Researchers at Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health in Melbourne have developed a novel drug that could signifcantly improve movement and quality of life for people living with Parkinson’s. Unlike current treatments that lose efectiveness over time or cause distressing side efects, this new therapy shows potential to restore balance in brain activity and provide longer-term relief from debilitating motor symptoms.

What Is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological disorder that mainly afects movement. It is caused by the loss of dopamine-producing neurons in a region of the brain called the substantia nigra. Symptoms can include tremors, stifness, slowed movement, and balance problems, often worsening over time. Current medications, such as levodopa, help manage symptoms by increasing dopamine levels, but they often come with side efects like involuntary movements and can become less efective with long-term use. According to

Parkinson’s Australia, the number of people living with the disease is expected to double by 2040 as the population ages, putting more pressure on the healthcare system and families caring for afected loved ones.

A New Kind of Drug Target

The team at the Florey Institute focused their research on a specifc receptor in the brain called mGlu4, which helps regulate communication between neurons. By stimulating this receptor, the new drug helps restore balance between dopamine and glutamate systems in the brain, which is essential for smooth movement and motor control. In preclinical trials, the drug successfully reduced motor symptoms and had a longer-lasting efect than current treatments, without triggering common side efects.

Lead researcher Dr. Sarah Nicols explained,

“Rather than replacing dopamine, we are adjusting the balance between brain signals that control movement. This could be a game changer for people living with Parkinson’s, particularly in the mid-tolate stages of the disease.”

Benefts Beyond Movement

Aside from improving mobility, early fndings suggest the treatment may also have positive efects on mood and cognition, areas commonly impacted in people with Parkinson’s but often overlooked in treatment strategies.

“It’s not just about movement,” said Dr. Nicols. “People with Parkinson’s also experience depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. We’re hopeful this approach may support a more holistic improvement in quality of life.”

What’s Next for the Treatment?

The team is now

preparing for the next phase of research, which includes clinical trials in humans to test the drug’s safety and efcacy. While it may take several years before the treatment becomes widely available, the early results are encouraging The Florey Institute has also partnered with industry groups and international researchers to accelerate development and bring the drug to market sooner.

“Breakthroughs like this

highlight the importance of investing in brain research,” said Dr. Nicols. “With an ageing population, we must act now to improve the lives of Australians afected by neurodegenerative conditions.”

A Step Toward Independence and Dignity

For many living with Parkinson’s, the gradual loss of mobility and independence can lead to emotional distress, social isolation, and reliance on carers. A treatment that slows the progression or reduces symptoms could mean fewer hospital visits, reduced carer burden, and the ability for patients to live more fulflling lives.

National Seniors Australia welcomed the news, noting that research breakthroughs are critical for maintaining independence in later life

“This discovery is a

reminder that we need to support ongoing innovation in medical research,” said National Seniors spokesperson Ian Henschke. “Parkinson’s doesn’t just afect individuals—it afects families, workplaces, and communities. A better treatment could dramatically improve quality of life for thousands of older Australians.”

Supporting Research and Hope

Parkinson’s remains incurable, but this potential new treatment marks an important shift in how the disease might be managed in the future. With clinical trials on the horizon, hope is rising for those facing the challenges of Parkinson’s every day.

For more updates on the research and how to support ongoing studies, visit the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health or Parkinson’s Australia

DonateLife Week calls for lifesaving action as NSW organ and tissue donor registrations decrease by 11%

Around 1,800 people are currently on Australia’s organ transplant waiting lists. Falling donor registration rates costs lives – DonateLife is urging NSW residents to have a conversation about organ donation and to register now.

DonateLife NSW CoState Medical Director, Dr Michael O’Leary, is calling on all NSW residents to have the lifesaving conversation this DonateLife Week (Sunday 27 July to Sunday 3 August).

“If you’d say yes to a transplant for yourself or someone you love, it makes sense to say yes to donation too,” said Dr O’Leary. “Registering is a powerful way to help save lives, but it only works if your family

knows your wishes.”

In 2024, 42,040 people in NSW joined the Australian Organ Donor Register – this represents an 11% decline from the previous year. Currently, just 41% of NSW residents are registered*. Family consent rates are signifcantly higher when someone is registered and has spoken with their loved ones about their wishes. When a person is on the register, 4 in 5 families agree to donation. However,

whena person hasn’t registered or discussed their decision, families agree to donation in only 2 out of 5 cases.

Taking one minute to register this DonateLife Week– and having a conversation with your family – could save someone’s life. Register as an organ and tissue donor today at donatelife.gov.au or through your Medicare account, and make sure your family knows your decision.

YouRURAL NEWS

Rural Aid’s ‘Spirit of the Bush’ Photo Competition

CASINO

Prime Cattle Prices Strong at NRLX – 16 July 2025 Report

A total of 603 head of prime cattle were yarded at the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange (NRLX) on Wednesday, 16 July 2025, with solid prices recorded across most categories. The sale generated a total turnover of $1,263,432.61, with steers and cows dominating both volume and value.

Steers Lead in Value and Price

Steers were the standout performers, with 213 head sold for an average of $367.8 per kg, reaching a top of $444.2 per kg. Steers averaged $883.91 per head, with top returns pushing up to $2,443 per head, contributing a category total of $439,303.86 across 119,445 kg

Cows Dominate in Numbers

Cows made up the largest portion of the yarding, with 184 head sold. Prices ranged from $68.2 to $316.2 per kg, averaging $246.2 per kg. The average return per head was $1,174.68, with a high of $2,166. This category contributed the largest volume of beef, totalling 170,315 kg, and a total value of $419,361.12

Heifers and Bulls Also Perform Well

LISMORE

CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

Heifers also sold strongly, with 143 head ofered, achieving between $150.0 and $335.2 per kg, and an average of $288.3 per kg. Returns per head ranged from $149.58 to $1,910.64, averaging $669.92, with a total value of $245,192.23

Bulls fetched from $180.2 to $315.0 per kg, with an average of $281.9 per kg. A total of 34 bulls averaged $1,801.28 per head, reaching as high as $2,836.50, generating $66,647.45 from 23,640 kg

Vealer Bulls and Yearlings Steady

A smaller ofering of 12 vealer bulls achieved an average of $298.2 per kg, topping at $400.2 per kg, with individual returns up to $1,342.88 Meanwhile, a single pen of yearlings sold at $276.2 per kg, with a return of $943.68

Other Sales

Only one lot of bobby calves and one cow and calf unit were reported, with the bobby calf selling for $10 per head, and the cow and calf fetching $940

Strong Demand at NRLX Store Sale – 18 July 2025

The Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange (NRLX) saw strong buyer interest and competitive bidding during the Store Sale held on Friday, 18 July 2025, with 909 head

Of the Rails – Lismore Cattle Market Report

By Glenn Weir

Lismore Saleyards – Tuesday, 15 July 2025

A total of 700 head of cattle went through the ring at the Lismore Saleyards this week, with prices holding steady and in some categories improving, especially for wellfnished cows and quality weaner steers. As winter continues to bite, variation in condition among oferings was again noticeable, especially among younger stock.

Strong Demand for Heavy Cows

Well-fnished heavy cows were in strong demand, with prices climbing to $3.08/kg. Local producers Kerry Piper

WARWICK

LIVESTOCK MARKETS – WARWICK & DISTRICT REPORT Week Ending 18 July 2025

The arrival of colder winter weather and limited feed availability across local farms saw a reduction in yardings across Warwick and district saleyards this week. With oats crops under stress and many producers having already ofoaded numbers at the end of the fnancial year, total yardings were back across all categories. However, reduced supply helped frm prices, especially for fresh young stock and fnished lines.

CATTLE MARKET SUMMARY

A total of 1006 head of cattle passed through the yards this week, with averages showing frmness across the board and occasional rises in key categories:

Bulls averaged 282.6c/kg, topping at 369.2c/kg with returns from $1,222.30 to $3,217.50

Cows averaged 268.3c/kg, peaking at 330.2c/kg and returning $1,436.48 to $2,474.32

Feeder heifers sold between 310.7c/kg and 360.2c/kg, bringing $1,070.42 to $1,390.50

Feeder steers averaged 376.2c/kg, topping at 440c/kg, with returns of $1,473.62 to $2,063.00

Heifers averaged 321.9c/kg, reaching 347.2c/kg, returning $1,678.21 to $2,309.50

Manufacturing steers sold at 203.2c/kg, returning $1,402.08

Steers averaged 324.8c/kg, topping at 381.2c/kg, with prices from $1,790.91 to $2,401.81

Vealer heifers fetched between 302.1c/kg and 350.2c/kg, returning $665.38 to $1,208.19

Vealer steers showed strength, averaging 374.5c/kg, topping at

yarded across various categories. The sale generated an impressive $842,212.26 in total turnover, refecting solid demand for quality cattle, particularly in the steer and heifer categories.

Per Head Results: Big Results for Cows & Calves

Bulls: 1 head sold for $1,800.00

Cows: 5 head sold from $810.00 to $1,500.00, averaging $1,190.00

Cows & Calves: 16 units topped at $2,140.00, with an average of $1,414.72 across 36 lots

Heifers (per head): 2 sold from $1,480.00 to $1,700.00, averaging $1,516.67

Total value for per-head sales reached $88,780.00, with cows & calves drawing particularly strong prices due to continued restocker and breeder demand.

Per Kilogram Results: Steers Dominate in Volume and Value

Steers: 545 head yarded

Average price: 410.4c/kg, peaking at 475.0c/ kg

Average return per head: $1,063.09, with top prices hitting $1,770.45

Total value: $579,382.38

Heifers:

and Mark McAnelly led the charge, with Piper’s Senepol cow topping the cow yard at $3.08/kg, returning $2,034, while McAnelly’s Brangus sold for $3.02/kg, returning $2,011

Mid-range cows traded from $2.30 to $2.70/kg, refecting quality and fnish. Plainer cows, often showing the efects of the cold, wet season, sold between $1.70 and $2.40/kg, with re-stockers and fatteners active in this market.

Mixed Quality in Weaners, But Strong Results for the Best

There was a broad spread in quality among weaner cattle, largely infuenced by seasonal conditions. While some cattle presented in excellent condition, others clearly refected the ongoing wet winter.

Bill and Jenny Farrell topped the sale with their

440c/kg, for $833.52 to $1,182.50

Yearling heifers averaged 311.4c/kg, topping at 410.2c/kg, with returns of $924.74 to $1,722.84

Yearling steers averaged a strong 389.9c/kg, topping at 440.2c/ kg, returning $1,082.05 to $1,562.33

Average across the yarding: $1,216.26 per head

SHEEP & LAMB MARKET

Sheep and lamb yardings totalled 1468 head, with market strength across trade, butcher, and export types. Despite slightly lighter numbers, prices remained frm to dearer, especially for well-fnished lambs.

Lambs topped at $332/head, averaging $201.29 — up $26/ head from last week

Hoggets topped at $229, averaging $170.76 — up $27/head

Ram lambs reached $218, averaging $143.29 — up $21/head

Ewes eased slightly, topping at $271, averaging $123.60 — down $24/head

Wethers surged to $260, averaging $187.67 — up $44/head

Rams topped at $170, averaging $139.41 — up $17/head

Average across the yarding: $172.38 per head — up $5/head

SHEEP & LAMB REPORT HIGHLIGHTS – APL/ McDougalls

The Cooper Family once again set a new saleyard record, selling 64.8kg grain-fed, shorn Dorset lambs to Thomas Foods for $332

Other notable results:

Greenup Maryland P/S: 60kg Dorset lambs to Eversons for $315

Colin & Taylor Lockhardt: 50kg Dorset X lambs to Eversons for $225

Ron & Janelle Horton: 57kg Dorper lambs to Eversons for $257

360 head sold

Average price: 310.2c/kg, topping at 392.2c/ kg

Average per-head return: $719.93, peaking at $1,148.07

Total value: $259,173.68

Vealer Bulls: 2 head sold

Average price: 298.2c/kg, high of 330.0c/kg

Average return: $914.47, reaching up to $1,008.70

Total value: $2,743.40

Cows (by kg): Single pen sold at 228.2c/kg for $912.80

Market Summary

The standout performers of the sale were the light and medium-weight steers and heifers, which attracted strong restocker competition. The top-end steers surpassed 470c/kg, while quality lines of heifers achieved over 390c/kg Cows and calves were in keen demand from breeders, with the top price reaching $2,140.00 per unit, reafrming confdence in future herd rebuilding and ongoing interest in breeding stock.

In total, the sale moved 909 head of cattle across 307 lots, with 226,030 kilograms sold and an average per-head return of $926.53

Charolais cross steers, achieving $4.48/kg and returning $1,023 Terry O’Toole’s well-fnished Charolais yearlings made $3.70/kg, with an impressive return of $1,304

Lines of Angus steers weighing around 200kg consistently sold between $4.20 and $4.40/kg, indicating strong restocker interest in quality lightweights.

Steers with Bos Indicus infuence saw a broader spread in price, making between $2.80 and $3.70/kg, depending on condition and breed characteristics.

Heifer Prices Remain Steady

Heifer prices were largely consistent with recent sales. Better-quality lines made between $3.00 and $3.48/kg, while the bulk of heifers traded in the $2.40 to $2.90/kg range, refecting both buyer confdence and the ongoing infuence of seasonal conditions on presentation.

59.1kg Xbred lambs to Thomas Foods for $279

54kg Xbred lambs to GR Prime for $250

60kg hoggets to Eversons for $204

Balfour F/T: 47.8kg Dorper lambs to GR Prime for $208, 45.8kg to McMahon Bros for $219

Elder F/T: 43.9kg Dorper lambs to Leslie Lamb for $219, 44kg to Tony’s Supa Meats for $229

Linview Ag: 51kg White Dorper/Aussie White lambs to Eversons for $250

Greg & Clancy McGahan: 46kg Dorper lambs to GR Prime for $280, rams to Eversons for $139

Tom Sevil: Multiple lines of lambs and wethers to Eversons, McIntyre Meats, GR Prime, and Thomas Foods

Dayne & Michelle Barrett: 47.2kg Dorper lambs to Eversons for $225, lighter lambs to GR Prime for $197 and $102

PIGS & POULTRY MARKET

Pig numbers were down, but store pigs were more available: Boars: $60–$205 | Sows: $150–$262 | Porkers: $249–$294 Baconers: up to $297 | Store pigs: $66–$226

Poultry remained frm with strong buyer interest:

Silky Pullets to $42 | Pullets to $38 | Hens to $52.50

Roosters to $27.50 | Drakes to $22.50 | Ducks to $25

Turkey Hens to $40 | Turkey Stags to $20

Summary:

Despite cooler conditions and reduced numbers, the Warwick and district livestock markets held up well this week. With strong returns for cattle and another record set in the sheep and lamb section, vendors were well rewarded for their oferings. As winter progresses and feed remains tight, numbers may stay conservative, but buyer demand—particularly for quality stock— remains robust.

The annual Bizzy and Jomanda Brahman Sale is scheduled for

Saturday, 6th September 2025 at 11am, taking place at the Grafton

Saleyards.

Bizzy and Jomanda Brahman Studs are renowned across Northern NSW for producing high-quality stud and commercially focused Brahman cattle. With a long-standing presence in the industry. Bizzy and Jomanda studs continue to earn strong support from interstate buyers while maintaining their loyal base of local clients, spanning from the Northern Rivers to Kempsey and the Tablelands.

Bizzy Brahmans is proud to present a select line of 20 outstanding Brahman bulls, true representatives of the strength behind our breeding program. These bulls are in prime condition, carrying the natural thickness, sound temperament, strong toplines, and desirable carcass traits that set Bizzy Brahmans apart.

Whether you’re looking to power your stud program or produce high-performing F1 replacement heifers and steers for the weaner market, these bulls will be a valuable asset to any operation.

Bizzy Brahmans invites any current clients

and any new clients to discuss their breeding and marketing options with Innes, and we welcome you anytime to our property ‘Rocky Creek’ to visit and inspect our heard.

Jomanda are thrilled to ofer the frst release of calves by our exceptional

new sires, Fairy Springs Royal Flush ($200,000), Kandoona Lockhart ($60,000, deceased) and Ai sire Kariboe Valley Ventura ($120,000). These bulls are a standout in both pedigree and performance. Bred from their elite bloodlines

and selected for their outstanding structure, temperament and genetic traits, these sires are already making their mark through our herd, with claves displaying impressive muscle development, early growth and balance confrmation. These carefully selected sires have produced a sale team of 90% polled bulls but still maintaining carcass and fertility qualities that bull buyers demand.

As well as focusing on producing a high-quality line of commercially focused red and grey bulls for sale this year, Jomanda also has a focal point for data collection to ensure buyers are choosing bulls with good eye appeal and carcass qualities, but also backed by raw data. These bulls are all supported by a strong

set of EVB’s to ensure our customers purchase the right bull for their herd needs. To assist our commercial clients, we have started monitoring our birth-weights and gestational lengths to help reproductive traits and calving ease.

Unfortunately, due to weather circumstances Bizzy and Jomanda Studs have chosen to withdraw sale heifers from this year’s sale.

This year the Bizzy and Jomanda Open day at their respective studs will be held on Sunday 24th August 2025. A great opportunity to inspect the sale bulls in a relaxed environment. The sale will be conducted by agents Donovan Livestock and Property, Grafton and George and Fuhrmann, Casino. StockLive Elite will also be taking bids online for the day.

Farmers in Drought Waiting Over a Year for Loan Scheme Response

Ian Rogers

Farming bodies urge urgent action on concessional loans and RIC review

Australia’s peak farming organisations are calling on the Federal Government to urgently respond to two critical policy measures afecting drought-stricken producers—amid growing frustration over prolonged silence on the future of the Regional Investment Corporation (RIC) and the delayed response to a major independent review of its operations.

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF), backed by Australian Dairy Farmers, NSW Farmers, Victorian Farmers’ Federation, and Primary Producers SA, has issued a unifed demand: deliver a formal response to the Independent Review of the Regional Investment Corporation Act 2018 and extend concessional loan capacity beyond 30 June 2026.

Rural Aid’s

The RIC, which was created to provide lowinterest loans to farm businesses, has played a vital role in drought resilience, helping nearly 3,400 farm enterprises and saving them more than $354 million in interest repayments since its inception in 2018. A Review Left Gathering Dust

The Independent Review , completed in July 2024 , highlighted concessional loans as efective policy tools for supporting viable farm businesses through drought and disaster. It recommended that RIC remain the delivery body for such fnance. But more

than 12 months later, no ofcial response has been provided.

“The review was handed down on 1 July 2024. Since then, we’ve heard very little from the Government on the RIC’s future. It’s gathering dust while drought-afected regions struggle to grow crops in dust,” said NFF President David Jochinke

“RIC loans aren’t handouts. They’re lifelines that give producers fnancial breathing space to recover and prepare for the next drought.”

Dairy and Cropping Regions Facing Dual Extremes

The situation is

particularly acute for Australia’s dairy farmers , with over 40% currently in drought, and some in NSW also battling the aftermath of a 1-in-500year food event.

“Farmers are facing crippling fnancial pressure—soaring feed and water costs, and weak milk prices,” said Australian Dairy Farmers President Ben Bennett. “The RIC must be a tool for disaster resilience, and action is needed now.”

In South Australia, multiple regions are now entering a third consecutive year of drought Primary Producers SA is pushing for not just an extension of the RIC’s capacity, but enhancements to its efectiveness, including:

•Truly concessional interest rates

•Faster processing times

•Expanded eligibility for restocking, debt relief, and infrastructure repair Calls for Certainty to Support Regional

‘Spirit of the Bush’ Photo Competition Returns to Celebrate Life on the Land

Running from 14 July to 31 August 2025, the much-loved competition provides a powerful platform for rural and regional Australians to tell their stories through the lens, stories of rugged beauty, resilience and community spirit in the face of hardship. This year’s competition comes after another challenging season of natural disasters, with foods, fres, and droughts once again testing the resolve of the nation’s rural heartland. “Every

year, we are humbled by the entries we receive, each photo is a tribute to the unwavering spirit of our farming families and communities,” said Rural Aid CEO, John Warlters. “The Spirit of the Bush competition is more than a showcase of talent. It’s a reminder of the grit and determination that keeps rural Australia going, even through the toughest of times.”

Entrants are invited to submit a high-resolution, landscape photograph that

represents the true Spirit of the Bush. Photos can be submitted via Instagram or Facebook by tagging @ruralaid in the image and using the hashtag #SOTB2025. Entries can also be submitted, and the competition terms and conditions can be reviewed via our website at https:// www.ruralaid.org.au/ spirit-of-the-bush/. A panel of judges will select ten winning images, each of which will receive a $250 prepaid Visa card. Winners will be announced on 15

September 2025. “This is a celebration of the people and places that make our regions special,” Mr Warlters said. “Whether it’s a hardworking farmer, a storm rolling across a paddock, or a quiet moment at sunset, every image has the power to connect Australians with the bush.” Rural Aid encourages everyone with a passion for photography and the country to pick up their camera and show the world what the Spirit of the Bush means to them.

Recovery

For rural leaders like Brett Hosking of the Victorian Farmers’ Federation, the stakes go beyond individual farmers.

“When the farm sector thrives, so do regional communities. We need certainty about the RIC’s future to support not just farms but the small businesses and footy clubs that depend on them.”

NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin reinforced that 94% of RIC recipients are familyowned businesses, using the loans for everything from machinery upgrades to climate resilience.

“The RIC is not just about keeping the farm running— it’s about keeping the family farm alive for the next generation.”

Government Progress

— But Key Gaps Remain

While the farming sector acknowledges that some progress has been made —including government visits to drought-hit regions, new funding

for the Rural Financial Counselling Service , and the announcement of the 2025 National Drought Forum—the two major requests remain unanswered:

•Immediate extension of the RIC’s concessional loan capacity beyond 30 June 2026

•Formal response to the RIC Act review, which the NFF requested within the frst 60 days of Government taking ofce

“We’re concerned that producers have had to fnalise their FY26 budgets without knowing whether concessional lending will be available or what form it will take,” Mr Jochinke said.

The farming community now awaits clear action from the Federal Government, warning that inaction not only jeopardises farm businesses but the longterm sustainability of Australia’s regional economy

Rural Aid’s ‘Spirit of the Bush’ Photo Competition

Farmers in Drought Waiting Over a Year for Loan Scheme Response

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Sprawling across just over 900 acres of rolling hills & picturesque landscape

Featuring an outstanding custom built 5 bedroom sandstone block homestead, thoughtfully positioned to capture the uninterrupted views across 1 8km of Clarence River frontage

Excellent equine facilities including a 6-horse capacity Ezywalker, 6-custom built stables, 3-bay shed equipped with vet room, tack room & laundry 2 Bedroom self contained workers cottage Located 35 minutes to Grafton, 80 minutes to Yamba, 1 Hour 30 minutes to Coffs Harbour Airport

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Cowan: 0438 735 061

Barnsley: 0490 776 889

Growing the Best Indoor Plants and How to Care for Them

Jef Gibbs

Indoor plants are more than just decorative— they purify the air, lift your mood, and create a calming, natural atmosphere in your home. In the Northern Rivers region, where the climate is warm, humid, and lush for much of the year, many tropical and subtropical species thrive both outdoors and inside. With the right plant selection and care, you can build a thriving indoor garden that refects the vibrant biodiversity of our region.

Top Indoor Plants for the Northern Rivers

The Northern Rivers’ subtropical climate is ideal for species that enjoy warmth, fltered sunlight, and high humidity. These plants are all well-suited to indoor life in Ballina, Byron Bay, Lismore, Tweed Heads, and surrounding towns.

1. Monstera deliciosa (Swiss Cheese Plant)

This iconic plant has large, fenestrated leaves and thrives in bright, indirect light. It grows rapidly in warm conditions and benefts from regular misting, especially during dry spells.

2. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

Peace Lilies are forgiving, low-maintenance plants that tolerate lower light and indicate when they need water by drooping slightly. They also fower indoors, adding a pop of white against deep green foliage.

3. Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)

A designer favourite, the Fiddle Leaf Fig needs a bit more care but performs beautifully near a sunny, well-lit window. Keep it away from drafts and rotate it weekly for even growth.

4. Devil’s Ivy (Epipremnum aureum / Pothos)

Ideal for hanging baskets or shelf displays, Pothos is virtually indestructible. It’s perfect for beginners and thrives in most indoor environments, adapting well to varying humidity levels.

5. Calatheas and Prayer Plants

These patterned beauties enjoy indirect light and thrive in the naturally humid conditions found in the Northern Rivers. Their leaves move throughout the day in response to light,

ofering a dynamic display.

6. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)

Another tropical favourite, the rubber plant enjoys bright light and can grow into a striking indoor tree. Allow the top layer of soil to dry before watering and wipe leaves regularly to keep them healthy.

Indoor Plant Care Tips

• Lighting: Most indoor plants prefer bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight, especially in summer, can scorch leaves. Consider positioning your plants near east – or southfacing windows.

• Watering: The golden rule is: when in doubt, wait it out . Overwatering is the most common cause of plant distress. Let the top 2–5cm of soil dry out before rewatering.

• Humidity: While the Northern Rivers naturally supports higher humidity, heating and air conditioning can dry out indoor air. Mist your plants or place them near a bowl of water or a pebble tray.

• Feeding: During the growing season (spring to early autumn), feed plants every 4–6 weeks

with a balanced liquid fertiliser.

• Pest Control: Common pests like fungus gnats or spider mites can be controlled using neem oil or by adjusting watering practices.

Creating an Indoor Oasis

Whether you live in Mullumbimby, Casino, or Murwillumbah, the Northern Rivers’ unique climate provides an ideal setting for cultivating beautiful indoor plants. By choosing the right varieties and tailoring your care routine to their needs, you’ll enjoy a lush, green haven in every season. Indoor gardening not only enhances your space—it fosters mindfulness, creativity, and connection to nature from the comfort of home.

Water Features

Desert Theme

Tropical Theme

In Loving Memory

Russell Frederick ROSE

Imogen, Yale and Levi, beloved great-grandfather to Kane, Ezekiel and Anakin.

COOTE, GEOFFREY CLIVE

(Pa Geoffrey)

12/10/1952 – 19/07/2025 72 Years

22/11/1956 – 13/07/2025

68 Years

Passed away suddenly. Devoted husband of Agnes. Son of Albert & Eillen (Both Decd) Dear Brother and Brother-In-Law of Ron, Damien, Mark, Tim, Chris, Francis, Mary and their families. Loving Uncle to 27 Nieces and Nephews.

Now re-united with mum, rest in peace, we love you dad and poppy.

HOLBOROW

Richard Bertram

16.7.1933 – 18.7.2025

Passed away peacefully, at Lismore Base Hospital, after a short illness, aged 92 years.

Dearly loved husband of Patricia, for 61 years.

Cherished father & father in-law of Susanne & Andy Ricketts, John & Emily, and Sebastian. Adored grandfather of Alex, James, and Harry.

A Perfect English gentleman who lived life to the full. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

Family & Friends are invited to the Requiem Mass, for the repose of the soul, for Richard, to be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 126 Canterbury Street, Casino, Monday 28th July 2025, commencing at 11:00 AM. Followed by interment at the Casino Lawn Cemetery Reynolds Road Casino.

Passed away peacefully at Lismore Base Hospital.

Loving Father and Father-In-Law to Jamie & Nerissa and Kristy & Gavin.

Adored Pa to Tahlia, Joshua, Thomas, Izabell, Zoelee and Hunter

Caring Great Pa to William ‘A good friend to all that knew him. ’

Family and Friends are warmly invited to attend Geoffrey’s Funeral service at Baptist Care Church, Corner of Canterbury & West Street, Casino. On Wednesday (30th July 2025). Commencing at 11.00am.

This page dedicatedis to all those that have passed

Family and Friends are warmly invited to attend a Requiem Mass at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Canterbury Street, Casino. On FRIDAY (25th July 2025). Commencing at 10.30am.

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

Funeral Notice

In loving memory of Ursula Louise Sullivan Nee Hannigan 05-12-1930 - 17-07-2025 94 years

Passed away peacefully at Casino Hospital

Loved wife of Kevin

Adored mother and mother-in-law of Peter & Kylie, Bernie & Loretta, Tony (deceased), Margaret, Geraldine & Mark, Rose & Stuart, Liz & Geoff, Matt & Bonnie

Loved Grandmother to 15 Grandchildren

Loving Great Grandmother to 10 Great Grandchildren

Family and friends are invited to attend Ursula’s funeral service to be held at the Catholic Church Casino at 10.30am on Thursday 24th July 2025. Following the service the cortege will proceed to the Casino lawn cemetery.

This service will be live streamed, please contact Simplicity Casino for details.

Formerly of East Lismore, Russell was most recently residing in Alice Springs with his family.

Rooftech Roofing Services For Everything Roofing

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COMMUNITY NOTICES

must be emailed to community@heartlandmedia.com.au before 3pm Fridays Phone numbers only, no email addresses. Get the word out about your Club, Membership, Events, etc

ALSTONVILLE

CRAWFORD HOUSE MUSEUM

Visit Crawford House Museum, an original farmhouse where you can see many interesting household objects which reflect family life from the beginning of the 20th century to the 1960s. There are also research facilities for information about Ballina Shire, as well as books about local history and other great merch. for sale. If you’re a support worker and you bring a client to the museum, your admission is free. And if you enjoy meeting and greeting visitors to our lovely part of the world, welcoming visitors to the museum is most rewarding. If you’re interested in joining our team of hosts for three hours a month, email us or drop in to the museum on Fridays. Crawford House Museum is at 10 Wardell Road Alstonville and is open on Fridays between 10am and 4pm and Sundays between 1pm and 4pm or at other times by appointment for groups.

Quilters Alstonville

We are called Plateau Quilters Alstonville we meet the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the Month at the RSL Hall Alstonville from 1pm until 4pm New members would be most welcome. Bonner 66298267

Alstonville RSL

Alstonville RSL sub-Branch meets on the second Saturday of the month, with morning tea at 10am followed by the meeting, then a light luncheon from 1200. All ex-service persons and families are welcome to attend the lunch.

ALSTONVILLE BRANCH OF THE RED CROSS

The Alstonville Red Cross branch meets monthly in Alstonville. As meeting dates sometimes vary, please call Carol on 0424 742 774 for details of our next meeting.

ALSTONVILLE PROBUS CLUB

Alstonville Probus Club meets on the last Thursday of each month at Plateau Sports Club at 10.00 am. This commences with a cupper and chat, with the formal meeting commencing at 10.30 which includes an interesting guest speaker. All visitors are welcome.

ALSTONVILLE QUOTA CLUB

A local women’s service club that meets on the 1st Tuesday of the month at the Plateau Sports Club. Quota is committed to supporting and improving the physical and mental wellbeing of the disadvantaged in our community through local projects.

EMBROIDERERS GROUP

Meetings are 9.30am-1.30pm, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays and 2nd Saturday of each month. Our venue is the Resource Centre at the rear of Crawford House Museum, Alstonville. We welcome embroiderers of all ability levels to meet, share and learn.

THE RETURNED AND SERVICES LEAGUE OF AUSTRALIA NSW Branch

ALSTONVILLE SUB-BRANCH

Alstonville RSL sub-Branch will now hold their monthly meetings on the second Wednesday of the month at 11am at the RSL Hall, 13 Bugden Ave (next door to the Alstonville Medical Centre). All ex-Service persons are welcome to attend, and we have a convivial morning tea on completion of the meeting. Alstonsuppliers andBranch have a ‘Lower Deck Luncheon’ at 1200 each Friday, everyone is welcome, we sit out the back of the Hall, order lunch from local suppliers, and have great conversations with good mates. There is always plenty of support & advice on any issue!

BALLINA

BALLINA COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB

LIVE COUNTRY MUSIC DAYS of the Ballina Country Music Club happen on the first Sunday of every month except January. The August Live Music Day is on Sunday, 3 August at Ballina RSL Club, Grant Street, Ballina, starting at 10.00 am. Smokehouse” one of our popular regular bands, will be playing. Bill Bullman is the feature Showcase Artist. And there are many regular and some visiting Walk Up Artists. The experienced line dancers demonstrate their skills and others take to the floor dancing however they want! There are great ra le and lucky door prizes, as well as Club members’ and Walk Up Artists’ draws. Come along and enjoy the company and music.

PROBUS CLUB OF BALLINA WATERS

The Probus Club of Ballina Waters will hold its next monthly meeting on Wednesday 16 July at the Cherry Street Sports Club commencing at 10.00 a.m. There will be no guest speaker at this meeting as members will adjourn after the business session to a French restaurant to celebrate the French national day Regular activities include the monthly lunch on the last Friday of the month. The day at the races in

June which was cancelled because of a wet track has now been rescheduled for August. This club is a mixed club and both men and women are invited to join us for a range of interesting social functions. Further information is available from the Secretary Brian on 0432277170.

BALLINA LADIES PROBUS CLUB

The Ballina Ladies Probus Club meets on the first Wednesday of each month at 10:00 am at the Ballina RSL Club. We currently have vacancies for new members and warmly invite visitors to join us for our monthly meetings, outings, and events all centred around fun, fellowship, and friendship. At our August meeting, we will be joined by Guest Speakers Peter Taylor and James Brownlee from “Medisleep”, who will share valuable insights on Sleep Apnoea awareness and treatment. We are also excited about our trip to the Hare Krishna Farm and Vedic Yoga Sanctuary on Wednesday, 20th August. Nestled in the beautiful foothills of Mount Warning, the day will include a guided tour of the farm, a visit to the temple, a delicious lunch, and a chance to learn about the Vedic lifestyle.For more information about our club or upcoming activities, please contact our President, Jeanette, at 0407 417 470. We look forward to welcoming you to our club!

Ballina Photography Club meets on the first Thursday of the month at Northlakes Community Centre, 1 Mulloway Place, Ballina from 6pm to 9pm.We are currently looking for new members and visitors are always welcome. We are a group of enthusiastic photographers who live in and around Ballina. Members share a common interest in photography and have monthly outings to take photos and share images at meetings. Please contact our President Lyn on 0412 758 697

Ballina Meals on Wheels

Knitting and Crochet for Charity Group run by Ballina Meals on Wheels. Group held Monday mornings in Ballina and open to people who are 65years and older. $5 includes morning tea. Call Kristen on Ph: 0419 679719 for more information.

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A NEW HOBBY??? COME AND JOIN THE HEADLINERS CHORUS We are an all-female group of all ages who love to sing “Acappella” in 4-part Barbershop harmony. We are well known in the Northern Rivers community and would love you to join us. Come along to a rehearsal on Monday nights from 7pm and for more information see our website or enquire to Tracey Ezzy on 0438 446 809

BALLINA ARTS & CRAFTS CENTRE INC. (BACCI)

We are a diverse group of Artists and Crafters that participate in wonderful group exhibitions. Over 50 members are from all over the Northern Rivers. Meetings are usually on the 1st Tuesday of every month at the Cherry Street Sports Club. Social gathering at 5, for a 5.30 start. Ph: Rosie 0438401716

BALLINA BRIDGE CLUB

Social play every Monday 9am to 11:30am.”. Sessions for all levels of players on Mon, Wed, Sat from 1pm to about 5pm. Be seated at 12:45. Restricted session (under 300 Masterpoints) Thu 1pm – about 5pm. Friday mornings, Help with Play on Fri am times 9am - 11:30. Open to anyone who would like some help with their game from teachers on duty. 9am to about 11:15pm Sessions are $5 for members and $7 for visitors at 13 North Ck Rd, Ballina Call Judy Forsyth: 0407664337.

Ballina Coastal Quilters

We meet at the North Lakes Community Hall in Whiting Way, Ballina on a Wednesday twice a month from 9 am to 2 pm. The group gives opportunities for friendship, support, and socialisation. and to celebrate our creative achievements in the area of quilting and related stitchery. We encourage our members to seek and share knowledge of their skills. New members would be most welcome. The cost is $5 per session Georgia 66876834

BALLINA EVENING VIEW CLUB

Meets on the second Wednesday of each month at the Ballina RSL Club at 6.30 for dinner at 7pmGuests are always welcome. Our members support the education of disadvantaged children in Australia by fundraising activities and social events in our local community for The Smith Family - by sponsoring 5 Learning for Life students. Ph: Julie Stephan 0434988770.

BALLINA FREE COMMUNITY HOT BRUNCH

Ballina Free Community Hot Brunch, First Saturday of each month.

Everyone is invited to come and enjoy a hot brunch of sausages, rissoles bacon & eggs, cereal, tea and co ee. Or just come for a chat. Frozen take away meals available. Held at the Ballina Presbyterian Hall Corner of Cherry & Crane St Ballina 10AM TO 12PM Carol: 0438812235

BALLINA LIGHTHOUSE RSL DAY CLUB

A Day Club for elderly and isolated people in our community, held every Thursday at the Richmond Room Ballina. Enjoy morning tea and a mental stimulation exercise like Tai Chi, followed by lunch and afternoon musical entertainment. Every Thursday 10am to 2pm cost $10 Richmond Room, Regatta Avenue Ballina RSVP Lorraine Fox 66874350, 0439301249

BALLINA SENIOR CITIZENS BRIDGE CLUB

BALLINA TOY LIBRARY

Welcomes families from Ballina Shire. 9 Regatta Avenue, Ballina. Open Tuesdays 1pm - 3pm, and Saturdays 10am1pm. Ph. 0411719074.

IN FOCUS TOASTMASTERS CLUB

How about trying something di erent? If you would like to improve your communication and leadership skills or simply make new friends and have fun, you are warmly invited to attend the In Focus Toastmasters Club. We meet the 3rd Wednesday evening of each month. You may attend either from the comfort of your own home via zoom or join us in person at the Cherry Street Sports Club, Ballina.

Broadwater

Dungarubba Country Music at Broadwater Hall Saturday 26th July

11.30- 4.30 Entry $5 including afternoon tea Lunch available Lucky Door Ra les Variety of Artists Enquires Joy 0400 372 948

BRUNSWICK HEADS

BRUNSWICK VALLEY VIEW CLUB

Brunswick Valley VIEW Club’s monthly luncheons are held at Brunswick Heads Bowling Club on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 10.30am for 11am. Apologies to Wenda on 0449 563 580 no later than the Monday before. VIEW stands for Voice, Interests and Education of Women. The club supports seven disadvantaged students in The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program. 1800 805 366 CASINO

CWA Casino Day

Our next meeting is at the Casino Community Centre 9.00am Thursday 121st August (3rd Thursday of the month). The Land Cookery entry for July is a plain butter cake and Microwave strawberry Jam. All cookery/recipe enquiries -Ellie Maloney 0421595398. Everyone is welcome, come and have a cuppa, meet new people and see what we are doing in our community. Enquires Margaret Good 66621746, Jane Flick 0427 707 669.

WINDARA Volunteers will once more be holding SOUP and SWEETS with BINGO at the function centre 253 Sextonville Road, Casino. DATE 30 July at 10.30 am. Cost is only $25 which covers soup, dessert and bingo prizes. The Volunteers hope to raise money towards new equipment for the Cafe. Bookings can be made by ringing Windara 66623800 or by calling into Casino Artisan Giftshop after 22nd July. Come out and enjoy a day with Windara’s friendly sta , visit the nursery or take a walk around the gardens, before catching up with friends playing bingo. Please remember your bingo marker pen. Fairy Hill Craft group is on again, Thurs. August 7th, 10 a.m. at the Fairy Hill Hall on the Summerland Way. Continue with your usual craft work. SHOW and TELL: Bring a rare or unusual item tell its story or ask for guesses about its origin. PH Sue 66633233 for more details.

CASINO SENIOR CITIZENS

All members are invited to our ‘Christmas in July’ Luncheon on 26th July at Casino RSM Club commencing at 10.30am. Members will need to pay $10 for the day, please call Jan if you intend to come along. Remember numbers are required for catering purposes. Lunch will be a 2-drop meal of Roast Pork or Roast Lamb and vegetables. If you have any special dietary needs, please let Jan know. Will be a fun day out! Don’t forget to call and book your place! Jan Danaher on 0414625680 Our next bus trip will be on 6th September when we are travelling down to Southgate to visit an Alpaca farm for morning tea and then on to Lawrence Hotel for lunch. Interested? Call Jan on 0414625680

CASINO CHARITY CASH BINGO

. We have also been able to assist some other needy community members in a small way. Must admit I find the continued support of Charity Bingo overwhelming and to be able to return all monies raised to help members of our very own community is very humbling! If you would like to come along and join us each at Casino RSM Club each Thursday mornings 10.00an or Thursday evenings 7.00pm, you are most welcome! Great cash prizes! For any enquiries please don’t hesitate to contact Jan Danaher on 0414625680.

CWA CASINO EVENING BRANCH

We meet on the first Thursday of the month at 6pm at the Uniting Church Hall, Canterbury Street, Casino. Our aim is to improve the lives of women and families, especially in rural areas, while having fun in the process. We are also involved in local and regional social issues, policy, and decision-making. We also do handicrafts, cooking and social outings. Join us for a cup of tea and discover the work we do and the fun we have. Contact Carolyn 0403699055 or Jane 0419172019 for further information.

DYRAABA HALL BUS TRIP

The Dyraaba Hall committee will host a bus trip to the Carrara Markets and Pacific Fair, Gold Coast on Saturday 9th August. Cost is $30 and includes morning tea. There will also be ra les. Bus departs Dyraaba Hall 7am, Charcoal cnr. 7:20 and Casino Post O ice 7:30. Bookings and enquiries please Phone Veronica on 66671101. All profits after expenses will go towards the maintenance of the hall.

Line dance Line dance classes in Casino at St Marks Hall beginners welcome 5pm every Monday first 2 classes free. Info call or sms Lorraine 0418264489

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN LEARNING to KNIT, SEW or CROCHET We are looking for interested people who would like to join a class to learn Through the School Holidays both Adults and Children are welcome Starting 6th Jan 2025 Classes will be organised once we have enough interested people Call Margaret 0488 245 029 or Jacqui 0419 404 216 to express your interest and get more information

CASINO MEALS ON WHEELS

Volunteers needed Our delivery runs are Mon-Fri

WEEK 3

MONDAY

V.Gray & N.Nowlan

R.Baker

TUESDAY

S.Forrester R.Dempster

WEDNESDAY

C.Connor

N.& K.Ryan

THURSDAY B. Bennett

FRIDAY

Richmond Valley Council

E.Solway

Casino Meals are desperately needing Volunteers, to contact the o ice on 66621217. Volunteering once a month for 1hour or so

CASINO COMMUNITY MEN’S SHED Mon, Tues, Wed, attendance limited to 50 members, 8am-1.30pm. Contact 66626423

CASINO & DISTRICT FAMILY HISTORY GROUP INCW are open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am to 2pm, Wednesdays from 12pm to 4pm and every third Saturday from 9 am to 11.30 am. We are in Room 5, Upstairs in the School of Arts building in Walker Street, Casino. Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month at 10 am. For a small fee we can do research for you as well. Call 6664 1118

Cassino Gallery Inc.

148 Barker St. Casino. Open Thursday to Saturday 10am to 3pm during exhibitions. Regular exhibitions, workshops, classes, and some markets during the year. Contacts Ralph 0418 485 770, Laszlo 6662 1943, Meg 0435 111 463. Artists, professional/amateur welcome to enquire about exhibiting their work at the Gallery.

CASINO LADIES AND FRIEND CRAFT GROUP Meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday of each month. Bring your own morning tea. Names to be in by lunch time Monday. Phone Vivian on 66621838 or Jan on 66626424.

Casino & District Orchid Society

Meet the 4th Thursday each month. At St Marks Anglican Hall @ 6:30pm

CASINO MINI RAIL

Every Sunday we are now open from 9.00am to 2.30pm every Sunday (weather permitting). West Street Casino. Phone 0455673722.

CASINO MIXED PROBUS CLUB

Our Meeting is on fourth Thursday of each month at Casino RSM Club at 10:00am. Contact Kathleen Gri ins, President phone 0427622470 or Daphne Boyd, Secretary phone 0400070085.

CASINO UNITING CHURCH

CAFÉ PRAISE…. Every Wednesday @ 10-11am. All Welcome 10am Morning Tea Fellowship. Welcome and Chat 10.30am Praise and Worship

CASINO VIEW CLUB

Monthly luncheon meeting at Casino RSM Club at 11am, second Thurs of every month. Contact Jan on 0418715374

CASINO AA MEETING – ID MEETING is held every Tuesday 12:00-1:30pm At the Casino Baptist Church, corner of West & Canterbury Streets Casino. Newcomers welcome. Contact George 0427 133 372.

CASINO AA WOMEN’S MEETINGS

Held every 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month, 12 –1.30pm at the Casino Baptist Church House, 137 Canterbury St, Casino. Contact Liz 0427133370.

LION’S CLUB CASINO

Lion’s Club meeting is held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday each month at Casino RSM Club from 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start. Denise Green 0448014682

LISMORE CASINO NAVAL ASSOCIATION

Meets bi-monthly at Casino RSM, new members welcome. Ph: Chris 66293269 or Jim 0427400625.

THE PLATYPUS RSL DAY CLUB operates every Tuesday at the Community Centre from 10am to 2pm. The day consists of gentle exercises,

mental stimulation, games, and entertainment. Members are asked to pay $7 for their morning tea and lunch. Transport can be provided within the town limits. If you are feeling socially isolated or just need a day out, please contact Robyn on 66623871. New members are welcome.

Eltham

ELTHAM MASONIC LODGE - The Eltham Masonic Lodge welcomes all masons, to attend their monthly meetings, which are held on the fourth Tuesday, each month at the Eltham Masonic Centre. The meetings commence at 7.30 pm. If you are not a mason and are interested in joining Freemasonry, for more information please visit our website or phone 0416530456

EVANS HEAD

EVANS HEAD SEAGULLS CRAFT & QUILTERS

GROUP Meet every Tuesday 9am-12noonin the Recreation Hall (opposite the Kiosk). We invite you to join us for a relaxing morning of crafting, friendship and sharing ideas. Beginners are very welcome. Finishing UFO’s, Embroidery, Gold Work, Hexagons, & Group Projects are just some of the crafts done.

The Rotary Club of Evans Head Markets held on the Last Saturday of the month held at Cribb Reserve opposite Illawong Hotel at 8am - 1pm. A vast variety of stores from clothes, candle, Honey Photographs, books, and Organic Vegetables along with Rotary Bacon & Egg Rolls

Rotary Evans

Rotary Evans Head holds meeting the 1st and 3rd Monday of the month 5.30pm at Evans Head RSL downstairs in remembrance room. New members warmly welcomed. Cont. Sue 0438853921

EVANS HEAD CWA BRANCH meets every third Tuesday for lunch at noon. New members welcome. More info 0419 753 579

EVANS RIVER RSL DAY CLUB

The Evans River RSL Day Club meets each Monday in the Remembrance Room at Club Evans RSL Evans Head from 10am until 2pm Cost $10 includes Morning Tea and Lunch. We have several vacancies for volunteers and members, anyone who is feeling in need of some company are welcome to attend. Come along and join in the fun. Contact Merilyn 0401493316.

GOONELLABAH

TABLE TENNIS AT GOONELLABAH

Tuesday and Thursday mornings social playing: 9am-12noon; Monday and Wednesday nights social playing: 7-9pm; Training Monday mornings: 9am-12noon; Junior coaching after school Wednesday 3.30pm-4.45pm, $6 a session. Everybody is welcome – all levels. Phone centre on 66251602. Mon-Thurs 9.00am-1.00pm

THE PROBUS CLUB of Goonellabah meets on the 3rd Thursday of each month at the Workers Sports Club in Oliver Ave. All welcome. Goonellabah Probus is solely a social club. We have a guest speaker each month and go for outings throughout the year. Meetings on Thursday commence at 10am and finish at midday. For further information, Liz 0451 020 241

GRAFTON

GRAFTON AL-ANON FAMILY GROUP

Grafton Al-Anon Family Group hold their meetings weekly on Tuesdays at 12am - 1.30pm at the Salvation Army Hall, 91-93 Oliver Street, Grafton. Meetings are confidential. The Al-Anon Family Groups are a fellowship of relatives of Alcoholics who share their experience, strength, and hope in order to solve their common problems. We believe alcoholism is a family illness and that changed attitudes can aid recovery. Al-Anon is not allied with any sect, denomination, political entity, organization, or institution; does not engage in any controversy neither endorses nor opposes any cause. There are no dues for membership. Al-Anon is self-supporting through its own voluntary contributions. Al-Anon has but one purpose: to help families of alcoholics. We do this by practicing the Twelve Steps, by welcoming and giving comfort to families of alcoholics and by giving understanding and encouragement to the alcoholic. For further information or to talk to a member in confidence call 1300 252 666

Grafton CWA Centenary in 2026

Grafton CWA will be celebrating its centenary in 2026. We have started putting together a centenary cookbook with some of our favourite recipes and would love to include some recipes from former members and their families- perhaps family recipes that have been passed down for a few generations, with a piece of information or photo. If you have any recipes that you think are suitable, please could you contact Lesley McFarlane ph. 66445442 or Sharron Davison ph 0409363248. Please make sure that they are original recipes. We will also need help from members of the community closer to the time, in order to be able to display information and photos of our 100 years. We would like to have a large display highlighting the contribution made by Grafton CWA branch to the local community, and there is plenty of time to start looking for old photos, old newspaper articles, Grafton CWA memorabilia or anything at all that could be of interest- we will put out a request for them nearer the date when we should be back in our CWA Rooms and have access to storage.

Meetings of Grafton CWA are held on the 2nd Friday of each month at GDSC, starting with morning tea at 9.30am and meeting at 10am. Handicraft mornings are held on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month- 9.30am, at the Salvation Army Hall, Oliver St. Bring along any type of craft and enjoy meeting other people with similar interests.

GRAFTON’S MIGHTY CLARENCE TOASTMASTERS CLUB

Perhaps it’s time to find out what it’s all about! If you would like to improve your communication and leadership skills. Make new friends and have fun, you are warmly invited to attend the Mighty Clarence Toastmasters Club. We meet on the 1st & 3rd Wednesday evening of each month. You may attend either from the comfort of your own home via zoom or join us in person at the Joan Muir Community Centre: 194 Turf Street, Grafton.

GRAFTON SENIORS BE FIT EXERCISE CLASSES

Every Friday at the Uniting Church, Prince Street. Join us for gentle exercises designed for Seniors. We meet at 10.30a.m. for a cuppa and a chat with the exercises commencing at 11. All equipment is provided and there is no cost to the participants. Further information can be obtained from Chris 0400490691 or Dot on 66423248 or 0477213017 Grafton VIEW Club

Grafton VIEW Club meets on the 4th Tuesday each month at Grafton District Services Club, Mary Street, commencing at 10.30am. Please come along & enjoy yourself with a tasty meal, motivated guest speaker & at the same time you will help disadvantaged children. Please phone Helen at 6642 3867 for catering purposes no later than the Friday before the meeting. As well, a social outing is held each month. You are warmly invited to come along, have some fun & you will be helping others as well. See you there!

CLARENCE RIVER HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Clarence River Historical Society- Schae er House Museum.

190 Fitzroy Street Grafton. 2460. Phone 0266425212.We are welcoming many visitors through the museum, often from interstate and on bus trips, not only to see our wonderful collection of artefacts gathered over 90 years but also to research family history and/or places of interest in the Valley. Research Room hours are from 9 to 3 Tuesday to Thursday and Museum hours are from1 to 4 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Other times can be arranged. Admission is $6 for adults and $3 for children. If you would like to become a member of our Society and receive our interesting newsletters contact the Secretary, Robyn. Membership fees are $27 yearly.

HASTINGS POINT

HASTINGS POINT COMMUNITY CHOIR

Do you enjoy singing. Our repertoire covers a variety of music styles – both unison and part singing We would love you to join us. New members needed. You will be made most welcome When: Tuesday Evenings from 7pm – 8.30pm Where: Tricare Residential Village Community Room Tweed Coast Road, next to Shell Petrol Station. For more information, contact Jean Berry 0414794380

PROBUS CLUB OF HASTINGS POINT - The Probus Club of Hastings Point Tweed Coast meets at Hastings Point Tricare resident’s lounge, on 3rd Tuesday each month, commencing with a guest speaker at 10am. Retirees and seniors are welcome to join this happy social group. Phone the Probus president Di Mills 044 732 5387 for more information.

KINGSCLIFF

KINGSCLIFF 500 CARD CLUB

Kingscli 500 Card Club. Monday and Wednesday afternoons 1pm to 4pm Cudgen Surf Club New players WELCOME Contact: GARY 0499869992

Kingscli Probus Club

First Wednesday of the month, 10am to 12 noon in the function room of Kingscli Bowls Club. We have an interesting guest speaker each month plus bus trips to various points on the map each third Wednesday of the month. Retirees and seniors are most welcome to join us in this happy social group. Ph Marlene 0428323736

KYOGLE

KYOGLE WRITERS GROUP

Kyogle Writers Group meets on the last Saturday of each month and we welcome newcomers. We meet at the Roxy Lane back. entrance to the Kyogle Memorial Institute (Supper Room). Our aim is to provide support and encouragement for those new to writing, as well as more experienced writers. We practice many genres of writing poetry, memoir, and journaling to name a few. Morning tea at 9.30am is followed by our meeting from 10.00am till 12.00 pm. Throughout the year we have planned some wonderful writing workshops facilitated by local authors. For further information contact Vince on 0459 574179 or Susan on 0414 958245.

KYOGLE TIDY TOWNS FARMERS MARKET Held every Saturday morning in Stratheden Street from 8am -12. Come along grab some local fruit

& veggies, experience all Kyogle has to o er. New Stall Holders welcome. Ph: Anne 66321851

LION’S CLUB OF KYOGLE

Meeting is held on the 1st & 3rd Tuesday each month at the Kyogle Lion’s shed from 6.30–7pm. Contact Neville Moon on 0448222334.

RICHMOND RIVER BEEF PRODUCER’S ASSOCIATION

Meet on the 2nd Wednesday of every month at Kyogle Showgrounds in the luncheon room at 7pm.Ph: Jan on 0427293455.

KYOGLE BAZAAR

Fourth Saturday of every month. See Kyogle Bazaar on social media for all the details or call 0459512249.

LENNOX HEAD

LENNOX HEAD EVENING VIEW CLUB

Meets on the second Tuesday of each month upstairs at the Lennox Hotel at 6.30pm for dinner at 7pm. Guests are welcome. “VIEW members support the education of disadvantaged Australian children by raising much needed funds for The Smith Family. Through fundraising activities and social events in local communities, members raise money that goes directly to The Smith Family’s learning and mentoring programs for disadvantaged. Students.” Lennox Head Evening VIEW Club currently sponsors two Learning for Life students’: Sue Brennan 0409728814.

LENNOX HEAD LIONS CLUB

New members welcome to join our close-knit club where the emphasis is on community service in a fun environment. Meetings are on the first and Third Wednesday of each month at Club Lennox starting at 6.30pm. Members do what they can, when they can to facilitate the needs of our club.

PROBUS CLUB OF LENNOX HEAD

Meets 9.30 for 10 at Club Lennox, 10 Stewart Street, on the first Thursday of each month. Visitors are welcome, also retired, or semi-retired people wishing to join our non-service club to hear interesting guest speakers and to join in trips and outings are invited along. Ph: June Zentveld on 66871004

LISMORE

LISMORE CWA

CWA LISMORE We once again would be thrilled to hear from anyone interested in becoming a Member of the Lismore CWA Branch sessions each Tuesday from 10:30am. for Membership enquiries call Helen Dargin on 0438 828 619 or for Craft call Vicki Boyle on 0437 465 642.

LISMORE CROQUET CLUB inc Become a NEW Member for information call 6622 6030 & leave a message with your contact details: Thank you Mondays: 8.30 - 10.30am onwards “unless a ected by weather”. Croquet Practice for members with Phyllis, call or txt to confirm. M: 0429122353.Wednesdays: 8.30 - 11am Ricochet Croquet.Thursdays: 8.30am Golf Croquet. 11am - General Monthly Meeting (Members only). Friday: Evening Socials 3.30pm – Each Friday for Members and their Invited guests, (cancellation ONLY if raining). Contact Jan to confirm, call 0423322064

Lismore Garden Club meets on the 2nd Thursday of each month at the East Lismore Bowling Club, commencing at 1pm. The Club has guest speakers, visits to members’ gardens and enjoy a morning tea and friendship whilst taking in the beautiful gardens. Day trips away are also on the agenda from time to time. There is the opportunity to display something special such as a particular flower or produce each month. New members are most welcome. For further information, contact the Secretary, phone 0416 281 365.

AA MEETINGS

Lismore RED DOVE AA Meetings, Every Monday, Wednesday & Friday 12 Noon and Sundays 10.30am. Upstairs in The Uniting Church, cnr of Keen St & Woodlark St Lismore. Disability lifts available. Newcomers welcome.

LISMORE LIBRARY Library Afterschool

Lismore Children’s Library is launching a new program of after-school activities called Library Afterschool. This term, we invite local children to get involved in PAPERCRAFT and LEGO activities. All sessions will be fun, free, low-key and inclusive, facilitated by your friendly Lismore Children’s Library sta . PAPERCRAFT 3.30pm-5pm at Lismore Children’s Library, first and third Tuesday of the month.Papercraft will include learning to draw, making origami and scissor-and-glue crafts. LEGO 3.30pm-5pm at Lismore Children’s Library, second and fourth Friday of the month Explore our excellent LEGO collection. Alternating themed and free-play sessions.The Northern Rivers Lodge No. 77 meets on the 2nd Wednesday of each month (except in January) at the Lismore Masonic Centre, 111 Magellan Street Lismore. We welcome all Masons to an enjoyable and entertaining evening. Inquiries 0412665674

LISMORE CRAFTS & QUILTERS

You are invited to join, LISMORE CRAFTS & QUILTERS. We meet on Mondays at the Lismore Uniting Church, Red Dove, Hall 9.30am - 12.30pm. We do Patchwork, Quilting & all Crafts. We also

have night group, who meet at McLean Ridges Hall, Monday evenings, 5.30pm - 9pm. Cost is $30 for the year & $5 each Monday. Looking forward to seeing you. Enquiries to Margaret Boxsell 0427141425

LISMORE LIONS CLUB

Please save your used stamps to raise funds for The Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation. Stamps are collected & forwarded on to be sorted & sold at Auction, to raise money for Children’s Mobility contact Margaret Boxsell on 0427141425

Lismore City Bowling

Lismore City Bowling and Recreation Club Community BINGO every Monday morning 10 am to 12 noon. Morning tea and Progressive Jackpot. All welcome. Phone 66 21 5991.

LISMORE CITY CONCERT BAND

Rehearsals are held during school terms on Mondays, 6.15-7.45pm at Southern Cross University. If you can play a concert band instrument: brass, woodwind, or percussion, please come and join us! All ages welcome. We have some instruments available for loan. Ph: 0432575911

LISMORE MEN & COMMUNITY SHED

President: Mr Bob Greig 0404860504 publicity o icer Don Abrahams 0437576837

Opening Hours: Tuesday & Thursday 9.00am – 3.00pm We are a community based non-profit organisation. Everybody is welcome: men, women & people with a disability of all ages. We encourage social inclusion. Our aim is to promote the mental, physical & emotional well-being of people in our community. Shed Activities Members work on their own projects, Mentoring is available, General woodworking, Welding & light engineering, Repair & restoration of items for the public Constructing projects, of items for the public Constructing projects for preschools, hospitals & other organisations Assembling flatpack, Minor maintenance work for the elderly & disabled, working with the disabled, talking with other members or simply having company. Memberships: $40-year Attendance Fee: $3 tea/ co ee 15 Industry Drive East Lismore

LISMORE ORCHID SOCIETY INC

City of Lismore Orchid Society Inc. Meetings are now at the Lismore Show Ground, In Norms Kitchen under the Members Grandstand. Alexandra Parade, North Lismore. NSW 2480 Meeting Date; the first Saturday of the month Meeting Time: 9:30am display plants set up, 10:00am meeting starts with a cuppa after. Contact President Mr. Steven Muldoon 0427789773

Orchid meeting involves the sharing of information, knowledge and friendship. All welcome. Lismore City Bowling and Recreation Club Community BINGO every Monday Morning 10am to 12 noon. Morning tea and Progressive Jackpot. All welcome. Ph 6621 5991

LISMORE SENIOR CITIZENS

Meet at the Goonellabah Community Centre every second Thursday starting at 9am where we have morning tea followed by games bingo how etc we play cards Monday and Friday and play bowls Tuesdays and craft every second Tuesday afternoons come and join our friendly group you will be very welcome.

LISMORE SPINNERS & WEAVERS

Please join us…... Weaving, Spinning, Felting, Dyeing, Knitting, Crochet, Workshops, Chat…. Sharing Craft & Ideas.From 10am, on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Fridays of each month. (Formal business meeting is 10.30-11.30 every 1st Friday) McLeans Ridges Hall Cnr Cowlong and McLeans Ridges Rds. (o Bruxner Hwy)

Morning Tea provided. Bring your lunch (and a mug) Contac: Kim: 0423935060, Linda: 0419489987

LISMORE TARGET RIFLE CLUB for .22 calibre rifles, meets Wed nights from 6.00pm (setup time) & the 1st & 3rd Sat of each month from 12.30pm (setup time). Air rifle shooting for .22 & 177 air rifles will also be available at the Saturday shoots. For more information, please phone Derek on 66282082 (ah).

CO-DEPENDANTS ANONYMOUS (CoDA)

Co-Dependants Anonymous is a Twelve Step Fellowship of people whose common purpose is to develop healthy relationships. The only requirement for membership is a desire for healthy relationships.The CoDA meeting in the Lismore area meets on Mondays from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Riverland’s Drug and Alcohol Centre. 75 Hunter Street, Lismore. For further information call 0456178826 or 0408336143

EAST LISMORE BOWLING CLUB

Community Bingo Tuesday night 7.30pm start. 20 games of bingo + progressive jackpot Neilson Street East Lismore. Everyone Welcome

EAST LISMORE SOCIAL TENNIS

Social Tennis is played at East Lismore Tennis Club, Cnr Neilson St & Oakley Avenue every Tuesday from 8am. We invite social players of all abilities to join us, we are a mixed group who enjoy a morning’s tennis without the commitment of competition. Ph: Fay Ross 0412910487. Everyone welcome.

MAINLY MUSIC Fun, interactive, music sessions for young children

[birth to school age] and their parents/caregivers in a relaxed setting on Tuesdays starting at 9:30am during School Terms. Children will be introduced to music, creativity and more. They will develop gross motor skills, as well as socialise with others in a loving, shared family environment. Morning tea with snacks included. Mainly Music at Lismore Anglican Parish Centre, 10 Zadoc Street, LISMORE. T: 0266213200

PROBUS CLUB OF LISMORE HEIGHTS

Our mixed group meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month at the Lismore Heights Bowling Club in High St. Our brief meeting is followed by morning tea and a guest speaker. Senior’s lunch for $15 at noon is optional. Guests and visitors are welcome. Ring/text Roslyn on 0437606674 for details of our other monthly social gatherings and outings.

ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE NETWORKING

Want to be part of an innovative, interesting, and inclusive networking group who meet fortnightly to share ideas, meet other professionals and work together to make a di erence in your community? Then Rotary Club of Lismore Networking could be the answer for you! Meets on the 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month at 5.30pm at The Civic Hotel (210 Molesworth Street Lismore). Ph: Rita on 0413300578 or Gae 0412742095.

ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE WEST INC

East Lismore Bowling Club each Thursday at 6pm. New members would be made most welcome. Further information available on 0428151934.

ROTARY CLUB OF SUMMERLAND SUNRISE

Interested in contributing to community? Local and international?

The Rotary Club of Summerland Sunrise meets every Friday at 7.05am for Breakfast at Red Dove Café 80 Keen st Lismore. Join us please. Ph: 0435990919

SUMMERLAND AMATEUR RADIO CLUB

Meetings of the club are normally held on the second Sunday of each month at the clubrooms: 412 Richmond Hill Road, Richmond Hill at 1pm. Visitors are welcome. The clubrooms are usually open on Sunday afternoons from about 1pm onwards. We are primarily amateur radio enthusiasts and welcome persons interested in radio, electronics, astronomy, and similar subjects.

SUMMERLAND BONSAI SOCIETY INC

Come and learn an addictive hobby with us. We provide personal support from experienced teachers as well as demonstrations and Bonsai information.

Club days are held on the second Saturday of every month at 1pm in the Red Dove at Lismore Be inspired about the art of creating little trees. Ph: 0438103601

ZEN and INSIGHT MEDITATION - Lismore Heights INSIGHT (VIPASSANA) MEDITATION and practice: This mindfulness-based meditation group sits on Wednesdays from 7:00-8:30pm. The evening includes meditation instructions, sitting and walking meditation, Dharma talks and discussion. For further details, please contact Rosie - 0402 682 925. Beginners and experienced meditations are warmly welcomed.

ZEN MEDITATION and practiceThe Zen meditation group sits on Mondays from 6:30pm-8:15pm. If you wish to attend

MACLEAN

MACLEAN VIEW CLUB

Monthly meetings the 3rd Thursdays of each month at 11am. Contact Ruth Toyer on 0409844212 by Mondays, no later than 7pm. Numbers are required for catering purposes.

MCLEANS RIDGES

MCLEANS RIDGES CRAFT GROUP meet at the McLeans Ridges Hall, Cowlong Road, McLeans Ridges on the 2nd Saturday of each month from 9.30am to 3.30pm. Scrapbooking, card making, paper craft, knitting whatever takes your fancy. Come along for an enjoyable day. Bring your own morning tea and lunch. Co ee, tea, milk provided. A small fee to cover hall hire. Ph 0401 047 513.

MURWILLUMBAH

The Northern Rivers Collectors Club Inc are holding their 33rd Exhibition & Trading Fair @ the Murwillumbah Civic Centre on Sunday 10th August 8.30am to 2pm, entry Adults $6 Child $1 There will be antiques, vintage, retro & modern collectables, such as, China, glassware, tools, fishing & garage items & old bottles. The Rotary Club of Mt Warning AM Murwillumbah will be running a BBQ snacks & refreshments. Proceeds from this event will be donated to Tweed Palliative Support Inc. Details Ph Trevor 0439 779577.

COMMUNITY PRINTMAKERS MURWILLUMBAH Fine art printmakers. Meet at studio space 224 Stokers Rd, Stokers Siding. Prints, gallery, workshops and more! Ph: Peter 0498399640 or Sue 0408493253.

MURWILLUMBAH COMMUNITY GARDEN

Members and visitors are invited to join the group for activities and gardening tips most Sundays. Time 3-5pm, street parking, BYO, covered footwear, comfy clothing, hat, and water. Children ok with strict supervision. Covid plan operating. Ph:

Bob Johnson (02)66225792.

POTTSVILLE

Alcoholics Anonymous: Is drinking costing you more than money? AA works and is very active in Pottsville. We meet every Thursday 7pm at St Marks 15A Coronation Ave Pottsville and local contact 1800 423 431 or 04019 45671

POTTSVILLE FUN CROQUET CLUB

Meets at Black Rocks Sports Fields on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8.30am. New members are welcome to come and join us for a hit and a bit of fun. For any further enquires please call Jean on 0431606375.

TWEED HEADS

Poets and writers on the Tweed meet every Tuesday at the South Tweed Sports Club 1.30-3.30pm. Beginners welcome. Phone 0755248035.

TWEED HEADS PROBUS CLUB

Probus Club, Coolangatta/Tweed Heads. Be at Club Tweed at 10-00am on the first Wednesday of the Month. Visitors and new members are very welcome.

TWEED PATCHWORK GROUP

Meet the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month at South Tweed Community Centre from 9-1pm at 18 He ron Street Tweed Heads south all beginners welcome phone Moira on 0418686643. A friendly group of people with common interest in seeing, quilting and related craft.

TWIN TOWNS DAY VIEW CLUB VIEW as in Voice, Interests, Education of Women (Not many people are aware of what ‘VIEW’ club stands for!) AND NOT ONLY IN NAME: We are a group of ladies who care what will become of our youth! Our heritage – Their heritage – It is sad but true that many of our young people have no direction in their lives. Every morning, we wake to the news that violence has occurred overnight in what was once considered a safe neighbourhood. How do these o ending children/ youth feel the next morning knowing they have caused so much heartache - is this why we also hear of youth harming themselves so they can spread the pain? So, this is where VIEW Clubs and other similar clubs are starting from the bottom of the ladder by providing much needed funds to educate our youngsters so they will WANT to become the very best person they can not only in education but in their community and being proud of themselves and giving their parents hope for their child’s future. We at TWIN TOWNS DAY VIEW CLUB PROVIDE THE NECESSARY FUNDS to educate just 7 of these children. We know not where they come from, but someone in their community has contacted THE SMITH FAMILY and they in turn contact VIEW CLUBS OF AUSTRALIA who anonymously contact a VIEW Club who in turn take over the responsibility for these worthy children’s fees and so year after year their tertiary fees are paid. These fees are raised by VIEW Club members who attend meetings, listen to interesting guest speakers, and regularly have days out at each other’s homes – so FUN and a tremendous satisfaction of knowing we are helping our future generation. More information can be gleaned by contacting our President Kathie on 0407709629.

YAMBA

YAMBA LIONS CLUB

Yamba Lions Club’s meetings are held 2nd & 4th Thursdays of month at Yamba Bowling Club, commencing at 7pm for 7.30pm. For further information, please contact the Secretary Peter 0417546097. Social outings also held at various time and visitors and new members’ welcome.

ALL NORTHERN RIVERS

NRCF WOMEN’S GIVING CIRCLE

The Northern Rivers Community Foundation (NRFC) is inviting Northern Rivers women to play an active role in empowering vulnerable women and girls in our region. The newly formed NRFC’s Women’s Giving Circle brings Northern Rivers women together to achieve equality and human rights for women and girls in our region and enable them to realise their full potential. Ph: 0499862886

The NORTHERN RIVERS HASH HOUSE HARRIERS is a non-profit community group that is part of a worldwide organisation. The Hash House Harriers meet every Monday at 6pm for a run/walk from various locations around Lismore, Alstonville, and Ballina. The run/walk lasts for approximately an hour, followed by friendship, banter and grub. We are very friendly and welcome new members.

NORTHERN RIVERS NAVAL & MARINERS ASSOCIATION

This association was formed to attract veterans for companionship, wellbeing and to supply advocacy to veterans. We hold an informal gathering every Friday, 2.30pm at Ballina Angling Club (families are welcome). Ph: Allan Watt: 0402 749 582

ALL AREAS

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS If you’re looking for help to stop drinking, you can reach out to Alcoholics Anonymous 24 hours a day. Our phone line is always answered by someone who’s been where you are – an alcoholic in recovery. We understand the challengers and we know we’re the right people to help you. You can call AA anytime on 1300 22 22 22.

WEATHER

FORECAST

Northern Rivers District:

Cloudy. High chance of showers, most likely in the morning and afternoon. Light winds. Thursday. Mostly sunny. The chance of morning fog inland. Slight chance of a shower. Light winds becoming south to southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h during the afternoon then becoming light during the evening.

Northern Tablelands District:

Cloudy. Very high chance of showers, most likely in the morning and afternoon. Winds north to northwesterly 15 to 25 km/h tending west to northwesterly during the day then becoming light during the evening.

Thursday. Mostly sunny. Slight chance of a shower. The chance of morning fog. Areas of morning frost on and west of the ranges. Light winds becoming south to southwesterly 15 to 20 km/h during the day then becoming light during the afternoon.

New South Wales:

Scattered showers in the across the coast ranges and slopes, becoming isolated across the western plains. Showers may tend widespread at times about the Northern Tablelands. Snow falling about the Alps above 1100 metres. Morning patchy frost about the southeast. Daytime temperatures above average in the east, and below average west of the ranges. South to southwesterly wind in the west, north to northwesterly in the east before a south to southwesterly wind change moves up the coast during the afternoon, fresh at times.

Thursday. Chance of showers in the east with the slight chance of a storm on the northern coastal fringe, dry and sunny for the remainder. Shower developing in the far west during the evening. Patchy morning frost across and west of the Divide. Patchy morning fogs about the ranges, adjacent slopes and southern border. Daytime temperatures average if not slightly below. South to southeasterly winds in the fresh, fresh on the coastal fringe. Southwesterly in central parts tending northeasterly in the far west.

Byron Coast: Winds: Northerly 15 to 20 knots tending northwesterly 10 to 15 knots during the evening. Seas: 1 to 1.5 metres, decreasing to 1 metre during the afternoon or evening. Swell: Easterly 1.5 to 2 metres. Weather: Partly cloudy. 90% chance of showers. The chance of a storm.

Coffs Coast: Winds: Northerly 15 to 20 knots shifting west to southwesterly 10 to 15 knots during the evening. Seas: 1 to 1.5 metres, decreasing to 1 metre during the afternoon or evening. Swell: Easterly 1.5 metres inshore, increasing to 1.5 to 2 metres offshore north of Coffs Harbour. Weather: Partly cloudy. 90% chance of showers. The chance of a storm.

Gold Coast Waters: Winds: North to northeasterly 10 to 15 knots turning northwesterly below 10 knots during the day. Seas: Around 1 metre. Swell: Easterly 1.5 to 2 metres. Weather: Partly cloudy. 90% chance of showers. The chance of a storm.

Newcastle Jets bring A-League action to Lismore for flood recovery support

Lismore to host Jets vs Roar preseason match as part of 2025 Jets:TOUR

The Newcastle Jets will take on Brisbane Roar in a special preseason exhibition match at Lismore’s Crozier Field on Saturday, 9 August 2025, as part of the 2025 Jets:TOUR powered by Greater Bank. The visit aims to show solidarity with food-afected Lismore and nearby communities, combining football with a spirit of recovery and connection.

This year’s Jets:TOUR will include visits to Lismore, Taree, and Port Macquarie, with a jam-packed schedule of Jets:PLAY football clinics, school visits, open training sessions, and community engagement events. But the headline event is the clash between the Jets and Roar A-League Men’s teams in a rare regional preseason showdown.

A return to A-League action in Lismore

The match marks the

frst A-League preseason fxture in Lismore since 2013, when Brisbane Roar met Melbourne Heart. This year, locals will see a revamped Newcastle Jets squad, led by new head coach Mark

Milligan, and featuring exciting signings like Kota Mizunuma (Japan) and Joe Shaughnessy (Scotland).

Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg welcomed the news with enthusiasm, stating:

Recognising our Local Sporting Champions

Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan is making sure that 19 young Clarence Valley Sporting Champions are given every opportunity to follow their dreams.

At a Local Sporting Champions Award event today, Mr Hogan presented the local teenagers with a certifcate in recognition of their achievements and confrmed their grants from the Local Sporting Champions program.

“Those who received

the Awards have excelled themselves representing the Clarence Valley on the national and state stage,”

Mr Hogan said.

“The Local Sporting Champions program provides fnancial assistance to young people aged between 12 and 18 years to compete, coach or umpire in their chosen sport.”

“The Clarence Valley has produced some outstanding sportspeople in the past, and it is important that we

support the next crop of our local sporting talent.”

“Unfortunately succeeding in sport doesn’t just take talent and determination – parents also often have to put their hands in their pockets to get their children to competitions. I’m very pleased to be able to help these families with fnancial support through these grants.”

“Sport is important in the development of young people: it teaches them life-

long skills like teamwork, keeps them ft and healthy, and allows them to excel in something they love and enjoy.”

“I encourage any budding champions out there who have the opportunity of competing at a state, national or international event to apply for a grant by contacting my ofce or checking out the website ausport.gov.au.”

Our latest Clarence Valley Sporting

WEEKLY SPORTS RESULTS

Northern Rivers Sports Round-Up – Croquet & Golf Results

= Cherry Street Croquet Club Results

The Cherry Street Croquet Club continues to deliver competitive and enjoyable matches across both Association Croquet and Golf Croquet, with recent results highlighting strong performances in both club and regional competitions.

= Association Croquet

P. Waters def. S. Hume – 17 to 7

G. Drew & T. Hume def. B. Hardy & P. Hume –26 to 13

S. Hume & P. Hume def.

G. Drew & Bev Bill – 11 to 9

= Club Championships –Division 3 Golf Croquet Singles

1st Place: Bev Bill

2nd Place: Brenton Bill = Northern Rivers Area Level Play Singles Championships

1st: D. Scott

2nd: M. Russo

3rd: J. Hannigan

4th: S. Daley

The Club extends a warm invitation to new members of all ages and skill levels to come and give croquet a try. Friendly competition and community spirit are at the heart of every game.

=Cherry Street Croquet Club – Join the action and enjoy a game in great company!

= Coraki Veterans Golf

Results – Thursday, 17

August 2025

A fantastic turnout of 56 veteran golfers took part in an 18-hole single stableford event at the Coraki Golf Club, with strong scoring across the board and great sportsmanship throughout.

Major Results

Winner: K. Rogers

2nd Place: L. Bonner

3rd Place: B. McDonald

Free Game Draw: J. Nilsson

= Chicken/Ball Winners G. Donaldson, D. Bullock, J. Perkins, J. Celich, R. Earnshaw, J. O’Brian, N. Blake, T. McBurney, J. Sauer, D. Wells, J. Keim, T. Foster

“Lismore is a proud sporting community and hosting this A-League preseason match is a fantastic opportunity to showcase our world-class facilities and the incredible passion of our local football fans.”

Community at the heart of the tour

The Jets’ outreach refects a deeper commitment to regional NSW. Jets General Manager Matt Starr noted the importance of engaging with food-impacted communities:

“We hope this tour can help give back to our fans and bring the communities together as they rebuild.”

The Greater Bank has extended its support as the Jets’ major community partner for the 11th

consecutive season, enabling the club to bring clinics and events to grassroots fans.

Greater Bank Regional Manager Scott McCluskey said:

“As a regional bank, we’re proud to stand with the Jets to create this memorable experience for communities like Lismore.”

2025 Jets:TOUR –Lismore Details

=Jets:PLAY Clinic

=Oakes Oval, Lismore

=Saturday, 9 August =4:30pm = Exhibition Match: Newcastle Jets vs Brisbane Roar

=Crozier Field, Lismore =Saturday, 9 August =Kick-of 3pm =Tickets on sale from Tuesday via Oztix

Champions are:

l Alice Howlett from Jackadgery, Hockey

l Amy-Leigh Morrison from Yamba, Netball

l Asher Nikas from Yamba, Netball

l Beau Green from Yamba, Rugby Union

= Nearest the Pin

3rd/12th: J. Larkin

6th/15th: B. Kerrison

Next Thursday, 24

August 2025, the club will travel for an interclub visit to Woodburn Evans Head Golf Club

For non-travelling members, an 18-hole single stableford will still be held at Coraki, beginning with a shotgun start at 8:30am

=Great turnout, great golf – see you on the green next Thursday!

— Till then, good golfng!

– Max

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

l Connie Pavlovic from Maclean, Netball

l Eamon Mawn from Yamba, Rugby Union

l Eleora Nichols from Maclean, Netball

l Evie Green from Yamba, Netball

l Freya Meade from Wooloweyah, Swimming

l Gracie McLennan from

Yamba, Netball

l Ian Burgess from Gulmarrad, Swimming

l Jacob Hadley from Grafton, Hockey

l Logan Jefcoat from Yamba, Netball

l Lottie Wiseman from Yamba, Swimming

l Olana Plunkett from Wooloweyah, Netball

l Ruby Zammit from Gulmarrad, Netball

l Serge Lobsey from Waterview Heights, Hockey

l Skylah Cunningham from Gulmarrad, Netball

l Tayla Campbell from Yamba, Netball

Mayor Steve Krieg with Newcastle Jet’s head coach Mark Milligan.

kevinhogan_grafton sporting champs

Rebels plead for mercy

By Tim Howard

The South Grafton Rebels invoked the Group 2 Rugby League mercy rule to end their match 13 minutes early after the Nambucca Roosters racked up 60 unanswered points at McKittrick Park on Sunday.

In one of the most comprehensive foggings the Rebels have received, the Roosters ran in 12 tries and converted six of them before Rebels captaincoach Todd Cameron threw in the towel.

The Group 2 premiers dominated from the outset, controlling every position on the feld. They were on the board in the seventh minute when lock Jack Margetts

sprinted up the middle untouched to link with centre Dane Saunders.

Desperate defence dragged him down a metre from the line, but Margetts slipped into dummy half and scooted away from the markers to score a few metres in from the left touchline.

It set the pattern for the day, with the Rebels unable to contain the Roosters’ ofoads once play broke down. Roosters half Logan Jones, who tormented the Rebels all afternoon with his speed and ability to ofoad, crossed next with an 80-metre solo try.

Rebels fullback Sam Petch gave chase for most of the run but couldn’t run him down. Soon after, a promising

Rebels attack broke down deep in Nambucca territory, and the Roosters struck again.

Centre Jay Melrose sprinted down the right touchline, drawing defenders in, then ficked a perfect backhanded pass to winger Dwayne Roberts-Jarrett, who few 60 metres down the sideline to score.

With the conversion successful, the Roosters led 14–0.

Another Rebels error on attack was punished moments later.

This time Saunders stepped through soft defence and dashed 60 metres to the line.

The Roosters’ fnal try of the half broke from around 40 metres out.

Jones found Margetts

in support, who sprinted clear before passing to fve-eighth Tyrone Roberts-Davis, who strolled in untouched under the posts.

The Rebels dug in to keep the Roosters out for the fnal 10 minutes of the half, but by the time the siren sounded they were out on their feet.

The second half quickly turned into a bloodbath.

Three minutes after the restart, fullback Isaac Jones sprinted 60 metres up the middle to score.

The conversion pushed the lead to 32–0.

Now threatening close to the line as well as from deep, the Roosters rolled forward.

Rugged prop Eric Leisha crashed over from a short ball out of dummy half.

Another conversion made it 38–0.

Melrose then broke away again down the right fank and sent Roberts-Jarrett on another 50-metre sprint to the line with a perfectly timed fick pass.

From there, it became a procession as the Roosters tore the Rebels defence apart with second-phase play and sharp passing. When second-rower Brodie Simons crossed for his second try in a matter of minutes, the Rebels had seen enough and called for mercy.

It was an abject performance from a side admittedly missing several key players.

But it must have been galling for the loyal home crowd to see their team unable to compete with

one of the competition’s front-runners—despite sitting fourth on the ladder.

The game was a catchup from the washed-out Round 5. Unfortunately for the Rebels, they’ll face the Roosters again this Sunday, this time away at Nambucca.

The Grafton Ghosts fared little better against ladder leaders Woolgoolga, going down 56–16.

The Sea Horses ran in 10 tries to three, as the Ghosts struggled to match the intensity of the top side.

Like the Rebels, the Ghosts now face the daunting task of a rematch—this time at Frank McGuren Field on Saturday.

The Rebels’ defence fails to put a Nambucca ball runner on the deck, allowing him to fnd a support player with an ofoad.

REBELS PLEAD FOR MERCY

Rugged Panthers

Punish Ghosts

The Rebels’ defence fails to put a Nambucca ball runner on the deck, allowing him to fnd a support player with an ofoad.