The Northern Rivers Times News Edition 264

Rates structure proves a prickly problem

Tim Howard

If you’ve ever wondered why the subject of council rates is so thorny for so many people, sitting through Clarence Valley Council’s latest debate on the issue would explain a lot.

What began as a proposal from Cr Cristie Yager to explore alternative rating models quickly morphed into a heated and, at times, personal clash over who understands the system, who should be making decisions, and how much trust should be placed in council staf.

Cr Yager’s motion — debated at the July council meeting — asked staf to prepare three distinct alternative rating structures for the 2026–27 budget cycle.

Each would include fnancial modelling, community impact assessments, and alignment with council’s long-term fnancial strategy.

A councillor workshop and subsequent public engagement process were also proposed.

“This has come directly from the community,” Cr Yager said.

“People don’t understand why someone in one area pays far more than someone in another, even when the services are similar — or worse. It’s confusing, and we haven’t looked at the structure since amalgamation in 2004."

She cited examples such as Grafton and South Grafton CBD businesses being rated identically despite stark diferences, and highlighted inequities for farmers and waterfront property owners in Yamba.

Cr Lynne Cairns strongly

supported the motion, arguing: “People living on Yamba’s waterfronts are paying nearly double what others pay, and farmers are paying exorbitant rates for far fewer services. This needs review."

Cr Greg Clancy moved an amendment to ensure the modelling be taken to town hall meetings upriver and downriver, saying rate dissatisfaction was “a sore that doesn’t heal."

But the proposal quickly ran into opposition.

Cr Karen Toms criticised Cr Yager for failing to give staf enough direction.

“I’m disappointed this hasn’t been thought through,” she said. “Next month we’ll get a report back asking us what we want. That’s not good governance — it’s wasting time."

When Cr Toms questioned Cr Yager’s understanding of the rating system, Crs Clancy and Cairns raised points of order, accusing her of personal attacks and “gaslighting.”

Mayor Ray Smith, allowed the remarks to

stand as opinion, but tensions remained high.

Cr Peter Johnstone, while acknowledging the need for review, opposed the motion on procedural grounds. He foreshadowed a more structured alternative that councillors could work from — given the additional complexity of looming land revaluations and a potential Special Rate Variation (SRV).

“You change rates for one group and you make them better — it usually makes it worse for someone else,”

Cr Johnstone said. “We need to understand the trade-ofs before we ask staf to model them."

Cr Yager’s motion was narrowly defeated 5–4, with councillors Novak, Whaites, Toms, Smith, and Johnstone voting against.

But in a constructive turn, Cr Johnstone then introduced his foreshadowed motion, developed in discussion with Cr Yager, which council later adopted unanimously.

Under the new resolution, council will model three

Cr Peter

applauded Cr

attempt to tackle clarifying the rate structure but said any such attempt needed to be prepared to tackle the detail involved. He produced a foreshadowed motion after Cr

attempt was voted down, which built on her proposal.

rating structures using 2024–25 data:

The current diferential rating structure;

A uniform base rate with a single ad valorem rate across the entire LGA (sometimes called the “Big Bang” model); and

A regionally targeted diferential model based on 14 demographic zones identifed in council’s profle.id tool.

The models are intended as an educational tool for councillors, ahead of any future decisions. A workshop will be held before April 2026 to assess the results. Whether the modelling will be taken to the community will be decided later.

“This will help us understand what we’re working with — so we can explain the current system or consider something better,” Cr Johnstone said. “There’s a lot of misunderstanding out there about how rates work."

Cr Toms, who had strongly opposed Cr

Yager’s motion, welcomed the revised version.

“This will be an education for all of us,” she said, warning that uniform rating structures in other areas had caused dramatic rate hikes in wealthier suburbs — such as Evans Head, where some rates jumped 80 per cent Cr Yager backed the new motion, calling it a step in the right direction.

“I’m especially interested in the profle.id model,” she said. “It might reveal some really practical alternatives — and we can always revisit it again next year when the SRV isn’t hanging over us."

Council’s last major rates review followed the 2004 amalgamation, and ever since, confusion and complaints have been a regular feature of council inboxes and community meetings.

As Cr Clancy put it, “We may end up sticking with what we’ve got — but at least we’ll understand why. And so will the people we represent.”

Water outage leaves Maclean Hospital dry for hours

By Tim Howard

A major water supply failure on the McFarlane Bridge at Maclean left thousands of Lower Clarence residents without water overnight on Thursday, with Maclean Hospital reportedly afected until around 8am Friday. The outage, which began around 11.15pm on July 24, cut water to homes and businesses between Maclean and Taloumbi and continued through the early

hours of Friday morning.

Some residents had water restored by sunrise, while others received discoloured or unusable water well into the day.

Cr Lynne Cairns confrmed the failure occurred on infrastructure attached to McFarlane Bridge, where water mains cross the Clarence River.

Cr Cairns said she had been contacted by a hospital staf member anxious to learn when the water supply would be repaired.

She said she contacted

the general manager Laura Black, who said a repair team was working to fx the problem and she expected supply to resume early in the morning.

Cr Cairns described the disruption as “concerning”.

“This wasn’t just about a few homes running dry — critical infrastructure like the hospital was without water, and that’s a serious problem,” Cr Cairns said.

While Clarence Valley Council posted a brief statement referring to a “major issue in Maclean”, no detailed public updates

were provided at the time of the outage. That lack of communication has drawn criticism from some residents and local commentators.

An article on Clarence Valley Community Information reported confusion and frustration among locals as taps ran dry without explanation.

The full cause of the failure has not been ofcially disclosed.

However, Cr Cairns said the afected pipeline runs along McFarlane Bridge,

suggesting the fault likely occurred at that point — a vulnerable link in the region’s water supply network.

Council has not released a public statement confrming when all services were fully restored or what measures will be taken to prevent a repeat of the incident.

Residents across the Lower Clarence are calling for better emergency communication protocols, especially when key services such as hospitals are afected.

Cr Cristie Yager is desperate to make the council’s rating structure clearer to residents.

Johnstone

Yager’s

Yager’s

By Samantha Elley

Sports teams from the Evans Head area have scored and had a big win with the announcement of more lighting for Stan Payne Oval.

The Evans Head Bombers rugby league, the Evans Head Killer Whales and the Evans Head Touch Football competition will all beneft from the $200,000 lighting upgrade, announced by Clarence Nationals MP, Richie Williamson last week.

“This is a big win for Evans Head,” he said.

“Stan Payne Oval is the beating heart of local sport and this upgrade will make a real diference for players, spectators and the broader community.”

As a member of the Stan Payne Oval committee and secretary of the Evans Head Touch Football Association, Jo Slade said this grant was monumental.

“The oval committee has been working on this for three years,” she said.

“It was always a big

thing in our agenda.

“It means safer playing felds and having these lights will open up all the felds, which means growth.”

Ms Slade said there were some new exciting

developments happening with their junior touch football competition and the announcement of the lighting upgrade was perfect timing.

Richmond Valley Mayor, Robert Mustow said the

upgrade represented a signifcant step in the Stan Payne Oval Master Plan, adopted by the council in 2023.

“The new lighting will extend the usability of the oval into the evenings, supporting local sports clubs, community events and casual recreation of all ages,” he said. The upgrade will include 41 new foodlights and four 32-metre galvanised steel lighting poles.

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“This is a big win for Evans Head” announced by Clarence Nationals MP, Richie Williamson last week.

Council fags illegal camper crackdown

Illegal campers in the Clarence Valley may soon fnd it harder to dodge enforcement, with Clarence Valley Council unanimously voting to investigate tougher options for overnight parking and camping compliance in coastal hotspots.

At the July 17 council meeting, Cr Peter Johnstone tabled a motion—seconded by Cr Shane Causley—that called for a report on possible enforcement alternatives in areas like Wooli, Yamba, Iluka and Brooms Head. The report is due no later than October.

Cr Johnstone told the meeting that illegal camping had become a persistent source of community frustration, particularly in Wooli, where residents had raised concerns about the unsanitary and obstructive behaviour of overnight campers.

“Unfortunately, illegal camping continues to be a low-risk, high-reward option for many,” he said, pointing to weak deterrents and limited enforcement capacity. Currently, rangers must patrol after hours to issue fnes—something council papers described as “labour-intensive” and difcult to sustain without compromising daytime duties.

The council’s move comes amid rising discontent in coastal communities across the North Coast, where the popularity of van-based travel and the high cost of formal accommodation have fuelled a wave of illegal overnight stays.

Clarence Valley is not

alone in grappling with the issue.

Several NSW councils have already trialled or implemented creative approaches to curb illegal camping and protect public land.

In Byron Shire, long a hotspot for van-based travellers, council has used a combination of

overnight surveillance cameras, number plate recognition technology, and real-time ranger alerts to monitor prohibited zones.

Mobile patrols are backed by signage warning of penalties and targeted blitzes during peak periods.

Shoalhaven City Council

has adopted an escalating fne structure and uses a combination of ranger patrols, public education, and access restrictions at known hotspots.

The council has also lobbied for changes to state legislation to make enforcement more fexible and cost-efective.

Eurobodalla Shire Council, facing similar problems along its coastline, has worked with local police to coordinate early-morning compliance operations and has trialled temporary overnight parking bans with prominent signage and rapid-response follow-up.

Some areas have also been ftted with lockable bollards to prevent vehicle access after dark.

Back in the Clarence, Cr Johnstone acknowledged council’s current resources were not sufcient to address the scale of the problem.

“Residents in these towns are tired of waking up to human waste, litter, and being blocked out of their own parking and beach access,” he said.

The council’s motion calls for a wide-ranging report exploring enforcement alternatives, including possible technology solutions, signage upgrades, deterrent measures, and policy changes.

The report will need

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to address operational constraints, budget implications, and potential legal or jurisdictional hurdles.

It may also consider options used by other councils—including surveillance cameras, geo-fencing, parking time restrictions, and the creation of designated overnight parking areas with basic facilities, a model that has seen some success in New Zealand and parts of Victoria. Clarence Valley Council’s decision to act follows increases in national park campsite fees—some unpowered sites now cost as much as $98 per night during peak periods—making the appeal of free roadside camping even greater. Council papers noted that past instances of illegal overnight stays had not only led to pollution and the monopolisation of public space, but also posed longer-term risks to the amenity and ecological integrity of the area.

“This is a community issue,” Cr Johnstone said. “If we want to protect the natural values that draw people here in the frst place, we have to fnd better ways to manage the impacts.”

The report is expected to come before council no later than October.

Cr Peter Johnstone describes illegal camping as a low-risk, high-reward activity for many and is looking for ways the council can overturn that scenario.

Push to make roads safer during oods

Tim Howard

The Clarence Valley’s long history of devastating foods and growing concern over future climate impacts were at the heart of a motion brought forward by Cr Cristie Yager at the July Clarence Valley Council meeting, where she called for a stronger focus on food-safe alternate transport routes during emergencies.

Cr Yager, who amended her original notice of motion on the day, received unanimous support for her proposal, which noted both the general manager’s report on food preparedness and a request to the NSW Reconstruction Authority to brief councillors on current food resilience projects.

Speaking to the motion, Cr Yager said her primary concern was not just food immunity or evacuation routes, but improving the safety and durability of the roads people rely on when

primary routes are cut.

“During food events, existing alternate routes are often not designed to accommodate the increased trafc,” she said.

“That leads to safety risks and further deterioration once primary roads reopen.”

She said her intention was to highlight the need for longer-term planning and “forward thinking” that adapted to the likelihood of more

frequent and severe weather events, rather than relying solely on traditional emergency responses.

“We can’t build levee walls for every road,” she said. “But we can invest in safer alternate routes that support essential movement during foods.”

Cr Yager also foated the idea of a publicly accessible food map showing viable access routes in various food

section for community or agency input.

Cr Yager acknowledged the omission, saying her motion was driven by informal conversations with locals and refections on the 2022 food event.

“There was lots of conversation through the SES, RA and the community more broadly,” she said.

scenarios—particularly for visitors unfamiliar with local geography who may fnd themselves trapped or isolated.

“I just felt a map would be really handy,” she said, adding it would be useful “just for safety and general interest … to adjust to the way our environment here on the food plain is.”

While supportive, fellow councillor Debrah Novak queried Cr Yager’s consultation process, pointing out that the NOM template included a

Cr Novak also asked whether Cr Yager had reviewed council’s Resilience Framework and Emergency Management Plan.

Cr Yager confrmed she had seen both documents and recognised their relevance.

Despite the procedural feedback, the motion was passed unanimously, with councillors agreeing to further engage with the Reconstruction Authority and consider how alternate routes could be better incorporated into future food planning.

The Clarence Valley, like much of the Northern Rivers, has endured

repeated fooding over the past two centuries. While major population centres have been protected by levee walls from the 1960s, extreme weather events— including the recordbreaking 2022 foods— have exposed gaps in the region’s infrastructure. As climate change continues to intensify rainfall patterns and sea level rise, Cr Yager’s motion underscores a broader shift in food resilience planning: from emergency response to long-term adaptation.

Cr Cristie Yager said the likelihood of more frequent and severe weather events makes improving road infrastructure and seeking alternate routes was becoming of vital importance.

Even the newest roads can be impacted by foodwater. During the 2022 foods a pump failure meant the access to the second Grafton Bridge was cut of by foodwater.

Wooli Rd collapse

Cairns refuses to back down after council votes to close investigation

By Tim Howard

Clarence Valley councillor

Lynne Cairns has vowed to continue fghting for transparency and accountability after a bid to have a confdential investigation report released failed at last Thursday’s council meeting.

The controversial report stems from a long-running dispute over Clarence Valley Council’s legal dealings with the Yamba Community Action Network (Yamba CAN), a community group of which Cr Cairns was secretary when the events occurred.

At the heart of the matter is a Concerns Notice sent to Yamba CAN in 2023 by Sydney-based law frm Sparke Helmore Lawyers.

The notice, on behalf of Clarence Valley Council, demanded the group retract public statements critical of the council’s actions.

Cr Cairns maintains the legal correspondence constitutes councilinitiated legal action— something the council has repeatedly denied in ofcial forums, including before the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT).

Council claims the legal action was not against Yamba CAN, but against its ofce bearers—Cr Cairns and its chairperson Col Shephard—in their personal capacities.

However, Cr Cairns says

no documentation has been produced to support this version of events, and that the initial legal letter clearly names Yamba CAN and lists Clarence Valley Council as the client.

“This investigation is not closed, and I have told the truth through this whole matter,” Cr Cairns told Thursday’s meeting, speaking against a mayoral minute tabled by Mayor Ray Smith that sought to formally close the issue.

The mayoral minute noted that an independent investigator had found Cr Cairns’ complaint—that council provided false information to NCAT— was “not substantiated”.

But Cr Cairns said she only learned of this

outcome last week, more than six weeks after the investigation was fnalised on May 30.

“To fnd out for the frst time on July 10 in this mayoral minute that my complaint is not substantiated is appalling,” she said.

“I have not been provided any reasons for the fnding, nor any opportunity to review or appeal it.”

Cr Cairns accused the council of breaching its own Complaints Management Policy by failing to keep her informed and not disclosing the outcome, reasons, or available avenues of appeal.

She also raised concerns about the scope and fairness of the

investigation, saying that the investigator—who did not fnd in her favour— had ignored 13 documents she submitted, which she claims support her case. “It appears the investigator has failed to consider these thirteen documents… I am concerned that this has not been a fair investigation at all,” she said.

During debate on the issue, Cr Cairns moved an amendment to the mayoral minute calling for councillors to be given access to the full confdential report, all documents provided to and by the investigator, and to be briefed on any contact from the Ofce of Local Government or the

Minister for Local Government about the matter.

The amendment was supported by Crs Greg Clancy and Cristie Yager but was defeated 6–3, with Crs Whaites, Novak, Johnstone, Toms, Causley and Mayor Smith voting it down.

Cr Clancy spoke in support of Cr Cairns, saying the issue was not about individuals, but about council’s credibility and the importance of ensuring NCAT was not misled.

“I am very concerned that when evidence was given to NCAT, it was stated that the Concerns Notice was taken out by the general manager on Col Shephard and Lynne Cairns as individuals,” he said. “I don’t believe that to be the truth.”

Others were more critical.

Cr Toms challenged whether Cr Cairns was using her position as a councillor to pursue a matter stemming from her time as a private citizen, and asked whether her name had been on the original Concerns Notice.

“The initial complaint was sent to Yamba CAN’s email address and was to Col Shephard, chair, and Lynne Cairns, secretary,” Cr Cairns said.

“It had Clarence Valley Council as the client.”

Cr Whaites accused

Cr Cairns of selectively sharing the original legal letter and questioned why she had not disclosed the full correspondence to councillors earlier, despite discussing it publicly. Cr Cairns replied that she had authority from Yamba CAN and the complainant, Craigh McNeill, to share the documents selectively, but was not obligated to provide them in full.

Despite the vote to close the matter, Cr Cairns said her solicitor had now referred the issue to Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig, citing concerns about council secrecy, lack of due process, and potential misrepresentation to NCAT.

“Council is withholding the Investigator’s Confdential Investigation Report,” she said.

“I, and all councillors, should have received it. Council is keeping it a secret. Why is this the case?”

The mayoral minute noted that the investigation cost $16,302, and stated that it was appropriate to close the matter as the complaint’s substance had been made public.

But Cr Cairns insists the issue is far from resolved.

“I want transparency and accountability,” she said.

“We haven’t seen that from this council at all.”

Clarence Valley Mayor Ray Smith succeeded in having his mayoral minute passed, but this issue might still come back to haunt the council.

Cr Lynne Cairns has told council she has taken this matter to the NSW Minister for Local Government, Ron Hoenig.

Richmond River High Campus Rebuild Enters Next Stage with Community-Backed Designs

Jef Gibbs

The NSW Government has unveiled new designs for the Richmond River High Campus rebuild, bringing the Lismore community one step closer to a future-ready, foodresilient secondary school. Relocated to higher ground in North Lismore, the new campus will form part of The Rivers Secondary College, alongside Kadina High and Lismore High.

Community members are encouraged to view and comment on the updated plans through the NSW Planning Portal until 21 August.

The campus will feature 36 general classrooms, three support classrooms, and 14 specialised spaces including science labs, wood and metal workshops, and areas dedicated to sport, agriculture, construction, and food technologies. A multipurpose hall, library, and performance spaces are also included in the design.

project has undergone key updates:

Following community feedback in 2024 and site investigations, the

● All buildings will be positioned above the Probable Maximum Flood level;

● Modular construction methods will fast-track the build, with ofsite manufacturing running parallel to onsite civil works;

● A new entrance via Dunoon Road will ease trafc and improve access.

Importantly, Connecting with Country consultations continue to ensure the design refects Bundjalung culture and values.

Construction is on track to be completed by early 2027, with planning approval fasttracked by two months in collaboration with the NSW Reconstruction Authority. The rebuild is part of a broader $1.4 billion recovery efort, with 16 of 21 fooddamaged schools in the Northern Rivers already repaired or rebuilt.

Acting Education Minister Courtney Houssos said the rebuild is a long-term investment in the region’s future. “Together, we’re building a brighter, stronger future for local students, staf and families.”

Local MP and Disaster Recovery Minister Janelle Safn added, “This is not just a rebuild— it’s a renewal for our community, preserving what’s important and preparing for what’s next.”

MINNS LABOR GOVERNMENT’S RAZOR GANG THREATENS REGIONAL JOBS: WILLIAMSON

Nationals Member for Clarence, Richie Williamson, has expressed deep concern over the Minns Labor Government’s latest plan to cut an additional 950 jobs from Transport for NSW, warning it could have devastating consequences for regional communities like the Clarence and Richmond Valleys.

Mr Williamson said the announcement on Wednesday that Premier Chris Minns and Minister for Roads and Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison, plan massive job losses in Transport

for NSW would send a shiver down the spine of regional areas like Grafton, which is home to a signifcant number of hardworking Transport for NSW staf.

“Grafton has a proud and longstanding history of contributing to the success of Transport for NSW across the state,” Mr Williamson said.

“To see the guts ripped out of our regional workforce by this cityfocused government would be a major blow to our community. These jobs are not just numbers on a spreadsheet - they are families, livelihoods

and essential services.”

Mr Williamson has written to Minister Aitchison calling on her to immediately rule out job losses in regional NSW and areas like Grafton and guarantee the protection of bush-based roles.

Shadow Minister for Regional Roads, Dave Layzell echoed the concerns saying: “Every single job in a regional economy is gold.

“The Minns Labor Government seems completely tone-deaf when it comes to the needs and realities of regional NSW,” he said.

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Land Purchase Unlocks 400 New Homes for Flood-Afected Communities in Lismore

Robert Heyward

A major milestone has been achieved in the Northern Rivers Resilient Lands Program, with the NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA) fnalising the purchase of 72 hectares of food-free land from Southern Cross University in East Lismore. The land purchase will pave the way for the development of more than 400 new housing lots, delivering much-needed housing for communities impacted by the 2022 food disasters. The project is being delivered in partnership with Landcom, the NSW Government’s land and property developer. A diverse range of land sizes will be ofered, catering for new builds as well as the relocation of existing homes from food-prone areas.

Landcom will invest

$60 million to develop the site, while the RA is contributing up to $15 million for the land acquisition and enabling infrastructure such as roads, power, water and sewerage connections. Crucially, participants in the Commonwealth and State-funded Resilient Homes Program will be given priority access to purchase new land and housing before the broader market, at prices refecting the local market.

Planning consultation between Landcom, Lismore City Council and the RA is underway to fnalise a masterplan and deliver homes as quickly as possible. Landcom is also preparing to start construction on 50 Buildto-Rent apartments, with at least 20 per cent designated as afordable housing.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces

Paul Scully said the purchase was part of the Government’s wider plan to move residents of the foodplain and into safer homes.

“Northern Rivers residents are facing major housing challenges. This large-scale land purchase will deliver new homes, relocate existing homes and expand Build-to-Rent options,” Mr Scully said. Minister for Recovery Janelle Safn added the Southern Cross University site will “build a safe and resilient community close to home and in easy reach of the town centre.”

The project forms part of the $100 million Northern Rivers Resilient Lands Program and works alongside the $880 million Resilient Homes Program Together, these initiatives will unlock land for up to 4,300 homes on food-safe land across the Northern Rivers region.

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Men Wanted: Paddle Your Way to Fitness and Friendship This August with Wollumbin Dragons

If you’re a man looking to shake up your routine, boost your ftness, and connect with a great bunch of blokes, the Wollumbin Dragon Boat Club has an ofer you won’t want to miss.

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Diary of a Flood Survivor

One of the best supports for those of us who have been food afected, in my opinion, has been the grocery hubs that have popped up since 2022.

They have been a help with stocking the pantries and saving some money, but they have also been a place to go and chat to people, some hold morning teas and just an excuse to get out of the house, especially in the early days when the house wasn’t somewhere you wanted to hang for too long.

I especially want to send a huge thanks, not only to the volunteers that man the hubs, but also to the community food vans who bring the ‘seconds’ that most likely would get

School Infrastructure

thrown out, to give them a second life.

Then there are the companies and businesses who donate the food.

We have often been able to stock up on bread in the freezer and get fresh vegetables and fruit that have saved us some money and every penny counts when you are trying to return your house to its former glory.

Sometimes there are bonuses, such as the week there were bags of muesli.

I knew it was going to be yummy when I saw it had macadamias in it.

Not knowing the name of the company that provided this yummy, crunchy serving of breakfast delight, I felt

Public notice

Notice of exhibition of a proposed school development

Proposal:

very blessed to enjoy such a treat.

Just to give an update on where we are at in the whole retroft process, I had emailed the statement of works from our builder to my contact at the Reconstruction Authority only to fnd out a week later when I hadn’t received a reply, that the phone number for them was disconnected.

So, frst thing Monday morning I start again and have been advised that a lovely person from the RA will call me in a couple of days.

Patience is a gift and I truly believe those of us who have been through this food event, have been well blessed with it. Little steps.

NSW Department of Education

Relocation and rebuild of Richmond River High Campus on the south-eastern portion of the site, including demolition, tree removal, site preparation, construction of new school buildings, outdoor spaces including assembly zones, agricultural spaces, sports fields, games courts, yarning and dancing circles, seating and shade structures, new access road off Dunoon Road with separate shared bicycle/pedestrian pathway , carparking, kiss and drop facilities and bus zone, site landscaping and associated off-site public domain works as described in the REF.

Applicant: NSW Department of Education

Location: 163 & 170 Alexandra Parade, North Lismore

Exhibition details:

The proposal will be on public exhibition from Friday 25 July 2025 to Thursday 21 August 2025 During this period, community members are invited to review the REF which describes the proposed development, potential environmental impacts and proposed mitigation measures, and provide feedback via the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure Division 5.1 planning portal. A link to the Planning Portal is included on the department’s project website available using the weblink or QR code below.

Information and feedback

For further information contact School Infrastructure on:

Website: edu.nsw.link/RichmondRiverHC

Phone: 1300 482 651

Email: schoolinfrastructure@det.nsw.edu.au

Janelle Saffin MP Column

Technology boost for regional ransport

I have good news for local bus passengers – all bus services, including school buses, now have real-time travel technology.

For the frst time, bus passengers across regional NSW can access real-time travel information from their smart devices, giving us the same technology Sydney commuters have enjoyed for years.

All contracted buses are now ftted out with GPS and automatic passenger counting technology. This means passengers can track their bus using travel apps including Google Maps, Opal Travel or via the Transport for NSW Trip Planner website and get route information and digital timetables.

The smart technology eliminates the guesswork for bus passengers and lets you know exactly where your bus is and when it will arrive. This is a great tool for parents waiting for school buses to arrive.

The NSW Minister for Roads and Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison represents a regional community herself and she said she understood the frustration of regional commuters who felt left behind when it came to accessing real-time data.

Focus on road safety

As we head into the second

half of the school year, the Minns Government is reminding motorists to slow down in school zones.

School zones are active from 8am to 9.30am and 2.30pm to 4pm on school days.

In the past 12 months, more than 125,000 people have been caught speeding in active school zones.

This is 125,000 people disregarding the safety of schoolchildren.

Since 2019 106 pedestrians aged between 5 and 16 years have been hit by vehicles in active school zones. Two children have been killed and 38 seriously injured. There’s no excuse for speeding around schools.

I urge everyone who gets behind the wheel to be alert to the school zone signs and put our children’s safety frst.

And while on topic road safety, Minister Aitchison has issued a reminder for drivers and passengers to buckle up every time you get into a vehicle.

One year ago the Minns Labor Government introduced seatbelt enforcement cameras to encourage all road users to buckle up correctly. In that time 140 million vehicles have been checked with over 99 per cent of drivers and

passengers doing the right thing.

It has been a great success with a 60 per cent drop in seatbelt offences and most importantly there have been fewer seatbelt related deaths this year. But the cameras have also detected far too many people wearing seatbelts incorrectly.

A seatbelt must be worn low and fat across your hips and the sash must cross the middle of your chest and shoulder, never under your arm.

Road Safety Crash Lab testing shows that in a crash at just 60km/h, an incorrectly work seatbelt can cause fatal injuries to the liver, spleen or abdomen.

It was way back in 1971 that NSW frst made seatbelts compulsory. We’ve come a long way since then but too many people still aren’t wearing seatbelts or are not wearing them correctly, and it is a foolish risk to take.

Why batteries should never be disposed of in kerbside bins

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve probably heard about the frightening increase in battery related fres, with an estimated 10,000 such fres occurring in Australia last year.

Batteries contain reactive materials that can spark and ignite when crushed during waste collection or disposal. A single lithium-ion battery can generate enough heat to start a fre in a garbage truck or landfll, putting workers and infrastructure at risk.

Left in kerbside bins, batteries are more likely to be compacted and damaged. This mechanical stress can rupture casings, releasing chemicals such as lead, cadmium, mercury, nickel, cobalt and lithium salts. In addition to the fre risk these substances persist in the environment, polluting soil and waterways and are a potential hazard to the health of both humans and wildlife.

Accessible recycling programs such as B-cycle and Community Recycling Centres allow households to drop off used batteries at no cost. These programs enable the re-

covery of valuable metals and so support a circular economy for batteries by reducing reliance on virgin resources. By making safe disposal part of our routine, we can all help to protect human health, prevent fres and conserve materials. Always separate batteries from general waste, tape the terminals to prevent short circuits and store in a ventilated glass jar, out of reach of

children until you can visit your local drop off point.

To fnd your nearest drop off location or learn more about safe battery disposal visit www.newaste.org.au/ batteries or contact your local Council.

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

Tweed Shire Council Regains Flood Cover Thanks to Resilience Investment

Jef Gibbs

Tweed Shire Council has successfully regained limited food cover after investing more than $50 million into food resilience and infrastructure improvements following the devastating 2022 foods.

The loss of food insurance left the community fnancially vulnerable. In response, Council partnered with State and Commonwealth governments to shift critical infrastructure out of food-prone areas and bolster asset resilience. Key projects included the $11 million Building Asset Betterment program,

the Industrial Land Swap, and relocating the Murwillumbah Works Depot and Animal Rehoming Centre to safer ground.

Council’s food mitigation eforts were recognised by underwriters following a recent inspection. The lead underwriter reinstated food cover, praising Council’s strategic, longterm approach.

“We were transparent about our work and our innovative thinking,” said General Manager Troy Green, noting upgrades such as foodhardy materials, elevated switchboards, and a new fash food alert system

A major milestone is the development of

a $33 million depot at South Murwillumbah, a project co-funded by the NSW and Australian governments. Set for completion in June 2026, it replaces a facility that was damaged in both 2017 and 2022.

Mayor Chris Cherry said regaining food cover was a win for the community. “It means we can focus on services and recovery—without the fnancial burden of disaster repairs.”

Council’s eforts are now recognised as a leading example of local government resilience planning. Through foresight and partnership, Tweed is better prepared for the challenges of a changing climate.

Warm Hearts and Busy Needles: Wardell Kniting Group Donates 71 Handmade Rugs to Those in Need

Threads of kindness stitched in community spirit

As the winter chill grips the Northern Rivers, one local group is proving that warmth comes not just from wool, but from community and compassion. The Wardellbased Knit n’ Knat group has once again made a heartfelt impact— donating a remarkable 71 handmade blankets to people doing it tough across the region.

Meeting every Thursday morning from 9:00 am to noon at the Wardell and District War Memorial Hall, the group’s members knit, natter, and sip tea while crafting colourful, comforting rugs. Their mission is simple: to warm homes and hearts, one stitch at a time.

A tradition of generosity since 2004

The group’s roots in community support stretch back over two decades. Their frst major donation in 2004 saw 200 knitted squares transformed into blankets for the Salvation Army in Woodburn, destined for the homeless in Sydney.

In 2011, the group’s impact expanded when

the late Rose Leeson, Ballina’s 2008 Citizen of the Year, introduced Dawn and Robert Sword to their cause. The Swords, known for their community work, were invited for a morning tea—or ‘smoko’—to learn more. That visit sparked a lasting partnership, with Dawn and Robert collecting the knitted goods each year and ensuring they reach people in genuine need.

A network of support across the Northern Rivers

The lovingly made items have since reached a wide network of recipients— from food and fre victims, to families with children with disabilities, to local community organisations. These include:

l The Mental Health Support Group

l The Ballina Women’s Refuge

l The Ballina Hot Meal Centre

l Mary’s Place

Each donation is a tangible act of care, wrapped in yarn and delivered with dignity. 2025 donation: 71 handmade blankets

The Bentley Art Prize will celebrate its 40th Anniversary on the frst weekend in August.

This popular annual event was initiated by Reg and Phyllis Hartley in 1985 and has always been supported by a dedicated cohort of volunteers. Reg and Phyllis were the mainstays of the show until 2005 when Helen Trus-

tum became the coordinator.

Helen remained in that

This year, the Knit n’ Knat group has outdone itself with 71 stunning handmade blankets

Each one is a patchwork of time, talent, and love. In an era of mass production, their eforts stand as a testament to the enduring power of handcrafted care.

position for 18 years.

On her retirement in 2023 a new team stepped up. Speaking for the team, one of the principal volunteers, Wendy Harris, said:

“We are all really excited to reach this anniversary milestone. We’re keen to acknowledge the rich 40 year history of the Bentley Art Prize and its continuing value to the community. We’re also looking forward to once again celebrating the prolifc artists and generous sponsors who make the show so popular.”

The BAP begins on Friday August 1, with wine and nibbles from 7-9pm and fnishes at 2pm on Sunday

August 3. On Saturday and Sunday a host of market stalls will join us featuring handmade goods such as jewellery, cow and kangaroo hide items, dog collars and leads, botanical print products, crafted wood, acid-washed t-shirts and children’s clothes and candles. In addition

Sue Steel, a member of the group, says the warmth shared within the knitting circle fows into every item they produce. “It’s not just about blankets—it’s about community. We come together to laugh, support one another, and create something meaningful.”

New members welcome

The group is always keen to welcome new knitters , no matter their skill level. Whether you’re a lifelong yarn enthusiast or a curious beginner, there’s a seat waiting for you. For those who want to contribute to this beautiful cause, or simply share in some good company and conversation, call Sue Steel on 6683 4994

Because at the heart of every stitch is a story— and a whole lot of love.

there’ll be a variety of food stalls, along with cakes and jams to take home.

We’ll be entertained by live music all weekend: Friday August 1, Yolan 7-9pm Saturday August 2, Luke Vasella, 9am-12pm, Sylvia Nowlan, 2.30-5pm Sunday August 3, Jamie Sullivan, 9.45am-12pm We’d love you to come and help us celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the Bentley Art Prize. Contact: Meg 0413 417 543

st rd

Reg and Phyllis Hartley on their retirement as BAP coordinators.

Helen Trustum with Maria Heaton, a BAP winner in 2016

New Fire Trucks and Equipment

Rolled Out Ahead of Bushfire Season in Lismore Electorate

Robert Heyward

The Lismore Electorate has received a vital boost to bushfre preparedness, with new frefghting tankers and operational equipment now delivered to local brigades ahead of the upcoming fre season.

Member for Lismore Janelle Safn confrmed that new trucks have been stationed at Bonalbo, Jiggi Valley and

Tuncester over the past 12 months as part of the Minns Government’s statewide rollout of upgraded frefghting vehicles.

Ms Safn said she recently inspected the new appliance at Tuncester and was impressed by the improvements.

“The diference compared to the old truck is enormous,” she said.

“This vehicle carries the

latest equipment and features an air-conditioned cabin, which the local fre crew was particularly excited about. These modern upgrades make a signifcant diference for our volunteers working in harsh conditions.”

The new trucks form part of the government’s investment in 290 new and refurbished frefghting vehicles across New South Wales

this fnancial year. Each vehicle is equipped with enhanced crew protection systems, ensuring frefghters have greater safety when operating in dangerous conditions.

Importantly, the trucks are now ftted with Mobile Data Terminals (MDTs)—technology designed to improve communications and connectivity, especially in remote or disaster-afected

areas. This initiative follows recommendations from the NSW Bushfre Inquiry and other reviews, ensuring emergency crews have the tools they need to respond quickly and efectively.

“The rollout of these modern vehicles strengthens frefghting capabilities in our region and supports the tireless eforts of our RFS volunteers,” Ms Safn said. The announcement comes as the Bush Fire Danger Period for parts of northern NSW begins on 1 August, with the danger period extending statewide from 1 October Residents are being urged to review their bushfre survival plans and prepare their properties ahead of what is expected to be a challenging season.

We Did It Again – Casino Crowned Best Tasting Tap Water in NSW

Jef Gibbs

Richmond Valley Council to represent NSW at national championships

The team at Casino Water Treatment Plant has done it again—taking out the top honour for Best Tasting Tap Water in NSW and the ACT at the 2025 IXOM Best Tasting Tap Water competition. Richmond

Valley Council will now represent the state at the national championships in November, vying once more for the title of Australia’s fnest drop. Judged yesterday at the Water Industry Operators’ Association of Australia conference in Newcastle, Casino’s tap water outperformed nine other entries, including Sydney Water and

Central Coast, in a blind tasting that scored entries on colour, clarity, odour, and mouthfeel

This marks Casino’s second State title, following a 2020 win, and builds on their impressive track record—taking out the national title in 2021 It’s yet another milestone for a team already recognised for excellence, including Council’s David

Cash, who was named Operator of the Year in 2024

Consistency, quality, and community service

Council’s General Manager Vaughan Macdonald praised the commitment of the Water and Sewer team and operators at the treatment plant, who work around the clock to supply highquality water to over

12,000 people

“Council is incredibly proud to receive this recognition,” Mr Macdonald said. “Our community deserves safe, great-tasting drinking water, and this award is testament to the hard work our team puts in every day.”

Water is pumped 2.3 km to the plant, which uses coagulation-focculation-

sedimentation processes, along with sand and flter coal media.

Despite challenges from the Richmond River, including blue-green algae and manganese, the team continues to refne treatment methods, including activated carbon dosing and enhanced coagulation trials to reduce by-products and improve taste.

Superintendent Daniel Ainsworth, District Manager of the RFS Northern Rivers Zone, members of the Tuncester RFS and Janelle Safn MP discussing the advantages of the new fre truck.

Inclusions:

 Return Transfers from home to airport

 Return Domestic Airfares ex Gold Coast

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

 Quality Accommodation throughout with breakfast daily

 All sightseeing and entrance fees as per itinerary

 Daily Breakfast, 5 Dinners and 5 lunches

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

 Escorted by a Casino Travel Shoppe Staff Member

Travel Dates: 05 February to 16 February 2026

Untamed Beauty & Rich History of Tasmania 202 1 Day Fully Escorted Tour

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

Inclusions:

ANTARCTICA AND SOUTH AMERICA Days Fully Escorted Tour

 Return Transfers from home to airport

 All International, Regional and Domestic Airfares in Economy Class

 10 Night Antarctica Expedition Cruise in (lead-in cabin (upgrades available)

 All meals and drinks onboard (excluding premium drinks)

 Quality Hotel Accommodation in Santiago and Buenos Aires with Breakfast Daily

 All sightseeing and entrance fees as per itinerary

 Tango Show with Dinner

 Escorted by a Casino Travel Shoppe Staff Member

Travel Dates: 11 March to 02 April 2026

Join the Casino Travel Shoppe on this once in a lifetime opportunity to tick off this MAJOR bucket list item! From exploring Santiago and the wonderful countryside surrounding it to the wonders of Buenos Aires and CROWNED by a 10 night Expedition Cruise to the southern most part of the world, Antarctica!

Celebrating Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery in Northern NSW

Jef Gibbs

The winners of the 2025 Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards have been ofcially announced, recognising the outstanding work of nurses and midwives across the region. The awards ceremony, held recently in Ballina, brought together healthcare professionals, patients, and community members to celebrate excellence in care.

This year’s awards received over 150 nominations, submitted by colleagues, patients, and members of the public. The awards were divided into eight categories, in line with NSW Health’s statewide awards, highlighting the skill, compassion, and dedication of the district’s nurses and midwives.

NNSWLHD Director of District Nursing and Midwifery, Katharine Dufy, extended her gratitude to every nominee and staf member.

“From those just

beginning their careers to those who have dedicated decades to the profession, our nurses and midwives consistently deliver exceptional care,” Ms Dufy said.

“Their compassion and resilience are at the heart of our health services, and I congratulate everyone who was nominated this year.”

2025 Award Winners

l New to Practice Nurse or Midwife of the Year –

Tommy Mull-Mathers, Tweed Valley Hospital

ED

Tommy, part of the hospital’s frst GradStart intake, has excelled in the emergency department, showing exceptional communication skills and dedication to patient care.

l Aboriginal Nurse or Midwife of the Year –Nikkita Johnson, Grafton Base Hospital Nikkita is recognised for her ability to connect with Aboriginal patients and provide culturally sensitive care, strengthening trust and community.

l Nursing or Midwifery Team of the Year –

Kamala Child and Adolescent Mental Health Unit, Lismore

The Kamala team stood out for their innovative, patient-focused approach to youth mental health care and their commitment to creating a safe, inclusive environment.

l Nurse of the Year –

Joanna Martin, Indigo House, Lismore With 18 years of nursing experience, Joanna’s leadership and clinical excellence in domestic

violence prevention has set a standard for quality care and staf education.

l Midwife of the Year – Jess Baxter, Tweed Midwifery Group Practice

Jess has been a cornerstone of the team since 2017, championing continuity of care and exploring new models like the Centering Pregnancy approach.

l Brown Ackerman Leadership Award –Jenae O’Sullivan, Casino & District Memorial Hospital Jenae’s leadership

across various hospital departments and her research into improving emergency care for Aboriginal patients earned her this prestigious honour.

l Lifetime Achievement Award – Narelle Gleeson, Lismore Base Hospital Narelle has served the nursing profession for 50 years, ofering calm, inspiring leadership during challenging times and advocating tirelessly for patient-centred care, particularly for elderly patients.

l Healing Hearts

Consumer Recognition Award

This communitynominated award recognises extraordinary, compassionate care:

Joint Winners:

Nigel Watts (ICU, Lismore Base Hospital) – for his kindness and empathy supporting a distressed mother and her son.

Sarah Hendrikse (Tweed BreastScreen) – for her clear communication and comforting approach with breast cancer patients.

Highly Commended:

Emergency Department, Casino & District Memorial Hospital – for their professionalism and respect in caring for a young patient on multiple occasions.

The awards serve as a reminder of the critical role nurses and midwives play across Northern NSW’s hospitals and facilities. Their ongoing dedication continues to shape highquality healthcare in the region.

Rezoning unlocks 60ha for new homes and jobs in Goonellabah

Jef Gibbs

Major milestone opens door to 400+ homes and 4,000 jobs in food-free precinct

A bold new chapter is set to unfold for Goonellabah, with NSW Planning ofcially approving the rezoning of 60 hectares at 1055 and 1055A Bruxner Highway. This marks a pivotal moment in Lismore City Council’s long-term vision to deliver new homes and jobs in Goonellabah, unlocking land for more than 400 residences and over 100 commercial and industrial lots.

Located on high ground and safely outside mapped food zones, the site is now earmarked to become a mixed-use precinct designed with community, sustainability and resilience in mind.

New homes, local jobs, connected neighbourhood Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg welcomed the rezoning decision, saying it provides the framework for future-proofng the city.

“This is about creating diverse housing options and space for families, businesses, and services in a safe, food-free spot,” Cr

Krieg said. With a mix of lot sizes across the site, residents will have more options for diferent housing styles –from traditional homes to townhouses and mediumdensity dwellings. The precinct has been designed to include open green space, walking and cycling trails, and key services close to home.

Jamie van Lersel, Council’s Acting Head of Planning and Environment, said the precinct will bring lasting benefts for the entire region.

“This is a long-term project, but it sets up Lismore for decades to come,” Ms van Iersel said.

“You’ll be able to walk

Thousands back flood petition to lower future flood levels

Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan has welcomed the strong support for the community petition calling on governments to model a scenario that takes 1–2 metres of future foods. Thousands of people have already signed the petition online and in local businesses across the region, calling on the Federal and State Governments to model real solutions that can reduce future food heights.

Click here to sign the petition: https://www. kevinhogan.com.au/foodpetition/

“This groundswell of support shows just how important this is to our community,” Mr Hogan said.

“People want action to keep us safe, protect our homes, our businesses, and our families.

Reducing food risk improves mental health, protects us fnancially, helps with insurance, and gives our region a future.”

The petition calls on the Government to use the newly developed CSIRO hydrodynamic tool to

This groundswell of support shows just how important this is to our community Mr

model a catchment-wide scenario where a food is

supporting biodiversity and providing a natural community space.

• Bufers will protect existing farmland and neighbouring properties.

• All development stages will include safeguards for water quality, tree canopy retention, and sustainable stormwater systems.

Once fully developed, the area is expected to support 4,000+ ongoing jobs across commercial and industrial zones, with several hundred more during construction.

to the park, cycle along regenerated bushland, and send your kids to childcare just around the corner – all above the food zone.”

Infrastructure investment and environment-frst design

While the land has now been rezoned, the next critical step will be securing funding for $15 million in water and sewer upgrades. Council is actively pursuing State and Federal support to deliver this infrastructure and enable development to begin.

The precinct plan also prioritises environmental protection and lifestyle:

• Tucki Tucki Creek will be restored as a green corridor,

A future-focused vision for Goonellabah Council emphasises that this rezoning delivers a community-frst approach to planning –combining afordability, safety, environmental care and opportunity. Shops, childcare, playgrounds and walking paths will make the precinct a liveable, inclusive and accessible community for families and workers alike. With construction timelines tied to infrastructure rollout, Council will keep locals informed every step of the way.

“This is more than just land – it’s a community in the making,” Ms van Iersel said.

how

1–2 metres lower than it otherwise would be. This includes options to hold back, slow down, and divert foodwaters across the entire Richmond River catchment.

Mr Hogan is also encouraging residents to take part in CSIRO’s upcoming in-person consultation sessions, to ensure community voices are heard loud and clear.

Human spirit soars on Cleveland Way walk

Title: Moor to Sea

Author: Vicki Foote

Price: $29.64

Distributor: Amazon

Imagine you have been diagnosed with breast cancer and undergone surgery and months of chemotherapy.

The only bright blip on the horizon is a trip you have planned with your partner.

Not some relaxing, lay by the beach and sipping cocktails type break, but a walking holiday where you plan to cross almost the width of England on the Cleveland Way.

“These meetings are a chance for locals to tell CSIRO directly what they want modelled. We can’t miss this opportunity.” In-person sessions are being held in Casino, Lismore, Woodburn, Kyogle and Ballina. More information here: https://www.eventbrite. com.au/o/nationalemergency-managmentagency-91910409563

These were the circumstances that Vicki Foote found herself in, along with partner, Olaf.

Only six weeks after fnishing chemo they found themselves on the North York Moors ready to tackle the 170+km walk.

To have gone through such a harrowing procedure, then to fnd herself walking from the

moor to the sea, Vicki contemplates her decision at times, wondering if it would be too much to bear.

With each step she takes, she realises there is more to see (love this play on words), not just in the countryside, but also her own strengths and the support of Olaf. They tackle steep pathways, dangerous toenails, bad blisters and even stinky cheese, but they never give up.

This is defnitely a book that celebrates the human spirit in all its stages.

Vicki and Olaf live in South Australia and have been together for 16 years.

Olaf has two adult children and they enjoy their fve grandchildren. They often visit the Northern Rivers to see family.

This is Vicki’s frst book.

You can get your copy of Moor to Sea from amazon.com.au

“This groundswell of support shows just

important this is to our community,” Mr Hogan said.

Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg welcomed the rezoning decision, saying it provides the framework for future-proofng the city.

Hogan said.

“

Leemo has views on just about anything”

A POSSIBLE ‘FELINE FEAST’ HEIST.

‘Leemo Cat’ back with a Dilemma. Adhering to habit, at 4:15am this morning, I did my ‘security’ check around the property ‘Mum Jane’ shares with me. I got to the last room: the one where Mum keeps all her clothes & shoes & stuf & has a BIG magnifying mirror so she can peer at her visage & determine if she looks presentable enuf to safely venture out in public. (Hmmm! No comment!) Moving right along! On arriving at said room, I astutely noted absolute disarray. CRIKEY, I’ve learned the hard way over years about Mum’s rules ref. tidiness & fgured, EEEEEK. I RECKON we’ve had a robber? Cupboards & drawers were open & there were huge piles of clothes & shoes & stuf everywhere, all over the whole room. Hmm? Call the Police? Should I wake Mum? (I must ‘fess up my initial tempting thought was to leap athletically on top of the highest pile of ‘stuf’, do a giant wee, then burrow down with my powerful paws & hide the wet smelly things! (I didn’t!) Reasoning told me to wake Mum. (I did.) I poked one of her eyes with a paw & made loud frenetic noises saying ‘awaken NOW Mum, WE have been robbered & it’s only ‘cos of MY nightly security patrol this was revealed to me. Crikey, the rude words that emanated from Mum ‘cos of my paw in her eye are ‘probly banned: Nor can my own words ‘probly legally describe the visage of the old lady from hell confronting me: She shouted: ‘Leemo, what ARE you

jabbering about? Out with it NOW! ‘Ooooh Mum, your Clothes & Stuf Room is in chaos: things are strewn everywhere: quick, come hither & see the carnage for yourself ‘cos I reckon a robber has been rummaging for Jools & Valuables’. OMG, she ‘grabbed’ me roughly & pushed me under HER blankies & trapped me in using 6 giant books & told me to ‘put a sock in it’ until she’d had a cup of tea & a Bex powder: THIS IS GRIM! Mind you, it’s kinda snuggly & warm down here so I decided to make the best of a bad situation with a little meditation to calm me for what was to come. Orrrm, snooze, orrrrm! Eeek, I felt one of the BOOK BRICKS being removed & Mum peered in at me under the blankies with a torch, blinding me. ‘RIGHT, ‘Leems’ I have NEWS for you – gottit? ‘OUR’ HOUSE has not been ROBBERED you preposterous cat…have you been drinking? ‘I’ am doing cupboard cleanouts & have more to go: For now, YES, ‘MY’ room down the end IS untidy. BUT, forthwith you will reduce your dawn patrols & stay right away from my areas: your own room ain’t exactly pristine. Are we on the same page Leems? (aaargh she continued!) AND, might I add there is zilcho in our shared property any self-respecting robber would fnd worth robbering. HOWEVER, a cunning ‘FELINE’ robber could score 28 cans of your ‘Fastidious Feline Fancy French Flummery’ treats. OMG noooooo! A possible calamity? “I” quickly shovelled the book brick back into place & called the buddies on our ‘Emergency’ party line. Whew! ‘Brutus’ is devising a strategic plan for implementation at our next meet. ‘Ain’t buddies great Mum?’ Well, she HAD, with a kinda cynical look at me, to acknowledge they were indeed a most special part of a person or cat’s lNitey with purrsies, Leemo & Mum Jane.

Letters to the Editor

Have your say in The Northern Rivers Times!

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

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

Deadline: Fridays at noon

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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.

Millie Deserves a Swift Surprise

Reading about Millie Trustum’s battle and bravery brought tears to my eyes. Her story is a powerful reminder of what really matters — love, resilience, and community. I sincerely hope Taylor Swift or someone in her circle sees this and sends that birthday message.

Millie is already a hero in the Northern Rivers — let’s make her birthday unforgettable.

— Heather S., Tatham

Millie’s Strength is Inspiring

What a powerful and deeply moving article on young Millie Trustum. Her story broke my heart and lifted it all at once. That kind of courage is rare — and it’s clear she’s surrounded by love and a beautiful community. I sincerely hope Taylor Swift sends a message. Millie’s light deserves to reach the world.

— Denise P., Lismore

We’re With You, Millie Millie’s bucket list and the way she’s taking on life with so much bravery

brought me to tears. The way her family and community are rallying around her shows what makes this region special. I’ve already shared her story with friends interstate — and yes, with someone who might know someone in Taylor’s camp.

— Carla S., Casino

Taylor Swift, Are You Listening?

If anyone reading this knows how to get in touch with Taylor Swift, now is the time. Millie deserves that birthday message — and the world should know how incredible she is. This story should be on national TV. She’s the kind of hero young people should be looking up to.

— Thomas R., Grafton

Pink Masks and Kindness

I was especially touched by the nurses painting Millie’s radiation mask pink and making it Taylor Swift themed. It’s those little acts of kindness that mean the world when everything feels uncertain. To Millie and her family — thank you for sharing your story. You’ve touched more lives than you know.

— Janet L., Murwillumbah

Five Days of Racing Joy

A massive thank you to the Clarence River Jockey Club for keeping the fveday racing format alive. In a world of shortcuts, this carnival is a standout. The energy, the tradition, the community buzz — it’s an asset to the region. And including Flame Trees on Cup Day? Pure Grafton magic.

— Don R., Ulmarra

Flush With Excitement

I just want to say a heartfelt thank you to the powers that be for the blockbuster toilet upgrade at Wade Park. Finally, a place to ponder life’s big questions in comfort — with picnic tables nearby for post-pondering recovery. With ten unisex cubicles, I dare say this is the Versailles of public amenities. I only hope visitors respect it and don’t try to wash their motorbikes in the basins.

— Barry T., Dunoon

The Royal Throne Arrives Move over Big Banana — Lismore’s newest claim to fame has arrived: the Wade Park Royal Flush Facility. Ten unisex toilets, pinky-lifting

picnic shelters, and more accessibility than a Netfix login. I did a test run with my three kids, one curious labrador, and a cofee. Verdict? A+ for acoustics and airfow. Bravo to Council. Now if only we could get scented soap and a Spotify playlist...

— Trish G., Alstonville

Ward’s Mistake, Finally Made Right

I was thrilled to read about the recognition of Ward’s Mistake at the Ramornie Day ceremony. That horse was a legend in its time and deserved this moment long ago. Well done to all involved for honouring local racing history. Let’s not wait another 40 years to remember our heroes.

— Lorna M., Waterview Heights

Pajero Loyal and Patient

Thanks for the update on the next-gen Pajero Sport. While I’m disappointed by the wait, I’m relieved to know it’s coming with hybrid options and rugged design. Mitsubishi fans are fercely loyal — we just want something that can tow a van up the Clarence Way and not drink like a sailor!

— Graeme T., Tabulam

Colourful, Clear and Classy

Well done to the design team behind the paper’s new format. It’s inviting without being cluttered, and the headlines and photos now have so much more impact. I especially like how the local news and lifestyle sections stand out. It feels modern but still familiar — like seeing an old friend in a new outft.

— Pete H., Ocean Shores

A Bowl of Laughs and Dumplings

The Chicken and Dumplings write-up had me snorting into my tea.

“Mix until it resembles dough, not regret”? Iconic.

As for the actual meal — it was divine. I served it with crusty bread and there wasn’t a scrap left. Even my picky teenager went back for thirds. You’ve made comfort food exciting again.

— Paul W., Clunes

Neenish for the Win

My mum used to make Neenish Tarts, but this recipe gave them a modern twist with attitude. The instructions were fun, the outcome perfect, and my husband ate four before I even got the kettle

on. This is the kind of heritage recipe I love to see — nostalgic, cheeky, and foolproof.

— Jodie L., Casino

Electrifed, Finally Kudos to Mitsubishi for focusing on hybrid power for the upcoming Pajero Sport. It’s about time someone made a 7-seater SUV that can handle of-road and reduce emissions. Let’s hope it lives up to the hype and sets a new standard in 2026.

— Felicity V., Evans Head

Truck Show Build-Up Is Brilliant

The preview of this year’s Casino Truck Show is excellent! From the morning marshalling to the afternoon awards, it sounds like a full day of chrome and community. The layout is easy to follow and the detail about the live bands and food stalls got our family excited.

— Kev B., Fairy Hill

A Fresh Look That Pops The new layout of the paper is absolutely brilliant. It’s cleaner, brighter, and just more enjoyable to read. Each section fows better, the use of colour really draws you in, and the photos are more prominent without overwhelming the content. Even my husband — who usually just reads the sports — commented on how sharp it looks.

— Rhonda J., Kyogle

Tart and Totally Fabulous

That Neenish Tarts recipe was pure joy from the frst paragraph. The description — “tea party and disco colliding” — was bang on! I made a batch for my bridge club and not only were they delicious, they looked so good I got asked where I bought them. The recipe was simple but the result? Show-stopping. This is how baking should feel.

— Bev T., Pottsville Pride, Power, and Prime Movers What a fantastic write-up for the 2025 Casino Truck Show. This isn’t just an event — it’s a celebration of engineering, pride, and local culture. I’ll be dragging three generations along again this year. Keep up the great work showcasing what regional towns do best.

— Sherrie D., Casino

Comedy in a Crockpot

I don’t usually laugh out loud while cooking, but your Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings recipe was a riot. “Floury clouds of joy” and “like you’re casting a spell” — it read like a kitchen sitcom. I made it for my grandkids and they now think I’m a sorcerer. The favour was rich, the dumplings fufy, and it made our Sunday night. More recipes like this, please!

— Carol M., Bangalow

Good on the Mustangs

I want to applaud the Northern Rivers Mustangs for their generous $500 donation to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter. That’s the kind of gesture that defnes the spirit of our local clubs. More coverage like this, please — it shows the heart behind the headlines.

— Brian F., South Lismore

Best It's Ever Looked The paper has never looked better. The new fonts, spacing, and bright layout make it easier on the eyes and more fun to fick through. I fnd myself reading articles I might have skipped before, simply because they’re presented so well. It feels more professional but still has that good old Northern Rivers spirit.

— Elaine M., Clunes

Fantastic... Or Not Quite?

“The Fantastic Four: First Steps” review was spot on. I watched it at Ballina Fair and left feeling hopeful for the franchise, even if the second act dragged. Joseph Quinn and Vanessa Kirby were a strong duo. That Planet Zero visual design was stunning—fnally, Marvel’s giving us more than CGI sludge.

– Naomi T., Lismore

Reed, Sue and Some Grit

Marvel's new Fantastic Four reboot is fnally showing emotional range! I was especially impressed by Paul Walter Hauser’s take on Ben Grimm. It brought a level of humanity I wasn’t expecting. Great to see The Times covering flm with depth.

– Alex B., Lennox Head

Butter Chicken Bliss

I laughed out loud at the recipe for Butter Chicken Pie. Whoever writes these recipes deserves their own show. My partner thought I’d joined a cult when I read out “it should smell so good your neighbours consider breaking in.”

Please never stop this glorious madness.

– Greg S., Murwillumbah

Relieved in More Ways Than One

After the laugh I had reading about the Wade Park toilet block, I took the grandkids down just to see it. And you know what? It really is a marvel of plumbing and politics. More loos, less drama please, Council!

– Fred H., Wollongbar

A Real Sports Lifeline

The announcement about Lismore hosting the Jets vs Roar match made my week. Our community has needed moments of joy after everything it’s been through. Let’s pack out Crozier Field!

– Dana F., Goonellabah

A Pie Worth Fighting For That butter chicken pie recipe on page 35 nearly caused a fork war at our house. I followed every sassy instruction and let me tell you, it was faky, spicy, and devoured in record time. Even the salad was ignored. Please give us more of these riotous recipes—my kids haven’t

looked up from their phones in months, but this pie got their attention.

– Brenda R., Bangalow

Relieved in More Ways Than One

After the laugh I had reading about the Wade Park toilet block, I took the grandkids down just to see it. And you know what? It really is a marvel of plumbing and politics. More loos, less drama please, Council!

– Fred H., Wollongbar

Jets Are a Win for Lismore

Bringing top-level football back to Lismore is a stroke of brilliance. The Jets’ community clinics are just as important as the match—especially for our young athletes still bouncing back after the foods.

– Pat J., Casino

The Best Layout Yet I just wanted to say how much I love the new layout of The Northern Rivers Times. The colours pop, the stories are easy to fnd, and even the classifeds feel tidier. The design team deserves a cheer.

– Maria L., Alstonville

A Farewell to Russell Rose

Reading the tribute to Russell Rose brought tears to my eyes. He was a true gentleman and local legend. Thank you for such a heartfelt piece.

– Fiona R., Tintenbar

Bright, Breezy and Brilliant

This latest issue was visually the most inviting one yet. It’s like the paper has had a good stretch and a cofee—so fresh! The pages practically turned themselves.

– Declan K., Mullumbimby

Economic Trust Is the Real Crisis

The article about distrust harming our economy really resonated. It’s not just numbers—it’s people’s livelihoods. We need leadership that builds trust, not spin.

– Kylie B., Evans Head

Stop the Secret Deals

The Clarence caravan park situation is appalling. Over 100 legal cases? Refusing mediation? Council needs to remember it works for the people.

– Tony E., Iluka

Support Woodburn

What’s happening in Woodburn is heartbreaking. No supermarket, no proper pantry, no vision. Tania Hundy deserves better from our leaders. Let’s rebuild smarter.

– Jenny K., Woodburn

Brahman Beauties

It’s fantastic to see Bizzy and Jomanda Brahman studs getting the spotlight. The genetic detail, the EVBs, the polled bulls— this is the kind of highquality ag reporting I love.

– Clare H., Tabulam

Data-Driven Bulls Are the Future

The focus on carcass traits and calving ease at the Bizzy and Jomanda sale is where the industry should be headed. Thank you for covering it with such clarity.

– Scott D., Mallanganee

Supporting Sporting Champions

Seeing so many Clarence Valley kids recognised as Sporting Champions made me proud. We need to back them with more than just grants—let’s give them facilities and pathways too.

– Michelle A., Maclean

Taking the heat...

ONE of the ultimate Catch-22s in life, well certainly in these blessed-obsessed times, is how much praise and encouragement we give to one-another, as opposed to brutal truth, and hard fact. It’s sometimes a very fne line between overpraising and mollycoddling (as an ‘expected’ default) and interactions that are considered downright rude, or abusive. I broach this subject as sensitively as I can, being one that came to my attention recently via an article that referenced a high-ranking Australian military ofcial who had noted their concern (and I’m paraphrasing) as to how fragile, and lacking in resilience new recruits were proving to be. One launched tirade of abuse, and this current generation seems to drop to the foor in a full foetal position. Which got me thinking, how did we get to this point? Not having the moral fbre or fortitude in ourselves to withstand, albeit overcome opposition, or heaven forbid – any unfair treatment?

Having grown up in the ‘70s and ‘80s, I can still recall seeing the cane being used at school. Not that I was ever on the receiving end of it; the closest I came was being sent to my deputy principal in year 4 and having it waved in front of my face for daring to ask my scripture teacher, “Why was God mostly referred to in human form (being this planet’s most recent occurring creature) and not a jellyfsh, seeing they were one of the oldest known things around, and wouldn’t this make more sense!?”

I’m not sure if not keeping the score in junior sport, or making praise the only utterance you can impart to anyone are prime culprits, or precursors to the interpersonal fragility that we are starting to witness. But I think over-praise and insisting on the perpetuation, at all costs, of twirly-whirly encouragements (even during instances where praise is most certainly not the warranted response) is a prime ‘driver’ that is leading us all in the wrong direction. Not for a moment am I espousing a return to any demeaning, brutal punishment-inclined practices: but throwing the stick away in full favour of stacking our pockets with just carrots, doesn’t seem to be working either. I more than agree with the German social luminary, Goethe who once said, “Instruction does much, but encouragement more... The way you see people is the way you treat them, and the way you treat them is what they become.” As such, we need to become appreciative and resilient, not by being increasingly over-sheltered, but by being exposed, so as to develop our strengths in the face of what needs standing up to, and not feeble shying away from. Maybe I’m too ‘old school’ for my own good, but rattle my cage without just cause, and it won’t cause me to back down, but to rise up, only for what I think is right and non-negotiable. At the end of the day, it’s like Shirley Chisholm once said, “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.”

e Curse of Cassandra

By Tim Howard

As usual the Greeks had a word for it — or in this case, a name: Cassandra.

The beautiful Trojan princess Apollo blessed with the gift of prophecy, but whom he cursed when she spurned his advances.

The curse: no one would believe any of her prophecies, even when they came true.

Cassandra foresaw the fall of Troy, the tragic fate of her siblings and her own death.

She warned the Trojans against bringing that fatal wooden horse inside the walls.

She screamed to deaf ears as the city slid towards its doom.

And then, as fre consumed its temples and people were slaughtered in the streets, no one could say they hadn’t been told. Only that they hadn’t listened.

That ancient curse feels eerily modern.

In the years before Covid-19, epidemiologists were our Cassandras. They had warned for decades of viruses that could jump from animals to humans — especially in a world of globalised travel and ecological disturbance.

In 1994, science journalist Laurie Garrett wrote The Coming Plague, describing in chilling detail how a novel virus could spark a global catastrophe.

But when it happened, many dismissed the science as alarmism, or worse, conspiracy.

During the pandemic, medical experts pleaded

for public health measures.

Scientists explained transmission dynamics, mask efcacy, the rationale behind vaccines.

Most people listened. But a loud, defant minority did not.

Some doubted the virus itself, some exaggerated the risks of the vaccine, others insisted it was all a global plot.

Facts became fungible.

Expertise was framed as elitism. And when the death toll mounted and hospitals overfowed, the response was not remorse — but redoubled denial.

Those who had read the data, followed the maths, trusted the science — they were the ones accused of spreading misinformation.

Meanwhile, social media amplifed every crank theory and fed confrmation bias until reason collapsed into tribal belief.

People who proudly declared they’d “done their research” couldn’t distinguish a peerreviewed study from a YouTube video. Medical journals were dismissed as propaganda.

Those who got vaccinated and remained healthy were told they were lucky — as though reason itself had lost the argument to chance.

This wasn’t a oneof. We’ve seen the same curse afict other domains. Take fuoride.

In the 1960s in Grafton, dentists, and Grafton City aldermen, J J Fahey and Burt Dawes fought tooth and nail to get fuoride added to the water supply.

When the fuoride plant was installed, someone blew it up with a homemade bomb.

Undeterred, the proponents secured state funding for a new plant and Grafton’s water was fuoridated.

The debate remained intense to the extent that in the 1964 Jacaranda Festival parade, there were rival foats: one anti-fuoride and one pro.

At the conclusion of the parade the participants — apparently drunk — clashed. Someone was speared with a tomato stake and a frearm was produced, though no shots were fred.

Police were called, charges laid, careers ruined, but the critics remained vocal.

And what was the result?

Fahey said that within a short time, a Saturday morning clinic he ran at Grafton Hospital, where he had to “yank rotting teeth” from children’s mouths, was no longer needed.

Or climate change. Decades of scientifc warnings — melting glaciers, rising seas, vanishing species — have been met with either wilful blindness or outright denial. Instead of trusting climate scientists, some turn to social media infuencers and fossil fuel-funded think tanks.

We trust less those with credentials, and more those with charisma.

As if the lesson we took from Cassandra wasn’t that she was right, but that being right made her

annoying.

What’s truly perverse is how those peddling the denial — the anti-vaxxers, the antifuoriders, the climate change deniers — cast themselves as the Cassandras.

They see themselves as brave truth-tellers exposing a grand coverup. But this mythology only holds if you ignore the bodies, the foods, the fres, the warming oceans.

And the fact that a genuine conspiracy — requiring the silence of hundreds of thousands of scientists, doctors, journalists and civil servants worldwide — is not just implausible, but logistically impossible.

If Covid vaccines were as dangerous as claimed, where were the bodies?

We saw them when the virus surged — mass graves in Brazil, refrigerated trucks as morgues in New York. But no such piles ever materialised from the vaccine rollout. There were side efects, yes — all medicines carry risk. But they were vanishingly rare. The real numbers show this clearly. Yet some prefer anecdotes to data, because numbers don’t fatter belief.

There’s a deeper problem here: trust. In the early days of the pandemic trust in institutions soared.

People looked to governments, scientists, and journalists for guidance. But as the sacrifces mounted — lockdowns, lost jobs, funerals on Zoom — that trust frayed. When the vaccine arrived swiftly, a

In 1994 in The Coming Plague, Laurie Garrett looked at 50 years of science’s eforts to combat the rise of diseases that could become the next major epidemic. She also noted a disturbing lack of interest in what science was telling us.

triumph of science, it was met by many not with relief but suspicion.

It was a moment of hope — drowned not in doubt, but in mistrust.

German author Günter Grass once wrote that doubt was what fascists could not abide.

In From the Diary of a Snail, his strange and brilliant blend of memoir, politics and parable, he argued that doubt — not certainty — is the moral centre of democratic life.

It’s what slows us down, forces us to refect, to listen, to change our minds.

To Grass, real progress was slow, almost painfully so — like a snail inching forward, vulnerable but persistent. That’s what made it humane.

Totalitarianism, by contrast, hates slowness.

It demands speed, obedience, clarity —

no room for nuance or inconvenient facts.

Grass, who had once worn the uniform of the Wafen-SS as a teenager, knew too well where that kind of certainty could lead.

The man who once followed orders later made it his mission to insist on hesitation.

In our age of infuencers and instant opinion, doubt is often mistaken for weakness.

But perhaps it’s our last defence. It’s what keeps us asking questions, even when the answers seem obvious.

And it’s what keeps the Cassandras speaking — not because they are certain they are right, but because they fear what will happen if we stop listening altogether.

Because the Cassandras are still warning us. And next time, we may not get another chance.

Market Square in Grafton has been the focal point of the Jacaranda Festival and in 1964 there was some serious shenanigans when pro- and anti-fuoride protesters who prepared foats for the parade came to blows.

Festival

Nigel Morris Returns to Rainbow Power Company as Chair in Leadership Refresh

In a landmark move for Australia’s renewable energy sector, Nigel Morris, a Solar Hall of Fame inductee and pioneer of the industry, has returned to Rainbow Power Company as Chair of the Board, efective Monday, 14 July 2025 Morris’s appointment marks a return to where his infuential solar journey began over 34 years ago, and forms part of a broader leadership renewal strategy for Australia’s longest-running solar enterprise.

“I’m thrilled to return to the company that gave me my start,” said Morris. “Rainbow Power Company has been the heartbeat of renewable energy in the Northern Rivers for almost four decades. My goal is to ensure it remains at the forefront of Australia’s solar revolution while staying grounded in its community values.”

This leadership refresh follows the recent appointment of Matthew Wittemeier as Chief Executive Ofcer, announced last month. Together, Morris and

Nigel Morris, a Solar Hall of Fame inductee and pioneer of the industry, has returned to Rainbow Power Company as Chair of the Board

Wittemeier bring global insight, deep technical knowledge, and an unwavering local focus to steer the 37-year-old company into a dynamic new era.

Wittemeier welcomed the announcement, stating, “Nigel brings gravitas and passion to our board. His return supports our mission to be the trusted local partner for renewable energy in the region and beyond. We’re rebuilding trust through expertise, accessibility, and community engagement.”

Morris’s resume includes senior roles at BP Solar, CATCH Power, Solar Analytics, and Roof Juice, as well as founding Solar Business Services, Australia’s foremost solar consultancy. He is also co-

host of the Just Another Solar Podcast, one of the sector’s most respected platforms.

The leadership transition also sees Carly Chapman stepping down as Chair and moving into the role of Company Secretary, where she will continue to lend her fnancial and strategic acumen. Ken Jones, who has held the Company Secretary position since 2019, remains on the board as Director.

“We thank Carly for her strong leadership and Ken for his dedicated service,” said Wittemeier. “Their continued presence ensures stability as we move forward.”

The board reshufe underscores Rainbow Power Company’s commitment to combining deep-rooted expertise with fresh direction, ensuring the company continues to serve its community and lead in solar innovation.

“What excites me most is the opportunity ahead,” Morris added. “Rainbow Power has endured every twist in Australia’s solar story. With this team, we’re poised to thrive well into the future.”

New Waste Voucher System Offers More Choice for Kyogle Ratepayers

Greater fexibility and value in Council’s updated rubbish disposal initiative

Kyogle Council has unveiled a more fexible waste voucher system, giving local ratepayers the option to use their annual $50 voucher on one large rubbish load or several smaller loads — depending on what suits their household best. The change, set to take efect in the coming month, is a direct response to community feedback. The updated system ofers more choice and afordability for residents dealing with waste management amid ongoing cost of living pressures.

Mayor Danielle Mulholland said the improved scheme is designed to be more practical for the diferent needs of ratepayers.

“People really appreciate Council’s waste vouchers, particularly with cost of living pressures biting,”

Cr Mulholland said. “And this new system means they will be able to use the voucher however they like.”

Whether residents are doing a major cleanup or making small, periodic trips to the tip, the revamped voucher scheme allows them to manage rubbish disposal in a way that fts their schedule and situation.

“If you are doing a big clean out and have a large load of rubbish to get rid of, you can use the voucher in one go,” Cr Mulholland explained. “Alternatively, you can use it for 10 separate small wheelie bin loads of rubbish or use it to get rid of individual items such as a mattress or fridge.”

The maximum size for a single large load redeemable under the voucher is one ute and trailer combination, with trailers up to 7 feet by 5 feet permitted.

Kyogle Council staf will track the use of the $50 voucher and retain it once the full value has been used. Importantly, the voucher cannot be partially paid with cash or credit if a load exceeds the remaining balance, and any unused value is not redeemable for cash.

There are also some exclusions. The voucher cannot be used to dispose of asbestos, hazardous materials, or deceased animals.

Mayor Mulholland said the initiative was a clear example of Council listening and acting on community input.

“I know this change will be welcomed by a large number of people and refects Council’s willingness to listen and respond to community need,” she said.

Ratepayers are encouraged to contact Kyogle Council or visit the ofcial website for further details as the rollout date approaches.

Jef Gibbs

Jef Gibbs

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Spain

There’s a rhythm to Spain that pulls you in—whether it's the swirl of a famenco dress in Seville, the buzz of tapas bars in Barcelona, or the peaceful hum of cicadas in the Andalusian hills. A country where every region feels like a diferent world, Spain blends centuries of history with a passionate zest for life. From coast to mountains, art to architecture, food to festas, this is a country that celebrates every moment— and invites you to do the same.

Top 5 Places to Visit

1. Barcelona

Famed for Gaudí’s surreal architecture, Barcelona ofers beaches, buzzing markets like La Boqueria, and the ever-impressive Sagrada Família.

2. Madrid

Spain’s capital pulses with energy. Explore world-class museums like the Prado, stroll through El Retiro Park, and enjoy late-night tapas in La Latina.

3. Seville

This Andalusian gem radiates Moorish charm. Visit the Alcázar, climb the Giralda, and catch authentic famenco in the Triana district.

4. Granada

Home to the stunning Alhambra palace, Granada ofers breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada and a

mix of Islamic and Spanish history.

5. San Sebastián

A foodie’s paradise in the Basque Country, with pristine beaches and more Michelin stars per capita than anywhere else in Europe.

5 Best Deals and How to Save Money

1. Menu del Día

Many restaurants ofer a fxed-price lunch menu (starter, main, drink, and dessert) for €10–15. It's delicious and economical.

2. City Tourist Cards Cards like the Barcelona Card or Madrid Pass ofer discounts on transport and attractions.

3. Free Walking Tours

Available in most major cities—pay what you feel it's worth. Great way to get local insight.

4. Of-Peak Travel

Avoid July–August. Visit in spring or autumn for lower prices, cooler weather, and fewer crowds.

5. Regional Trains

RENFE regional trains are cheaper than high-speed AVE services and great for short journeys between towns.

5 Travel Tips

1. Embrace Siesta Time

Shops often close between 2–5 PM. Plan your day around it—use this time to relax or eat.

2. Learn Key Spanish Phrases

Basic greetings and courtesy phrases go a long way, especially in smaller towns.

3. Carry Cash

Many places still prefer cash, especially in rural areas and for small

purchases.

4. Watch for Pickpockets

Stay alert in crowded areas like Las Ramblas (Barcelona) and Metro stations in Madrid.

5. Book in Advance for Big Attractions

Tickets for the Alhambra or Sagrada Família can sell out—book online ahead of time.

Conclusion

Spain is a celebration of life, culture, and connection. With the right planning, it’s easy to explore its dynamic cities, tranquil coastlines, and vibrant traditions without overspending. Whether you’re dancing in the streets of Seville or sipping Rioja in a sleepy village, every moment in Spain feels alive.

Currency and Budget Considerations

Spain uses the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, though small vendors prefer cash. Daily Budget Estimates:

•Budget traveller: €40–70

•Mid-range: €80–130

•Luxury: €180+

Tipping is optional. Round up bills or leave 5–10% in restaurants for good service.

Accommodation: From Luxury to Budget

Luxury

• Hotel Alfonso XIII, Seville (5-star) – Lavish Moorish design and royal history.

• W Barcelona (5-star) – Iconic beachfront hotel with panoramic views.

Mid-Range

• Room Mate Hotels (Barcelona/Madrid) – Stylish and central with excellent service.

• Hotel Molina Lario, Málaga (4-star) – Great location and rooftop pool.

Budget

• Pensiónes and Hostales – Small, afordable, family-run accommodations found throughout Spain.

• TOC Hostels or Generator Hostels – Clean, fun and centrally located in major cities.

Best Ways to Get Around

• Trains: The AVE high-speed network connects major cities in hours. Book in advance for savings.

• Metro and Buses: Most cities have excellent public transport with multi-ride ticket options.

• Car Hire: Ideal for exploring rural regions or coastal drives, especially in Andalusia or Catalonia.

• Domestic Flights: Low-cost carriers ofer cheap fights between cities if time is tight.

Jef Gibbs

Together (2025) A Sharp, Honest Lockdown Drama That Cuts Deep Times

Jef Gibbs

The Plot

The Northern Rivers Times

ENTERTAINMENT

July 31, 2025

The story centres on a middle-aged couple living in London with their young son, Artie. Their names are never revealed— just “He” (James McAvoy) and “She” (Sharon Horgan)—emphasising that their experience is universal. They are polar opposites. “He” is a self-employed businessman with strong conservative views and a combative attitude. “She” works for a refugee charity, guided by empathy and social responsibility. The

two can barely stand each other, and their relationship is held together only by necessity and their shared responsibility to raise their son.

WHO TO CALL IN AN EMERGENCY

Know who to call when you’re in need!

When the UK government announces its frst COVID lockdown, the couple fnd themselves trapped together. The forced proximity brings their diferences into sharp focus. They argue over politics, parenting, values, and each other’s failures. Much of their dialogue is delivered straight to the camera, creating an intense, confessional atmosphere that pulls the viewer into their private battlefeld.

Despite the bitterness, the flm fnds humour in their exchanges. Their bickering is biting and often hilarious, laced with sarcasm and frustration. But as the months drag on, real loss enters the picture. When “She’s” elderly mother dies from COVID in a care home, unable to be visited, the flm pivots to something more sobering. It becomes not just a portrait of a crumbling relationship but a refection on grief, guilt, and the inadequacy of the systems meant to protect us.

Starring: James McAvoy and Sharon Horgan

Written by: Dennis Kelly

Directed by: Stephen Daldry

Set entirely inside one home during the height of the COVID-19 lockdown, Together (2025) is a raw, often uncomfortable, yet deeply human drama that explores the emotional fallout of a failing relationship under extreme pressure. Featuring only two on-screen characters, the flm strips back every cinematic convention and lets its stars deliver powerhouse performances in a brutally honest look at love, resentment, and survival during one of the most isolating periods in recent memory.

The Performances

James McAvoy and Sharon Horgan are extraordinary. With no other characters to rely on, they carry the entire flm through dialogue and expression alone. McAvoy, known for dramatic intensity (Atonement, Split), brings raw emotional energy to “He”—a man who masks pain

with bravado. Horgan, best known for her comedic talents (Catastrophe), proves she’s equally skilled in dramatic roles. Her portrayal of “She” balances sharp wit with heartbreaking vulnerability, especially in the scenes dealing with her mother’s death.

Their chemistry is electric—flled with tension, rage, and rare glimpses of tenderness. The performances are so authentic they often feel improvised, even though every line is carefully scripted by Dennis Kelly.

Behind the Scenes

The flm was written by Dennis Kelly (Utopia, Pulling) and directed by Stephen Daldry (The Hours, Billy Elliot). It was shot in just 10 days during the pandemic with a small crew. The minimalist approach—one set, two actors—works brilliantly, keeping the focus on character rather than spectacle. The fourth-wallbreaking dialogue is unusual in flm but suits the theatrical style, drawing viewers in as silent observers.

Interesting Facts

•Though it frst aired on the BBC in 2021, Together received a broader cinema release in 2025 to mark fve years since the pandemic began. •The flm's dialogue was partially shaped by real interviews and media coverage from the height of the UK lockdown. •The characters’ lack of names allows audiences to project their own experiences onto the story, making it feel strikingly personal.

Rating: ««««¶ (4 out of 5) Together is not always easy to watch, but it’s unforgettable. For Australian audiences who lived through long lockdowns, border closures, and family separation, it ofers a painful but powerful refection. Intimate, intelligent, and emotionally fearless, Together reminds us how crisis doesn’t just expose governments—it exposes relationships, too.

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.

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 DEXTEROUS

(a) Skilful in the use of hands or mind

(b) Expressing devotion

(c) Moist with dew

2 EMULOUS

(a) Derived from experience

(b) Easily affected by emotion

(c) Desirous of equalling or excelling

3 OBDURATE

(a) Hard-hearted

(b) Submissive to authority

(c) Tending to confuse

4 PENOLOGY

(a) Skill in writing

(b) The science of the punishment of crime

(c) Sorrow for sin

5 TELLURIAN

(a) An inhabitant of the earth

(b) A rare silver-white element

(c) A small badger-like mammal

1 The Sky Tower is an iconic landmark of which city of New Zealand? (a) Christchurch (b) Auckland (c) Wellington (d) Dunedin

2 How many years old was Martin Luther King, Jr. when he was assassinated in 1968? (a) 59 (b) 49 (c) 39 (d) 29

3 Traditional dhana jeera is a mix of which two spices? (a) Coriander and cumin (b) Caraway and cardamom (c) Fenugreek and cumin (d) Cardamom and dill

4 What is the second-largest country in Central America by area?

(a) Honduras (b) Nicaragua (c) Panama (d) Costa Rica

5 Ennis del Mar is one of the main characters in which movie? (a) A Beautiful Mind (b) The Piano (c) Brokeback Mountain (d) Catch Me If You Can

6 Which team defeated the Sydney Swans in the 2024 AFL Grand Final? (a) Collingwood Magpies (b) Brisbane Lions (c) Geelong Cats (d) West Coast Eagles

WEEKLY CROSSWORD

BEST ON THE BOX

FRIDAY

PATIENCE

ABC TV, 8.35pm

This York-based series follows a civilian with an extraordinary knack for seeing what other people don’t. Here, it’s Patience Evans (Ella Maisy Purvis, pictured), a young woman with autism whose aptitude for pattern recognition has caught the eye of DI Bea Metcalf (Laura Fraser). Tonight, in “My Brother’s Keeper”, Patience tries to help her friend Billy (Connor Curren) in the aftermath of his brother’s death. But when the body disappears from the morgue, Bea and DS Jake Hunter (Nathan Welsh) get involved. Believing his brother might not have been stolen, but in fact is still alive and simply walked out of the mortician’s lab, Billy ropes Patience in on his own investigation.

FRIDAY, August 1

SUNDAY

THE 65TH TV WEEK LOGIE AWARDS 2025

SEVEN, 7.30pm

Australian television’s A-listers are all glammed up (check out the frocks in the Red Carpet show, hosted by Sonia Kruger and Dr Chris Brown, from 7pm) and ready to celebrate the best of the best local talent.

Comedian Sam Pang (pictured) returns for a third stint as host, and two-time winner Hamish Blake is up for his third Gold Logie. He’s the odd man out in the nomination line-up though, with six strong women – Lynne McGranger, Lisa Millar, Ally Langdon, Sonia Kruger, Julia Morris and Poh Ling Yeow – hoping to grab the Gold. But it’s not all trophies and acceptance speeches –rock legend Jimmy Barnes will be on hand to provide some musical relief.

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Poh’s Kitchen. (R) 10.30 Home Delivery. (PG, R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Bay Of Fires. (Malv, R)

2.00 Muster Dogs: Collies And Kelpies. (PG, R) 2.55 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) 3.45 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (PG, R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

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

7.35 Gardening Australia. Costa visits a subtropical cottage garden.

8.35 Patience. (Ma) Patience helps her friend Billy after his brother’s body goes missing.

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

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

10.45 ABC Late News.

11.00 Austin. (PG, R)

11.30 Silent Witness. (Mav, R)

12.30 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

THURSDAY

BACK ROADS

ABC TV, 8pm

After 10 years

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

6.00 Morning Programs. 8.00 WorldWatch. 11.00 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. Stage 5. H’lights. 12.00 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. Stage 6. H’lights. 1.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Great Australian Road Trips. (R) 3.00 Nula. 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.00 Garma Festival 2025 Opening Ceremony. 5.30 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. Stage 6. H’lights.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 The Good Ship Murder. (PGv)

8.25 The Royals: A History Of Scandals: Witchcraft. Suzannah Lipscomb investigates British royalty.

9.20 Britain’s Most Luxurious Train Journeys: English Riviera. (PG, R)

10.15 SBS World News Late.

10.45 Who Do You Think You Are? (PGa, R) 11.35 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. Stage 7.

2.05 Romulus. (MA15+av, R)

3.55 Scotland’s Extreme Medics. (Mal, 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. Charlie Albone looks at damaged azaleas.

8.30 MOVIE: The Help. (2011, Ma, R) During the civil rights movement of the ’60s, an aspiring author decides to write a book detailing the African-American maids’ point of view on the white families they work for and the hardships they experience. Emma Stone, Viola Davis, Octavia Spencer.

11.30 Dancing With The Stars. (PG, R) Celebrities show o their dance skills.

12.50 The Disappearance. (MA15+av, R) The mystery is becoming clear.

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 Femmes. H’lights. 3.00 Cycling. Tour de France Femmes. H’lights. 4.05 BBC News At Ten. 4.35 France 24. 5.05 PBS News. 6.05 If You Are The One. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Love And Sex In South Korea. 9.35 Sex With Sunny Megatron. 10.45 Homeland. 1.35am Somewhere Boy. 2.05 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 The Zoo. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Harry’s Practice. 2.30 Weekender. 3.00 The Great Australian Doorstep. 3.30 The Great Outdoors. 4.00 The Zoo. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape

sharing the best stories from rural Australia with us, Heather Ewart farewelled the show

week’s episode, and now we need to get comfortable with having someone else at the wheel.

Former News Breakfast host Lisa Millar (pictured) is in the driver’s seat now, and rst destination is a dead-set country icon – the Snowy River. Near its source on slopes of Mount Kosciuszko, Millar meets 98-year-old Tommy Tomasi, who shares his stories about building the Snowy Hydro Scheme. Further south, she takes a paddling trip through some rapids with Craig Ingram, whose passion is preserving this mighty river and its native sh.

(5) NBN (8, 80)

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 22. Brisbane Broncos v South Sydney Rabbitohs.

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

10.45 MOVIE: Rambo: First Blood Part II. (1985, Mlv, R) A Vietnam War veteran rescues POWs. Sylvester Stallone, Richard Crenna.

12.40 Tipping Point. (PG)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

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

12.55pm Mecha Builders. 2.05 Paddington. 2.30 Mister Maker Around The World. 3.00 Play School. 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: Yogi Bear. (2010, PG) 9.15 Robot Wars. 10.15 Merlin. 11.00 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. Noon MOVIE: June Again. (2020, M) 2.00 Golden Girls. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched.

9GO! (83) 6am Bran Nue Dae. Continued. (2009, PG) 6.35 Fried Green Tomatoes. (1991, PG) 8.55 3 Days In Quiberon. (2018, PG, French) 11.05 Book Of Love. (2022) 1.05pm The Heartbreak Kid. (1993, M) 2.55 The Movie Show. 3.30 The Company. (2003, PG) 5.35 The Grass Harp. (1995, PG) 7.35 Hope Gap. (2019, M) 9.30 Bergman Island. (2021) 11.40 The Love Witch. (2016) 1.55am Some Kind Of Beautiful. (2014, M) 3.50 Charlie And Boots. (2009, M) 5.40 The Movie Show.

8.40 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Celebrity panellists compete to see who can remember the most about events of the week. 9.40 The Graham Norton Show. (Mlv, R) Guests include Bradley Cooper, Carey Mulligan, Bryan Cranston, Bryce Dallas Howard, Daniel Kaluuya and Kevin Bridges.

10.40 10’s Late News.

10 News+. (R)

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

(52) 7MATE (64)

TARGET TIME

E T A

U F R

O T N Today’s target: 15 words average 18 words good 24+ words excellent

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

STARS & PUZZLES

ASTROLOGY with Joanne

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Auspac Media

You’ve got a lot on your plate as Saturn, Neptune and Chiron are all currently transiting through Aries. So, you’re focused on healing emotional wounds, fixing problems, tapping into your creativity and finding spiritual solace. So, what’s the best advice for getting through a complicated and rather confusing week? It comes from singer, songwriter and musician Kate Bush (who celebrates her 67th birthday on Wednesday): “Only you can sort yourself out.”

TAURUS (Apr 20 – May 20)

Are you feeling hemmed in at home? Mercury is reversing through your domestic zone (until August 11), which could cramp your style. Try cleaning, decluttering, renovating and/or extending your present living space so it’s more spacious. Bulls need room to move! Expect some family dramas, though, as impatience and uncertainty overtake common sense. If you try to escape from your current commitments, then loved ones won’t be impressed.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 20)

Expect conversations to be confusing as Uranus upsets plans and retrograde Mercury muddles your mind, which could result in the tendency to send and/or receive mixed messages. So slow down and think things through before you ring, text, email, publish or post. There could also be some stress involving finances or a bout of selfdoubt. Mercury (your ruling planet) turns direct on August 11, so – until then – be diligent and check everything twice.

CANCER (June 21 – July 22)

With Jupiter and Venus both transiting through your sign, it’s time to be bold and beautiful! Don’t let other people (including the media) set your individual agenda and dictate your personal style. Strive to be creatively and proactively 100% you!

So, your motto for the moment is from birthday great, designer Yves Saint Laurent: “Fashions fade, style is eternal.” On Friday and Saturday, tread carefully with a difficult colleague, client or customer.

Mercury is reversing through your sign until August 11, so plans will proceed slowly. And friendships look particularly tricky, as Saturn and Neptune also stir up difficulties and confusion. Spend time networking with your peer group and trying to patch up problems before they multiply. Be inspired by fellow Leo, actress Gillian Anderson (who turns 57 next week): “I believe people are in our lives for a reason. We’re here to learn from each other.”

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

There could be a problem with a lover, relative, friend or colleague, as Saturn increases responsibilities and Neptune creates confusion. With the Sun and retrograde Mercury in your solitude zone, put aside some quality time for solo pursuits like meditation, prayer, contemplation, yoga and/or journal writing. Your motto for the week is from birthday great Kate Bush (who turns 67 on Wednesday): “There’s an awful lot you learn about yourself when you’re alone.”

LIBRA (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

Many Librans are polite procrastinators who can have trouble making decisions. You want to please everyone, which of course is impossible! So, you can end up sitting on the fence, watching other people make important decisions for you. Which means you then place your destiny in the hands of others. This week – even though you’ll feel confused – consider your choices carefully. And – even though it will be difficult – it’s time to make a firm decision.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

With Mercury reversing through your career zone (until August 11), proceed carefully with a complicated professional project. If you are too hasty (or too stubborn) then you’ll experience communication problems with a work colleague, client or customer. Also, confusing old feelings could resurface, as a relative or friend pushes your emotional buttons. Simmer down, Scorpio, otherwise you run the risk of turning a minor matter into a major obsession.

Venus shifts into your money-from-others zone on Thursday, which is usually lucky financially. Don’t be extravagant though! You’ll find the more you respect and conserve money, the more cash will come your way. When it comes to a personal relationship, are you dealing with an unpredictable situation? Expect some resistance from others – especially a romantic partner or a close friend. A quick fix won’t work. Take the time to really think things through.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Mercury is retrograde until August 11, so slow down, cool down and calm down, Capricorn! Don’t make major mountains out of minor molehills and waste precious time worrying about transient problems, especially at work. Things won’t run according to plan and, if there are complications, then clever communication will help you through any temporary turbulence. Venus transits into your relationship zone on Thursday, so it’s time to pamper loved ones.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Mercury (planet of communication) is reversing through your relationship zone until August 11, so be extra careful how you treat other people (in person and online). Self-indulgent behaviour, unrealistic expectations and controversial comments will just boomerang back on you! Things look particularly tricky on Friday and Saturday, when a misunderstanding (with a family member, friend or neighbour) could leave you feeling frustrated and misunderstood.

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Does your daily life seem to be moving along at a super-slow snail’s pace? Are you lacking vim, verve, mojo and motivation? Be patient, Pisces, and have faith that promising things are developing behind the scenes. Mercury is retrograde (in your daily routine zone) so it’s time to retreat and reflect. On Friday night/Saturday morning there’s a Venus/Neptune square, when you’ll tend to view people and situations through decidedly rosecoloured glasses.

Madeline Moore

Andrew Denton and Julian Kingma Explore The Power of Choice at Byron Writers Festival 2025

A moving conversation on life, death, and dignity

In one of the most anticipated sessions of Byron Writers Festival 2025, acclaimed advocate Andrew Denton and award-winning photographer Julian Kingma will take the stage to explore the deeply personal and profoundly important topic of voluntary assisted dying in The Power of Choice Set to unfold on Saturday 9 August from 2.15pm to 3.15pm at the A&I Hall in Bangalow , this session promises to be a powerful meditation on what it means to choose dignity at the end of life. Portraits, stories, and a brave discussion

Julian Kingma’s evocative portraits and Denton’s accompanying essay come together to form The Power of

Choice, a thoughtful and humane tribute to those who have faced the decision of voluntary assisted dying. This event will showcase Kingma’s images alongside a candid and compassionate conversation with respected journalist Virginia Trioli

Together, the trio will examine what constitutes a “good death” and what we can learn from those who have faced death with agency and clarity.

From advocacy to art Andrew Denton, best known for his work on Enough Rope and as a long-time advocate for end-of-life choice, brings both personal insight and national advocacy experience to the discussion. Julian Kingma, celebrated for his ability to capture raw humanity through the lens,

Byron Community Market Brings Creative Energy Back to the Foreshore this August

The beloved Byron Community Market returns to the Main Beach foreshore on Sunday 3 August, promising a vibrant celebration of local art, handmade goods, and coastal creativity.

From 8am to 2pm, more than 200 stallholders will transform the beachfront into a buzzing hub of community, craftsmanship, and culture. Visitors can explore an eclectic mix of handmade fashion

, artisan homewares , original artworks, and local gourmet treats, all while enjoying live music by the sea

complements the dialogue with compelling visual storytelling.

Session details

•Event: The Power of Choice

•Speakers: Andrew Denton, Julian Kingma, in conversation with Virginia Trioli

•Date: Saturday, 9 August

•Time: 2.15pm – 3.15pm

•Location: A&I Hall, Bangalow

•Access: Included with a 3-Day Pass or Saturday 1-Day Pass

A highlight of Byron Writers Festival ‘25

This session is a mustsee for anyone interested in ethics, compassion, personal agency, and the power of storytelling. As part of a vibrant festival program, The Power of Choice stands out as a brave and tender refection on a subject that afects us all.

“There’s something magical about market day in Byron,” said Carl Taylor, Markets Manager. “The salt air, the music, the makers—it’s a gathering that refects the

‘Yesterday,

heart of our region.”

Among this month’s featured artists is Laila Trees, a Byronbased painter whose detailed, nature-inspired watercolours have won a loyal following. Raised across Provence, Wales, India, and the US, and holding a Fine Arts degree from the UK, Laila brings a rich multicultural depth to her work.

Her stall will showcase original artworks, fne art prints, and cards, including her best-selling piece Rainforest Tree , which conceals native birds among lush local foliage. “It’s not just about selling art,” Laila explains.

“It’s about connection and storytelling—and the Byron Markets ofer that space to truly connect.”

The August market

lineup also includes live performances by Laverde Trio, Martin Lartigo, and Anna & Jordan, ofering a soulstirring Sunday soundtrack in one of Byron’s most iconic locations.

Whether you’re shopping for a unique gift, meeting a local maker, or just enjoying the creative energy and coastal vibes , the Byron Community Market is an unforgettable experience.

Market Details:

Event: Byron

Community Market

Date: Sunday 3 August

Time: 8am–2pm

Location: Main Beach

Foreshore, Byron Bay Live Music: Laverde Trio, Martin Lartigo, Anna & Jordan

Info: www. byronmarkets.com.au

Today, Tomorrow’: Heidi Ledwell’s First Solo Exhibition Opens in Uki

Art and history meet in a colourful and thoughtprovoking way as Heidi Ledwell’s exhibiton Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow opens at Art Post Uki on Thursday 31 July at 6pm. The show marks the gallery’s 61st exhibiton and is Ledwell’s frst solo display.

Ledwell, who has lived and worked as an artst at Fingal Head for the past 17 years, was inspired by Uki’s rich history when preparing for this exhibiton. She studied old photographs of the town and used them as the basis for a series of nine acrylic paintngs, each capturing moments from the past and reimagining them with a playful yet refectve style.

The works range from depictons of the oncegrand A.S. Loder’s department store—the largest of its kind between Brisbane and Newcastle in the 1920s—to bullock teams hauling massive logs past the historic Uki pub. Through her vivid brushwork, Ledwell highlights both the charm and the environmental consequences of the

region’s past, with many landscapes stripped bare by early setlement and ringbarking.

In a whimsical touch, each paintng also features a hidden Albert’s lyrebird, a species now considered vulnerable due to habitat loss. Like a nostalgic “Where’s Wally?”, the lyrebirds encourage viewers to engage deeply with the artworks and refect on the impact of environmental change.

“This exhibiton is about glimpses of the past and how those moments

shape what we are today and what we may become,” Ledwell said.

“It’s a dream come true to share this work with the community.”

Before pursuing art fulltme, Ledwell worked as a graphic designer before studying Art and Paintng at Murwillumbah TAFE.

Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow runs at the Uki Post Ofce Gallery untl 10 September Opening hours are 7am–5pm weekdays, 7.30am–12.30pm Saturdays, and 8am–12.30pm Sundays.

Andrew Denton (right) and Julian Kingma (left) Explore The Power of Choice at Byron Writers Festival 2025

2026 Subaru Outback Reinvents Itself as a True SUV for Australia

Subaru’s most iconic nameplate, the Outback, has o4icially evolved. Once regarded as a lifted wagon for the adventurous, the all-new 2026 Subaru Outback sheds its estatecar image and fully embraces its identity as a rugged midsize SUV. Unveiled at the 2025 New York Auto Show, the seventh-generation Outback is due to arrive in Australia in 2026—bigger, boxier, and bolder than ever.

No More Sitting on the Fence: It’s an SUV Now

With Subaru o4icially retiring the Legacy sedan, the Outback no longer needs to share its underpinnings with a roadfocused sibling. The result is a striking new design that leans heavily into the SUV segment. Gone is the sleek silhouette of the past. In

its place is a taller stance, squared-o4 wheel arches, a higher roofine, and bold black cladding that screams o4-road readiness.

Subaru says the new design is not just about looks. The raised roof and squarer shape also deliver increased headroom and better visibility, all while enhancing o4-road durability and presence.

Modern Tech Meets Classic Practicality Step inside, and you’ll fnd a dramatically updated cabin built with comfort and connectivity in mind. The centre console now features a 12.1-inch touchscreen running Google’s Android Automotive OS, o4ering built-in Google Maps, Google Assistant, and app store integration. It’s joined by a crisp 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, giving the cockpit a contemporary

feel.

Despite the digital push, Subaru has wisely retained physical climate controls, ensuring ease of use on bumpy tracks. Noise insulation has been upgraded across the board, with new materials reducing cabin noise by 10%. Even the seating has had a rethink: new “lowfatigue” seats are now directly mounted to the chassis, providing enhanced comfort for long hauls across Australia’s wide open roads.

Bigger Boot, Better Access

The Outback’s new SUV credentials also translate to improved practicality. The boot space has increased to 972 litres (with rear seats up), thanks to a wider 1.1-metre load foor and a two-inch height increase. This makes

loading gear—whether it's surfboards, eskies, or camping equipment—easier than ever. Roof rails remain standard, and the electric tailgate is available on higher trims.

Power You Can Trust

Under the bonnet, Australian buyers can expect two familiar engines:

l A 2.5-litre naturally aspirated fat-four producing approximately 136 kW and 239 Nm, or

l A 2.4-litre turbocharged fat-four generating up to 194 kW and 375 Nm

Both are paired with Subaru’s well-known symmetrical all-wheel drive system and Lineartronic CVT transmission. Depending on the trim, towing capacity will range from 1,800 kg up to 2,400 kg—ample for towing a small caravan, trailer, or

boat.

Trims and O[-Road Capability

The 2026 Outback range in Australia is expected to include:

l Outback AWD (base model)

l Outback Sport

l Outback Touring

l Outback Wilderness (coming later in 2026)

The Wilderness edition is the most trail-ready, featuring increased ground clearance, enhanced approach and departure angles, underbody skid plates, and all-terrain tyres. Subaru’s X-Mode system is also upgraded, o4ering o4-road traction presets at the push of a button.

Safety Still Comes

Standard

All 2026 Outback models will come with Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which

includes:

l Adaptive cruise control

l Lane centring and lane departure warning

l Forward collision warning with autonomous braking

l Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-tra4ic alert on mid and high-grade variants

The Outback is already a 5-star ANCAP-rated vehicle, and this latest generation is expected to maintain top-tier safety performance.

When Can You Buy It? The 2026 Subaru Outback is expected to land in Australian showrooms by mid-2026.

Pricing hasn’t been confrmed, but it’s likely to start around $48,000 AUD and stretch to over $65,000 AUD for topend turbocharged and Wilderness models.

Jef Gibbs

Outback Wilderness edition shown

New SafeWork Inspectors

Jef Gibbs

Australians for Mental Health has cautiously welcomed the NSW Government’s commitment to hire 51 new SafeWork inspectors, but says the announcement falls short of the meaningful reform needed to address Australia’s workplace mental health crisis.

The new roles were announced as part of the government’s “Irreplaceable” safety campaign, with around half of the new inspectors tasked with improving psychological safety across NSW workplaces. The move comes amid growing concern over rising rates of psychological injury claims and mounting pressure on the workers’ compensation system.

A Positive Step, But Not Enough

“This is an important step,” said Australians

for Mental Health

CEO Chris Gambian

“Stronger enforcement to ensure our workplaces are not just physically but psychologically safe is absolutely an important part of solving this mental health crisis. But 20 new psychosocial-focused inspectors and fve investigators can’t fx a broken system on their own.”

Gambian and other mental health advocates say the current model is reactive, with enforcement arriving only after harm

has occurred. What’s needed, they argue, is a comprehensive overhaul of workplace design and culture to put employee wellbeing at the centre.

Workplace Pressure Is Mounting

The announcement of new inspectors comes after months of criticism of the NSW Government’s proposed changes to workers’ compensation, which would have made it harder for workers with psychological injuries to access long-term support. The proposal, widely

condemned by mental health organisations and unions, has sparked fears that many vulnerable workers could fall through the cracks.

“Some jobs are extremely tough,” Gambian noted. “Challenging work environments are a reality for many — nurses, paramedics, and increasingly, teachers. Making it harder for people to get help when they’re at their lowest is not the answer.”

Call for Systemic Reform

Australians for Mental Health is calling on the NSW Government to go further by embracing whole-of-system reforms

Their vision includes redesigning jobs, holding employers accountable, and ensuring timely, adequate support for workers experiencing mental health challenges.

In its submission to the state inquiry into the workers’ compensation

overhaul, the organisation called for a fve-point reform plan:

Design jobs that support wellbeing, including for people with pre-existing conditions.

Hold employers accountable for ensuring psychologically safe workplaces.

Resolve workplace issues quickly, focusing on restoring trust over legal battles. Provide interim support to allow distressed workers to focus on recovery.

Guarantee long-term care for those with ongoing mental health needs.

Inspectors Can’t Fix Culture Alone

While acknowledging the value of additional inspectors, Gambian warned that true prevention goes beyond regulation

“Inspectors spot hazards, but systemic change can help stop them from happening

in the frst place,” he said. “We can’t expect people to thrive when they’re overwhelmed by impossible workloads and toxic cultures. Without serious reform, psychological injury claims will only continue to rise.”

A National Conversation on Mental Health at Work Australians for Mental Health is a grassroots movement advocating for policies and structures that put wellbeing at the heart of national priorities They believe workplaces must be designed to support mental health, not erode it, and they continue to push for accountability and cultural change at every level. As awareness of psychological safety grows, pressure is mounting on governments and employers to move beyond rhetoric — and deliver lasting change in Australian workplaces.

Jef Gibbs

The public sector may be sprinting into the AI future, but it’s forgetting to lace up its governance boots, warns CPA Australia. A new report from the accounting body fnds that while government departments are embracing generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Copilot, many are doing so without clear policies or guidance – and that’s raising some digital eyebrows. According to a recent

CPA Australia webinar poll, 40% of public servants are using opensource AI tools to get their jobs done. Yet only 24% are using AI provided by their employer. The kicker? Just 30% say their organisation has a clear policy about AI use. Meanwhile, 28% have no policy at all and 10% have absolutely no idea if one even exists. Chaos, anyone?

Gavan Ord, CPA Australia’s Business

Investment Lead, called out the confusion: “One wrong click on an opensource tool could result in a major data breach – and right now, not enough is being done to prevent that.”

He said public sector organisations need “ftfor-purpose” governance frameworks that go beyond compliance to give users clarity, ethical direction, and risk management tools. In other words: more

guidance, less guessing. Ord also raised the red fag on blind faith in AI outputs. “AI should support decision-making, not replace it,” he warned. “The goal is to reduce time on repetitive tasks, not hand over the keys to the robots.”

These concerns come on the heels of a report from the Australian National Audit Ofce, which also found governance around AI to be… let’s say, patchy. In response,

CPA Australia will dive deeper into the issue at its upcoming Government Finance Business Partners Forum in Canberra (July 24–25), with expert Tony Krizan FCPA presenting on the topic.

So yes, AI might be helping public servants smash through their to-do lists – but without better rules, they may be walking a tightrope over a data-security pit. Let’s just hope someone brings a net.

Capital City Price Growth Converges Across Australia

Robert Heyward

Australia’s property market is entering a new phase, with capital city price growth showing signs of stabilisation across the country.

After a year of stark contrasts, price trends in major cities are now converging, according to recent data from PropTrack

Previously booming markets such as Perth, Adelaide, and Brisbane are beginning to slow, while slower-moving markets like Sydney and Melbourne are seeing renewed growth. This shift signals a more balanced and consistent national property landscape.

From Divergence to

Source: PropTrack – Capital City House Price Trends

Convergence In 2024, cities like Perth and Adelaide outperformed the national average, driven by low supply and

strong demand. Perth, in particular, saw doubledigit annual price growth. Meanwhile, Sydney and Melbourne lagged behind, impacted by afordability

challenges and higher borrowing costs.

However, by mid-2025, PropTrack data shows the growth gap has narrowed. Perth’s growth slowed

from 12% to 6%, while Sydney improved from 2.5% to 4.2%, and Melbourne from 1.8% to 3.8%

PropTrack Senior Economist Eleanor Creagh explained the change: “The pace of growth is becoming more uniform across capitals. We’re now seeing a national rebalancing.”

Why the Market Is Leveling Out

Several forces are contributing to this convergence: Interest rates have likely peaked, reducing market uncertainty.

Migration is increasing, boosting demand in larger cities.

Supply remains constrained, with new

home construction lagging due to labour and cost pressures. These factors are supporting prices in Sydney and Melbourne, while moderating growth in previously red-hot markets.

Implications for Buyers and Sellers For buyers in Perth, Adelaide, or Brisbane, conditions may feel less frenzied than in 2024. For sellers in Sydney and Melbourne, the rebound in buyer interest could lead to improved clearance rates and sale prices.

Creagh noted, “While afordability remains stretched, stabilising rates and more even price growth should give buyers more confdence.”

Will the Labor Government Help or Hinder Homeowners?

Robert Heyward

As Australians navigate a tough housing market marked by rising interest rates and cost-ofliving pressures, many are asking whether the Albanese Labor Government is making things better—or worse— for homeowners and buyers.

According to Mortgage Choice, the answer is nuanced.

The Help: Housing Support & First Home Buyer Incentives

The government has taken steps to address afordability and supply. Central to this is the Housing Australia Future Fund, which aims to build 30,000 new social and afordable homes in fve years. While the initiative is still in early stages, it’s

seen as a positive move to ease rental and housing pressures over time.

Another initiative—the Help to Buy Scheme will allow eligible buyers to co-purchase homes with the government, lowering the deposit and mortgage burden. Under this shared equity scheme, the government will contribute up to 40% of the home’s value for new builds and 30% for existing properties

There’s also the First Home Guarantee, which reduces the need for a 20% deposit. Eligible buyers can enter the market with as little as 5%, backed by a government guarantee to avoid Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).

The Hindrance: Rising Rates & Economic Pressures

Despite these programs,

many Australians are still struggling. The cost of living remains high, with infationary pressures pushing the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) to raise interest rates multiple times. This has hit borrowers hard, especially those coming of fxed-rate loans.

The government’s infuence over the RBA is limited, but fscal policy—such as spending and taxation—can indirectly afect infation and rate decisions.

Budget Measures: A Mixed Bag

The 2024–25 Federal Budget included modest relief through energy rebates, increased rent assistance, and small boosts to welfare payments, but critics

argue it lacks meaningful relief for mortgage holders.

For property investors, the retention of negative gearing and capital gains tax discounts means stability. However, there’s rising pressure for tax reform, which could change under future terms.

Final Word: It Depends on Who You Are Mortgage Choice concludes that whether the Labor Government helps or hinders depends on your situation. First-home buyers may beneft from government schemes, but existing mortgage holders may feel little relief as interest rates bite and real wages lag.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese

Grape Expectation by Max Crus

In the olden days there was ‘moonlighting’. There was also the lesser-known version, ‘daylighting’ for those whose frst job was under moonlight.

Additionally, 'daylighting' was the verb of parental abuse of that era when mum or dad would belt the living daylights out of you and in the Batcave, licking your wounds, you’d say to your brother, “I’ve just been daylighted”.

Ahh, the good old days. No wonder daylighting is

Crittenden Mornington

Peninsula Cri de Coeur Chardonnay 2022, $95. Another amazing rendition of chardonnay in that new-age-wine mould that awakens your senses to a diferent realm of alcoholic indulgence, and at $80 this really is indulgence. 9.5/10.

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

An epidemic of Vaxlighting

now a criminal ofence. Actually, that’s not true, daylighting means lighting something by daylight but there are numerous other “lighting” words, most of which have an alternative meaning thanks to the popularisation of ‘Gaslighting’, which in 2016 was named ‘most useful new word’ by the American Dialect Society. Clearly that society had a lot of narcissistic weirdos among its members to vote it “Most useful”, or perhaps

Crittenden Mornington

Peninsula ‘Peninsula’ Rosé, 2024, $39. Rosé is often considered an in between wine, you start and fnish with something else. However this is white enough to begin yet full bodied enough to fnish too, or fnish you of if you can’t bring yourself to stop. 9.3/10.

it merely had many women members who fnally had a recognisable term for their abuse. Anyway it kicked of a blight of new ‘lightings’ by journalists busting to get their name in history books by ‘coining’ a new phrase, possibly even attracting the added gravitas of “Most Useful” from some sociopathic society or other. ‘Greenlighting’, got the green light pretty shortly after ‘Gaslighting’, as did ‘Twilighting’, but the latest entrant to the dictionary,

Crittenden Geppetto Sauvignon Blanc 2024, $26. It’s been a long time between Geppetto SBs, 7 years in fact. Where has it been? There is so much more to recommend SB than, say, pinot gris, we really rue fashion sometimes. SB is simple but so much more interesting. 9.1/10.

‘Vaxlighting’, truly pushes the genre to new heights, or highlights as the case may be.

Like many new words entering the lexicon it is unclear what the term truly means. Whether it is the act of attempting to undermine someone because they are anti-vax or because they are pro-vax is uncertain, but it sounds good and is as apt a retort as any if someone accuses you of being an anti-vaxxer...or a vaxxer. How cool is that?

Barratt Piccadilly Valley Uley Chardonnay 2023, $42. I lived in South Australia for nearly 20 years and never once heard of Uley, yet it has one of those peculiarly delightful Aussie names that at the same time sounds silly and endearing. Anyway that’s not where this is grown. Instead it is clever, Piccadilly Valley stuf, delightful and not at all silly. 9.4/10.

Everyone can use it with impunity when their choice of immunity is questioned, or if they are castigated for supporting Robert F. Kennedy Jr. ...or having a jab at him.

On the other hand, there may be legal hurdles if a certain vacuum cleaner company has already copyrighted the term for the headlights on its premium machines and may signal the end of the term’s popular use unless you buy one.

Barratt Piccadilly Valley Uley Pinot Noir 2023, $49. Uley dooley, two Uley’s in two days. Adelaide Hills pinots are a welcome change of diet for pinotphiles, still pinot but this has greater depth of body than many from say Tassie or Orange, despite this one’s modest 12 per cent. A worthy change of origin, have it with a state of origin match. 9.4/10

Would it constitute a form of ‘Vaxlighting” if they sued you?

Meanwhile, surely there’s a ‘lighting’ term appropriate for the realm of wine?

Alas 'Redlighting’ might conjure an industry even older than wine and ‘Whitelighting’ sounds like it could be used in Guantanamo Bay or perhaps a funeral home. But ‘Winelighting’, sounds nice and could gain some traction.

Barratt Woodside HSV Gamay 2024, $47. Sounds like Holden Special Vehicles has moved into wine sponsorship, and if they haven’t they should. This is purpose built and the best Aussie gamay we’ve tried. Fabulous bright favours, a bit pinotlike but with a satisfyingly darker edge. Really interesting stuf. 9.6/10

WHATS ON THE MENU TO NIGHT?

•Prep 20m

•Cook 25m

•Serves 4

Who knew chicken mince, apricot nectar, and your leftover sandwich crusts could come together to form a golden, sticky tribute to weeknight laziness? These Apricot Chicken Rissoles are the culinary equivalent of wearing pyjamas to a Zoom meeting: easy, satisfying, and suspiciously impressive. No judgement, just juicy, sticky balls of joy.

Ingredients

(Feeds 4 regular humans or 2 post-gym gremlins)

l 500g chicken mince (because beef needs a break)

l 1 small brown onion, grated (and weep quietly about your life choices)

l 1 small zucchini, grated (aka health camoufage)

l 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (or anything crumbly and edible)

l 1 egg (preferably not from your fridge’s mystery shelf)

l 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional but makes you feel fancy)

l 1 tbsp olive oil (liquid gold)

l 1/2 cup apricot nectar (yes, from the tin your gran always had)

l 2 tbsp sweet chilli sauce (for a cheeky kick)

l 1 tbsp soy sauce (because everything tastes better with a little umami drama)

Apricot Chicken Rissoles (AKA Sweet Balls of Glory) Apple Cinnamon Slice

Method to the Madness

l Chuck the mince, onion, zucchini, breadcrumbs, egg, and parsley into a bowl. Mix with clean hands (or gloved ones if you’re squeamish) until it looks like edible playdough.

l Form into golf ball–sized rissoles. Not tennis ball–sized. We're feeding people, not scaring them.

l Heat oil in a large non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Add rissoles, turning until golden and behaving themselves.

Whisk together apricot nectar, sweet chilli sauce, and soy sauce. Pour this glorious goo over your rissoles.

Simmer for 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally until sticky, golden and smelling like your kitchen just won a cooking show.

Tips for Success

l Use gloves for mixing if you’re not emotionally prepared for chicken slime.

l Don’t skip the sauce — it’s the Beyoncé of the dish.

l Serve with rice, salad, or just stand at the stove and eat straight from the pan. We’re not judging.

Conclusion

You started with a tin of nectar and a packet of chook mince, and ended up with applause-worthy rissoles that taste like childhood dinners met a sticky, sweet upgrade. Welcome to peak midweek culinary wizardry — no wand required.

Method to the Madness

l Chuck chopped apples and cinnamon into a bowl. Stir like you’re summoning autumn.

l Add melted butter (try not to drink it), sugar, egg, vanilla and four. Stir until it looks like a lumpy beige swamp of joy.

l Pour the mess into a lined 20cm slice pan. Spread it out with a spatula or your cleanish hands.

Your Brain Aged Faster During the Pandemic

Jef Gibbs

The COVID-19 pandemic didn’t just afect physical health – new research shows it may have accelerated brain ageing in adults, regardless of whether they were infected by the virus.

A landmark international study, published in Nature Human Behaviour, has found that the psychological toll of the pandemic contributed to cognitive decline normally associated with ageing. The fndings suggest that social isolation, stress, and disrupted routines may have had a measurable impact on how the adult brain functions – even in those who remained physically healthy throughout.

The Study and Its Findings

Led by a research team from the University of Oxford, the study analysed cognitive data from more than 3,000 people aged 18 to 96, gathered before, during, and after pandemic lockdowns.

Using the Great British Intelligence Test – a large-scale online platform that assesses attention,

memory, reasoning, and other cognitive functions – researchers were able to track changes in brain performance over time. The key fnding?

Cognitive performance declined at a level typically seen after a year of ageing – but in just under six months. Specifcally, participants scored lower in areas such as memory, attention, and problem-solving compared to their pre-pandemic assessments.

Importantly, these efects were observed in people who never tested positive for COVID-19, suggesting the culprit wasn’t the virus itself, but the environment created by the pandemic.

Mental Strain and Cognitive Decline

The decline was particularly pronounced among older adults, individuals with lower education levels, and those experiencing high levels of loneliness or mental health struggles during the pandemic. Lead author Dr. Ruben Arslan explained that stress, uncertainty, and lack of social interaction created a “perfect storm” for the brain.

“Social and

environmental enrichment are essential for maintaining cognitive function. The pandemic stripped away many of those supports,” Arslan said.

The study also found that people who had access to strong social support networks or who were able to maintain routine and structure fared better cognitively. However, for many, lockdowns and social distancing disrupted these protective factors.

Recovery Is Possible

Despite the sobering

results, researchers were quick to note that these changes are not necessarily permanent. When followup tests were conducted in 2022 and 2023, some cognitive performance had improved, especially in people who had reengaged with work, social activities, and learning.

Professor Adam Hampshire, another lead researcher, said, “Our brains are plastic – they adapt and can recover. What we’ve seen is not irreversible decline but rather a temporary setback.”

Still, the study serves as

a warning of the long-term efects that global crises can have on cognitive health, even in people who seem outwardly unafected.

Broader Implications for Mental Health

This research highlights how mental and social health can have a direct impact on the physical structure and function of the brain. It underscores the importance of addressing mental wellbeing not just during emergencies, but in

everyday public health planning.

The study also contributes to a growing body of evidence linking loneliness and psychological stress to accelerated cognitive decline and even dementia risk later in life.

In Australia, mental health services saw a surge in demand during and after lockdowns. As researchers and governments assess the full impact of the pandemic, this study adds weight to calls for greater investment in mental health and preventative brain health strategies.

Takeaways for the Public

The message is clear: protecting brain health goes beyond avoiding disease. It means staying connected, mentally active, and emotionally supported – especially during times of widespread disruption. As society continues to recover from the upheaval of the past few years, this research is a timely reminder that our brains need social stimulation and psychological safety just as much as they need physical care.

13 reasons why exercise will save your life!

Many of us look at exercise as another chore that we must do. If we remember many of us are not as physically active as our past generations. This means we tend to have problems keeping active for our health. Let us remind ourselves about why regular exercise has proven

benefts : An increased fghting beneft against mental illness, especially depression. This is because of improved feelings of confdence and wellbeing, and self-worth. Keeps your heart and cardiovascular system healthy by improving

blood fow and keeping the blood vessels clear and clean.

It will lower your cholesterol levels by using some of those fatty acids that build up as an energy source. It prevents and lowers the risk of diabetes because excess sugar (glucose as energy for movement). Making the body become more sensitive to Insulin to store sugars and to glucagon which breaks down sugar stores as energy.

The development of brain cells, cognitive behaviour, and improved memory and decisionmaking ability because of regular oxygenated blood fow to the brain.

A higher libido and satisfaction with our sexual activities because of increased strength, stamina, and sensitivity to hormones that help keep these functioning.

Exercise has the beneft of lowering blood pressure both acutely

and chronically long and short term by again keeping arteries and veins free of plaque and the cardiovascular system working efciently and strong through processes like angiogenesis.

Having a regular exercise routine will reduce the possibility of falling victim to a stroke during your life by again keeping the cardiovascular system working well, reducing cholesterol levels and keeping other risk factors to a minimum.

A twenty year follow up study found that people who exercise regularly live longer that people who were sedentary

because of a reduction in health risks associated with diseases.

Exercise keeps your metabolism high, which means you burn of more calories which in turn will help with weight control and loss.

Exercise (particularly resistance or impact forms) will keep, and even improve the bone density we have by placing pressures on the bone masses and forcing the body to lay down elements to make them stronger.

People will have better sleep patterns when they exercise regularly.

In women and men you will have a greater rate of survival post cancer if you exercise rather than people who stay sedentary.

With so many valuable life saving events – why do not we exercise regularly to reap the benefts?Get more out of your life with regular exercise!

This research highlights how mental and social health can have a direct impact on the physical structure and function of the brain.

Relaxed US Beef Rules YouRURAL NEWS

Cows & Calves Hit $1900 at Beaudesert Store Sale

Bartholomew & Co reported a frm to slightly dearer market across all categories at the Beaudesert Store Sale on Saturday. An exceptional line-up of PTIC cows and cow/calf units drew strong buyer interest, with restocker cattle in high demand.

Top result of the day was achieved

Casino

CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

by Clive Moran, who sold Charolaiscross cows and calves for $1900. PTIC

Droughtmaster cows from Glenapp Cattle Co, Running Creek, sold to $1850, while their Brahman cows reached $1650. Dean Beasley, Jacobs Well, sold Droughtmaster cows and calves for $1300.

Restocker steers performed well, with highlights including:

lDroughtmaster steers (18 months) –

$1530 (Gaylene Oppermann, Cedar Creek)

l Droughtmaster steers (15 months) –

NRLX Prime Cattle Sale Report – 23 July 2025 and 26 July 2025

The Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange (NRLX) hosted its Prime Cattle sale on Wednesday, 23 July 2025, with a total yarding of 827 head. Strong buyer demand was noted across most stock categories, with standout results particularly in the steer and heifer pens. Market sentiment remained buoyant, and the total gross sale value reached an impressive $787,544.94, refecting continued strength in regional cattle prices.

Category Performance Breakdown STEERS

l Total Yarded: 119 head across 285 lots

l Average Price: 381.1c/kg

l Top Price: 478.2c/kg

l Weight Sold: 66,235 kg

l Total Value: $252,447.73

l Price Range: $297.00 to $1,950.00/head Steers achieved the highest average cents per kilogram (c/kg) of the sale, with top lots nearing the $2,000 mark. Demand remained strong from feeders and processors alike, particularly for heavier lines.

HEIFERS

l Total Yarded: 114 head across 283 lots

l Average Price: 299.6c/kg

l Top Price: 384.2c/kg

l Weight Sold: 67,305 kg

l Total Value: $201,631.53

l Price Range: $152.19 to $1,702.29/head Heifers also performed robustly, with averages close to 300c/kg and heavy lots surpassing $1,700/head. Buyers showed consistent interest in well-fnished pens and restocker types.

COWS

$1500 (Shannon White, Veresdale)

lDroughtmaster x steers (14 months) –

$1420 (Ian & Paola Terry, Veresdale)

lWeaner steers sold to $1180 (Allan Mills, Beechmont)

lSanta Hereford x weaners – $1150 (Mt Maroon Grazing, Maroon)

lAngus weaners – $1120 (Glenapp Cattle Co)

lCharolais x and Brangus weaners ranged from $920 to $790

Heifers also held frm, with standout results including:

l Total Yarded: 109 head across 205 lots

l Average Price: 256.9c/kg

l Top Price: 322.2c/kg

l Weight Sold: 96,750 kg

l Total Value: $248,585.91

l Price Range: $275.00 to $2,171.40/head

Heavy cows met keen processor demand, pushing prices beyond 320c/kg for top-quality types. The average price demonstrated solid returns, particularly for well-muscled lines.

BULLS

l Total Yarded: 29 head across 36 lots

l Average Price: 277.5c/kg

l Top Price: 318.2c/kg

l Weight Sold: 24,040 kg

l Total Value: $66,704.56

l Price Range: $849.33 to $3,446.58/head

Bulls reached standout prices, with the highest gross value per head in the sale. Exceptional individuals topped over $3,400, drawing signifcant competition from both processors and live export buyers.

BULLOCKS

l Total Yarded: 6 head across 6 lots

l Average Price: 294.3c/kg

l Top Price: 374.2c/kg

l Weight Sold: 3,160 kg

l Total Value: $9,299.88

l Price Range: $1,141.72 to $2,160.00/head

A small yarding of bullocks was presented, yet achieved competitive prices, especially for heavy types well-suited to export markets.

VEALER BULLS

l Total Yarded: 8 head across 12 lots

l Average Price: 340.7c/kg

lSanta weaner heifers – $960 (Jim & Mick Binstead, Rathdowney)

lSpeckle Park heifers (12 months) –$820 (Wayne Gehrke, Grandchester)

lDroughtmaster and crossbred heifers (12 months) – $790–$820

lLimousin x weaners – $710 (Yvonne & Tracy Clark, Biddaddaba) With plenty of restockers going home empty-handed, competition remains ferce for quality lines.

Next Beaudesert Store Sale: Saturday, 2 August at 9:30am.

l Top Price: 382.2c/kg

l Weight Sold: 2,605 kg

l Total Value: $8,875.33

l Price Range: $358.68 to $1,089.27/head

Vealer bulls saw healthy pricing, with lighter types attracting restocker demand and heavier weights preferred by local butchers.

Overall Sale Summary

l Total Head Yarded: 385

l Total Lots Ofered: 827

l Total Kilograms Sold: 260,095 kg

l Average Price (All Types): 302.8c/kg

l Top Price Overall: 478.2c/kg

l Sale Gross: $787,544.94

This sale highlighted steady to stronger trends across all stock categories, with several standout results indicating continued demand from both domestic and export buyers. The NRLX continues to be a key regional market delivering strong results for vendors across the Northern Rivers.

Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange – Bidder Catle Sale Summary (26 July 2025)

A total of 117 head were sold at the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange on 26 July, reaching a combined sale value of $852,000. Prices ranged from $3,000 to $19,000 per head, with an overall average of $7,282.05

Bulls made up the majority of the yarding with 101 head sold, averaging $7,737.62 and topping the sale at $19,000 Heifers were in smaller numbers, with 16 head averaging $4,406.25 and selling between $3,000 and $6,000

The sale saw solid demand across all categories, refecting strong buyer confdence leading into the next selling period.

An Outstanding Clarence Valley Grazing & Lifestyle Property

Purgatory Creek Road, Lilydale

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.

Mitch Donovan: 0428 470 132

.com.au mitch@donovanlivestock .com.au

Statement on US Beef Import Changes

Welcomed by Farmers' Federation

NFF President David Jochinke said the report and decision were the result of a longstanding process that put Australia’s biosecurity first.

Ian Rogers

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has acknowledged the Australian Government’s decision to lift restrictions on imports of beef processed in the United States but sourced from cattle raised in Mexico or Canada.

Under previous arrangements, US beef could only enter Australia if it came from cattle born, raised, and processed within the United States. The new move follows a science-

based assessment by the Australian Government into biosecurity risks associated with the revised US export arrangement.

NFF President David Jochinke said the report and decision were the result of a long-standing process that put Australia’s

biosecurity frst.

“We’ve always said any change to beef imports must undergo the usual rigorous, science-based process to protect our borders,” Mr Jochinke said. “We’re pleased the Government has confrmed that standard

Dead Tired & The Cost of

has been upheld.”

The NFF also welcomed assurances that the review was carried out independently of any trade or tarif negotiations.

“Australia’s relationship with the US is strong and grounded in trust,” Mr Jochinke said. “That trust

depends on fair, reciprocal trade and recognition of each other’s regulatory standards.”

Mr Jochinke reafrmed the NFF’s commitment to free and fair trade practices that protect Australia’s world-class agricultural reputation.

Pushing Through:

Farmsafe Australia Calls for Cultural Reset

Fatigue is silently endangering lives on Australian farms—and it’s time to break the cycle.

As National Farm Safety Week continues, Farmsafe Australia is putting fatigue front and centre in its “Second Chances – Who Knows How Many You’ll Get?” campaign, urging the agricultural sector to stop glorifying exhaustion and start treating fatigue

as the serious safety risk it truly is.

Farmsafe Chair Felicity Richards says the culture of pushing through long hours is deeply embedded in agriculture.

“We’ve normalised the 18-hour day,” she said.

“We dismiss brain fog, slips, and forgetfulness as part of the job. But when you’re tired, your decisions sufer—and that

can cost lives.”

The numbers tell a sobering story. In 2023, Australia recorded 32 onfarm deaths—the lowest on record. Yet in 2024, the toll spiked to 72 fatalities, the highest in more than 20 years. Meanwhile, serious injuries remain persistently high.

While fatigue doesn’t always appear in ofcial incident reports, Richards

www.bbtimbersballina.com.au

says it’s often a hidden factor.

“Every farmer has a story—nearly rolling a ute, forgetting a gate, misjudging a step—all after days without rest,” she said. “We’ve trained ourselves to ignore fatigue, but it’s a risk we can no longer aford to dismiss.”

The campaign promotes a shift in mindset: seeing rest not as weakness, but

as a smart, protective decision. Richards says, “Real strength is pausing, calling in help, or waiting until daylight. That’s leadership.”

Key messages from the campaign include: Plan safety into the job—don’t skip checks or push past red fags.

Make time for rest— during peak seasons, build in backup and bufer days.

Encourage honest check-

ins—listen when someone says they’re tired.

Farmsafe is calling on managers, workers, and families alike to start open conversations about fatigue and share nearmiss lessons so others can avoid the same risks.

“Don’t wait for a tragedy to change how you work,” Richards says.

“Listen when someone’s tired. Safety starts with stopping.”

NFF President David Jochinke

Farmsafe Chair Felicity Richards says the culture of pushing through long hours is deeply embedded in agriculture.

Have Your Say on the Next Phase of the On Farm Connectivity Program

The Australian Government is inviting community and industry feedback to help shape the future of the On Farm Connectivity Program, with a focus on improving outcomes for primary producers in Round 3, set to open later this year.

Following the success of the frst two rounds—which delivered over $30 million in rebates and helped thousands of farmers invest in connected technologies— the Department of Infrastructure, Transport,

Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts has launched a public consultation process to refne the program’s delivery and scope.

The On Farm Connectivity Program supports primary producers in expanding on-farm digital infrastructure, including connected machinery, smart sensors, and other agricultural technologies. These innovations are helping farmers improve productivity, sustainability, and decision-making by

flling critical connectivity gaps in regional and rural areas.

Responding to Unprecedented Demand Round 2 of the Program saw overwhelming demand, highlighting the pressing need for on-farm connectivity solutions. In response, the Government is reviewing options to ensure Round 3 is better tailored to meet producers’ needs.

Stakeholders are encouraged to provide feedback on several proposed changes, including:

Refning the list of

eligible equipment for rebates to better target highimpact technologies.

Streamlining application processes, potentially by providing rebates directly to primary producers rather than through third parties.

Ensuring equity in access and addressing regional disparities in connectivity support.

This round of consultation follows ongoing collaboration with key stakeholders such as state and Commonwealth agencies, the National Farmers’ Federation,

and other industry representatives. It also incorporates feedback collected after the rollout of the frst two rounds.

$53 Million Commitment to Regional Connectivity

The Government has committed $53 million across three rounds of the On Farm Connectivity Program between 2023–24 and 2025–26.

This initiative forms a key part of the broader Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia, which aims to bridge the digital divide

and support innovation in agriculture.

The consultation process is open now, and submissions must be made by Tuesday 26 August 2025

To view the proposed changes and have your say, visit the ofcial On Farm Connectivity Program Round 3 consultation page on the Department of Infrastructure website. Your feedback will help ensure the next phase of this vital program continues to deliver real value to Australia’s primary producers.

Sex expression research looks to boost hempseed yields and supercharge production

A new Southern Cross University research project is aiming to increase the seed yields of hemp plants by up to ffty per cent, in what could be a game-changer for the industry’s productivity and proftability.

The project, looking at naturally occurring variations in the sex determination of hemp plants, has the backing of the Australian Research Council through a $561,251 Linkage grant, with Northern Rivers-based Kavasil Pty Ltd as the industry partner.

Researchers hope it will ofer a signifcant and sustainable boost to the industry with better seed yields and less chemical intervention.

‘Swinging both ways – the genetic control of sex expression in hemp LP240200616’ will look at characterising the sexdetermining genetic factors in low-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) Cannabis genetics,

with the aim of modifying male plants so they produce seed as well as pollen.

Hemp is an emerging high-value crop in Australia that produces high-quality edible oils and plant-based protein from seeds.

Typically, hemp has separate male and female plants. While male plants are important for pollination, they don’t produce seed, causing low and variable yields.

Low-THC Cannabis is

also the natural source of the cannabinoid known as cannabidiol or CBD.

While agrochemicals, such as the plant growth regulator Ethephon can be used to induce female fowers on male plants, Southern Cross University researchers on Kavasil Pty Ltd projects have identifed a genetic solution to favourably alter sex expression in plants.

Lead investigator

Professor Tobias

Kretzschmar said he hopes that this technology could be developed to increase hempseed yields by up to ffty per cent.

“If we can boost seed production, that in turn will boost proftability for farmers and ultimately lower the cost of hempseed products for consumers,” he said.

Industry partner Kavasil Pty Ltd focuses on highvalue hempseed as a functional food. Founder

and Chief Executive Andrew Kavasilas said he was pleased to see the endorsement of hempseed research through the latest grant.

“Increasing yields and predictability will help further develop our capacity to supply the domestic markets and supply chain with high-quality Australian-grown hempseed and related products.

“It’s good to see recognition of this work as a crucial research endeavour that will help the broader Cannabis industries focused on superior nutritional value, industrial and medical uses. The benefts to farmers and consumers are clear,” he said.

The latest Linkage grant builds on a successful 2022 Linkage bid for a $530,543 grant to advance the University’s work on hempseed development with Mr Kavasilas, supporting research into hemp’s nutritional and functional properties.

The University has decades of established

expertise in hemp and medicinal cannabis science and is proud to be the research lead on the Australian Industrial Hemp Program of Research, a fve-year initiative funded by AgriFutures Australia to assist with the growth of the industry.

Key research themes of the Australian Industrial Hemp Program of Research include enhancing hemp germplasm, optimizing agronomic techniques, exploring value adding of hemp seed products, and assessing sustainability criteria of hemp cultivation. The goal is to support the growth of the Australian hemp industry guided by the Australian Industrial Hemp Strategic Research, Development and Extension Plan (2022–2027) and involves collaboration with various partners, including government departments, other universities, and private enterprises.

Collectively, these eforts aim to position hemp as a viable and environmentally benefcial crop in Australia.

Mr Kavasilas and Prof Kretzschmar Hempseed research credit Southern Cross University

Ian Rogers

Ian Rogers

Respect the Routine, Challenge the Habit: Tackling Farm Safety Complacency

Ian Rogers

Complacency a Hidden Danger in Farm Life

As National Farm Safety Week continues, Farmsafe Australia is urging farmers to rethink one of the most dangerous habits in the industry—complacency in routine tasks. The campaign, aptly titled Respect the Routine. Challenge the Habit., draws attention to how everyday familiarity can dull awareness and increase risk, particularly in agriculture where the stakes are often high.

The central message is clear: just because a job is routine doesn’t mean it’s risk-free.

Complacency Often Hides in Plain Sight

Farmsafe Chair Felicity Richards explains that complacency is insidious because it often disguises itself as experience.

“It’s about being too comfortable. Too familiar. Too confdent that things will go as they always have,” she says. “That’s when the cracks start to show.”

This year’s Safer Farms Report revealed a worrying trend—serious injuries and fatalities on Australian farms remain high, with 72 lives lost in 2024 alone, more than double the previous year. Many of these tragedies occurred during ordinary tasks like moving machinery, operating

tractors, or handling livestock.

“These aren’t rare, freak accidents,” Richards warns. “They’re the kind of jobs farmers do every day. And that’s exactly why they’re dangerous when done without full attention.”

The Culture of SelfReliance Needs a Safety Reset

One of the campaign’s main themes is breaking the culture of “she’ll be right”, a mindset deeply ingrained in many rural communities. While independence and hard work are rightly valued

in agriculture, they can sometimes overshadow safety.

“For those who’ve lived and worked on the land all their lives, it can feel like you’ve seen it all,” says Richards. “But that’s when you’re most at risk of becoming blind to the dangers right in front of you.”

Fatigue, rushing, and multitasking are major contributors to complacency. So too is the belief that instinct and experience are sufcient replacements for structured training—especially when younger generations are learning “how it’s always been done” without

reviewing whether those methods are still safe.

A Practical Push for Safer Routines

The Second Chances campaign doesn’t ask farmers to abandon routines. Instead, it encourages them to refect and make small, conscious changes that could prevent major accidents. Some of the suggested steps include:

Buddy reviews – Swap tasks occasionally or check each other’s work to bring fresh eyes to familiar jobs. Checklists every time – Pre-start checks, safety gear, and equipment inspections should never

be skipped, no matter how routine the task.

Ask: “What’s diferent today?” – Whether it’s the weather, machinery, or your energy levels, identifying changes keeps routines from becoming blind habits.

“Even something as simple as changing who opens a gate or who checks the tractor oil can give you a new perspective,” says Richards.

Talking About Near Misses Can Save Lives

Richards notes that complacency doesn’t

always stem from confdence. Sometimes it’s the result of being overwhelmed or time-poor. That’s why the campaign places such importance on communication— especially about close calls.

“When we don’t talk about near misses, we don’t learn from them,” she says. “If something made your heart skip, it’s worth unpacking.”

By encouraging families and farm teams to talk openly and without blame, Farmsafe hopes to normalise refection and shift the culture toward one where safety is built into every routine—not just the dangerous ones.

Choosing Awareness Over Assumption

Ultimately, the campaign asks the agricultural community to choose awareness over assumption. To respect the routine by doing it with intention, and to challenge the habit by never assuming familiarity means safety.

“You can’t control everything on a farm,” Richards says. “But you can control how you show up to every task. That simple choice can be the diference between staying safe and becoming a statistic.”

Farmers, workers, and rural families are being encouraged to take small steps, start important conversations, and create a culture where refection isn’t rare—it’s routine.

Get Your Garden Spring-Ready:

August Lawn and Fruit Tree Tips for the Northern Rivers

Jef Gibbs

With the last whispers of winter fading and August approaching, it’s the perfect time for Northern Rivers gardeners to turn their attention to lawn recovery and fruit tree maintenance. The combination of warming days and longer daylight hours signals the start of early spring growth. A little care now will set your garden up beautifully for the season ahead.

Lawn Care in August

After the damp, cool conditions of winter, many lawns across the region are looking patchy, pale or compacted. Now is the time to intervene before growth kicks into gear.

Start by feeding your lawn. Use a slow-release fertiliser suited to your grass type—Bufalo, Kikuyu, and Couch are all popular in the Northern Rivers. A product with a good nitrogen component will help green up tired patches. Organic fertilisers, such as pelletised chicken manure or seaweed concentrate, are also excellent for improving soil structure.

Next, consider aerating. Northern Rivers soils can become compacted after months of rain and minimal mowing. Use a garden fork to spike holes across your lawn or hire a core aerator for larger spaces. This allows water, oxygen and nutrients to penetrate deep into the root zone, encouraging stronger growth.

and prevent fungal disease. Spot-treat any weeds while they’re still actively growing. A healthy lawn is your best defence against further weed invasion.

Time to Prune

Your Fruit Trees

August is the ideal time to prune deciduous fruit trees before they burst into blossom. Apples, pears, peaches, nectarines and plums beneft from a good winter tidy-up. Pruning helps shape the tree, improves air circulation, and encourages better fruit production.

Start by removing dead, damaged or inward-growing branches. Aim to open the canopy up to sunlight, which reduces disease and helps fruit ripen evenly.

Make sure your tools are clean and sharp to prevent damaging the tree or spreading pathogens. If you’re unsure, a quick online guide or visit to your local nursery can provide tree-specifc advice.

If there’s a build-up of thatch—dead grass that forms a mat over the soil surface—rake it out to promote airfow

Mowing should begin again in moderation. Set your mower to a higher cutting height and take just the tips of, helping your lawn grow dense and resilient.

Citrus trees don’t need heavy pruning in winter, but it’s a good time to trim lightly, remove suckers, and apply a citrus fertiliser to support fowering. With a little efort now, your garden will reward you with lush lawns and productive trees through the seasons ahead.

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COMMUNITY NOTICES

ALSTONVILLE

CRAWFORD

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.

is always plenty of support & advice on any issue!

BALLINA

Our Most Precious Treasure Community Kids!

Children are the most precious treasure a community can possess, for in them are the promise and guarantee of the future,Through our collective attention and support, we ensure a brighter future for them.Parents and community members, your involvement is vital.Years of experience, join our Lennox Head Kids group age 5 to 12 to learn about community values through project, stories and Bahá’í inspired quotes promoting Unity, harmony, and kindness.Location: CWA hall ( Lennox Head cultural centre) 8 August 2025 (every Friday) to 7 November 2025 Time: 16:30 -17:30

Contact: Parvin Mansouri , 0481390767 Fee $5

Australian Independent Retirees

The next meeting of the Australian Independent Retirees will be held as usual on the first Friday of the month - being 1 August, 2025. This meeting will be held at the Ballina RSL Club, 1 Grant Street, Ballina at 10.00am. Meeting and greeting members and friends will be held from 9.30am, so come along and warm to the moment. The guest speaker will be Brad Fisher, a former Qantas pilot, who will fill us in on many interesting facts to do with the flying world. Morning tea will be available prior to the speaker’s presentation, and a $5.00 meeting fee will be charged to help defray these costs.

This gathering is open to all retirees who are welcome to join in with our Friendship and Fellowship and you never know, many a friendship has returned from as far back as schooldays, you never know who you will find at our meetings. This country is rather enterprising and after quite a number of years traveling around and settling down, it is never surprising to find your neighbour knows you from days gone by. Come and join us and maybe find a new friend! Any enquiries Jill Huxley on 6686 8958.”

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.

BALLINA LADIES PROBUS CLUB

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 andranch 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

Probus Clubs o er a wonderful range of activities for retirees, including enjoyable trips, social outings, and monthly gatherings. Club members meet regularly to connect with like-minded friends and hear from interesting guest speakers. The Ballina Ladies Probus Club meets on the first Wednesday of each month at 10:00 am at the Ballina RSL Club. We currently have vacancies and warmly welcome new members and visitors to join us for our meetings, outings, and events – all centred around fun, fellowship, and friendship. We’re especially excited about our upcoming trip on 20th August to the Hare Krishna Farm and Vedic Yoga Sanctuary, nestled in the picturesque foothills of Mount Warning. The day will include a guided farm tour, a temple visit, a delicious lunch, and insights into the Vedic way of life. If you’d like to learn more about our club or upcoming events, please contact our President, Jeanette, on 0407 417 470.

Ballina Photography Club meets on the first Thursday of the month at Northlakes Community Centre, 1 Mulloway Place, Ballina from 6pm to 9pm.We are currently looking for new members and visitors are always welcome. We are a group of enthusiastic photographers who live in and around Ballina. Members share a common interest in photography and have monthly outings to take photos and share images at meetings. Please contact our President Lyn on 0412 758 697

Ballina Meals on Wheels

Knitting and Crochet for Charity Group run by Ballina Meals on Wheels. Group held Monday mornings in Ballina and open to people who are 65years and older. $5 includes morning tea. Call Kristen on Ph: 0419 679719 for more information.

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A NEW HOBBY??? COME AND JOIN THE HEADLINERS CHORUS

We are an allfemale 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 7pm - Guests are always welcome. Our members support the education of disadvantaged children in Australia by fundraising activities and social events in our local community for The Smith Family - by sponsoring 5 Learning for Life students. Ph: Julie Stephan 0434988770.

BALLINA FREE COMMUNITY HOT BRUNCH

Ballina Free Community Hot Brunch, First Saturday of each month. Everyone is invited to come and enjoy a hot brunch of sausages, rissoles bacon & eggs, cereal, tea and co ee. Or just come for a chat. Frozen take away meals available. Held at the Ballina Presbyterian Hall Corner of Cherry & Crane St Ballina 10AM TO 12PM Carol: 0438812235

BALLINA LIGHTHOUSE RSL DAY CLUB

A Day Club for elderly and isolated people in our community, held every Thursday at the Richmond Room Ballina. Enjoy morning tea and a mental stimulation exercise like Tai Chi, followed by lunch and afternoon musical entertainment. Every Thursday 10am to 2pm cost $10 Richmond Room, Regatta Avenue Ballina RSVP Lorraine Fox 66874350, 0439301249

BALLINA SENIOR CITIZENS BRIDGE CLUB Social Bridge Play in Seniors Hall. Swift Street Ballina on Wednesday & Saturdays @ 12.05 pm Enquiries Phone: 0493425002 for details.

BALLINA TOY LIBRARY

Welcomes families from Ballina Shire. 9 Regatta Avenue, Ballina. Open Tuesdays 1pm - 3pm, and Saturdays 10am - 1pm. Ph. 0411719074.

IN FOCUS TOASTMASTERS CLUB

How about trying something di erent? If you would like to improve your communication and leadership skills or simply make new friends and have fun, you are warmly invited to attend the In Focus Toastmasters Club. We meet the 3rd Wednesday evening of each month. You may attend either from the comfort of your own home via zoom or join us in person at the Cherry Street Sports Club, Ballina.

BRUNSWICK HEADS

BRUNSWICK VALLEY VIEW CLUB

Brunswick Valley VIEW Club’s monthly luncheons are held at Brunswick Heads Bowling Club on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 10.30am for 11am.Apologies to Wenda on 0449 563 580 no later than the Monday before. VIEW stands for Voice, Interests and Education of Women. The club supports seven disadvantaged students in The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program. 1800 805 366

CASINO

Casino and District Family History Group,

ATTENTION Members and Non-Members

You are Invited to Attend UPCOMING GUEST SPEAKER’ - Come along and hear SHANE HAYES talk about AGED CARE and how to navigate what is available to those of us who are getting older. WHERE & WHEN - Casino & District Family History Group at School of Arts building, 98 Walker St, Casino at 11 am on Wednesday 13 August.

CWA Casino Day

Our next meeting is at the Casino Community Centre 9.00am Thursday 11st 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.

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

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

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

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 @ 1011am. 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 12am1.30pm at the Salvation Army Hall, 9193 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. AlAnon has but one purpose: to help families of alcoholics. We do this by practicing the Twelve Steps, by welcoming and giving comfort to families of alcoholics and by giving understanding and encouragement to the alcoholic. For further information or to talk to a member in confidence call 1300 252 666

Grafton CWA Centenary in 2026

Grafton CWA will be celebrating its centenary in 2026. We have started putting together a centenary cookbook with some of our favourite recipes and would love to include some recipes from former members and their families- perhaps family recipes that have been passed down for a few generations, with a piece of information or photo. If you have any recipes that you think are suitable, please could you contact Lesley McFarlane ph. 66445442 or Sharron Davison ph 0409363248. Please make sure that they are original recipes. We will also need help from members of the community closer to the time, in order to be able to display information and photos of our 100 years. We would like to have a large display highlighting the contribution made by Grafton CWA branch to the local community, and there is plenty of time to start looking for old photos, old newspaper articles, Grafton CWA memorabilia or anything at all that could be of interestwe will put out a request for them nearer the date when we should be back in our CWA Rooms and have access to storage. Meetings of Grafton CWA are held on the 2nd Friday of each month at GDSC, starting with morning tea at 9.30am and meeting at 10am. Handicraft mornings are held on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month9.30am, 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

Our Most Precious Treasure Community Kids

Children are the most precious treasure a community can possess, for in them are the promise and guarantee of the future, through our collective attention and support, we ensure a brighter future for them. Parents and community members, your involvement is vital. Years of experience, join our Lennox Head Kids group age 5 to 12 to learn about community values through project, stories and Bahá’í inspired quotes promoting Unity, harmony, and kindness. Location: CWA hall (Lennox Head cultural centre) 8 August 2025 (every Friday) to 7 November 2025 Time: 16:30 -17:30

Contact: Parvin Mansouri , 0481390767 Fee $5

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

AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS

Al-Anon o ers help and hope for family and friends of alcoholics. If someone in your family has a drinking problem, you can see what it’s doing to them. But can you see what it’s doing to YOU? For information and help call 1300 ALANON (1300 252 666).

Al-Anon Family Groups meet regularly across Australia MONDAY 11:00am - 12.30 pm ILUKA - CWA Hall (behind the Iluka Museum), 2 Charles St. TUESDAY 12.001.30 pm GRAFTON - Hall 2, Salvation Army, 91-93 Oliver St. 1:00 - 2.30 pm LISMORE “The Studio”, adjacent to 14 Pleasant St, Goonellabah & ZOOM ID 252 666 0000 (no password) (enter at rear of car park, cnr Pleasant & Fischer Sts) WEDNESDAY 6.30 - 8:00 pm BALLINA – Anglican Church, 24 Burnet St & ZOOM ID 252 666 0000 (no password) THURSDAY 5:00 - 6:00 pm (with Alateen) TWEED HEADS Anglican Church, 13 Powell St or by phone: 4022 9113, code 5771881# FRIDAY The Bangalow meeting meets in person on the FIRST and THIRD FRIDAY of the month at 1.00 - 2.30 pm at 17 Station St, Bangalow, (Bangalow Uniting Church, parking next to the Church. SUNDAY 4:00 pm CHINDERAH Seventh Day Adventist Church, 83 Phillip St.

LISMORE CWA

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 freeplay 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 wellbeing 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 difference 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 MEDITATIONLismore 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

NORTHERN RIVERS EVENING PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROU P

The next meeting of the Northern Rivers Evening Prostate Cancer Support Group is to be held on Wednesday August 6th - 7pm until 9 pm at the LISMORE WORKERS MAIN CLUB – KEEN STREET, LISMORE Men previously and newly diagnosed with prostate cancer are urged to join with the group to experience the personal cancer stories told which give a great opportunity for all to share, learn and benefit from each other - Partners and Carers are also most welcome to attend as family are very much involved with the process and treatment of those with this diagnosis GUEST SPEAKER – Steve Ho man, Acting Inspector of Richmond Police District, on the topic of Elder Abuse and Senior Safety -Enquiries phone Bob Johnson (02) 6622 5792 -

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

Northern Rivers District:

Slight chance of a shower, most likely in the morning. Mostly sunny day. Light winds becoming northwesterly 15 to 25 km/h during the morning then tending westerly during the day. Thursday. Partly cloudy. Slight chance of a shower along the coastal fringe. Light winds.

Northern Tablelands District:

Partly cloudy. High chance of showers on and west of the ranges, slight chance elsewhere. Winds northwesterly 15 to 25 km/h turning westerly 25 to 35 km/h during the morning. Thursday. Cloudy. Slight chance of a shower. Areas of morning frost on and west of the ranges. Winds westerly 15 to 25 km/h turning southwesterly during the morning.

New South Wales:

Scattered showers across the east, western slopes and central plains, isolated inland then clearing the inland during the evening. Showers falling as snow above 1000 metres across the Alps, light snow above 1100 metres for the Central and Southern Tablelands, with a dusting above 1300 metres for the northern ranges. Daytime temperatures below average. South to southwesterly winds in the south, northwesterly winds in the north.

Thursday. Isolated showers across much of the state, scattered at times along the central coastal fringe. Showers possibly falling as snow above 1000 metres across the Alps, and southern and central ranges, with a dusting of snow above 1200 metres for the northern ranges. Daytime temperatures below average. South to southwesterly winds, fresh at times along the coastal fringe.

Byron Coast:

Winds: Northwesterly 15 to 20 knots turning west to southwesterly 20 to 25 knots during the afternoon. Seas: 1 to 1.5 metres, increasing to 1 to 2 metres during the afternoon. Swell: Southerly below 1 metre. Weather: Mostly sunny. 50% chance of showers. Coffs Coast: Winds: Northwesterly 15 to 20 knots turning west to southwesterly 20 to 25 knots during the afternoon. Seas: 1 to 1.5 metres, increasing to 1 to 2 metres during the afternoon. Swell: Southerly below 1 metre. Weather: Mostly sunny. 50% chance of showers. Gold Coast Waters: Winds: Northwesterly 15 to 20 knots tending westerly during the evening. Seas: Below 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore. Swell: Easterly below 1 metre. Weather: Partly cloudy. 50% chance of showers.

Sprint champion Lachlan Kennedy smashes stereotypes with sub-10-second run

In an awe-inspiring moment for Australian sport and the diabetes community, 21-yearold Brisbane sprinter Lachlan Kennedy is the second Australian in history to run 100 metres in under 10 seconds - all while managing the demands of type 1 diabetes.

Lachie’s extraordinary performance in Nairobi on May 31 not only made global headlines but also sends a powerful message this National Diabetes Week: people with diabetes can do anything.

Diagnosed at age 15, Lachie lives with type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune condition that requires constant monitoring and management.

Preparing for a six-week international racing tour across Africa, Europe and the US, he carried not just his competition gear, but also a full suite of life-saving diabetes technology including blood test strips, insulin pump supplies, back up insulin pens, a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) and sensors, as well as insulin and treatments for low blood glucose levels.

And when things didn’t go to plan, Lachlan did what he always does: kept his cool and did the best he could with what he had.

Two days before the prestigious Prefontaine Classic in Eugene, Oregon, on July 5, Lachlan’s last blood glucose sensor stopped working. He reverted to old-school fnger prick testing, while nursing a hairline stress fracture to his back,

competing against the fastest sprinters in the world. His determination underlines what thousands of Australians living with diabetes face every day: the unrelenting, often invisible work it takes to stay well.

“I don’t want to make a big deal out of it. My continuous glucose monitor and my insulin pump help me to have healthy glucose levels, and there are rarely any

WEEKLY SPORTS RESULTS

Ballina Mahjong Results

– 25 July 2025

The latest Ballina Mahjong results saw Barbara Ellan take out the top spot, followed by Shirley Atkinson (2) and Margaret Bryant (3). Other placings included Kathy Pickles (4), Ramsay Roper (5), Susan Allan (6), Gail McDonagh (7), Pauline Bolte (8), Jan Small and Pauline Kearney (9), Lynda Lovett (11), Ronda Taylor (12), Jan Boardman (13), Lisa Wong (14), Vanessa Reynolds (15), Valda McLerie (16), Sally Lowry (17), Shirley Coleman (18), Linda Lloyd (19), Carol Meyer (20), Cindy Smith (21), Jan Henley (22) and Pam Farrell (23)

Mahjong is played every Friday at 12:15pm for a 12:30pm start at the Ballina Bridge Club, North Creek Road. New players are welcome. For enquiries, contact Shirley on 0423 384 647

= Cherry Street Croquet Club – Sports

Results with a Burst of Excitement!

What a sensational week it’s been at the Cherry Street Croquet Club, where the mallets were swinging, the balls

were rolling, and the competition was ferce! The crowd (yes, even if it was just fellow players) was on the edge of their seats as players went head-to-head, and the results didn’t disappoint. Association Croquet kicked of with a nailbiter! Bev Bill and G. Porter came through with a heart-stopping 14–13 victory over P. and T. Hume. What a start – one point in it!

Then came the actionpacked Ricochet Croquet matches, and oh boy, they were thrillers from start to fnish:

= P. Bolt and Brenton Bill set the tone early, holding of C. Edlund and Bev Bill 10–8.

= W. Gilmore and J. Doust lit up the scoreboard with a commanding 12–8 win over W. Peters and N. Barnes

= The singles clash was another close one as M. Russell edged out R. Allen and N. Watts 11–9

– pure determination on display!

= And what about P. Scott? He was unstoppable, delivering a thumping 17–4 victory over N. Poynting. Wow! The excitement just kept building:

= J. Hannigan and G.

Porter powered to a 16–9 win over G. Kerr and R. Poynting, only for Kerr and Scott to bounce back in a nail-biting 8–7 thriller.

= D. Scott came from behind to defeat J. Hannigan 16–13 – the energy on that lawn was electric!

= N. Watts clawed through a tough battle to take down J. Doust and N. Barnes 13–10.

= And when M. Field and B. Wellings faced of against P. Bolte and M. Russell, it was anyone’s game – they snatched it 13–13 on a countback!

= P. Scott then came out fring again, storming home with a dominant 20–7 win over B. Wellings and N. Barnes

= P. Bolte and G. Kerr held their nerve in a tense 12–11 win over J. Dorward and J. Hannigan – talk about drama!

= Finally, in the day’s closing showdown, W. Peters and J. Doust edged out N. Watts and L. Leuckel 16–15. The crowd went wild – what a fnish!

The club is buzzing as we now count down to the Annual General Meeting on 7 August at 12 noon and the alwayspopular Friendship Day

issues,” said Lachie.

“It was just frustrating and annoying that I was already dealing with an injury and I had this extra diabetes stuf to deal with too.

Whatever happens though, whatever race I’m competing in, I still have to manage my type 1 diabetes.”

Diabetes Australia Group CEO Justine Cain said Lachie’s story is a reminder of the strength and resilience within the diabetes community.

“Lachlan Kennedy is evidence that people with type 1 diabetes can do anything,” Ms Cain said.

“This National Diabetes Week we’re highlighting the importance of preventing diabetes complications. Afordable access to technology like insulin pumps and CGMs is a critical part of that.

on Sunday 24 August at 9am

If this week’s action is anything to go by, you won’t want to miss a single moment. Cherry Street Croquet Club –where the competition is ferce, the camaraderie is strong, and every match is a story worth telling!

= Coraki Veterans Golf – Results 24 August 2025 Despite wet conditions, 34 golfers competed on a heavy course. J. Celich took frst place, followed by K. Osborne (2nd) and J. Larkin (3rd)

= Chicken/Ball

Winners: D. Woolfe, T. Patch, A. Pilling, P. Brophy, G. Gibson, G. Flaherty

Nearest the Pins: 3rd & 12th holes – K. Osborne; 6th & 15th holes – D. Vagne

The next round will be held on Thursday 31 August, with an 18-hole single stableford, shotgun start at 8:30am, followed by the monthly barbecue. Arrive early for a cuppa and a chin wag. Until then, good golfng!

– Max

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

of the track.”

This National Diabetes Week, Diabetes Australia is continuing to call for expanded government subsidies for insulin pumps for people living with type 1 diabetes – particularly those under 21, health care card holders, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

The cost of all types of diabetes to the Australian health system is now estimated at over $9.1 billion each year, with many complications preventable through better support and early intervention.

“If we can prevent complications, we don’t just save lives. We reduce hospitalisations, we protect physical and mental health, and we ease pressure on our health system,” Ms Cain said.

“Lachlan isn’t just an athlete.He’s a champion and an inspiration for young Australians with type 1 diabetes.”

With more than 141,000 Australians living with type 1 diabetes, Lachlan’s journey matters. People living with diabetes make around 180 extra health decisions every day just to stay safe. For many, access to lifechanging technology is limited by cost.

Lachlan believes that living with type 1 diabetes has shaped him into the athlete and personhe is today.

“I think I live a healthier lifestyle than I would have done if I hadn’t developed type 1 diabetes,” Lachlan said.

“It forces you to be aware, to think about your body, to be disciplined. That defnitely helps on and

Lachie’s success on the world stage shows what’s possible with the right support. For young people newly diagnosed with diabetes, his message is simple:

“Don’t ever think diabetes will stop you. Put yourself in the best position you can, mentally and physically, and you can do anything.”

About Diabetes Australia

Diabetes Australia is the national organisation supporting all people living with or at risk of diabetes. We put people frst. We work in collaboration with member organisations, consumers, health professionals, statebased organisations, researchers and the community. For more information visit: www. diabetesaustralia.com. au

Ghosts out of their depth against Sea Horses

By Tim Howard

A rain-soaked Frank McGuren Field may have slowed the Woolgoolga Sea Horses, but it wasn’t enough to stop them piling on another heavy defeat against the struggling Grafton Ghosts on Saturday.

The competition leaders ran in seven tries to two to secure a 38–8 win, with wet conditions ofering the only real resistance to their pace and precision. Still, it marked a marginal improvement for the bottom-placed Ghosts, who were thrashed 54–16 by the same opposition just a week earlier in a deferred Round 5 game.

Woolgoolga were clinical, adapting to the conditions with smart kicking and quick shifts to the edges. Halfback Ethan Duncombe opened the scoring early with a solo efort from close range, then converted his own try. But Grafton hit back quickly, showing some enterprise of their own. Five-eighth Brandon Williams placed a perfectly weighted kick into the in-goal for winger Lockie McLaughlin to score. With the conversion missed, the Ghosts briefy trailed 6–4.

They then enjoyed a strong 15-minute period, forcing Woolgoolga into defensive mode after three penalties in a row brought the Ghosts within metres of the line. But a dropped ball in the play-the-ball spoiled their momentum—and from there, the Sea Horses reasserted control.

Switching from grinding forward play to expansive ball movement, Woolgoolga spread the ball wide to winger Sharne Perham, who strolled over in the corner for a 10–4 lead.

Another cleverly worked try just before halftime saw fullback Dane O’Hehir latch onto a perfectly timed grubber from skipper Jake Elphick to score under the posts and stretch the lead to 16–4.

After the break,

Woolgoolga blew the game open.

Cochrane’s kicking game came into full efect—frst grubbering into the ingoal where McLaughlin failed to clean up, allowing Michael Curnow to dive on the loose ball. Minutes later, he sent a pinpoint aerial kick to centre Stephen Prince, who soared above the pack to take the ball and score untouched.

When Duncombe sliced through paper-thin defence for his second try, the scoreline ballooned to 34–4.

The Ghosts could have collapsed, but to their credit, they held Woolgoolga to just one more try. Unfortunately, it came from a defensive lapse that left O’Hehir in the clear after he cleaned up a downfeld kick. With the Grafton chasers

overrunning him, the fullback sprinted 60 metres to score, shrugging of a last-ditch tackle attempt from Wirri Boland.

Despite the lopsided score, Grafton had the fnal say. In the last minute, from a scrum 20 metres out, Williams grubbered on the frst tackle.

Lock James Vickery pounced to score a consolation try, though the conversion missed. It was another heavy defeat for the Ghosts, but fans will take heart in the improved efort— particularly in defence and forward efort. Execution, however, continues to cost them dearly.

Fumbled opportunities, poor last-tackle options, and patchy goal-line defence allowed the Sea Horses to dictate terms for

most of the match.

If the Ghosts can build on their efort and sharpen their composure in key moments, they may yet pull themselves of the bottom of the ladder. They might fnd themselves competing for the wooden spoon with cross town rivals the South Grafton Rebels.

The Rebels endured their own nightmare at the hands of the high-fying Nambucca Roosters, going down 68–14 in a second consecutive blowout.

After a mercy rule was invoked last weekend, this time the full 80 minutes were played—and the result was just as brutal.

The Roosters ran in 12 tries to three, showing no signs of slowing down as they dismantled the Rebels’ defence from the outset.

The Rebels grabbed a

handful of tries, but it was little more than scoreboard decoration in a match the Roosters dominated from start to fnish.

With back-to-back 60-point foggings, South Grafton now fnds itself in the same troubled waters as their crosstown rivals and second from the bottom of the table. Both clubs face enormous challenges ahead—not just to restore pride, but to remain competitive as the season edges closer to the fnals.

Woolgoolga forward pound their way towards the Ghosts tryline. Two plays later half Ethan Duncombe opened the scoring for the visitors, forcing his way over they tryline.s

GHOSTS OUT OF THEIR DEPTH AGAINST SEA HORSES

Rugged Panthers

Punish Ghosts

“I believe the transport industry is what carries our nation”

Woolgoolga forward pound their way towards the Ghosts tryline. Two plays later half Ethan Duncombe opened the scoring