The Northern Rivers Times News Edition 265

Community petition presented to CSIRO

Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan has presented a community petition to the CSIRO, calling for urgent action to reduce future food heights in the Northern Rivers. The petition, signed by over 2,000 residents, was handed over during a CSIRO consultation session in Lismore.

“This petition calls for food levels to be reduced by 1–2 metres across the catchment,” Mr Hogan said. “We want to see modelling that explores ways to hold back, slow down or divert foodwaters. It’s about protecting homes, businesses and lives.”

Mr Hogan highlighted the broader impacts of food mitigation, including improved mental health, reduced insurance premiums, and long-term community resilience.

CSIRO is currently engaging with the public using a new hydrodynamic modelling tool to assess future scenarios across the Richmond River catchment. Mr Hogan urged locals to continue speaking up: “You can still sign the petition and make submissions. Every voice matters.”

Sign the petition at: kevinhogan.com.au/ food-petition

Make a submission to CSIRO: https:// www.nema.gov.au/our-work/resilience/ northern-rivers-resilience-initiative

‘Fantastic investment’ of $11.5 million for Northern Rivers communities

By Samantha Elley

Aaliyah Garang-Hall

is excited about a new athletics facility, promised last week by the Minns government, to be built at Lismore’s Southern Cross University campus.

The Year 8 discus thrower has been involved in her sport for the last two to three years and has had to travel to many sporting meets and training sessions.

“It’s really great because we always have to drive really far to get a good track and train,” she said.

“We have to drive or fy to Sydney as there’s lots of tracks, which is unfair for us as we have to train on grass.

“But now we are getting a track it’s really exciting.”

Athletes, cold storage and a CBD were the lucky recipients of an $11.5 million grant, thanks to the government’s Regional Development Trust Community Investment Program, announced last week.

Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty was on hand to provide the good news.

“(This is) a fantastic investment in facilities for this community,” she said on the grounds of Lismore’s Southern Cross University.

“An athletics facility right here on this university campus which will be terrifc for the community and for the broader region.

“It is facilities like this one across NSW that is

based on need and merit.”

Also announced was a $4 million cold storage facility for Casino with over 1,000 pallet capacity with chill and blast freeze capabilities that will provide a nationwide distribution service for local businesses, better market access and increased food security.

“It will create more jobs and be great for the local economy, particularly for Casino,” said Ms Moriarty.

Another announcement was a $1.5 million upgrade for Tweed Heads’ main street.

“It’s going to be great for tourism, great for the local community and a sign of confdence in our vision in this region and for Tweed Heads,” she said.

“(There will also be) some investment in Aboriginal job creation and packages to upskill Aboriginal people across the region.”

Together with the cocontributions from the six successful Northern Rivers applicants, these projects will inject a total of $17.7

Jef Gibbs

Tweed Shire Council has ofcially reopened the Crabbes Creek Community Hall following a $538,560 upgrade to improve safety, accessibility and food resilience. Delivered as part of the $15.5 million Community Assets Program, the project was jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments through the CommonwealthState Disaster Recovery Funding

Arrangements (DRFA) to restore and enhance community infrastructure damaged by storms and foods.

The hall, which has served the town since 1908, was ofcially reopened on 30 June with a community celebration hosted by the Crabbes Creek Hall Committee and attended by Mayor Chris Cherry and Council staf.

Mayor Cherry said the upgraded hall was a vital investment in the community’s long-term resilience.

million into local ventures.

“These projects will provide amenities for students and athletes, support our local Aboriginal communities and revitalise the Tweed CBD and attract visitors, provide further educational opportunities all of which will stimulate the local economy and help create local jobs,” said Lismore MP, Janelle Safn.

SCU Vice President of Strategy and Technology, Jack Williamson said a world standard athletics facility was core to the

master plan of the Lismore campus.

“We are so thrilled the NSW government is supporting that initiative,” he said.

“This facility will be transformative for the university and the timing is brilliant as we lead up to the Olympics in seven years.

“It will be a world standard synthetic 400m running track and all the feld events: long jump, high jump, pole vault as well.”

Where the money is

going

• $3,672,000 for Southern Cross University in Lismore to build the Southern Cross Regional Athletics Facility

• $4,089,704 for McCaughey Investments Pty Ltd in Casino to establish a regional cold storage facility

• $1,500,000 for Tweed Shire Council to revitalise its city’s CBD.

• $982,726 for the Jagun Alliance Aboriginal Corporation to develop cultural land management practices and support Aboriginal economic development on Bundjalung Country.

• $831,024 for the Taree Universities Campus to build local workforce capacity, address workforce shortages and improve access to skills and training.

• $467,274 for the Waarugirr Indigenous Corporation to establish and develop outdoor industry skills for Aboriginal communities in and around Bowraville.

“The reopening of Crabbes Creek Hall marks a meaningful step in our community’s food recovery journey. This upgrade not only restores a vital place to connect and celebrate but ensures it’s safer, more accessible and better equipped for the future,” she said.

Key upgrades focused on implementing foodresistant materials and design, following damage during the 2022 foods. Accessibility has also been enhanced with a new accessible

toilet, improved car parking, and connecting pathways. These additions will serve hall users and visitors to the Northern Rivers Rail Trail

Other improvements include solar panels, a new battery system for energy security during power outages, water tanks, and a relocated sewer system.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said the project provided the community with a safer and stronger space.

“This investment gives communities confdence that they have a welcoming, resilient place to rely on during tough times,” Minister McBain said.

Federal Member for Richmond Justine Elliot added the upgrades would ensure the hall remained an accessible, vibrant hub for decades to come.

The refurbished hall is now being enjoyed by local groups and visitors, supporting community connection, creativity and celebration.

The Crabbes Creek Hall Commitee and Council Staf who celebrated the Hall’s ofcial opening on 30 June. Tweed Shire Council Mayor, Chris Cherry is pictured back row centre.

Williamson, PSA slam Minns Government over regional job cuts

Tim Howard

Staf have described the process where their jobs are “delisted” while they remain employees as “demoralising”.

The NSW Government’s announcement of sweeping job cuts in the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) has created some strange bedfellows.

Clarence MP Richie Williamson and the Public Service Association (PSA) have both condemned the move as a blow to regional communities.

The NSW Government plans to cut 165 positions from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD), the state’s only agency focused solely on rural and regional support.

But the PSA says the actual fgure is 266 jobs lost, ofset by 111 new positions—many of which may not match the skills or locations of those made redundant.

Mr Williamson said the Minns Government was turning its back on regions like the Richmond and Clarence Valleys.

“These are real people with families and deep ties

to our local towns,” he said.

“To see the Labor Government once again turn its back on our regions at a time when we need more support—not less—is simply disgraceful.”

He said jobs in his electorate were directly under threat, warning that cuts would afect agriculture, biosecurity, regional development, and the Rural Assistance Authority—a body critical for food and drought recovery.

“In the past year alone, we’ve faced catastrophic foods, ongoing drought, and mounting pressure on food and fbre production,” he said.

“How can this government justify gutting the very department meant to stand by us during these challenges?” he said.

He also took aim at cuts to TAFE NSW and looming job losses at Transport for NSW, labelling the changes a “dangerous trend” in which essential services in regional areas were being systematically eroded.

“This is Labor governing for Newcastle, Sydney and Wollongong—while regional NSW is ignored and left behind,” he said.

“It’s a disgrace.”

The PSA echoed those concerns, calling the cuts a short-sighted attempt at reform that will gut frontline services and expertise built over decades.

In a strongly worded statement, the union criticised the consultation process, saying it was “wholly inadequate” and gave the impression the agency had no genuine

intention of engaging with its workforce.

“The deletion of ongoing roles, especially those located in regional NSW, should be a last resort,” said the PSA.

“Yet professional and technical staf have been disproportionately targeted, with some specialist roles being replaced by general clerks.”

The PSA warned that

DPIRD’s ability to deliver services would be undermined, particularly in areas like biosecurity, agriculture, and natural resource management.

Assistant general secretary Troy Wright said the changes were not genuine reform but a rushed cost-cutting exercise that ignored the complexity of the department’s work.

“In efect, this is not the modernisation of support to regional communities and primary producers—it is the lowest common denominator of support,” Mr Wright said.

“The job losses will hurt regional communities, and the loss of services and programs will hurt those regional primary producers.

“Thousands of years of research and expertise will be lost.

"That will ultimately cost NSW regional communities and primary producers more than the current black hole in the budget.

The union also questioned the timing of the cuts, noting the Minns Government had only recently announced an additional $140 million for the department.

“Or was it really just smoke and mirrors?”

Wright said. Both Williamson and the PSA are calling for the cuts to be reversed and for the government to invest in regional capacity rather than reduce it.

With staf briefngs underway and fnal decisions expected soon, the backlash suggests the Minns Government may face signifcant political and industrial pressure if it proceeds with the reforms as planned.

Inside the DPIRD staf are hurt and bewildered at the process.

Staf have described the process where their jobs are “delisted” while they remain employees as “demoralising”.

“We’re told our role on a team has been delisted but we can make expressions of interest in roles in other teams that might be similar or suit our skill sets,” said one employee going through the consultation process.

One said they understood the process could involve employees expressing interest in a number of roles.

“But if they can’t fnd a role for you, then they can make you redundant,” one said.

Member for Clarence Richie Williamson says job cuts announced by the Minns Government in two government agencies are an attack or regional people.

Tweed Heads Welcomes New $2.3 Million

Robert Heyward

The Minns Labor Government has ofcially opened a brand-new $2.3 million Service NSW Centre in Tweed Heads, delivering a signifcant upgrade to customer service in the Northern Rivers.

Located within Tweed Mall, the new purpose-built facility replaces the previous centre with a more accessible layout, private meeting spaces, modern counters, and self-service touch screens. It provides locals with easier access to over 1,300 NSW Government services and transactions.

Service NSW Centre

Premier Chris Minns said the new centre would make it simpler for residents to access key services such as Seniors Cards, driver licences, and cost-ofliving support. “This $2.3 million upgrade delivers a larger space and the latest technology, making

a visit to Service NSW in Tweed Heads as easy as possible,” he said.

Since quietly opening its doors in June, the centre has already recorded over 8,000 customer visits and a 94 per cent satisfaction rate.

More than 77,000 people used the old centre last

year.

Minister for Customer Service Jihad Dib said the improvements are part of a broader Service NSW refresh program, with nine centres upgraded last fnancial year.

Minister for the North Coast Janelle Safn praised the community focus, saying the upgraded centre gives locals and small businesses the faceto-face support they value in a safe, modern space.

The Tweed Heads Service NSW Centre is open Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 5pm and Saturdays from 8:30am to 12:30pm.

Temporary lighting on Hinterland Way to protect koalas during breeding season

Jef Gibbs

Koala breeding season is underway, and with more koalas on the move searching for mates, the risk of vehicle collisions is higher than ever.

To help protect the vulnerable marsupials, a $65,000 grant from the NSW Government will fund the installation of temporary lighting on Hinterland Way near Bangalow, a known hotspot for koala activity.

“Between 2019 and 2025, 18 koalas have died on this stretch of road, so we hope the lights will give drivers more time to spot and avoid them,” said Liz Caddick, Council’s Biodiversity Team Leader. Electronic message boards

will also be installed to alert drivers about increased koala activity. “We are very grateful to the NSW Government for the funding, and Bangalow Koalas, led by Linda Sparrow, is also very supportive of this initiative,” Ms Caddick added. The approach follows a successful 2024 trial on Broken Head Road at Byron Bay, where the installation of solarpowered lighting led to no further koala deaths at that site. The project is being delivered by the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW).

Anyone who encounters a sick or injured koala should contact Friends of the Koala on 6622 1233 (24 hours).

Learn how to save big bucks on your energy bills

By Tim Howard

Grafton residents have a chance to hear from one of the world’s leading voices in renewable energy when engineer and author Saul Grifth brings his Faster and Fairer tour to town on Friday.

The free public event, hosted by Rewiring Australia, will take place at Vines at 139 Fitzroy Street from 2.30pm.

Grifth will explain how electrifying homes, businesses and transport can lower energy bills, cut carbon emissions, and make communities more resilient in the face of rising climate risks.

The tour supports Grifth’s latest book, Plug In: The Electrifcation Handbook, which provides step-by-step advice for households, renters, tradies, and small businesses on making the switch from fossil fuels to clean, allelectric systems powered by rooftop solar and backed by batteries.

Grifth’s central message is simple but profound: if Australians replace ageing gas appliances, petrol cars, and inefcient heaters with modern electric alternatives, powered increasingly by home solar, they can save thousands each year while dramatically reducing their carbon footprint.

“Australia is perfectly placed to lead the world in household electrifcation,” Grifth said in launching the tour.

“We have the highest rates of rooftop solar, skilled tradies, and a public ready to embrace solutions that are good for the planet and their wallets.”

Rewiring Australia’s modelling shows that a fully electrifed Australian household could save up to

$3500 a year on energy and fuel bills.

These savings come from combining rooftop solar, electric vehicles, reverse-cycle heating and cooling, and efcient electric cooktops and water systems—eliminating reliance on volatile global gas and oil markets.

Grifth, who holds a PhD from MIT in materials science and information theory, brings considerable authority to these claims.

A former MacArthur “genius grant” recipient, he has advised the US Department of Energy and the Biden administration on climate and energy policy.

In 2020 he returned to Australia and co-founded Rewiring Australia to help drive similar reforms here.

His previous books,

Electrify and The Big Switch, laid out the case for decarbonisation through electrifcation, but Plug In shifts focus to practical, household-level change.

His advocacy helped inspire policies like the ACT government’s ban on new gas connections and federal moves to incentivise electric vehicle uptake.

The Faster and Fairer tour is a continuation of this grassroots strategy— bringing the electrifcation message directly to communities, particularly in regional areas often overlooked in climate policy debates.

In Grafton, Grifth will be joined by local community groups already advancing energy transition projects, showcasing how households and councils

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can work together to speed up the shift.

The tour name—Faster and Fairer—refects a key theme in Grifth’s work: ensuring the benefts of the energy transition are shared equitably, not just concentrated in wealthy urban centres.

Tickets to the event are free but registration is recommended via Humanitix. For those unable to attend, Rewiring Australia ofers downloadable resources, calculators, and action plans at rewiringaustralia. org.

Grifth’s message to Australians is clear: the clean energy future isn’t something distant or theoretical—it’s available now, in your own home, and it can save you money.

A world leading fgure in renewable energy conversion, Saul Grifth, will bring his Faster and Fairer Tour to Grafton on Friday. He can show Australians how they can save up $3500 a year on energy costs.

Premier of NSW Chris Minns

$80,000 to provide new emergency vehicle

Casino Rescue Squad volunteer frst responders have received a very early Christmas present of a new 4WD rescue vehicle.

Thanks to an $80,000 grant from the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnerships Program, the volunteers’ outdated unit will soon be replaced.

Clarence Nationals MP, Richie Williamson, announced the funding last week at Casino.

“This funding recognises the incredible dedication of the volunteers who give their time to help others and ensures they have the resources they need to do their job safely,” Mr Williamson said.

While the current rescue vehicle was once considered state-of-theart, it no longer meets the modern safety standards. The new vehicle will provide safer and more efcient access to rescue equipment and ensure the Squad is better equipped to serve the community.

Region Operations

Manager of the Casino Rescue Squad, Inspector, Paul Cowles, said the support from the community and government was deeply appreciated.

“We are incredibly grateful to Richie Williamson, the NSW Government and the people of Casino and the wider region for their support,” he said.

“This funding means a great deal to our volunteers and the community we serve.”

“The new all-terrain 4WD rescue vehicle will enhance our ability to respond quickly and safely across challenging environments, ensuring we’re ready to respond 24/7, 365 days a year whenever and wherever our community needs us most.”

The Casino Rescue Squad is part of the NSW Volunteer Rescue Association, a network of professionally trained volunteers providing specialist rescue services throughout the state.

Encouraging young people to let peace prevail

By Samantha Elley

In 1955, shortly after World War Two, a Japanese man by the name of Masahisa Goi started the Peace Pole movement. He had been deeply distressed by the devastation caused by the atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, which had killed around 200,000 people.

Instead of lashing out in bitterness, he began a mission to spread a simple message:

‘May Peace Prevail on Earth’.

This story is printed on the latest peace pole, which now stands on the village green of Ballina Coast High School, unveiled in a simple ceremony last week by Ballina-on-Richmond Rotary.

The message is written in four languages: Bundjalung, Japanese, Indonesian and English.

“It is a great honour to stand here amongst students, rotarians, community leaders and friends to unveil a symbol that speaks so

deeply of the values we share: peace, unity and understanding,” said Ballina-on-Richmond president, Rob Chilman.

“Rotary clubs across the world continue to champion this initiative as part of our commitment to peace and confict resolution.

“This new installation marks Ballina’s ofcial place on the international peace map and represents

our community’s shared hope for a more united and compassionate world.”

Ballina mayor Sharon Cadwallader says the Peace Pole bears a powerful message of peace, harmony and unity.

“These words which will now stand within your school grounds remind us that peace is not just about the absence of confict, but is the shared

commitment of kindness, understanding and compassion,” she said.

“To the students and staf of Ballina Coast High School, your community has been chosen to host this symbol of peace because the seeds of peace have been sown in the hearts and minds of our young people.

“The world you are growing into needs your

strength, your voice and your leadership to build a better tomorrow.”

The principal of BCHS, Peter Howes, said the values of the peace pole matched those of the school.

“I was so proud that we are in partnership with Rotary to have this peace pole here today,” he said.

“As we lean into our values I encourage all our young people that it

is you who are going to make the diference of peace in the world and it is on your shoulders.

“The question is: will you be frst class citizens or second class robots?”

The peace pole in Ballina is now one of 600 across Australia and joins over 300,000 planted worldwide including in places such as Machu Picchu and the pyramids at Gaza.

Richie with volunteer members of the Casino Rescue Squad – L-R: Eathan McDonald, Samantha Slaney, Matthew Jackson along with Region Operations Manager of the Casino Rescue Squad, Inspector Paul Cowles (white shirt).

‘May Peace Prevail on Earth’

New Ballina SES Headquarters to Strengthen Regional Emergency Response

Ballina Shire Council, in partnership with NSW State Emergency Service (SES), is preparing to commence construction of a new, state-of-the-art SES Unit and Emergency Operations Centre, marking a major step forward in the region’s emergency preparedness.

The purpose-built facility will be located within the Ballina Shire and is designed to replace the existing, outdated headquarters on the corner of Angels Beach Drive and Bangalow Road. With design works fnalised and the construction tender process complete, Council has awarded the contract to a preferred builder, with ground set to break in September 2025.

Ballina Shire Mayor Sharon Cadwallader said the project demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting the essential work of SES volunteers and enhancing community resilience. “This project

represents a major step forward in supporting the vital work of our local SES volunteers and emergency services,” she said. “It’s an investment in our community’s safety and future, ensuring Ballina Shire is better equipped to face the increasing threat of foods, storms and other extreme weather events.”

The new facility is expected to signifcantly improve operational efciency, response times, and coordination during emergencies. It will feature modern amenities designed to support SES members in their critical work, including managing food evacuations, storm damage and large-scale emergencies.

The project is jointly funded, with $2.1 million from the NSW Government and a further $4.2 million investment from Ballina Shire Council, bringing the total budget to $6.3 million. Construction is scheduled for completion

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in late 2026, with the new headquarters expected to become a key hub for local disaster response eforts.

A Review of Environmental Factors (REF) has been completed and approved, outlining all potential environmental impacts associated with the project. This review includes mitigation strategies and ensures that environmental protections are upheld during both construction and operation of the facility.

To enable the project to move forward, a number of trees on the site will need to be removed. This will be carried out in accordance with Ballina Shire Council’s Signifcant Tree Guidelines and Vegetation Management Plan to minimise ecological impact and maintain local biodiversity.

Once complete, the new Ballina SES headquarters will provide a safe, functional and resilient space for SES volunteers

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Mayor Cadwallader described the initiative as “a significant partnership that will deliver lasting benefits for the people of Ballina Shire.”

and emergency teams to operate efectively in the face of increasingly severe weather events. The project is a clear example of proactive collaboration between local and state

government, aiming to future-proof Ballina Shire’s capacity to respond to emergencies and protect lives and property.

Mayor Cadwallader described the initiative as “a signifcant partnership that will deliver lasting benefts for the people of Ballina Shire.”

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS – HELP SHINE A LIGHT ON OUR HIDDEN TREASURES

Clarence Nationals

MP Richie Williamson is encouraging locals to nominate inspiring women and girls from across the region for the 2025 Hidden Treasures Honour Roll, which recognises the invaluable contribution of female volunteers in rural, regional and remote communities.

Since 2010, the Honour Roll has celebrated more than 1,300 women and girls who give their time, skills and energy to help others through volunteering — from sporting clubs and emergency services, to schools, community halls, and charities.

“This is a fantastic way to give our local volunteers the recognition they truly deserve,” Mr Williamson said.

“In every corner of the Clarence electorate, women and girls are making a powerful diference — often quietly and without fanfare. Hidden Treasures is about shining a light on

those behind-the-scenes heroes who help keep our communities strong, connected and supported.”

Nominations are open to women and girls of all ages and backgrounds. Anyone can nominate a deserving individual, and women over the age of 18 can also self-nominate. This is a non-competitive program, and all eligible nominees are included in the digital Honour Roll.

Two local women who featured in the 2024 Honour Roll include 2024 Clarence Electorate Local Woman of the Year, Cheryl Dimmock of Iluka, recognised for her instrumental role in founding Iluka Community Organising Planning for Emergencies (ICOPE) — a grassroots group focused on strengthening local emergency preparedness and community resilience, and Melinda McLennan of Casino, whose tireless volunteer work in maternal mental health advocacy has had lasting impact across Northern

for a Community Road Safety Grant

NSW and beyond.

Mr Williamson caught up with Melinda earlier this week in Casino to congratulate and thank her for her contributions.

“Melinda founded The Nurtured Village Hampers in the Northern Rivers and has supported over 80 local families, led a major campaign for a Mother & Baby Unit in the region, and contributed to national organisations and inquiries focused on perinatal wellbeing,” Mr Williamson said.

“Both Melinda and Cheryl are shining examples of some of the ‘hidden treasures’ in our community, and I congratulate them both on this well-deserved recognition.”

Nominations for the 2025 Honour Roll are now open and close Wednesday, 31 December 2025.

To nominate a Hidden Treasure or for more information, visit: www. dpi.nsw.gov.au/about-us/ rural-support/hiddentreasures

transport.nsw.gov.au/road-safety-grants

Images: Concept designs for the new Ballina SES Headquarters

Jef Gibbs

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Caravan park evictions legal bills could cost “millions”

By Tim Howard

The legal cost of evicting semi-permanent caravan park residents from Clarence Valley caravan parks could run into millions of dollars, says the leader of the group representing the residents.

Simon Chase, the chair of the Clarence Valley SemiPermanent Van Group said more than 100 residents had taken appeals against Clarence Valley Council’s decision to evict residents from the four parks it manage to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

Mr Chase said eforts to obtain those documents through formal channels have been consistently blocked by council’s general manager Laura Black, triggering a protracted and costly legal battle now set for a full hearing before NCAT in Sydney on August 22. After the last NCAT hearing the council revealed its legal fees for that hearing alone amounted to $16,000.

Allegations of secrecy, legal stonewalling and

misuse of public funds mount as NCAT hearing looms

The council has come under fre from residents and community advocates over its decision to evict 136 semi-permanent van owners from councilmanaged holiday parks.

Mr Chase said the group initially fled a request for information under the Government Information Public Access Act, seeking documents including cost-beneft analyses, risk assessments, park occupancy fgures, internal briefngs, and records of delegation and decisionmaking.

The GM rejected the application, prompting the group to escalate the matter to NCAT, which issued a summons compelling the GM to produce the material.

Instead of complying, Mr Chase said the general manager has hired external legal counsel to contest the summons—at a projected cost of tens of thousands of dollars, potentially rising into the millions as more than 100 related resident appeals remain before NCAT.

“These are taxpayer dollars being used not to serve the public, but to keep them in the dark,” Chase

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said in a statement last week.

“This could have been resolved months ago with no cost to ratepayers, if the GM had shown a shred of leadership or basic decency by meeting with the group.”

The statement goes further, accusing the GM of deliberately misleading both councillors and the public, avoiding mediation, and attempting to protect herself from accountability by concealing documentation that could become central to a future class action or compensation claim.

“If such a legal class action succeeds, it could result in multi-million dollar payouts, ultimately leaving ratepayers to shoulder the fnancial burden,” Mr Chase said.

“It has been suggested that this potential liability may well explain the GM’s determination to keep the requested information hidden.”

He also criticised Clarence Valley Mayor Ray Smith for failing to intervene, saying his silence in the face of “clear misconduct” amounted to

complicity.

“The Clarence Valley Council is in disarray,” the statement said.

“It is dysfunctional, unaccountable, and operating without the transparency required and expected by its community. The time for half-measures is over. The NSW Government must intervene.”

Calls are now growing

for the appointment of an independent administrator to take control of the council’s afairs and restore public trust.

Clarence Valley Council has not responded to the latest claims. NCAT will consider the matter at a full hearing on August 22. The council said it would not comment on the matter because it was subject to legal action.

NBN Upgrades Boost Internet Speed Across Byron Shire

Jef Gibbs

Thousands of homes and businesses in Byron Shire are now beneftting from major NBN fbre and fxed wireless upgrades. More than 9,000 premises in Byron Bay, Bangalow, Sufolk Park, Ocean Shores and Mullumbimby are now eligible to upgrade to full fbre, delivering faster, more reliable internet.

Residents in Bangalow, Ewingsdale and Federal are also experiencing improved connectivity via the enhanced Fixed Wireless network, which now ofers

peak wholesale speeds of up to 250 Mbps download. The upgrades support smoother streaming, clearer video calls, faster gaming, and better multi-device use. To access full fbre, eligible households must order a high-speed plan (100 Mbps or more) through a participating provider. The NBN Local team will host information sessions across the region from August 7–11 to help residents learn more about the upgrades. To check eligibility, visit www.nbn.com.au/ checkregional.

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A Clarence Valley Council staf decision to evict semipermanent residents from residences like these in its caravan parks could become costly with more than 100 residents fghting the move in NCAT.

Clarence River Survey Calls for Citizen Scientists to Help Give the River a ‘Health Check’

Robert Heyward

The Clarence River Guardians, in partnership with Southern Cross University (SCU), are calling on community members to take part in a major citizen science project – the Baseline Sediment Survey – to help assess the health of the Clarence River and its catchments.

The survey will run over the weekend of 18–19 October, with more than 100 samples collected from key locations throughout the river catchment. Citizen scientists will receive training and be provided with sampling kits, maps, and instructions before heading out to collect samples in teams of at least two adults (25+).

The samples will be analysed for heavy metals and over 50 chemical

elements by SCU experts in laboratories at the university’s Northern Rivers campus.

Professor Scott Johnston, hydrogeochemist at SCU, said the data would establish a vital baseline for ongoing river health monitoring.

“Science can guide us to make better decisions about how we manage our rivers. This comprehensive data will establish a baseline for monitoring,” Professor

Johnston said.

“The community is at the heart of this project and the sediment collection would not be possible without their help.”

Yaegl Elder Aunty Elizabeth highlighted the cultural signifcance of the river, describing it as a connector of communities. Lions Club of Clarence President Tracy Patemen also praised the community–science partnership.

“These kinds of

BUNDJALARMS NETBALL CLUB WINS FUNDING TO BOOST COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION

Lismore Bundjalarms Netball Club has secured a win in Greater Bank’s Northern Rivers Indigenous Community Funding Round, with funding set to support a range of initiatives designed to bring families together and break down barriers to participation in sport.

As a community club, Bundjalarms is focused on supporting players and their families both on and of the court. The funding will go towards a variety of activities that encourage connection, improve health outcomes, and increase access to netball across the region. One of the key ideas in development is a NAIDOC Netball Cup, with plans to run the event during the next school holidays as a celebration of culture, community and sport.

Bundjalarms Netball Club President Ajay Harrington said the funding would help bring several communityfocused initiatives to life.

“This funding helps us bring more of the community together

through netball,” Mr Harrington said. “We’ll be able to support families, get more kids on court, and create opportunities like the NAIDOC Netball Cup to celebrate culture and connection in a way that feels local and meaningful.”

Greater Bank’s Northern Rivers Regional Manager Scott McCluskey said the Bundjalarms’ strong focus on inclusion and wellbeing made them a standout in this year’s Indigenous Round. “Bundjalarms are building something really special. They are creating a club that brings people together, keeps kids active, and opens up opportunities well beyond the court.

It’s a privilege to support them,” Mr McCluskey said.

Announced during NAIDOC Week, the funding also refects NGM Group’s ongoing commitment to building strong, meaningful relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, as outlined in its Reconciliation Action Plan. Supporting grassroots initiatives like this is one way the Group aims to foster greater economic opportunity, social inclusion and fnancial wellbeing.

To learn more about the Greater Bank Community Funding Program or vote in upcoming rounds, visit https://www.greater.com. au/greaternorthernrivers.

partnerships between communities and scientifc institutions are becoming

increasingly important,” she said.

The central hubs for the

survey will be Grafton and Tabulam. Participants must be able to reach collection sites unassisted, but full support will be provided through short online training videos and feld resources.

To register for the Baseline Sediment Survey and join the Clarence River citizen science efort, visit: clarenceriverguardians. net/project-1

Lismore Bundjalarms Netball Club

Nymboida Gorge Clarence River catchment credit Scott Johnston Clarence River community group

Sea World Foundation Save Juvenile New Zealand Fur Seal Following Shark Bite Injury

The Sea World Foundation team have returned a juvenile New Zealand Fur Seal to the Solitary Islands of Cofs Harbour after just over six weeks of rehabilitation from a severe shark bite wound.

The young seal was rescued after being located in the canals of Newport, North of Brisbane in June with a signifcant shark bite to her abdomen and out of the geographic range for her species.

After six weeks of rehabilitation at Sea World, the young seal was returned to the Solitary Islands on Tuesday with a satellite tag deployed to allow the team to monitor her movements, already traveling south to Scotts Head.

Sea World Foundation Curator of Operations and Animal Welfare, Mitchell Leroy said this was a great result for this seal, especially considering the nature of the injuries she came into care.

“Upon rescue we were unsure of the outcome for this seal as the shark bite was signifcant, but she responded extremely well to her veterinary care, nutrition and rehabilitation and it was wonderful to be able to

return her back to the ocean,” he said.

“We travelled down to Cofs Harbour to return her to the Solitary Islands, which is the northern most range for the species, and it was fabulous to her swimming away and straight into her normal behaviours such as grooming and face scrubbing.

“Occasionally at this time of year we see vagrant seals make their way north, but we have returned her with a satellite tracker as part of a wider

research project to understand more about their movements.”

Sea World Foundation Head Veterinarian, Dr. Claire Madden said it was rewarding for the team to see this little seal overcome her injuries and go full circle from admission to return to the ocean.

“When she came into care, she was underweight and sufering from the shark bite wound so we administered some fuids and cleaned the wound to give her the best chance of survival,”

she said.

“Her rehabilitation at Sea World consisted of a tailored nutritional regime and through providing a safe environment to recover, it was amazing to see the wound heal to the position where she was ready for return and to get her back out to the open ocean.”

The tag was deployed on the seal as part of the New South Wales Seabirds to Seascapes –Protecting Coastal Biodiversity project.

Tweed Heads CBD to Undergo $1.9 Million

Tweed Heads is set for a vibrant transformation with $1.9 million allocated to revamp the town centre under the Border Bleak to Border Beautiful Project. Backed by $1.5 million in state funding and a $400,000 Council contribution, the initiative aims to enhance key areas like Wharf Street, Bay Street and Jack Evans Boat Harbour.

Led by Tweed Shire Council and supported by the Tweed Heads Business Chamber, the project will deliver upgraded street infrastructure, improved signage, murals, uplighting and seasonal displays. A commercial hub is also planned at the former border visitor centre site.

Council General Manager Troy Green said the project’s timing aligns with preparations for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics and the upcoming $900 million Tweed Mall redevelopment.

Construction is set to begin in 2026, with the revitalisation expected to boost safety, tourism, business and community pride— shaping Tweed Heads into a vibrant northern gateway for NSW.

Sea World Foundation Saves Seal After Shark Bite

Rugby league loses favourite son

Samantha Elley

Evans Head lost a loved son last week, when 45year resident, John Mayes passed away from brain cancer.

Before moving to the Northern Rivers, John had had a successful career in rugby league, playing for the Eastern Suburbs Roosters and Manly Sea Eagles.

He had achieved three back-to-back premierships with both the clubs, winning the 1973 grand fnal with Manly, then the 1974 and 1975 grand fnals with Eastern Suburbs.

A record that would stand for 45 years before it was broken by Cooper Cronk in 2017.

The Mayes family advised the Evans Head community of John’s passing on the local Facebook page, Evans Head Notice Board.

“It is with much sadness that we have to let you know that our beloved John Mayes passed away peacefully this morning, Wednesday 30 July,” the post said.

“He put up a good fght and was a trooper to the end.”

His oldest son Brad said everybody loved his dad.

“He was a great man,” he said.

“No one ever had a bad word to say about him.

“He really loved, later on in life, seeing his fve grandchildren.

“He would be at their presentations, sporting events and performances.”

When the family moved to Evans Head, John and his wife, Margaret, bought the local newsagency and had that for over 30 years, according to Brad.

John became heavily involved with many local Evans Head sporting and community groups.

“He was a life member of Evans Head touch footie and the Golden Oldies,” said Brad.

“It goes back to the days where there was a social comp and it led him to start the touch footie association and he was the president.

“He played in the very frst a-grade grand fnal and our family side won it.”

John was also involved in the Evans Head-Casino Surf Club, becoming caretaker after retiring

from the newsagency.

“He loved being on patrol and being involved

with the people in the club,” said Brad. Many tributes have been

left on social media for John.

“Today is a very sad day for the Evans Head Touch Football community,” said Evans Head Touch Football secretary, Jo Slade, on their Facebook page.

“Our very much loved and respected Life Member, John Mayes has passed away.

“John was not only a player, he was a referee, long term club president and had a passion for this sport and our club.

“I am sure many of you have played against John throughout the years and/ or been refed by this awesome man.”

The Evans Head-Casino Surf Life Saving Club posted a tribute to his dedication, patrolling the beach, caretaking the surf club and managing the bar.

The Evans Head Bombers Rugby League Football Club acknowledged John’s jersey number 586 and wore black armbands as a sign of respect for his contribution to the game.

“He won an order of merit for Australian sporting achievements in

2000 from the Queen,” said Brad.

Only this year in February, John had been made a life member of the Roosters, the club that had his heart.

John leaves behind wife, Margaret, and four children: Brad, Adam, Glen and Marnie and his fve grand-children.

John’s funeral will be held on Monday, August 11th, 10.30am at Stan Payne Oval, Booyong Street, Evans Head. Bring a chair.

Achievements by John Mayes during his football career.

l Scored 71 tries over 134 frst grade matches

l Represented Australia in three tests at the 1975 World Cup.

l Halfback for Eastern Suburbs Roosters and Manly Sea Eagles

l Won three grand fnal premierships in 1973, 1974 and 1975.

l The only player to play in three consecutive premiership sides for diferent clubs until Glenn Lazarus in 19891993, then Cooper Cronk in 2017-2019

John Mayes

Want to swim in the information sea. Who would be your coach?

By Tim Howard

Early last year Loving Life FM radio announcer Leonie Ryan interviewed me for her program, Leonie’s Locals.

The conversation turned to how people struggled to deal with increasing masses of information confronting them daily.

I made the comment that rather than drown in a sea of information we could learn to swim in it.

It seemed an interesting metaphor for the times.

But swimming — whether in water or information — requires skill. And to gain mastery, we often need coaching.

That thought stayed with me — and led me to consider the thinkers who have helped me fnd clarity in chaos. One of the most enduring of these is George Orwell.

In an age where information foods every screen and every moment, it is easy to feel overwhelmed — pulled under by a current of headlines, half-truths, outrage, and distraction.

Navigating it all requires more than just keeping your head above water. It requires learning to swim.

This is where Orwell becomes not just a writer of warnings, but a kind of coach — helping us refne our stroke, keep our bearings, and move with clarity through the chaos. His writing, especially Animal Farm and Politics and the English Language, ofers tools for staying afoat: a commitment to truth, an ear for distorted language, and a belief that even in dark times, thinking clearly is a kind of freedom.

Orwell believed that language is political — not just in what it says, but in how it shapes what we see.

In Politics and the English Language, he argued that vague, infated, or euphemistic language makes lies easier to tell and injustice harder to detect. He was not simply a stylist; he was a moralist. Clear prose, for Orwell, was a way of fghting for truth.

To him, bad language was not just sloppy — it was dangerous. It could be used to sanitise violence, excuse inequality, or dull people’s ability to resist.

Like a swimmer wasting energy thrashing against

In

the

the tide, a citizen caught in unclear or manipulative language loses direction and purpose.

We see this play out vividly in Animal Farm.

At frst, the animals create a set of commandments grounded in fairness and equality.

But as the pigs consolidate power, they rewrite these rules — gradually, subtly, and always with slippery language.

By the time “All animals are equal” has morphed into “All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others,” language itself has become a tool of domination.

Orwell is showing us how words can be bent to justify

betrayal, and how people — or animals — can be made to accept it, if the phrasing sounds just plausible enough.

To swim through the sea of information is to learn to spot these distortions, to know the diference between surface and depth.

This is where Orwell’s belief in clarity becomes not just a tool of resistance, but a lifeline.

Consider the way we frame disability, for instance.

The phrase “confned to a wheelchair” suggests tragedy and limitation; “wheelchair user” describes function and agency. The diference is subtle, but profound.

Orwell would have

Council Seeks Input on South Lismore Land Use Changes

Jef Gibbs

Lismore City Council is calling on the community to have their say on a proposed planning change designed to unlock new opportunities for cultural, educational, and commercial activities in South Lismore’s rail corridor precinct.

The Planning Proposal seeks to amend existing planning controls to allow additional land uses on mapped E4 General Industrial land near the rail corridor. These would include community facilities, entertainment venues, education spaces, and retail premises.

Mayor Steve Krieg said the proposal is part of Council’s broader

plan to revitalise key areas of the city and boost the local economy.

“By updating the permitted land uses, we can activate underused spaces and create new reasons for people to visit, shop, and connect in South Lismore,” he said. “It’s about ensuring these areas evolve to meet the needs

of our community.”

Council’s Acting Head of Planning and Environment, Jamie van Iersel, added that the changes would “unlock the potential of land at the heart of our urban area” and encourage future investment.

The proposal also includes venues such as theatres and galleries,

recognised it as a perfect example of how framing can either reveal or distort reality.

In the digital age, where spin and framing shape so much of public discourse, Orwell’s insistence on precise language becomes essential.

It is the diference between being swept along by a current and choosing your direction.

Yet clarity is not only about survival — it can also be about joy.

This is where an unlikely companion joins Orwell in the water: the poet William Wordsworth.

A former teacher once said Wordsworth believed that joy was a stronger force than despair, and that has stayed with me.

While Orwell is often remembered for his bleak warnings, it’s easy to forget that he too believed in something better.

He believed that honest labour, clear speech, and intellectual freedom were worth fghting for — and that they were good in themselves.

They were not just defensive measures against tyranny; they were what

made life worth living.

Wordsworth celebrated quiet moments — a dafodil, a child’s laugh, a breeze across a lake.

Orwell celebrated the strength of ordinary people, the taste of good tea, the value of telling the truth plainly.

Both men believed that meaning arises not from grandeur or power, but from attention: to nature, to language, to human dignity. Both knew that despair is real — but that joy, quiet and persistent, is stronger. So perhaps swimming in the sea of information isn’t just about learning not to drown.

It’s about refning your stroke, choosing your direction, and discovering, even in deep water, a sense of grace. Orwell teaches us how to resist confusion, but also how to move with purpose. Wordsworth reminds us that moving through the world with care and clarity can also bring joy. In that sense, they are not so far apart. One is the lifeguard, the other the companion on the shore. Both are telling us: you can swim.

Byron Shire in the Spotlight at 2025 North Coast Tourism Symposium

Jef Gibbs

Byron Shire is playing host to the 2025 North Coast Tourism Symposium this week, with industry leaders gathering at the Byron Community Centre to explore ways to shape the future of the region’s visitor economy.

libraries, markets, and visitor information centres. Council is the fnal decision-maker for the proposal, and all developments would still require consent.

Submissions close 4:30pm, Monday 1 September 2025. Visit Your Say Lismore or email council@ lismore.nsw.gov.au for more details.

Jointly hosted by Byron Shire Council and Destination North Coast, the Symposium is centred on the theme Inspire! Shaping Tomorrow’s Visitor Economy. Topics include relaxation, adventure, wellness, environmental sustainability and how to capture these experiences for visitors.

Byron Shire Mayor Sarah Ndiaye said the region was well-positioned but acknowledged challenges as the industry continued to rebuild after COVID-19 and fooding.

“Byron Shire is fortunate that we are a destination people want to come to, and the most recent ofcial fgures have us hosting

some 1.8 million visitors a year,” Mayor Ndiaye said.

“Shaping tomorrow’s visitor economy is about ensuring our community thrives and our environment is well protected and biodiverse. That’s when we have something truly authentic to ofer visitors.”

Mayor Ndiaye added that the Symposium provides an opportunity for collaboration and shared learning.

“It’s about hearing what other regions are doing well, what’s working and what’s not,” she said.

The event will conclude with the 2025 North Coast Regional Tourism Awards on 31 July, celebrating outstanding tourism businesses and initiatives from across the North Coast, from the Tweed to Hawks Nest and out to Lord Howe Island. The Symposium aims to foster innovation and resilience in one of NSW’s most popular tourism destinations.

Photo supplied

Politics and

English Language English novelist and essayist George Orwell laid out clear principles for using clear English.

William Wordsworth was one of the founders of the Romantic Movement in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

Northern Rivers Rail Trail strikes Gold at 2025 North Coast Tourism Awards

Jef Gibbs

The Northern Rivers Rail Trail has won Gold in the Adventure Tourism category at the 2025 North Coast Tourism Awards and secured Silver in the Tourist Attraction category.

Hosted at Elements of Byron on Wednesday 31 July, the awards celebrated innovation, visitor experience and leadership among tourism operators across the region. This back-to-back win follows the Rail

Trail’s 2024 Gold in the Outstanding Tourism StartUp category.

Dean Cooper, Regional Lead for the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, said the award recognised the project’s collaboration and community impact.

“Winning Gold this year in the Adventure Tourism category is an incredible honour,” Dean said. “It refects the combined eforts of councils, community champions, trail operators and volunteers.”

The award highlights the popularity of the open sections from Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek and from Casino

to Lismore, which have quickly become major drawcards.

Dean thanked Tweed Shire, Richmond Valley and Lismore City councils for their leadership, as well as trail users, local villages and commercial operators for their ongoing support.

“To be recognised again this year—and with Silver in the Tourist Attraction category—is testament to

the Rail Trail’s connection to nature, local culture and sustainable tourism,” he said.

The Rail Trail is expected to become one of Australia’s premier multiday cycling and walking experiences, attracting thousands of visitors to the Northern Rivers each year. For full award results, visit Destination North Coast’s website.

New $2 Million Fire Station Opens in Alstonville

Robert Heyward

The Northern Rivers has gained stronger fre protection with the $2 million rebuild of Alstonville Fire Station, replacing the 45-year-old facility with a modern, purpose-built station.

The upgraded station includes improved training and storage facilities, better engine bay ventilation, additional bathrooms, and designated ‘clean’ and ‘dirty’ zones for frefghter safety. These enhancements will improve efciency and

emergency response times.

Emergency Services

Minister Jihad Dib said the rebuild is part of the NSW Government’s $98.7 million capital program for Fire and Rescue NSW.

Minister for the North Coast Janelle Safn

added the station will continue serving as a vital community hub during crises.

FRNSW Zone

Commander Greg Lewis said the new facilities were designed with crew input to meet future challenges.

New $2 Million Fire Station Opens in Alstonville

Cost of living front and centre as new Parliament opens

The 48th Parliament has ofcially opened in Canberra, with Kevin Hogan formally sworn in for another term as the Federal Member for Page.

As Parliament resumes this week, Mr Hogan said cost of living pressures remain front and centre

“Families and small businesses in our region are doing it tough under Labor, and it’s only getting worse. Every week I speak to people struggling with rising power bills, and the increased cost of living,” Mr Hogan said.

“The economy is stalling under Labor, and households are going backwards. Business investment is down, productivity has fatlined, and families are paying the price.”

“According to new data from Anglicare Australia, a single minimum- wage worker has just $33 left per week after paying for essential costs like rent,

food and transport. This is not good enough.”

“We have a great democracy in Australia. Elections are held peacefully, and results are respected – something

we should never take for granted. That’s what gives us the platform to hold the Government to account and fght for the issues that matter to our community.”

Nominations Now Open for 2025

Tweed Shire Australia Day Awards

Tweed Shire Council is inviting the community to celebrate its unsung heroes by nominating them for the 2025 Australia Day Awards. Nominations are now open and will close at 4:30 pm on Friday, 10 October 2025

The annual awards shine a spotlight on individuals and groups who go above and beyond in the Tweed, contributing their time, talents and energy to making the region a better place to live. From volunteers to artists, athletes and community organisers, the awards celebrate the people whose eforts often go unnoticed.

Mayor of Tweed Shire

Chris Cherry said the awards are a valuable opportunity to acknowledge the quiet achievers who form the backbone of the community.

“You don’t need to be an Olympian to be nominated. Small actions can have a big impact,”

Cr Cherry said.

“These awards are about recognising the everyday people who make our community stronger through their cultural, volunteer and sporting eforts. A

Renewal and friendship found in a mysterious garden

Title: The Secret Garden

Author: Frances Hodgson Burnett

Price: 415.80

Distributor: Booktopia

It’s time to go and revisit a classic.

In my younger years I don’t know how many times I must have read The Secret Garden.

that seems to be locked. It is through the help of a little robin that she discovers a way in and then the transformations take place, not just for Mary but the unlikely friends that she makes along the way.

simple nomination can be a powerful way to say thank you and well done.”

Nine Awards Across Seven Categories

This year’s awards feature nine awards across seven categories, giving residents multiple ways to celebrate those making a diference.

Categories include:

• Citizen of the Year

• Volunteer of the Year

– Individual and Group awards

• Sporting Achievement

– Individual and Group awards

• Arts and Culture

• Community Event of the Year

• Young Achiever in Community Service

• Senior Ambassador

The launch of nominations coincides with Local Government Week 2025 , highlighting the role local councils play in fostering strong, connected communities.

Ceremony and How to Nominate Winners will be announced at a special awards ceremony on Friday, 23 January 2026 , held in conjunction with

Tweed Shire’s annual citizenship celebrations.

If you know someone who deserves recognition for their outstanding contribution to the Tweed community, you can nominate them online at tweed.nsw.gov.au/ australia-day. The website also features inspiring stories of past winners to help guide nominations.

Nominations close at 4:30 pm on Friday, 10 October 2025, so don’t miss the opportunity to honour the local legends who make the Tweed a great place to live.

It sang to my love of all things mysterious and wonderful, centred around a young girl looking for friends.

That young girl is Mary Lennox and, through no choice of her own, she fnds herself at that deliciously Englishnamed Misselthwaite Manor.

While Mary is seen as plain and disagreeable, she is also very lonely.

One day, as she is exploring the grounds of the manor, she notices a walled area

The Secret Garden is more than a children’s book, with its strong message of renewal, hope and friendship. It is a place where all things old can become new again.

Frances Hodgson Burnett is the author of many plays and classic children’s stories including Little Lord Fauntleroy, A Little Princess and The Lost Prince.

She won a Newbery Medal for The Secret Garden, which was published in 1911. She died in 1924, leaving a lasting legacy through her works.

Kevin Hogan swearing in

Jef Gibbs

The Tweed’s Citizen of the Year 2024 is Tyalgum resident Mic Julien (centre). He is pictured with other Tweed Australia Day Award recipients, including (clockwise from top left): Tyalgum Scratchers, Isabella Millar, Jef Dunne, Gary Setchell, U16 Boys Tweed Valley Basketball Representative team, Tweed Coast Band, Murwillumbah Youth Action Group, Dane Henry and Phil Eizenberg

“Leemo has views on just about anything”

CATS v. HUMAN THINKING

‘Hmmm, summons from ‘Mum Jane’ was issued. (‘Leemo Cat’ here.) She said ALL us Buddies must be present at a ‘Question & Answer’ Forum which she will be recording: Treats IF we all participate. Ponder?! I rounded up ‘Treasure’, ‘Brutus’, ‘Flufy Bum’, ‘Pasqualie’, ‘Scarlet’ & ‘Milo’. We sat in a neato circle & Mum spoke: ‘Right you lot, pay attention, I am writing a thesis on the ‘What Cats Think’ for a DIC I’m doing & ask that you each, in turn, answer the question I ask you. ‘Treasure’ whispered ‘Leems, that a rude word, what IS she ON about?’ I informed Treasure it means ‘Doctorial in Cats’. Treasure did an eye roll: remained silent. Mum spoke. ‘Right, 1st question is for you ‘Flufy Bum’. WHAT EXACTLY goes on in your cat mind when you stare fxedly at a blade of grass for 20min then leap in the air, howl & climb a tree?’ Well, ‘Flufs’ spoke up & said ‘it told me a ferce ant bit my private parts & to escape to the tree.’ Mum didn’t look impressed. ‘OK, ‘Brutus’ your turn. ‘What goes through your mind when you see a puppy walking past your house?’ ‘Brutus’ responded. ‘My frst thought would be FRIEND or FOE?’ Either way I’d right away join ‘Flufs’. Eeek: Mum was looking more unimpressed annoyed & said ‘so, we have 2 cats up a tree.. this is pathetic you lot; can you UP the

deep-thinking levels?

‘Treasure’ you’re pragmatic, your turn: ‘What goes through your mind when your human turns on a vacuum cleaner or leaf blower?’ Well?’

‘Treasure’ yowled a bit. ‘Hmmm, easy peasy, I’d maul & scratch the operator most viciously, howl & head up the safety tree.’ Mum gave another scowl. ‘Oh good grief, it seems to me the tree is crowded with rather dumb cats. ‘Pasqualie, YOU ARE on!’ Interruption from ME, Leemo. ‘MUM, enuf of your bird-brain DIC questions: speaking for all of us, we are NOT answering any more.

(‘Pasqualie’ sulked) Gottit? INSTEAD, we’ll address YOU with stuf relating to human thinking. Don’t whinge Mum, too late!’ 1st: ‘tell us what goes on in your tiny mind when, we are resting: you pick us up, hug us too hard & want to snuggle & rub us & say embarrassing stuf like ‘how’s my kitty witty’ & wonder why you get a scratch & hiss? Another one: what goes on in your mind if observe us staring at an ‘empty’ treat bowl & tell us meanly, ‘NUP, next treat is 1 hour away’ & wonder why you get a scratch & hiss? Why do you grumble & carry on ‘cos as cats we roam & run loudly everywhere at 3.27am? Well? It is our feline HABIT, it’s part of our psyche.. we HUNT, & even though the pickings may be slim like a pen, glasses,TV remote, (‘cos we are locked inside) the instinct prevails & provides us with the exhilaration we need.’ Mum looked very cross. The recorder was turned of; Hmm? She spoke crabbily; ‘I ‘spose you all want treats?’ Unanimous happy cat sounds. Well, it’s been a bit of a dismal forum for Mum’s DIC thesis but tomorrow is another day and who knows what lies in it! Nitey, Leemo & Buddies.

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

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

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

Council Rates Still a Mystery

The article on Clarence Valley Council’s rating structure made my blood boil. We have been promised clarity for years, yet confusion continues. Rates should be fair, but how can they be when waterfront owners in Yamba pay double? Kudos to Cr Yager for raising the issue, but I’m worried this “educational tool” will be another shelved report.

— Jan M., Maclean

Leemo’s Midnight Drama Had Me in Stitches Leemo’s tale about the “robbery” in Mum Jane’s room had me laughing out loud. The mental image of him considering a strategic wee on the clothes pile was pure comedy gold. Please never stop publishing these feline escapades — they brighten the paper as much as any news story.

— Judy S., Alstonville

Water Outage Was a Shambles

The Maclean water

outage left my family and the hospital high and dry for hours. The lack of communication was unacceptable. How can council think it’s okay to leave residents in the dark? Emergency protocols must improve.

— Peter D., Townsend

A Timely Reminder About Toughness

The Taking the Heat Nigel Dawe column on page 19 was spot-on. We do need to rethink how we raise resilient people who can handle criticism without crumbling. While no one wants to go back to the harsh punishments of the past, we also can’t keep wrapping everyone in cotton wool. It’s about balance, and this column captured that perfectly.

— John R., Evans Head

Outback Fans Rejoice

The article on the 2026 Subaru Outback on page 31 was excellent! As a long-time Outback owner, I’m thrilled to see Subaru fnally embracing its SUV identity. The Wilderness edition sounds perfect for our Northern Rivers roads. I appreciate the detail in the piece, especially about the towing capacity and upgraded interior tech. Now I’m just counting down until mid-2026 when we can see it in showrooms!

— Chris P., Kyogle

Lighting Upgrade a Big Win for Evans Head

I’m thrilled Stan Payne Oval is fnally getting proper lighting! My kids play touch footy and training in the dark has always been risky. Thank you to the committee for their persistence and to Richie Williamson for securing funds.

— Lisa C., Evans Head

Crackdown on Illegal Camping Overdue

It’s about time Clarence Valley Council looked at illegal camping. We live near Wooli and every weekend the streets turn into a free campsite. Human waste and litter are a real problem. I hope they adopt stronger enforcement like Byron has.

— Sandra R., Wooli

Cooking Page Brings Joy to the Kitchen

The entire cooking page in the latest issue was a delight. Between the Apricot Chicken Rissoles

and the Apple Cinnamon Slice, I couldn’t decide which to make frst! The humour in the instructions (“edible playdough” and “seasoning revenge”) makes cooking feel fun instead of a chore. I also love the realistic tips — like using gloves for chicken mince or enjoying dessert straight from the pan. This page is quickly becoming a favourite in my household.

— Jenny L., Lismore

Flood-Safe Roads

Should Be a Priority

Cr Yager’s motion on alternate routes in foods was common sense. After the 2022 foods, we all saw how vulnerable our region is. Investing in safer roads is cheaper than constant repairs and rescues.

— Brian F., South Grafton

Cairns Deserves

Transparency

The refusal to release the Yamba CAN investigation report makes council look secretive. Cr Cairns is fghting for accountability, and I support her. Ratepayers deserve to know the truth.

— Helen W., Yamba

High School Rebuild

Ofers Hope

Seeing the Richmond River High Campus designs flled me with optimism. Our kids deserve safe, modern facilities. Modular construction to speed things up is a great idea, but I hope the cultural elements promised are more than tokenistic.

— Kylie T., Lismore

Cooking Page Inspires

Even Busy Cooks

I usually dread cooking after work, but the recipes on the cooking page are so approachable and funny that I gave the Apricot Chicken Rissoles a go. They were a hit!

The instructions made me laugh out loud and the end result was better than takeout. Please keep these witty, easy recipes coming.

— Paul H., Casino

400 New Homes a Lifeline for FloodAfected

The SCU land purchase for 400 new homes in Lismore is the best news since the foods. Many families are still in limbo, and this program will

give them a fresh start. Let’s hope it moves fast.

— Matt J., North Lismore

Transport Job Cuts Threaten Our Towns If 950 Transport for NSW jobs go, Grafton will be devastated. We can’t lose these roles to Sydney. I back Richie Williamson’s call to protect regional jobs.

— Sam H., Grafton

Apple Cinnamon Slice Is a New Family Favourite

The Apple Cinnamon Slice recipe on the cooking page was sensational. It reminded me of my Nan’s baking but with a cheeky modern twist. The house smelled amazing while it baked, and it was gone within a day. That line about “calories don’t count when it’s got fruit in it” is now my life motto!

— Stephanie R., Mullumbimby

Men, Try Dragon Boating!

The Wollumbin Dragons’ men-only program sounds fantastic. It’s not easy fnding new mates as an adult. I’m heading to Tumbulgum this Saturday to give it a crack.

— Mark S., Murwillumbah

Battery Recycling Matters

The piece on battery fres was eye-opening. I’ll be taping terminals and dropping mine of at the CRC from now on. Let’s not risk lives or pollute waterways.

— Fiona L., Ballina

Tweed Shows What Resilience Looks Like Tweed Shire regaining food cover is impressive. Moving critical infrastructure to higher ground makes sense. Lismore and other councils could learn from this forward-thinking approach.

— David B., Murwillumbah

Cooking Page Is a MustRead Every Week

The cooking page is the frst thing I fip to each edition. The humour is top-notch, and the recipes actually work! The Apricot Chicken Rissoles were simple and delicious, and my partner loved the sticky glaze. It’s refreshing to see a cooking column that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

— Daniel C., Ballina

Bentley Art Prize Always Delivers Can’t wait for the 40th Bentley Art Prize! It’s a beautiful showcase of our creative community and a testament to volunteers who keep it alive.

— Jean K., Casino

Knitting Group a True Inspiration

The Knit n’ Knat crew warmed my heart. Donating 71 blankets is incredible. They remind us that small acts of kindness make the world better.

— Rachel A., Wardell

Enough Reports, Council Needs Action

I’m tired of endless “reports” and “workshops” from Clarence Valley Council. Rates, illegal camping, food roads—just make decisions and act!

— Tom P., Iluka

Evans Head Lighting Money Well Spent

We sometimes criticise government spending, but this lighting project will improve safety and encourage more kids into sport. Good on all involved.

— Sarah G., Broadwater

Flood Map Idea Is Genius

Cr Yager’s proposal for a public food access map is overdue. Tourists always get trapped because they don’t know local roads.

— Hugh E., Lawrence

Battery Disposal Info Saved Me

I used to chuck batteries in the bin. After reading your article, I realise how dangerous that is. Thank you for the reminder.

— Kelly R., Lennox Head

Community Still Forgotten in Transport Cuts

The Minns Government is city-focused. Losing Transport for NSW jobs in Grafton will hollow us out further. Fight harder, please.

— Paul J., Ulmarra

Bentley Art Prize a Must-See

We travel from Kyogle every year for this event. It’s charming, fun and showcases so much talent. Happy 40th!

— Wendy S., Kyogle

Flood-Hit Roads Still Unfxed

We’re still waiting on repairs from last year’s food in the Richmond Valley. Reading about plans for “future resilience” is frustrating when potholes are swallowing cars now.

— Allan D., Coraki

Wardell Knitters

Deserve Awards

It’s not just blankets they’re giving, it’s dignity and care. Wardell should celebrate these amazing women.

— Betty F., Alstonville

Council Secrecy is Eroding Trust

From rates to Yamba CAN, Clarence Valley Council keeps too much behind closed doors. Ratepayers deserve openness.

— Doug L., Harwood

Dragon Boating for Dads

I’m a single dad and this program could be just the thing to boost my ftness and social life. Thanks for promoting it.

— Neil C., Tweed Heads

Wardell Hall Should Be Used More

The Knit n’ Knat group uses the War Memorial Hall weekly. It’s a perfect community space; why isn’t council doing more events there?

— Grace N., Wardell

Flood Cover in Tweed a Big Relief

It’s nice to read a positive story about council. Tweed’s insurance success shows investment in resilience pays of.

— Leo H., Banora

Point

A Government We Can No Longer Trust

The state of our economy is nothing short of alarming, and the Labor Government under Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has shown time and again that it is out of its depth. Families and businesses are struggling with crippling cost-ofliving pressures, yet instead of delivering meaningful relief, Labor continues to chip away at the few supports we had left. Programs like the Regional Seniors Travel Card and Active Kids vouchers, which made a tangible diference for ordinary Australians, have been axed with barely an explanation. This government seems obsessed with announcements rather than action. Regional communities, in particular, have been left behind. We’ve seen primary producers still waiting for disaster recovery grants, fshers left without fnancial support during biosecurity crises, and infrastructure promises that never seem to move beyond the planning stage. How can we have confdence in a

government that talks about “building a better future” while delivering less for those who need it most?

Mr Albanese needs to understand that leadership requires more than press releases and photo opportunities. It demands foresight, accountability, and the courage to make the hard calls. Right now, we have none of that, and Australians are paying the price.

— J. Martin, Kyogle

Apricot Chicken Rissoles – Midweek Madness in My Kitchen I had to write in about the Apricot Chicken Rissoles recipe from the latest edition because I don’t think I’ve ever laughed so much while cooking. The instructions alone had me in stitches – “mix with clean hands or gloved ones if you’re squeamish”? I was squeamish, but the gloves split mid-mix, and suddenly I was elbowdeep in chicken mince and questioning my life choices.

Then came the sauce. I followed the directions to whisk together apricot nectar, sweet chilli and soy sauce, but half of it ended up on the bench, in my hair, and suspiciously on the dog. Somehow, the rissoles survived my chaos and came out golden, sticky, and smelling like I’d just won MasterChef. We ate them straight out of the pan because, honestly, they didn’t stand a chance of making it to the table. My family is already begging me to make them again, but next time I’ll tie my hair back and keep the dog out of the kitchen.

— K. Wallace, Mullumbimby

Making an efort…

By Nigel Dawe

“WHEN I have tried and failed,” once said the Ancient Greek playwright Sophocles, “I shall have failed.” And arguably no one knew more about the personal efort required to win, or to at least generate your best so as to be able to win in your chosen feld, than he. A contemporary of Aeschylus and Euripides, who were also some of the ancient world’s greatest literary fgures; Sophocles won 24 of the 30 dramatic competitions he entered, fnishing no less than second in the remaining six.

Arguably, Sophocles was good with his words and his understanding of theatre was prodigious, but what elevated him above his peers was the efort he applied to the actual talent he had. Without efort, talent is a prestige vehicle that never leaves the showroom foor, it sits idle, vainly sparkling under the bright lights. As such, the legendary football player and coach, Ron Barassi once said, “Nobody has a right to be proud of their natural talents; we do nothing to earn them; it is only what we make of them that matters… Plenty of people fail, but the only disgrace in failing is if you have only half tried, or three-quarters tried, or 99 percent tried.”

Our modern-day word for ‘efort’ is derived from the Latin term ‘exfortiare’, which basically means ‘to show strength’ (‘ex’ meaning ‘out’, and ‘fortis’ meaning ‘strong’). But to show strength is one thing, to achieve or consciously beat others through an intelligent, focused usage of such strength is quite

another. Being able to harness one’s strength at will is near on the ultimate defnition of peak performance. Relatedly, the British author, James Allen once noted, “In all human afairs there are eforts, and there are results, and the strength of the efort is the measure of the result.”

It might be unjust to suggest that humanity over the last century has become obsessed, albeit marred in some way by a ‘win at all costs’ mentality, as if winning were more important than competing fairly and honestly – win or lose, just being able to say – “I did my best” seems an admission of pure antiquated value. But there is much to be said for giving something your all, and letting that ‘all’ determine the outcome, rather than being fxated on the outcome alone. As Kamal Ravikant once suggested, “If there is one lesson I’ve learned from failure and success, it’s this. I am not the outcome. I am never the result. I am only the efort.”

One of the most wonderful and ftting words for ‘efort’ in any language is the Burmese word for it, which is ‘kyaoehcarraarrhtotemhu’, you can’t say it without having to make the supreme efort of actually saying it. As such, there is nothing about making an efort that is ever easy, or gained by chance in any way, it is always an act of deliberation and pure application. And one ‘knock on’ facet that will remain true until the end of days is Jef Dixon’s observation that, “There is never a trafc jam created from people going that extra mile.”

WILLIAMSON SLAMS MINNS LABOR GOVERNMENT OVER GUT-WRENCHING REGIONAL JOB CUTS

Nationals Member for Clarence, Richie Williamson, has slammed the Minns Labor Government over its latest attack on regional NSW, with another round of public sector job cuts set to hit communities across the Richmond and Clarence Valleys.

This week, the Government confrmed it will slash 165 jobs from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development — the only NSW Government agency solely dedicated to supporting rural and regional communities.

“These are real people with families and deep ties to our local towns. To see the Labor Government once again turn its back on our regions at a time when we need more support — not less — is simply disgraceful,” Mr Williamson said.

Mr Williamson has been advised that a number of local positions within the Clarence electorate are directly under threat, warning of serious consequences for service delivery and regional resilience.

“It’s a slap in the face to an agency that has supported rural and regional communities for decades. These cuts will hit agriculture, biosecurity, regional development, and the Rural Assistance Authority — a vital body for delivering disaster recovery support.”

“In the past year alone, we’ve faced catastrophic foods, ongoing drought, and mounting pressure on food and fbre production. How can this Government justify gutting the very department meant to stand by us during these challenges?”

In another blow, Mr Williamson said reports confrm that 100 jobs will be cut from TAFE NSW — a move expected to impact campuses in Grafton, Maclean, Yamba, and Casino.

“These cuts are part of a dangerous trend. Labor’s axe is falling hard on regional jobs — across education, agriculture, infrastructure, and transport,” he said.

“Transport for NSW is also facing the loss of around 1,250 roles under Labor’s so-called ‘reforms’, further hollowing out frontline services in country communities.”

Mr Williamson is calling on Premier Chris Minns and Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, to front up to the people of the regions and explain how critical services will be delivered with fewer frontline workers on the ground.

This is Labor governing for Newcastle, Sydney and Wollongong — while regional NSW is ignored and left behind. It’s a disgrace.

“This is Labor governing for Newcastle, Sydney and Wollongong — while regional NSW is ignored and left behind. It’s a disgrace.”

“I call on the Minns Labor Government to immediately reverse these gutless cuts and start investing in the people and services that keep regional NSW strong.”

$4 MILLION DOLLAR BOOST

FOR JOBS AND INVESTMENT IN CASINO

Nationals State Member for Clarence Richie Williamson has welcomed a major jobs and investment boost for Casino, with the announcement that McCaughey Group will develop a new cold storage and blast freeze facility in Australia’s beef capital.

The NSW Government will contribute just over $4million towards the project through the Regional Economic Development and Community Investment Program, with McCaughey Group matching the investment — bringing the total project value to more than $8 million.

Mr Williamson said the new facility will become a national distribution hub for the McCaughey Group and will also provide third-party storage and distribution services to support other local businesses in the Northern Rivers.

“This export-accredited facility will open up new domestic and international market opportunities for local producers,” Mr Williamson said.

“It will signifcantly enhance supply chain efciency for agricultural producers, food manufacturers and distributors, improving business viability and encouraging further

reinvestment and job creation in Casino.” CEO of McCaughey Group, Phillip McCaughey, said it’s wonderful news for the company and the entire Northern Rivers region.

“To have this project endorsed and supported by both the NSW Government, including our local State MP, Richie Williamson, and Richmond Valley Council demonstrates their commitment to delivering job security, economic growth and resilience to regional NSW — and I thank them all for that. We look forward to delivering on this project and seeing the benefts it will bring,” Mr McCaughey said.

The development is fully approved, and with government funding now secured, construction is set to move ahead later this year.

Mr Williamson added: “I congratulate the McCaughey Group for their vision and confdence to invest, grow their business, and employ locals right here in Casino. This is great news for our regional economy and a real vote of confdence in the future of Casino as a key player in Australia’s food production and export industries.”

Nationals Member for Clarence, Richie Williamson,

Kicking up your heels in Tyalgum

Samantha Elley

The village of Tyalgum has two big things to celebrate.

Firstly, the opening of their main road from Murwillumbah and secondly, their third Country Music Festival which has been nominated in the 2025 NSW Regional Tourism Awards.

“Floods wiped out the road to Tyalgum in February 2022 and it has been closed,” said Tyalgum Hotel owner and organise of the country festival, Susan MillarEast.

“It only just reopened two weeks ago.

“For a while, you couldn’t come here from Murwillumbah except the back way through Chillingham.”

Ms Millar-East said this is why they started the Country Festival, as a way of reminding people that Tyalgum still existed.

“This year, it starts on the evening of Friday, 22nd August and goes to Sunday, 24th August,”

she said.

“While this is its third year running, it will be the frst year since the road was fxed.”

For this reason, Ms Millar-East is expecting even larger crowds to come and enjoy the music, the mechanical bull, the whip-cracking, the themed craft, line dancing and the smoker barbeque.

“It is free entry,” she said.

“And there are 11 diferent acts over

the weekend with our headliner being Andrew Swift, a golden guitar winner from Tamworth.”

Other artists include Delilah Rose, The Rusty Pickups, Ksea Mudge & The Swagmen, Joe Mackay, Teak Fairfull, Ray Catt Band, Famous Will, Rex Miller and Playing Possum Bush Ban.

This is a weekend for everyone, according to Ms Millar-East.

In past years people have come from as far as

Brisbane.

“There is camp ground accommodation and other various places to stay,” she said.

“We do this to help raise funds each year.

“Last year we raised money for the local school.

“This year we are raising money for the town hall, which is run by volunteers.”

For further information visit www.tyalgumhotel. com or www.facebook. com/tyalgumhotel.

Inclusions:

Inclusions:

 Return Transfers from your home to the Airport

 All Domestic and International Economy Airfares

 20 Nights’ Accommodation incl. 5 Nights Game Lodges

 Breakfast Daily, 15 Dinners, 9 Lunches

 Game drives in open vehicles in Private Game Lodges

 Game drives Chobe National Park and boat safaris on Chobe River

 Guided tour of the Victoria Falls

 Escorted by a Casino Travel Shoppe Staff Member

Travel Dates: 01 May to 21 May 2026

Embark on an unforgettable journey of South Africa boasting diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Chobe in Botswana offers unparalleled wildlife experiences in Botswana's pristine wilderness. Victoria Falls, one of the world's largest waterfalls, provides breathtaking beauty. Together, they offer a quintessential African adventure, merging natural wonders with cultural immersion. Explore, witness, and be transformed. Travel with the African experts with more than 40 years of expertise in arranging travel in Africa for the most memorable experience!

EXPLORE THE MAGIC OF EAST AFRICA 19 DAY FULLY ESCORTED

Inclusions:

 Return Transfers from home to airport (Northern Rivers and southern Queensland)

 All International, Regional and Domestic Airfares in Economy Class

 Explore Amboseli National Park, Serengeti Plains, the Masai Mara and more

 Breakfast and dinner daily PLUS 4 lunches

 Quality Hotel and Lodge Accommodation throughout

 All sightseeing and entrance fees as per itinerary

 All game drives in safari vehicles as per the itinerary

 Escorted by a Casino Travel Shoppe Staff Member

Travel Dates: 22 October to 10 November 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!

and

Times The Northern Rivers Times

ENTERTAINMENT

August

Lilo & Stitch (2025)

A Heartfelt Live-Action Reinvention

Disney’s Lilo & Stitch (2025) is the latest in the studio’s growing list of live-action adaptations, and it may be one of the most emotionally satisfying yet. Directed by Dean Fleischer Camp, the flm honours the beloved 2002 animated classic while updating its themes and visuals for a modern audience. Released globally in May 2025, it has already become a box ofce hit, surpassing US $1 billion worldwide. For Australian families, it delivers a perfect blend of humour, heart, and visual spectacle.

Plot Overview

Set against the backdrop of the Hawaiian islands, the story follows six-year-old Lilo Pelekai (played by newcomer Maia Kealoha), a spirited but lonely girl struggling after the loss of her parents. Living with her older sister and guardian

Nani (Sydney Agudong), Lilo fnds herself out of step with the world around her. When she adopts a strange “dog” from the local pound, she names him Stitch, not realising he is a genetically engineered alien fugitive – Experiment 626 – created for destruction.

Meanwhile, bumbling alien scientist Jumba (Zach Galifanakis) and his nervous partner Pleakley (Billy Magnussen) arrive on Earth to recapture Stitch. As chaos unfolds, Stitch begins to understand the Hawaiian concept of ʻohana, meaning family, and discovers that true belonging is about more than survival.

Cast and Performances

The flm’s casting is one of its strongest assets:

•Maia Kealoha as Lilo gives a remarkable debut performance, perfectly balancing the character’s vulnerability and mischievous streak.

WHO TO CALL IN AN EMERGENCY

Know who to call when you’re in need!

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

7, 2025

•Sydney Agudong as Nani ofers a heartfelt portrayal of a young woman juggling responsibilities far beyond her years, a situation many Australian viewers will relate to.

•Chris Sanders returns as the voice of Stitch, ensuring the alien’s distinctive voice and comedic delivery remains faithful to the original.

•Zach Galifanakis as Jumba and Billy Magnussen as Pleakley provide much of the flm’s comic relief, their chemistry energising every scene they appear in.

•Courtney B. Vance as Cobra Bubbles reimagines the role as a former CIA operative, adding new layers of intrigue.

•Tia Carrere, who voiced Nani in the 2002 flm, makes a welcome return as Mrs. Kekoa, a new character who adds a grounding presence to the community around the Pelekai sisters.

Production and Cultural Details

Filmed on location in Oahu, the movie showcases Hawaii’s stunning landscapes with vibrant cinematography that will resonate with Australians familiar with the beauty of our own tropical regions, such as Far North Queensland. Director Dean Fleischer Camp, acclaimed for Marcel the Shell with Shoes On, blends these liveaction settings with photo-realistic CGI, particularly in bringing Stitch to life.

The screenplay, co-written by Chris Kekaniokalani Bright and Mike Van Waes, respects the original’s emotional depth while introducing fresh plot points. The

soundtrack features Elvis Presley classics and new Hawaiian-inspired compositions that enhance the flm’s cultural authenticity.

Interesting Facts

•Australian connections: Much of the scenery will feel familiar to Australians who love tropical destinations like Cairns and the Whitsundays. Several crew members previously worked on productions flmed in Queensland, further linking the flm to our shores.

•Original voice talent: Chris Sanders, who co-created the original animated Stitch, reprised his role to keep the character’s unique voice intact.

•Tia Carrere’s return: The original voice of Nani now plays Mrs. Kekoa, creating a meaningful link to the 2002 flm.

•Comic-Con reveal: At San Diego ComicCon 2025, Sanders revealed Stitch was originally designed to be green before switching to blue in the fnal design.

•Sequel confrmed: Disney has already announced a follow-up flm, currently scheduled for 2026.

Verdict

Lilo & Stitch (2025) is a visually stunning and emotionally rich live-action adaptation that stands on its own while honouring the original. It’s a flm that will delight long-time fans and newcomers alike, with a story that feels timeless.

Rating: ««««¶ (4.5 out of 5 stars) –A beautifully crafted celebration of ʻohana that Australian audiences will treasure.

Jef Gibbs

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 FACILE

(a) Intended to be amusing

(b) Having to do with the face

(c) Moving with ease

2 LIMPID

(a) Clear or transparent (b) Lacking firmness

(c) Confined within limits

3 RABID

(a) Swift moving

(b) Furious or raging

(c) Troublemaking

4 SALIENT

(a) Producing salt

(b) Of a yellowish sickly hue

(c) Prominent or conspicuous

5 VACILLATE

(a) To deprive of validity

(b) To sway unsteadily

(c) To give variety to

1 Who co-starred with Hugh Grant in the 1999 movie, Notting Hill? (a) Drew Barrymore (b) Andie MacDowell (c) Julia Roberts (d) Renée Zellweger

2 The group of ships that were trapped in the Suez Canal for 8 years were known as the what? (a) Black Fleet (b) Yellow Fleet (c) Red Fleet (d) White Fleet

3 The SSS islands, located in the Lesser Antilles, are part of which country? (a) Denmark (b) Cuba (c) United States (d) Netherlands

4 Puncak Jaya is the highest mountain on which island? (a) Sumatra (b) Borneo (c) New Guinea (d) Java

5 What is Alan Harper’s profession in the TV series, Two and a Half Men? (a) Solicitor (b) Chiropractor (c) Dentist (d) Pharmacist

6 Which of the following words describes someone who is very clever or skillful? (a) Adroit (b) Dilatory (c) Vociferous (d) Antediluvian

WEEKLY CROSSWORD

BEST ON THE BOX

SATURDAY

SELLING HOUSES AUSTRALIA

TEN, 7.30pm

The family home can be a pretty sentimental thing. It’s full of memories (and if you’ve been there for decades, it’s probably also full of clutter). But this is not your ordinary family home. Owners Tony and Wendy split up 18 years ago, but remained living under the same roof so as not to disrupt their children. Now empty nesters, it’s time for the exes to nally go their separate ways, but it’s not proving easy. Their enormous (six bedrooms, four bathrooms, tennis court, etc.) abode has already been on the market for eight months. Can interiors expert Wendy Moore, property guru Andrew Winter and landscaper Dennis Scott (pictured left to right) work their magic and get the sale so that these two can move on?

FRIDAY, August 8

MONDAY

THE VOICE

SEVEN, 7.30pm

Spoiler alert: Ronan Keating (pictured) couldn’t catch a break in Sunday night’s premiere of The Voice Australia veteran of the series, who’s mentored singers in Australian, UK and German versions of the reality juggernaut, the Irish hitmaker begins the second night of Blind Auditions with an empty team. To be fair, his fellow coaches are tough competition: operatic alt-pop powerhouse Kate Miller-Heidke, Spice Girl Melanie C and Grammy Awardwinning superstar Richard Marx have got some serious tricks up their sleeves. Can the smooth-talking star convince tarot reader Milly, piano man Mitchell or former forester Chris to join team Ronan tonight?

WEDNESDAY

GORDON RAMSAY’S SECRET SERVICE

TEN, 7.30pm

Gordon Ramsay (pictured) has been doing his thing long enough that when restaurants see him coming, they try to cover up their failings. So in this new series, he is going undercover to try and gure out what it’s really going on behind the scenes of these struggling eateries. In tonight’s episode, Ramsay is in Phoenix, Arizona, home to Mrs White’s Golden Rule Café – a legendary soul food joint on the verge of destroying the legacy of its founder (now aged 101 and still bossing the about). Breaking in by the back door, Ramsay nds things are pretty grim in the kitchen. It doesn’t get any better as he watches the team via hidden cameras – with White’s son, owner Larry, looking like their biggest problem.

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

(5) NBN (8, 80) 6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Planet America. (R) 10.30 Home Delivery. (R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Bay Of Fires. (Final, Mdlv, R) 1.55 Muster Dogs: Collies And Kelpies. (Final, PG, R) 2.55 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) 3.45 Fake Or Fortune? (PG, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Along Ireland’s Shores. (R) 10.00 Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out. (PG, R) 10.50 Charles I: Downfall Of A King. (PGalv, R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Great Australian Road Trips. (PG, R) 3.00 Nula. 3.45 The Cook Up. (PG, R) 4.15 From Paris To Rome With Bettany Hughes. (PGas, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 Your Money & Your Life.

6.25 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

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

7.30 Gardening Australia. Costa Georgiadis meets a young citizen scientist. 8.30 Patience. (Final, Ma) The police investigate the death of a man on a bus and uncover his history of eco terrorism.

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

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

10.40 ABC Late News.

10.55 Austin. (PG, R)

11.30 Silent Witness. (Mav, R)

12.30 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 The Good Ship Murder. (Mv)

8.25 The Royals: A History Of Scandals: Crime. Suzannah Lipscomb delves into regal history.

9.20 Britain’s Most Luxurious Train Journeys: Settle To Carlisle. (R)

10.15 SBS World News Late.

10.45 Catch Me A Killer. (Premiere, Malv)

11.40 The Shelter. (Ma, R)

1.20 Romulus. (MA15+av, R)

3.10 Curious Traveller. (R)

3.40 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)

4.40 Bamay. (R)

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

6am Morning Programs. 12.30pm Patriot Brains.

6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens.

8.30 MOVIE: The Devil Wears Prada. (2006, PGl, R) An ambitious, naive journalism graduate is forced to make some tough decisions after she is hired as an assistant to the ruthless editor of Runway, one of Manhattan’s leading fashion magazines. Anne Hathaway, Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt.

10.45 To Be Advised.

11.45 Border Security: International. (PGadl, R)

12.15 Touching Evil. (MA15+av)

1.15 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

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

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 23. Canberra Raiders v Manly Sea Eagles. From GIO Stadium, Canberra.

9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Canberra Raiders versus Manly Sea Eagles match, with news and analysis.

10.45 MOVIE: Rambo III. (1988, Mlv, R) Rambo sets out to rescue his former commander. Sylvester Stallone, Richard Crenna.

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

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)

(31) 6am Children’s Programs. 11.30 Wiggle. 11.55 Thomas And Friends. 12.55pm Mecha Builders. 2.05 Paddington. 2.30 Mister Maker Around The World. 3.00 Play School. 4.10 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. 8.05 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.35 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 9.00 Robot Wars. 10.00 Merlin. 10.45 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 Sur ng Aust. 8.30 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family. 10.00 Bewitched. 10.30 Jeannie. 11.00 The West Wing. Noon MOVIE: Wanda And Sully. (2023, M) 2.00 Golden Girls. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 Jeannie. 6.00 Golden Girls. 6.30 Nanny.

9GO! (83) 6am Shin Ultraman. Continued. (2022, PG, Japanese) 8.00 The Fifth Element. (1997, PG) 10.15 Moonfall. (2022, M) 12.35pm Aline. (2020, M, French) 2.55 Goal! 2: Living The Dream. (2007, PG) 5.00 The Movie Show. 5.35 The Final Countdown. (1980, PG) 7.30 Transcendence. (2014, M) 9.40 Gravity. (2013, M) 11.25 Body Melt. (1993, MA15+) 12.55am Limitless. (2011) 2.55 I Know What You Did Last Summer. (1997, MA15+)

6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 7.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. (R) Hosted by Neale Whitaker and Andrew Winter.

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. (Ml, R) Highlights from the recent series.

10.40 10’s Late News. 11.05 10 News+. (R) Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 12.05 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

TARGET TIME

B I P

L E A

S U L

Today’s target: 28 words average 34 words good

40+ 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 Madeline Moore

ARIES (Mar 21 - Apr 19)

Are you procrastinating about which project to pursue? A bored and unengaged Ram is a recipe for trouble. With Saturday’s Full Moon activating your hopes-and-wishes zone, you want to act ASAP, with plenty of energy and enthusiasm. However – with Mercury reversing through your creativity zone – you’ll feel hamstrung in some way. This week is good for reviewing and rehearsing, before you spring into action after August 11, when Mercury finally moves forward.

TAURUS (Apr 20 - May 20)

This week the Full Moon’s stirring up your career zone and Mercury’s reversing through your domestic zone, so the work/life balance will be an extra tricky juggle. Your partner, family members or housemates will certainly let you know if you’re not pulling your weight at home! Be patient with a frustrating loved one. Draw inspiration from fellow Taurean, Audrey Hepburn: “People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed and redeemed.”

GEMINI (May 21 - June 20)

Many Geminis have a wandering gypsy gene. This week your travel zones are activated by the Full Moon and retrograde Mercury, so a trip could be delayed or disrupted in some way. Communicating with others (in person, plus via texting and social media) could also prove to be confusing and frustrating. Things should start to settle down next week, after Mercury moves forward on August 11. Until then, try to be extra patient and double-check everything.

CANCER (June 21 - July 22)

Venus (the love planet) and Jupiter (the confidence planet) are visiting your sign. So – even though Mercury’s reversing through your selfesteem zone – it’s time to be your authentic self! If you don’t accept yourself (warts and all) then why should anyone else? If you don’t develop your talents and follow your dreams, then others won’t do it for you. As actress/producer (and birthday great) Lucille Ball said: “Love yourself first and everything else falls into line.”

LEO (July 23 - Aug 22)

With the Sun (your ruler) and retrograde Mercury both visiting your sign, you’ll go to extremes as the planets press your ‘Let’s overdo everything’ button. So, your motto for the moment is from music icon Mick Jagger (who has four planets in Leo): “Anything worth doing is worth overdoing.”

But resist the temptation to be a right royal bossyboots – especially when you don’t get your way. Rather than being pushy, try being charmingly persuasive instead!

VIRGO (Aug 23 - Sep 22)

Many practical, sensible Virgos are set for a chaotic and challenging week. Mercury is reversing through your solitary zone until August 11 (hey – where did all my friends go?), while Mars, Saturn and Neptune complicate financial matters (hey – where did my savings go?). Clever Virgos will slow down, re-evaluate and reboot. Maximum tolerance will get you a lot further than constant criticising and stressed-out angst. Sunday favours relaxation and rejuvenation.

LIBRA (Sep 23 - Oct 22)

This week Mars (in your sign) opposes Saturn and Neptune (in your partnership zone). If you’re attached, the two of you will be under increased stress due to doubt, illness, money problems or career pressures. Don’t panic! Work on the relationship in a patient and compassionate way. If you are single, don’t expect much from the dating scene this week. If you do connect with someone special, there’ll be plenty of roadblocks before the romance takes off.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 - Nov 21)

Expect professional problems or domestic dramas, as the Full Moon and retro Mercury stir up old grievances. Use your diplomatic talents to help find solutions. However, if you just sit back and let others make decisions, you’ll feel powerless. So, strive to be more self-sufficient, especially at home and work. Getting the ratio right between your public and private lives is challenging, but if anyone can juggle conflicting commitments, it’s a strategic Scorpio!

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 - Dec 21)

Many Archers are restless for adventure. You’re keen to head off on an overseas trip, an interstate holiday, or a weekend getaway. But with Mercury still reversing through your travel zone (until August 11), be careful your fiery, impatient nature doesn’t land you in hot water! Smart Sagittarians will slow down and aim to get the balance right between hasty spontaneity and careful preparation. Saturday’s Full Moon highlights communication and education.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 - Jan 19)

Retrograde Mercury and the Full Moon highlight financial matters, and Saturn (your ruling planet) opposes Mars (in your career zone). Which could push your predilection for criticism and perfectionism to the max, especially at work. Plus, a payment could be delayed or a project postponed. It’s a passing phase so calm down, Capricorn – and don’t take yourself too seriously. With Venus and Jupiter in your relationship zone, call up a friend and have some fun!

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 - Feb 18)

This week there’s a Mars/Uranus trine, a Full Moon in Aquarius, and Mercury’s reversing through your relationship zone. So, you’ll be reliably unpredictable and consistently inconsistent! One half of you wants to snuggle up close with someone special – while the other half longs to be footloose and fancy-free. Try to find the sweet spot between cosy companionship and invigorating independence and resist the urge to be deliberately controversial.

PISCES (Feb 19 - Mar 20)

Mercury is reversing through your daily routine zone, the Full Moon lights up your mystery/ secrets zone and Neptune opposes Mars. So many Fish are set for a frustrating and confusing week. Some possible scenarios? Important phone calls may be missed, diets could be broken, or paperwork goes missing. The best way to handle the ensuing chaos? Slow down … relax … imagine … daydream … meditate … contemplate … ruminate … and escape!

Ballina’s Folded Festival Announces Eliza and the Delusionals as 2025 Headliner

Jef Gibbs

The Healthy Minds Club’s Folded Festival has confrmed that celebrated indie rock trio Eliza and the Delusionals will headline the allages charity event when it returns to Ballina Skatepark on Saturday, 20 September 2025

Originally from Northern New South Wales and Brisbane, Eliza and the Delusionals have built an impressive career, boasting over 17.8 million streams , a triple j Album of the

Year nomination, and a Queensland Music Award win. Their acclaimed second album Make It Feel Like the Garden debuted at #11 on the ARIA Australian Albums Chart and followed soldout Australian tours and performances across the

USA alongside acts like The Front Bottoms.

President of The Healthy Minds Club, Jackson Connellan, said securing the band was a major milestone.

“Our board created Folded three years ago to give young musicians

a platform and a real gig experience,” he said.

“To have Eliza and the Delusionals on board as our 2025 headliner is an absolute dream.”

Now in its third year, Folded will showcase school-aged bands from across Northern NSW, with all remaining performers to be announced in early August. Each young act will also compete for the chance to win a day of professional recording, including mixing and mastering—a unique opportunity to

potentially release their frst single.

The family-friendly festival will run from 12pm to 6pm, ofering not only great live music but also a free barbecue and soft drinks provided by the Ballina Rotary Club. The skate bowl will be open for skaters to join in the fun and add to the vibrant atmosphere.

Connellan highlighted the importance of the festival’s youth focus.

“We know creative outlets are vital for mental wellness. Folded is about

giving kids the chance to feel like rockstars, building their confdence, and sharing their talents with the community,” he said. Folded 2025 is made possible through the support of its generous sponsors: Harvest Estate Byron, Marcon Consultancy, POP’s (Pelicans On Posties) , Cherry Street Sports Club, and Koellner Steel Everyone is invited to attend and enjoy a day of fantastic music, community spirit, and local talent at Ballina Skatepark.

Northern Rivers Entertainment Guide: August 9–16, 2025

The Northern Rivers region of NSW is brimming with cultural, outdoor and familyfriendly activities this August. Between August 9 and 16, locals and visitors alike can enjoy a diverse mix of events, markets and attractions that showcase the region’s vibrant community spirit.

Byron

Writers Festival – August

8–10

The Byron Writers Festival will be the highlight of the week, taking over Bangalow from Friday 8 to Sunday 10 August. This major literary event brings together more than 100 authors, poets, journalists and thinkers for panel discussions, workshops and book signings. Popular themes include Indigenous storytelling, sustainability,

creativity and memoir, with something for all ages. The relaxed setting of Bangalow makes the festival a perfect blend of coastal charm and intellectual conversation.

Markets and

Artisan Fairs

The region’s famed artisan markets are in full swing. The Channon Craft Market on Sunday 10 August is a must-visit, ofering

a colourful selection of handmade jewellery, textiles, woodwork and gourmet foods, all set to a soundtrack of live local music. On Saturday 16 August, the Bellingen Community Market takes centre stage. Held in Bellingen Park, this lively community market features fresh produce, crafts and artisan fare, making it ideal for a weekend browse.

Nature and Outdoor Adventures

The Northern Rivers Rail Trail is a fantastic option for walkers and cyclists throughout the week. This scenic trail currently spans 23 kilometres between Murwillumbah and Mooball and a further 13 kilometres from Casino to Bentley. Along the way, travellers can enjoy rainforest tunnels, glowworm sightings and stunning views of Wollumbin/ Mount Warning. Another year-round attraction is the Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens in the

Byron hinterland. Visitors can explore lush gardens, giant geodes, Tibetaninspired spaces and serene rainforest walks, perfect for a day of relaxation.

Special Events – Saturday 16 August

Saturday 16 August is packed with unique activities. At Rous Mill & District Memorial Hall, the Northern Rivers Community Family Constellations Day ofers a personal development workshop focusing on systemic familyconstellation processes. This experiential event is ideal for those seeking personal growth. For those who prefer a physical challenge, the North Coast Mud Trail kicks of the same day, running through 17 August. This muddy of-road race and obstacle run promises fun, ftness and plenty of laughter for adventure seekers.

Top Tips for the Week

l Book early for popular

Byron Writers Festival sessions, particularly the fnal panels which are often the most insightful.

l Combine a visit to The Channon Craft Market with a scenic drive through hinterland villages such as Nimbin and Bangalow.

l Outdoors enthusiasts should explore the Rail Trail’s glowworm tunnels at dusk for a magical experience.

l Family Constellations Day has limited places, so pre-booking is recommended.

l The Mud Trail is best approached with a sense of humour and old clothes!

From the creative energy of the Byron Writers Festival to bustling community markets, serene gardens and muddy adventures, the Northern Rivers ofers something for everyone this week. Whether you’re browsing artisan stalls, cycling through rainforest trails, or soaking up inspiring stories, the region’s events between August 9 and 16 celebrate its creativity, diversity and community spirit.

Tesla Roadster 2.0: The Supercar of the Future That Refuses to Die

Lightning Performance 0 to 97 km/h in just 1.9 seconds, 1,000km range, and a top speed north of 400 km/h.

Jef Gibbs

For Tesla enthusiasts and performance-car fans alike, the long wait for the second-generation Roadster has been nothing short of excruciating. First unveiled way back in November 2017, the car promised to redefne what an all-electric supercar could be. But multiple postponements—frst from its original 2020 launch window, then to 2022, 2023, and late 2024—have tested even the most loyal Tesla followers.

Now, as we reach mid2025, Tesla has once again confrmed that the Roadster is still in active development, with production expected to fnally begin this year

Tesla Vice President Lars Moravy recently reassured fans that engineering is largely complete. However, he stopped short of confrming an exact launch date—another tantalising wait for a car that has already become the stuf of EV legend.

Lightning Performance, Bold Features

This isn’t just any electric car. The Roadster 2.0 promises physics-defying specs. Tesla claims it can rocket from 0 to 97 km/h in just 1.9 seconds, with the potential to smash the one-second barrier if buyers opt for the rumoured SpaceX cold-gas thruster package

Top speed? Expect to see numbers well over 400 km/h. And thanks to a 200 kWh battery pack, Tesla says the car could deliver a staggering 1,000 km of driving range on a single charge— fgures unheard of in the supercar world.

This performance isn’t only about brute force. Tesla hints at incorporating next-level aerodynamics and possibly active suspension systems, ensuring the Roadster 2.0 isn’t just blisteringly quick in a straight line but razor-sharp through corners.

2025 Nissan Ariya Set for Australian Debut

The Elephant in the Room: Delays

Despite the jaw-dropping promises, Tesla has continued to accept US $50,000 (around $66,500 AUD) deposits for a car that’s yet to reach production. CEO Elon Musk has repeatedly acknowledged that the Roadster isn’t the company’s top priority, with Tesla’s focus frmly on scaling production of high-volume vehicles like the Model Y and Cybertruck , as well as advancing its autonomous driving technology.

This focus shift has left the Roadster in a strange limbo: too spectacular to cancel, yet perpetually pushed back in favour of projects that bring Tesla more immediate returns.

Jef Gibbs

The highly anticipated 2025 Nissan Ariya is fnally coming to Australia, with the launch set for September 2025. The stylish electric crossover will arrive with a fexible range of battery sizes and drivetrains to appeal to a wide spectrum of buyers.

The Ariya lineup will ofer 63 kWh and 87 kWh battery options, with both frontwheel drive (FWD) and dual-motor allwheel drive (e-4ORCE) variants available. Entry-level Engage and Advance models feature the 63 kWh battery, delivering around 160 kW and 300 Nm, with an estimated 385 km range. Moving up, the Advance+ and Evolve+ variants use the larger 87 kWh battery, producing 178 kW and up to 504 km of range

The fagship Evolve+ e-4ORCE AWD ofers serious performance, with 225 kW, 600 Nm, and a 0–100 km/h time of 5.6 seconds, while maintaining a 1,500 kg towing capacity.

Charging speeds are competitive, with 130 kW DC fast charging allowing a 10–80% recharge in around 35 minutes This makes the Ariya a practical option for long-distance travel.

The Dream Lives On

For enthusiasts, the Roadster 2.0 remains the ultimate Tesla halo car—a showcase of the brand’s engineering prowess and a symbol of what’s possible in an electric future. It’s being marketed to deliver sub2second acceleration, a 1,000km range, and a top speed north of 400 km/h.

Yet, without a confrmed timeline, it’s hard not to feel a sense of déjà vu. Will we see it on roads in 2025? Possibly. Will it live up to the hype? If Tesla’s specs are accurate, the Roadster could reset the supercar rulebook entirely.

Until then, enthusiasts will be watching, waiting and hoping that this time, Tesla fnally delivers.

Australian pricing has not yet been confrmed, but estimates place the starting price at around $60,000 AUD, rising to more than $80,000 AUD for top trims. Nissan Australia will announce fnal pricing closer to launch.

Inside, the Ariya ofers a premium feel with a 12.3-inch digital cluster and infotainment display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Wi-Fi connectivity, four USB ports and climate-controlled seating. Cargo space is generous, ofering 415 L with the seats up and up to 468 L with them folded

Safety technology will be a highlight, with features such as ProPILOT Assist 2.0, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot intervention, trafc sign recognition and surround-view cameras standard across the range.

The Ariya gives Australian families a true all-rounder in the EV segment, blending strong performance with everyday usability. With its range fexibility, fast-charging capability and generous equipment levels, Nissan’s new electric crossover is set to be a serious contender when it hits showrooms later in 2025.

At a glance:

l Range: 385 km–504 km WLTP

l Power: 160–225 kW

l Torque: 300–600 Nm

l Fast charging: 130 kW DC (10–80% in ~35 mins)

The Ariya’s arrival is a major milestone for Nissan in Australia, marking its return to the EV crossover space with a premium yet practical ofering.

2025 Nissan Ariya

Tesla Roadster 2.0

CPA Australia Calls for ‘Tell Us Once’ Reform to Boost Small Business Productivity

Australia’s largest accounting body, CPA Australia, has urged the Albanese Government to adopt a “tell us once” compliance model as part of its regulatory reforms, saying the change would cut red tape and drive productivity gains for small businesses.

At the Small Business Roundtable with Small Business Minister Dr Anne Aly, CPA Australia CEO Chris Freeland AM outlined three top priorities for government: reducing regulatory burden, supporting technology investment, and inspiring young Australians to start businesses.

Priority One: Cut Red Tape with a ‘Tell Us Once’ Model

Mr Freeland said a compliance framework allowing businesses to submit information only

once and have it shared across relevant government agencies would signifcantly improve efciency.

“Enabling businesses and individuals to report information once is not only efcient, but would remove a major compliance headache for many small businesses,” Mr Freeland said.

He noted that while the approach would require upfront investment in new systems, it would reduce duplication and

Minns

improve government and business efciency over time. CPA Australia is also calling for an independent National Cabinet Reform Council to oversee an ongoing review process for inefective regulations.

Priority Two: Accelerate Digital Adoption

The second priority focuses on increasing support for small businesses to invest in digital technologies. CPA Australia highlighted Singapore’s success as an

example Australia should follow, combining grants for technology adoption with training and advisory support.

“CPA Australia’s annual Asia-Pacifc Small Business Survey consistently fnds that Australian small businesses adopt technology at slower rates than their regional counterparts, which negatively impacts their performance,” Mr Freeland said.

He added that many small businesses lack the time and resources to implement technologies such as AI, which could drive growth. Singapore’s model, which pairs fnancial assistance with digital literacy initiatives, has led to higher adoption rates and improved outcomes for its SMEs.

Priority Three: Encourage Young Entrepreneurs

CPA Australia’s third priority is a comprehensive

strategy to encourage young Australians to start and grow businesses.

Mr Freeland called for a national campaign promoting the benefts of entrepreneurship, aligned with motivators such as independence, work-life balance and personal passion.

“Australia has a disproportionately low number of young business owners,” he said. “This impacts growth, job creation, innovation and technology adoption in the small business sector.”

To address this, CPA Australia recommends targeted investment in business management training and resources for younger Australians. Programs should focus on overcoming common challenges such as irregular income, cash fow management and customer acquisition.

“Many young Aussies

already have entrepreneurial instincts, sometimes stemming from online content creation,” Mr Freeland said. “Those instincts should be harnessed and encouraged.”

Driving Growth Through Smarter Policy

Mr Freeland thanked Minister Aly for the opportunity to present these recommendations at the roundtable and stressed that reducing red tape and supporting digital investment are critical to revitalising small business productivity and stimulating broader economic growth.

“These reforms would show the government’s commitment to making it easier to do business in Australia,” he said. “With smarter compliance, better use of technology and a focus on the next generation of entrepreneurs, we can unlock the full potential of small business in driving jobs and innovation.”

Labor Government backs key reforms to protect workers from deadly dust diseases

The Minns Labor Government has welcomed the fndings of the Law and Justice Committee’s Review of the Dust Diseases Scheme, which aims to deliver stronger protections and better support for workers afected by deadly dust diseases in New South Wales.

The comprehensive review focused on ensuring fair treatment for those diagnosed, improving support for younger workers, and reducing risks in high-exposure industries such as construction, mining and tunnelling. Key recommendations include:

•Expanded vocational services, personalised career support and jobseeking assistance, even after re-employment.

•Career and educational counselling for younger workers, continuing through retraining.

•Enhanced mental health support for workers and families, integrated into standard claims management.

•Legislative reforms to expand eligible conditions and benefts, and to ensure parity with other states.

•Establishment of an icareconvened working group

to design retraining and education programs.

•Strengthened SafeWork NSW powers to resolve workplace safety disputes. The review also calls for a national dialogue on preserving pension entitlements for dust disease suferers, improved health monitoring accreditation and enhanced lung testing surveillance. The report builds on actions already taken by the Minns

Government, including:

•A domestic ban on engineered stone products from 1 July 2024.

•A $2.5 million silica safety inspector team, issuing prohibition notices where risks are identifed.

•Launch of a state-ofthe-art $2.5 million Lung Health Mobile Clinic providing regional lung health checks.

•Establishment of an Expert Taskforce to address silica

health risks in tunnelling. Minister for Industrial Relations Sophie Cotsis said the recommendations provide a pathway to ensure all workers have access to medical, fnancial and mental health support.

“No worker should face the devastating impact of a dust disease without support,” Ms Cotsis said. The Government will consider all recommendations in full.

Jef Gibbs

Chris Freeland AM, Chief Executive Ofcer, CPA Australia.

Robert Heyward

How state borders are shaping Australian house prices

Australia’s border communities might look identical on the surface, but property markets on either side of a state line often tell very diferent stories. Tax structures, government incentives and planning regulations vary from state to state, creating sharp diferences in home prices and buyer behaviour.

Border towns share much of their daily life – schools, shops, and even sports rivalries – but the price tags attached to homes can diverge dramatically depending on the postcode. Albury and Wodonga: one community, two property markets

The twin cities of Albury (NSW) and Wodonga (Victoria) are a clear example of this trend. Despite being separated only by the Murray River,

the property price gap is signifcant.

New PropTrack data shows Albury’s median house price sits at $902,500, more than $325,000 higher than Wodonga’s $575,000. The diference carries through to the unit market, with median values of $453,500 in Albury and $380,000 in Wodonga.

Rental prices are slightly more balanced, with houses fetching $550 per week in Albury and $500 in Wodonga, while unit

rents hover at $380 and $375 respectively.

Transaction volumes also paint a contrasting picture. Wodonga recorded 385 house sales and 86 unit sales over the past year, far exceeding Albury’s 80 house and 38 unit transactions.

Local agents suggest personal ties infuence decisions as much as economics, with many buyers choosing to stay on the side where they grew up. Wodonga’s afordability and family

focus appeal to owneroccupiers, while Albury tends to attract buyers seeking nightlife and more commercial amenities. Victoria’s comparatively higher land tax and stamp duty may also be steering some buyers north.

Tweed Heads and Coolangatta: lifestyle drives the divide The popular coastal neighbours of Tweed Heads (NSW) and Coolangatta (Queensland) highlight another pronounced gap.

Coolangatta’s median house price is $1,817,500, around $465,000 more than Tweed Heads’ $1,352,500. The disparity extends to the apartment sector, where Coolangatta units average $1,030,000 compared to $870,000 in Tweed Heads. Weekly house rents in Coolangatta sit at $900, slightly higher than Tweed

Heads’ $850.

Coolangatta’s oceanfront position, luxury developments and vibrant surf culture command a premium, while Tweed Heads remains attractive for its relative afordability.

The NSW town is especially popular with frst-home buyers and retirees seeking better value.

Incentives and taxes play a crucial role

State-based concessions and taxes add another layer of complexity for buyers. In Victoria, frsthome buyers are exempt from stamp duty on homes up to $600,000, with discounts available up to $750,000.

NSW provides full exemptions on properties up to $800,000 and concessions on homes valued up to $1 million.

Queensland also ofers

Inflation dip signals RBA poised for August rate cut

Jef Gibbs

Australian households are bracing for a likely interest rate cut in less than two weeks after the latest infation data confrmed a signifcant easing in price pressures. Both monthly and quarterly consumer price index (CPI) fgures were released on Wednesday, with the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) expected to place greater weight on the quarterly data when deciding the cash rate. Trimmed mean infation, the RBA’s preferred measure, is now at its lowest level since December 2021.

Annual infation fell to 2.7% in the June quarter, down from 2.9% in March, placing it frmly within the RBA’s 2–3% target range for the second consecutive quarter. Though slightly above the 2.6% forecast by the bank in May, economists say the results align with expectations.

“It looks consistent with where the RBA thought it would land,” said REA Group executive manager of economics Angus Moore. “This should give the RBA the comfort to move forward.”

Third rate cut on the horizon?

The RBA has already cut rates twice this year but

held steady at 3.85% in July, surprising markets that had widely predicted a reduction. RBA governor Michele Bullock said at the time that the board needed more complete infation data before committing to a further cut.

“This is the information the board lacked in July,” Mr Moore explained. “By confrming infation is tracking lower, it clears the way for the RBA to act at its August meeting.”

Westpac chief economist Luci Ellis agreed, noting that the latest data removes any confict between addressing a softening labour market and responding to infation

risks. Deloitte Access Economics partner Stephen Smith echoed the sentiment, saying the cash rate “remains well above the neutral level” and is constraining economic growth unnecessarily.

A welcome reprieve for borrowers

Financial markets had already been pricing in a 95% chance of a rate cut before the infation fgures were released. That probability is now expected to climb as the 12 August monetary policy meeting approaches.

A reduction would be a welcome relief for mortgage holders and those struggling with cost-of-

living pressures. Many lenders may also move early to lower variable rates in anticipation of the central bank’s decision.

Monthly CPI overhaul

The RBA’s confdence in the data will be strengthened from November when Australia transitions to a more complete monthly CPI measure.

The change follows the board’s admission that it lacked full confdence in the current monthly CPI indicator during its July meeting. Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) statistician David Gruen said the updated approach would deliver better and

stamp duty exemptions for frst-home buyers on existing properties worth up to $800,000. More border markets follow the pattern

Other cross-border communities, such as those along the NSW–ACT and Victoria–South Australia lines, also display signifcant diferences in home values. Although comprehensive data can be harder to obtain in some regions, the trend is consistent.

In the end, factors such as taxes, planning rules, lifestyle amenities and family ties all play a role in shaping property prices. For prospective buyers, even a short move across a border can have a major impact on afordability – and that makes understanding the nuances of each side of the line more important than ever.

more timely insights, bringing Australia in line with other G20 nations.

“The transition will provide better information for monetary and fscal policy decisions that directly afect all Australians,” Mr Gruen said.

All attention now turns to 12 August, when the RBA will announce its next cash rate decision – one that could ease fnancial pressures for millions of households

“If you are thinking of selling, please give Barb Joblin a call”

Infation dip signals RBA poised for August rate cut

Robert Heyward

Aerial view of Tweed Heads - Coolangatta

Grape Expectation by Max Crus

There is a modern maxim that when something is adopted by the parents or grandparents of the original users, its time is over, the kids have moved on and it’s less fun than it used to be...for everyone. Which is sad.

What’s even sadder is when a product or service tries to make itself more appealing to a demographic that it realises has either moved on or was never there in the frst place, but they would like it to be.

Wirra Wirra McLaren Vale Church Block Cabernet

Sauvignon Shiraz Merlot 2022, $18. Imagine if Wirra Wirra changed this name?

There’d be riots at the universities where most of it is drunk, which would be labelled antisemitic. Discounted at $18, it’s just as worthy at full price ($25) and who can resist a bargain. Revisit the staples of your youth to keep them honest. 8.9/10.

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

What’s that rash of idiocy.

Take the ABC for example. Sure it still has Playschool, I think, Bananas, and BTN – is Bluey on there too? –which is all very well but not since GTK and Countdown has the ABC attracted audiences between the ages 15 and 75.

This is a problem for the ABC because lots of people are aged between 15 and 75 and they spend and they vote, so the ABC is worried if they don’t entertain these people,

Chalk Hill McLaren Vale

Fiano 2024, $35 ($25 discounted). Fiano is mainstream now among regular wine types, but 60 percent of people still think it's a woman's name misspelled. Suitably diferent to other whites... and Fionas. 9.3/10.

they will vote Liberal, or worse, National, the ABC will be defunded and handed over to Sky News and Channel Ten and next thing you know we’re all living next to nuclear power plants, watching endless reruns of MAFS and have become American or Israeli Citizens. In an efort to address this tide of indiference, ABC Radio has undergone a rebranding exercise and named many ‘popular’ shows in a

Tomich Hill McLaren

Vale Shiraz 2022, $23 ($16 on special). “A classic shiraz”, says the label, which is true, but it's not brash like much McLaren vale shiraz, indeed it's more restrained. We were the opposite and gobbled it in one go. 9.2/10.

fashion they think will appeal to people they’ve never understood.

“What’s that rash?”, is one such program. No-one is admitting which focus group came up with that rot, but if 15-75s want to know what a rash is, they’ll look it up on Tik Tok or Tinder, and if they want to fx it they will fnd the answer on YouTube right next to how to unlock restrictions on your electric scooter. No-one wants to know about other people’s

Bird In Hand Adelaide Hills Sauvignon Blanc 2025, $22. Who doesn't love a brand-new SB in an imposing, statuesque, dark-green bottle? It has weight in both senses, and the wine is pleasingly restrained accordingly. 9.3/10.

rashes, but ‘The Health Report’ might have some interesting things.

Everyone is obsessed with money these days, as ever, and especially if it’s related to house prices and bitcoin, so why not have a show called “Money”? Well, they did, but someone decided they should call it “The Economy, Stupid.”

Yeah, stupid.

And please don’t mention “What The Duck?”, but since you have, yeah, funny once...

Coriole McLaren Vale Chenin Blanc 2024, $22. Last year's vintage was admired for being a bit softer than a sauv blanc but with still enough punch to make it interesting. This is almost the reverse, quite acidic and less foral. Don't overchill and it lifts enormously. 8.9/10.

but every week?

Just another fve minutes of quite interesting information crammed into an hour of journalistic indulgence with a name that was funny, the frst time.

Lord help us, speaking of which, thankfully, the Religion and Ethics Report is still thus named, but no-one listens to it, and no name change is going to alter that. Get over it, ABC, and call a spade a spade or a rosé by any other name.

Langmeil Barossa Hanging Snakes Shiraz 2023, $22. 'Hanging snakes' was allegedly a cry by an early German settler during heat of vintage. Presumably it's modern equivalent would be unprintable, but imagine a label emblazoned with "FFS"? You’d buy that at least once. 9.2/10.

WHATS ON THE MENU TO NIGHT?

Comfort food just got a glow-up. This pie is like your ex: hot on the outside, soft in the middle, and still full of beef. But unlike your ex, this one won’t ghost you after dinner. It’s wholesome, warming, and wearing a seductive sweet potato hat like it’s auditioning for The Great Aussie Bake Off: Bedroom Edition.

You asked for cheeky. You asked for funny. And oh, darling, you’re about to get a cottage pie so saucy , it should come with a PG rating and a permission slip from your nan.

l Prep 20m

l Cook 1h 10m

l Serves 4

Ingredients

(Serves 4 normal people or 1 hungry gremlin on a rampage)

For the sexy orange hat (aka the mash):

l 800g sweet potato, peeled and chopped like your dignity after bottomless brunch

l 40g butter (because you’re worth it)

l 2 tbsp milk (or oat milk if you’ve read a wellness blog recently)

l A cheeky pinch of nutmeg (optional, but makes you seem mysterious)

For the beefy bits below:

Cotage Pie with Sweet Potato Mash (AKA: Beefy Botoms and Sweet Tops)

l 1 tbsp olive oil – the fancy stuf, not that crusty bottle at the back of the cupboard

l 1 brown onion, chopped (cue the kitchen sobbing montage)

l 1 carrot, diced (don’t skip – it counts as a vegetable, you legend)

l 1 celery stalk, chopped (basically diet perfume)

l 500g beef mince (moo. Or baa if you fancy a shepherd’s pie remix)

l 2 tbsp tomato paste (tomato thiccness)

l 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (pronounced “Wurrrsturrrrr—screw it, that sauce”)

l 2 tsp cornfour (it’s glue for grown-ups)

l 250ml beef stock (liquid drama)

l Salt & pepper (season it like you just found out your ex is dating a DJ)

l Optional: frozen peas, corn, or anything green you feel vaguely guilty about not eating

Salted Caramel Dream Dessert

Oh honey, buckle up. You’re about to enter dessert nirvana with a recipe so sweet, so decadent, so dangerously addictive, it should come with a warning label and its own hotline. Introducing...Salted Caramel Dream Dessert

l Prep 20m

l Makes 16

This isn’t just a dessert — it’s a firtatious, layered bombshell that struts in wearing whipped cream and leaves you crying softly into your empty bowl. With layers of biscuit base, caramel, mousse and ganache, this thing is more stacked than your cousin Tracey after her Brazilian butt lift.

Ingredients

(Feeds 10 people. Or one person going through a

breakup. We don’t judge.)

l 250g Arnott’s Choc Ripple biscuits (or any chocolatey emotional support biscuits)

l 125g butter, melted (salted if you’re spicy)

l 395g can sweetened condensed milk (aka legalised happiness)

l 2 tbsp golden syrup

l 60g butter, extra (because yes, more butter)

l 1 tsp sea salt fakes (firt with favour)

l 600ml thickened cream

Method to the Mashness

Boil the sweet potato until fork-tender – like your last Tinder date. Drain, mash with butter and milk until it’s smooth, luscious, and dangerously edible. Add nutmeg if you're feeling frisky. in a pan. Sauté onion, carrot, and celery until they’re soft, golden, and smelling like your life’s fnally coming together. Add the mince and brown it like you’re on MasterChef with a point to prove.

l Stir in tomato paste, that sauce with the confusing name, cornfour, and stock. Let it simmer until it’s thicker than a reality TV plot twist.

l Chuck in the peas or whatever's hiding in your freezer under a 2019 bag of mystery chips. Stir, taste, and adjust seasoning like the boss you are.

Slap the meat (gently, we’re civilised) into a baking dish. Smother with sweet potato mash like it’s a mud mask and you’re on a self-care journey.

Bake at 200°C for 20 minutes until golden and bubbling like scandal at a family BBQ.

Tips from the Saucy Kitchen Witch

Want crunch? Add cheese on top. Want respect ? Add extra cheese.

l No sweet potatoes? Use pumpkin. Or regular potato. Or lie.

l Freeze portions for sad Wednesdays when all hope is lost (except for pie).

l Pair with wine. Or gin. Or both. You’re a grownup, apparently.

So go on — seduce your tastebuds with this cottage pie. It’s cheeky, it’s beefy, it’s sweet on top... just like you after two vinos and a scroll through dog videos.

your self-restraint

l Chocolate curls to decorate (extra if you're dramatic) Method (a.k.a Dessert Foreplay)

l Crush biscuits like your enemies, mix with melted butter and press into a 20cm dish. Chill until frm and emotionally stable.

l Make caramel by heating condensed milk, golden syrup, and butter until thick and golden. Stir like your life depends on it. Add sea salt and feel fancy. Pour over base. Chill.

l Whip 300ml cream and spread over the caramel. Try not to lick it all. Yet.

l Melt chocolate with remaining cream in a steamy microwave session. Cool slightly, pour over the whipped layer like a chocolate waterfall in a romance novel. Chill again. Decorate with chocolate curls. Or shards. Or just more whipped cream if things are unravelling.

l 200g dark chocolate, chopped like

Tips from the Dessert Diva

l Want extra crunch? Add crushed pretzels on top.

l Serving guests? Don’t. You’ll regret sharing.

l Best served chilled — just like your ex's heart. Go on. Make it. Eat it. Lick the spoon and your feelings. This isn’t just a dessert. It’s a life choice.

What if your story could save someone else’s life?

Regional NSW community called to help improve outcomes for women with gynaecological cancer

Rober Heyward

Every day in Australia, 19 women are diagnosed with gynaecological cancers such as ovarian, uterine/endometrial, cervical, vulvar or vaginal cancer. Tragically, six of these women will lose their lives. For those living in regional NSW, the journey to diagnosis and treatment is often even more challenging, with delays that can have devastating consequences for individuals and their families.

The Australia New Zealand Gynaecological Oncology Group (ANZGOG) is working to change this through its Survivors Teaching Students® (STS) program – a powerful initiative bringing lived experience directly into university classrooms.

Giving future doctors and nurses the knowledge to act sooner

The STS program empowers women who have experienced gynaecological cancer to share their personal stories with medical and nursing students. These real-life experiences help students recognise symptoms earlier, improve communication with patients and provide more compassionate care.

Since its 2017 launch, STS has reached over 20,000 students across 22 universities in Australia and New Zealand.

Each volunteer’s story helps future healthcare professionals reduce delays in diagnosis and improve outcomes for women afected by these cancers.

“Survivors Teaching Students was by far one

of the most memorable and impactful experiences I had during medical school,” said Nikita Rosendahl, medical student at the University of Queensland. “The program not only provided me with important clinical knowledge about

gynaecological cancers but also emphasised the profound and life-altering impacts these diseases have on those diagnosed and their families.”

Calling for volunteers from regional NSW

To expand the program’s reach, ANZGOG is calling

Share the Dignity Calls for Men to Join the Fight to End Period Poverty

Jef Gibbs

This August, Share the Dignity is urging Australians to donate period products during its national Dignity Drive, while also calling on men to take a more active role in tackling period poverty through its new Bro in the Know campaign.

According to the organisation’s 2024 Bloody Big Survey, one in fve women, girls and people who menstruate experience period poverty—an issue that forces many to choose between buying food or the sanitary products they need. Share the Dignity founder and managing director, Rochelle Courtenay, says this is not just a women’s issue.

“We need men to stand beside us, not just in conversation, but in action,” Ms Courtenay said. “Menstruation is not a choice. Whether it’s donating products, sharing our message, or supporting the people they care about, men have a crucial role in achieving menstrual equity.”

How the Dignity Drive Works

In partnership with Woolworths, the Dignity Drive invites shoppers to donate unopened packets of tampons, pads, period underwear and reusable period products at collection points in all Woolworths supermarkets. Loretta Arrastia, Woolworths Supermarkets Community Program Manager, said the response from customers and staf has always been overwhelming.

“There’s always a tremendous amount of passion for the Dignity Drives, with countless team members enthusiastically dressing in pink and hosting events to rally support.

We’re looking forward to another impactful Drive this month,” Ms Arrastia said.

Introducing the Bro in the Know Campaign

To expand its reach, Share the Dignity is launching Bro in the Know, a campaign aimed at engaging male allies and providing education to break down stigma around menstruation. Ms Courtenay highlighted the gap in knowledge, noting that only 35% of respondents to their survey felt confdent in their menstrual education before their frst period.

“Can you imagine what the statistic looks like for

for more volunteers from regional and rural communities, including regional NSW.

“We’re inviting women to be part of this remarkable initiative. Your story could be the one that helps a future doctor or nurse recognise the signs of gynaecological cancer and save a life,” said Alison Evans, CEO of ANZGOG.

No public speaking experience is required –just a willingness to share your story in a safe and supportive environment.

Volunteers often describe their participation as deeply rewarding, giving meaning to their experiences while making a lasting impact for others. How to get involved STS is made possible through ANZGOG’s fundraising arm, WomenCan, and supported by a network

of over 100 community volunteers nationwide. To register your interest or learn more about the program, visit www. anzgog.org.au/sts. If you would like to support STS fnancially, you can make a donation at WomenCan. org.au

About ANZGOG

The Australia New Zealand Gynaecological Oncology Group (ANZGOG) is the peak national research organisation for gynaecological cancers in Australia and New Zealand. Its mission is to improve outcomes and quality of life for those afected through clinical trials and multidisciplinary research. The Survivors Teaching Students program is operated under licence from the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (OCRA) in the USA.

men?” she asked.

Male advocates are already stepping up. Four former Brisbane Grammar School students—Simon Tolhurst, Nick Long, Matt Smith and Shayne Gilbert—now serve on the organisation’s board. Mr Gilbert said:

“No male ever has to think about carrying toilet paper to work or when they go out, so why should women worry about whether they have a tampon?”

Board director Nick Long added, “The more men are educated and stand up for this issue, the faster we can remove stigma and ensure no one is held back because of their period.”

How You Can Help

The August Dignity Drive will run until 31 August, with collection points at Woolworths stores and select businesses nationwide.

For more information and to fnd your nearest collection point, visit sharethedignity.org.au/ dignity-drives By donating and spreading the message, Australians—men and women alike—can help end period poverty for good.

New Cardiac Unit Thrives at Tweed Valley Hospital

Robert Heyward

Tweed Valley Hospital’s Cardiology Unit is quickly becoming a vital service for the Northern Rivers community, having treated more than 1,500 inpatients in its frst year.

The unit, established when the hospital opened in May 2024, provides crucial diagnostic and monitoring services for a wide range of heart conditions. Residents of the Tweed and Byron Shires, who once had to travel outside the region for care, can now access these services closer to home.

Led by Director of Cardiology Dr Martin Sebastian, the specialist team operates 24/7 with registrars and consultants on-call. The unit’s facilities include a new echocardiography service performing up to 200 studies a month, and the hospital’s frst cardiac catheter laboratory, which opened in September 2024. This lab now ofers diagnostic angiography as well as planned

angioplasty and stent implantation procedures.

The unit also runs twice-weekly outpatient cardiology clinics for patients referred by GPs and local cardiologists, and this month launched a multi-disciplinary Heart Failure Clinic to provide early access care for complex cases.

Plans are underway to expand the service further by introducing emergency interventional treatment for heart attack patients and increasing outpatient diagnostic services.

NSW Health Minister Ryan Park praised the service for reducing the need for patients to travel to Queensland or Lismore, while Labor spokesperson for Tweed Emily Suvaal MLC said the unit is meeting the region’s unique health needs.

Dr Sebastian added, “It’s been exciting to build a new cardiac unit from scratch and see it grow into a fagship service for the region.”

Alison Evans, CEO of ANZGOG

Share the Dignity Calls for Men to Join the Fight to End Period Poverty

Northern Rivers

Livestock Exchange

– PRIME CATTLE SALE REPORT WEDNESDAY, 30 JULY 2025

The Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange (NRLX) yarded a total of 1,125 prime cattle this week, with quality across most categories presenting well and strong buyer competition ensuring steady to frm pricing.

Sale Highlights

•Cows & Calves: 2 lots, selling from

Warwick

WARWICK & DISTRICT LIVESTOCK MARKET REPORT – WEEK ENDING 2 AUGUST 2025

This week’s Warwick & District livestock markets experienced mixed conditions as heavy rain early in the week reduced cattle deliveries on Monday. Numbers improved as the weather cleared by mid-week, with sheep and lamb yardings increasing. Pork and poultry categories remained unafected due to housing for most stock.

Cattle Market

A total of 403 head of cattle were yarded, averaging 344.2c/kg and returning an average of $1,293.84 per head. Prices were steady to frm across most categories.

•Bulls: Averaged 304.2c/kg, topping at 330c/kg, with returns from $1,695.51 to $3,003.00

•Cows: Averaged 282.7c/kg, topping at 318.2c/kg, selling from $1,534.74 to $2,056.18

•Feeder heifers: Averaged 299.7c/kg, topping at 355c/kg, making between $1,035.74 and $1,333.86

•Feeder steers: Averaged 379.94c/

Lismore

Cattle Market Report – Lismore Saleyards

CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

$550 to a top of $1,500/head, averaging $1,025/head.

•Steers (head): 3 lots sold at $130/head

By Kilogram

•Bullocks: 26 lots sold 7 head at 299.2–386.2c/kg, averaging 369.8c/kg, with returns between $2,088.40–$2,845.58/ head. Total weight: 15,840 kg, total value: $58,578.93

•Bulls: 32 lots sold 28 head at 170.0–348.2c/kg, averaging 311.2c/ kg, achieving $722–$2,806.04/head . Total weight: 21,220 kg, total value: $66,032.01

kg, topping at 464.2c/kg, returning $1,324.99 to $1,841.00

•Heifers: Averaged 316.4c/kg, topping at 320.2c/kg, from $1,946.28 to $2,283.84

•Steers: Averaged 368.3c/kg, topping at 392.2c/kg, selling for $2,354.19 to $3,036.74

•Vealer heifers: Averaged 345.6c/ kg, topping at 394.2c/kg, $892.19 to $1,369.84

•Vealer steers: Averaged 397.67c/ kg, topping at 438.2c/kg, $848.11 to $1,354.04

•Yearling heifers: Averaged 350.9c/ kg, topping at 402.2c/kg, $938.39 to $1,729.46

•Yearling steers: Averaged 384.1c/ kg, topping at 462.2c/kg, $1,101.80 to $1,868.39

Sheep & Lamb Market

Sheep and lamb numbers rose as Western producers capitalised on frm demand. A total of 1,904 head were presented, with all major exporters active. Prices were frm to dearer across all categories, and the sale yard record for lambs was again broken.

•Lambs: Topped at a new record of $338/head, averaging $225.31 (up $32/ head)

A total of 400 cattle were yarded at Ian Weir & Sons’ Lismore Saleyards on Tuesday, 29 July, with the market showing signifcant improvement and strong competition across all classes of stock. Bulls

Beaudesert

Droughtmaster Cows & Calves Reach $2075 at Beaudesert OFF THE RAILS By Glenn Weir

Bartholomew & Co reported a strong market at Saturday’s Beaudesert Store Sale, with all categories selling much dearer. Fierce competition from both local and travelled buyers drove prices for quality lines of restocker steers,

Bulls reached a top price of $3.10 per kilo , with Mark Gittoe’s Charolais selling for a total of $2,883 Cows

The cow market saw prices lift by 30c to 40c per kilo compared with a fortnight ago. Heavy cows sold from $3.20 to $3.50 per kilo , with Peter Marconi’s Droughtmaster making

heifers, cows and calves.

Droughtmaster cows and calves topped the market at $2075, while PTIC Droughtmaster cows reached $1825 . PTIC Droughtmaster heifers sold for $1600. Charolais x steers (15 months) from Craig and Elizabeth Perkins, Boyland, made $1560, and Santa steers (15 months) from Yawarra Pty Ltd, Nindooinbah, sold for $1530. Angus

•Cows: 418 lots sold 175 head from 106.2–386.2c/kg, averaging 311.4c/ kg, realising $286.74–$2,622/head

. Total weight: 201,080 kg, total value: $626,240.81

•Heifers: 271 lots sold 108 head from 180.0–377.2c/kg, averaging 323.3c/ kg, earning $108–$2,061.92/head . Total weight: 63,635 kg, total value: $205,707.10

•Steers: 357 lots sold 144 head from 150.0–508.2c/kg, averaging 381.3c/kg , returning $187.50–$2,130.81/head . Total weight: 77,825 kg, total value:

•Hoggets: Topped at $245, averaging $203.95 (up $29/head)

•Ram lambs: Topped at $250, averaging $161.22 (down $11/head)

•Ewes: Topped at $236, averaging $171.73 (up $26/head)

•Wethers: Topped at $288, averaging $174.82 (up $23/head)

•Rams: Topped at $161, averaging $149.08 (up $16/head)

•Ewe & lamb units: Averaged $204.29, selling to $210

Highlights:

•Tom & Tracie Cooper: Dorset lambs 62.4kg to Fletchers International for $335, 55kg to Eversons for $274, and 70kg ram lambs to GR Prime for $242

•Russell & Jackie Hughes: Sufolk lambs 53.3kg to Fletchers International for $277

•Simon Mascardri: Dorper lambs 65kg to Fletchers International for $337, 50kg to GR Prime for $256, 42kg to Summerville Meats for $200, and 50kg ram lambs to Warwick Meats for $170

•Bill & Thrish Krautz: Dorper lambs 52.5kg to Fletchers International for $278, 38.3kg to GR Prime for $160

•Michael & Katrina Gibbs: Dorper lambs 44.8kg to McMahon Bros for $248

$3.40 per kilo to return $2,273 Medium cows sold from $2.60 to $3.16 per kilo

Yearlings

Yearling cattle topped at $4.70 per kilo , with the Gowing family’s Angus steer selling for a return of $1,504

Weaner Steers

Good-quality and well-bred weaner steers sold between $4.40 and $4.84 per kilo , while lesser-quality or plainer

x steers (15 months) from Mark and Sandra Downes, Christmas Creek, reached $1500

Other notable results included Charolais x steers (14 months) from John and Donna Mounsey, Moogerah, at $1300 and Charolais x weaner steers from Shane and Leanne O’Reilly, Boonah, at $1270. Droughtmaster weaner steers from Richard and

$296,739.47

•Vealer Bulls: 21 lots sold 8 head at 150.0–358.2c/kg, averaging 300.2c/kg , bringing $217.50–$882.81/head. Total weight: 4,480 kg, total value: $13,451.04

Overall Summary

The sale saw 470 lots presented across all categories, with prices ranging from 106.2c/kg to 508.2c/kg and returns per head from $108.00 to $2,845.58 . The total sale weight was 384,080 kg, generating a total value of $1,266,749.36 Report prepared by NRLX on Wednesday, 30 July 2025.

•Rory & Kathy Frost: Dorper ram lambs 50kg to Warwick Meats for $250, ewes to Eversons for $230

•Gunther Farming: Aussie White lambs 48.9kg to Warwick Meats for $220, 55.7kg hoggets to Eversons for $220

•Linview Ag: Aussie White lambs 43.2kg to Jock Young Meats for $221, 38.2kg to Elders Inglewood for $176

•Ken & Lea Johnston: Wiltipol ewes to Fletchers International for $178

•Nobby Market Farms: Dorper x lambs 45.8kg to Eversons for $216 Pork & Poultry Numbers lifted in the pork section this week:

•Sows: $240–$380

•Boars: $120

•Barrows: $165–$222

•Pork: $187–$370

•Stores: $74–$228

In the poultry market, hens sold to $65, roosters to $25, pullets to $60, ducks to $32.50, drakes to $70, guinea fowl to $42.50, call ducks to $27.50 and Peking ducks to $30.

Overall, the markets remained strong across all categories, with sheep and lambs showing the most signifcant price increases and setting a new saleyard record for lambs.

types made $3.20 to $4.00 per kilo

Heifers

Heifers sold at improved rates, with most making $3.30 to $3.50 per kilo and topping at $3.64 per kilo

Next Sale

The next sale at the Lismore Saleyards will be held in three weeks’ time, on Tuesday, 19 August. Vendors are encouraged to book in any cattle they wish to sell.

Bronwyn Toft, Borallon, made $1020 , while Glenapp Cattle Co sold light Angus weaner steers for $1010

Heifer prices were also strong, with Charolais x (15 months) selling for $1200, Santa heifers (15 months) for $1170, and Murray Grey x for $1090

Charolais weaner heifers reached $1080

The next Beaudesert Store Sale will be held on 23 August at 9.30am

C O N T A C T U S – The Northern Rivers Times Rural Edition 1300 679 787 SALES 02 6662 6222 sales@heartlandmedia.com.au | www.thenorthernriverstimes.com.au Albury – 02 6080 9520, Casino – 02 6662 6222, Dubbo – 02 5858 4078, Grafton – 02 5632 3041, Moree – 02 6794 3889, Tamworth – 02 5719 1656, Wagga Wagga – 02 5940 8516 Directors, co-owners and co-founders: Jeffrey Gibbs and Sharon Bateman ISSN: 2652-7928 a Genesis Media company ABN: 84 134 238 181 All rights reserved © 2025 Distribution Coffs Harbour north to Southport and west to Tenterfield weekly.

2025 Beef Gross Margin Budgets Show Stronger Returns for NSW Producer

The latest beef gross margin budget calculations from the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (NSW DPIRD) show that returns from most beef enterprises have improved since October 2024, driven by rising cattle prices and continued strength in the feedlot sector.

The updated budgets, now available on the NSW DPIRD website, reveal that inland weaner production has increased from $39.79/ DSE to $42.07/DSE , while coastal weaner production on improved

pasture experienced a slight decline from $41.83/ DSE to $38.11/DSE , refecting market and seasonal challenges.

Producers running self-replacing herds to supply feeder steers saw signifcant improvements, with returns rising from $52.14/DSE to $58.76/ DSE. Likewise, margins from growing purchased weaner steers to feedlot weights jumped from $41.41/DSE to $69.46/ DSE, indicating the strong performance of the Australian feedlot sector. Feedlot Expansion Driving Market Confdence NSW DPIRD Beef

Development Ofcer

Todd Andrews said the improved gross margin fgures are a positive sign for most beef producers.

“Despite some cost pressures, the overall uplift in cattle prices, particularly for Angus feeder steers and weaners but also for good cows, has strengthened returns across key beef enterprises,” Mr Andrews said.

“Angus feeder steer prices have increased by around 17% and this has lifted steer weaner prices as producers chase weaners for backgrounding operations. Coastal weaner production is the only enterprise where gross

New Toolkit Helps Farmers Plan for Renewable Energy Projects at End of Life

RE-Alliance has launched a practical new toolkit to help farmers, regional communities, and local councils understand what happens when renewable energy projects approach retirement. The resource outlines the options

available and provides clear, factual information to support informed decision-making.

National Director Andrew Bray said the timing was critical.

“After nearly 40 years, some of the earliest renewable energy projects in Australia are

approaching retirement age,” he said. “More will follow in the coming years, and communities need clarity on how to handle this next chapter.”

Three Options at Project Retirement

The toolkit highlights three possible pathways for projects nearing the

margins have seen a decline.”

Mr Andrews noted that demand for weaner heifers has remained steady, with prices holding frm, while the onset of wet conditions led coastal producers to hold onto stock longer, increasing supply and softening prices for of-type or food-afected animals.

The Australian feedlot sector continues to expand, with a record 1.5 million cattle currently on feed . This growth is driven by both domestic and global demand, particularly as U.S. grainfed beef supply has declined.

“Feedlots are flling an important gap and giving

end of their operational life:

•Refurbishment: Replacing worn components with newer parts to extend project life.

•Repowering: Replacing all equipment with newer, more efcient technology, which could include adding energy storage.

•Decommissioning: Fully dismantling and removing all equipment, followed by rehabilitation of the site as agreed with the landholder.

Mr Bray said that locals want to know what will happen to the infrastructure that becomes part of their landscapes and livelihoods for decades. “This toolkit delivers that certainty,” he said.

Farmers See Value in Clarity

The resource has already been welcomed by farmers who host renewable energy infrastructure.

Tom Gunthorpe, a mixed livestock, cattle,

producers the ability to hedge against seasonal variability,” Mr Andrews said. “Transport costs have stabilised, which is welcome news for trading enterprises, while pasturefnished cattle that meet program requirements can still attract premium prices.”

Outlook Remains Positive

Looking ahead, fertiliser costs remain volatile and have increased since last year, but a strong seasonal outlook into spring could provide favourable trading conditions for producers who can manage input costs and maintain productivity.

and fne wool breeder from Kangiara (NSW) who hosts nine wind turbines, said he and other landholders negotiated a decommissioning fund with their wind farm operator.

“Our decommissioning fund provides peace of mind,” Mr Gunthorpe said. “But with proper maintenance and upgrades, this infrastructure could last 100 years. Leveraging existing projects for the future makes sense rather than starting from scratch.”

In Victoria, ffthgeneration Wimmera Southern Mallee farmer Craig Henderson described the toolkit as invaluable.

“Producers who adapt their strategies and take advantage of premium opportunities, such as crossbred weaner heifers trading at a discount, will be well positioned in the months ahead,” Mr Andrews said.

The full list of 2025 Beef Gross Margin Budgets , including previous years for comparison, is available online at: NSW DPIRD Beef Budgets. These updated budgets serve as a valuable benchmarking tool for producers, helping them plan, forecast and maximise returns in a challenging yet improving market environment.

“There’s a lot of renewable energy development in our region and plenty of confusing information,” he said. “I’d like to see this sitting in newsagents, post ofces and pubs all over the country so people can get the facts.”

A Resource for Regional Communities

RE-Alliance, an independent not-for-proft that has worked with regional communities for more than a decade, created the toolkit in response to growing demand for accurate information.

“As interest in renewables grows, landholders and communities want to plan for what happens at the end of a project’s life,” Mr Bray said. “This resource provides the answers.”

The toolkit, “Refurbishment, repowering or retirement: What happens when renewables approach end of life?”, is available now via the RE-Alliance website and is designed to help regional communities confdently navigate renewable energy project transitions.

Ian Rogers

Ian Rogers 2025 Beef Gross Margin Budgets Show Stronger Returns for NSW Producer

New Toolkit Helps Farmers Plan for Renewable Energy

Quad bike deaths drop but experts call for stronger safety measures

By Ian Rogers

New research shows that workplace quad bike deaths in Australia have fallen slightly since new safety standards were introduced fve years ago. However, public health experts warn that more action is needed to prevent fatalities and

serious injuries on farms and rural properties.

The study, published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health, was led by the University of Sydney’s AgHealth Australia.

Researchers analysed 161 work-related quad bike deaths from 2001 to 2024, fnding an average of seven fatalities per year.

An overwhelming 95% of deaths occurred on farms, with 65% involving rollovers.

Crush and asphyxiation injuries accounted for more than half of the fatalities, while head injuries represented 25%. Australians aged over 50 made up 74% of workplace deaths. New safety standards

show early signs of impact

The research evaluated the early impact of the Australian Consumer Goods (Quad Bike) Standard 2019, which introduced mandatory stability requirements, Operator Protector Devices (OPDs) to reduce crush injuries, and improved safety labelling.

Rolling four-year totals of workplace quad bike deaths peaked in 2016–17 but declined in 2024 following the implementation of the safety standard. Nationally, there was also a small reduction in rollover fatalities.

Victoria showed the strongest improvement, with a signifcant drop in roll-over deaths. This contrasts with New South Wales, which experienced a slight increase.

Queensland also recorded a reduction in fatalities after 2020.

Lessons from Victoria’s proactive approach

Lead author Honorary

Associate Professor Tony Lower said the fndings, while not statistically signifcant, were promising.

“While only preliminary, this research is positive news. It supports the early impacts of the Standard in improving stability and the benefts associated with ftting Operator Protector Devices,” he said.

Professor Lower noted that Victoria’s success may be linked to its comprehensive safety approach, including retroftting older quad bikes with OPDs, mandating helmet use, and stricter enforcement through improvement and prohibition notices.

“This is a model that other states should follow,” he said. “To continue to keep Australians safe at work we need to ensure compliance with the Standard and extend these safety features to older quad bikes.”

Experts call for

stronger enforcement

Adjunct Professor Terry Slevin, CEO of the Public Health Association of Australia, said more robust enforcement was vital if the safety standards were to be efective.

“Quad bikes are a useful tool on rural properties but can be dangerous. Around a thousand serious injuries a year result from quad bike use,” he said.

“Kids under 16 should not be riding them, and older blokes in particular need to take close care when riding. Engineering controls like Operator Protector Devices must be mandatory on all machines.”

Professor Slevin emphasised that most quad bike deaths and injuries were preventable.

“The best farm injury is the one that never happens,” he said. “All states must ensure that quad bike users understand the dangers and that the standards are applied and enforced.”

Lamb and Beef Prices Push NAB Rural Commodity Index Higher

The NAB Rural Commodities Index rose by 2.2% in June , driven primarily by sharp increases in trade lamb and cattle prices , placing the Index 8.6% above its June 2024 level , according to NAB’s July Rural Commodities Wrap. Trade lamb prices surged to a record high of nearly 1200c/kg in mid-July, up from around 800c/kg in late May. Seasonal factors, including the traditional winter supply dip ahead of spring lambing, were compounded by poor seasonal conditions across several production regions. Export demand has also strengthened, particularly from the United States and China.

Cattle prices continued their upward trajectory but remained volatile.

NAB Senior Economist Gerard Burg noted global supply constraints as US production eases, though uncertainty around international trade policy may dampen future demand.

“US reciprocal tarifs are set to commence on 1 August, but the fnal outcome is unclear,” Mr Burg said. “Further tarif increases could tilt risks for the global outlook to the downside.”

Other commodities were softer in June, with dairy, wheat and sugar prices easing while cotton remained stable

The report also highlighted ongoing currency movements. The Australian dollar (AUD) climbed above US 65 cents in late June for the frst time since November 2024 before dipping back in mid-July. NAB expects continued downward pressure on the US dollar, forecasting the AUD will reach US 70 cents by the end of 2025 and US 73 cents by the end of 2026

Coraki Rural & Hardware Supplies Coraki Rural & Coraki Rural & Hardware Supplies

102-104 Queen Elizabeth Drive CORAKI

Following the Reserve Bank’s July decision to hold interest rates, NAB now expects a rate cut in August, with further cuts likely in Q4 2025 and Q1 2026

The NAB Rural Commodities Index is based on the price and production data of 28 commodities and is weighted by their importance to Australia’s agricultural sector.

Report Highlights Reduced Crop Loss and Waste on Australian Horticultural Farms

The average percentage of crop loss or waste per Australian horticultural farm has fallen, according to new data released by the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES)

The report, Crop loss/ waste on Australian horticulture farms 2023–24, reveals that crop loss or waste averaged 20 per cent in 2023–24, down from 25 per cent in 2022–23 when heavy rainfall and fooding signifcantly impacted production. The fndings also show major variation across crop types. Mango farms recorded the highest crop loss at 37 per cent, while pineapple farms reported the lowest at just 8 per cent

Report Highlights Reduced Crop Loss and Waste on Australian

ABARES Executive Director Dr Jared Greenville said external factors, particularly weather events, remained the greatest challenge for producers, contributing to crop loss or waste on 63 per cent of farms

“Agricultural production is inherently risky, and external events outside the control of farm managers are a constant challenge within Australian agriculture,” Dr Greenville said.

Alternative Use and

Recovery Rates Improve

The report noted an encouraging rise in the proportion of crops recovered for alternative uses, increasing from 10 per cent in 2022–23 to 16 per cent in 2023–24. Almonds, macadamias and other nuts led this recovery.

Pre-harvest losses accounted for the majority (58 per cent) of total waste per farm, while 26 per cent was lost during or

after harvest.

Of the crop loss or waste in 2023–24:

•45 per cent was left on the ground

•24 per cent was ploughed back into the ground

•16 per cent was used for compost

•11 per cent was used as animal feed

Labour shortages were cited by only 4 per cent of farms as a cause of loss, down from 7 per cent in 2022–23 and 16 per cent in 2021–22.

The report was commissioned by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water to help fll gaps in data around food loss and waste in the horticulture industry.

To view the full report, visit: https://www. agriculture.gov.au/ abares/research-topics/ surveys/horticulture-croploss-23-24.

Ian Rogers

Ian Rogers

Lamb and Beef Prices Push NAB Rural Commodity Index Higher

Horticultural Farms

When Pressure Replaces Planning on Australian Farms

Every farmer knows the scenario: storm clouds are gathering, machinery is acting up, there’s still a load to fnish, and the kids will be home soon. These pressure-flled moments defne life on the land but can just as easily derail even the best-prepared plans.

As National Farm Safety Week continues, Farmsafe Australia is urging farmers to take a step back and recognise how pressure –particularly during peak seasons – can undermine safety and lead to serious incidents.

“Pressure is part of farming life, but the real danger comes when

that pressure replaces planning,” said Farmsafe Australia Chair Felicity Richards

“We see it time and again: a rushed job, a last-minute decision, a corner cut ‘just this once’. Too often, that’s the moment when something goes seriously wrong.”

Pressure Points Create Risks

In the lead-up to this year’s campaign, many farmers shared stories about times when deadlines, weather, fatigue or simply running behind schedule had compromised decisionmaking. These moments often resulted in near misses or worse.

“Harvest and sowing are the obvious pressure

points,” Richards explained. “But we also see it during shearing runs, cattle work or packing deadlines in horticulture. These are the times when people push through fatigue, skip safety checks or work without a clear plan.”

Richards stressed that the issue isn’t a lack of knowledge. “We know how to do things safely. But when the clock is ticking, or when fnances are tight, it’s easy to prioritise the job over the process. The irony is that rushing often leads to delays caused by injuries, broken gear, or a job needing to be redone.”

Building Safety into the Plan

To address the problem,

Farmsafe’s campaign encourages farmers to integrate safety into their daily plans rather than treat it as an afterthought. Richards said a proactive approach can prevent accidents and reduce stress.

Key tips include:

•Build bufer time: Avoid scheduling work down to the last minute. Allow extra time for weather, equipment breakdowns or stafng issues.

•Quick huddles before high-pressure jobs: Even a fve-minute chat can clarify roles, identify risks and set the right mindset.

•Know your pressure points: Be aware of when you are most likely to cut corners – whether it’s late in the day, before knock-of

Northern Rivers Agricultural Brief

Week ending 30 July 2025

The Northern Rivers received 5–50 millimetres of rainfall in the past week, with heavier falls in elevated hinterland areas. This follow-up moisture has improved soil conditions across the region, supporting winter crops, pastures and

horticulture. Cereal crops such as wheat and barley are now in generally good condition, with improved tillering, while canola is benefting from moisture during fowering and early pod development. Pasture growth has strengthened, easing the need for supplementary feeding.

Forecasts for the coming eight days indicate 10–50 millimetres of rain, which will be vital for late-planted crops and sustaining soil moisture through the grain fll period. Strong pasture growth should continue, enabling producers to build feed reserves ahead of spring.

Livestock condition scores have improved signifcantly as pasture quality lifts. Local saleyards at Casino and Lismore report steady demand and competitive prices:

•Vealer steers: 420–470c/ kg liveweight, driven by restocker activity.

•Feeder steers: 370–410c/

or when contractors are on site.

•Say no to ‘just this once’ thinking: Create a culture where safety is nonnegotiable, no matter how tight the schedule.

•Pause for the plan: A few minutes of preparation can save hours of rework or even prevent a tragedy.

Changing the Culture Richards said it’s vital to shift the mindset that pushing through is a sign of strength. “There’s pride in getting the job done, and we respect that. But part of improving farm safety means recognising when that culture is also a risk.”

She added that pressure isn’t always about seasonal workloads – it can build from mental strain as well.

kg.

•Heavy cows: 320–350c/ kg, buoyed by processor demand.

•Bulls: holding steady at 300–310c/kg.

Demand for young breeding females remains strong as producers rebuild herds. Prices are expected to remain frm, with restocker demand likely to rise if rainfall forecasts hold.

Macadamia orchards remain in strong condition heading into the nut-fll

“Pressure grows when you’re tired, when your team is stretched thin, when you’re juggling family and fnances. That’s why clear planning and shared responsibility are so important. If you’re feeling the pressure, chances are your team is too. Talk about it.”

Finally, Richards encouraged farmers to treat near misses as opportunities to improve. “A near miss is a second chance. But it only matters if we learn from it. If pressure caused you to slip up, plan now so it doesn’t happen again.”

Because on Australian farms, good planning isn’t just about productivity –it’s a lifesaving tool.

stage, while vegetable growers are enjoying healthier plant growth and lower irrigation needs. Banana producers are watching for soil erosion on steeper sites after heavier falls.

The region remains less dependent on Murray–Darling Basin water allocations, though national storage levels are 63% , down 22% on last year, impacting broader irrigation markets.

Ian Rogers

Farmsafe Australia is urging farmers to take a step back and recognise how pressure – particularly during peak seasons – can undermine safety and lead to serious incidents

Ian Rogers

Balcony, Verandah and Pergola Gardens for Northern Rivers Homes

Creating beautiful balcony, verandah, and pergola gardens is a perfect way to make the most of your outdoor space in the Northern Rivers. With our subtropical climate, you can enjoy lush greenery, fowers, and even edible plants year-round. These compact gardens are ideal for homeowners and renters who want to add natural beauty without the commitment of large-scale landscaping.

Choose the Right Plants When designing balcony, verandah, or pergola gardens, plant selection is crucial. Opt for species that thrive in containers and suit your local conditions:

•Tropical foliage: Cordylines, philodendrons, and ferns thrive in shaded verandahs.

•Flowering colour:

Bougainvillea, geraniums, and hibiscus add splashes of bright colour.

•Edibles: Herbs like basil, mint, and parsley do well in pots, while cherry tomatoes and chillies can be grown in hanging baskets.

•Climbers: Jasmine, wisteria, and passionfruit are excellent for pergolas, providing both shade and scent.

Consider Light and Wind

Balcony and verandah spaces often have more exposure to sun and wind than a ground-level garden. Assess whether your space faces north, south, east, or west, and choose plants accordingly. For exposed areas, hardy natives such as lomandra and kangaroo paw are ideal. Pergolas, which ofer partial shade, are perfect for softer foliage like ferns and orchids.

Use Clever Containers Containers are essential for compact gardens. Large pots, trough planters, and vertical garden walls can be arranged for maximum greenery. Self-watering pots are especially useful in the Northern Rivers’ hot summers, helping to maintain consistent moisture. Hanging baskets can create layers of colour without taking up foor space.

Add Structure and Style

For verandahs and pergolas, consider using trellises, screens, or wire frames to encourage climbers and create natural shade. Incorporate lightweight furniture, fairy lights, and outdoor rugs to transform these spaces into inviting retreats.

Timber planters and recycled materials can add rustic charm, while sleek

pots suit a more modern aesthetic.

Maintain for YearRound Appeal Container gardens require more frequent watering and feeding than in-ground gardens. Use quality potting mix with slow-release fertiliser, and supplement with liquid feed during the growing season. Prune regularly to keep plants healthy and compact, and refresh soil every 12–18 months.

Make it Sustainable Balcony, verandah, and pergola gardens can be designed with sustainability in mind. Collect rainwater from your roof, use organic fertilisers, and choose native species to attract pollinators. With thoughtful planning, these small gardens can provide beauty, shade, and even food with minimal environmental impact

Jef Gibbs

Death Notice

Hilton Arthur Standing 26-12-1930 ~ 30-07-2025

Late of Goonellabah, formerly of Byron Bay and The Channon.

Beloved husband of Gabriel (Gay) and father of Stephen (Dec), Michael (Dec), Kerry, David, Sharon and Barry.

Beloved father-in-law, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, brother-in-law and friend.

Will be lovingly remembered by all.

Rest in Peace

immediate start available for the right person to join our team of Bus Drivers. The role includes designated school bus runs as well as coach charters.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

• A current NSW Bus Driver Authority Card

• A minimum MR Class Drivers Licence

• Be willing to complete all screening checks –including medicals, police checks, references and a working with children check

• Sound communicaton and customer service skills

Attractive Hourly Rate of $39.55 per hour for school Runs, work 2 hours in the morning and 2 hours in the afternoon.

Please call 0419 227 488 or forward resume to admin@alstonvillebusservice.com.au

ALSTONVILLE BRANCH OF THE RED CROSS

EAST COAST MOULD SERVICES

Low rates, friendly service

Low rates, friendly service

EXPERIENCED, FULLY INSURED, ALL SIZE JOBS

Lopping

• Lopping • Felling

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.

(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

EXPERIENCED, FULLY INSURED, ALL SIZE JOBS

Lopping

• Removal

For a free quote & advice

For a free quote and advice contact NOEL

P 6688 6136

ALSTONVILLE QUOTA CLUB

For a free quote & advice

Wood Chipping Felling Stump Grinding Removal

• Cherry Picker

Felling Stump Grinding Removal

• Wood Chipping

• Stump Grinding

Wood Chipping Felling Stump Grinding Removal

P 6688 6136

M 0427 886 136

M 0427 886 136

Email: northernriverstreeservice@gmail.com

The Channon covering all areas of the North Coast

Email: northernriverstreeservice@gmail.com

The Channon covering all areas of the North Coast

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

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

COMMUNITY NOTICES

must be emailed to community@ heartlandmedia.com.au before 3pm Fridays Phone numbers only, no email addresses. Get the word out about your Club, Membership, Events, etc

CRAWFORD HOUSE MUSEUM

Visit Crawford House Museum, an original farmhouse where you can see many interesting household objects which reflect family life from the beginning of the 20th century to the 1960s. There are also research facilities for information about Ballina Shire, as well as books about local history and other great merch. for sale. If you’re a support worker and you bring a client to the museum, your admission is free. And if you enjoy meeting and greeting visitors to our lovely part of the world, welcoming visitors to the museum is most rewarding. If you’re interested in joining our team of hosts for three hours a month, email us or drop in to the museum on Fridays. Crawford House Museum is at 10 Wardell Road Alstonville and is open on Fridays between 10am and 4pm and Sundays between 1pm and 4pm or at other times by appointment for groups.

Quilters Alstonville We are called Plateau Quilters Alstonville we meet the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the Month at the RSL Hall Alstonville from 1pm until 4pm New members would be most welcome. Bonner 66298267 Alstonville RSL Alstonville RSL sub-Branch meets on the second Saturday of the month, with morning tea at 10am followed by the meeting, then a light luncheon from 1200. All ex-service persons and families are welcome to attend the lunch.

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. Alston suppliers and ranch have a ‘Lower Deck Luncheon’ at 1200 each Friday, everyone is welcome, we sit out the back of the Hall, order lunch from local suppliers, and have great conversations with good mates. There is always plenty of support & advice on any issue!

BALLINA

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

BALLINA LADIES PROBUS CLUB

The Ballina Ladies Probus Club meets on the first Wednesday of each month at 10:00 am at the Ballina RSL Club. We currently have vacancies and warmly welcome new members and visitors to join us for our meetings, outings, and events – all centred around fun, fellowship, and friendship. At our August meeting, we were joined by Guest Speakers Peter Taylor and James Brownlee from “Medisleep”, who shared valuable insights on Sleep Apnoea awareness and treatment. We are also excited about our trip to the Hare Krishna Farm and Vedic Yoga Sanctuary on Wednesday, 20th August. Nestled in the beautiful foothills of Mount Warning, the day will include a guided tour of the farm, a visit to the temple, a delicious lunch, and a chance to learn about the Vedic lifestyle. For more information about our club or upcoming activities, please contact our President, Jeanette, at 0407 417 470. We look forward to welcoming you to our club!

Ballina Photography Club meets on the first Thursday of the month at Northlakes Community Centre, 1 Mulloway Place, Ballina from 6pm to 9pm.We are currently looking for new members and visitors are always welcome. We are a group of enthusiastic photographers who live in and around Ballina. Members share a common interest in photography and have monthly outings to take photos and share images at meetings. Please contact our President Lyn on 0412 758 697

Ballina Meals on Wheels

Knitting and Crochet for Charity Group run by Ballina Meals on Wheels. Group held Monday mornings in Ballina and open to people who are 65years and older. $5 includes morning tea. Call Kristen on Ph: 0419 679719 for more information.

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A NEW HOBBY???

COME AND JOIN THE HEADLINERS CHORUS

We are an all-female group of all ages who love to sing “Acappella” in 4-part Barbershop harmony. We are well known in the Northern Rivers community and would love you to join us. Come along to a rehearsal on Monday nights from 7pm and for more information see our website or enquire to Tracey Ezzy on 0438 446 809

BALLINA ARTS & CRAFTS CENTRE INC. (BACCI)

We are a diverse group of Artists and Crafters that participate in wonderful group exhibitions. Over 50 members are from all over the Northern Rivers. Meetings are usually on the 1st Tuesday of every month at the Cherry Street Sports Club. Social gathering at 5, for a 5.30 start. Ph: Rosie 0438401716

BALLINA BRIDGE CLUB

Social play every Monday 9am to 11:30am.”. Sessions for all levels of players on Mon, Wed, Sat from 1pm to about 5pm. Be seated at 12:45. Restricted session

BALLINA EVENING VIEW CLUB

Meets on the second Wednesday of each month at the Ballina RSL Club at 6.30 for dinner at 7pmGuests are always welcome. Our members support the education of disadvantaged children in Australia by fundraising activities and social events in our local community for The Smith Family - by sponsoring 5 Learning for Life students. Ph: Julie Stephan 0434988770.

BALLINA FREE COMMUNITY HOT BRUNCH

Ballina Free Community Hot Brunch, First Saturday of each month.

Everyone is invited to come and enjoy a hot brunch of sausages, rissoles bacon & eggs, cereal, tea and co ee. Or just come for a chat. Frozen take away meals available. Held at the Ballina Presbyterian Hall Corner of Cherry & Crane St Ballina 10AM TO 12PM Carol: 0438812235

BALLINA LIGHTHOUSE RSL DAY CLUB

A Day Club for elderly and isolated people in our community, held every Thursday at the Richmond Room Ballina. Enjoy morning tea and a mental stimulation exercise like Tai Chi, followed by lunch and afternoon musical entertainment. Every Thursday 10am to 2pm cost $10 Richmond Room, Regatta Avenue Ballina RSVP Lorraine Fox 66874350, 0439301249

BALLINA SENIOR CITIZENS BRIDGE CLUB

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 10am1pm. Ph. 0411719074.

IN FOCUS TOASTMASTERS CLUB

How about trying something di erent? If you would like to improve your communication and leadership skills or simply make new friends and have fun, you are warmly invited to attend the In Focus Toastmasters Club. We meet the 3rd Wednesday evening of each month. You may attend either from the comfort of your own home via zoom or join us in person at the Cherry Street Sports Club, Ballina.

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, 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 21st 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.

CASINO SENIOR CITIZENS Friday 8th August Morning Tea at the Cecil Hotel at 10.00am. Everyone welcome to come along. On 6th September we will be conducting a bus trip to the Alpaca Farm at Southgate. Morning Tea at the farm and then o to the Lawrence Hotel for lunch. For any enquiries please contact Jan Danaher 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.

ALSTONVILLE

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 @ 10-11am. All Welcome 10am Morning Tea Fellowship. Welcome and Chat 10.30am Praise and Worship

CASINO VIEW CLUB

Monthly luncheon meeting at Casino RSM Club at 11am, second Thurs of every month. Contact Jan on 0418715374

CASINO AA MEETING – ID MEETING is held every Tuesday 12:00-1:30pm At the Casino Baptist Church, corner of West & Canterbury Streets Casino. Newcomers welcome. Contact George 0427 133 372.

CASINO AA WOMEN’S MEETINGS

Held every 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month, 12 –1.30pm at the Casino Baptist Church House, 137 Canterbury St, Casino. Contact Liz 0427133370.

LION’S CLUB CASINO Lion’s Club meeting is held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday each month at Casino RSM Club from 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start. Denise Green 0448014682

LISMORE CASINO NAVAL ASSOCIATION Meets bi-monthly at Casino RSM, new members welcome. Ph: Chris 66293269 or Jim 0427400625.

THE PLATYPUS RSL DAY CLUB operates every Tuesday at the Community Centre from 10am to 2pm. The day consists of gentle exercises, mental stimulation, games, and entertainment. Members are asked to pay $7 for their morning tea and lunch. Transport can be provided within the town limits. If you are feeling socially isolated or just need a day out, please contact Robyn on 66623871. New members are welcome.

Eltham

ELTHAM MASONIC LODGE - The Eltham Masonic Lodge welcomes all masons, to attend their monthly meetings, which are held on the fourth Tuesday, each month at the Eltham Masonic Centre. The meetings commence at 7.30 pm. If you are not a mason and are interested in joining Freemasonry, for more information please visit our website or phone 0416530456

EVANS HEAD

EVANS HEAD SEAGULLS CRAFT & QUILTERS

GROUP Meet every Tuesday 9am-12noonin the Recreation Hall (opposite the Kiosk). We invite you to join us for a relaxing morning of crafting, friendship and sharing ideas. Beginners are very welcome. Finishing UFO’s, Embroidery, Gold Work, Hexagons, & Group Projects are just some of the crafts done.

The Rotary Club of Evans Head

Markets held on the Last Saturday of the month held at Cribb Reserve opposite Illawong Hotel at 8am - 1pm. A vast variety of stores from clothes, candle, Honey Photographs, books, and Organic Vegetables along with Rotary Bacon & Egg Rolls

Rotary Evans

Rotary Evans Head holds meeting the 1st and 3rd Monday of the month 5.30pm at Evans Head RSL downstairs in remembrance room. New members warmly welcomed. Cont. Sue 0438853921

EVANS HEAD CWA BRANCH

meets every third Tuesday for lunch at noon. New members welcome. More info 0419 753 579

EVANS RIVER RSL DAY CLUB

The Evans River RSL Day Club meets each Monday in the Remembrance Room at Club Evans RSL Evans Head from 10am until 2pm Cost $10 includes Morning Tea and Lunch. We have several vacancies for volunteers and members, anyone who is feeling in need of some company are welcome to attend. Come along and join in the fun. Contact Merilyn 0401493316.

GOONELLABAH

TABLE TENNIS AT GOONELLABAH

Tuesday and Thursday mornings social playing: 9am-12noon; Monday and Wednesday nights social playing: 7-9pm; Training Monday mornings: 9am-12noon; Junior coaching after school Wednesday 3.30pm-4.45pm, $6 a session. Everybody is welcome – all levels. Phone centre on 66251602. Mon-Thurs 9.00am-1.00pm

THE PROBUS CLUB of Goonellabah meets on the 3rd Thursday of each month at the Workers Sports Club in Oliver Ave. All welcome. Goonellabah Probus is solely a social club. We have a guest speaker each month and go for outings throughout the year. Meetings on Thursday commence at 10am and finish at midday. For further information, Liz 0451 020 241

GRAFTON

GRAFTON AL-ANON FAMILY GROUP

Grafton Al-Anon Family Group hold their meetings weekly on Tuesdays at 12am - 1.30pm at the Salvation Army Hall, 91-93 Oliver Street, Grafton. Meetings are confidential. The Al-Anon Family Groups are a fellowship of relatives of Alcoholics who share their experience, strength, and hope in order to solve their common problems. We believe alcoholism is a family illness and that changed attitudes can aid recovery. Al-Anon is not allied with any sect, denomination, political entity, organization, or institution; does not engage in any controversy neither endorses nor opposes any cause. There are no dues for membership. Al-Anon is self-supporting through its own voluntary contributions. Al-Anon has but one purpose: to help families of alcoholics. We do this by practicing the Twelve Steps, by welcoming and giving comfort to families of alcoholics and by giving understanding and encouragement to the alcoholic. For further information or to talk to a member in confidence call 1300 252 666

Grafton CWA Centenary in 2026

Grafton CWA will be celebrating its centenary in 2026. We have started putting together a centenary cookbook with some of our favourite recipes and would love to include some recipes from former members and their families- perhaps family recipes that have been passed down for a few generations, with a piece of information or photo. If you have any recipes that you think are suitable, please could you contact Lesley McFarlane ph. 66445442 or Sharron Davison ph 0409363248. Please make sure that they are original recipes. We will also need help from members of the community closer to the time, in order to be able to display information and photos of our 100 years. We would like to have a large display highlighting the contribution made by Grafton CWA branch to the local community, and there is plenty of time to start looking for old photos, old newspaper articles, Grafton CWA

memorabilia or anything at all that could be of interest- we will put out a request for them nearer the date when we should be back in our CWA Rooms and have access to storage. Meetings of Grafton CWA are held on the 2nd Friday of each month at GDSC, starting with morning tea at 9.30am and meeting at 10am. Handicraft mornings are held on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month- 9.30am, at the Salvation Army Hall, Oliver St. Bring along any type of craft and enjoy meeting other people with similar interests.

GRAFTON’S MIGHTY CLARENCE

TOASTMASTERS CLUB

Perhaps it’s time to find out what it’s all about! If you would like to improve your communication and leadership skills. Make new friends and have fun, you are warmly invited to attend the Mighty Clarence Toastmasters Club. We meet on the 1st & 3rd Wednesday evening of each month. You may attend either from the comfort of your own home via zoom or join us in person at the Joan Muir Community Centre: 194 Turf Street, Grafton.

GRAFTON SENIORS BE FIT EXERCISE CLASSES

Every Friday at the Uniting Church, Prince Street. Join us for gentle exercises designed for Seniors. We meet at 10.30a.m. for a cuppa and a chat with the exercises commencing at 11. All equipment is provided and there is no cost to the participants. Further information can be obtained from Chris 0400490691 or Dot on 66423248 or 0477213017

Grafton VIEW Club

Grafton VIEW Club meets on the 4th Tuesday each month at Grafton District Services Club, Mary Street, commencing at 10.30am. Please come along & enjoy yourself with a tasty meal, motivated guest speaker & at the same time you will help disadvantaged children. Please phone Helen at 6642 3867 for catering purposes no later than the Friday before the meeting. As well, a social outing is held each month. You are warmly invited to come along, have some fun & you will be helping others as well. See you there!

CLARENCE RIVER HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Clarence River Historical Society- Schae er House Museum. 190 Fitzroy Street Grafton. 2460. Phone 0266425212.We are welcoming many visitors through the museum, often from interstate and on bus trips, not only to see our wonderful collection of artefacts gathered over 90 years but also to research family history and/or places of interest in the Valley. Research Room hours are from 9 to 3 Tuesday to Thursday and Museum hours are from1 to 4 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Other times can be arranged. Admission is $6 for adults and $3 for children. If you would like to become a member of our Society and receive our interesting newsletters contact the Secretary, Robyn. Membership fees are $27 yearly.

HASTINGS POINT

HASTINGS POINT COMMUNITY CHOIR

Do you enjoy singing. Our repertoire covers a variety of music styles – both unison and part singing We would love you to join us. New members needed. You will be made most welcome When: Tuesday Evenings from 7pm – 8.30pm Where: Tricare Residential Village Community Room Tweed Coast Road, next to Shell Petrol Station. For more information, contact Jean Berry 0414794380

PROBUS CLUB OF HASTINGS POINT - The Probus Club of Hastings Point Tweed Coast meets at Hastings Point Tricare resident’s lounge, on 3rd Tuesday each month, commencing with a guest speaker at 10am. Retirees and seniors are welcome to join this happy social group. Phone the Probus president Di Mills 044 732 5387 for more information.

KINGSCLIFF

KINGSCLIFF 500 CARD CLUB

Kingscli 500 Card Club. Monday and Wednesday afternoons 1pm to 4pm Cudgen Surf Club New players WELCOME Contact: GARY 0499869992

Kingscli Probus Club

First Wednesday of the month, 10am to 12 noon in the function room of Kingscli Bowls Club. We have an interesting guest speaker each month plus bus trips to various points on the map each third Wednesday of the month. Retirees and seniors are most welcome to join us in this happy social group.

Ph Marlene 0428323736

KYOGLE

BORDER RANGES RSL DAY CLUB

The Kyogle Border Ranges RSL Day Club meets each Monday in the Kyogle Seniors Centre, 3 Bloore St, Kyogle, from 10am to 2pm.Cost $10, includes Morning Tea and Lunch. We welcome Volunteers and Members, if you are in need of some Company, you are welcome to attend. Come along and have some fun. Contact Oriel 0427245324.

Kyogle Country Music Association will be holding their next Music Day at WIANGAREE HALL at 11am on 10th August. Fully catered for the famous Wiangarie Store caters for our lunch delivered to Hall. We also have drinks including tea and co ee available all day. All Welcome. Door Donation of $2 at door appreciated

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 12.00 - 1.30 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 6.308:00 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 Become a NEW Member for information call PH: 02 6622 6030 & leave a message with your contact details: Thank you. Mondays: 8.3010.30am 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. Thursday 7th August: 11am - Monthly General Meeting followed by the Annual General 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, lowkey 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 3.30pm5pm at Lismore Children’s Library, second and fourth Friday of the month Explore our excellent LEGO collection. Alternating themed and free-play sessions.The Northern Rivers Lodge No. 77 meets on the 2nd Wednesday of each month (except in January) at the Lismore Masonic Centre, 111 Magellan Street Lismore. We welcome all Masons to an enjoyable and entertaining evening. Inquiries 0412665674

LISMORE CRAFTS & QUILTERS

You are invited to join, LISMORE CRAFTS & QUILTERS. We meet on Mondays at the Lismore Uniting Church, Red Dove, Hall 9.30am - 12.30pm. We do Patchwork, Quilting & all Crafts. We also have night group, who meet at McLean Ridges Hall, Monday evenings, 5.30pm - 9pm. Cost is $30 for the year & $5 each Monday. Looking forward to seeing you. Enquiries to Margaret Boxsell 0427141425

LISMORE LIONS CLUB

Please save your used stamps to raise funds for The Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation. Stamps are collected & forwarded on to be sorted & sold at Auction, to raise money for Children’s Mobility contact Margaret Boxsell on 0427141425

Lismore City Bowling

Lismore City Bowling and Recreation Club Community BINGO every Monday morning 10 am to 12 noon. Morning tea and Progressive Jackpot. All welcome. Phone 66 21 5991.

LISMORE CITY CONCERT BAND

Rehearsals are held during school terms on Mondays, 6.15-7.45pm at Southern Cross University. If you can play a concert band instrument: brass, woodwind, or percussion, please come and join us! All ages welcome. We have some instruments available for loan. Ph: 0432575911

LISMORE MEN & COMMUNITY SHED

President: Mr Bob Greig 0404860504 publicity o icer Don Abrahams 0437576837

Opening Hours: Tuesday & Thursday 9.00am – 3.00pm We are a community based nonprofit organisation. Everybody is welcome: men, women & people with a disability of all ages. We encourage social inclusion. Our aim is to promote the mental, physical & emotional well-being of people in our community. Shed Activities Members work on their own projects, Mentoring is available, General woodworking, Welding & light engineering, Repair & restoration of items for the public Constructing projects, of items for the public Constructing projects for preschools, hospitals & other organisations Assembling flatpack, Minor maintenance work for the elderly & disabled, working with the disabled, talking with other members or simply having company.

Memberships: $40-year Attendance Fee: $3 tea/co ee 15 Industry Drive East Lismore

LISMORE ORCHID SOCIETY INC.

City of Lismore Orchid Society Inc. Meetings are now at the Lismore Show Ground, In Norms Kitchen under the Members Grandstand. Alexandra Parade, North Lismore. NSW 2480 Meeting Date; the first Saturday of the month Meeting Time: 9:30am display plants set up, 10:00am meeting starts with a cuppa after. Contact President Mr. Steven Muldoon 0427789773

Orchid meeting involves the sharing of information, knowledge and friendship. All welcome. Lismore City Bowling and Recreation Club Community BINGO every Monday Morning 10am to 12 noon. Morning tea and Progressive Jackpot. All welcome. Ph 6621 5991

LISMORE SENIOR CITIZENS

Meet at the Goonellabah Community Centre every second Thursday starting at 9am where we have morning tea followed by games bingo how etc we play cards Monday and Friday and play bowls Tuesdays and craft every second Tuesday afternoons come and join our friendly group you will be very welcome.

LISMORE SPINNERS & WEAVERS

Please join us…... Weaving, Spinning, Felting, Dyeing, Knitting, Crochet, Workshops, Chat…. Sharing Craft & Ideas.From 10am, on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Fridays of each month. (Formal business meeting is 10.30-11.30 every 1st Friday) McLeans Ridges Hall Cnr Cowlong and McLeans Ridges Rds. (o Bruxner Hwy) Morning Tea provided. Bring your lunch (and a mug) Contac: Kim: 0423935060, Linda: 0419489987

LISMORE TARGET RIFLE CLUB for .22 calibre rifles, meets Wed nights from 6.00pm (setup time) & the 1st & 3rd Sat of each month from 12.30pm (setup time). Air rifle shooting for .22 & 177 air rifles will also be available at the Saturday shoots. For more information, please phone Derek on 66282082 (ah).

CO-DEPENDANTS ANONYMOUS (CoDA)

Co-Dependants Anonymous is a Twelve Step Fellowship of people whose common purpose is to develop healthy relationships. The only requirement for membership is a desire for healthy relationships.The CoDA meeting in the Lismore area meets on Mondays from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Riverland’s Drug and Alcohol Centre. 75 Hunter Street, Lismore. For further information call 0456178826 or 0408336143

EAST LISMORE BOWLING CLUB

Community Bingo Tuesday night 7.30pm start. 20 games of bingo + progressive jackpot Neilson Street East Lismore. Everyone Welcome

EAST LISMORE SOCIAL TENNIS

Social Tennis is played at East Lismore Tennis Club, Cnr Neilson St & Oakley Avenue every Tuesday from 8am. We invite social players of all abilities to join us, we are a mixed group who enjoy a morning’s tennis without the commitment of competition. Ph: Fay Ross 0412910487. Everyone welcome.

MAINLY MUSIC

Fun, interactive, music sessions for young children [birth to school age] and their parents/ caregivers in a relaxed setting on Tuesdays starting at 9:30am during School Terms. Children will be introduced to music, creativity and more. They will develop gross motor skills, as well as socialise with others in a loving, shared family environment. Morning tea with snacks included. Mainly Music at Lismore Anglican Parish Centre, 10 Zadoc Street, LISMORE. T: 0266213200

PROBUS CLUB OF LISMORE HEIGHTS

Our mixed group meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month at the Lismore Heights Bowling Club in High St. Our brief meeting is followed by morning tea and a guest speaker. Senior’s lunch for $15 at noon is optional. Guests and visitors are welcome. Ring/text Roslyn on 0437606674 for details of our other monthly social gatherings and outings.

ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE NETWORKING

Want to be part of an innovative, interesting, and inclusive networking group who meet fortnightly to share ideas, meet other professionals and work together to make a di erence in your community? Then Rotary Club of Lismore Networking could be the answer for you! Meets on the 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month at 5.30pm at The Civic Hotel (210 Molesworth Street Lismore). Ph: Rita on 0413300578 or Gae 0412742095.

ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE WEST INC

East Lismore Bowling Club each Thursday at 6pm. New members would be made most welcome. Further information available on 0428151934.

ROTARY CLUB OF SUMMERLAND SUNRISE

Interested in contributing to community? Local and international? The Rotary Club of Summerland Sunrise meets every Friday at 7.05am for Breakfast at Red

Dove Café 80 Keen st Lismore. Join us please. Ph: 0435990919

SUMMERLAND AMATEUR RADIO CLUB

Meetings of the club are normally held on the second Sunday of each month at the clubrooms: 412 Richmond Hill Road, Richmond Hill at 1pm. Visitors are welcome. The clubrooms are usually open on Sunday afternoons from about 1pm onwards. We are primarily amateur radio enthusiasts and welcome persons interested in radio, electronics, astronomy, and similar subjects.

SUMMERLAND BONSAI SOCIETY INC.

Come and learn an addictive hobby with us. We provide personal support from experienced teachers as well as demonstrations and Bonsai information.

Club days are held on the second Saturday of every month at 1pm in the Red Dove at Lismore Be inspired about the art of creating little trees. Ph: 0438103601

ZEN and INSIGHT MEDITATION - Lismore Heights INSIGHT (VIPASSANA) MEDITATION and practice:

This mindfulness-based meditation group sits on Wednesdays from 7:00-8:30pm. The evening includes meditation instructions, sitting and walking meditation, Dharma talks and discussion. For further details, please contact Rosie - 0402 682 925. Beginners and experienced meditations are warmly welcomed.

ZEN MEDITATION and practice The Zen meditation group sits on Mondays from 6:30pm8:15pm. 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 1.303.30pm. 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 RIVES MUSTANGS CLUB

If you own a Ford Mustang and would like to become a member of our club or support our monthly drives with other members for more information, contact John 0404 884 192

NORTHERN RIVERS DAY PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

The next meeting of the Northern Rivers Day Prostate Cancer Support Group is to be held on Wednesday August 13th – 10.30am until 1pm at the ALSTONVILLE PLATEAU SPORTS CLUB – DEEGAN DRIVE, ALSTONVILLE - This meeting will be followed by finger food lunch for which numbers will be required by August 6th - MEMBERS PLEASE NOTE CHANGE TO MEETING TIMES FIOR THIS OCCASION ONLY 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 – David Westgate – For Black Dog Institute will deliver (Mind Your Mates) session enquiries phone Bob Corney 0493 075 612

NRCF WOMEN’S GIVING CIRCLE

The Northern Rivers Community Foundation (NRFC) is inviting Northern Rivers women to play an active role in empowering vulnerable women and girls in our region. The newly formed NRFC’s Women’s Giving Circle brings Northern Rivers women together to achieve equality and human rights for women and girls in our region and enable them to realise their full potential. Ph: 0499862886

The NORTHERN RIVERS HASH HOUSE HARRIERS is a non-profit community group that is part of a worldwide organisation. The Hash House Harriers meet every Monday at 6pm for a run/walk from various locations around Lismore, Alstonville, and Ballina. The run/walk lasts for approximately an hour, followed by friendship, banter and grub. We are very friendly and welcome new members.

NORTHERN RIVERS NAVAL & MARINERS ASSOCIATION

This association was formed to attract veterans for companionship, wellbeing and to supply advocacy to veterans. We hold an informal gathering every Friday, 2.30pm at Ballina Angling Club (families are welcome). Ph: Allan Watt: 0402 749 582

ALL AREAS

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS If you’re looking for help to stop drinking, you can reach out to Alcoholics Anonymous 24 hours a day. Our phone line is always answered by someone who’s been where you are – an alcoholic in recovery. We understand the challengers and we know we’re the right people to help you. You can call AA anytime on 1300 22 22 22.

WEATHER

FORECAST

Northern Rivers District:

Mostly sunny. The chance of morning fog inland. Light winds becoming southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h during the afternoon then becoming light during the evening. Large and powerful surf conditions.

Thursday. Cloudy. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the evening. Light winds becoming southerly 15 to 25 km/h during the day then becoming light during the evening.

Northern Tablelands District:

Partly cloudy. Areas of frost and the chance of fog in the morning. Light winds becoming west to southwesterly 15 to 20 km/h during the day then becoming light during the afternoon. Thursday. Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog. Areas of morning frost in the south. Slight chance of a shower on and east of the ranges, most likely in the evening. Light winds

becoming east to southeasterly 15 to 25 km/h during the morning.

New South Wales:

Dry and mostly sunny apart from the chance of a shower along the coast and far south, possibly falling as snow above 1500 metres. Morning frost about the ranges and western slopes. Morning frost possible across the ranges and central and southern inland areas. Daytime temperatures a little above average in the northeast and below average in the far northwest. South to southwesterly winds.

Thursday. Scattered showers developing along the northern half of the coast and ranges. The chance of a shower elsewhere in the east and across the northwestern slopes and plains. The chance of snow on the alpine peaks above 1500 metres. Morning frost and fog patches along the ranges and western slopes and plains. Dry and mostly sunny elsewhere in the west.

Byron Coast: Winds: South to southwesterly 10 to 15 knots tending south to southeasterly during the afternoon. Seas: Around 1 metre. Swell: Southeasterly 2 to 3 metres. Weather: Mostly sunny. Caution: Large and powerful surf conditions. Coffs Coast: Winds: Southwesterly 15 to 20 knots turning southerly during the day. Seas: Around 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore south of Coffs Harbour during the morning. Swell: Southeasterly 2.5 to 3 metres, tending easterly 2 to 2.5 metres during the morning. Weather: Sunny. Caution: Large and powerful surf conditions.

Gold Coast Waters: Winds: Southerly 10 to 15 knots turning southeasterly during the afternoon. Seas: Below 1 metre. Swell: Southeasterly 2 to 3 metres. Weather: Partly cloudy. Caution: Large and powerful surf conditions in the early morning.

New Date for Golf Day

By Samantha Elley

It was a matter of Take Two for the Mid Richmond Education Fund committee when the date for their frst golf day was washed away. The new date is 24th August, 2025 at Woodburn-Evans Head Golf Club with breakfast at 7am and a shotgun start at 8am for a 3 person Ambrose.

The Mid Richmond Education Fund works to provide funding to young people who need a boost to help them along with their career plans.

The golf day and an end-of-year rafe are

their major fundraisers. So dry out your clubs and come have a swing to

help those struggling to reach their dreams. Visit or call the golf

club on 02 6682 2385 to book your team or fnd a place.

WEEKLY SPORTS RESULTS

Ballina Mahjong Results

– 1 August 2025

The Ballina Mahjong players gathered for another wonderful afternoon of friendly competition at the Ballina Bridge Club.

Congratulations to Carol Meyer, who claimed frst place, followed by Vanessa Reynolds in second and Pauline Bolte in third.

The full placings were:

= Carol Meyer

= Vanessa Reynolds

= Pauline Bolte

= Pauline Kearney

= Margaret Bryant

= Barbara Ellan

= Ann Hewitt and Sally Lowry

= Shirley Atkinson

= Ronda Taylor

= Lisa Wong

= Gladys D’Anna

= Joy Lowien

= Lynda Lovett

= Ramsay Roper

= Janene Jarvis

= Jan Small

= Gail McDonagh

= Pam Farrell

= Valda McLerie

= Rosemary Russell

= Linda Lloyd

= Shirley Coleman

= Liana DiStefano

= Cindy Smith

= Cheryl Hurnall

= Kim Higgins

The group continues to welcome new members.

Mahjong is played every Friday at 12:15pm for a 12:30pm start at the Ballina Bridge Club, North Creek Road. For enquiries, phone Shirley on 0423 384 647.

Casino Bowls Results –Wednesday 30 July

Casino Bowls players enjoyed another fantastic day on the greens, with two close games keeping everyone on their toes.

The winning team of the day, decided by the highest margin, was Mary Mead & Denise Grice (sharing the role of swinging lead), Jan Dwyer and Julie Creighton, who defeated Maryanne Chandler & Denise Skinner.

In the other match, J. Jennings, Raelene

Skirrey & Maria Hellyar overcame Graeme Askew, Tanya Maxwell & Helen Lavelle in a competitive game.

Players and newcomers are always welcome to join the fun. Games are held each Wednesday from 9:00am at the RSM Club.

Casino Social Golf

Results – 3 August 2025

It was another fantastic day on the course for Casino Social Golf, with players enjoying great conditions and friendly competition.

Rob Francis claimed the monthly medal with an impressive net score of 30, edging out Paul Day, who fnished runnerup with a score of 33.

The putting trophy was awarded to W. Jackson, who mastered the greens with just 17 putts, while D. Hampson was the lucky winner of the players’ draw.

Nearest to the pin honours went to:

= 8th hole: R. Horseman

= 9th hole: F. Bruni

= 10th, 11th & 17th holes: T. Jenkins

= 12th hole: D. Hampson

= 14th & 16th holes: G. Randall

= 18th hole: G. Shephard

The club extends congratulations to all winners and thanks all members for another enjoyable day of golf. Looking ahead, next Sunday’s event will be a single stableford on the bottom 10 holes, proudly sponsored by Century Batteries Lismore. Teeof is from 6:30am to 7:30am, and visitors are warmly welcome to join the fun.

See you on the course!

Cherry Street Croquet Club Results

Association Croquet:

= T. Hume & P. Hume 17

d Bev Bill & G. Drew 10

= R. Chapman 14 d P.

Waters & L. Turner 8

Ricochet Croquet:

= N. Watts & N. Poynting 10 d P. Bolte &

M. Russell 8

= J. Doust & R. Allen

16 d B. Wellings & N. Barnes 14

= G. Kerr & P. Scott 10 d H. Young & D. Scott 7

= R. Poynting & J. Hannigan 16 d Bev Bill & R. Chapman 15

= J. Dorward & J. Doust 10 d G. Kerr & J. Hannigan 8

= P. Bolte & L. Leuckel 12 d Brenton Bill & N. Poynting 7

= R. Chapman & D. Scott 9 d B. Wellings & N. Watts 9

= Bev Bill & C. Edlund 8

d P. Scott & P. Waters 6

= R. Allen 10 d W. Gilmore & M. Russell 8

The Club also proudly welcomed new members Sue Holland, Arden Peterson and Lance Turner. New members are always encouraged to join in the fun!

Coraki Veterans Golf

Results – Thursday 31 July 2025

Another large feld enjoyed a competitive single stableford event at Coraki. Congratulations to:

= Winner: Bruce McDonald

= 2nd: R. Rodda

= 3rd: W. Lunnon

The free game went to S. Reddell, while chicken/ ball prizes were awarded to:

B. Cramp, M. Stratford, S. Smith, S. Sonego, M. Bruggy, I. Welch, S. Toms, J. O’Brien, D. Bullock, T. Foster, C. Knox, W. Swindle, and L. Newton.

Nearest the pins:

= 3rd/12th: L. Newton

= 6th/15th: D. Watling

The next event is the Monthly Medal for August on Thursday 7 August with an 8:30am shotgun start. Nominate early, grab a cuppa, and enjoy another great day of golf!

Max

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

New Date for Golf Day

Macksville down grity Rebels

By Tim Howard

A spirited but depleted

South Grafton Rebels outft couldn’t hold out a red-hot Macksville Sea Eagles side, who ran away with a 46–20 win at Allan Gillett Oval on Sunday.

Depleted by injuries in key position Rebels welcomed back classy back rower Nick Torrens, who turned out in the unfamiliar number 8 jersey – a refection of the lack of cattle available to the Rebels.

His return helped the visitors stay in the fght for much of the frst half but were eventually overpowered by a Sea Eagles team that combined a sharp kicking game with clinical fnishing.

Macksville hit the scoreboard early, with halfback Rielly Laverty putting barnstorming centre Wyatt Rouse over from close range. Romain Pallares added the extras for a 6–0 lead.

Souths responded with aggression and forced a repeat set, and Macksville’s poor discipline with a dropped ball and high tackle penalty gave the Rebels a chance to hit back.

At the 26th minute mark play swept to the left and powerhouse centre Nick McGrady bounced out of a tackle and went over the line about 10m in from touch.

Fullback Sam Petch nailed the tricky conversion to get the Rebels back on level terms at 6-6.

But Laverty’s superb 40/20 not long after put Macksville back on attack.

Two tackles later, Rouse crashed over for his second try. Pallares couldn’t convert, but Macksville were well on top at 10–6.

Another 40/20 — this time from Pallares — setup a try for centre Clay Saville of a smart Laverty grubber. Pallares nailed

the sideline conversion for a 16–6 scoreline.

McGrady scored his second to keep his team in the game from a superb piece of Rebels ad lib football.

A cross feld chip on the last tackle hit winger Jye Boehme on the chest and he headed downfeld. As the defence closed he kicked ahead and the Rebels chasers kept the ball on the toe into the in goal, where McGrady dived on the ball to score. The second half started much like the frst — with Macksville on the front foot. Laverty again laid on a try with a deft kick into the in-goal, where Wes Brown pounced. Pallares converted to stretch the lead to 22–6.

Despite brave eforts from Rebels forwards Nick Torrens, Jack Pitkin and Rhys Berry, Macksville’s slick ball movement and relentless kicking pressure began to take a toll.

Brown grabbed his second try as the visitors attacked down the right edge, and another fourpointer soon followed, pushing the margin past 20 points.

But Macksville slammed the door shut with two more tries in the fnal 10 minutes — including one to Pallares who capped a strong all-round performance with seven goals plus his try.

Souths scored two second half tries, including the last to

Boehme in the fnal minute of the game and showed plenty grit and the odd fash of brilliance.

But the kicking game of the Macksville halves, Laverty and Pallares was too slick in the wet and slippery conditions.

Next week is the fnal week of Group 2 frst grade footy for the two Grafton teams.

South Grafton host the Cofs Harbour Comets at McKittrisck Park on Saturday and Macksville will take on the Grafton Ghosts at Allan Gillett Oval on Sunday.

The Comets pulled of the surprise of the round at the weekend, knocking of premiers the Nambucca Roosters after Roosters skipper Tyrone Roberts-

And Sawtell also sprang a surprise, routing the

Davis was sent of in the frst half.

competition leaders Woolgoolga 32-10 at the Solitary Island Sportsground.

The Rebels and Macksville battled through tricky wet conditions throughout their match at Macksville on Sunday.

By Tim Howard

The Rebels and Macksville battled through tricky wet conditions throughout their match at Macksville on Sunday.