The Northern Rivers Times News Edition 267

INDEX

Council asked to back call for mining ban in Clarence Catchment

By Tim Howard

The battle to protect the Clarence River catchment from mining will come before Clarence Valley Council this week, as community advocates step up their campaign to safeguard the region’s water supply.

At Thursday’s council meeting, Cr Cristie Yager will move a Notice of Motion calling on council to formally support the Clarence Catchment Alliance and write to the NSW Planning Minister, Paul Scully, urging a ban on mineral exploration and mining within the Clarence drinking water catchment.

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Directors, co-owners

Cr Yager’s motion highlights the “substantial contamination risk” posed by mining at the headwaters of the Clarence River, and warns of the “signifcant social, environmental, economic, cultural and agricultural impacts” if exploration is allowed to continue.

“The Clarence Catchment is not just a water source, it is the lifeblood of our region,” her report states.

“Protecting this vital resource is not optional, it is essential.”

The motion follows growing community concern after exploration activity resumed at Wild Cattle Creek on the Dorrigo Plateau earlier this year.

The catchment supplies drinking water to around

120,000 people across the Clarence Valley, Cofs Harbour and Bellingen regions.

In March, antimony levels above national drinking water standards were twice detected at Shannon Creek Dam, underlining what campaigners describe as the “very real risks” of contamination.

Earlier this month, a Clarence Catchment Alliance delegation travelled to Sydney to present its case directly to state ministers and MPs.

Hosted by local MPs Janelle Safn and Richie Williamson, the delegation met with Planning Minister Paul Scully, Water Minister Rose Jackson, and advisors to Environment Minister Penny Sharpe and Natural Resources Minister Courtney Houssos.

The group delivered a 120-page evidence dossier built over eight years of campaigning, calling for: a ban on mineral exploration and mining across the Clarence Catchment; the cancellation of existing licences and leases; and an amendment to the NSW State Environmental Planning Policy (Resources and Energy) 2021 to prohibit mining in the region.

Their case rested on the catchment’s vulnerability to fooding and erosion, the presence of endangered species such as the eastern freshwater

cod and koala, and the dependence of farming, fshing and tourism industries on clean water. CCA members also pointed to the cultural signifcance of the river system to local First Nations communities, describing the Clarence and its tributaries as “living threads of culture, Country and community.”

Meetings with Greens MPs Cate Faehrmann and Sue Higginson, Shooters, Fishers and Farmers leader Robert Borsak, and NSW Nationals leader Dugald Saunders followed

the ministerial sessions.

While no commitments were made, ministers requested tailored followup briefngs, which the Alliance has since provided.

Thursday’s motion builds on a 2020 council resolution opposing mining in the Clarence catchment.

That position was repeated in a 2022 submission to the draft North Coast Regional Water Strategy, although the state government ultimately rejected calls to cancel mining licences.

With fresh evidence and renewed momentum from its Sydney delegation, the Clarence Catchment Alliance hopes council will again reinforce the region’s united stance. “Securing the Clarence Catchment as a prohibited zone for mineral exploration and mining is a clear, protective step toward safeguarding our water, health and longterm wellbeing,” Cr Yager’s motion concludes. The Notice of Motion will be debated at Thursday’s Clarence Valley Council meeting.

Work to Begin Soon on New Montgomery’s Bridge

Jef Gibbs

Relief is fnally on the horizon for residents west of Montgomerys Bridge, with work on the long-awaited replacement structure set to begin before the end of the year. At its August meeting, Kyogle Council awarded the tender for demolition of the old timber and steel bridge, which has been closed since November 2020 due to safety concerns. Demolition is scheduled to start in early October and be completed by the end of the month, clearing the way for construction of the new

$3.3 million bridge before Christmas.

If all goes to plan, the bridge will reopen to trafc by mid-2026 — ending years of frustration for locals who have faced a detour of an extra 16 kilometres each way since the closure.

Mayor Danielle Mulholland said the milestone was a signifcant win for the community.

“Council acknowledges that the bridge closure has not been easy for Ghinni Ghi and Iron Pot Creek Road residents and we thank them for their patience and

Mayor Danielle Mulholland said the milestone was a significant win for the community.

understanding,” Cr Mulholland said.

The Mayor explained that securing funding had been a long process, with several unsuccessful applications under the Fixing Country Bridges Program before Council fnally won support through the State Government’s Regional

Roads Program in mid2024.

The $12 million grant package will see 12 bridges across the Kyogle region replaced, including Montgomerys Bridge.

“Council is grateful to the State Government for recognising the needs of our communities and providing the funds,” Cr Mulholland said. “We couldn’t do what we do for our communities without funding support from State and Federal Governments. Everyone wins when all levels of government work hand in hand.”

The new Montgomerys

Bridge will be a modern, three-span design, measuring 54 metres in length and fve metres wide. Built on the existing alignment, it will feature reinforced concrete abutments, central piers with concrete bored piles, and a superstructure of concrete planks with an in-situ cast deck. A guard rail system will also be incorporated to meet safety standards.

For residents, the project promises more than just a new bridge — it means a safer, shorter, and muchneeded reconnection to their community.

Clarence MP Richie Williamson with Clarence Catchment Alliance delegate Shae Fleming and other alliance members in Sydney earlier this month to present their dossier to NSW Parliamentarians.

Clunes Master Plan Open for Final Community Feedback

“There is no doubt about the beauty of Clunes, so as more people want to live there, it’s crucial that we protect its rural character,” Cr Krieg said.

Robert Heyward

Lismore City Council is calling on Clunes residents to provide fnal feedback on the draft Clunes Master Plan, which is on public exhibition until Monday, 15 September 2025

The Plan has been developed following extensive technical investigations and signifcant community input, including contributions from the Clunes Master Plan Community Reference Group. Initiated in September 2024, the project aims to preserve the village’s rural charm while providing a framework for sustainable growth over the next 30 years.

Presented to Council on 12 August 2025, the draft outlines a vision, key priorities, and proposed actions to guide Clunes’ future development.

Protecting Village Character

Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg said community feedback is vital to ensure the plan refects local values.

“There is no doubt about the beauty of Clunes, so as more people want to live there, it’s crucial that we protect its rural character,” Cr Krieg said.

Lismore’s Acting Head of Planning and Environment, Jamie van Iersel, encouraged residents to share their views.

“We want to hear from residents about what they value and want preserved, and also what could be improved over the next 30 years,” she said.

“This is our chance to plan for growth that respects Clunes’ identity, ensures infrastructure delivery, and meets the needs of future generations.”

Opportunities to Have Your Say

To make it easier for locals to participate, Council is hosting several opportunities to engage:

l Drop-in sessions at Clunes Coronation Hall

l Thursday, 4 September, 3–6pm

l Saturday, 6 September, 9am–12pm

l Village Park pop-up sessions – every Wednesday during the

consultation period, 8–10am l Online feedback via Council’s Your Say platform

The sessions will feature Council staf from Strategic Planning, Stakeholder Engagement, Water and Sewer, along with a civil engineer, to answer questions and explain the draft. Children and families are also welcome to attend.

Shaping Clunes’ Future

The Clunes Master Plan has been informed by three phases of community engagement, with earlier stages focusing on identifying the values and priorities most important to residents. The fnal Plan will provide a guiding framework for land use, infrastructure and future development, ensuring that Clunes retains its village character while accommodating growth.

Council has confrmed it is not reviewing any rezoning applications while the Plan is being fnalised.

For more information and to provide feedback, visit: yoursay. lismore.nsw.gov.au

Byron Bay Town Centre Drainage Upgrade Set to Commence in September

Robert Heyward

Work on the long-awaited upgrade to Byron Bay’s town centre drainage system will begin in September, aimed at reducing fooding impacts for residents and businesses across central Byron Bay.

Manager of Assets & Major Projects, Christopher Soulsby, said the project would deliver signifcant benefts.

“We are excited to be making upgrades to the Byron Bay town centre drainage, as we know this will make a big diference to a lot of people,” Mr Soulsby said.

“Not only will we see a reduction in the impacts of fooding, we’ll also see improvements to footpaths on large sections of Byron Street.”

While the major works will focus on Byron Street, construction will cause temporary disruptions for pedestrians and trafc. Council is urging locals and visitors to follow detours, obey trafc control, and sign up for email updates via the project webpage to stay informed of upcoming works and impacts.

Mr Soulsby said extensive consultation had been carried out with directly afected businesses

over the past 12 months, with dust and noise impacts to be minimised using construction hoarding and other measures.

The drainage upgrade follows the near completion of the Sandhills Wetland project and the recent Lawson Street (East) works, which are already delivering improved food resilience.

The Byron Bay Drainage Strategy, which incorporates the town centre works, has secured almost $26 million in funding from all levels of government, including:

l $13 million from the Australian Government through the Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program and Preparing Australian Communities Program

l $7 million from the jointly funded Australian and NSW Governments Infrastructure Betterment Fund under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements Council is still seeking additional funding to complete future stages, including upgrades to Fletcher Street.

For more information or to sign up for project updates, visit: www.byron.nsw.gov.au/ByronDrainage

Celebrating 40 years of history keeping

By Samantha Elley

When roads were rough and the river ruled, Coraki was an important hub for boat building and cedar getting, in the early days of the town.

“History is big for Coraki,” said Gay Mitchell, president of the MidRichmond Historical Society.

“This little town was a thriving place with shipbuilding and cedar getting.”

Last Saturday the MidRichmond Historical Society celebrated 40 years of keeping the history of Coraki and surrounding areas alive and many people turned up to tour the museum and enjoy the car show and shine on a

gorgeous winter’s day.

There were 65 classic cars on display with 13 coming from the Newcastle and District Vintage Classic Car Club alone.

“(Coraki) was one of the biggest river ports in this

area,” said Ms Mitchell.

“The population sustained a cordial factory, a knitting factory and a (butter factory).”

Ms Mitchell said the society houses tools that were used on farms, old

Putting Aussies to the Test: New Online Tool Challenges Road Safety Knowledge

How much does rain afect stopping distances?

How much space should you leave when merging in front of a truck? And how much more dangerous is a crash at 90km/h compared to 80km/h?

These are some of the questions being posed as Transport for NSW launches the Road Safety Learning Lab, a new online tool unveiled during Road Rules Awareness Week, beginning 18 August

The interactive platform is the frst of its kind in Australia, designed for all road users aged 16 and over. It uses crash data, real-world testing and personal stories to highlight the consequences of risky behaviour on the road.

Bernard Carlon, Chief of the Centre for Road and Maritime Safety, said the resource is aimed at challenging complacency.

“It’s easy to assume you know everything about driving, riding, or getting around safely on foot. But the Road Safety Learning Lab challenges those assumptions with real data and insights,” he said. Real Data, Real Lessons

The Learning Lab features:

Crash test simulations using data from Transport’s Crashlab and Future Mobility Testing and Research Centre

Interactive quizzes to test knowledge

How-to videos and guides for safer road use

Personal stories from people afected by road

trauma

Focus groups of everyday road users shaped the site’s content, describing it as “confronting but necessary” and a “wakeup call.”

A Timely Reminder

By mid-2025, 30 more lives had been lost on NSW roads compared to the same period in 2024. Authorities say this underlines the importance of revisiting the basics of road safety.

“This resource isn’t just for learner drivers – it’s for anyone who uses the road. Everyone has something to learn, and that knowledge could save a life,” Mr Carlon said.

The Road Safety Learning Lab is now live on the Transport for NSW website.

newspapers, photos and honour boards.

“Families donate items they don’t want to keep but don’t want to throw them out either,” said Ms Mitchell.

“We are getting to a size now that we have to be selective in what we keep.”

The Mid-Richmond Historical Society started on 10th June, 1985 and will continue to keep the history of the area for as long as there are people who are willing to help keep history alive.

People can visit and tour the museum inside and outside to see the relics of the past on Wednesdays 10am-3pm and Saturday 10am-3pm.

Members who would like to join the society are always welcome and can contact Ms Mitchell on 0486 205804 or 0447 055974.

Rumble Strips to Boost Safety on Pacific Highway

Safer journeys are coming to northern NSW, with work starting next week to install Audio Tactile Line Marking (ATLM) on the Pacifc Highway from Harwood to Tweed Heads.

Also known as rumble strips, ATLM alerts drivers when their vehicle veers from its lane, helping prevent head-on and runof-road crashes. The NSW Government is investing $3.436 million in the upgrade as part of the $46 million Saving Lives Accelerated Program Transport for NSW ED Partnerships &

Integration North Greg Collins said the system is highly efective in reducing accidents.

“The rumble strips make a noise to alert the driver to take corrective action. They’re especially useful at night or in bad weather and can cut crash rates by 15–25 per cent,” he said.

The project will see 300 kilometres of rumble strips installed over 96 kilometres of road on the dual carriageway. Crews will work Monday to Saturday, 6am–6pm, with some night work from 8pm–4am. The

upgrade is scheduled for completion by 19 December 2025, weather permitting. Lane closures and a reduced 40km/h speed limit will be in place during works. ATLM installation is already underway on two other Pacifc Highway sections – Karuah to Frederickton and Colombatti to Maclean –and is due for completion in early November 2025. Mr Collins said these improvements form part of a broader strategy to save lives and reduce injuries on NSW roads.

History is big for Coraki,” said Gay Mitchell, president of the Mid-Richmond Historical Society.

Hailstorm blankets Grafton, damages library, roofs and cars

By Tim Howard

Grafton was transformed into a winter wonderland of ice on Wednesday afternoon when a sudden hailstorm swept across the city, leaving streets, parks, and rooftops coated in white and causing extensive damage to public and private property.

The hail fell so thick it looked like snow had settled over the Clarence Valley’s main centre — an unusual sight for August.

The Bureau of Meteorology described the event as rare but not unprecedented for winter.

“It wasn’t the largest hail I’ve ever seen, but it was certainly the greatest volume of hail I’ve ever seen,” said Grafton

resident Stuart Murphy, who flmed the storm’s approach with his drone.

“It felt like a summer storm in winter — like a mixing of the seasons.”

One of the worsthit buildings was the Grafton Library, which was evacuated after hail punched multiple holes in the roof.

Mayor Ray Smith said water poured into the

building, damaging books and electrical systems.

“Because of damage to the roof, the hail and rain got in and it’s damaged a signifcant amount of our book stock and electrical works,” Cr Smith said.

“The library will be out of action for weeks while the extent of the damage is assessed.”

A woman visiting the library told the ABC her

daughter said “it seemed like it was raining inside” as staf scrambled to move books out of harm’s way.

Council staf were working with their insurers to arrange urgent repairs.

“We thank the community for their patience and understanding during this time,” Clarence Valley Council said in a statement.

The storm also left its mark on vehicles across the city.

At least fve police cars were pockmarked by hailstones, with similar reports from residents in multiple suburbs.

BOM senior meteorologist Tristan Sumarna said while large hail is more common in late spring, winter storms can still produce damaging ice.

“When you have cold air above warm air, the potential for thunderstorms increases quite a lot,” he said.

“Any moisture in that air is lifted, freezes into ice particles, then circulates like a washing machine.

“Each collision with supercooled water adds another layer until the hail becomes too heavy to stay aloft and falls.”

Mr Sumarna said Wednesday’s storm was fuelled by a mass of cold Antarctic air moving north over relatively warmer conditions in northern NSW, creating the instability needed for thunderstorms and hail.

Stronger updrafts in colder, drier air keep hailstones aloft longer, allowing them to grow larger before hitting the ground.

The event came less than two weeks after snow blanketed parts of the Northern Tablelands, including Guyra and Armidale, in what BOM called a once-in-ageneration fall for the region.

Mr Sumarna warned that a warming atmosphere was likely to make severe thunderstorms — in any season — more frequent.

The cold air mass responsible for the hailstorm is expected moved east by Friday, but the clean-up in Grafton continues.

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New Guidelines to Streamline Disaster Adaptation Across NSW A Blueprint for Safer Communities

Jef Gibbs

The NSW Government has launched new disaster adaptation planning guidelines designed to create a consistent approach to reducing disaster risks across the state.

The guidelines support the development of Disaster Adaptation Plans (DAPs), a legislative responsibility of the NSW Reconstruction Authority and a key feature of the State Disaster Mitigation Plan (SDMP) released in February 2024. The SDMP highlights how the rising fnancial and social costs of natural disasters can be reduced through longterm investment in risk mitigation.

Work is already underway on the state’s frst DAPs, focusing on food risk in the

Hawkesbury-Nepean Valley and multi-hazard resilience in the Northern Rivers. Funding has also been provided to fve regional organisations of councils to begin early adaptation projects. A Blueprint for Safer Communities

Each DAP will take into account the geography and unique characteristics of a region to identify the most efective riskreduction strategies for hazards such as foods, storms and bushfres. Plans will provide communities with a clear picture of

Cheaper Home Batteries Program Launches July 1, 2025

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

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local risks and outline how disasters impact people, homes, infrastructure and local economies.

Crucially, DAPs place community engagement at the centre of the process, with regional steering committees, community reference

groups and First Nations cultural knowledge guiding decision-making.

Minister for Recovery

Janelle Safn said the new guidelines represent a major shift in how disaster preparedness is approached.

“Hundreds of thousands of residents live in highrisk areas across our state. This is why we are developing regional DAPs, so communities are better prepared to respond to and recover from disasters,”

Ms Safn said.

“We’re shifting the dial on how we prepare for and deal with disasters by working together with local government and communities to create pathways for adaptation and resilience.”

Addressing Escalating Risks

Since July 2019, NSW has endured 111 declared

natural disasters, with more than 20,000 homes damaged in 2022 alone The SDMP projects the annual cost of foods, fres and storms could reach $9.1 billion by 2060, underscoring the urgency of a state-wide approach.

NSW Reconstruction Authority CEO Mal Lanyon said the new guidelines reinforce the dual role of the Authority.

“We must reduce the impact of future disasters before they happen while also being ready to respond when they do,” he said. “These DAPs will help ease pressure on emergency services and volunteers by minimising the impact before disasters strike.”

For more information, including a copy of the guidelines, visit the NSW Reconstruction Authority’s website.

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Minister for Recovery Janelle Safn

Council magazine’s $84m water plant claim sparks governance

By Tim Howard

A governance row over Clarence Valley Council’s proposed $84 million

Rushforth Road water fltration plant will come to a head at the August 21 council meeting, with two items on the agenda set to address the issue.

The controversy erupted when Clarence Magazine, the council’s ofcial quarterly publication, told residents that construction would occur over the next three years, with $50 million in loans to be sought.

The problem: councillors had not yet been fully briefed on the project, nor formally endorsed it.

Cr Cristie Yager lodged a Question with Notice, arguing that publishing unendorsed claims in an ofcial communication breached governance standards under the Local Government Act 1993

“When a major $84 million project — including $50 million in loans — is promoted to the public before the

governing body has been briefed or endorsed it, that obligation is not met,” Cr Yager wrote. “This is about governance, transparency, and ensuring the community receives accurate, authorised information.”

Her notice sets out four questions for the general manager, including what authority was relied upon to publish the claims, what timeline led to their inclusion, and what corrective actions will be taken.

Project Status

tender. The 2025/26 Operational Plan includes staged water price rises to prepare for major projects, and proposes a design-andconstruct tender in 2025/26, with possible construction starting in late 2026 — subject to further approval and consultation.

GM’s Response

A separate report to the meeting outlines that the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure has granted planning approval for the Dissolved Air Flotation/Filtration plant at Rushforth Road, subject to conditions. It confrms the project is

Cr Cristie Yager will bring a Question with Notice to Thursday’s Clarence Valley Council meeting seeking to fnd out how the council’s magazine jumped the gun with an article on the “approval” of an $84 million water fltration plant before councillors have voted on it.

permissible but stresses council is not committed to construction

Any borrowing would require a formal resolution at the same time as awarding a construction

Stronger together

General manager Laura Black cited the Code of Meeting Practice in response to Cr Yager, saying magazine content approval is an “operational activity” managed under sub-delegations. She said correcting misleading information is “a matter of course” and noted the statement had been clarifed online:

“This is pending an approvals process that will include awarding a tender for design, creating a shortlist of construction tenderers, holding

community drop-in sessions, and awarding of a contract for construction with a funding strategy.”

The GM said during the quarter in question council had approved undertaking a design-and-construct tender — a diferent stage from committing to build.

For critics, including Cr Yager, the online clarifcation amounts to a tacit admission the original printed claim overstepped

Governance

Questions

The dispute highlights ongoing tension between councillors and the administration over who controls public communication on major projects. Under the Act, councillors set policy and strategy, while the general manager oversees operations.

But projects involving tens of millions in loans are generally matters for explicit council resolution. By stating construction “will take place over the next three years,”

Clarence Magazine risked giving the public the impression the decision was already made. “This is not a minor communication error — it is a serious governance issue,” Cr Yager said. “Publicly promoting a major unendorsed project with specifc cost, funding, and delivery claims misrepresents the governing body, pre-empts decision-making, and erodes trust.”

What Happens Next

Both Cr Yager’s notice and the project status report are scheduled for Thursday’s meeting, where councillors are expected to press for explanations on how the claim was published and what authority was relied upon.

Whether this incident proves a one-of misstep or a fashpoint in ongoing governance tensions will depend on how openly council addresses the question of who speaks for the governing body.

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Farming outrage: a rural growth industry

Comment By Tim Howard

Let’s start with the actual numbers. According to ANU energy expert Professor Andrew Blakers, to power all of Australia with wind and solar you’d need about 1200 square kilometres of land.

That’s less than the area of greater Canberra — or about 0.034% of the country’s agricultural land.

So if you’re worried that renewables are going to elbow out the cattle and wheat, rest easy: it’s the equivalent of setting aside one hectare in every 3000. And yet — somehow — this microscopic footprint has become a giant talking point for Nationals fgures like David Littleproud and Barnaby Joyce.

Joyce and Littleproud like to claim they’re protecting the bush — standing up for battlers on the land.

But what they’re really farming is outrage, and they’ve taken a hefty stake in Australia’s rapidly expanding whine industry. It’s a bumper season for both.

Take Littleproud’s recent

proclamation:

“At what physical cost to the environment, your food security and cost?”

Sounds serious — until you realise the “physical cost” he’s worried about is largely imaginary.

Even allowing for grid infrastructure and redundancy, the land needed for renewables remains well under 0.1% of Australia’s agricultural area.

In fact, many solar projects are already coexisting with grazing, ofering landowners reliable lease income while sheep munch grass under the panels. Not to be outdone, Barnaby Joyce took the microphone at a Canberra rally and described wind turbines as “flth”, claiming

renewables were part of a “massive multinational swindle”.

He suggested the rollout was akin to an invasion of sacred farmland. Which is rich, coming from a man who didn’t seem especially alarmed when gas pipelines were carving through paddocks or when open-cut coal mines started digging up prime country.

Joyce’s fre-and-brimstone routine leaves out some awkward facts: Farmers are voluntarily signing up to host solar and wind installations. The income from those deals is often what keeps operations viable during drought.

Community support for

renewables in many rural electorates is quietly growing — including in Joyce’s own seat of New England. So how does this tiny land footprint reveal giant strawman?

Let’s do the math again, just to be clear: Agricultural land in Australia: ~3.5 million km²

Land needed to power the nation with renewables: ~1,200 km²

That’s a footprint of 0.034% — a rounding error. You could triple the area to include storage, transmission corridors and bufer zones, and still not crack a tenth of a percent of farmland.

There’s more land lost each year to salinity, urban sprawl and mining than renewables would ever touch.

And unlike fossil fuel projects, renewable energy installations: Don’t pollute aquifers Don’t create permanent soil degradation

And don’t require a rehabilitation fund to fx the damage (which, let’s face it, never quite gets fxed anyway)

In southern Queensland, landholders have welcomed wind farm leasing as their “drought bufer.”

In Victoria and NSW, solar grazing is not just tolerated — it’s thriving.

In some cases, panels reduce water loss, shelter livestock, and improve pasture resilience.

Australia’s total rooftop solar potential — from houses, sheds, shops, and factories — is estimated at over 100 gigawatts, more than four times current capacity.

A fully realised rooftop rollout could supply most or all of our electricity needs without taking a single cow of a paddock.

This isn’t ideology — it’s basic logistics, and farmers are pragmatic. If it pays the bills and doesn’t wreck the land, it’s a goer.

Here’s the part Littleproud and Joyce gloss over: the real threat to farming isn’t a solar panel — it’s climate breakdown.

Longer droughts, more intense storms, collapsing insurability. The UN has warned of mega-droughts that could make fruit and

vegetables luxury goods by 2050.

Not because of a solar boom, but because we’ve failed to act.

Yet the Nationals’ response to this looming crisis is to complain about turbines, whip up conspiracy theories, and suggest that embracing the clean energy economy is somehow a betrayal of the bush.

Farmers aren’t being pushed aside — they’re being cut in.

They’re earning steady income, diversifying land use, and in some cases, building energy cooperatives to own and share the profts from solar and wind. So the next time you hear that renewables are threatening agriculture, remember: it’s not land being lost. It’s a handful of politicians losing their grip on relevance.

And for all their performative concern, it’s clear what Joyce and Littleproud are really trying to protect — not farmers, but fossil fuel talking points and the glorious harvest of a culture war crop that thrives best in a feld of fear.

Wind turbines on the Southern Highlands south of Sydney don’t seem to be overtly threatening this rural landscape.

Dean Stewart Explores Memory rough Reclaimed Materials in New Exhibition

Jef Gibbs

The Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre has opened its doors to a new solo exhibition by Northern Rivers artist Dean Stewart. Material Memory, which runs from 15 August to 30 November 2025, transforms discarded and salvaged objects into contemplative works of art that probe the connections between memory, material and meaning.

Stewart’s practice centres on the idea that everyday objects carry stories—whether through their form, texture, or the associations we bring to them. In Material Memory, he deconstructs and rearranges reclaimed materials into assemblages that ask viewers to refect on what feels familiar, what evokes nostalgia, and how beauty can be found in the overlooked. The

result is a collection that is both playful and profound, celebrating memory as something tangible and visible.

The exhibition forms part of the Gallery’s PLATFORM program, a regional initiative designed to showcase the work of local artists. Visitors can expect to see pieces such as Catcher, a 100cm circular composition created from reclaimed leather, and Memory Patterns, a large-scale acrylic work stretching four metres.

bamboo, wood, paper 120 x 90 x 23 cm photo by Artist AUD$1,500

The Memory Lines series adds another layer of storytelling, using reclaimed cotton canvas,

thread and timber to create tactile explorations of time and experience.

Reclaimed leather, plastic, fabric, copper, timber 115 x 100 x 20 cm photo by Artist AUD$1,500

For Stewart, the act of reclaiming and repurposing materials is as important as the fnished artworks themselves. With a background in interior design, visual merchandising and sign writing, and formal training from the Byron School of Art, he brings a strong sense of craft, form and spatial awareness to his work. Each assemblage acknowledges the origins of the materials used while presenting them in fresh,

contemporary ways.

This is Stewart’s second solo exhibition, following Direction Forward at Byron Bay’s Lone Goat Gallery earlier this year. His works are already held in private collections across Lennox Head, Ballina, Mullumbimby, Sydney and even Oxfordshire in the UK.

The exhibition not only highlights Stewart’s evolving career but also refects the role of regional

galleries in supporting artists with strong local ties. Through Material Memory, Stewart invites audiences to slow down, notice the traces left in everyday objects, and fnd resonance in the fragments of material culture around us.

For more details on the exhibition, visit gallery.tweed.nsw.gov. au or follow the artist on Instagram at @ deanstewartart

NSW SES Urges Northern NSW Communities to Prepare for Heavy Rainfall and Flood Risk

The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) is warning residents across northern New South Wales to prepare for more wet weather this week, with widespread rainfall expected to bring fash fooding and renewed river rises.

The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting rainfall to intensify from Wednesday, with moderate to heavy falls of 40–90mm likely along the central and northern coast and isolated totals above 120mm possible. In the northwest of the state, rainfall totals of 20–50mm are expected,

with some areas potentially exceeding 80mm.

This rainfall could trigger minor to moderate fooding across catchments in the Mid North Coast, Northern Rivers and North West Slopes. An initial food watch has already been issued for the Orara, Bellinger, Nambucca, Macleay, Hastings, Peel and Namoi Rivers.

Saturated Catchments

Heighten Risk

NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Colin Malone said that while there is still some uncertainty about the exact location of the heaviest

falls, rivers and creeks are expected to rise quickly.

“We know that catchments in northern NSW are saturated from recent weather events and will respond quickly to this rainfall,” Assistant Commissioner Malone said.

“Thunderstorms could also cause localised heavy falls, bringing the risk of fash fooding. We’re working closely with the Bureau of Meteorology to monitor the development of this weather system, and we will issue any warnings if required.”

Ongoing Flood Impacts

in Western NSW

The warning comes as western parts of the state continue to experience fooding caused by a coastal low earlier this month. Flood warnings remain in place for Goangra, Bugilbone, Come By Chance, Walgett and surrounding communities.

The Namoi River’s main food peak is currently near Goangra and is expected to reach the Barwon River at Walgett in coming days, with minor fooding possible at Walgett from Wednesday.

Community Urged to

Stay Alert

Assistant Commissioner Malone urged residents not to become complacent and to take simple steps to stay safe.

“The NSW SES is prepared to respond to an increase in calls for assistance, but there are simple steps the community can take to be prepared as well,” he said.

“Download the Hazards Near Me app and set up a watch zone for your local neighbourhood, so you are alerted with the latest warnings and advice. It’s important that everyone understands their own

food risk and has an emergency plan in place— knowing where you will go and what you will do if fooding afects you and your family.”

Where to Get Help For the latest warnings and preparedness advice, download the Hazards Near Me app or visit the NSW SES website For weather updates, head to the Bureau of Meteorology website. If you need emergency assistance from the NSW SES, call 132 500 In life-threatening situations, always call Triple Zero (000)

Dean Stewart Artist Bio

CATCHER

RED SADDLE 01

This is Stewart’s second solo exhibition, following Direction Forward at Byron Bay’s Lone Goat Gallery earlier this year.

Flood-Affected Homes Draw Strong Bidding in Northern Rivers Auction

Robert Heyward

More than 50 eager bidders packed into the Murwillumbah Services Club for the latest auction of food-afected homes, with nine properties selling for a combined $712,000 under the hammer.

The event, conducted by First National Real Estate, featured homes from Burringbar and South Murwillumbah purchased through the NSW Reconstruction Authority’s (RA) food buyback program.

Bidding was spirited, with three homes topping the previous record sale price of $101,000.

Auction Highlights

37 Wardrop Street:

$200,000 (seven bidders; opened at $10,000 – the highest opening bid so far)

6077 Tweed Valley Way, Burringbar:

SUNRISE

$155,000

319 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah:

$80,000

6066 Tweed Valley Way, Burringbar:

$130,000

6060 Tweed Valley Way, Burringbar:

$20,000

6068 Tweed Valley Way, Burringbar:

$92,000

6069 Tweed Valley Way, Burringbar:

$21,000

6058 Tweed Valley Way, Burringbar:

$10,000

3 Hunter Street, Burringbar: $4,000

With 54 food-afected homes now sold across the Northern Rivers, the auctions have attracted national attention

Application for Appointment of Board Members

Dyraaba Public Hall Reserve Land Manager

Ever wondered who is responsible for keeping Crown reserves operating?

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

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

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

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

The Dyraaba Public Hall Reserve Land Manager manages the Reserve No. 58344 at Dyraaba notifed on 23-Oct-1925 for Public Hall Site. The term of appointment will be for a period not exceeding 5 years.

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

All applications are required to be lodged by 22 September 2025

For further information contact Chrissy Haslem on (02) 6642 9213 or go to reservemanager.crownland.nsw.gov.au

for ofering unique relocation and renovation opportunities — sometimes starting from as little as $1.

The Resilient Homes Program

All homes auctioned are part of the $880 million Resilient Homes Program, jointly funded by the NSW and Commonwealth Governments. The buyback stream targets homes in high-risk food zones, with unsuitable properties to be demolished and salvageable ones relocated.

So far, more than 1,300 food-impacted homeowners have engaged with the program, resulting in 926 ofers and 699 settlements

Hundreds of properties are now being gifted or auctioned for relocation.

Afordable Housing Alternative

For Lismore couple

Jackie and Luke Edwards, the program ofered a solution to rising construction costs.

The honey producers purchased a hillside farm three years ago but put

building plans on hold. Instead, they successfully bid $35,000 for a 105-year-old cottage near Lismore CBD at an earlier auction.

“I’m so in love with this house already,” Jackie said. “We were looking at $400,000 to build new, so this is an awesome option. We’re giving it a second lease on life, and I hope

“I’m so in love with this house already,” Jackie said. “We were looking at $400,000 to build new, so this is an awesome option. We’re giving it a second lease on life, and I hope more people consider it.”

more people consider it.” More Auctions Ahead Further sales are planned, with Wal Murray & Co hosting an auction in September and PRD Northern Rivers following in October. Minister for Recovery Janelle Safn said the auctions were providing both afordable housing and a fresh start.

NSW Custody Numbers Surge, Remand at Record High

Jef Gibbs

The NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) has released its latest Custody Statistics Report to June 2025, revealing signifcant increases in both adult and youth detention populations over the past two years.

Adult Custody

As of June 2025, 13,122 adults were in custody across NSW — 12,219 men and 903 women. While numbers remain below pre-pandemic levels, the adult prison population has grown by 843 inmates (6.9%) since June 2023.

The remand population has reached a record

5,800 people, making up 44% of all inmates. Domestic violence ofences are a key driver, with the number of adults on remand for DV charges rising by 456 people (32.9%) over the past two years. Almost one-third (31.7%) of all adults on remand are now in custody for DV-related ofences.

The number of Aboriginal adults in custody has also grown sharply, increasing from 3,711 in June 2023 to 4,386 in June 2025 — an 18.2% rise. Aboriginal people now account for 33.4% of the adult prison population, the highest proportion on record.

Youth Detention Youth detention has also

seen a marked increase. As of June 2025, 234 young people (225 boys and 9 girls) were in custody — up 34% from June 2023. The majority (71.8% ) are on remand, with almost one in four (23.9%) detained for break and enter ofences.

Aboriginal young people remain signifcantly over-represented, making up 59.8% of the youth detention population, or 140 individuals.

BOCSAR’s fgures highlight the growing pressures on the justice system, with record remand numbers and continuing overrepresentation of Aboriginal people in both adult and youth custody.

INTERVIEW WITH JANELLE AND JACKIE AND LUKE EDWARDS

From Cancer to Courage: Teens Awarded 2025 Dare to Dream Scholarships

Jef Gibbs

Two inspiring teenagers have been recognised for their resilience and ambition, winning the 2025 Redkite & Coles Dare to Dream Scholarship.

Seventeen-year-old Brandan from Queensland and sixteen-year-old Millie from New South Wales have each received $5,000 to pursue their dreams after facing the life-changing challenges of childhood cancer.

Now in its 12th year, the national program supports young Australians aged 13 to 18 who are rebuilding their lives beyond treatment. Backed by Coles and its customers, the scholarship helps recipients turn ambition into action.

Redkite CEO Monique Keighery said childhood cancer continues to afect young people well after their treatment ends.

“The end of childhood cancer treatment doesn’t mean the end of its impact,” Ms Keighery said.

“The Redkite & Coles Dare to Dream Scholarship recognises the resilience and ambition of young cancer patients and survivors, providing extra support so they can look to the future with confdence.”

Brandan: A Storyteller in the Making

Originally from

Cairns, Brandan spent months in Brisbane undergoing treatment for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia. Away from his twin sister, friends and school, he discovered a passion for flm and photography.

“Cancer’s taken me out of school and away from friends, but thanks to this scholarship, I can start chasing my dream of making flms,” Brandan said.

His mother, Kylie, said the scholarship had opened doors.

“Without this scholarship, it would be harder to do this. He’ll now have all the tools to be able to catch up and be back on track.”

Millie: Fashion with a Purpose

Sydney student Millie

My Dad

“My dad always has a smile on his face that never turns upside down.”

He has brown hair, hazel eyes, and a bushy beard.

“I love him so much because he is mine.”

“He drives a little truck every day, but not on weekends.” During the school holidays, I sometimes go with him. “We have lots of fun — we just talk, laugh, and eat pies and sausage rolls. I am his trucker girl.”

“Dad is a good cook, and he gives me dessert every night.” But there are rules too. “I’m not allowed to use my phone or iPad after dinner, and I usually have to go to bed at 8.30. On weekends, I get to stay up a little later.”

“He loves loud music and making fres in our backyard.” We even roast marshmallows together — “yum, yum!”

“Dad once took me to Brisbane to the football. His team won and mine didn’t, but that was okay

because we had such a great time together, while Mum stayed at home.”

“He spoils me sometimes. Just Dad and I go shopping.” And other times, “we go out for breakfast — we both love eggs benedict.” He also takes me to karate, camping, and “lots of

completed treatment for stage 4 Hodgkin lymphoma earlier this year. Living with ADHD, severe dyslexia and anxiety, she often found treatment overwhelming.

“The hospital environment was a noisy, brightly lit sensory overload,” she explained.

Millie plans to use her scholarship to fund sewing lessons and create a business designing sensory-friendly clothing and fdget products for neurodivergent teens.

Her mother, Sally, said the program is helping her daughter embrace her strengths.

“This is just another chance to show Millie’s strengths that make her shine. And I think it’s okay not to be a normal

teenager. You create your own destiny.”

A Partnership Creating Futures Coles has supported Redkite for more than a decade, helping hundreds of young Australians afected by cancer.

Brad Gorman, Coles General Manager Commercial of Bakery, Dairy & Frozen, and a judge on this year’s panel, said the stories of the recipients inspire both staf and customers.

“Each year, the stories of these young Dare to Dream Scholarship recipients inspire our team members and customers. We’re proud this partnership has already helped hundreds of young people afected by childhood cancer,

and we can’t wait to see what Brandan and Millie achieve.”

Building Beyond Treatment

While survival rates are improving, many young people continue to face the lasting impacts of cancer. The Dare to Dream Scholarship provides them with tools, training and opportunities to move forward with confdence.

For Brandan, it means new camera equipment and a future in flmmaking. For Millie, it’s turning her lived experiences into fashion that supports others like her.

Together, they show that courage, creativity and ambition can outshine even the darkest of challenges.

Macksville Music Muster Returns in 2026 with Star-Studded Country Line-Up

Jef

Gibbs

The Macksville Music Muster will return to the picturesque Nambucca Valley in 2026, bringing a week of country music, community spirit, and family fun to the Macksville Showgrounds from 16–23 February.

The fve-day celebration will feature a mix of established and emerging country artists, alongside feature shows, market stalls, delicious food, and entertainment for all ages.

The 2026 line-up includes Ricki Wood, Owen Blundell, Kiara Rodrigues, Kathy Carver, Vanessa Sanger, Larry Cann, Pete Smith, Trevor Tolton, and Leigh Warren.

On Saturday night, headline performances

Macksville Music Muster Returns in 2026 with StarStudded Country Line-Up

will come from feature artists Tania Kernaghan and Jason Owen Festival highlights will include meet-and-greet sessions with artists, a BBQ dinner, pony hops, and a variety of stalls.

The Muster caters to both locals and campers, ofering an inclusive atmosphere that celebrates music and community.

Organisers say the event has gone from strength to strength since its debut in 2019.

“We are thrilled to bring this unique Muster back to Macksville in 2026. Since our inaugural event, we’ve showcased incredible talent and created lasting memories,” a spokesperson said. Beyond the music, attendees can enjoy art and craft stalls, food trucks, family-friendly activities, and the chance to camp onsite at the Macksville Showgrounds. Tickets, full program details, and updates are available on the Macksville Music Muster website and the festival’s ofcial Facebook page Venue: Macksville Showgrounds, Rodeo Drive, Macksville NSW 2447

Quota Alstonville Craft & Garden Fair –

Celebrating 30 Years

places, even Bali.”

“Dad gives me big cuddles and kisses, even when he leaves early in the morning.” I love and miss him so much.

“When he rings Mum, I can’t talk to him because I miss him too much, and I cry.”

“I just love him to death.”

The beloved Quota Alstonville Craft and Garden Fair returns Saturday 30 –Sunday 31 August at the Alstonville Showground – and this year marks a special 30th anniversary milestone! Over the past three decades, this cherished community event has raised vital funds for local projects, thanks to the incredible support of the Northern Rivers

community. Organised by Quota Alstonville, a dedicated group of local women volunteers, the Fair supports practical, grassroots initiatives – from care bags for hospital patients to accommodation support for families and school supplies for children in need.

With over 90 stalls of handmade arts, jewellery and fbre crafts, plant sales

, garden displays, and expert gardening advice. BBQ and café-style food & drinks will be available. What began as a celebration of handcrafted goods has blossomed into a vibrant event for garden lovers, makers, and families alike. Whether you're shopping for unique pieces, stocking up on plants, or enjoying a day out, there's something for everyone.

Emergency Services Expo returns to showcase frontline heroes

Jef Gibbs

Feel the pulse of emergency response at a free, familyfriendly showcase at Jack Evans Boat Harbour on Saturday 6 September, from 10 am to 3 pm Originally slated for 31 May, the event was postponed due to severe weather—now it’s back, bigger and better.

Tweed Shire Mayor Chris Cherry said the day is a rare chance to meet local responders and see how partner agencies work together before, during and after disasters. “Watching our frontline heroes in action is a great way to understand their vital role,” Cr Cherry said.

“Learning how we can all contribute to disaster preparedness will make the Tweed a safer, more resilient community.” She noted the relevance

in the wake of the 2022 foods and, more recently, ExTropical Cyclone

Alfred The new date also aligns with the local bushfre

season starting earlier this year—1 September rather than 1 October—

refecting heightened fre risk under changing climate conditions.

On the day, visitors can: Meet their local heroes: SES, Police, Ambulance, Fire and Rescue, Marine Rescue, Surf Lifesaving, Red Cross and more.

Watch live demonstrations of realworld emergency response.

Climb aboard fre trucks, rescue boats, allterrain vehicles and explore hightech gear. Learn practical steps to be disasterready at home and in the community. No registration is required, though residents can opt in for a reminder. For details and to register your interest, visit tweed. nsw.gov.au/emergencyplanning-recovery

Tweed Shire Council Backs 20 Local Events in 2025–2026 Sponsorship Program

Jef Gibbs

Tweed Shire Council will support 20 diverse local events over the next year through its 2025–2026 Event Sponsorship Program, celebrating the region’s natural beauty, creativity, and culinary culture.

The program invited event organisers to apply for funding to deliver experiences that align with community values and showcase the Tweed’s unique appeal, bringing the Tweed Events Strategy 2024–2028 to life.

Mayor Chris Cherry said the initiative plays a vital role in building

community spirit. “Our local events are more than just great days out. They foster connection, showcase our creativity, and celebrate what makes the Tweed such a special place to live and visit,” Cr Cherry said.

This year’s successful events range from major sporting competitions to arts, music, and family celebrations. They include:

Kinship Festival – 20 Sept 2025, Murwillumbah Pathway of the Sun Fair – 21 Sept 2025,

Crabbes Creek

Tyalgum Music Festival – 26–28 Sept 2025, Tyalgum

Chasing Swell Tweed Coast Pro Junior – 4–5 Oct 2025, Cabarita Beach Murwillumbah Show – 31 Oct–1 Nov 2025, Murwillumbah Tweed Orchid Show and Fair – 31 Oct–2 Nov 2025, Tweed Heads

Tyalgum Dance Spectacular – 15 Nov 2025, Tyalgum Kingsclif Triathlon –16 Nov 2025, Kingsclif Carols by the Coast – 9 Dec 2025, Kingsclif Carols in the Park – 12 Dec 2025, Murwillumbah Lions Club Community

Christmas Party – 13 Dec 2025, Cabarita Beach Tweed Coast Enduro –14 Feb 2026, Pottsville Kingsclif Triathlon – 1 Mar 2026, Kingsclif Chillingham’s Family Fun Day – 9 May 2026, Chillingham Lava Arts Festival –22–24 May 2026, Shirewide

World Environment Day Festival – 7 June 2026, Murwillumbah Seas the Day Women’s Surf Festival – 20–21 June 2026, Kingsclif Head of the Tweed – 28 June 2026, Tweed River Tweed 30 Paddle Marathon – 25–26 July 2026, Murwillumbah to

Tweed Heads

Australian Longboard Titles – 25–30 July 2026, Various beaches Council will also again partner with Tweed Tourism Co to deliver the signature Savour The Tweed food and drink festival from 22–26 October 2025, a fagship event showcasing the region’s favours and stories.

In addition, the Tweed Regional Museum Street Party will return to Murwillumbah on 6 September 2025, supported by $350,000 in multi-year NSW Government funding through to 2027.

Sunday Community Markets Return to Lismore

A much-missed Sunday market is making a comeback in Lismore, thanks to the initiative of the Lismore City Bowling Club. Member for Lismore Janelle Safn praised the club for reviving a monthly market, recalling

how many locals had told her they missed the old car boot sales.

“It’s great to see this community initiative take of,” Ms Safn said. Club manager Sharon Pepper said the idea began as a trial with around 25 stalls three

months ago, but growing interest has seen the event fourish. This Sunday will mark its ofcial launch as a regular fxture. Held on the third Sunday of each month, the market features food trucks, Dark Horse cofee, garden stalls, honey and

produce, clothing, natural cleaning products, and more. For the launch, all 45 stall spaces are booked.

Community groups including the Historical Society and Resilient Lismore will have stalls, and children can enjoy

a free sausage sizzle. Volunteers from the bowling club will run the barbecue, with the club’s fve life members – aged from their mid-eighties to 94 – on hand for the opening.

Ms Safn said events like this bring valuable

energy to the CBD on weekends.

“The Lismore City Bowlo already has its Jazz afternoons on the frst Sunday of the month, and now the markets on the third Sunday – and they can go ahead even if it rains,” she said.

Members of Tweed District Rescue Squad - VRA Rescue NSW do a car cutting demonstration.

“Leemo has views on just about anything”

MUM JANE & MUSIC NOSTALGIA

I am, frankly, unendingly startled by ‘Mum Jane’s’ behaviours. (Leemo Cat here!) To-day she had another ‘happening’. JUST as she was leaving to go buy food for MEESIE & herself (& I got the normal, unseemly for a bloke cat, hug/kiss stuf) a song came on our radio. OMG, it was like she’d been hit by lightning. She raced back inside & turned up the volume...’LEEMS, it’s a song by Chris Farlowe called ‘Out of Time’ THEN, to my horror, she started dancing around with old woman wobbly arthritic moves (GROSS!) & singing most loudly in a voice, FRANKLY ofensive. The song, (praise the Lord) ended. If you think it’s the end of this debacle, WRONG! She went on: ‘Leems, I MUST tell you about the song. I bought that record 58 yrs ago when I was almost 17 yrs old had & saved up $ working weekends in a cofee shop in Townsville called the ‘Chit Chat’. Dad would drop me of and pick me up. It was my very 1ST record purchase & I listened to it every night on a small pink & grey record player in my bedroom. AND THEN, Leems, I discovered the ‘Rolling Stones’, the ‘Kinks’, the ‘Yardbirds’, the ‘Animals’, Bob Dylan, the ‘Beatles’ & so on – ooooh, it was a truly nifty time. I reckon you & the Buddies would have enjoyed singing

& dancing with me. (I had serious misgivings about her assumption but fgured the rude word response I had in mind should pass to the Keeper!) THEN she had the inane notion to turn ‘our’ TV to see if she could now WATCH the bloody song. (Oooh nooooooo ‘Flufy Bum’ & “Treasure’ are popping in for a VIP Buddies Budget meeting!) Sure enough, even with her appalling lack of know-how when it comes to technology, SHE FOUND the poxy song, just when ‘Fluf’ & ‘Treasure’ arrived. I shouted ‘Mum, were you NOT going to the shops to buy stuf?

Hurry before my treats sell out: I reckon you should treat ‘yourself’ to some ‘Op Shop’ browsing whilst you’re out (for 3 or 4 days) ‘cos you haven’t been in ages: You can catch up with Marie, Chris, Betty, Faye, Victoria, Linda, June, Donna, & all the others. Whaddya reckon? A ‘thought’ crossed her mind? (amazing!) Hmmm? ‘NUP Leems, I reckon it’s more signifcant for me to introduce you & the Buddies to music of the late 1960’s. You’ll learn so much, so go call the rest of them. I’ll make treats & show you how we danced & swivelled in those days.’ OMG: Nightmare reality hit me! ‘Brutus’ & ‘Scarlet’ arrived: ‘Pasqualie’ was away skiing. Mum cheerily told us all to get comfy & presented treats: turned on our TV telling us to get up & dance whenever we were inclined whilst learning watching her moves: then put on her song ’Out of Time’ very loudly. None of us moved. We were stunned into silent non-dance states. It’s difcult to explain what we thought of Chris Farlowe & his song ’Out of Time’ but we fgure Mum fts right into the title. We all slunk of, up the safety tree. Nitey with loving purry concern for ‘Mum Jane’ Leemo.

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.

Honouring John Mayes Reading the tribute to John Mayes brought a tear to my eye. What a remarkable man — not just for his sporting achievements but for his kindness and humour. The anecdotes from mates and family captured the larrikin spirit that makes rugby league great. You’ve given Evans Head a beautiful reminder of one of its true legends.

M. Taylor, Evans Head

Who Is This Saucy Kitchen Poet?

To the mysterious culinary genius behind your recipe page — who hurt you, and can I thank them? Only someone with equal parts sass, sugar, and possibly a mild disregard for portion control could write instructions like “smother with frosting like you’re hiding evidence” or compare pasta bake to Ryan Gosling. I don’t know your name, but I imagine you wearing an apron with a warning label and cackling while you stir. If you ever release a cookbook, I’ll buy three — one to use, one to gift, and one to hide from

judgemental relatives. M. Collins, Murwillumbah

Banarra Brahmans Sale

Great to see quality local cattle breeding on display again at the second annual Banarra Brahmans sale.

J. McKenzie, Grafton

Miss 8’s Snow Dragon Story

What an imaginative piece! Please encourage Miss 8 to keep writing — stories like this brighten the page.

F. Mitchell, Nimbin

Tick Awareness Reminder

The article on paralysis ticks was a timely warning. Many of us forget prevention in cooler months, but the threat is year-round.

L. Peterson, Alstonville Cooking Page Keeps Winning

Between the cheeky Hummingbird Cake and the indulgent pasta bake, I’m laughing and cooking every week.

D. Foster, Kyogle

CBD Recovery a Credit to Lismore

The 81% occupancy rate for Lismore’s CBD is brilliant news. Walking through town lately, I’ve noticed the energy returning, with new shops and old favourites bringing life back. Credit to business owners who’ve stuck it out through tough years. Your coverage — and the new paper layout — makes reading about our recovery a real pleasure.

S. Holmes, Goonellabah

From One Dragon Fan to Another

Hi Miss 8,

I think your snow dragon is the coolest dragon ever (and maybe the scariest too). If I was in your story, I’d bring the dragon a giant hot chocolate instead of sleeping medicine — then we could be friends and fy over the village together. Please write another chapter so we can see what happens next!

Your new fan, Ellie, Age 9, Lismore

A Message from the Village

Dear Miss 8, I live in the village at the bottom of your mountain (in my imagination) and I wanted to say thank you for letting Strong John save us from the dragon. But could you please tell

him to leave the earmufs of next time? I think the dragon might like music, and maybe we could all dance together. Can’t wait for your next story!

From Liam, Age 8, Kyogle

Water Filtration

Concerns

The Clarence Valley water fltration plan sounds overdue, but I’m worried about the costs falling on ratepayers. Seven percent increases on top of infation will hit hard. Council should have secured state funding earlier. Let’s have transparency before committing to such a massive project.

P. Jensen, Maclean

Invercauld House Award

Winning gold at the Regional Tourism Awards is well deserved. It’s a venue that blends hospitality and community spirit perfectly.

R. Clarke, Lismore

Bananas, Pineapple and Sin I made the Hummingbird Cake and it turned out so good my neighbours have started dropping by “accidentally” around afternoon tea. Next time, I’m adding a sign on the door: “Absolutely not sharing” — just like the recipe says.

T. James, Lismore

Bullying Awareness is Crucial

I appreciate the focus on the National Week of Action Against Bullying. As a parent, the strategies ofered are simple but powerful. Building confdence and kindness in kids is more important than ever. Great to see your layout making these articles stand out so clearly.

L. Green, Casino

Keep Writing, Miss 8

What a fantastic story! I could see the white snow dragon in my mind and feel the excitement when it woke up. Your twist at the end made me smile, and I love how you made it all a dream. You’ve got talent beyond your years, and I hope we get to read many more of your tales in the paper.

S. Graham, Alstonville

Cattle Market Confdence

Good to see beef prices showing some stability again — let’s hope it lasts into summer.

D. Reid, Tabulam

Wildlife Hospital is a Triumph

The opening of the Northern Rivers Wildlife Hospital is a dream realised. Our injured and orphaned native animals fnally have the facility they deserve. Congratulations to everyone involved — a true community win. The photos really popped in your new design.

R. Adams, Alstonville

Paper’s New Look

Your fresh design is easy to navigate and really lets the stories breathe. The best it’s looked in years.

K. Martin, Coraki

Bank Merger Must Keep Values

The Summerland–Regional Australia Bank merger sounds positive, but I hope they keep their community focus. Customer ownership is precious — we don’t want to see that diluted.

K. Bennett, Kyogle

Quad Bike Safety

Good to see quad bike deaths declining, but stronger enforcement is essential. Too many experienced riders ignore helmets and OPDs. Lives could be saved with stricter rules.

T. McCall, Tenterfeld

Casino High’s Academic Gains

Well done to Casino High for its NAPLAN improvements. Focused literacy and numeracy work pays of. Proud to see regional schools proving themselves.

D. Ross, Casino

Street Party Sounds Fantastic

The Tweed Regional Museum Street Party looks like a must-attend. Love the blend of music, art, and family fun. The event write-up was so colourful in your new format.

M. Young, Murwillumbah

Invercauld House Wins Gold

Invercauld House’s award is well-earned. It’s one of those venues where you feel instantly welcome. Great to see local tourism excellence recognised. C. Fraser, Lismore

Byron Shire Recovery Works Welcome The food repairs across Byron Shire can’t come soon enough. Left Bank Road in particular has been a hazard for years. Keep us posted with progress.

H. Wallace, Mullumbimby

Advance Care Planning is Vital

The Dying to Know Day message is one we all avoid but shouldn’t. I’ve now talked with my family about my wishes. Your coverage made it easier to start the conversation.

B. Norton, Ballina

Apprenticeship Review a Good Move Modernising apprenticeships is overdue. Let’s see more training in regional areas, not just cities. Trades are crying out for workers.

E. Scott, Grafton

Flood Works Need Coordination

Glad to see Byron Shire’s recovery projects moving ahead, but I hope they’re coordinated to minimise disruption. Too often, roadworks overlap and cause chaos.

R. Murphy, Brunswick Heads

Museum Street Party for All Ages

Loved last year’s Street Party and this year’s program looks even better. Great to see free, familyfriendly events thriving. G. Hughes, Banora Point

Paper’s New Look is Excellent

Your refreshed design is fantastic — cleaner, brighter, and easier to navigate. Makes the stories even more engaging. Keep it up!

N. Perry, Coraki

Opportunities Like This Don’t Come Twice

I was thrilled to read about the launch of the 2026 RAS Rural Achiever Program. It’s exactly the kind of initiative we need to keep young people inspired about agriculture and community leadership. Too often, talented young rural Australians

feel overlooked or disconnected from the decision-making that shapes our industry’s future. This program not only gives them skills and confdence, but also helps them build networks that can last a lifetime.

James Stephens’ story proves the value of stepping up — it’s not about being the loudest, but being passionate and committed. I’d encourage every eligible young person in the Northern Rivers to consider applying. Opportunities like this don’t come around every year, and those selected will carry the lessons and friendships far beyond the showgrounds.

K. Doyle Kyogle

Rebels Show True Grit

Despite Loss

As a long-time Rebels supporter, I just wanted to say how proud I was of the boys in that fnal match against the Comets. Yes, the scoreboard didn’t fall our way, but the fght, determination, and sheer guts on display made it feel like a win in spirit. Seeing young players like Merrick Skinner and Jack Torrens step up across multiple grades shows we’ve got depth of character in this club. And Nick McGrady’s hat-trick was pure magic — exactly the kind of spark that keeps fans coming back, even after a tough season. Injuries may have kept us from fnishing stronger, but the heart was never in doubt. Roll on 2026 — I believe the Rebels will come back harder and hungrier than ever.

D. Carlin South Grafton

Bullying No Way

Reading about Bullying No Way Week reminded me of my son’s struggles in Year 6. The tips for

parents to “be bold, be kind, speak up” really resonate. Schools and families must work together if we want lasting change.

J. Edwards, Casino

Facing the End

The “Nobody Knows” campaign about end-of-life planning is confronting but vital. I’ve seen family members sufer because nothing was written down. Talking about death doesn’t hasten it—it just makes life easier for those left behind.

D. McKenzie, Ballina

Skills for the Future

The NSW Government’s review of apprenticeships is overdue. Too many young people in the Northern Rivers start trades but never fnish because the system is clunky. Let’s simplify and support them so we keep the skills here.

T. Robertson, Lismore

Casino Pride

I was thrilled to read about Casino High School’s academic growth. Our regional schools often get painted as struggling, so it’s inspiring to see local kids achieving well in literacy and numeracy. Congratulations to the staf and students.

K. Martin, Casino

Street Party Joy

The Tweed Regional Museum Street Party is becoming one of the best events on the local calendar. Where else can you have live music, art, kids’ fun and food all in one place? Count me in!

S. Thomas, Murwillumbah

Tourism Excellence

Invercauld House winning gold is well deserved. I attended a conference there recently and was

blown away by the service. Lismore has a real gem that deserves state recognition.

P. Williams, Lismore

Tick Threat

Tick paralysis terrifes every pet owner I know. The fact that treatment can cost tens of thousands is shocking. Prevention really is the only answer. Please, check your pets daily.

A. Gordon, Alstonville

Grant Writing Help

The free grant writing workshops are such a practical initiative. Small groups often fail at the paperwork stage, not because their projects aren’t good but because forms are intimidating. This could be a gamechanger.

H. Clarke, Evans Head

Housing and Land

I welcome the Ballina land remediation project. Turning contaminated land into housing sites makes sense, especially when so many families are desperate for homes. Just make sure it’s cleaned up properly frst.

G. Matthews, Lennox Head

Milaya’s Story

Milaya Mackenzie’s journey from isolation to leadership is incredibly moving. Young people need to see stories like hers—it shows that bullying doesn’t have to defne your future.

B. O’Connor, Lismore

Lennox Concerns

I fully support the Lennox Head residents calling for proper infrastructure. It’s madness to approve thousands of new homes without a high school or reliable public transport. Growth must be balanced with services.

J. Kelly, Lennox Head

Maugham from form to form…

By Nigel Dawe

I’m not sure I’d call myself a blind proponent of synchronicity, though I would broadly consider myself an ongoing subscriber, albeit a more than partial advocate that remains open to the full sweep of this intriguing concept. A concept that was frst formulated by the Swiss psychotherapist Carl Jung in the late 1920s. It came to mind recently when I was nearing the end of a deeply refective book titled The Summing Up by Somerset Maugham, who was in turn the favourite writer of none other than his countryman George Orwell. Having once stated that Maugham was, “The modern writer who has infuenced me the most,” Orwell was beautifully honoured and referenced recently as “a kind of swim coach” by our own Tim Howard, during the exact period I was engrossed in Maugham’s abovementioned book.

Relatedly, I am a fully qualifed swim teacher, and something (additional to writing) I do on a daily basis, so the analogy of Eric Blair, otherwise known as George Orwell (who adopted this name at the age of 30) as someone who “helps us refne our stroke, keep our bearings, and move with clarity through the chaos” was something that resonated with me deeply. As did the consideration of who directly infuences who, in the realm of the truest writing.

While there are fgures that continue to present as ever-competent swim coaches, there are also looming personages that can’t be considered as anything less than lighthouses; people that fully illuminate the most treacherous of waterscapes so that others may safely

navigate such locales. And if Maugham was Orwell’s biggest infuence, then it’s only apt to reference Maugham’s own literary hero, the Frenchman and undoubtedly eternal lighthouse – Voltaire. Apparently prior to sitting down to write his novels, Somerset Maugham would religiously re-read Voltaire’s most celebrated work – Candide, for inspiration and frm reminding of what one ought to aim for when undertaking such a thing.

The great Issac Newton once said, “If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.” And nowhere than in the realm of literature and art does anyone see more clearly than by standing on such elevated shoulders.

More than being ‘standalone’ literary fgures, it struck me that Orwell, through to Maugham, and back to Voltaire were each connected by an unbreakable thread that led them to a cultural vantage point that still reveals so much to even the remotely interested. Now add to this interconnected mix, Shakespeare, who was – yep, Voltaire’s greatest literary infuence, and you have the last 400 years of truth, inspiration, politics and reason, fully pegged. As if dofng his cap to literature’s one true inextinguishable lighthouse, Orwell once said, “If there really is such a thing as turning in one’s grave, Shakespeare must get a lot of exercise.”

Exercise that Orwell himself must similarly be getting since having passed away in 1950. And as if talking on behalf of each of the above luminaries, Maugham himself once defantly refected, “If truth is a value, it is because it is true and not because it is brave to speak it.”

Northern NSW hospitals praised for ‘kind and caring’ care in state-wide patient survey

Jef Gibbs

Northern NSW hospitals have been recognised among the state’s best for compassionate, wellorganised care, with the latest Bureau of Health Information (BHI) Adult Admitted Patient Survey showing strong results across the district.

Overall, 93% of Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) respondents rated their hospital care as “very good” or “good”, edging past the NSW average of 92%. Almost all patients rated their nurses (96%) and doctors (95%) positively, and 89% said the care they received was “kind and caring”. Staf were also credited for teamwork and organisation, with districtwide scores signifcantly above the state average.

NNSWLHD Chief Executive Tracey Maisey said the results refect the district’s focus on patient-

centred care. “People are often at their most vulnerable in hospital, so to know our doctors and nurses are so highly regarded by our patients is extremely heartening,” she said, thanking staf for their “kindness and compassion” and the 2,401 patients who provided feedback.

Standout performers Murwillumbah District Hospital was a clear highachiever, recording 34 measures signifcantly above the NSW average.

Ninetyseven per cent of patients rated their overall care as “very good” or “good”; 98% rated nurses positively and 96% rated doctors positively. Notably, 96% said health professionals were always kind and caring—equal highest in the state—and 96% felt they were always treated with respect and dignity. More than nine in ten (92%) would speak highly of their experience to family and friends.

Casino & District Memorial Hospital also excelled, with 22 measures above the state average spanning overall care, trust and confdence, respect and kindness, communication, organisation of care, and cleanliness. Ninetythree per cent of patients rated their overall care positively, with strong results for doctors (95%) and nurses (96%); 91% said they were always treated with respect and dignity, and 89% said care was always kind and caring.

High marks across the district

Grafton Base Hospital: 94% rated overall care positively; doctors 97%, nurses 96%; 91% always treated with respect and dignity; 88% said care was always kind and caring.

Lismore Base Hospital: 94% rated overall care positively; doctors 97%, nurses 98%; 91% said care was always kind and caring. Lismore recorded

seven measures signifcantly above the NSW average.

Maclean District Hospital: 93% rated overall care positively; nurses 96%, doctors 94%; 92% always treated with dignity and respect; 91% said care was always kind and caring.

Tweed Valley Hospital: 92% rated overall care positively; doctors 92%, nurses 94%; 89% always treated with respect and dignity; 84% said care was always kind and caring.

Byron Central Hospital:

88% rated overall care positively; doctors 96%, nurses 89%; 83% always treated with respect and dignity; 82% said care was always kind and caring.

Ballina District Hospital: 77% rated overall care “very good”; 97% rated nurses and 96% rated doctors positively; 91% always treated with respect and dignity; 90% said care was always kind and caring. Ballina recorded seven measures signifcantly above the state average.

The BHI’s Adult Admitted Patient Survey captures patient experiences across key aspects of care—from communication and involvement in decisionmaking to respect, cleanliness and coordination. This year’s results suggest Northern NSW hospitals are not only delivering high clinical standards but doing so with courtesy, dignity and compassion— qualities patients say matter most when they need them most.

Murwillimbah Hospital nurses

Far North Coast Law Society Backs Fletcher Street Cottage with $5,000 Donation

Robert Heyward

The Far North Coast Law Society (FNCLS) has donated $5,000 to Fletcher Street Cottage, a vital Byron Bay service supporting locals experiencing hardship, including insecure housing, fnancial stress, and legal issues.

The contribution will help fund essentials such as meals, showers, laundry facilities, legal aid, and caseworker support for the more than 900 people who access the service each month – about 70 per day. Operated by the Byron Community Centre, Fletcher Street Cottage ofers a safe, welcoming environment alongside

Lismore’s

Jef Gibbs

Lismore’s long-awaited $3.9 million skatepark has ofcially opened on the corner of Dawson and Uralba Streets, delivering a state-of-the-art facility for the region’s growing skating community.

Featuring both “street” and “park” (bowl) sections, a covered mini ramp, and a memorial rail dedicated to the late Travis Watson — a much-loved skater, mentor and local advocate — the venue is now part of the Lismore Regional Sports Hub.

wraparound support.

FNCLS Chair, Yasmin Dulley, Principal Solicitor at Byron Family Law, said the donation refects the legal profession’s commitment to care and community.

“Lawyers often work behind the scenes to uphold justice, but this was a chance for us to show up visibly and meaningfully,” she said. “Fletcher Street Cottage is a lifeline for vulnerable people, and we’re proud to support the incredible team that holds it together.”

FNCLS board members recently toured the service to meet staf and learn more about its frontline work.

Aran Matkevich, from the Northern Rivers

Community Legal Centre, provides outreach services at Fletcher Street Cottage on the last Tuesday of each month.

“Our presence here allows legal support to reach society’s most vulnerable,” he said. “The partnership with Cottage staf ensures we can connect – and stay connected – with our clients.”

Manager Damian Farrell said onsite legal advice is crucial.

“Many people here face complex legal issues, from tenancy disputes to family law matters,” he explained. “Providing advice in a familiar setting removes barriers and helps people get timely support.”

Byron Community Centre

Relationships Manager Bec Robinson said demand for assistance is rising.

“We’ve seen a sharp increase in people needing help due to the cost-ofliving crisis and housing shortages,” she said.

“FNCLS’s support helps us respond quickly to urgent needs and reminds people they are not alone.”

Fletcher Street Cottage receives no ongoing government funding, relying on donors, local organisations, and community partnerships to keep services running.

“Support from the legal community ensures we can continue standing alongside our community when it matters most,” Mr Farrell added.

Skatepark Ofcially Opens

Designed and built by leading skatepark specialists CONVIC, the project was funded under Round 2 of the NSW Government’s Multi-Sport Community Facility Fund. Extensive consultation with council, local skaters, sporting bodies, and professional

fgures including Olympic skateboarding judge Renton Millar ensured the park meets community needs while also being capable of hosting national and international competitions.

Minister for Recovery, North Coast and Lismore MP Janelle Safn said the facility was an enduring tribute to Watson’s vision.

“This modern, inclusive, and girl-friendly design refects the passion and dedication of our local skating community and the commitment to making it safe, visible, and welcoming,” Ms Safn said.

NSW Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said the project demonstrates the

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Minns Labor Government’s commitment to sporting infrastructure.

“It supports participation from beginners through to elite competitors,” he said.

Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg said the facility would keep young skaters closer to home while boosting the local economy.

“Built to a world-class standard, it will attract major competitions and bring visitors who will spend money in our local businesses,” he said.

Council has worked with event organisers to develop a calendar of competitions and community activities to ensure the skatepark remains a vibrant and well-used space for years to come.

Whether it was a statement of irony or one of life’s coincidences, Colin O’Neill was admitted to practice as a barrister and solicitor on April Fools Day back in 1996. His specialty in law for the next 25 years would be in the areas of family violence, crime and industrial relations.

Colin approaches his many experiences in the legal feld with humour and compassion and is very humble, often treating the reader to insights of what it is like to appear in court for the frst time, or how to deal or not deal with a grumpy judge.

Colin shares many tales on some of the people he

had the ...um...privilege of representing.

Covid and its many lockdowns was another experience for the legal profession and despite everyone being in isolation, justice must still be served.

Colin outlines many of the challenges this caused him.

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Lismore’s $3.9 Million Skatepark Ofcially Opens

Kyogle Council Adopts 10Year Strategic Roadmap

Kyogle Council has formally adopted its Community Strategic Plan 2025–2035 (CSP), a comprehensive 10-year roadmap developed in close consultation with residents to shape the future of the Kyogle Local Government Area (LGA).

Endorsed unanimously at the 11 August council meeting, the CSP sets out a vision that balances the protection of Kyogle’s natural environment, community spirit and rural character with sustainable growth to boost jobs, attract investment, and expand housing options for current and future residents.

Back to Basics and Building for the Future

Mayor Cr Danielle Mulholland said the plan focuses on delivering essential services such as improved roads, reliable communications, well-maintained public spaces, and quality community facilities.

“The CSP is Council’s highest-level strategic plan and underpins our budget, four-year delivery program and Long Term Financial Plan,” Cr Mulholland said. “It refects what

the community told us matters most – and how we can work together to achieve it.”

Developed over six months, the CSP process included a communitywide survey and nine public meetings and drop-in sessions held across Kyogle and its villages, ensuring residents from all corners of the LGA had the opportunity to contribute.

Cr Mulholland emphasised that the plan’s success depends on collective action.

“When the CSP talks about ‘we’ and ‘our’, it’s not just about Council – it’s the whole community, including local residents, other levels of government, businesses, and the notfor-proft sector,” she said.

“I encourage everyone to read the CSP to understand our shared priorities and how we can work together to make them a reality.”

The Kyogle Community Strategic Plan 2025–2035 is available to view on the Integrated Planning and Reporting section of Council’s website: www.kyogle.nsw.gov. au/council-engagement/ integrated-planning-andreporting.

Final Flightpath Design Confirmed for Ballina Byron Gateway Airport

Robert Heyward

Airservices Australia has fnalised the new fightpath design for Ballina Byron Gateway Airport, with changes set to take efect from 11 June 2026 to support the introduction of controlled airspace in the region.

The upgrade will transition Ballina from its current uncontrolled airspace — where pilots manage separation through visual observation, radio communication, and fight information — to a system where all aircraft movements are directed by Airservices’ approach and aerodrome control services.

Under the new arrangements, Standard Instrument Departures (SIDs) and Standard

Instrument Arrivals (STARs) will guide aircraft into and out of the airport. Often described as “roads in the sky”, these defned routes are designed to improve trafc fow, enhance safety, and deliver more predictable operations.

Communities in and around Ballina, Alstonville, and other nearby areas may notice changes in aircraft movements once the system is introduced.

Airservices Australia

Head of Community Engagement Donna Marshall said the fnal design was shaped by a combination of safety priorities, operational efciency, and environmental considerations.

“Our airspace modernisation program is focused on improving the safety and efciency of Australia’s regional

airports, while making these destinations more accessible for the aviation industry,” Ms Marshall said.

“Listening to community feedback was a key part of the process, and we worked to minimise noise impacts where possible. The preferred design we’re implementing was well received during our second engagement round.”

Ms Marshall said Airservices will continue to update the community ahead of the changes and provide clear channels for feedback once the new fightpaths are in operation.

Further information on the upcoming changes is available via the Airservices Australia Engage portal.

Koalas Face Extinction by 2050 Without Urgent Action

Robert Heyward

Koalas on Australia’s east coast could be extinct by 2050 without decisive intervention, yet a new national survey commissioned by Australia Post and WWF-Australia shows many Australians remain unaware of the crisis.

For Northern Rivers residents—living alongside vital koala habitats—supporting conservation eforts is critical to ensuring our most iconic species survives.

To tackle the decline,

Australia Post and WWFAustralia have joined forces to protect and restore koala habitats. Their long-term aim is to double koala numbers across eastern Australia by 2050 Over the past 20 years, east coast koala populations have dropped by more than 50%, driven by bushfres, habitat loss and disease. Despite this, 40% of Australians believe enough is being done to protect koalas and their homes.

Survey Highlights

l 65% of Australians

think koalas are only “somewhat” at risk or not at risk at all.

l Almost 1 in 3 have never seen a koala in the wild.

l 73% don’t know how many koalas remain in Australia.

l Nearly 60% have never taken any action to support koala conservation.

The survey found the strongest conservation engagement in the Northern Territory, Tasmania and the ACT, where 47% of respondents actively support protection eforts.

They were followed by South Australia (44%), NSW (38%), Queensland (37%), WA (31%) and Victoria (28%).

WWF-Australia and Australia Post are urging Australians to get involved—whether by planting trees, supporting habitat restoration, reporting sightings, or donating to conservation programs.

For the Northern Rivers, protecting koalas means safeguarding one of the region’s most important natural treasures for future generations.

Jeff Gibbs

Community Invited to Vote for Tweed

Sustainability Awards People’s Choice 2025

Thirty-three local groups and individuals have been recognised for their environmental achievements as nominees in the 2025 Tweed Sustainability Awards –and now residents are being asked to choose the winner of the coveted People’s Choice Award

Launched in 2019, the biennial awards celebrate innovative and practical actions that improve the Tweed’s environment.

This year marks the fourth edition of the event, which will see winners announced across nine judged categories plus the People’s Choice at a showcase evening on Wednesday 15 October 2025

Voting for the People’s Choice is now open and closes at midnight on Sunday 14 September

Tweed locals can view nominee profles on the Tweed Shire Council website before casting their single vote.

Diverse Sustainability Eforts on Show

The 2025 nominees represent a broad spectrum of environmental initiatives, including: Neighbours working together to create sustainable public walkways

Backyard wildlife habitats featuring native plants and bird shelters

Repurposing by-product waste into eco-friendly goods

Businesses installing solar panels to cut energy use

Composting to support school gardens and reduce landfll

Promoting eco-tourism across the Tweed Embedding sustainable agriculture into everyday farming

Inspiring and educating young people about the environment

Weed control, tree planting, and protecting endangered species in

Lismore Flood Recovery Reaches Major Milestone with $17 Million Roadworks Boost

Robert Heyward

Lismore’s long-term recovery from the catastrophic 2022 foods has reached a major milestone, with a multimillion-dollar contract awarded to restore the region’s most damaged roads.

A joint venture between CMC Group and JF Hull Holdings will deliver the largest road restoration package in the Lismore local government area, repairing more than 60 landslips to reconnect towns and improve road

safety.

The three-year program will be staged to minimise disruption and will draw heavily on a locally based workforce, ensuring economic benefts fow back into the community.

The works form part of a broader recovery efort, with more than 50 road and transport infrastructure projects already completed, and nearly 140 others underway or in planning.

Some projects were delayed or further damaged by the severe weather brought by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred in March 2025.

The contract is jointly funded by the Commonwealth and NSW Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

In addition, close to $17 million in new funding has been allocated to Lismore City Council through the Regional Roads and Transport Recovery Package and DRFA’s Essential Public Asset Reconstruction program. This will include replacing several causeways to better withstand future foods.

Federal Minister for

Emergency Management

Kristy McBain said the project marked an important step in Lismore’s recovery.

“By investing in resilience, we’re not just fxing what is broken –we’re building back better to protect local residents from future food events,”

Ms McBain said.

State Member for Lismore and Minister for Recovery and the North Coast, Janelle Safn, said the region was “getting its old mojo back”.

“Our mission is to rebuild with resilience so our

conservation areas

Celebrating Community

Leadership

Tweed Shire Mayor

Chris Cherry praised the nominees for their creativity, commitment, and lasting impact.

“I’m truly impressed by the creativity and impact demonstrated by this year’s nominees,” Cr Cherry said.

“The quality of nominees refects diverse sustainability eforts in education, conservation, business innovation and

community projects. I particularly enjoy how nominees have harnessed their passion and dedication to deliver meaningful projects that have a real and lasting impact on the environment.”

The awards are judged by an independent panel, with the People’s Choice decided entirely by public vote.

For more information and to vote, visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/ sustainabilityawards

infrastructure is ready for the challenges ahead,” she said.

NSW Minister for Roads and Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison, highlighted the scale of the government’s commitment.

“The Minns Labor Government has quadrupled disaster recovery funding, and this

contract to repair a further 60 landslips will keep up the momentum for action,” she said.

Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg said the works would reconnect villages and support the local economy.

“Lismore is not just rebuilding – we are rising,” he said.

South Beach Road Upgrade Nears Completion in Brunswick Heads

Robert Heyward

The $2.7 million upgrade of South Beach Road in Brunswick Heads is entering its fnal week, with the revitalised foreshore route now in its best shape in years.

Commencing in early February, the project has delivered a completely rebuilt road servicing

the popular South Beach precinct and Torakina Beach car park. Council also took the opportunity to carry out much-needed resealing works on South Beach Lane, with the frst coat completed last week. The fnal sealing will be applied during warmer weather to ensure the best surface quality. Phil Holloway, Byron

Shire Council’s Director of Infrastructure Services, said the project has been a major undertaking.

“The reconstruction of South Beach Road has been a huge job and we’re proud to be delivering this beautiful, smooth road on time and within budget, thanks to the expertise of our Council teams and

funding partners,” Mr Holloway said.

Funding for the works included $1 million from the NSW Government as part of the $25 million Election Commitment Grant Program, $500,000 from the Australian Government’s Roads to Recovery program, and $1.2 million from Byron Shire Council

Mr Holloway noted that the scope of the upgrade had been clearly outlined from the outset to ensure the project remained on budget. However, there is potential for future staged improvements, including:

= Footpaths

= Bollards

= Additional parking

= Pedestrian crossings

= Street and public space

lighting

= Toilet upgrades

= These enhancements would require consultation with Crown Lands, Native Title owners, and the community, as well as additional grant funding. For more details on the project, visit www.byron. nsw.gov.au/south-beachroad

Team Koala – one of 33 groups and individuals nominated for Council's 2025 Tweed Sustainability Awards.

Tweed City Shopping Centre has been nominated for an award for installing a new solar system, diverting waste and embedding ethical and local practices across delivery.

Times The Northern Rivers Times

ENTERTAINMENT

August 21st 2025

Freakier Friday (2025)

More than two decades after Freaky Friday delighted audiences, Disney has pulled the magical fortune cookie out of the jar again with Freakier Friday. This time, the body-swapping antics multiply, taking the chaos to new—and sometimes absurd—heights. Directed by Nisha Ganatra, the sequel reunites Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis while introducing a fresh cast of younger stars, creating a multi-generational comedy aimed squarely at fans of the original and curious newcomers alike.

Returning Faces and Newcomers

Jamie Lee Curtis reprises her role as Tess Coleman, now a lively podcaster, and Lindsay Lohan returns as her daughter Anna, who has grown into a confdent manager and mother. The

easy chemistry and playful banter between the two remain the heart of the flm, giving it the warmth that fans remember from 2003.

Joining them are Julia Butters as Harper and Sophia Hammons as Lily, Anna’s teenage daughter and Tess’s soon-to-be stepdaughter. These two become central to the mayhem when an accidental quadruple body swap forces all four women to walk in each other’s shoes— sometimes literally in illftting heels. Manny Jacinto adds charm as Eric, Anna’s fancé, whose patience is tested by the bizarre events unfolding around him. The supporting cast includes returning favourites Mark Harmon, Chad Michael Murray, Rosalind Chao, Stephen Tobolowsky, Christina Vidal Mitchell,

and Haley Hudson.

Long-time fans will also appreciate a cheeky cameo by Elaine Hendrix from The Parent Trap, a nod to Lohan’s earlier work.

Plot with a Twist

Set in present-day Los Angeles, the story fnds Tess and Anna preparing for a wedding that will merge their families. But when an amateur psychic meddles in their lives, the original mother-daughter body swap curse is reawakened—only this time, it expands to include Harper and Lily. What follows is a whirlwind of mismatched identities, romantic misunderstandings, and slapstick mishaps as each character learns unexpected lessons from walking in another’s life. The quadruple swap adds a new layer of comedic confusion. From Tess

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A Nostalgia Trip with a Chaotic Twist

attempting to navigate teenage high school life to Harper dealing with the responsibilities of adulthood, the situations grow increasingly ridiculous yet heartfelt. While the flm sometimes struggles to juggle so many perspectives, the emotional payofs keep it grounded.

Behind the Scenes

The screenplay, written by Jordan Weiss with Elyse Hollander and based on a story by Mary Rodgers, blends modern humour with callbacks to the original flm. Ganatra’s direction leans into physical comedy and quick-fre dialogue, keeping the pace brisk. With a runtime of 111 minutes, Freakier Friday balances high-energy scenes with tender family moments. The production budget of around US $42 million is put to good use in colourful set pieces, particularly during the wedding sequences.

Critical Reception Reviews have been mixed but generally positive for fans of the franchise.

Entertainment Weekly awarded it an A-, praising the updated generational humour and the chemistry between Lohan and Curtis. Empire Online applauded the leads for elevating the material with warmth and charisma. The Movieblog

described it as “warm, witty, and wonderfully weird,” noting it stands out in a year crowded with underwhelming nostalgia sequels.

However, not all critics were convinced. The Australian called it overcomplicated, with too many plot threads crowding the charm of the original premise. Others felt the quadruple swap occasionally muddied the narrative. Still, even the harsher reviews acknowledged the flm’s family-friendly appeal.

Fun Facts for Fans

Disney packed the flm with Easter eggs, including a playful nod to “Mean Girls Day” (October 3) and subtle winks to other Lohan projects. Chad Michael Murray shared in interviews that his on-screen reunion with Lohan brought back memories of their “frst

on-screen kiss” during the original flm.

Jamie Lee Curtis, celebrating nearly 50 years in the business, has embraced the sequel as part of a late-career resurgence, proving she still has impeccable comedic timing. Final Verdict Freakier Friday delivers exactly what it promises—a feel-good, family-friendly romp with a generous dose of nostalgia. While the quadruple body swap may overwhelm the plot at times, the performances from Lohan, Curtis, and the younger cast make it a fun ride. For Australian audiences who grew up with the original, this sequel ofers both a trip down memory lane and a fresh spin for a new generation. It’s freakier, messier, and yes, sometimes sillier—but that’s exactly the point.

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.

1 Larry Linville was best known for his role in which classic TV series?

(a) Bonanza (b) The Beverly Hillbillies (c) M*A*S*H (d) Bewitched

2 Harrisburg is the capital city of which US state?

(a) Pennsylvania (b) West Virginia (c) Ohio (d) South Dakota

3 Which one of the following explorers accompanied George Bass on the voyage of the Tom Thumb in 1795?

(a) Dirk Hartog (b) James Cook (c) Abel Tasman (d) Matthew Flinders

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 ERISTIC

(a) Controversial

(b) Causing erosion

(c) Learned or scholarly

2 FRACAS

(a) The ratio between any two numbers

(b) A disorderly disturbance

(c) The monetary unit of Belgium

3 JUDICATURE

(a) The administration of justice

(b) The Jewish religion

(c) A place of joining or meeting

4 RESONANT

(a) Skilful in overcoming difficulties

(b) Disposed to be silent

(c) Resounding or re-echoing

5 VISCOUS

(a) Unpleasantly severe

(b) Sticky

(c) Having to do with sight

4 Mount Kilimanjaro is located in which African country?

(a) Tanzania (b) Zambia (c) Zimbabwe (d) Lesotho

5 Makybe Diva was born in which country?

(a) Australia (b) United Kingdom (c) New Zealand (d) United States

6 Isaac Newton divided the visible rainbow spectrum into seven colours. Which colour lies in the middle?

(a) Green (b) Blue (c) Yellow (d) Indigo

WEEKLY CROSSWORD

BEST ON THE BOX

SATURDAY

GUY MONTGOMERY’S GUY MONT SPELLING BEE (NZ)

ABC ENTERTAINS, 8.05pm

It’s a testament to the brilliance of this comedic game show that it doesn’t matter whether the panellists are household names (Rove McManus, Tom Gleeson and Urzila Carlson have all appeared in the Aussie version), upand-coming talents or – in this case – comedians from New Zealand that local audiences have likely never heard of. It’s hilarious viewing, regardless of who’s behind the podiums. Newly minted Logie winner Guy Montgomery (pictured, above left) is assisted in this edition by the deadpan delight Sanjay Patel (pictured, above right). Tonight, they welcome contenders Pax Assadi, Justine Smith and Robbie Nicol to try and take down the carryover champ.

FRIDAY, August 22

SUNDAY I, JACK WRIGHT

ABC TV, 8.55pm

An outstanding ensemble drama from Unforgotten creator Chris Lang, this new series proves that where there’s a will, there’s a family. It’s not long after the titular businessman (Trevor Eve) apparently commits suicide that his many wives and children begin clamouring for their share of his estate. You might need a chart to keep track of everyone: John Simm, Daniel Rigby, Ruby Ashbourne Serkis, Gemma Jones, Zoë Tapper, Sabrina Bartlett and Nikki Amuka-Bird portray the extended Wright clan. As the bombshell contents of Jack’s recently made will bring out the worst in everyone, the saga catches the eye of DCI Hector Morgan (Harry Lloyd, pictured), who opens an investigation into Jack’s suspicious death.

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Planet America. (R) 10.30 The Paci c. 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 The Family Next Door. (Mls, R) 1.55 Grand Designs Australia. (PG, R) 2.55 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (R) 4.10 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Susan Calman’s Grand Day Out. (PG, R) 9.50 Rick Steves’ Europe. (PGa, R) 10.50 Being Beethoven. (PGa,

6.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Gardening Australia. Tammy Huynh makes mini greenhouses.

8.30 Professor T. (Ma) Professor T is called upon when a librarian is poisoned at a drinks reception at the museum.

9.20 Hard Quiz: Battle Of The Fuddy Duds. (PGs, R) Tom Gleeson welcomes back four returning retirees for a second chance at winning the big brass mug.

9.50 Shaun Micallef’s Eve Of Destruction. (PG, R) Hosted by Shaun Micallef.

10.25 ABC Late News.

10.45 Austin. (PG, R)

11.15 Silent Witness. (Ma, R)

12.15 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: A airs. A look at scandalous historic royal a airs.

9.20 Britain’s Most Luxurious Train Journeys: Snowdonia. (R)

10.15 SBS World News Late.

10.45 Catch Me A Killer. (Malv)

11.40 The Shelter. (MA15+av, R)

1.15 Romulus. (Masv, R)

3.10 Great Irish Interiors. (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.

VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 11.35 Fizzy And Suds. 12.55pm Mecha Builders. 2.15 Thomas And Friends. 2.40 Pop Paper City. 3.00 Play School. 4.10 Andy’s Aquatic 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. 8.00 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.30 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars. 9.55 Merlin. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)

WEDNESDAY

DNA JOURNEY

SBS, 8.30pm

Newly retired Olympic champions, ice

of Nottingham named after the pair, with streets titled “Torville Drive”, “Dean Close” and “Bolero Square”. Having skated together for decades, the partners know almost everything there is about each other. In this UK series, they’re on a mission to discover the facts that are a mystery even to themselves – a process that will bring them closer than ever. On the trail of their most interesting relatives, they discover a pioneering unionist, a fellow sporting star and a distant cousin with more than one surprising connection to the iconic duo.

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

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs.

8.30 MOVIE: Enemy Of The State. (1998, Mlv, R) A lawyer becomes the target of a corrupt government agent after he gains possession of a valuable videotape. It appears the only chance he has to regain his former life lies with an ex-intelligence operative. Will Smith, Gene Hackman, Jon Voight.

11.15 To Be Advised.

12.15 Touching Evil. (MA15+av) The OSC travels to the Paci c Northwest.

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 25. Melbourne Storm v Canterbury Bulldogs. From AAMI Park, Melbourne.

9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Melbourne Storm versus Canterbury Bulldogs match, with news and analysis.

10.45 MOVIE: Rush Hour. (1998, Mlv, R) Two mismatched cops must learn to get along when they are teamed up to nd a kidnap victim. Jackie Chan, Chris Tucker.

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)

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

8.30 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Celebrity panellists compete to see who can remember the most about events of the week. 9.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Mls, R) Celebrity guests include Daniel Craig. 10.40 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather.

10 News+. (R)

The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 6am Morning Programs. Noon DW The Day. 12.30 The Language Of Love. 2.15 Roswell: The First Witness. 3.05

The Great Outdoors. 4.00 Animal Rescue. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs. 6am Shopping. 8.00 Navigating

6am The Four

7MATE (64) SBS MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 1.20pm The Assembly. 2.05 ER. 2.50 Heartbreak High. 3.35 Richard Osman’s House Of Games. 4.05 Would I Lie To You? 4.40

Musketeers: Revenge Of Milady. (1974, PG) 8.00 The Movie Show. 8.35 Sidonie In Japan. (2023, PG, French) 10.20 Dog Day Afternoon. (1975, M) 12.35pm Tudawali. (1987, M) 2.15 The Band’s Visit. (2007, PG, Arabic) 3.50 The Last Wave. (1977, PG) 5.50 What We Did On Our Holiday. (2014, PG) 7.40 Driving Miss Daisy. (1989) 9.30 Trespass Against Us. (2016, MA15+) 11.25 Speak No Evil. (2022, MA15+) 1.15am Perrier’s Bounty. (2009, MA15+) 2.50 Late Programs. 5.55 The Movie Show.

9GO! (83)

6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 Cards And Collectables Australia. 8.30 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family. 10.00 Bewitched. 10.30 Jeannie. 11.00 The West Wing. 12.10pm MOVIE: The Watcher In The Woods. (2017, M) 2.00 Golden Girls. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30

COMEDY (52)

TARGET TIME

C O

S U F

R

E I

Today’s target: 11 words average 16 words good 21+ 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

ARIES (Mar 21 - Apr 19)

New Moon week is the ideal time to ditch bad habits and start afresh. It’s a juggle to get everything done but keep calm and don’t lose your cool! You’re unusually focused, but are you focusing on the right things? Work, health, wellbeing, diet and fitness are the main areas where you need to make some overdue changes and adjustments. But – if you are too hasty and hot-headed – you could find yourself in the middle of an argument, an accident or a crisis of confidence.

TAURUS (Apr 20 - May 20)

The New Moon highlights children, teenagers, friendships and leisure activities. There are also opportunities for advancement via connections within your local community, especially if you are collaborative. It will take creative teamwork and sustained effort to turn a lucky break into a long-term success. It’s also time to get some firm direction, as you formulate your personal goals and dreams for the future. Remember – you can’t hit a target if you haven’t got one.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 20)

This week the Sun, New Moon and Uranus activate your home zone. A fresh domestic start is likely –but there could be surprises, hiccups or disruptions along the way. Some possible scenarios – problems with a housemate, a real estate sale falls through, a house move is delayed, or a family member behaves in an unpredictable way. Whatever happens – expect the unexpected! Monday is the best day for socialising, creative ideas and lively communication.

CANCER (June 21 - July 22)

The New Moon highlights a fresh start involving communication, education, local travel, a relative or neighbour. And, with vivacious Venus and lucky Jupiter both jumping through your sign, there’s never been a better time to be more charming, more sociable, more beautiful, more loving and more generous. Your mantra for the moment is from birthday great, fashion designer and style icon Coco Chanel: “A girl should be two things –classy and fabulous.”

LEO (July 23 - Aug 22)

The Sun (your ruling planet), New Moon and Sun/ Uranus square shine a bright spotlight on money matters. Lavish Lions are drawn to luxury-living, and you’re inclined to buy expensive things that you don’t really need. This week, do your best to avoid being an impulsive binge shopper. Spontaneous spending sprees now could lead to financial headaches later. The more creatively and proactively you nurture your nest egg, the more it will gradually grow.

VIRGO (Aug 23 - Sep 22)

The silvery New Moon lights up your sign, Virgo, so it’s the perfect week to update your wardrobe, change your appearance, launch a project, apply for a job or start a new phase of your life. Personal projects, ambitious goals and dynamic friendships are also highlighted. On Sunday, too much nervous energy and impatience could disrupt a burgeoning work project or a professional partnership, as the Sun/Uranus square shakes up your career zone.

LIBRA (Sep 23 - Oct 22)

This week dynamic Mars is charging through your sign – and the New Moon lights up your solitude and contemplation zones. So, it will be a delicate balancing act between proactively making things happen and taking the time to relax and slow down. If anyone can manage a tricky juggle, it’s the sign of Libra (symbolised by The Scales, signifying balance and harmony). But expect some disruptions on Sunday, especially if you are travelling.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 - Nov 21)

Saturday’s New Moon highlights your hopes-andwishes zone, so be proactive about setting goals, dreaming dreams and creating your preferred future. It’s also a good week to fire up an old friendship or heal a troubled relationship. Positive changes are coming, so focus on exciting projects that make your heart sing. As the Sun moves into Virgo, keep things simple! Be inspired by birthday great, Coco Chanel: “Simplicity is the keynote of all true elegance.”

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 - Dec 21)

Have you been dragging your heels at work? Your career is set to improve, as the late week New Moon signals an exciting new chapter. So, make the most of any fresh ideas, professional projects or job opportunities that come your way. But the Sun/Uranus square increases exuberance and decreases patience. So slow down and be careful you don’t overindulge, over-exaggerate, overpromise or overcommit, especially involving relationships and work.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 - Jan 19)

The New Moon activates your education and adventure zones, so start thinking about what you’d like to learn and where you’d like to travel in the future. But Uranus disrupts the applecart on Sunday, when you may have to rearrange your daily routine or change your work plans. Don’t get cranky, Capricorn! Be inspired by singer, songwriter and musician Tori Amos (who turns 62 on Friday): “Sometimes you have to do what you don’t like to get to where you want to be.”

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 - Feb 18)

Each New Moon indicates a shift of gear in a particular area of life. This week the heavens highlight a fresh start involving money, an intimate relationship or trust issues. You’ll feel restless, so it’s a good time to travel, experiment and explore. You’ll also be extra curious as you dig up gossip, uncover a secret or start a few controversial conversations! However – if you are too blunt and impatient with loved ones – expect some surprising blowback.

PISCES (Feb 19 - Mar 20)

Monday’s lively stars will pique your Piscean curiosity. Then Saturday’s New Moon encourages you to get a burgeoning romance, business partnership or joint venture moving. Are you unhappily single and searching for love? Be on the lookout for a creative thinker who is a good talker. Your motto for the week is from writer Dorothy Parker (who was born on August 22, 1893): “The cure for boredom is curiosity. There is no cure for curiosity.”

Joanne Madeline Moore

Tyalgum Music Festival 2025 Takes Flight with Birdsong-Inspired Program

Tickets are now on sale for the Tyalgum Music Festival, returning from 26–28 September with a vibrant weekend of performances in the muchloved Tyalgum Community Hall, celebrated for its exceptional acoustics.

This year’s program is inspired by birdsong, with each concert paying musical tribute to our feathered friends.

The festival opens on Friday night with A Night at the Opera, featuring Brisbane’s acclaimed Voxalis Opera in a pocket performance of Mozart’s beloved The Magic Flute. Festival organiser Katharine Willison said bringing Voxalis to Tyalgum was a rare treat:

“The Met, The Royal Opera House, La Scala... and now Tyalgum!”

Saturday begins with a Nature Therapy Walk, followed by a concert from talented students of the Queensland Conservatorium Grifth University. The lunchtime program features two audience favourites—The Lark Ascending, performed by violinist Courtenay Cleary, and Prokofev’s Peter and the Wolf, accompanied by Suzie Templeton’s awardwinning 2006 stop-motion animated flm.

Later, local musician Skye McIntosh returns with the Australian Haydn Ensemble, ofering authentic 18th-

century music on period instruments, before the day closes with Brazilian rhythms from The View From Madeleine’s Couch in a relaxed café-style setting.

On Sunday, internationally renowned guitarist Karin Schaupp and the Riverside Guitar Ensemble open the program, followed by a solo recital from cellist Richard Narroway, presented with Musica Viva Australia. The festival concludes with pianist Alex Raineri, performing a bird-themed program to bring the weekend to a soaring fnale.

Tickets: TryBooking –Tyalgum Music Festival.

Northern Rivers Gears

Up for Late August Entertainment

The Northern Rivers is set to burst into life between 23 August and 4 September 2025, with a mix of craft brews, live music, and vibrant markets.

Kicking of the celebrations on 23 August, the Northern Rivers Brewers Festival will transform Sanctus Brewing Co in Townsend into a paradise for beer lovers. Featuring independent local breweries, the event also ofers live sets from

crowd favourites The Maintenance Men and Woodhill. Street-food stalls will keep tastebuds happy, while a $10 ticket includes your frst drink, and under-18s enter free.

For those who prefer a stroll through market stalls, the Kingsclif Lions Beachside Markets will also run on 23 August, bringing together artisans, produce, and beachside ambience. The following day, 24 August, sees the Bangalow Market at the Showground

and the Yamba River Markets at Ford Park, both ofering handcrafted goods, gourmet treats, and community spirit.

Although just outside the date range, the Byron Markets at Dening Park on 7 September are worth noting for visitors planning an extended stay.

From coastal markets to craft beer celebrations, late August in the Northern Rivers promises a perfect blend of local culture, favours, and entertainment for all ages.

Irish Music Comes Alive at Byron Theatre

Jef Gibbs

This September, the Byron Theatre will host a unique cultural double bill, blending the magic of Irish tradition with world-class live performance. Acclaimed cellist Ilse de Ziah and virtuoso guitarist Ian Date will take audiences on an unforgettable journey through music and storytelling.

The evening begins with a screening of the awardwinning documentary Living the Tradition, followed by a live concert from the duo.

Event

Highlights

Film Screening –Living the Tradition (52 minutes)

De Ziah’s acclaimed

documentary explores the history and heart of traditional Irish Airs. Filmed on location in Ireland, it weaves together stunning landscapes, intimate interviews, and hauntingly beautiful melodies that have shaped the nation’s musical soul.

Live Concert – Ilse de Ziah & Ian Date (50 minutes)

Immediately after the flm, audiences will be treated to an intimate concert fusing Celtic, jazz, and world music infuences with classical sophistication. Their debut album Here & There showcases intricate compositions and breathtaking improvisations, ofering

a fresh and contemporary interpretation of global musical traditions.

Event Details

•Date & Time: Thursday, 11 September, 7:00 PM

•Venue: Byron Theatre, Jonson Street, Byron Bay

•Tickets: $43.85 general admission, $38.85 concession (including booking fee)

•Bookings & Information: Byron Theatre Events

Organisers promise an inspiring evening celebrating Ireland’s living traditions and the artistry of two extraordinary musicians. With flm, live music, and cultural storytelling, this is set to be one of Byron Bay’s most memorable arts events of the year.

RBA Cuts Interest Rates to 3.6% as Economy Slows

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has delivered its third interest rate cut of 2025, lowering the ofcial cash rate by 25 basis points to 3.6% in an efort to stimulate a slowing economy and ease fnancial pressure on households.

The decision, announced following the RBA’s August board meeting, was widely anticipated by economists after key indicators showed infation cooling to 2.1% and unemployment rising to 4.3% – its highest level in three and a half years. Domestic demand has also weakened, with consumers pulling back on spending and business investment softening.

Economic Outlook Downgraded

In its quarterly Statement on Monetary Policy, the RBA revised down its expectations for long-term productivity growth from 1% to 0.7% and trimmed potential GDP growth from 2.25% to 2%. Economic growth for 2025 is now forecast at just 1.7%, down from 2.1% earlier this year. Infation is expected to peak at 3.1% in mid-2026 before gradually falling to 2.5% by the end of 2027. The unemployment rate is projected to remain steady at 4.3%, indicating the RBA sees little near-term improvement in the jobs market despite rate cuts.

RBA Governor Michele

said the bank’s focus was on “supporting sustainable growth” while keeping infation under control. “We are in a period of economic transition,” she said. “While price pressures have eased, the economy is growing more slowly, and labour market conditions have softened. Today’s decision provides additional support for households and businesses.”

More Cuts Likely

Economists expect further monetary easing this year, with forecasts suggesting the cash rate could drop to 3.35% by December and as low as 3.10% by March

2026.

AMP Chief Economist Shane Oliver said the RBA’s latest move was “in line with the softening in economic data” and likely the frst of at least two more cuts. “The slowdown in consumer spending, the easing in infation, and the uptick in unemployment are giving the RBA the green light to keep policy moving in a more supportive direction,” he said.

Impact on Households and the Northern Rivers

For mortgage holders, the cut ofers some relief

after years of rising and then elevated interest rates.

On a $500,000 variable loan, the reduction could save around $80 a month –money that could help ease cost-of-living pressures.

In the Northern Rivers, where property prices have surged over the past fve years and many households are carrying signifcant debt, the rate cut is expected to be welcomed. However, local fnancial advisers warn that banks may not pass on the full reduction immediately, and borrowers should continue to budget cautiously.

For renters, the benefts

may be less direct. Lower interest rates can reduce investor mortgage costs, but strong rental demand and tight vacancy rates in the region mean signifcant rent relief is unlikely in the short term.

Savers will feel the pinch, with deposit rates likely to fall further. This could encourage some to look for higher-yield investments, though these often come with higher risks.

Balancing Act Ahead

The RBA’s challenge remains fnding the right balance between stimulating the economy

and keeping infation within its 2–3% target range. While the latest cut is designed to boost spending and confdence, it could also fuel asset prices if borrowing picks up too quickly. For now, the focus is on supporting growth as Australia navigates a more fragile economic environment. With global trade uncertainties, slower productivity gains, and soft consumer demand, the RBA appears set to keep its foot lightly on the accelerator – a shift that could see interest rates head even lower before the year is out.

Bullock

Jef Gibbs

Nearly Half of Australians Now Work From Home at Least Part-Time

Source: Roy Morgan Single Source: Base: Employed Australians aged 14+ July 2024 to June 2025 (n=41,449). *CBD workers are defned as those employed within the core postcode areas of each capital city: Sydney (2000), Melbourne (3000), Brisbane (4000), Adelaide (5000), Perth (6000), Hobart (7000), Darwin (0800), and Canberra (2601).

Robert Heyward

More than 6.7 million

Australians—46% of the workforce—now work from home at least some of the time, according to new Roy Morgan research. The remaining 54% work entirely inperson.

Cities Lead Remote Work Uptake

Source: Roy Morgan Single Source: Base: Employed Australians aged 14+ July 2024 to June 2025 (n=41,449).

Full-time employees are more likely to enjoy fexible arrangements, with 51% working remotely at least occasionally, compared to 36% of part-time workers.

Capital city residents are far more likely to work from home than those in regional areas. Sydney tops the list with 55% of workers adopting remote arrangements, followed by Melbourne (52%) and Canberra (51%).

Smaller capitals trail slightly—Hobart (45%),

Source: Roy Morgan Single Source: Base: Employed, Aged 14+ July 2024 to June 2025 (n 41,449).

Adelaide (44%), Brisbane (43%) and Perth (40%).

Regional fgures are notably lower, with only 39% in regional NSW and 31% in regional WA working remotely.

CBD Workers

Embrace Hybrid Models

Across Australia’s major CBDs, 60% of workers spend at least some time working remotely. Sydney’s CBD leads at nearly 70%, followed by Melbourne (65%) and Canberra (61%). Brisbane sits at 52% and Hobart at 51%. Perth, Adelaide and Darwin CBDs have more employees working entirely in-person.

Workplace Size Infuences Flexibility Solo operators lead remote work adoption at 55%. In larger organisations, the tipping point comes at 300+ employees, where most staf have some remote

work access—rising to 52% for companies with 1,000 or more workers.

Industry and Income Gaps

Finance and Insurance has the highest remote work rate (66%), followed by Communication (61%) and Property & Business Services (57%). Retail, Recreation & Personal Services, and Transport & Storage have the lowest uptake.

Income strongly infuences remote work availability. Only 25% of workers earning under $6,000 a year work remotely, but rates rise sharply with salary, peaking at 64% for those earning $300,000 or more.

Policy and Economic Implications

Roy Morgan CEO Michele Levine says working from home is now “a permanent and

distinct feature” of the Australian employment landscape. She notes Victoria’s plan to legislate a right to work from home at least two days a week where reasonable, and expects the issue to be a focus at next week’s National Economic Forum Roundtable led by

Treasurer Jim Chalmers. Roy Morgan’s survey of more than 41,000 Australians confrms remote work adoption varies widely by geography, industry, workplace size and income level—factors likely to shape future workplace policies.

Source: Roy Morgan Single Source: Base: Employed, Aged 14+ July 2024 to June 2025 (n 41,449).

Tradies National Health Month 2025:

Urgent call to protect Australia’s tradies

With skilled trade shortages biting hard, the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) is urging tradies to prioritise their health during Tradies National Health Month 2025. Occupational health

physiotherapist Jarryd Croxford said chronic pain and untreated injuries are common among tradies, impacting their performance, quality of life and career longevity.

A 2024 APA survey found 9 in 10 tradies experienced a work-related injury in the past year—

most often to the knees, back and shoulders—with two-thirds concerned about long-term health efects. Many in regional areas face even greater risks due to limited access to physiotherapy and other services.

“Tradies are the backbone of Australia,”

Mr Croxford said. “If they leave the workforce, it afects housing, infrastructure and the economy.”

Physiotherapists regularly treat injuries linked to repetitive bending and heavy lifting, ofering tailored plans to reduce pain

and prevent recurrence.

Nearly two-thirds of tradies who sought physio care reported signifcant improvement.

“Many think aches and pains are just part of the job, but preventive checks can make a huge diference,” Mr Croxford said.

This August, the APA campaign urges tradies to take care of their most important tool—their body—and work with physiotherapists to stay ft, safe and on the job. More information: australian.physio/ campaigns/tradiesnational-health-month

Jef Gibbs

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Egypt

Egypt, often called the “cradle of civilization,” is a country where ancient history meets modern vibrancy. From the majestic Nile River to the bustling streets of Cairo, every corner tells a story thousands of years old. Imagine sailing past temples illuminated by the setting sun, exploring grand pyramids rising out of the desert sands, or wandering vibrant souks flled with colourful spices and handcrafted treasures. Egypt is also home to warm hospitality, exceptional cuisine, and endless adventure. Whether you are a frsttime visitor or a returning traveller, this destination promises an experience that stays with you for a lifetime.

Top 5 Places to Visit

• Giza Plateau: Home to the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx, these iconic monuments are a mustsee.

• Luxor: Explore the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and Luxor Temple – all rich in ancient Egyptian history.

• Aswan: Visit the Philae Temple and take a traditional felucca boat ride on the Nile.

• Cairo: Egypt’s bustling capital features the Egyptian Museum and lively Khan el-Khalili Bazaar.

• Abu Simbel: Marvel at the colossal statues of Ramses II at this incredible UNESCO World Heritage site.

Best Deals and How to Save Money

• Travel during the shoulder seasons (March–May, September–November) for cheaper fights and hotels.

• Book Nile cruises and guided tours in advance for discounted rates.

• Use public transport or shared minibuses instead

of taxis where possible.

• Purchase combination tickets for multiple archaeological sites.

• Haggle politely in markets; it’s expected and can save you a signifcant amount.

5 Travel Tips

• Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

• Stay hydrated but only drink bottled or purifed water.

• Hire certifed guides for historical sites for better insight and security.

• Carry small denominations of Egyptian pounds for tips and small purchases.

• Be prepared for security checks at most tourist attractions and airports.

Best Ways to Get Around

Egypt’s extensive train

•Luxury: The St. Regis Cairo («««««) or Softel Legend Old Cataract Aswan («««««) with rooms from AUD 400+.

•Mid-Range: Steigenberger Luxor (««««) or Hilton Alexandria Corniche (««««) with rooms from AUD 150–250.

•Budget: Hostels and guesthouses like Dahab Hostel Cairo (««) start around AUD 30–50 per night.

Currency & Budget Considerations

The local currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP) Egypt remains an afordable destination; a budget traveller can manage on AUD 50–70 per day, while mid-range travellers might spend AUD 100–150. Luxury travellers can expect AUD 250+ daily, especially when including Nile cruises and high-end dining. Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, though cash is preferred in markets and rural areas.

network connects major cities like Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan afordably. Domestic fights save time on longer distances. For shorter journeys, taxis and ride-hailing apps are available, but always agree on fares in advance if metered options aren’t available. Nile cruises are a unique way to travel between Luxor and Aswan while enjoying breathtaking scenery.

Conclusion

Egypt is a timeless destination where history, culture, and natural beauty converge. From ancient wonders to lively markets and serene river cruises, it ofers something for every traveller. Plan well, travel wisely, and you’ll discover why Egypt remains one of the world’s most treasured holiday spots.

Jef Gibbs

Jeep’s Hemi V8 Makes a Comeback

Now in the Gladiator Too

Jef Gibbs

For a brief moment, it looked like Jeep’s burly, naturally aspirated 6.4-litre Hemi V8 was heading for the history books. The 2024 Wrangler Rubicon 392 Final Edition was set to be its swan song. But Jeep has thrown enthusiasts a lifeline –and a big, roaring one at that. The V8 lives on, the Wrangler 392 isn’t going anywhere, and the Gladiator ute is next in line to get that glorious Hemi heartbeat. This isn’t just a trim update or a marketing gimmick. It’s a recognition of what many Jeep buyers – and petrolheads in general – have been saying for years: torque, sound, and raw displacement still matter.

From “Final Edition” to “Forever?”

The Rubicon 392 was supposed to bow out gracefully, a limited farewell tour for one of the most charismatic engines in Jeep history. Then orders kept coming.

Waiting lists grew. Dealers were felding calls from customers unwilling to trade the throaty V8 rumble for a quieter turbosix.

Jeep’s CEO Bob Broderdorf summed it up perfectly at a recent Detroit media roundtable: “The 6.4-litre Hemi V8 will have a home at Jeep.” That “home” is about to get bigger.

Gladiator Rubicon

392 – The Ute with Bite

The Gladiator, already a capable of-road hauler, will soon pack the same 470 horsepower (350 kW) and 470 lb-ft (637 Nm) torque punch as its Wrangler sibling. That’s supercar-level grunt in a dual-cab ute with solid axles and low-range gearing.

Expect 0–100 km/h times in the mid-

four-second range, a soundtrack that’s equal parts muscle car and Baja racer, and towing numbers to make rivals nervous. Jeep insiders suggest much of the Wrangler 392’s hardware will carry over – from 35-inch allterrain tyres and beadlockcapable wheels to a two-inch factory lift and dual-mode active exhaust.

For the true of-road purists, that means you’ll be able to rock-crawl in

Zeekr’s Super-Hybrid Is Coming to Australia – And It Could Change the Game

Zeekr, the performance-leaning luxury arm of China’s Geely empire, is about to add a serious twist to Australia’s electrifed SUV market. The brand has confrmed that a “Super-Hybrid” plug-in hybrid (PHEV) will arrive here

in 2026—and all signs point to the upcoming 8X SUV as the launch candidate.

This isn’t your average “half-electric, half-petrol” commuter PHEV. Zeekr’s Super-Hybrid tech is pitched at enthusiasts who want brutal acceleration, long electric-only range, and the fexibility to drive anywhere without range anxiety.

From EV-Only to Performance PHEV

Zeekr only landed in Australia in late 2024 with two full-electric oferings: the compact Zeekr X and the plush, six-seat Zeekr 009 people-mover. A mid-size 7X SUV is on the way before the end of 2025.

But now, Zeekr Australia boss Frank Li says it’s time to expand the formula:

“I will bring some demo cars to Australia… we will make a decision based on customer

feedback.”

That decision seems all but made. The 8X—slated for a global reveal in late 2025—will sit above the 7X, targeting premium family SUV buyers who want genuine performance credentials.

The 8X: The Likely Hero Model

the morning, tow your boat in the afternoon, and still have enough left to embarrass sports sedans at the trafc lights.

Why the V8 Still Maters

Sure, electrifcation is coming – even Jeep has plug-in hybrid and EV models in the works.

But the Hemi represents something you can’t measure on an emissions chart. It’s about

the tactile connection between driver and machine. It’s the instant response when you dip into the throttle, the vibration through the steering wheel, and the unmistakable V8 burble that makes pedestrians turn their heads.

For many, it’s the last chance to buy a new vehicle with this kind of old-school muscle without going into collector-car territory.

The Road Ahead

While Zeekr’s jaw-dropping 9X fagship is also under consideration—a Rolls-Roycesized luxury PHEV with 1030 kW, AWD, and a supercarscorching 0–100 km/h time of just over 3 seconds—it’s the 8X that’s tipped to be the volume seller.

Expect the 8X to share the 9X’s technology in a more approachable, mid-to-large SUV body. That means a turbocharged petrol engine paired with high-output electric motors, delivering potent combined outputs, instant torque, and a sizeable

By the time the 8X hits Aussie showrooms in 2026, Zeekr plans to have a solid dealer network and an ambitious goal of 10,000 local EV sales. Adding a halo-level PHEV into the mix could be the hook that brings both petrol loyalists and EV-curious drivers into the fold.

For enthusiasts, the equation is simple: luxury cabin, cutting-edge tech, monster torque, and the freedom to drive it anywhere, any time. The Super-Hybrid era is about to get loud—quietly.

electric-only range—likely well over 100 km in real-world use.

Why Enthusiasts Should Care

Unlike many PHEVs that feel like compromise cars, Zeekr’s approach is pure “no-limits” engineering: l EV range for daily drives

without fuel use.

l Petrol backup for longdistance trips without charging worries.

l Performance that can embarrass sports sedans. And with Zeekr’s global EV success—plus right-hand-drive production built into the plan— the Australian 8X should arrive ready to play hard from day one.

Jef Gibbs

NSW Health Urges Flu Vaccination as Cases Remain High

Despite winter nearing its end, NSW Health is urging people to book in for a fu vaccination as infuenza continues to circulate at high levels across the state.

Jef Gibbs

The latest NSW Respiratory Surveillance Report shows more than 8,200 confrmed infuenza cases in the week ending 2 August. Health authorities say the true number is much higher, as most people with the fu do not get tested.

NSW Chief Health Ofcer Dr Kerry Chant said infuenza remains a serious health threat, even for healthy children and adults.

Free Vaccines for High-Risk

Groups

The fu vaccine is free for:

l Children aged six months to under fve years

l Pregnant women

“Everyone aged six months or older is recommended to get their fu vaccine. Even previously healthy people can experience severe complications from infuenza,” Dr Chant said. She stressed that vaccination is quick, easy, and one of the best defences against infection and severe illness. The fu can cause pneumonia, worsen chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease, and, in some cases, lead to death.

l Aboriginal people aged six months and over

Mental Health Advocates Welcome NSW Loneliness Report

l People aged 65 and over

l People with chronic health conditions

Vaccinations are available through GPs, pharmacies, and Aboriginal Medical Services. Children aged two and over can be vaccinated at pharmacies, while those under two should see their GP. Dr Chant encouraged anyone with non-urgent illness or injury to call Healthdirect on 1800 022 222 for 24/7 advice from a registered nurse.

More information on respiratory illness prevention is available at www.health.nsw.gov.au/ Infectious/respiratory

A leading national mental health organisation has welcomed the fndings of a landmark NSW parliamentary report into the growing social crisis of loneliness.

Australians for Mental Health praised the recommendations handed down this week by the NSW Legislative Council’s Standing Committee on Social Issues, which explored the causes, impacts and prevalence of loneliness across the state. The fnal report recognises loneliness as

a serious and escalating issue, one that is closely tied to mental ill-health, social exclusion and structural disadvantage. It also calls for coordinated government action to tackle the problem over the long term.

National Group Applauds Policy Momentum

Chris Gambian, Executive Director of Australians for Mental Health, said the organisation was “very pleased” to see two of its own proposals refected in the report’s recommendations.

Among the endorsed suggestions were:

l A whole-of-government strategy to combat loneliness over a fveyear period.

l An amendment to the Local Government Act to ensure councils plan for and report on initiatives that promote social connection and reduce isolation.

“Loneliness is a very serious and growing social and health challenge,” said Mr Gambian. “We know from our own polling that one in three Australians feel they’re not getting enough social connection. Connection is good for us—and too many

Australians are missing out.”

He credited the NSW Government, and in particular Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson and MLC Sarah Kaine, for prioritising the issue.

“This report provides a real opportunity to build a framework for lasting change,” he said.

Local Government Key to Lasting Change

Gambian also highlighted the critical role of local councils in addressing the issue.

“Local government

Australians for Mental Health stressed that loneliness remains a national problem requiring broader intervention.

is uniquely placed to understand and respond to the needs of communities,” he said. “They know what works and must be properly resourced to deliver initiatives that foster social connection and prevent loneliness.”

The proposed amendment to the Local Government Act would require councils to embed loneliness prevention in community planning and report on performance outcomes—a move Gambian described as “a meaningful step toward real accountability.”

Next Steps for National Wellbeing

While applauding the NSW report, Australians for Mental Health stressed that loneliness remains a national problem requiring broader intervention.

“This is a welcome step—but we’re just getting started,” Gambian said. “To truly address loneliness, we need to tackle its root causes by nurturing meaningful social bonds across all communities.”

The organisation is urging other states and the federal government to follow NSW’s lead and commit to coordinated strategies that place social connection at the centre of wellbeing policy.

Jef Gibbs

WHATS ON THE MENU

TONIGHT?

It’s so good it could stop a family feud

Alright, my lovelies, get ready because this one’s an absolute BELTER! We’re talking golden, faky pastry on top AND bottom, a creamy, veggiepacked chicken flling that’s like a cuddle from the inside, and it’s so easy you’ll wonder why you’ve been fafng about with salads all these years. Seriously—this Country Chicken Pie is the sort of dinner you serve and people go, “Ohhh, you fancy,” when really you’ve just got a knack for shoving delicious things in pastry.

Ingredients

(Metric – we’re proper grown-ups here)

l 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil

l 600 g chicken thigh fllets, chopped nice and chunky

l 1 leek, white part only, thinly sliced

l 1 carrot, peeled and sliced

l 1 celery stalk, sliced

l ½ red capsicum, chopped (optional but colourful, innit?)

l 2 tbsp (20 g) plain four

l 250 ml chicken stock

l 70 g frozen corn kernels

l 80 g frozen peas

l 60 ml thickened cream

l 1 sheet shortcrust pastry, thawed

l 1 sheet puf pastry, thawed

l 1 egg, lightly whisked (your pastry’s shiny jacket)

l Salt & pepper, to taste

Method – Chaty Chaos Version

1. Chicken Glam Session: Pan on high, bit of oil, chicken in—but don’t chuck it all at once or it’ll sulk and steam. Work in batches, give it a golden tan, set aside.

2. Veggie Spa Day: More oil, in go your leek, carrot, celery (and capsicum if you’re feeling bougie). Give ‘em a stir for 5 mins till soft and smelling AMAZING.

3. Roux Magic: Sprinkle in the four, stir it like you’re auditioning for Bake Of. Pour in the stock—ooh,

Country Chicken Pie – Because Sometimes Salad

Just Won’t Cut It

steamy!—and let it bubble away for 15 mins until thick and lush. In go the peas, corn, cream, salt and pepper. Taste test. Taste test again. Try not to eat it all.

4. Pastry Engineering: Oven on, 220 °C. Shortcrust pastry in your pie dish, fll it up with that glorious chicken mix, puf pastry on top, crimp the edges like you’re sealing a love letter. Egg wash for that Hollywood glow.

5. Bake & Swoon: 15–20 mins until golden, pufed, and everyone within a 3-house radius is snifng the air.

Tips

l Make two—one for now, one for “emergencies.”

l Leftovers are magic reheated the next day (if they survive the night).

l Goes well with mash, chips, or just eaten over the kitchen counter like an animal.

Final Word

This pie isn’t just food—it’s a statement. A faky, creamy, unapologetic middle fnger to boring dinners everywhere. Make it, eat it, and prepare for applause

Baileys Red Velvet Cheesecake – Booze, Biscuits & Bliss

peaks of surrender

l 125 ml Baileys Red Velvet Cupcake Irish cream liqueur, intoxicating as a midnight kiss

She entered my kitchen unannounced—deep crimson, impossibly smooth, and radiating an intoxicating aroma of Baileys. My hands trembled as I reached for her, the cool creaminess of her form promising sinful pleasures. This wasn’t just cheesecake… this was a liaison. A reckless, velvety rendezvous that would ruin me for all other desserts.

Ingredients

(The Objects of Desire)

l 300 g red velvet Oreos, crushed beneath my passionate hands

l 100 g butter, molten gold pooling with temptation

3 tsp gelatine powder, trembling with anticipation

60 ml boiling water, hot and eager

500 g cream cheese, soft and inviting

100 g caster sugar, sweet as a lover’s whisper

l 1 tsp vanilla extract, the scent of seduction

l 300 ml thickened cream, whipped into delicate

l Dried strawberry crisps, the fnal blush before ruin

Method (Our Afair)

1. I pressed the buttery crumbs into the pan, each touch a secret we shared.

2. The gelatine dissolved, swirling like forbidden thoughts.

3. Cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla—beaten until they yielded completely—met the warm embrace of Baileys.

4. I folded in the cream, the gelatine slipping in last, sealing our pact.

5. Into the crust she poured, settling like a lover into silken sheets.

6. Hours later, I crowned her with whipped cream, a Baileys drizzle, and strawberries… and fnally surrendered.

Final Word

This cheesecake is not here to play—it’s here to seduce. Share it… or don’t.

25m 10 Prep Serves

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

active on well-fnished lines, particularly in the steer and heifer pens, while plainer types met more cautious bidding.

Market Summary by Category

• Cows & Calves – 2 head sold, averaging $670/head and topping at $700.

Yarding: 541 head

A yarding of 541 prime cattle was presented this week, with quality mixed across the ofering. Competition remained steady, with prices holding frm to slightly dearer in several categories. Buyers were

Record Lamb Price Achieved as Markets Firm Across the Board

Vendors saw an uplift in prices this week as strong buyer demand from southern states pushed competition higher across most categories. Both cattle and sheep markets were generally frm to dearer, with a new Queensland saleyard record set for lambs at $395/head for 75kg Dorper lambs sold to Fletcher International. Pork numbers remained tight, continuing the strong momentum in prices.

Catle Market Summary

• Bulls – Averaged 329.5c/kg, topping at 450.2c/kg, to a top of $389.

• Cows – Averaged 300.26c/kg, top

• Bullocks – Averaged 363.4c/kg, topping at 384.2c/kg, returning $1,549.49–$2,497.30/head.

• Bulls – Averaged 311.9c/kg, topping at 345.0c/kg, $398.31–$3,282.93/head.

• Cows – Averaged 294.2c/kg, topping at 374.2c/kg, $296.00–$2,488.43/head.

$368.20.

• Feeder Heifers – Averaged 354.39c/kg, topping at $406.20.

• Feeder Steers – Averaged 416.63c/kg, topping at 494.2c/kg.

• Heifers – Averaged 341.7c/kg, topping at 409.2c/kg, returning $1,432.15–

$2,352.90.

• Steers – Averaged 379.46c/kg, topping at 423.2c/kg, returning $2,158.50–$2,750.80.

• Vealer Heifers – Averaged 208.2c/kg, topping at 428.2c/kg, $745.65–$1, 080.54.

• Vealer Steers – Averaged 401.57c/kg, topping at 500.2c/kg, $803.47–$1,283.92.

• Yearling Heifers – Averaged 372.9c/ kg, topping at 434.2c/kg, $1,136.90–$2,060.15.

• Yearling Steers – Averaged 445.8c/ kg, topping at 530.2c/kg, $1,151.26–$1,685.58.

The overall cattle sale average was $1,286.20/head for 1,001 head yarded.

Sheep & Lamb Market

Sheep and lamb numbers lifted to 2,713

• Heifers – Averaged 357.5c/kg, topping at 440.2c/kg, $180.00–$1,503.90/head.

• Steers – Averaged 443.7c/kg, topping at 604.2c/kg, $153.66–$2,155.74/head.

• Vealer Bulls – Averaged 347.3c/ kg, topping at 414.2c/kg, $442.04–$1,373.13/head.

• Yearling Heifers – Averaged 331.3c/ kg, topping at 382.2c/kg, $430.00–$1,987.44/head.

• Yearling Steers – Averaged 333.3c/ kg, topping at 404.2c/kg, $1,106.95–$1,697.64/head.

• Yearlings (Mixed) – 1 head sold at 330.2c/kg, returning $1,304.29.

head, drawn from New England, the South West, Maranoa and local vendors. With trade and export lambs in shorter supply, processors competed fercely, pushing prices higher in several categories.

• Lambs – Topped at $395/head (new Qld record), averaging $209.52/head (down $24).

• Hoggets – Topped at $280, averaging $204.93 (up $30).

• Ewes – Topped at $296, averaging $206.55 (up $87).

• Ram Lambs – Topped at $249, averaging $184.28 (down $33).

• Wethers – Topped at $309, averaging $220.92 (up $56).

The sale average lifted $14/head to $205.45.

Notable Sales

• Thomson Family – Dorset X lambs 54kg to Thomas Foods for $261; 52.5kg to Warwick Meats for $252.

• Jason Skinner – Sufolk lambs 52.5kg shorn to Eversons for $267.

• Bazley Family – Dorset X lambs 54.7kg to Fletcher International for $278.

Overall Sale Figures

• Lowest price: 80.0c/kg

• Highest price: 604.2c/kg

• Overall sale average: 336.7c/kg

• Total yard weight: 368,670 kg

• Total sale value: $1,241,176.17 Well-fnished steers drew the strongest competition, achieving the day’s top rate of 604.2c/kg , while prime cows also sold to solid demand, reaching 374.2c/kg . Heavy bulls found good support from processor buyers, topping at 345.0c/kg

The next Prime Cattle sale at the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange will be held on Wednesday, 20 August 2025

• Phil Stiles – Dorper lambs 75kg to Fletcher International for $395 (record) ; 47kg to Summerville Meats for $237; 86.3kg hoggets to Fletcher for $280; rams to GR Prime for $156.

• JCD Past – Dorper lambs 48kg to McMahon Bros for $266.

• AGR Industries – Dorper lambs 46kg to Eversons for $260; 44.6kg to McMahon Bros for $267.

• Stillwater Pastoral – CFA Dorper ewes to Thomas Foods for $190; to restockers for $132.

• Mandy’s Farm – Sufolk wethers to Fletcher International for $292; ewes to Fletcher for $296.

Pork Market

Numbers lifted slightly:

• Sows – $165–$310

• Barrows – to $175

• Boars – to $75

• Light Pork – $258–$260

• Pork – $225–$325

• Stores – $96–$230 (Chook sale results unavailable at time of report.)

NFF and Samoa Reafrm Commitment to Sustainable PALM Scheme

“We had constructive discussions with Her Excellency, especially around the sustainability of the scheme,” Mr Jochinke added.

Ian Rogers

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) and the Independent State of Samoa have reafrmed their shared commitment to the long-term success and sustainability of the Pacifc Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme, following high-level discussions in Canberra.

NFF President David Jochinke met recently with Samoa’s High Commissioner to Australia, Her Excellency Ms Hinauri Petana, at the Samoan High Commission, where both parties reiterated the value of the PALM scheme to both nations.

Mr Jochinke praised the scheme as a vital link in the Australian agriculture workforce and an essential economic pathway for Pacifc Island nations like Samoa.

“The PALM scheme plays a critical role in addressing workforce shortages in Australian agriculture and providing meaningful economic opportunities for Samoan workers,” Mr Jochinke said.

Both the NFF and the High Commissioner emphasised the importance of ensuring that the PALM scheme continues to meet the evolving needs of workers, employers, and communities in both

countries.

“We had constructive discussions with Her Excellency, especially around the sustainability of the scheme,” Mr Jochinke added.

Her Excellency welcomed the opportunity to engage with the NFF, expressing Samoa’s strong support for strengthening the program and ensuring its enduring value.

“We are proud of the contributions Samoan workers are making in Australia and appreciate the support the sector is providing to them,” she said.

“We must work together to develop a scheme that is enduring, inclusive, and

meets the needs it was designed for.”

The meeting also explored opportunities for deeper cooperation beyond the PALM scheme.

As of May 2025, there were 2,650 Samoan workers participating in the PALM scheme across Australia, providing essential labour to the farming sector while sending valuable income home to support their families and communities. The reafrmed partnership between the NFF and Samoa marks a continued commitment to ethical, efective, and mutually benefcial labour mobility between the Pacifc and Australia.

New Independent Biosecurity Commissioner to Review NSW Catle Tick Program

Ian Rogers

The Minns Labor Government has appointed Dr Katherine Clift as New South Wales’ new Independent Biosecurity Commissioner, with a priority task of examining the state’s century-old Cattle Tick Program.

The role, established following a 2023 election commitment, provides independent, expert advice to guide the state’s biosecurity protection, detection, and response

strategies. In the 2025–26 budget, the Government allocated a record $1.05 billion to safeguard primary industries and strengthen economic growth.

Dr Clift, who has held senior biosecurity leadership positions in Victoria, Western Australia, and internationally, will begin her three-year term on 1 September 2025. She succeeds Dr Marion Healy, who concluded her tenure early for personal reasons after delivering

two key reports on pest, weed, and invasive species management now under government consideration.

Minister for Agriculture

Tara Moriarty said Dr Clift’s experience will be vital in building confdence among farmers and regional communities.

“There is important work ahead so our primary producers can operate knowing biosecurity is a top government priority,” she said. “I look forward to Dr Clift’s advice on delivering the most

efective approach to managing cattle tick in NSW.”

The Cattle Tick Program, which protects livestock along the Queensland border where the pest is established, currently receives more than $4 million annually.

Dr Clift’s review will involve:

l Consulting with beef industry stakeholders and north-east NSW communities

l Assessing the program’s current efectiveness

l Recommending improvements for stronger biosecurity outcomes

Dr Clift said she was honoured to take on the role.

“My career has been grounded in close collaboration with rural and regional communities, industry stakeholders, and government to build practical, trusted biosecurity systems,” she said. “I am a passionate advocate for communityinformed approaches and will continue the

important work of promoting transparency and public trust.”

Minister Moriarty thanked Dr Healy for her service as the inaugural Commissioner, acknowledging her role in strengthening governance and compliance in pest and weed management.

Dr Clift’s appointment marks a renewed focus on innovation, accountability, and partnership in safeguarding NSW’s agricultural sector against biosecurity threats.

High Commissioner of Samoa Meets with NFF Leaders.

Coraki Rural & Hardware Supplies

Heavy Vehicle Drivers Urged to Stay Vigilant Around Trains This Rail Safety Week

Ian Rogers

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is calling on heavy vehicle operators to make safety at level crossings a priority during Rail Safety Week (11–17 August), warning that most collisions involving heavy vehicles and trains happen in regional areas where infrastructure such as boom gates or overpasses may be absent.

This year’s campaign, led by the TrackSAFE Foundation, carries the theme Expect the Unexpected, highlighting the unpredictable nature of train movements.

NHVR Chief Operations

Ofcer Paul Salvati said it is critical for drivers to remember that train schedules can vary widely.

“Train frequencies vary and can occur at any time of day or night –always check for trains and follow the signs and signals,” Mr Salvati said.

“Most level crossing collisions involving heavy vehicles occur in regional areas, where there may not be any grade separation or boom gates, so please watch out for trains.”

Unsafe Behaviours Still Too Common

A Transport for NSW

survey revealed that almost half of heavy vehicle drivers (44%) admitted to engaging in unsafe practices around level crossings, including:

l Driving through a crossing when fatigued

l Attempting to cross with limited visibility

l Using non-approved routes that intersect with train lines

Mr Salvati said these behaviours increase the risk not only to drivers but also to train crews, passengers, and the broader community.

“Only drive over a level crossing once you have clear visibility and you’re certain there is enough time and space for your vehicle to safely reach the other side and clear the crossing,” he said.

Industry and Government Working Together

Collisions and near misses at level crossings

can have long-lasting efects, from fatalities and serious injuries to psychological trauma for all involved. The NHVR is working alongside the Ofce of the National Rail Safety Regulator (ONRSR) and the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) to deliver national safety improvements.

As a member of the National Level Crossing Safety Committee, the NHVR is helping to drive a coordinated, countrywide approach to reducing incidents. This includes:

l Increasing awareness campaigns targeting high-risk routes

l Sharing safety resources with transport operators

l Reviewing crossing designs and signage for greater visibility

A Reminder for All Road Users

While Rail Safety Week carries a special message for heavy

vehicle operators, the NHVR stressed that all road users share responsibility for level crossing safety. Even small errors in judgement can lead to devastating consequences.

Drivers are encouraged to:

l Plan journeys to avoid high-risk crossings where possible

l Reduce speed on approach to a crossing

l Always look both ways and listen for train horns

l Never attempt to beat a train

“We have more than a thousand biosecurity ofcers working at our borders and in mailrooms. They are some of the best trained ofcers in the world and use a variety of sophisticated methods to protect our country from biosecurity threats.”

For more information about this year’s campaign, visit the TrackSAFE Foundation website.

Million-Dollar Fine for Grape Export Fraud

Ian Rogers

\An Australian grape export company has been fned more than $1 million for deliberately trying to bypass biosecurity export controls when shipping table grapes to New Zealand.

The Grape House Pty Ltd pleaded guilty in Penrith District Court on 3 June to six counts of making false representations to dishonestly infuence a Commonwealth Ofcial. A further 23 related ofences were considered during sentencing on 8 August.

The court heard the company submitted false documentation in the 2017 and 2018 export seasons

to obtain phytosanitary certifcation and export permits. It falsely claimed grapes were sourced from a pest-free area, exempting them from mandatory cold treatment for fruit fy. In reality, the grapes were not from a pest-free zone and were shipped without the required treatment.

The $1,050,000 penalty

is one of the largest of its kind. Australia’s table grape exports were worth more than $248 million last fnancial year, according to ABARES.

Deputy Secretary of Biosecurity, Operations and Compliance Justine Saunders said the case was part of Operation Pimlico, conducted in cooperation with New

Zealand authorities.

“An outbreak of Queensland fruit fy in New Zealand would threaten its multi-billiondollar horticultural industry and damage Australia’s trade reputation,” she said.

Ms Saunders warned that breaches under the Export Control Act can lead to prison terms for individuals and substantial fnes, civil action, or deregistration for companies.

The prosecution was led by the Ofce of the Director of Public Prosecutions (Cth) following a referral from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.

NFF outlines six key areas to unlock productivity gains at ag roundtable

Ian Rogers

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) is proud to be representing Australian farmers in the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry’s “Unlocking Productivity in Australian Agriculture” roundtable in Brisbane today, ahead of the Treasurer’s Economic Reform Roundtable later this month.

This sector-specifc roundtable brings together around 50 representatives from across the agricultural supply chain to identify key opportunities for lifting productivity in the sector. The outcomes will directly inform the broader national productivity discussion at the Treasurer’s Economic Reform Roundtable from August 19–21.

NFF President David Jochinke said the roundtable was a vital opportunity to ensure agriculture was recognised as a key driver of Australia’s economic future.

“Farmers are ready to be part of the productivity solution. We welcome the Government’s focus on reform and are pleased to see a dedicated agricultural roundtable,”

Mr Jochinke said.

The NFF’s member driven advocacy has

outlined six key areas where targeted reform could unlock signifcant productivity gains:

l Taxation: Ensuring taxation arrangements support the growth and resilience of modern agricultural businesses, encourage productivity-enhancing investments by expanding - and making permanent - the Instant Asset Write-Of, and maintaining the taxation treatment of trusts and superannuation.

NFF Welcomes

Launch of National Food Security Strategy Process

Ian Rogers

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has welcomed the Federal Government’s release of its Feeding Australia: A National Food Security Strategy discussion paper, marking the start of a process to strengthen the nation’s food resilience.

NFF President David Jochinke said it was encouraging to see progress on one of the organisation’s key election priorities.

“It’s imperative we put the microscope over our entire supply chain system to identify vulnerabilities and fnd ways to safeguard our system,” Mr Jochinke said.

“The risks are real and rising—from global tensions and protectionist

agendas to climate change and workforce shortages, plus domestic pressure on land, water and infrastructure.”

While recognising the Government’s intention to take a broad view of food security, Mr Jochinke emphasised the need to keep critical drivers front and centre—particularly the stability of essential inputs, farm productivity and efcient supply chains.

He warned that Australia’s reliance on imported fuel, fertiliser and chemicals was one of the farm sector’s greatest vulnerabilities.

“If the tap is turned of, it will seriously cripple our ability to grow food and fbre,” he said.

The Government has outlined a timeline for the strategy, which

includes establishing a National Food Council and a public consultation phase.

Mr Jochinke said the stakes were high, with Australian agriculture aiming to reach a $100 billion industry value by 2030.

“We need secure supply chains and strategic investment to get there,” he said. “The NFF will carefully evaluate the discussion paper and provide detailed input to ensure this strategy addresses the real risks facing farmers and agriculture.”

The NFF has committed to working closely with government and industry stakeholders to ensure the fnal strategy delivers tangible protections for Australia’s food production future.

l Trade: Enhancing market access in Southeast Asia, pursuing FTAs with the Gulf Cooperation Council, EU and India, and tackling trade-inhibiting non-tarif barriers.

l Competition: Extending unfair trading protections to small businesses, implementing ACCC supermarket inquiry recommendations, and securing a long-overdue right to repair for agricultural machinery.

l Research & Development: Boosting public investment in high-return R&D, streamlining AgVet chemical regulation, and supporting innovation from lab to paddock.

l Infrastructure: Reinstating the Roads of Strategic Importance program, reforming the National Performance Based Standards scheme to improve approval processes, and upgrading critical rail freight corridors.

l Reduce red tape: Driving a national deregulation agenda through evidence-based review of the cumulative burden of federal, state and territory regulation, and simplifying industrial relations laws.

Mr Jochinke said these reforms were not just about boosting farm

productivity, they’re about strengthening the national economy.

“Agriculture contributes around $90 billion to the economy and supports 275,000 jobs. But it’s more than numbers - agriculture is the backbone of regional Australia and it’s the sector all Australians rely on every single day,” he said.

The NFF will also participate in the Treasurer’s Economic Reform Roundtable, where it will advocate for the sector in the session on international risks, opportunities and trade.

The NFF’s 2030 Roadmap sets an ambitious target to grow farmgate output to $100 billion by the end of the decade. Unlocking productivity is key to achieving that goal.

Climate, Water and Agricultural Conditions –Week Ending 13 August 2025

The latest ABARES climate, water and agricultural update reports mixed rainfall patterns across Australia, with production risks emerging in parts of southern New South Wales and continued dry conditions for some northern coastal and tablelands regions.

During the week to 13 August, low-pressure systems and cold fronts delivered rainfall to parts of eastern and south-western Australia. In cropping regions:

l Western Australia and Queensland recorded 5–50mm.

l Victoria received 5–15mm.

l Southern NSW remained largely dry, raising concerns about declining soil moisture and potential impacts on crop growth and yield.

l Mid North Coast, New England and Northern Rivers: Minimal rainfall, with conditions remaining generally dry. While established pastures are holding in some areas, limited follow-up rain could slow late-winter pasture

growth and reduce soil moisture reserves ahead of spring planting.

Outlook to 21 August 2025

Rainfall is expected to remain low across most eastern cropping areas:

l Western Australia: 10–25mm, likely to improve soil moisture reserves.

l Victoria & South Australia: 5–15mm.

l NSW & Queensland: Mostly dry, with southern NSW facing continued production risks.

l Mid North Coast, New England and Northern Rivers: Little to no rain forecast, maintaining pressure on pasture recovery and increasing the need for early spring rainfall to support summer forage crop establishment.

Seasonal Outlook (September–November 2025)

The Bureau of Meteorology forecasts above-median rainfall for much of central and eastern Australia, with western regions expected to see

average to below-average totals. If realised, this would:

l Support winter crop growth and development.

l Enable timely planting of dryland summer crops in eastern regions, including Northern NSW coastal and tablelands areas.

l Provide an opportunity for pasture regeneration in the Mid North Coast, New England, and Northern Rivers if early spring rain arrives.

Water Storage & Trading

l Murray–Darling Basin storage: Increased by 177GL to 14,647GL (66% capacity), but remains 20% lower than this time last year.

l Allocation prices: In the Victorian Murray below the Barmah Choke, prices rose from $269/ML to $287/ML between 7–14 August.

l Water trade:

l Goulburn to Murray –closed.

l Downstream through Barmah Choke – closed.

l Murrumbidgee to Murray – open.

Climate-Resilient Planting for the NSW Northern Rivers

Jef Gibbs

As weather patterns shift and summers become hotter, wetter, or more unpredictable, climate-resilient planting is fast becoming a priority for Northern Rivers gardeners. By choosing species and strategies that can adapt to changing conditions, you can protect your garden’s beauty and productivity while reducing maintenance and resource use.

Understanding the Local Climate Challenge

The NSW Northern Rivers is known for its lush, subtropical environment, but this diversity comes with seasonal extremes— intense summer heat, torrential rain, occasional dry spells, and the ever-present risk of storms or cyclones. Traditional planting approaches often fail under these conditions, particularly if they rely heavily on water-hungry ornamentals or plants unsuited to fuctuating weather.

Selecting Climate-Tough Species

l Lilly Pilly – A fast-growing, dense hedge that handles heavy rain. For edible gardens, look for heattolerant and quick-maturing crops such as sweet potatoes, capsicum, cherry tomatoes, and Asian greens. Heritage and locally saved seeds often perform better in variable climates.

or passionfruit—can reduce heat stress for more delicate crops. Planting windbreaks, such as native hedges, shields sensitive species from strong summer storms.

Soil Health as Insurance

Healthy soil acts as a bufer against climate extremes. Adding compost and organic matter improves both drainage and water retention, helping plants cope with wet and dry spells. Cover cropping during of-seasons protects soil from erosion and replenishes nutrients naturally.

Smart Water Management

Installing rainwater tanks and drip irrigation systems is an investment that pays of in resilience and reduced water bills. In wetter months, diverting excess runof away from sensitive beds prevents root rot. During dry spells, deep, infrequent watering encourages stronger root systems.

A Garden That Works With Nature

Resilient gardens begin with the right plants. Native species are a smart frst choice, as they’re naturally adapted to the region’s conditions. Consider:

l Lomandra longifolia – Hardy, lowwater grass that stabilises soil.

l Callistemon (Bottlebrush) – Tolerates both wet and dry spells while attracting pollinators.

l Kangaroo Paw – Adds vibrant colour and thrives in full sun.

Building Resilience Through Design

Design plays a crucial role in protecting plants from extremes. Raised garden beds improve drainage during heavy rain, while mulching reduces evaporation in dry periods. Grouping plants with similar water needs into zones makes irrigation more efcient.

Incorporating shade structures—like pergolas draped with climbing beans

Climate-resilient planting isn’t about resisting change—it’s about working with it. By blending local plant knowledge, sustainable design, and adaptive care, Northern Rivers gardens can remain productive and beautiful, even in an unpredictable climate. The reward is not just a thriving garden, but one that supports local biodiversity and makes the most of the unique conditions of this stunning region.

A GARDEN EXPERIENCE

Kangaroo Paw

Lilly Pilly

Lomandra longifolia

Callistemon (Bottlebrush)

01/12/1965 –

ALSTONVILLE QUOTA CLUB

A local women’s service club that meets on the 1st Tuesday of the month at the Plateau Sports Club. Quota is committed to supporting and improving the physical and mental wellbeing of the disadvantaged in our community through local projects.

EMBROIDERERS GROUP

Meetings are 9.30am-1.30pm, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays and 2nd Saturday of each month. Our venue is the Resource Centre at the rear of Crawford House Museum, Alstonville. We welcome embroiderers of all ability levels to meet, share and learn.

THE RETURNED AND SERVICES LEAGUE OF AUSTRALIA NSW Branch

ALSTONVILLE SUB-BRANCH

Alstonville RSL sub-Branch will now hold their monthly meetings on the second Wednesday of the month at 11am at the RSL Hall, 13 Bugden Ave (next door to the Alstonville Medical Centre). All ex-Service persons are welcome to attend, and we have a convivial morning tea on completion of the meeting. 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 monthly meetings, social outings, and special events – all centred around fun, fellowship, and friendship. At our September meeting, we will welcome Guest Speaker Phil Chapman to present an engaging talk on the history of Crowley Care, Ballina. Our September social event will be a relaxed lunch at the beautifully renovated Shaw’s Bay Hotel, right on the water at Shaw’s Bay in Ballina. Join us at 12:00 pm on Wednesday, 17th September for great food and wonderful company in a stunning setting. If you’d like to learn more about our club or upcoming events, please contact our President, Jeanette, on 0407 417 470.

socialisation. and to celebrate our creative achievements in the area of quilting and related stitchery. We encourage our members to seek and share knowledge of their skills.

New members would be most welcome. The cost is $5 per session Georgia 66876834

BALLINA EVENING VIEW CLUB

Meets on the second Wednesday of each month at the Ballina RSL Club at 6.30 for dinner at 7pm - Guests are always welcome. Our members support the education of disadvantaged children in Australia by fundraising activities and social events in our local community for The Smith Family - by sponsoring 5 Learning for Life students. Ph: Julie Stephan 0434988770.

BALLINA FREE COMMUNITY HOT BRUNCH

Ballina Free Community Hot Brunch, First Saturday of each month.

Everyone is invited to come and enjoy a hot brunch of sausages, rissoles bacon & eggs, cereal, tea and co ee. Or just come for a chat. Frozen take away meals available. Held at the Ballina Presbyterian Hall Corner of Cherry & Crane St Ballina 10AM TO 12PM Carol: 0438812235

BALLINA LIGHTHOUSE RSL DAY CLUB

A Day Club for elderly and isolated people in our community, held every Thursday at the Richmond Room Ballina. Enjoy morning tea and a mental stimulation exercise like Tai Chi, followed by lunch and afternoon musical entertainment. Every Thursday 10am to 2pm cost $10 Richmond Room, Regatta Avenue Ballina RSVP Lorraine Fox 66874350, 0439301249

BALLINA SENIOR CITIZENS BRIDGE CLUB

Social Bridge Play in Seniors Hall. Swift Street Ballina on Wednesday & Saturdays @ 12.05 pm Enquiries Phone: 0493425002 for details.

BALLINA TOY LIBRARY

Welcomes families from Ballina Shire. 9 Regatta Avenue, Ballina.

Open Tuesdays 1pm - 3pm, and Saturdays 10am - 1pm. Ph. 0411719074.

IN FOCUS TOASTMASTERS CLUB

How about trying something di erent? If you would like to improve your communication and leadership skills or simply make new friends and have fun, you are warmly invited to attend the In Focus Toastmasters Club. We meet the 3rd Wednesday evening of each month. You may attend either from the comfort of your own home via zoom or join us in person at the Cherry Street Sports Club, Ballina.

BRUNSWICK HEADS

BRUNSWICK VALLEY VIEW CLUB

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.

WOLLONGBAR PROBUS CLUB

Wollongbar Probus Club meets on the third Thursday of the month at the Alstonville Plateau Bowls and Sports Club, 10-14 Deegan Drive Alstonville, at 10am. Our next meeting is on Thursday 21st August and our Guest Speaker will be Gordon King telling the story of a little-known WW1 Hero. Visitors are welcome to attend. For information phone Keith on 66280393.

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.

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 BRANCH OF THE RED CROSS

The Alstonville Red Cross branch meets monthly in Alstonville. As meeting dates sometimes vary, please call Carol on 0424 742 774 for details of our next meeting.

ALSTONVILLE PROBUS CLUB

Alstonville Probus Club meets on the last Thursday of each month at Plateau Sports Club at 10.00 am. This commences with a cupper and chat, with the formal meeting commencing at 10.30 which includes an interesting guest speaker. All visitors are welcome.

Ballina Photography Club

meets on the first Thursday of the month at Northlakes Community Centre, 1 Mulloway Place, Ballina from 6pm to 9pm.We are currently looking for new members and visitors are always welcome. We are a group of enthusiastic photographers who live in and around Ballina. Members share a common interest in photography and have monthly outings to take photos and share images at meetings. Please contact our President Lyn on 0412 758 697

Ballina Meals on Wheels

Knitting and Crochet for Charity Group run by Ballina Meals on Wheels. Group held Monday mornings in Ballina and open to people who are 65years and older. $5 includes morning tea. Call Kristen on Ph: 0419 679719 for more information.

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A NEW HOBBY??? COME AND JOIN THE HEADLINERS CHORUS We are an all-female group of all ages who love to sing “Acappella” in 4-part Barbershop harmony. We are well known in the Northern Rivers community and would love you to join us. Come along to a rehearsal on Monday nights from 7pm and for more information see our website or enquire to Tracey Ezzy on 0438 446 809

BALLINA ARTS & CRAFTS CENTRE INC. (BACCI)

We are a diverse group of Artists and Crafters that participate in wonderful group exhibitions. Over 50 members are from all over the Northern Rivers. Meetings are usually on the 1st Tuesday of every month at the Cherry Street Sports Club. Social gathering at 5, for a 5.30 start. Ph: Rosie 0438401716

BALLINA BRIDGE CLUB

Social play every Monday 9am to 11:30am.”. Sessions for all levels of players on Mon, Wed, Sat from 1pm to about 5pm. Be seated at 12:45. Restricted session (under 300 Masterpoints) Thu 1pm – about 5pm. Friday mornings, Help with Play on Fri am times 9am - 11:30. Open to anyone who would like some help with their game from teachers on duty. 9am to about 11:15pm

Sessions are $5 for members and $7 for visitors at 13 North Ck Rd, Ballina Call Judy Forsyth: 0407664337.

Ballina Coastal Quilters

We meet at the North Lakes Community Hall in Whiting Way, Ballina on a Wednesday twice a month from 9 am to 2 pm. The group gives opportunities for friendship, support, and

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 / Mummulgum

Bingo at the Mummulgum Hall Sep 4th 10am Entry $20 includes morning tea, Bingo Lunch Everyone is welcome. Ra le, Lucky Door Prizes and a stall

Casino / Richmond Valley Blind Citizens Australia Branch Casino /Richmond Valley BCA Branch September meeting is in the Casino Baptist Church Hall on the corner of Canterbury and West Streets Casino on Monday 1st September at 10am. Come and enjoy a “Cuppa” before the meeting. This is the AGM meeting as well as general meeting, so all members are encouraged to attend. Outing for the month is to Evans Head RSL Club for morning medleys Monday 15th September. New members are very welcome. Free transport is available. Phone Denise on 0448 014 682

CWA Casino Day

Our next meeting is at the Casino Community Centre 9.00am this 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 see what we are doing in our community. September 4th we are hosting a Small Steps 4 Hannah talk to create more awareness and empower members of people about the early warning signs of coercive control and the tragic but inspiration story of Hannah and her children. Enquires Margaret Good 66621746, Jane Flick 0427 707 669.

CASINO SENIOR CITIZENS

URGENT - An invitation is extended to Community Members who would like to join us on a bus trip to an Alpaca Farm at Southgate (near Grafton) and then on to the Lawrence Hotel for lunch. Cost is $10 on bus.Morning tea at the Alpaca Farm is $5.00, includes delicious home cooking; then see alpacas then actually feed them.

Fairy Hill Fairy Hill Craft Group is on Thurs., 4th

Day. Please bring priced items to sell. For example: baking, jams, pickles, produce, plants, bric-a-brac. This would be a great day to join our friendly group or a good time to re-join if you’ve been to the group in the past. Proceeds from the stall supports Hall maintenance. Usual crafts and cuppas are held as well. Ph: Sue on 66633233 for further information

CASINO CHARITY CASH BINGO if you would like to come along and join us each at Casino RSM Club each Thursday mornings 10.00an or Thursday evenings 7.00pm, you are most welcome! Great cash prizes! For any enquiries please don’t hesitate to contact Jan Danaher on 0414625680.

CWA CASINO EVENING BRANCH

We meet on the first Thursday of the month at 6pm at the Uniting Church Hall, Canterbury Street, Casino. Our aim is to improve the lives of women and families, especially in rural areas, while having fun in the process. We are also involved in local and regional social issues, policy, and decision-making. We also do handicrafts, cooking and social outings. Join us for a cup of tea and discover the work we do and the fun we have. Contact Carolyn 0403699055 or Jane 0419172019 for further information.

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 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, 8am1.30pm. 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

The Village Players Theatre Group Evans Head AGM is on the 2nd of September 6pm at the Bowling Club, we are struggling to stay afloat & need new blood & new ideas.

Evans Head Parkinson’s Support Group will next meet at Evans Head Thyme Lifestyle Village Great room in the Community Hall, 74 Currajong St, Evans Head at 10 am to 12 noon on the 28th of August. We are excited to announce that our two guests’ speakers will be local radio personality, Nora Vidler, who will entertain us with some memories of her life and Parkinson’s Specialist Nurse, Rebecca Manners. Rebecca will discuss the advanced therapy of Deep Brain Stimulation. All members of the Parkinson’s community, family and friends are most welcome to attend. If time permits, the Caregiver’s group, led by Ivonne Mace will also meet in an adjoining room. Tea and co ee and a small snack are available for a gold coin donation. For further information, contact Di on 0423941119

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, or-

ganization, 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

CWA Awareness Week is from 7-13th September and Grafton CWA will be having a display in Grafton Eyecare, Prince St, for 2 weeks, from 5th -19th September. The display will reflect the statewide focus on seasonal eating, and the need to change how we think about, purchase and consume foods and reduce waste. There will also be information about CWA and what the organisation does. Grafton Branch CWA meetings are held on the 2nd Friday of each month, at Grafton District Services Clubmorning tea at 9.30am, followed by the meeting at 10am. New members are always welcome. Handicraft mornings are held on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month at the Salvation Army Hall, Oliver St, starting at 9.30am.

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

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 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

Community Kids group

Join our Community Kids group 5-12yrs

To Learn about community values though art and craft projects, stories, and Baha’i inspired poems promoting harmony, unity and kindness CWA hall behind Lennox Head Cultural Centre 4.30-5.30 Friday 22 August onwards Fee/booking $5 please text Parvin 0481 390 767 Kid/s names Parent participation recommended

LENNOX HEAD EVENING VIEW CLUB

Meets on the second Tuesday of each month upstairs at the Lennox Hotel at 6.30pm for dinner at 7pm. Guests are welcome. “VIEW members support the education of disadvantaged Australian children by raising much needed funds for The Smith Family. Through fundraising activities and social events in local communities, members raise money that goes directly to The Smith Family’s learning and mentoring programs for disadvantaged. Students.” Lennox Head Evening VIEW Club currently sponsors two Learning for Life students’: Sue Brennan 0409728814.

LENNOX HEAD LIONS CLUB

New members welcome to join our close-knit club where the emphasis is on community service in a fun environment. Meetings are on the first and Third Wednesday of each month at Club Lennox starting at 6.30pm. Members do what they can, when they can to facilitate the needs of our club.

PROBUS CLUB OF LENNOX HEAD

Meets 9.30 for 10 at Club Lennox, 10 Stewart Street, on the first Thursday of each month. Visitors are welcome, also retired, or semi-retired people wishing to join our non-service club to hear interesting guest speakers and to join in trips and outings are invited along. Ph: June Zentveld on 66871004

LISMORE

Lismore Parkinsonism Support Group for all Parkinson related disorders. We meet every third Friday of the month. Next group Meeting is 19th of September Commences at 10am to 12pm at the South Lismore Bowls Club, 25 Wilson Street South Lismore. New members always welcomed. Any inquiries contact Marie 0448871290

LISMORE CWA

We hope you are all coping with the rather uncertain weather of late.It makes it di icult for event planning at times. However, we have some exciting news: We are having a GARAGE SALE at the CWA Rooms in Spinks Park on Sat. September 6th, As well as Craft &homemade treats, we will have an array of goods for sale & hope you can pop in: We always look forward to welcoming new Members, even if it is only for a ‘curiosity’ attendance at our weekly Craft or our Monthly Meetings. Craft meeting enquiries. Call Vicki Boyle on 0437 465 462: For CWA Membership, call Helen Dargin on 0438 828 619.

Lismore Garden Club

meets on the 2nd Thursday of each month at the East Lismore Bowling Club, commencing at 1pm. The Club has guest speak-

ers, visits to members’ gardens and enjoy a morning tea and friendship whilst taking in the beautiful gardens. Day trips away are also on the agenda from time to time. There is the opportunity to display something special such as a particular flower or produce each month. New members are most welcome. For further information, contact the Secretary, phone 0416 281 365.

AA MEETINGS

Lismore RED DOVE AA Meetings, Every Monday, Wednesday & Friday 12 Noon and Sundays 10.30am. Upstairs in The Uniting Church, cnr of Keen St & Woodlark St Lismore. Disability lifts available. Newcomers welcome.

LISMORE LIBRARY

Library Afterschool

Lismore Children’s Library is launching a new program of after-school activities called Library Afterschool. This term, we invite local children to get involved in PAPERCRAFT and LEGO activities. All sessions will be fun, free, low-key and inclusive, facilitated by your friendly Lismore Children’s Library sta PAPERCRAFT 3.30pm-5pm at Lismore Children’s Library, first and third Tuesday of the month. Papercraft will include learning to draw, making origami and scissor-and-glue crafts. LEGO 3.30pm-5pm at Lismore Children’s Library, second and fourth Friday of the month Explore our excellent LEGO collection. Alternating themed and free-play sessions. The Northern Rivers Lodge No. 77 meets on the 2nd Wednesday of each month (except in January) at the Lismore Masonic Centre, 111 Magellan Street Lismore. We welcome all Masons to an enjoyable and entertaining evening. Inquiries 0412665674

LISMORE CRAFTS & QUILTERS

You are invited to join, LISMORE CRAFTS & QUILTERS. We meet on Mondays at the Lismore Uniting Church, Red Dove, Hall 9.30am - 12.30pm. We do Patchwork, Quilting & all Crafts. We also have night group, who meet at McLean Ridges Hall, Monday evenings, 5.30pm - 9pm. Cost is $30 for the year & $5 each Monday. Looking forward to seeing you. Enquiries to Margaret Boxsell 0427141425

LISMORE LIONS CLUB

Please save your used stamps to raise funds for The Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation. Stamps are collected & forwarded on to be sorted & sold at Auction, to raise money for Children’s Mobility contact Margaret Boxsell on 0427141425

Lismore City Bowling

Lismore City Bowling and Recreation Club Community BINGO every Monday morning 10 am to 12 noon. Morning tea and Progressive Jackpot. All welcome. Phone 66 21 5991.

LISMORE CITY CONCERT BAND

Rehearsals are held during school terms on Mondays, 6.15-7.45pm at Southern Cross University. If you can play a concert band instrument: brass, woodwind, or percussion, please come and join us! All ages welcome. We have some instruments available for loan. Ph: 0432575911

LISMORE MEN & COMMUNITY SHED

President: Mr Bob Greig 0404860504 publicity o icer Don Abrahams 0437576837

Opening Hours: Tuesday & Thursday 9.00am – 3.00pm We are a community based non-profit organisation. Everybody is welcome: men, women & people with a disability of all ages. We encourage social inclusion. Our aim is to promote the mental, physical & emotional well-being of people in our community. Shed Activities Members work on their own projects, Mentoring is available, General woodworking, Welding & light engineering, Repair & restoration of items for the public Constructing projects, of items for the public Constructing projects for preschools, hospitals & other organisations Assembling flatpack, Minor maintenance work for the elderly & disabled, working with the disabled, talking with other members or simply having company. Memberships: $40-year Attendance Fee: $3 tea/co ee 15 Industry Drive East Lismore

LISMORE ORCHID SOCIETY INC.

City of Lismore Orchid Society Inc. Meetings are now at the Lismore Show Ground, In Norms Kitchen under the Members Grandstand. Alexandra Parade, North Lismore. NSW 2480 Meeting Date; the first Saturday of the month Meeting Time: 9:30am display plants set up, 10:00am meeting starts with a cuppa after. Contact President Mr. Steven Muldoon 0427789773

Orchid meeting involves the sharing of information, knowledge and friendship. All welcome. Lismore City Bowling and Recreation Club Community BINGO every Monday Morning 10am to 12 noon. Morning tea and Progressive Jackpot. All welcome. Ph 6621 5991

LISMORE SENIOR CITIZENS

Meet at the Goonellabah Community Centre every second Thursday starting at 9am where we have morning tea followed by games bingo how etc we play cards Monday and Friday and play bowls Tuesdays and craft every second Tuesday afternoons come and join our friendly group you will be very welcome.

LISMORE SPINNERS & WEAVERS

Please join us…... Weaving, Spinning, Felting, Dyeing, Knitting, Crochet, Workshops, Chat…. Sharing Craft & Ideas.From 10am, on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Fridays of each month. (Formal business meeting is 10.30-11.30 every 1st Friday) McLeans Ridges Hall Cnr Cowlong and McLeans Ridges Rds. (o Bruxner Hwy) Morning Tea provided. Bring your lunch (and a mug) Contac: Kim: 0423935060, Linda: 0419489987

LISMORE TARGET RIFLE CLUB for .22 calibre rifles, meets Wed nights from 6.00pm (setup time) & the 1st & 3rd Sat of each month from 12.30pm (setup time). Air rifle shooting for .22 & 177 air rifles will also be available at the Saturday shoots. For more information, please phone Derek on 66282082 (ah).

CO-DEPENDANTS ANONYMOUS (CoDA)

Co-Dependants Anonymous is a Twelve Step Fellowship of people whose common purpose is to develop healthy relationships. The only requirement for membership is a desire for healthy relationships.The CoDA meeting in the Lismore area meets on Mondays from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Riverland’s Drug and Alcohol Centre. 75 Hunter Street, Lismore. For further information call 0456178826 or 0408336143

EAST LISMORE BOWLING CLUB

Community Bingo Tuesday night 7.30pm start. 20 games of bingo + progressive jackpot Neilson Street East Lismore. Everyone Welcome

EAST LISMORE SOCIAL TENNIS

Social Tennis is played at East Lismore Tennis Club, Cnr Neilson St & Oakley Avenue every Tuesday from 8am. We invite social players of all abilities to join us, we are a mixed group who enjoy a morning’s tennis without the commitment of competition. Ph: Fay Ross 0412910487. Everyone welcome.

MAINLY MUSIC

Fun, interactive, music sessions for young children [birth to school age] and their parents/caregivers in a relaxed setting on Tuesdays starting at 9:30am during School Terms. Children will be introduced to music, creativity and more. They will develop gross motor skills, as well as socialise with others in a loving, shared family environment. Morning tea with snacks included. Mainly Music at Lismore Anglican Parish Centre, 10 Zadoc Street, LISMORE. T: 0266213200

PROBUS CLUB OF LISMORE HEIGHTS

Our mixed group meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month at the Lismore Heights Bowling Club in High St. Our brief meeting is followed by morning tea and a guest speaker. Senior’s lunch for $15 at noon is optional. Guests and visitors are welcome. Ring/text Roslyn on 0437606674 for details of our other monthly social gatherings and outings.

ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE NETWORKING

Want to be part of an innovative, interesting, and inclusive networking group who meet fortnightly to share ideas, meet other professionals and work together to make a di erence in your community? Then Rotary Club of Lismore Networking could be the answer for you! Meets on the 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month at 5.30pm at The Civic Hotel (210 Molesworth Street Lismore). Ph: Rita on 0413300578 or Gae 0412742095.

ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE WEST INC

East Lismore Bowling Club each Thursday at 6pm. New members would be made most welcome. Further information available on 0428151934.

ROTARY CLUB OF SUMMERLAND SUNRISE

Interested in contributing to community? Local and international?

The Rotary Club of Summerland Sunrise meets every Friday at 7.05am for Breakfast at Red Dove Café 80 Keen st Lismore. Join us please. Ph: 0435990919

SUMMERLAND AMATEUR RADIO CLUB

Meetings of the club are normally held on the second Sunday of each month at the clubrooms: 412 Richmond Hill Road, Richmond Hill at 1pm. Visitors are welcome. The clubrooms are usually open on Sunday afternoons from about 1pm onwards. We are primarily amateur radio enthusiasts and welcome persons interested in radio, electronics, astronomy, and similar subjects.

SUMMERLAND BONSAI SOCIETY INC.

Come and learn an addictive hobby with us. We provide personal support from experienced teachers as well as demonstrations and Bonsai information. Club days are held on the second Saturday of every month at 1pm in the Red Dove at Lismore Be inspired about the art of creating little trees. Ph: 0438103601

ZEN and INSIGHT MEDITATION - Lismore Heights

INSIGHT (VIPASSANA) MEDITATION and practice: This mindfulness-based meditation group sits on Wednesdays from 7:00-8:30pm. The evening includes meditation instructions, sitting and walking meditation, Dharma talks and discussion. For further details, please contact Rosie0402 682 925. Beginners and experienced meditations are warmly welcomed.

ZEN MEDITATION and practice The Zen meditation group sits on Mondays from 6:30pm-8:15pm. If you wish to attend

MACLEAN

MACLEAN VIEW CLUB

Monthly meetings the 3rd Thursdays of each month at 11am. Contact Ruth Toyer on 0409844212 by Mondays, no later than 7pm. Numbers are required for catering purposes.

MCLEANS RIDGES

MCLEANS RIDGES CRAFT GROUP meet at the McLeans Ridges Hall, Cowlong Road, McLeans Ridges on the 2nd Saturday of each month from 9.30am to 3.30pm. Scrapbooking, card making, paper craft, knitting whatever takes your fancy. Come along for an enjoyable day. Bring your own morning tea and lunch. Co ee, tea, milk provided. A small fee to cover hall hire. Ph 0401 047 513.

MURWILLUMBAH

COMMUNITY PRINTMAKERS MURWILLUMBAH

Fine art printmakers. Meet at studio space 224 Stokers Rd, Stokers Siding. Prints, gallery, workshops and more! Ph: Peter 0498399640 or Sue 0408493253.

MURWILLUMBAH COMMUNITY GARDEN

Members and visitors are invited to join the group for activities and gardening tips most Sundays. Time 3-5pm, street parking, BYO, covered footwear, comfy clothing, hat, and water. Children ok with strict supervision. Covid plan operating. Ph: Bob Johnson (02)66225792.

POTTSVILLE

Alcoholics Anonymous: Is drinking costing you more than money? AA works and is very active in Pottsville. We meet every Thursday 7pm at St Marks 15A Coronation Ave Pottsville and local contact 1800 423 431 or 04019 45671

POTTSVILLE FUN CROQUET CLUB

Meets at Black Rocks Sports Fields on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8.30am. New members are welcome to come and join us for a hit and a bit of fun. For any further enquires please call Jean on 0431606375.

TWEED HEADS

Poets and writers on the Tweed meet every Tuesday at the South Tweed Sports Club 1.30-3.30pm. Beginners welcome. Phone 0755248035.

TWEED HEADS PROBUS CLUB

Probus Club, Coolangatta/Tweed Heads. Be at Club Tweed at 10-00am on the first Wednesday of the Month. Visitors and new members are very welcome.

TWEED PATCHWORK GROUP

Meet the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month at South Tweed Community Centre from 9-1pm at 18 He ron Street Tweed Heads south all beginners welcome phone Moira on 0418686643. A friendly group of people with common interest in seeing, quilting and related craft.

TWIN TOWNS DAY VIEW CLUB VIEW as in Voice, Interests, Education of Women (Not many people are aware of what ‘VIEW’ club stands for!) AND NOT ONLY IN NAME: We are a group of ladies who care what will become of our youth! Our heritage – Their heritage – It is sad but true that many of our young people have no direction in their lives. Every morning, we wake to the news that violence has occurred overnight in what was once considered a safe neighbourhood. How do these o ending children/ youth feel the next morning knowing they have caused so much heartache - is this why we also hear of youth harming themselves so they can spread the pain? So, this is where VIEW Clubs and other similar clubs are starting from the bottom of the ladder by providing much needed funds to educate our youngsters so they will WANT to become the very best person they can not only in education but in their community and being proud of themselves and giving their parents hope for their child’s future. We at TWIN TOWNS DAY VIEW CLUB PROVIDE THE NECESSARY FUNDS to educate just 7 of these children. We know not where they come from, but someone in their community has contacted THE SMITH FAMILY and they in turn contact VIEW CLUBS OF AUSTRALIA who anonymously contact a VIEW Club who in turn take over the responsibility for these worthy children’s fees and so year after year their tertiary fees are paid. These fees are raised by VIEW Club members who attend meetings, listen to interesting guest speakers, and regularly have days out at each other’s homes – so FUN and a tremendous satisfaction of knowing we are helping our future generation. More information can be gleaned by contacting our President Kathie on 0407709629.

WOLLONGBAR

WOLLONGBAR PROBUS CLUB

Wollongbar Probus Club meets on the third Thursday of the month at the Alstonville Plateau Bowls and Sports Club, 10-14 Deegan Drive Alstonville, at 10am. Our next meeting is on Thursday 21st August and our Guest Speaker will be Gordon King telling the story of a little-known WW1 Hero. Visitors are welcome to attend. For information phone Keith on 66280393.

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

Spend the morning at the market browsing and enjoy the friendly atmosphere with some yummy food. Car booters and other stall holders welcome. Outside stalls $5.00 and no need to book; or contact Lois 0427 492 060 ($5 per table undercover outside); or Liz 0407 761 515 for a $5 per table inside. Set-up time starts at 7am.

After the market has finished, the 2025 Annual General Meeting will be held followed by a General Meeting

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 u Family Groups meet regularly across Australia and online, see Website: MONDAY11:00am - 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 6.30 - 8:00 pm BALLINA – Anglican Church, 24 Burnet St & ZOOM ID 252 666 0000 (no password)THURSDAY 5:00 - 6:00 pm (with Alateen) TWEED HEADS Anglican Church, 13 Powell St or by phone: 4022 9113, code 5771881# FRIDAY The Bangalow meeting meets in person on the FIRST and THIRD FRIDAY of the month at 1.00 - 2.30 pm at 17 Station St, Bangalow, (Bangalow Uniting Church, parking next to the Church. SUNDAY 4:00 pm CHINDERAH Seventh Day Adventist Church, 83 Phillip St.

NORTHERN RIVES MUSTANGS

If you own a Ford Mustang and would like to do monthly drives with other members for more information, contact John 0404 884 192

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.

BIG RED FIRE TRUCK at the next Halfway Creek Community Market on Sunday 7th September.

As part of the annual RFS Get Ready Weekend campaign, the local RFS brigade will have a display and will be there to assist with your fire permits, any property preparation or bush fire related queries. Checkout the RFS truck and its equipment as well as a fun water activity for the young and not so young. The market runs from 8.30 am-12.00 pm, corner of Pacific Hwy and Kungala Road. There will be lots of stalls selling all manner of things. Food is available, including our famous roast beef rolls, tea, co ee and cakes, all at very reasonable prices. So please put it on your calendar to visit, bring Dad along and have the morning at the market browsing and enjoy the friendly atmosphere with some yummy food.Car booters and other stall holders welcome. Outside stalls $5.00 and no need to book; or contact Lois 0427 492 060 ($5 per table undercov-er outside); or Liz 0407 761 515 for a $5 per table inside.

Set-up time starts at 7am. After the market has finished, the 2025 Annual General Meeting will be held followed by a General Meetina.

WEATHER

Northern Rivers District:

Cloudy. Very high chance of rain. The chance of a storm along the coastal fringe. Light winds becoming southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h during the afternoon then becoming light during the evening.

Thursday. Cloudy. Very high chance of rain. The chance of a storm. Light winds becoming south to southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h during the morning then becoming light during the evening.

Northern Tablelands District: Cloudy. Very high chance of showers. Winds east to southeasterly 15 to 25 km/h.

Thursday. Cloudy. High chance of rain. Winds east to southeasterly 20 to 30 km/h.

New South Wales:

Showers along the coast and adjacent ranges, more frequent and

tending to rain with the chance of storms along the central and northern parts of the coast. Scattered showers across the central and northern ranges, slopes and plains. Moderate to locally heavy falls possible in the north. Dry and mostly sunny in the far west. Snow possible on the northern ranges above 1400 metres and above 1300 metres on the southern ranges. Morning frost possible across the southern inland and slopes. Daytime temperatures well below average along the northern half of the coast and ranges, grading to near or slightly above average on the southern slopes and plains. East to southeasterly winds, fresh at times near the coast. Thursday. Showers or rain along the northern half of the coast and ranges with moderate to locally heavy falls possible. The chance of storms along the northern coastal fringe. Scattered showers elsewhere in the east and along the central and northern slopes and plains. Snow possible on the alpine peaks above 1700 metres. Dry and partly cloudy elsewhere in the west. Morning frost possible

in the south. Morning fog possible across the northern inland. Daytime temperatures well below average along the north coast, grading to near or above average across the southern inland. Southeast to northeasterly winds, fresh near the coast and on the ranges or western slopes.

Byron Coast:

Winds: Easterly 15 to 20 knots. Seas: Around 1 metre. 1st Swell: Southeasterly 1 to 1.5 metres, tending easterly 1.5 to 2 metres during the afternoon. 2nd Swell: Southerly around 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore south of Coffs Harbour. Weather: Cloudy. 95% chance of rain. The chance of a storm. Coffs Coast: Winds: Easterly 15 to 20 knots. Seas: Around 1 metre. 1st Swell: Southeasterly 1 to 1.5 metres, tending easterly 1.5 to 2 metres during the afternoon. 2nd Swell: Southerly around 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore south of Coffs Harbour. Weather: Cloudy. 95% chance of rain. The chance of a storm.

Comets hold on in fnals thriller

By Tim Howard

The late-season momentum of the Cofs Harbour Comets carried them to a 26-20 Group 2 Rugby League competition elimination fnal win over Macksville at Allan Gillett Field on Saturday.

Both sides scored four tries, but the boot of Cofs halfback Jett McCarthy proved the diference. He slotted four conversions and a penalty, while Macksville’s normally reliable kicker Romain Pallares struggled, forcing Rielly Laverty to step in late.

Macksville tried a tactical shake-up, shifting Pallares to fullback and giving Laverty the No.7 jersey.

But Cofs executed a disciplined kick chase that blunted Pallares’ dangerous kick returns.

The Sea Eagles struck frst after fve minutes when Laverty sliced through and sent Wyatt Rouse charging over in the corner.

Pallares missed the conversion, but the home side led 4-0.

Cofs hit back soon after.

A Macksville infringement gave them

feld position and skipper McAuley Dawson combined neatly with centre Lewis Hall for their frst try.

McCarthy’s sideline conversion put the Comets ahead 6-4.

The lead changed hands again when Macksville hooker Zane Doolan chipped into the corner, forcing an error from Dawson and allowing Sam Shields to pounce.

Another missed conversion left the Sea Eagles ahead 8-6. Cofs regained the advantage minutes later with a clever last-tackle play.

Instead of kicking, McCarthy hit secondrower Waka Petera on a well-timed run.

He powered over near the posts and McCarthy’s conversion made it 12-8. Both sides showed signs

of fatigue late in the half, spilling possession in good positions.

But the turning point came just before the break when Macksville failed to fnd touch from a penalty.

The Comets swept downfeld and McCarthy’s kick ricocheted into Petera’s hands for his second try.

The conversion stretched the lead to 18-8 at half time.

Needing a fast start to the second half, Macksville poured on defensive pressure, but it was Cofs who struck next.

Ronan Singleton broke from inside his own half, linked with McCarthy, and sent Petera in for his third try.

McCarthy’s conversion pushed the margin to 24-8 with 35 minutes remaining.

Macksville responded with urgency.

Pallares sparked a sweeping movement that ended with Rouse grabbing his second try.

Tempers fared in the aftermath, with Dawson and Macksville fveeighth Jay Hartley both sin-binned after an altercation.

Laverty landed the conversion and the Sea Eagles trailed 24-14.

Cofs stretched their lead to 26-14 with a McCarthy penalty goal as Macksville’s discipline faltered.

The Sea Eagles kept coming, but their attack faltered at crucial moments.

Shields fred a forward pass with the line open, and Dawson defused a dangerous bomb after

WEEKLY SPORTS RESULTS

was a week of tight contests, clever tactics and

Ballina, bowls rolled true

Ballina Mahjong –Friday Showdown

The mahjong tables at Ballina Bridge Club were buzzing on Friday 15 August, as more than two dozen players went head-to-head in an afternoon of sharp strategy. Shirley Atkinson proved unstoppable, claiming top spot with precision and fair. Linda Lloyd kept the pressure on to fnish runner-up, while Joy Lowien’s calm focus secured third. Rounding out the top fve were Jan Small and Janena Bird, both battling through tough rounds.

The full leaderboard stretched deep, with Ramsay Roper, Barbara Ellan and Sally Lowry among those pushing hard, while the ever-consistent Rosemary Russell and Kim Higgins rounded out

the mid-feld. Mahjong returns each Friday at 12:15 for a 12:30pm start — and with Shirley on form, challengers will be eager to test their skills next week.

Casino Bowls – Askew, Chandler & Watson Take the Day

On the greens at Casino, it was Graeme Askew, Maryanne Chandler and Ivy Watson who stole the show. Their rink charged to victory over Janine Robards, Jan Dwyer and Mary Mead, winning by the highest margin of the day and taking the title honours.

Other rink winners included Julie Creighton and Annette James, who edged out Raelene Skirrey and Helen Lavelle, while V. Jennings and Denise Skinner proved too strong for Carmel Doyle and

Maria Hellyar. A day of competitive spirit — and plenty of friendly banter.

Casino Social Golf –Piccoli Edges Hampson

Sunday 17 August saw the Casino social golfers return to the course with a feld full of contenders.

Phillip Piccoli held his nerve to post 25 stableford points, snatching victory on countback from Donald Hampson, who also fnished on 25. D. Roberts took home the putting trophy with just 16 putts, while T. Jenkins celebrated after winning the players draw. Nearest-to-pin prizes were spread around, though Hampson and Jenkins proved particularly sharp, sharing seven holes between them.

G. Randall, J. Rankin and B. Yates also claimed pins with precision shots. Next

Sunday’s event, sponsored by Richmond Valley Meats, promises another early-morning contest with tee-of from 6:30am.

Cherry Street Croquet – Scott Secures the Crown

At Cherry Street Croquet Club, the battle for supremacy was ferce.

In Association Croquet, Gloria Drew and Bill Hardy scraped past Bev Bill and Peter Hume in a nail-biting 14–13 fnish, while Mike Gidding was in commanding form, dispatching Lance Turner 25–11.

In the Club

Championship Handicap Singles, Penny Scott proved unbeatable. She overcame J. Doust in the semi before toppling Debbie Jones 7–4 in the fnal. Jones herself had earlier beaten Robyn

despite letting it bounce near the posts.

The home side’s persistence paid of when reserve Robbie Smith produced a brilliant kickand-chase try midway through the half.

Laverty’s conversion cut the gap to 26-20 with more than 15 minutes still to play.

Macksville threw everything into attack as the crowd urged them on.

Another high kick from Smith caused chaos, but Dawson recovered at the last moment.

Laverty forced repeat sets with probing kicks, and in the dying minutes Pallares sent Shields into space.

But Shields failed to link with his unmarked winger, and Rouse’s knock-on ended the Sea Eagles’ last chance.

It summed up a frustrating day for Macksville, who had enough possession to win but couldn’t convert their opportunities.

The Comets, by contrast, made the most of theirs and showed the composure that has carried them into the fnals.

As the siren sounded, Cofs ran the ball d

Poynting to reach the decider.

Meanwhile, members ventured to Sawtell for a golf croquet singles tournament, bringing home a string of solid results. Stuart Elliott shone brightest, taking frst in C Division. The club now looks ahead to Friendship Day on Sunday 24 August, with a playful purple theme for all who attend.

Coraki Veterans Golf – Sauer Handles the Heavy Ground

At Coraki, 37 hardy veterans braved a soggy course after a week of heavy rain to contest the single stableford on Thursday 14 August. J. Sauer mastered the conditions to claim victory, with S. McDonald and M. Staford rounding out the podium.

prizes were snapped up by J. Braby, I. Welch, R. Bolger and G. Harding. Nearest-to-pin bragging rights went to Harding on the 3rd/12th and Braby on the 6th/15th. With more rain on the horizon, golfers will be hoping the course can dry before their next 8:30am tee-of. From mahjong masters to croquet champions, and from rain-soaked fairways to the greens of Casino, it was another week of ferce but friendly competition across the Northern Rivers.

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

Local Sport Roundup: Mahjong, Bowls, Golf and Croquet Bring Out the Best

It

plenty of laughs across the Northern Rivers, as Mahjong tiles clicked in

in Casino, golf swings tested patience in the rain, and croquet mallets clashed at Cherry Street.

The free game went to P. Brophy, while chicken/ ball

Cofs Comets second rower Waka Petera brushes aside the Macksville defence as he heads for the line to score the frst of three tries for his team at Macksville on Saturday.

As clear as mud Rugby decision leaves players and supporters

By Gary Nichols

SO, you wake up Saturday morning, have breakfast, read the paper, undertake a few household chores and look forward to an afternoon of local rugby.

For some, it’s a weekly ritual, a highlight of the weekend.

Parents, rugby purists, volunteers, sponsors and past players head out to their local rugby ground where a strong community spirit unites the crowd. Well, two weeks ago in the Mid North Coast Rugby Zone, according to fans at the local rugby game between Grafton and Kempsey, bush rugby plummeted to its lowest depths.

The Zone in their wisdom, left players and supporters angry and bewildered by recent changes to the by-laws, two-weeks out from the fnal series.

Community sport is the lifeblood of regional towns. It’s about participation.

Well, two Saturdays ago they were robbed.

The Grafton Redmen under-14s and 16s played, unaware of what was about to unfold.

The games were meaningless. Why?

Because the zone decided to move the goal posts.

“If one match of the round is abandoned due to feld unavailability, then all matches in the round will be abandoned including women’s and juniors,” was the message form Mid North Coast zone manager Shane Joyce.

The roll-on-efect has impacted several sides vying for positions in the top four.

A spokesman for the Grafton Redmen Club was fabbergasted with the decision, which was

allegedly made without consultation with the Clubs and the Mid North Coast Rugby Board.

“The sun was shining, and our ground was in great condition,” he said.

“Are we here to promote rugby or alienate players, supporters and sponsors by cancelling games,”

“The round was cancelled because of one ground which was deemed unsafe. The frst-grade game involved two teams, fourth against ffth, which was a dead rubber.

“Surely the other two games, which would efectively decide the top two positions should have went ahead.

“Grafton had a chance to grab second spot and the game between Cofs Snappers and Port Pirates was for the minor premiership and a home major semi-fnal.

“Our women’s team put

in a huge efort all week for the club to celebrate Cultural Day. One of the Grafton frst grade players was celebrating his 250game milestone.

“Also, Kempsey hired a bus and turned up while one referee drove from Yamba only to be told at the ground the game was abandoned.

“Most importantly supporters and sponsors left the ground disappointed and confused as to what had unfolded.”

During the week Grafton local radio station Loving Life FM contacted the Mid North Coast president Steve Rees for his comments on the Zone’s decision to change the bylaws late in the season.

“It was a decision that had to be made. There was an edict put out last week that if a game was called of then all games in the round would be called of,” Rees’ said.

“It’s not a good situation for anyone and it probably efected the Grafton club more than anyone because of the day they had planned.

“We feel terrible, and it hurts us, Grafton are a great club and have been doing amazing things this year.

“But at the end of the day we feel we made the right decision.

NSW Rugby has been criticised in the past for its neglect of grassroots and community rugby in favour of top-fight football.

Recently NSW Rugby announced a new partnership with Helping Hand Group dedicated to support local communities and a commitment to grow and develop at the grassroots level.

Numerous eforts were made to contact NSW Rugby with no success.

Newly appointed NSW

Country Rugby CEO Carl Jones was contacted during the week regarding the abandonment of games.

“I don’t see what the problem is, the referees made a decision the ground was unsafe, so they called the game of,” Jones said.

When asked about the impact it had on the Grafton Club both fnancially and from a fan’s perspective Jones reiterated his previous comments.

“Again, I don’t see a story in this. The ground was unsafe, so the referees called the game of.... I’m happy to reply to an email,” he said.

In a recent development the zone has made another backfip with all junior games which were completed before the abandonment of senior matches to receive points. Well, at least some commonsense has prevailed.

Panthers Hold Firm in Thriller as Roosters Fall Short at the Death

By Tim Howard

Desperate defence earned the Sawtell Panthers a gripping 32-30 qualifying semi-fnal win over premiers Nambucca at Coronation Park on Sunday.

Nothing summed up Sawtell’s efort better than the last play of the game, when a swarm of defenders forced Roosters replacement centre Robbie Inglis into touch as he dived for what could have been the match-winning try.

The result means the reigning premiers must now take the hard road to the grand fnal, beginning with a clash against the fast-fnishing Cofs Comets on Saturday.

The Roosters, missing inspirational skipper Tyronne Roberts-Davis, struggled with poor discipline and handling for much of the contest. Sawtell were relentless in punishing mistakes, and it paid of after three Nambucca turnovers in the opening 10 minutes.

On the third, hooker Tyke Kemp—arguably the Panthers’ best on the day—sent prop Luke Hetherington charging through a gap to score under the posts.

But Sawtell answered immediately. Kemp produced a deft grubber that barely travelled a metre before he pounced himself for a clever try.

Trailing 12-6, the Roosters sparked to life with two brilliant tries. Centre Jack Margetts crossed wide on

Mikaere Beattie converted for a 6-0 lead. Nambucca hit back three minutes later when hooker Jacob Welsh sent lock Jay Melrose through, who then put rampaging forward Zac Johnson over. Dwayne Roberts-Jarrett converted to level the scores.

the right after slick ball movement, before a rehearsed play opened space for fullback Isaac Jones to send Jake Saunders over, snatching the lead.

With halftime looming, Sawtell’s aerial assault on the Roosters’ back three paid of. Kemp darted from dummy half, twisted in the tackle and forced his way over. Beattie’s conversion levelled the scores at 18all.

Sawtell struck frst after the break when Beattie fred a long ball to winger Seth Martin, who scored in

the corner for a 22-18 lead.

Minutes later came the decisive play. Panthers fullback Jay O’Shaughnessy collected a Nambucca kick, accelerated between two chasers and sprinted 70 metres to score under the posts.

A late push from Saunders earned an eight-point try ruling, and Beattie’s boot pushed the margin out to 30-18.

When Nambucca’s discipline slipped again, Sawtell stretched it to 32-18 with 20 minutes left.

The Roosters refused to

fold.

Saunders crossed for his second after a sharp pass from Jones, cutting the gap to 32-24. Nambucca threw everything at the line, with desperate Sawtell tackling denying tries in both corners.

Eventually persistence paid of when Jones put a kick behind the defence and Saunders few through to complete his hat-trick.

The conversion narrowed it to 32-30 with fve minutes left.

The Roosters launched

one last assault, hammering Sawtell’s line before shifting wide in the dying seconds. Inglis dived for the corner—but his foot brushed the sideline as the siren sounded.

For their eforts, Sawtell now face competition leaders Woolgoolga at Solitary Islands Sports Ground on Sunday in the major semi-fnal.

Nambucca hosts the Cofs Harbour Comets in Saturday’s elimination fnal. Both games kick of at 2.10pm.

One of Sawtell’s best for the day, hooker Tyke Kemp takes some stopping from the Nambucca defence.

AS CLEAR AS MUD

By Gary Nichols

As this picture shows, Grafton rugby teams have played in less than ideal conditions. Yet two weekends ago North Coast Rugby cancelled a big weekend of footy on a technicality and grassroots rugby fans are furious.

Photo: Gary Nicholls.