The Northern Rivers Times News Edition 283

Happy Dragon plays Santa for sick kids

By Samantha Elley

The Penman family had a wonderful Christmas surprise last week when they received a visit from Happy Dragon and Little Wings.

With them was a large cache of Christmas presents for the four young girls who all deal with a genetic condition known as Neurofbromatosis or NF1 for short.

“They get tumours that grow on nerves anywhere on their body at any given time,” said mum, Josie, who also has the condition.

“You can get covered in birthmarks and you can get severe pain, learning difculties, autism, ADHD, visual impairment, hearing impairment.

“Wherever this is a nerve in your body, it can grow a tumour at any given time.”

Josie said they discovered the condition when her oldest daughter Aleah had a small lump behind her left ear.

“At frst we had an ultrasound and it just came back as a calcium lump,” she said.

“Within time it had grown to the size of a golf ball and was squashing her ear canal so she was losing hearing in that left ear.”

A biopsy confrmed it was NF1 and she was in pain as it was pressing on the nerve.

“When she was seven,

they removed the tumour,” she said.

“That was done in Sydney.”

With all four girls having received the NF1 gene, the family have to make regular trips to Sydney for treatment as it is the only place an NF1 specialist is located.

“We fy to Sydney with Little Wings,” said Josie.

“If they’re unable to put us on their plane, they put us on a commercial fight.

“They have amazing volunteers that will pick us up from the airport and drive my family to our

accommodation or to the hospital and drive us back to the airport when we are ready to go home.”

Before the help of Little Wings the Penmans were paying for fights and trying work their way from the airport to their accommodation and the hospital.

“My husband owns his own business, so when he’s not working, there’s the loss of income,” said Josie.

“We are down in Sydney usually 2-3 days at a time and at the hospital from 8 to 5.”

Josie gets emotional when she talks of the support she and her family have received from Little Wings.

“They are amazing,” she said.

“I can’t express how I feel.

“It makes me very grateful there are people out there that are willing to help family like mine that live in a rural area.

“Sydney is the only place that has the facilities to suit my four children.”

Aleah, 12, a Year 6 student at Casino Christian School, who was on hand to receive the presents on behalf of herself and her sisters, said she felt good that there were people to help her family.

She and her sisters Lilah, 10, Georgie, 7 and Elsie, 4, manage to visit the Starlight room while they’re at Westmead Children’s Hospital to make the visits fun.

The fight last week was the 500th mission made by Little Wings volunteers to bring some Christmas joy to families who may fnd the season a little harder than most.

Pilot Brett and Happy Dragon allowed Aleah to open two presents which

she was very excited about.

“Thank you so much, Happy Dragon,” she said excitedly when she saw her presents.

The rest of the presents will go under the tree until Christmas morning.

Westpac Casino branch manager, Kerry Bradshaw was on hand to represent the St George team, which is a supporter of Little Wings.

“We’re surprising Aleah and her family with some great Christmas gifts,” she said.

“(Little Wings) is so important because it gives so many families and sick children easy access to get to specialist services and treatments they can only source in the major cities.

“Without Little Wings it would be a huge burden for the families and it just gives them a little bit of peace of mind that things are a little easier.”

Little Wings is a not for proft organisation that provides free, professional, safe fight and ground transport services for seriously ill children in rural and regional NSW, ACT and QLD.

Valley needs to lay out welcome mat for essential workers

By Tim Howard

Clarence Valley Council will lobby the NSW Government to include the region in its statefunded “Welcome Campaign” program after councillors unanimously backed a motion highlighting the Valley’s growing struggle to attract and retain essential workers.

Cr Peter Johnstone brought the notice of motion to the November council meeting, warning that Clarence Valley was being left behind as neighbouring local government areas benefted from programs specifcally designed to help new workers settle into regional communities.

The NSW Government’s Welcome Experience, delivered through the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, operates across a long list of regional LGAs— including the Cofs Coast, Northern Rivers, Mid North Coast, New England regions, the Central West, Riverina, and the Illawarra Shoalhaven.

But despite facing identical workforce pressures, Clarence Valley is not on the list.

“It was disappointing on researching this to see the disadvantage we face here in the Clarence Valley,” Cr Johnstone said.

“All of the surrounding LGAs have a Welcome Campaign.

Many of them also have universities, meaning people go there to study, put down roots, and are more likely to stay. We’re missing out.”

The Welcome Experience provides free, practical relocation support for essential workers— from police and teachers to nurses, paramedics, frefghters, vets, early childhood educators, and aged and disability care staf.

Local Connectors help new arrivals and their families navigate housing, childcare, partner employment, and community integration—support designed to turn short-term placements into long-term residents.

With government agencies and private businesses across the Valley reporting ongoing difculty flling critical roles, councillors agreed the exclusion of Clarence Valley from the program needed urgent attention.

Mayor Cr Ray Smith told the

by area—had slipped through the cracks.

Cr Debrah Novak said the deputation earlier that morning from a local advocate had underscored how important a structured welcome initiative could be.

“It was very heartwarming and insightful. Something like this will go a long way to getting great people to our Valley,” she said.

Cr Karen Toms said she hoped the requested departmental briefng would provide answers.

“Clarence Valley Council is in a bit of a black hole sometimes,” Cr Toms said.

meeting that at the recent Country Mayors Association conference, around 95% of councils represented indicated they had Welcome Campaigns operating in their areas.

Cr Alison Bryant asked whether those councils had secured the program through lobbying. Cr Smith said he was unsure, but undertook to fnd out.

Several councillors voiced frustration that Clarence Valley— one of the largest LGAs in NSW

“We’re a huge council—over 10,000 square kilometres—and often miss out because we sit between two much busier regions.

“I hope there’s a good reason why we missed out, but it might be that we were forgotten.”

Cr Lynne Cairns also backed the motion, saying the community deserved better.

“It’s sad that we haven’t had this beforehand,” she said. “But it’s good to see this being pushed now.”

Under the motion, council will: Seek a formal briefng from the

Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development explaining Clarence Valley’s exclusion.

Advocate directly to relevant NSW ministers for immediate inclusion in the next round of funding.

Investigate the cost of holding a regional workforce summit to bring key employers and service providers together to develop a coordinated Clarence Valley Welcome Campaign proposal.

Cr Johnstone thanked councillors for their support.

“We desperately need professionals coming to the area with key skills,” he said. “I’m hoping this will be agreed by the government. It seems crazy that we haven’t already been included.”

Mayor Smith declared the motion carried unanimously. The council will now prepare its formal approach to the NSW Government, with councillors hoping Clarence Valley will soon join the majority of regional NSW in ofering structured support to new essential workers—and improving the region’s chances of keeping them.

Cr Peter Johnstone was successful with a motion to have the council lobby to be included in a Statefunded Welcome Campaign to attract essential workers to regional areas.

Celebrating our differently abled

By Samantha Elley

Last week marked the International Day of People with Disability and Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg was joined by two members of the Lismore City Council’s Disability and Inclusion Advisory Group (DIAG), Jenny London and Brad Lancaster to acknowledge the day at Lismore Memorial Baths.

“It’s very ftting we are at the pool,” said Cr Krieg.

“We’ve seen some of the extra facilities that Lismore Council’s provided for people with disability and they are a direct result of our Disability and Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP).

“These plans need to be updated every few years and now is the time we are calling for submissions from our community for actions they want to see council put forward.”

Cr Krieg said new tactiles are going in and around the diferent villages and CBD.

“I’ve learnt a lot being on this committee and other members who are visually impaired have taught me a lot about how critical the direction of those tactiles are,” he said.

“So it’s really important for people who aren’t living with a disability to understand how important these things are for some 3,000 people in our LGA that are living with a

disability in some form.

“That’s about seven per cent of our population.”

The new DIAP will outline the key actions to be delivered by council to provide inclusion and protect the rights of people

with a disability in the community.

“We are very keen for the community to be involved in advising the council,” said Jenny London.

“This is an opportunity for people with disabilities

and their families, carers, support workers to have a voice.

“It’s really critical that we get information from the people that live this every day.”

Such provisions have included two mobile lifts at the Lismore Memorial Baths to allow people with mobile impairments to get in the water.

“There are a lot of disabilities that are hidden too,” said Brad Lancaster.

“It’s opened our eyes up in the group where they may look normal but they have disabilities and we are here to help.”

To provide feedback and support towards the development of the next DIAP, go to Your Say Lismore at https://yoursay. lismore.nsw.gov.au/ disability-inclusion-actionplan-2026-2030.

Submissions close December 10 so you will need to be quick.

Bangalow Rallies to Save Its Bowlo as Community Campaign Accelerates

Robert Heyward

In a powerful show of unity, more than 120 Bangalow residents gathered at the Moller Pavilion on 30 November to step up the fght to return the Bangalow Bowling & Sports Club to community control. The meeting represented a major turning point in the Save Bangalow Bowlo campaign, which has been building momentum since the club’s sudden closure by Norths Collective on 24 October.

Representatives from the Save Bangalow Bowlo Steering Committee and the Bangalow Advisory Committee briefed locals on stalled negotiations with Norths, part of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) formed

during the 2022 amalgamation.

The packed gathering—held in sweltering heat—highlighted the irony of a town forced to meet outside the very building long known as its “heat haven.”

An independent building report has since challenged Norths’ claim that the facility is unsafe, identifying repairs that are straightforward and comparatively inexpensive. The revelations only strengthened the community’s resolve.

Volunteer Surge and Fundraising Success

More than 100 attendees signed up for specialised working groups covering maintenance, governance, fundraising, legal liaison, hospitality and heritage. In an extraordinary display of

practical support, over 20 local tradespeople pledged free labour to begin addressing identifed maintenance needs.

Meanwhile, a GoFundMe campaign rocketed past $30,000 in its frst 24 hours, with philanthropic discussions already underway with local families and business owners. These early contributions will form a core part of the community’s viability case—an essential requirement for regaining a club licence.

Concerns Over Norths’ Management

During the meeting, the Steering Committee raised concerns about Norths Collective’s fnancial performance and commitment to the MOU. Figures cited included

a reported $5 million loss across two years and the sale of Seagulls for an estimated $30 million— fuel for questions about whether the Bowlo’s closure is rooted in organisational fnancial strain rather than building safety. The community maintains Norths has breached multiple MOU obligations, including keeping the club operational until at least June 2026.

Next Steps: New Business Model, New Determination

Attendees heard that a draft business plan is progressing, featuring hospitality concepts from local and Sydney operators, revitalised bowling programs, live music, community events

and a sustainable operational structure. A proposal to place the land and building in a protected community trust is also under consideration.

Legal advice has been sought, and the community intends to challenge Norths’ current Expression of Interest process. To maintain momentum, the campaign is urging supporters to donate, volunteer, spread information across networks, and back upcoming fundraising events featuring local musicians. For many residents, the Bowlo represents far more than a sports venue. For more than a century, it has been a gathering place—socially, culturally and historically. The crowd’s energy made one thing clear: Bangalow is determined to get its Bowlo back.

DIAG members Jenny London and Brad Lancaster with Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg and Lismore Councillor Electra Jensen.

E-petition to put spotlight on youth crime punishment

By Samantha Elley

When members of Judith Karam’s extended family were held up at knife point and robbed, she knew she needed to fnd her voice and have a say about the lack of punishment over youth crime.

“The ofenders were arrested and brought before the court,” the Casino resident said.

“Then one was let go.

“Multiple times they have ofended.

“I’d like to focus the attention on the judges as I think they are letting down the police force because it’s the judges that are letting (the ofenders) out.”

Richie instigated this today to help me get 20,000 signatures, said Judith.

Last week, Judith gathered a number of interested and concerned Casino community members, along with Clarence MP Richie Williamson, Richmond Valley Mayor, Robert Mustow and Richmond Valley councillor Stephen Morrisey to set up an e-petition for the topic of sentencing in youth crime to be discussed in the NSW parliament.

“People are saying, ‘Something’s got to be done’.

“People are fed up and they are dissatisfed with what’s happening.

“A lot of people blame the police but I don’t think it is, I think it’s the court system.”

Casino but right across my electorate and more broadly in NSW.

“Just last week the Minns Labor government watered down legislation on youth crime in our parliament.

“The maximum a judge can now sentence a person for community service is 35 hours.

“Previously it was 100 hours.

“The community pays the price.”

“I’m glad Judith has done this,” said Richie.

“We are seeing youth crime become more of a problem, not only here in

The e-petition, entitled ‘Adult Crime, Adult Time’ has been set up on the NSW Parliament website and states that youth crime across Casino and the Northern Rivers has reached an alarming level.

Residents have until 13 May 2026 to add their name to the petition that can be found by googling ‘NSW Parliament e-petitions list’ and searching for ‘Adult Crime Adult Time’.

Council Urges NSW Government to Purchase Former Mullumbimby Hospital Site for Housing

By Jef Gibbs

Consultants engaged by Council recommended an Englobo sale—the sale of the entire developable portion of the site via an

Byron Shire Council is calling on the NSW Government to purchase the former Mullumbimby Hospital site to deliver much-needed public, social, afordable and Aboriginal housing. At its 27 November meeting, councillors considered a detailed report outlining the next steps for redeveloping the site, which Council acquired from the NSW Government for $1 in 2017. The land has since undergone signifcant remediation, with costs now totalling nearly $5.7 million.

Expression of Interest process—to ensure afordable housing and community facilities could be delivered while allowing Council to recover its investment.

However, Mayor Sarah Ndiaye proposed an alternative motion supporting the Englobo sale specifcally to the NSW Government, arguing that state-led

Northern Rivers, find your gift

Everyone has a gift. And at TAFE

we want to help you find yours. Choose from hundreds of affordable, practical courses to get the skills you need.

Enrol now for Semester 1, 2026

+ Maritime

+ Agriculture

+ Veterinary Nursing

+ Automotive Electrical

+ Conservation and Ecosystem Management

development would better align with ongoing commitments to expand housing options across New South Wales.

“The NSW Government is looking for ways to deliver more social and other housing options, and Council believes the old Mullumbimby Hospital site ticks a lot of its boxes,” Mayor Ndiaye said. “As a priority, we invite Minister for Housing Rose Jackson and representatives from Homes NSW and the Reconstruction Authority to a round-table discussion with Council.”

She added that selling directly to the State would allow Council to set clear conditions for the site’s purpose while retaining control of the EOI process to ensure long-established community aspirations are met.

Mayor Ndiaye also thanked residents for their enduring advocacy and vision for the site’s future, saying the community’s commitment to long-term housing security remained central to Council’s approach.

Council will now write to Minister Jackson to request a formal meeting.

Judith Karam in front with Clarence MP Richie Williamson

Giving back to Our House

By Samantha Elley

It was a visit to Our House at Lismore that got Corliss Wagstaf thinking about how she could thank them for looking after her and her husband, Terry, who was having radiation.

“We stayed at Our House in about February-March for a week, my husband was having radiation every day,” said the Doonbah resident.

“So, we were having to go every day and it was too far to keep coming back.

“We got subsidised and while we were there it was comfortable, very clean and the people were very kind and caring, even the cleaners.”

When Corliss found out they were a charitable organisation that depended on donations she felt she

needed to do something to show her appreciation.

“(The Riverside Village) were looking for people to set up market stalls for a market day,” said Corliss.

“So, we decided to hold a rafe and started of with a basket.”

Corliss roped in friend,

Julie Newport, who raced around collecting items to be donated for their rafe.

“Next thing I was getting parcels of food and tinned stuf, Christmas cakes, Christmas puddings, soft drinks, colouring in books, it was phenomenal,” she said.

“This is all within the frst week and (the prizes) were all across the foor in the loungeroom.”

The rafe grew just from one basket to 10 prizes.

“I went to Bunnings Lismore and I thought I’d buy the trolleys and see if I can get a discount,” she said.

“I told him what I was doing raising money for Our House and they ofered us cofee and he ducked out and when he came back he said Bunnings were giving us the trolleys.”

Corliss had a team of friends, organising each of the 10 prizes and they spent Sunday week ago at their village markets selling tickets.

The team had a morning tea last week to announce the full amount that was

going to Our House.

“We thought we would get $50-$100 for rafing a basket,” said Corliss.

“We ended up with a cheque to go to Our House for $6,786.”

Corliss said that fgure was bumped up thanks to other donations, especially from the Riverside Village Garden Club, who donated $1,000.

She would be presenting the cheque to Our House

representative, Tanya Harris-Bateman in the coming days.

Winners of the rafe

1st – Vince Duncan 2nd – Kaz Henderson 3rd – Meryl Adams 4th – Edna Beaumont 5th – Yvonne Vaughan 6th – Narelle 7th – Julie Walker 8th – Tanya O 9th – Tasha Curlew 10th – Terry Kelly

New Online Platform to Boost Regenerative Farming Across the Tweed

Robert heyward

Tweed Shire Council has launched a new online platform designed to bring the region’s farming community together and accelerate the shift toward regenerative agriculture.

The Tweed Regenerative Agriculture Information Network – known as TRAIN – is now live on Council’s Your Say Tweed website. The platform serves as a farmer-led hub where producers can share practical knowledge, on-farm experiences and innovative ideas to strengthen regenerative practices across the region.

Council’s Sustainable Agriculture Project Ofcer, Aiden Sloman, said TRAIN was created in response to strong

community interest in regenerative farming and the need for a central, collaborative space.

“TRAIN is about empowering our local farming community to

share what’s working, learn from each other and build a more resilient and connected agricultural future for the Tweed,” Mr Sloman said.

A key feature of the

platform is TRAIN Talks, a moderated discussion forum where farmers can ask questions, exchange insights and connect with others tackling similar challenges. The platform also promotes local workshops, grants, events and opportunities while encouraging innovation through the exploration of trials and emerging techniques.

TRAIN’s broader goals include strengthening community relationships, supporting soil health and biodiversity, and improving long-term farm productivity. Farmers and landholders are encouraged to sign up via Your Say Tweed and begin contributing to the online discussions.

“The frst step is to grow this network,” Mr Sloman said. “We need community members visiting the TRAIN page, starting or contributing to conversations, or inviting others to get involved.”

The initiative is funded through the NSW Environmental Trust under Council’s Proftable Regenerative Farming Program

Rafe results – Corliss Wagstaf with all the prizes for the Riverside Village market day.

The team that helped Corliss (holding the cheque) be able to present over $6,700 to Our House.

Club Evans is the hub of beautiful Evans Head in northern NSW by providing a new, safe, inviting and exciting venue offering great food, awesome and free entertainment, feature shows, TAB, FREE Wi-Fi, Foxtel and plenty of promotions for all our guests.

Council gifts old steamroller to restoration group

By Tim Howard

A century-old steamroller that has long sat idle in in a Grafton park will be given a new life after Clarence Valley councillors voted unanimously last week to donate the heritage machine to the Shannondale Steam Shed. The decision followed months of community consultation and two separate council reports, which considered options ranging from selling the steamroller to restoring it in situ.

The steamroller sat in Gordon Wingfeld Park, near Grafton Base Hospital, for decades.

Of the six submissions received during Council’s expression of interest process, half recommended gifting the roller to the volunteer-run steam shed at Glenreagh.

Research provided by the Clarence River

held by the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences for its engineering signifcance.

Although not formally listed as a heritage item, councillors acknowledged its historical value as one of the machines that helped build early Grafton’s roads, wharves and public spaces.

The only complication came from council’s own Disposal of Assets policy.

to the Shannondale Steam Shed Association Inc, which has committed to relocating, restoring and publicly displaying the machine.

Cr Novak praised a young volunteer who addressed councillors earlier in the day, saying the deputation

skills.

“It’s more than just preserving an old piece of machinery,” she said. “Machinery like this helped build the roads, wharves and neighbourhoods that connected our early communities...

separate resolution under the heritage grants item to allocate $2000 to the Shannondale Steam Shed to assist with its relocation and restoration eforts.

Historical Society indicates the steamroller was manufactured in England between 1920 and 1922 by Aveling & Porter, one of the world’s leading producers of steampowered road equipment. Markings on the body identify it as a ‘D’ model— similar to another roller

General manager Laura Black cautioned councillors that the roller had not yet been formally declared surplus—usually a prerequisite for disposal. She advised that if councillors wished to proceed, the simplest approach would be to explicitly waive the policy conditions.

Councillors agreed, adopting a motion from Cr Cristie Yager and seconded by Cr Debrah Novak to donate the roller outright

If we don’t act now, it may soon be beyond saving, becoming a liability and a cost to council.

demonstrated the organisation’s passion and capacity.

“This asset will be going to an extremely loved, great home,” she said.

In her right of reply

Cr Yager delivered an impassioned defence of the roller’s historical worth and the value of preserving traditional mechanical

Cr Yager also foated a long-term vision, suggesting the restored roller could feature in celebrations for the 100th anniversary of the Grafton “Bendy Bridge” in 2032. The debate briefy intersected with Council’s Heritage Assistance Grants report, also on the agenda.

That report noted early internal discussion about allocating $2000 from the heritage grants budget to support the roller’s preservation.

Although councillors did not amend the steamroller motion itself, they later approved a

The remainder of the heritage grant budget was split between a $10,000 contribution to the restoration of the Grafton Post Ofce cupola and funds reserved for next year’s round.

The fnal vote on the steamroller donation was carried unanimously, with all nine councillors present in favour and none against.

The roller is expected to be relocated to the Shannondale Steam Shed in coming months, where volunteers will begin the long process of restoring it to working—or at least display—condition.

Once completed, it will remain accessible for the Clarence community to view.

Record Crowd Turns Out as Lismore Flood Buyback Auction Sells 12 Homes

Jef Gibbs

A record crowd gathered in Lismore this week as the region’s food buyback program continued to attract national attention, with 12 more homes auctioned for relocation under the state’s Resilient Homes Program. Nearly 100 people attended the ninth auction, held at the Lismore Heights Bowling Club, where bidders secured homes for prices ranging from just $400 to $79,000 Run by Wal Murray & Co First National Real Estate, the auction drew 45 registered bidders, including eight participating by phone. Buyers included tradespeople, young families and business owners — many already with suitable food-free land ready for relocation. All 12 homes were sold, reaching a combined total of $250,900 Among the standout results were:

19 Simmons Street, North Lismore — $79,000 315 Keen Street, East Lismore — $35,000 241 Molesworth Street, Central Lismore — $41,000 9 First Avenue, East Lismore — $22,500 39 Barrow Lane, North Lismore — $1,000 314 Molesworth Street, Central Lismore — $400 With no reserve prices, homes are among the most accessible on the

Australian market, with past sales ranging from $1 to $200,000. Successful buyers now have 12 months to relocate the houses, with typical moving costs expected to exceed $100,000 depending on size and condition.

Strong Community Interest and Positive Outcomes

More than 118 homes have now been ofered for sale since December 2024,

with another two auctions scheduled before Christmas — two homes in Casino on 6 December, and ten homes in Lismore on 9 December. The auction program will pause over the holidays before resuming in early 2026.

Minister for Recovery and North Coast MP Janelle Safn said the strong turnout demonstrated the growing appeal of the buyback program.

“The sight of so many young families and frsthome buyers making a successful bid is a great thing for our community,” she said. “The interest shows people see the value in giving these homes a second life.”

Kristie Clarke, Acting Head of Adaptation, Mitigation & Reconstruction at the NSW Reconstruction Authority, said the initiative has helped many families

achieve home ownership for the frst time.

“Up to 118 homes have been ofered for sale and eventual relocation. This is an amazing outcome and we still have more homes to be auctioned before Christmas,” she said. All proceeds from the sales, after costs, are reinvested into the Resilient Homes Program to support more foodafected Northern Rivers residents.

Landholders Embrace New Tools to Improve Soil Health Across the Northern Rivers

Robert Heyward

Local landholders are halfway through a twoyear soil improvement program aimed at boosting farm productivity and protecting waterways across the Northern Rivers. The initiative, funded through the $5 million Northern Rivers Watershed Initiative (NRWI), covers the Richmond, Evans, Brunswick and Tweed catchments and is designed to support both environmental and economic outcomes.

Participants have spent the past eight months monitoring soil conditions using the SoilMentor app, gathering data on everything from earthworm activity to

soil structure. A recent workshop brought farmers together to discuss the fndings with soil specialists and explore strategies to build healthier, more resilient soils.

Council Agriculture

Extension Ofcer Mark Duncan said the simple act of counting earthworms has already proven valuable.

“Earthworm numbers are a simple way to measure if actions taken to improve soil health are efective,” Mr Duncan said. He added that encouraging a diverse mix of plant species—including deeprooted varieties such as chicory and plantain—can signifcantly improve water infltration, soil carbon, and above – and below-

ground biodiversity.

Farmers also discussed the renewed role of trees in restoring soil function, including retaining nutrients and increasing carbon storage.

Ryan Severn, Manager of Farm Development and Sustainability at The Farm Byron Bay, said the project has strengthened collaboration across the region.

“It’s an excellent initiative that strengthens our collective capacity to enhance soil health and water management,” he said.

Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said improved soil health underpins the region’s agricultural success.

“This project will help

landholders build more productivity and resilience into their land,” she said.

Minister for the North Coast Janelle Safn said investing in soil health is also investing in the region’s future.

“This initiative will help farmers adapt to changing conditions while safeguarding the natural assets that make the Northern Rivers such a special place.”

The program continues into next year, with landholders set to develop soil improvement action plans. Findings will be shared with other farmers to demonstrate how regenerative soil management can help “Slow the Flow” and build long-term resilience.

The rusting steamroller now surrounded by security fencing in a Grafton Park will be restored to its former glory through the efort of the Shannondale Steam Shed.

Council considering direct vote for mayor

By Tim Howard

Clarence Valley Council

will investigate the cost of using automated telephone surveys to gauge public sentiment on whether the mayor should be elected directly by voters, after a spirited debate at last month’s council meeting.

Councillors voted 6–3 in favour of seeking further information and costings on the polling option, which proponents say could provide a low-cost way of measuring community appetite for a constitutional referendum in 2028.

Under NSW law, councils elect their mayor unless the community has voted in a referendum to switch to a popular vote. Clarence Valley has considered the issue before — most recently in 2019 — but has never taken it to a referendum.

The report before councillors set out the fnancial hurdles.

The next local government election in 2028 is projected to cost the council about $535,000. Adding a referendum would tack on another 10% — about $53,700.

If voters approved the

change, each future election would cost an additional 10% to administer mayoral ballots.

Three external consultants advised staf on engagement options, ranging from community surveys to deliberative panels.

The report noted that the most reliable methods also carried the highest price tags, and none could perfectly replicate the conditions of a referendum.

fraction of the price.

Cr Johnstone told councillors that automated polling, often used by political parties, could cost as little as 50 cents to $1 per call.

“For a population of 55,000 people, statistics say we need a random sample of at least 400 people to get a result within 5%,” he said.

“If the cost is going to be very cheap, this could be a way to decide if

“I actually was going to jump in straight away and request that we just go ahead with the constitutional referendum, because it is the ultimate of consultation,” she said.

Cr Cristie Yager, who moved the successful motion, said she was torn between the democratic principle behind a referendum and the signifcant costs involved.

But with election costs rising, Yager said she wanted a clearer picture of cheaper alternatives.

The suggestion of automated telephone surveys — robo-polling — came from Cr Peter Johnstone, who said they can deliver statistically meaningful results at a

a referendum is worth pursuing.”

He suggested conducting one poll early to measure baseline sentiment, then another immediately before councillors decide whether to put the question to voters in 2028.

“If it’s likely to fail, then at that stage, we pull the plug. If it’s likely to pass, then that might be a time when we go forward.”

Cr Debrah Novak backed the motion, describing the debate as “a conversation about democracy”.

“Local government is the closest arm of democracy to the people,” she said. “This is a really important discussion for the community to have.”

Cr Novak also queried arguments in the staf report that a popularly elected mayor would be “inconsistent” with how premiers and prime ministers are chosen.

“We don’t elect parties at local government — we elect people,” she said.

Cr Karen Toms admitted she was unfamiliar with automated polling technology (“I imagine it’s some AI machine asking you questions”) but supported seeking more information.

She emphasised that while she personally did not support a popularly elected mayor, the motion was about exploring consultation methods, not deciding the referendum question.

Cr Alison Bryant also backed the move, saying automated polling was straightforward and balanced compared with social media-based surveys.

However, Cr Shane Causley took the opposite

view, concerned that a directly elected mayor could have no experience on council.

“I look back at the last 12 months and look at what Ray (Mayor Smith) has had to put up with,” he said.

“It just worries me that we get inexperienced people running the show.”

Greens councillor Greg Clancy expressed deep ambivalence, noting the tension between grassroots democracy and widespread voter confusion about how local government works.

“Popular does not necessarily mean competent,” he warned.

“But councillor-elected mayors have their own risks too.”

In closing the debate, Yager stressed that the vote was not about endorsing or rejecting a popularly elected mayor — only about gathering more information.

“I ran for council to advocate for choice,” she said. “I don’t think it’s our role to decide. People can learn. They can get the opportunity to have their say.”

Cr Yager said her own early experience on council

some spirited debate at the last council meeting.

— watching the behindclosed-doors lobbying around the mayoral vote — convinced her the community should ultimately choose its mayor.

“It was like eating jelly with a fork. It was messy... and it completely spun me around, away from the community,” she said. “It did become selfsh — it was about us.”

Those voting in favour were Crs Novak, Bryant, Yager, Toms, Johnstone and Smith. Crs Causley, Clancy and Cairns opposed the motion.

Staf will now prepare a report on the feasibility and cost of automated telephone polling, which will return to council at a later date.

NRWI Projects Strengthen River Health and Climate Resilience Across the Northern Rivers

Jef Gibbs

Rous County Council has unveiled a new interactive online platform showcasing the growing suite of environmental projects being delivered through the Northern Rivers Watershed Initiative (NRWI). The ArcGIS StoryMap brings together detailed visuals, maps and project updates, ofering the community an accessible window into work aimed at restoring ecosystems, improving water quality and

strengthening the region’s resilience to extreme weather.

Funded through a $5 million NSW Government commitment, the NRWI supports on-ground works across the Richmond, Evans, Brunswick and Tweed catchments. These projects include largescale riparian restoration, rehydration of degraded landscapes, redesigned foodplain drainage systems and programs to improve soil health on local farms.

Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said sharing progress with the community is essential to building awareness and support.

“Increasing the region’s health and resilience is an investment in its future,” she said.

Minister for the North Coast Janelle Safn highlighted the collaborative nature of the initiative, noting the importance of councils, community groups and

government working together.

“By investing in natural systems, we’re building resilience from the ground up—protecting waterways, improving soil health and supporting farmers,” she said.

Rous Catchment and Cultural Awareness Manager Anthony Acret said the StoryMap allows residents to see how local projects are taking shape.

“This is about showing people where projects

are happening and the impact they will have— from slowing fows and stabilising eroded banks to improving soil health on farms,” he said. “It’s a program that’s as much about people as it is about rivers.”

Rous General Manager Phillip Rudd said the NRWI refects a unifed commitment to restoring the region’s natural systems.

“By investing in riverbanks, soil health monitoring and biodiversity,

we’re enhancing water security and community resilience in a changing climate,” Mr Rudd said.

Delivered by Rous in partnership with six councils, North Coast Local Land Services, the Casino Food Co-op, Landcare networks and community groups, the NRWI addresses longterm challenges in river health, food mitigation and ecological recovery. More StoryMaps will follow as further projects progress.

Cr Cristie Yager’s proposal to fnd out if Clarence voters wanted to directly elect the mayor sparked

Sweating up a storm for Our Kids

By Samantha Elley

It’s only three months until Samson 2026 returns so it’s time to get the sweats out and build up that cardio.

Kylie Newton from the 41st Battalion Royal New South Wales Regiment (41 RNSWR) will be there, helping raise money for the Our Kids purchase of a $75,000 ventilator for Lismore Base Hospital’s Special Care Nursery.

“I had my twins, Tai and Rhys, prematurely,” Kylie said.

“And the support and care, when they were in the humidicribs, we received from Our Kids was wonderful.

“We also received so much additional support, so I decided to get involved with the Samson to help raise money.”

Kylie has gone from being a competitor in the Samson to now being a committee member.

On 7 March 2026, teams from across the region will come together to compete in this iconic Northern Rivers ftness challenge and help raise vital funds for Our Kids.

The Samson is a fourperson team event featuring twelve demanding challenges, including a farmers walk with jerry cans, a prowler push, a 130kg truck tyre fip, a burpee challenge, a 2 x 2km run, a 1km team swim,

a sled pull and an obstacle course If that wasn’t enough, to complete the course 100 burpees are required from each team.

The fastest team will take home the coveted Samson title.

The 2026 event marks the 16th Samson and will again

feature a full weekend program with Samson Solo, Samson Teen Sprint and Samson Kids, giving the whole community an opportunity to take part.

The 41st Battalion Royal New South Wales Regiment (41 RNSWR) and the Goonellabah Sports and Aquatic Centre

(GSAC) team have also continued their strong support for next year’s event, with the army donating equipment to assist the day and GSAC to host the much-loved swim leg.

“The Samson is an extraordinary event that attracts people from across New South Wales and South-East Queensland. It brings the community together and, along with our huge team of volunteers, helps put Lismore on the map for sport and ftness,”

Now open at Ballina Central, Wattlebee Baby is the Northern Rivers’ only independent boutique bringing everything for bump, baby and beyond together in one beautiful space. Holiday Specials at Wattlebee Baby

Maxi-Cosi Bonus Gift

Rebekka Battista, Our Kids Fundraising Coordinator, said.

“It is a great way to get involved and help support local children when they need medical care.”

Registrations for Samson 2026 are now open. Early bird registration is $360 per team.

To register or to learn more about the course, visit www.lismoresamson. com.

For more information, please contact the Our Kids ofce on 6620 2705.

Buy any Maxi-Cosi car seat or capsule before 15 December and receive a free Maxi-Cosi mirror. Safe travels start here.

Uppababy Stroller Offer

Purchase any Uppababy stroller before 20 December and get a free Uppababy Bevvy Cooler. Perfect for summer family adventures.

Christmas Giveaway

Spend $100 in store before 20 December and go in the draw to win our Christmas Giveaway.

1st Prize: Mother’s Choice Adore Car Seat 2nd and 3rd Prizes: Gift hampers Winners drawn 22 December.

@wattlebeebaby | wattlebeebaby.com.au

Ballina Central Shop 8, 44 Bangalow Road, Ballina ˜near IGA and Direct Chemist Outlet°

Samantha Gordon, Chris Van Bibber from GSAC and Kylie Newton

Samantha Gordon, Kylie Newton, Chris Van Bibber, Rebekka Battista and Sandie Judd of GSAC.

Author’s legacy released in second book

By Samantha Elley

It was last year in 2024 that Graham Smith released his book ‘Red Earth, Red Blood’, a historically fctional story about the pioneers on the Northern Rivers.

He was 95 years old and sadly he passed away early in 2025, although he did get to see the enjoyment people had at reading his book that took him around 20 years to write.

While in the editing process, it was strongly suggested to Graham that the book be split in two as it was a very large story.

“He wanted to print the whole book and we suggested splitting it into two because it was going to be enormous,” said Graham’s son, Chris.

The second part of the book is soon to be released and is aptly named ‘Red Earth, Red Blood II’. It picks up on the lives of the O’Reillys, Riordans and Baillies some twenty years after the frst book.

The Boer War has started overseas and some of the characters will have more than just a passing interest in its events.

The next generation of the pioneering families are making their mark on the world, whether it be in South Africa, America, Europe or in the burgeoning country of Australia.

Printing the sequel to Red Earth, Red Blood was a no-brainer for the family, despite Graham’s passing.

“Obviously, (the story) was almost complete and we didn’t consider not printing it,” said Chris.

“It was the thing to do and it is what he wanted as well.”

Chris said the family has received positive feedback around the frst book as people have engaged with the characters and asked to know more about what happened to them.

“They do get to fnd out in the second book,” he said.

“(Dad) had an afection for his characters and would be so pleased people want to know the rest of the story.”

The frst book is at the following outlets and will soon be accompanied by Red Earth, Red Blood II:

l Hemlocks Bookstore, Woodburn

l The Book Warehouse, Lismore and Ballina

l Miles & Henry Bookstore Café, Alstonville

l Mid Richmond Historical Society, Coraki

l The Book Room, Lennox Head

l Clay by Smegg, Casino Check with your local outlet and place your order to make sure you receive your copy.

While you are at it and if you haven’t delved in the lives of those living in the Big Scrub, get yourself a copy of Red Earth, Red Blood as well.

Deadline Nears for Northern Rivers Homeowners as Resilient Homes Program Enters Final Phase

Jef Gibbs

Northern Rivers homeowners are being urged to lodge fnal applications for the Resilient Homes Program, with key deadlines approaching as the landmark food-recovery initiative moves into its fnal phase.

The NSW Government has issued a last call for eligible residents to apply for voluntary buybacks or grants to repair, raise or retroft homes to withstand future fooding. Buyback applications close 31 December 2025, while resilient repair grants remain open until 31 March 2026

The program will conclude entirely by June 2027

Since launching in 2022, more than 1,300 homeowners have progressed through the buyback process, with over 930 ofers issued and 732 homes settled. All settlements are expected to be completed by mid-2026.

The program—Australia’s

largest climate adaptation initiative—aims to remove households from the highest-risk food zones while guiding future land use planning across the region. Eligible homeowners may receive up to $100,000 to raise, rebuild or relocate, $50,000 for food-resilient retrofts, and an additional $20,000 for planning costs. Eligibility has recently expanded in Mullumbimby, Tumbulgum, South Lismore, Woodburn, Coraki, Broadwater, Wardell and Murwillumbah, allowing more foodimpacted households to apply.

Minister for Recovery Janelle Safn said the fnal stage ensures families have the support needed to make informed decisions. NSW Reconstruction Authority Acting Head Kristie Clarke said the program has already delivered meaningful outcomes and urged residents to seek assistance early.

Application for Appointment of Board Members

The Channon 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 The Channon Public Hall Reserve Land Manager manages the Reserve No. 88821 at The Channon notifed on 12-Jan-1973 for Public Hall Site, Reserve No. 140076 at The Channon notifed on 31-Jul-1992 for Environmental Protection, Rural Services, Public Recreation. The term of appointment will be for a period not exceeding 5 years.

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

All applications are required to be lodged by 12 January 2026

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

Bringing the rubbish and savings back to Lismore

By Samantha Elley

When the 2022 food wiped out the Lismore Recycling and Recovery Centre (LRRC), rubbish had to be carted up to Queensland at a massive cost to council and, therefore, the taxpayer, of $1.7 million in transport costs annually.

“If you’ve seen the time-

lapse footage of February 28, 2022, watching (the Centre) go under water and see the impact the food had on it and to today ofcially open our landfll site is so good on so many levels,” said Lismore mayor, Steve Krieg.

“I also want to acknowledge our team from Council, it goes

across many layers a project like this and also the contractors, Pentacon and Public Works.

“Many, many diferent arms have contributed.”

Cr Krieg said on top of the transport costs there were waste levies that had to be paid to the Queensland government while work on Cell 2B, the current open section of the landfll centre, was underway.

“What it means now is those levies stay in New South Wales to help us recover our waste facility,” he said.

“It’s really good to have it open before Christmas as it wasn’t due to be open for another six months.”

Originally established in the 1960s, the landfll at the LRRC on Wyrallah Road has served as the central disposal facility for Lismore’s residual waste for decades. The Australian and NSW governments provided $15.6 million under the jointly funded Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements and works were managed by Lismore City Council’s Flood Restoration portfolio.

“Who would have thought we’d get excited by opening the landfll but we know how important it is to

wasn’t possible.”

The cell foor lining system is what stops leachates from the rubbish making its way into the soil and the restoration included reinstating environmental safeguards.

our local community, to our local economy and it does save money,” said NSW Lismore MP and Minister for Recovery, Janelle Safn.

“I’ve been asked, ‘Why did it take so long?’ and I said it was because they had to dry the liner and we’ve had such wet weather that

“Cell 1, which is now complete and Cell 2A which is full as well and now Cell 2B, which will recommence landfll.

“(The liner) is a geosynthetic clay liner, a composite lining system that allows us to safely collect the leachate, treat it and discharge it and

it doesn’t damage the environment.”

Council is also progressing long-term planning for future waste management with investigations underway into a new regional landfll that can service the community for the next 50 years.

“Our estimate is that Cell 2B has seven to 10 years left,” said Nick. “Where we go after that we are not certain at present, so we are currently investigating alternative locations.”

NSW Launches New Training Resources to Address Abuse of Older Women and Women With Disability

Jef Gibbs

The NSW Government has released a new suite of training resources aimed at helping frontline workers better identify and respond to the rising abuse of older women and women with disability. The initiative was unveiled as part of the 16 Days of Activism to End Gender-Based Violence, refecting growing concern about the oftenhidden violence afecting vulnerable groups. Evidence from the Ageing and Disability Commission (ADC) shows older women and women with disability face disproportionately high levels of domestic, family and sexual violence. Nearly two-thirds of all reports received by the Commission relate to violence against women, and over the fve years to June 2024, almost 19,000 cases were recorded — a 109 per cent increase.

To respond to this

escalating trend, the NSW Government has launched free, traumainformed training modules for frontline workers across ageing, disability, and DFSV sectors. The modules cover practical tools such as identifying early signs of abuse, recognising harmful behaviours, documenting incidents, responding to disclosures, safety planning, and supporting victim-survivors to report abuse safely.

This marks the frst partnership between the ADC and the

NSW Women’s Safety Commissioner to create statewide training shaped through consultation with older women, women with disability, and sector specialists. Funding has also been strengthened, with an additional $8 million invested this year, increasing the ADC’s annual baseline budget to $7.2 million.

Minister for Disability Inclusion Kate Washington said the training equips workers with vital tools to intervene early.

“No-one should be subjected to violence or

abuse, especially not older women or women with disability,” she said.

Minister for Women, Seniors and the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said older women continue to face signifcant vulnerability, including fnancial abuse and higher rates of violence by known ofenders.

Women’s Safety Commissioner Dr Hannah Tonkin said the new resources provide inclusive, person-centred guidance, while Ageing and Disability Commissioner Jef Smith emphasised the importance of early detection by frontline workers. Sector leaders, including Older Women’s Network CEO Yumi Lee, stressed that meaningful training is key to driving cultural and systemic change. The new training modules are now available on the Ageing and Disability Commission website.

Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg and Minister for Recovery, Janelle Safn check out the site with Lismore City council staf and Pentacon contractors

Rubbish dump opens – Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg and Minister for Recovery, Janelle Safn cut the ribbon as the frst load of rubbish is dumped in the newly opened Cell 2B.

We’ve got three cells here at Wyrallah Road,” said Nick Baker, Deputy Director, Waste Program.

Council Expands Koala Zones to Reduce Road Strikes Across Tweed

Tweed Shire Council has strengthened its eforts to protect the region’s threatened koala population, expanding Pottsville’s Koala Zone and improving signage along Terranora Road to reduce the risk of vehicle strikes. The upgrades follow a rise in local koala movements and multiple reports of animals crossing busy roads in recent months.

Last month, Council installed a 1.5-kilometre extension of the Koala Zone along Pottsville Road, adding new

Whispers

pavement markings and additional signage beyond the ambulance station and Shackell Transport.

confrmed vehicle strike west of the previous zone boundary.

Improved Signage for

Vehicle strikes remain one of the most significant threats to koalas, especially during low-light hours,” Ms Hopkins said. “Drivers generally respond well to the 50 km/h limit within the existing zone, and extending it will increase awareness and encourage more cautious driving where koalas are known to cross.

Conservation Planning

Ofcer Marama Hopkins said the extension is in direct response to recorded koala movements and a

Terranora Road

To further support driver awareness, Council replaced seven small koala signs with larger, more

of the Wild – New Solo Exhibition by Stacey Conridge

Coldstream Gallery in Ulmarra is proud to present Whispers of the Wild, a solo exhibition of predominantly en plein air artworks by Clarence Valley painter Stacey Conridge. Known for her ability to capture the landscape with immediacy and emotional depth, Stacey brings the region’s rivers, forests and open skies to life through works created directly on location.

Painting outdoors allows Stacey to respond to the shifting light, changing weather and quiet movements of the natural world. In Whispers of the Wild, she turns her focus to the intimate moments that defne the Clarence Valley — early morning stillness on the river, the warm haze of summer afternoons, and the subtle play of shadow across paddocks and bushland. Her paintings celebrate the character of the Valley as locals know it: vibrant yet peaceful, rugged in places and gentle in others. Each canvas holds the energy of the moment it was created, ofering viewers a sense of standing right beside her brush as she works. The exhibition showcases a selection of new pieces completed over the past year, refecting Stacey’s ongoing commitment to exploring place, light and mood through direct observation. Whispers of the Wild invites audiences to slow down and reconnect with the landscapes that surround us daily but are often overlooked. Stacey’s painterly approach

highlights the beauty found in quiet scenes — the glint of sunlight on water, the soft rustle of trees, the calm that settles at dusk.

The exhibition opens at Coldstream Gallery in Ulmarra on Wednesday, 3 December and runs through to Sunday, 25 January. This free event welcomes everyone to enjoy the works and, on selected days, catch Stacey Conridge during live demonstrations and casual meet-and-greets. Dates and times will vary, so visitors are encouraged to check the gallery website or Facebook page (@ColdstreamGallery Ulmarra) for the latest details.

For more information, visit www. coldstreamgallery.com.au

visible versions along Terranora Road. The upgrade follows around 20 koala sightings in the Terranora area this season, including multiple females with joeys. Koalas have also been reported crossing roads and entering suburban backyards around Terranora and Bilambil.

With the summer breeding season well underway, koalas are travelling more frequently, making road crossings especially dangerous. Council is urging drivers to stay alert near bushland,

reduce speed in known koala areas and report any koalas seen near roads to wildlife carers, even if they appear uninjured.

More Awareness Measures Coming

Variable message signs will be deployed at key Tweed locations during the summer holidays to further remind motorists they are driving through koala habitat. These works form

part of the Tweed Coast Koala Plan of Management and are funded under the NSW Government’s Koala Strategy.

Council says the expanded zones and improved signage represent an important step in reducing koala fatalities and supporting the long-term recovery of the species on the Tweed Coast.

Santa’s Wonderland Returns to Bring Christmas Magic to Lismore

Jef Gibbs

Lismore is set to welcome the festive season in true community style, with Santa’s Wonderland returning to the Lismore Regional Gallery from 5–21 December. The much-loved attraction once again forms the centrepiece of the city’s Christmas celebrations, ofering families a joyful and immersive experience throughout the holiday period.

Operating Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 10.30am to 3.30pm — with extended Thursday sessions until 5.30pm — the Wonderland invites families to explore, play and capture special memories. Bookings for Santa photos are essential and can be

made via xmasinlismore. com, where pricing and session details, including low-sensory options, are available.

New This Year: Pawtraits for Pets

In a fun addition for 2025, Lismore will host Pawtraits, allowing pets to join in the festive fun. The Quad will host the pet-friendly photo sessions on 6, 13 and 20 December from 10.30am to 3.30pm — ofering families a chance to capture a truly unique Christmas moment with their furry companions.

Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg encouraged residents and visitors to embrace the holiday spirit and support local businesses.

“I encourage everyone to visit Santa’s

Wonderland, get some photos and while you are down there, do some Christmas shopping and support our local businesses,” he said.

“Christmas is a special time in our community,

and we’re proud to bring a range of festive events that highlight everything we love about Lismore.”

Festive Events Across the City

Alongside Santa’s Wonderland, Lismore’s Christmas program features a range of family-friendly events and initiatives, including:

l Shop, Spin & Win: Spend over $30 at a participating independent store in December and enter for a guaranteed prize.

l Elf Hunt: Children can search for hidden elves in local shop windows throughout the month.

l Carols in the Heart: Returning to Crozier Field on Saturday 6 December, with gates opening at 3pm. More information on all Christmas activities can be found at xmasinlismore.com

GRAFTON ROWING CLUB’S STUNNING NEW CLUBHOUSE OPENS ON THE BANKS OF THE MIGHTY CLARENCE RIVER

Clarence Nationals

MP Richie Williamson has congratulated the Grafton Rowing Club on the ofcial opening of their stunning new clubhouse on the banks of the mighty Clarence River.

Mr Williamson said the magnifcent building, now a centrepiece of Grafton’s riverside and Memorial Park precinct, is a real credit to the Grafton Rowing Club, the architects, and local builder, Ron

van Vyfeyken from Nanobuild who used local tradies to deliver this fantastic project.

“The brand-new facility represents an exciting new chapter to Grafton’s sporting and community landscape,”

Mr Williamson said.

“This is a truly magnifcent clubhouse that enhances the riverside precinct and provides modern, resilient facilities for rowing and community events.

“The Grafton Rowing Club has a proud history and this project ensures it will continue to be a hub for sporting and community activities for generations to come,” Mr Williamson said.

The redevelopment includes modern rowing facilities, a covered public viewing deck, a multi-purpose function room, cafe, kitchenette, and bathroom amenities, providing a vibrant space for both the Club and the wider community.

The redevelopment also incorporates food mitigation measures, ensuring the upperlevel facilities remain outside the 1-in-100year food zone. The lower-level boathouse has been upgraded with fexible boat racking and levelled foors, improving functionality and resilience during food events.

The new clubhouse will support school rowing programs, social and competitive rowing, as well as community gatherings, meetings, and functions, strengthening

Grafton’s cultural and recreational oferings. The project was made possible through a $3.76 million grant from the former NSW Nationals in Government, in partnership with the Federal Coalition Government, via the Bushfre Local Economic Recovery Fund which supported job creation and retention in bushfreimpacted communities. A co-contribution was also provided from the Grafton Rowing Club for the restoration of the historic 143-year-old building.

Grafton Rowing Club ofcial opening.

Left to right: Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg, Oscar (2), Santa Claus, Daina (4) and Deputy Mayor Jeri Hall.

Grafton Rowing Club – building & tradies

Pool Owners Urged to Prioritise Safety as Summer Swim Season Intensifies

Robert Heyward

Tweed Shire Council is urging all pool owners and tenants to check their safety barriers and maintain vigilant supervision as backyard swimming activity surges with rising temperatures.

The reminder comes as Council reports increased use of private pools across the region, prompting renewed concern about preventable drowning incidents and compliance with the NSW Swimming Pools Act.

Council’s Manager of Building and Environmental Health, Iain Lonsdale, said both property owners and tenants share responsibility for ensuring their pools remain safe and compliant.

“With summer here, and use, it’s imperative that property owners and tenants actively supervise young children at all times when using the swimming pool,” Mr Lonsdale said.

“Active supervision is the frst line of defence.

Just like at the beach, you should never leave a child unattended near water.”

Mr Lonsdale said safety inspections continue to reveal worrying trends, particularly around access gates.

“Alarmingly, we fnd

that around 90% of pools inspected in Tweed Shire have gates that do not latch properly,” he said.

“This fault can allow a child to easily open the gate and enter the pool enclosure. We also regularly see gates

propped open with pot plants, rocks or other objects for convenience — a dangerous practice that can have tragic consequences.”

Under the Swimming Pools Act, pool owners are required to:

• Ensure the pool is surrounded by a compliant, childresistant safety barrier that separates the pool from the home and any neighbouring properties.

• Keep all doors and gates providing access to the pool securely closed.

• Display a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) sign in good condition and easily readable from three metres away, including for portable pools.

Council is encouraging residents to review safety requirements and undertake regular checks of their pool areas. Helpful guides and compliance information are available at tweed.nsw.gov.au/ SwimmingPools, while current pool compliance status can be verifed at swimmingpoolregister. nsw.gov.au

Closely supervising young swimmers in backyard pools is essential for their safety.

“Leemo has views on just about anything”

‘MUM

(it’s Leemo Cat back!) My feline shrewdness tells me something is very out of sync. Mum’s up to something? I called the Buddies to come quick & explained: ‘Mum Jane’ left here this morning at 7:15am and was picked up by a TAXI? AND she was carrying a back-pack? Now tell me, using your astute ‘VERA Detectiving’ cat skills. WHY didn’t she go in our own little car? WHY did she have a backpack? WHY did she leave 2 BOWLS of food for me? (they won’t last long!) WHY didn’t she tell me where she was going & hug me before she left? ‘Pasqualie’ profered a query: ‘What was she wearing Leemo?’ Hmm! ‘I recall she was in her generally scrufy attire – nothin’ special.’ ‘Well’ said (‘Pasqualie’) she’s obviously not having an ‘afaire de cœur’ or she would have ‘dressed to impress’ with rouge, perfume, a nice frock, jewels & stuf. CRIKEY this is dire! ‘Brutus spoke out – I reckon she’s gone to a ‘Rolling Stones’ concert ‘cos she’s always playing em & I hope she gets me Keith Richards’ autograph.’ ‘FlufyBum’ spoke. ‘I believe she’s run away & is catching a bus somewhere? You are most recalcitrant at times Leems & she’s possibly had just enuf of your antics?’ Oooh – guilt enveloped me like a spectral black phantom. Crikey, we debated for ages with no resolve. ‘Treasure’ spoke – I think I know where

she is ‘Leemo, she was ‘probly going on a CWA Breakfast Meeting bus trip - old ladies do such things. AND, I think the backpack was full of scones & pickles & stuf to share?’ I fgured this was plausible so I let the buddies share my 2 bowls of food: then we watched ‘Bluey’. Time passed but I ended up in a state of great agitation: Empty food bowls? No brush sessions? Litter tray was not cleaned, THEN, after almost 6 ½ hours she arrived home with her buddie Janelle who was helping her ‘cos Mum had an horrendous black eye with blood & stuf oozing OMG! ‘MUM, WHERE have you been? Why have you got a black eye? Was there a bify brawl on the CWA Breakfast Bus trip? Which one bifed you? (the Buddies were listening, looking fascinated & started gossiping!) She sat in her armchair & glared from her ‘good eye’ & shouted most loudly, ‘QUIET, ALL OF YOU – if you don’t have something nice to say DO NOT SPEAK! Eeekie! She spoke again. ‘For your information I have been at hospital having a surgical procedure done on my right bottom eyelid. After admission I had to wait for some 5 hours before surgery and THAT’S IT! AND, for your information, CWA Members do NOT get involved in bifng or physical brawls of ANY nature. We most certainly have strong opinions & intelligent exchanges of view on certain topics & at times our meetings can be like Parliament. To date, however, no Member has turned up wearing a Burqa in SUMMER’ I spoke: ‘Oh, poor Mumsie..I think you should rest now but could you fll my bowl & clean my Litter Tray First please. Aaarrgh: her good eye was looking positively malevolent! I skittered outside real quick along with the buddies. Nitey, 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.

Response from the Mayor to Councillor Lynne Cairns letter to The Northern Rivers Times

It would appear that Councillor Cairns is endeavouring to reverse the long-held belief that one is innocent until proven guilty!

This is evident by virtue of the fact that she is insisting that I provide the facts to refute the claims made by Dr. Cohn thus inferring that I or CVC is guilty, and we have to prove our innocence.

I stand by the adage that one is innocent until proven guilty thus, Dr, Cohn needs to produce her evidence of the misconduct and wrongdoing that she has claimed and when she can do this, I will provide my response.

This is a very unfortunate distraction from what we have been elected for and I, for one, am totally frustrated with the relentless attempts, by some, to be continually looking for anything negative about council, the general manager or council staf.

Let’s focus on the many

positive achievements of Clarence Valley Council and, as councillors, be proud of those achievements.

Ray Smith PSM - Mayor Clarence Valley LISMORE’S UPCYCLED CHRISTMAS TREE

The new recycled Christmas tree is brilliant. It’s fun, colourful and uniquely Lismore — exactly what the CBD needs this time of year. I love that it celebrates sustainability without lecturing anyone. Some people complain it’s “not a real tree”, but honestly, it’s far better: creative, responsible, and very Lismore. Well done to the team who built it.

— M. Turner, Grafton

LAND VALUATION RECORDS – GOOD NEWS FOR WHO, EXACTLY?

Land values are up again, but every time the government cheers, my rates and insurance follow. Byron land up 13.8%? Great if you’re selling — not so great if you’re just trying to survive. Rising values don’t improve livelihoods; they just increase bills. Maybe celebrate when afordability rises, not just valuations.

— P. Holder, Ewingsdale LEEMO, NIGEL & BOOKS BRING BALANCE

Every Thursday I fip straight to three things: Leemo’s weekly chaos, Nigel’s beautifully refective column, and Samantha’s book review. Together they’re the perfect trio — one makes me laugh, one makes me think, and one puts another book on my reading list. It’s rare for a paper to ofer that much heart and personality. Keep them all coming!

— D. Farnham, Kingsclif

CRITICISM OF THE RECYCLED TREE

While I appreciate the efort behind the upcycled Christmas tree, I’m not convinced it works visually. Yellow bin lids don’t exactly scream festive magic. After ten years, maybe it’s time to rethink the concept rather than simply repeat it. Lismore deserves something uplifting — not something that looks like a recycling PSA in tinsel.

— S. Martin, Ballina

“I ATE FOUR AND REGRET NOTHING”

Dear cooking pages: HOW DARE YOU. I made the pavlova trees “for a party,” then ate four standing over the sink like a Christmas gremlin. The combination of raspberries, whipped cream and coconut snow transported me somewhere between the North Pole and a sugar coma. If the writer releases a cookbook, I’ll buy two copies—one for the kitchen, one for the glovebox in case of favour emergencies.

— K. Melrose, Tweed Heads South

FLOOD READINESS REALITY CHECK

The “29% food ready” statistic shouldn’t shock anyone. Many households are still traumatised, still rebuilding, and still confused about changing warnings and evacuation advice. The new pumps and the disaster dashboard are great steps, but trust will only rebuild through clear information and consistent action.

— R. Fielding, Yamba

PRAISE FOR FLOOD PREP INITIATIVES

Full credit to Council and emergency agencies for making food readiness a priority. New pumps, new cameras, clear dashboards — exactly what we need heading into storm season. I attended the Be Flood Ready session and was impressed with how practical the advice was.

— T. Wallace, Evans Head

Leemo’s Nativity

Disaster = Comedy Gold

Leemo’s Nativity ReEnactment had me howling. The “three Wise Men” arriving as wildlife ofcers was the funniest twist I’ve read in ages. Only Leemo could turn a simple Christmas idea into a full-blown neighbourhood drama. Please never rein him in — the Buddies’ chaos is good for the soul.

— M. Harwood, Mullumbimby

Nigel Makes Philosophy Feel Human

Nigel’s piece on the fve senses was stunning. Lines from Yeats, Kant and Virginia Woolf in one gentle, grounded column — exactly what I needed after a frantic week. His writing feels like sitting down with a wise friend who reminds you to actually notice the world.

— E. Stratton, Kyogle

“THE RECIPE WRITER IS A MENACE (OF THE BEST KIND)”

Whoever writes these recipes is clearly trying to ruin my diet, my dignity, and my plans for a quiet Christmas. I made the bacon-wrapped chicken parcels and witnessed relatives I barely like fghting over the last one like it was the fnal parking spot at Aldi. The favours? Outrageous. The caramelised edges? Illegal. The compliments I received? Not proportionate to the minimal efort I put in.

— D. Adams, Inverell

FREE WATERSLIDE TICKETS DEBATE

The Clarence Valley waterslide ticket giveaway is a great idea made messy by overthinking. Let kids have a fun day without turning it into a bureaucratic puzzle about who’s “worthy”. Sometimes a simple community gesture should stay simple.

— L. Preston, Maclean

SUPPORT FOR TARGETED TICKETS

I actually think Cr Johnstone had a point — the tickets should prioritise families doing it tough. A random spread through schools sounds fair, but many families genuinely need help to participate. Universal giveaways feel nice but don’t always reach the right people.

— F. Hargreaves, Woolgoolga

HEALTH WARNING ABOUT TICKS

The recent tick anaphylaxis cases are a sharp reminder to take bush safety seriously. Many locals still think ticks are a minor nuisance, but allergies can be lifethreatening. Thanks to NNSWLHD for the clear advice about freezing rather than pulling.

— D. Kearns, Pottsville

Inclusive Leemo Makes My Week

I love how Leemo’s column always manages to sneak a life lesson in among the madness. This week’s “Be Kind, be Inclusive” moment was gorgeous — even if it took Marley the puppy dobbing them in to get there! In a noisy world, Leemo gives us laughter with heart.

— S. Cormack, Pottsville

JANE’s BLACK EYE’

RAIL TRAIL PRIDE

So proud to see the Northern Rivers Rail Trail winning awards again. It’s become a real jewel — beautifully maintained, welcoming, and packed with visitors who then support local businesses. Critics should take another ride; the benefts speak for themselves.

— E. Cornell, Murwillumbah

ESV RATE HIKE REJECTION

Good on Clarence Valley Council for knocking back the environmental levy. With cost-of-living pressures so high, adding more to ratepayers’ bills is unfair. Environmental work matters, but trust must be rebuilt before asking households for more money.

— J. Randle, Grafton

DISAPPOINTED ABOUT THE ESV DECISION

I’m disappointed the environmental levy was rejected. Consultation numbers were tiny — hardly a reliable sample. We need investment in environmental resilience, especially with increasing disasters. People oppose levies until nothing gets repaired, then they complain again.

— C. Harrold, Casino

More Nigel, Please! Nigel’s columns are the frst thing I read every Thursday. He challenges readers without lecturing, and his refections linger long after the paper’s been recycled. In a region that loves creativity, he’s a perfect ft — thoughtful, soulful and refreshingly diferent to the usual noise.

— T. Bennett, Nambucca Heads

SANDHILLS

WETLANDS RETURN

The restored Sandhills Wetlands are a triumph. Beautiful, functional and culturally respectful — exactly what modern infrastructure should look like. Flood mitigation paired with ecological restoration is smart planning. Early signs of returning wildlife are a joy to see.

— P. Latham, Byron Bay

AGING & HOME CARE DELAYS

A huge relief to see Australian Unity opening in Ballina. Too many locals have been left waiting for support they’re entitled to. The home care system is confusing and slow, and older people shouldn’t need a full-time advocate to get basic help.

— V. Henderson, Lennox Head

CHRISTMAS BOAT MAGIC

The Yamba–Iluka Christmas Boat is one of the most joyful traditions on the river. It’s wholesome, handmade and wonderfully community-driven. I love that it runs on solar power. It’s exactly the kind of festive magic our region does best.

— A. Schultz, Iluka

WORRY ABOUT THE NYMBOIDA TUNNEL

The Nymboida tunnel situation is genuinely worrying. Total reliance on a failing structure is unacceptable. I’m glad direct negotiations are underway, but the public deserves regular updates. A region-wide boil-water alert in summer is not something we can risk.

— K. Matthews, Glenreagh

A Great Outlander Review

Samantha’s review of Dragonfy in Amber was spot on. Clear, warm and enticing — it made me want to restart the entire Outlander series from book one. I love how these reviews give just enough detail to hook you without spoiling the journey.

— P. McAlister, Woolgoolga

“THE CHICKEN THAT CHANGED MY PERSONALITY”

I made the Ultimate Christmas Chicken and I swear my family now looks at me with the kind of respect usually reserved for surgeons or people who win meat trays. That brown sugar–paprika sprinkle? Life-altering. The bacon? Spiritual. I tasted it and briefy considered proposing to myself. If this recipe gets any better, I’ll start entering cooking competitions I have no business being in.

— H. Watson, Brunswick Heads

MARINE RESCUE

NSW

Congratulations to Keith Smith on becoming the Northern Rivers Regional Director. Marine Rescue volunteers are the unsung heroes of our coastline. They deserve strong leadership and community support — especially during the busy holiday boating season.

— O. Barrett, Kingsclif

BUSHFIRE RISK

TECH

Great to see Essential Energy leaning into AI and improved modelling to reduce bushfre risk. As seasons get hotter and longer, we need smart, proactive tools like this.

It’s reassuring to know NSW is watching global developments and not staying stuck in old methods.

— W. Drayton, Nambucca Heads

Book Reviews I Trust Every Week

The book reviews are one of my favourite parts of the paper. They’re concise, honest and always highlight something I’d actually want to read. The mix of genres is great too — from historical fction to thrillers, there’s always something new for the bedside table.

— J. Collins, Evans Head

DISASTER ECONOMIC REPORT

The $4 billion loss from recent disasters is staggering, but the resilience of the Northern Rivers shines through. Agriculture, tourism and small business have been hammered, yet recovery continues. The Disaster Adaptation Plan must be practical, funded and fast.

— H. Merriman, Lismore

“THE PAVLOVA TREES ARE DANGEROUSLY GOOD”

Those White Christmas Mini Pavlova Trees should come with a warning label: “May cause festive delusion.” I made a batch and suddenly believed I was hosting a cooking show. I told my husband to “camera two me” while I sprinkled coconut like it was a snowstorm in Times Square. They tasted so good even the dog sat politely for a bite, and he’s usually a deviant.

— S. Kearney, Bellingen

What’s it all mean...?

By Nigel Dawe

AKIN to a philosopher’s tomb to the unknown soldier, someone once said “For all we know we might be the pattern on the carpet underneath the feet of the incomprehensible...” I say unknown because I have long forgotten where my mind frst collected this non-diminishable treat; even after a thorough google search, I’m still none the wiser.

But that’s the nature of well-framed thoughts, they belong to everyone, and I’m sure whoever frst launched the above thunderclap would’ve relished the fact I’ve since forgotten who they were, having fully lost them in the luminosity of what they actually said.

Fittingly, Joseph Campbell (author of The Hero with a Thousand Faces) once said, “Life has no meaning. Each of us has meaning and we bring it to life. It is a waste to be asking the question when you are the answer.”

White hot on Campbell’s intellectual heels is Anais Nin (the refective diaristextraordinaire who was born to Cuban parents in France at the turn of last century) having once chimed, “There is not one big cosmic meaning for all; there is only the meaning we give to our life, an individual meaning, an individual plot, like an individual novel, a book for each person.” And what a lovely image this presents: a mammoth library full of books that are written according to the lives we each uniquely live.

On the topic of libraries and books, I remember spending an entire uni break reading as many of the world’s most sacred tomes as I could. And

if you want an odyssey, then nothing compares to making your way through the Bible, the Dhammapada, the I Ching, the Koran, and the Bhagavad-Gita all in unbroken succession. Which gave an added dimension to Elias Canetti’s notion, “What if all that counts is the tenderness one evokes in those who come later? Remembered breath and unconfused words?... The modest task of the poet may in the end be the most important one: to transmit what they have read.”

Relatedly, Amit Ray once very succinctly noted, “It does not matter how long you are spending on the earth, how much money you have gathered or how much attention you have received. It is the amount of positive vibration you have radiated in life that matters.” And matter, it most certainly does, not in a way you can see increase like a bank account, but rather like a night sky that deepens as each night goes by. As if looking in the same vicinity, Christopher Hitchens once refected, “A life that partakes even a little of friendship, love, irony, humour, parenthood, literature, and music, and the chance to take part in battles for the liberation of others cannot be called ‘meaningless’.” What makes a life meaningful can vary from person to person, but some throughout history have touched on facets of this question that near on can’t be questioned. None more so than Johann Gottfried Herder, having once said, “To think what is true, to sense what is beautiful and to want what is good, hereby the spirit fnds purpose of a life in reason.”

From all of us, Thank you to our

customers and readers of NR Times

Please have a safe, wonderful and memorable Christmas and New Year

Cherry Street Sports Unites Community for First International Day of People with Disability Celebration

Jef Gibbs

More than 165 community members came together today at Cherry Street Sports for the club’s inaugural celebration of the International Day of People with Disability, marking a signifcant new event for inclusion and connection in the Northern Rivers.

Hosted in partnership with AusCare at Cherry Street, the free event welcomed people with disability, along with their carers, families and friends, for a day designed to recognise talent, diversity and contribution across the region. From the moment the doors opened, the club buzzed with warmth and positivity as guests moved through a range of accessible, lowsensory and interactive activities.

The program ofered live music, inclusive lawn games, a calm sensory tent, Lego and creative art stations, face painting, and an open-mic space where participants shared stories, songs and personal talents. The focus remained on dignity, celebration and creating a space where everyone felt seen, respected and

welcomed.

“Today was all about shining a light on the incredible people in our community,” said Jackson Connellan, Marketing and Community Engagement Manager at Cherry Sports Group. “We wanted to create a day where people with disability, their carers and their families could come together, feel welcomed, and enjoy the club as their space. The atmosphere was full of smiles, connection and

genuine joy.”

Following the success of the inaugural celebration, Cherry Street Sports and AusCare have already committed to making the event an annual fxture — one that refects broader state and national eforts to recognise and champion people with disability.

“Our vision is to make this a staple event each year — something that people mark in their diaries and look forward to,” Mr Connellan said.

“Clubs are community hubs, and days like today show just how important that role is. We’re grateful to everyone who attended, supported, volunteered and helped bring this celebration to life.”

ClubsNSW and its media partners are encouraged to share the event as a strong example of the role local clubs can play in building meaningful, practical inclusion for people with disability, their families and carers.

NSW Tightens E-Bike Safety Rules Ahead of Christmas

Jef Gibbs

The NSW Government has announced a major safety overhaul for e-bikes as their popularity surges across the state, particularly among teenagers. The changes arrive just weeks before Christmas, when thousands of families across the Northern Rivers are expected to purchase new e-bikes. Under the reforms, the maximum legal power output for e-bikes in

NSW will drop from 500 watts back to 250 watts, bringing the state in line with all other Australian jurisdictions. Ofcials say the previous increase to 500 watts led to a wave of highpowered devices that are difcult for parents and police to distinguish from electric motorbikes. The Government argues that returning to a 250-watt limit will reduce risks for young riders on streets, shared paths and local roads.

The state is also reviewing the road-rule defnition of an e-bike to prevent motorcycleclass devices being sold as bicycles. At a national level, the Commonwealth will reinstate import requirements ensuring all e-bikes entering Australia meet the European EN 15194 safety standard. The aim is to keep lowquality, easily modifed bikes out of the country. Parents purchasing e-bikes this Christmas are being urged to check for

When all hope seems lost, a sliver of light appears

Title: Voyager

Author: Diana Gabaldon

Price: $19.99

Distributor: Booktopia

We are now to book three of the Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon and the adventure and suspense does not stop.

EN 15194 certifcation, confrm the motor does not exceed 250 watts and avoid models that have been altered or had speed limiters removed. Riders are also reminded to wear helmets, avoid carrying passengers and comply with local road and path rules.

State ofcials say the updated standards are expected to come into efect within months, following consultation with retailers and the community.

We know that Claire hightailed it back to the 20th century to protect her and Jamie’s unborn child, living with the awareness she would never see Jamie again as he would die on the battlefelds of Culloden.

But would he?

Badly injured and taken into custody by the English to face execution or imprisonment, Jamie has to deal with the fact he will never see Claire again.

Claire is now in 1968,

her daughter, Brianna is a young adult and her frst husband, Frank, has died.

Once Brianna actually believes Claire’s story, with the help of young historian, Roger McKenzie, they start to trace Jamie’s life through the archives of history when they discover that he didn’t die in the bloodbath of Culloden. Instead, we follow the torturous life he experiences, frst hiding from the English, then in prison before he fnally receives a pardon and pieces his life back together over the next 20 years.

Then, one day, he receives an unexpected visitor and his life is turned around again. You can pick up your copy of Voyager from booktopia.com.au

December 11, 2025 ENTERTAINMENT

Zootopia 2 (2025) – Movie Review

Jef Gibbs

Zootopia 2 brings audiences back to Disney’s bustling, multicultural metropolis of mammals, delivering a vibrant sequel that balances humour, heart and timely social messages. Arriving nearly a decade after the original flm charmed the world, this new instalment reunites Ofcer Judy Hopps and her sly partner Nick Wilde for a fresh adventure that feels both warmly familiar and excitingly new.

The sequel opens with Judy and Nick now frmly established as Zootopia Police Department’s most dynamic duo. Their latest case begins innocently enough, but quickly escalates into a complex conspiracy threatening the harmony of the entire city. When a powerful tech company unveils a device that promises to “optimise” society, Judy’s instincts tell her something isn’t right. Nick’s street-smart charm and Judy’s unshakeable optimism collide as they uncover hidden

motives, secret alliances, and a threat that could divide predator and prey once again.

Ginnifer Goodwin and Jason Bateman return to voice Judy and Nick with the same irresistible chemistry that made the frst flm so memorable. The banter between them remains sharp and afectionate, grounding the story with genuine warmth. Supporting favourites like Chief Bogo, Clawhauser and Bellwether reappear, along with several new characters who add depth to the city’s expanding landscape.

Visually, Zootopia 2 is a triumph. Disney animators take full advantage of modern rendering technology, elevating the world’s textures, colours and character designs to dazzling new levels. From the neon-glow of Sahara Square at night to the icy sparkle of Tundratown, every district feels alive and bustling with detail. The soundtrack blends upbeat pop with cinematic orchestration, reinforcing the flm’s emotional beats while

SCREENINGS AVATAR:FIREANDASH(2D) CTC

Sat, Sun: 1:30PM, 3:45PM, 6:00PM

VALUE (CTC) AWARDS SEASON SCREENING Sun: 3:00PM THE CURE: THE SHOW OF A LOST WORLD (CTC) Thurs: 8:00PM. Sat: 3:00PM

DAVID (PG) NFT Sat: 11:00AM. Sun: 10:45AM. Mon, Tues, Wed: 10:50AM

PETS ON A TRAIN (PG) Daily except Sun: 10:50AM, 2:00PM. Sun: 10:50AM, 1:50PM

keeping younger viewers entertained.

While the sequel remains family-friendly, it doesn’t shy away from meaningful themes. Much like the 2016 original, the flm explores prejudice, trust, and the way fear can be manipulated for power. However, Zootopia 2 introduces new commentary on technology, misinformation and the fne line between “safety” and “control.” These ideas are handled with a light touch, ensuring they complement rather than overshadow the fun.

Most importantly, the flm retains its heart. Judy’s belief in fairness, Nick’s loyalty disguised behind sarcasm, and their unshakeable partnership create a story that resonates across generations. For Australian families, Zootopia 2 ofers a clever mix of adventure, comedy and thoughtful storytelling— making it one of Disney’s strongest sequels in recent years.

« 4.5 out of 5 stars

ZOOTOPIA 2 (PG) Thurs, Fri, Mon, Wed: 10:45AM, 1:10PM, 2:00PM, 3:30PM, 5:45PM. Sat: 10:45AM, 1:10PM, 2:00PM, 3:30PM, 6:15PM. Sun: 10:30AM, 12:45PM, 1:10PM, 3:30PM, 5:45PM. Tues: 10:00AM, 10:45AM, 1:10PM, 2:00PM, 3:30PM, 5:45PM ALL FILMS

BUGONIA (MA15+) Thurs, Fri, Wed: 3:15PM. Mon, Tues: 3:15PM, 8:00PM

ELLA MCCAY (M NFT Daily: 10:45AM, 1:10PM, 3:30PM, 6:00PM

ETERNITY (M) Thurs, Mon, Wed: 11:00AM, 6:10PM. Fri: 11:00AM, 8:00PM. Sat: 11:00AM, 8:30PM. Sun: 8:00PM. Tues: 6:10PM

FIVE NIGHTS AT FREDDY'S 2 (M Thurs, Mon, Tues, Wed: 1:30PM, 4:00PM, 8:30PM.

Fri, Sat: 1:30PM, 8:30PM. Sun: 5:00PM, 8:30PM JUJUTSU KAISEN: EXECUTION MA15+ Thurs, Fri: 1:20PM, 8:30PM. Sat: 10:50AM, 8:15PM. Sun: 12:45PM, 7:50PM. Mon, Tues, Wed: 1:20PM, 8:15PM KOKUHO M) NFT Daily: 11:00AM, 2:30PM, 3:50PM, 6:00PM

NOW YOU SEE ME: NOW YOU DON'T (M) Thurs: 10:50AM, 8:30PM. Fri: 10:50AM, 8:15PM. Sat: 8:15PM. Sun: 11:10AM, 8:15PM. Mon, Tues, Wed: 8:30PM

NUREMBERG (M Daily except Sun: 11:00AM, 4:00PM, 7:00PM. Sun: 10:45AM, 2:50PM, 7:30PM SILENT NIGHT, DEADLY NIGHT (MA15+) NFT Thurs, Fri, Mon, Wed: 3:40PM, 8:20PM. Sat: 12:50PM, 8:20PM. Sun: 12:45PM, 8:20PM. Tues: 3:40PM, 6:00PM, 8:20PM

TWIGGY M) Thurs, Fri, Mon, Wed: 11:15AM. Sun: 10:45AM WAKE UP DEAD MAN: A KNIVES OUT MYSTERY M) Daily except Sun: 12:45PM, 7:15PM. Sun: 7:15PM WICKED: FOR GOOD PG Thurs, Mon, Tues, Wed: 11:10AM, 1:15PM, 4:15PM, 5:45PM, 7:00PM. Fri, Sat: 11:10AM, 4:15PM, 5:45PM, 7:00PM. Sun: 11:10AM, 2:50PM, 5:45PM, 6:45PM

AVATAR: FIRE AND ASH ( 2D) (CTC GRAND PREVIEW Wed: 7:00pm AVATAR: FIRE AND ASH ( 3D) (CTC 3D GRAND PREVIEW Wed: 6:30pm DAVID (PG) NFT Sat, Sun, Mon, Tues: 10:00AM. Wed: 12:30PM ETERNITY (M Thurs: 10:00AM, 7:40PM. Fri: 7:40PM. Sat, Sun, Mon, Tues: 2:30PM, 7:40PM. Wed: 6:45PM FIVE NIGHTS AT FREDDY'S 2 (M Thurs: 12:30PM, 2:40PM, 5:00PM, 7:40PM. Fri: 2:40PM, 5:00PM, 7:40PM. Sat, Sun, Mon, Tues: 12:20PM, 5:00PM, 7:40PM. Wed: 4:20PM MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS CTC MATINEE MEMORIES Wed: 10:00AM PETS ON A TRAIN (PG Daily except Wed: 10:00AM, 2:45PM

WAKE UP DEAD MAN: A KNIVES OUT MYSTERY (M Daily except Wed: 4:50PM WICKED: FOR GOOD PG Daily except Wed: 12:00PM, 4:50PM, 7:15PM. Wed: 1:15PM, 3:30PM ZOOTOPIA 2 (PG) Daily except Tues, Wed: 10:15AM, 12:30PM, 2:45PM. Tues: 10:00AM, 12:15PM, 2:45PM. Wed: 1:15PM, 4:00PM

PALACE BYRON BAY

BALLINA FAIR CINEMAS

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

–followed by addition and/or subtraction, in whichever order they appear.

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 COLLIMATE

(a) To come into violent contact

(b) To bring into line

(c) To form into a colony

2 EGREGIOUS

(a) Growing in fields

(b) Extraordinarily bad (c) Living in flocks or herds

3 MALEVOLENT (a) Showing ill will (b) Failing to function properly (c) Harmful in influence or effect

4 TACITURN (a) Inclined to silence (b) Perceptible to the touch

(c) Of or relating to tactics

5 UBIQUITOUS

(a) Willing to obey

(b) Present everywhere

(c) Corruptive

1 La Recoleta Cemetery is one of the most popular attractions in which South American capital city?

(a) Buenos Aires

(b) Santiago (c) Lima (d) Montevideo

2 What does the Latin phrase, annus mirabilis, mean?

(a) Short year (b) Horrible year (c) Long year (d) Wonderful year

3 Abu Dhabi has a coastline on which body of water?

(a) Gulf of Aden (b) Gulf of Oman (c) Red Sea (d) Persian Gulf

4 In 1986, who released the memoir, Going Solo?

(a) Maurice Sendak

(b) J. R. R. Tolkien

(c) Roald Dahl (d) Robert Ludlum

(a) Game of Thrones

(b) The Walking Dead (c) Vikings (d) Doctor Who

6 In which year did Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay reach the summit of Mount Everest?

(a) 1941

(b) 1930

(c) 1953 (d) 1915

5 Melisandre is one of the main characters in which TV series?

ALFAKODO

WEEKLY CROSSWORD

BEST ON THE BOX

SUNDAY CRICKET

SEVEN, 7pm

The summer of cricket is now in full swing, treating fans to action left, right and centre. Between Saturday night’s WBBL nal, the third Ashes Test commencing in Adelaide tomorrow and the electrifying action of the BBL beginning tonight, cricket lovers are spoiled for choice by the sport’s overlapping xtures. Live from the Furnace, the rst match-up of the Big Bash season pits the Perth Scorchers against the Sydney Sixers. After an early exit in BBL14, the Sixers (aided by new signing, Pakistani superstar Babar Azam) will be eager to make a statement against the most successful side in the league’s history. As Aaron Finch (above) puts it, “The best thing about the BBL is the unpredictability”.

FRIDAY, December 12

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Portrait Artist Of The Year. (PG, R) 11.05 The Forsytes. (PG, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon.

THURSDAY MOVIE: JACK REACHER

TEN, 8.40pm, M (2012)

Tom Cruise (right) plays author Lee Child’s titular cop-turned-drifter who becomes part of the investigation when a former army sniper takes the rap for gunning down ve innocent people. But as defence lawyer Rosamund Pike quickly discovers, Reacher may prove to be more trouble than he’s worth.

Directed and adapted from the ninth Reacher novel Shot by Oscar-winning writer Christopher McQuarrie (The Usual Suspects the rst movie outing for Child’s vigilante is tailormade for Cruise, whose wry demeanour conceals a penchant for pursuing justice with a combination of force and intelligence. Legendary German director Werner Herzog almost steals the show as the disquieting villain, The Zek.

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

1.00 The Newsreader. (Final, Ml, R) 2.00 Grand Designs Australia. (R) 3.00 QI. (PG, R) 3.30 Nigella Bites. (R) 3.55 Grand Designs New Zealand. (R) 4.40 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 WorldWatch. 9.15 Outta Town Adventures. (R) 10.15 Leave No Trace. (PG) 11.10 Who Do You Think You Are? (PG, R) 12.00

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

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

7.30 Australian Chamber Orchestra’s 50th Gala. Hosted by Jeremy Fernandez and Megan Burslem.

8.30 Maigret. (Final, Mav) Tragedy strikes in Saint-Fiacre. Maigret’s absence in Paris has terrifying consequences.

9.25 Hard Quiz. (Final, PG, R) Tom Gleeson grills four fan favourites who are experts on topics in a comedic quiz show.

9.55 Crime Night! (Final, R) Hosted by Julia Zemiro.

10.25 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)

10.55 ABC Late News. (Final)

11.15 Silent Witness. (Final, MA15+a, R)

12.15 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

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

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Jaws: Making A Splash In Hollywood. Charts the making of Jaws

8.30 William Shatner: You Can Call Me Bill. (Mav, R) An intimate portrait of actor William Shatner’s nine decade-long personal journey.

10.15 SBS World News Late.

10.45 Sisi. (Ma, R)

11.40 Culprits. (MA15+v, R)

1.50 Soldiers. (Mal, R)

3.35 Growing A Greener World. (PG, R) 4.35 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6am Morning Programs.

WEDNESDAY HARD QUIZ BATTLE OF THE NETWORKS

King of snark Tom Gleeson (middle nally picks on someone his own size (but not really, TV stars are universally tiny) in this turbocharged edition of his hit quiz show. It’s the State of Origin for Australian TV, with Seven’s Larry Emdur, ABC presenter Leigh Sales, 10 entertainment queen Angela Bishop and Nine’s Karl Stefanovic all competing for the big brass mug. Alas, with only four podiums SBS doesn’t get a look in.

The banter is quick, the barbs are sharp and the rivalries erce as the veteran hosts are tested on their knowledge of Aussie game shows, TV show openers, Phil Collins and Australian cricket respectively to defend their home network’s honour.

6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer. Johanna Griggs and Adam Dovile visit an award-winning two-bedroom home that was once a car parking space.

8.30 MOVIE: The Holiday. (2006, Mls, R) Two women who live on opposite sides of the Atlantic impulsively switch homes for Christmas. Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, Jude Law.

11.10 MOVIE: Morbius. (2022, Malv, R) A biochemist is transformed into a vampire. Jared Leto, Matt Smith. 1.15 Miniseries: Any Human Heart. (Malns)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

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

7TWO (62)

9.30 BBC News At Six. 10.00 Mastermind Aust. Noon DW The Day. 12.30 Dark Side Of Comedy. 2.10 History’s Greatest Of All-Time With Peyton Manning. 3.00 Bamay. 3.40 BBC News At Ten. 4.10 France 24. 4.40 PBS News. 5.40 If You Are The One. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Virgin Island. 10.30 Adam Hills: The Last Leg. 11.20 Married To The Music. 12.50am Letterkenny. 2.15 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera. 6am The Zoo. 6.30

To The Country. 7.30

9.00

Zoo. 2.30

1.00

8.00

9.30

To

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 Swimming. Australia v The World. From The Valley Pool, Brisbane.

10.30 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+av, R) The taskforce uncovers a sinister robbery scheme.

11.30 Next Stop. A look at holiday destinations.

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

1.00 Drive TV: Launch Pad. (R) Jessica Lydka-Morris tests an electric vehicle.

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) An inspector visits the park.

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Postcards Summer. (PG, R)

VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 1.10pm Octonauts. 2.45 The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 3.40 Fizzy And Suds. 4.10 Andy’s Safari Adventures. 4.25 Mojo Swoptops. 5.30 Peter Rabbit. 6.05 PJ Masks. 6.25 Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.25 Hard Quiz Kids. (Final) 8.55 Robot Wars. 9.55 Merlin. 10.35 O cially Amazing. 11.05 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 Golden Girls. 8.30 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family. 10.00 Bewitched. 10.30 Jeannie. 11.00 The West Wing. 12.10pm Pretty Little Liars. 3.00 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 Jeannie. 6.00 Golden Girls. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 MOVIE: 10 Things I Hate About You. (1999, PG) 9.30 MOVIE: Never Been Kissed. (1999, PG) 11.40 Seinfeld. 12.40am Ghost Hunters. 1.40 The Vampire Diaries. 3.30 LEGO Friends: Girls On A Mission. 4.00 Late Programs. 6am Hook,

Country. 2.00

Town. 3.00 The Great Australian Doorstep. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Wildlife ER. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.

9GO! (83) 6am A United Kingdom. (2016, PG) 8.10 Living. (2022, PG) 10.00 Breath. (2017, M) 12.10pm The Eight Mountains. (2022, M) 2.45 The Movie Show. 3.45 Arthur’s Hallowed Ground. (1984, PG) 5.10 Fried Green Tomatoes. (1991, PG) 7.30 One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest. (1975, M) 10.00 La Chimera. (2023, M) 12.35am Mothering Sunday. (2021, MA15+) 2.30 There’s

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

7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. (R) A couple’s Morningside Queenslander has always been small, but the arrival of a baby changed everything.

9.50 The Graham Norton Show. (Mls, R) Graham Norton is joined on the couch by Brie Larson, Tom Hiddleston, Billy Porter, Claudia Winkleman and Myles Smith. 11.00 10’s Late News.

11.25 10 News+. (R) Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 12.20 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.30 Home Shopping. (R)

TARGET TIME

M E T

A L L

E

E N Today’s target: 18 words average 22 words good 26+ words excellent

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

STARS & PUZZLES

ASTROLOGY with Joanne

ARIES (Mar 21 - Apr 19)

Expect a frustrating and/or disappointing week, as Mars (your boss planet) squares Saturn and Neptune. Maybe you’re trying to do something, but it feels like you’re driving with the handbrake on. Or you keep coming up against resistance from other people. Or a plan may be too impractical to survive in the real world. Time to pause, be patient, reassess and then start again next week. Friday onwards is a good time to read, write, research, publish and/or travel.

TAURUS (Apr 20 - May 20)

This week’s stars highlight the constant balancing act between individual needs and relationship responsibilities. Adventurous Uranus (in Taurus) emphasises the importance of maintaining your individuality and prioritising personal projects. Whereas the Sun, Mercury, Mars and Venus (your ruling planet) shine a spotlight on your partner, relatives and/or close friends. Are you meeting their needs, as well as your own? And is your trust in someone well-placed?

GEMINI (May 21 - June 20)

Attached Twins – this week’s stars are good for cementing your commitment to your sweetheart, as you find extra romantic ways to show affection. Singles – give superficial suitors a wide berth. Look for lasting love with a clever Libran, a stable Sagittarian or a charismatic Aquarian. And – when it comes to your wellbeing – don’t just talk about improving your fitness levels. Be proactive, jump off the comfy couch and get physical in the great outdoors!

CANCER (June 21 - July 22)

Lucky, plucky Jupiter is visiting your sign, plus Mercury forms positive aspects to Saturn and Neptune in your aspirations’ zone. So you need to be more proactive and focused about turning current opportunities and vague dreams into future good fortune. Where intention flows, energy goes! Inspiring motto for the moment is from birthday great, poet Emily Dickinson: “Fortune befriends the bold.” When it comes to a burgeoning friendship or romance, don’t rush.

CROSS WORD FIND

LEO (July 23 - Aug 22)

Attention Cats … your inner muse is calling! Inspiration is high as the Sun (your ruler), Mercury, Venus and Mars activate your creativity zone. So it’s a fabulous week to express your fiery energy as you sing, dance, draw, paint, perform, write, take photos or play music. But expect some Uranian disruptions at home or work, especially midweek. Clever Lions will slow down, think before you speak and consider the possible consequences before you act.

VIRGO (Aug 23 - Sep 22)

Apart from some midweek disruptions (courtesy of Uranus), this week looks very good. Monday’s Mercury/Saturn trine is terrific for mental focus and disciplined work. Thursday’s Mercury/ Neptune trine encourages creative thinking, intuitive insights and forgiveness. And then Sunday’s Mercury/Pluto link fosters deep thinking and powerful communication. Your quote is from birthday great, Sinead O’Connor: “Forgiveness is the most important thing”.

LIBRA (Sep 23 - Oct 22)

Communication, conversation, education, social media and local travel are all highlighted this week. But avoid being rash with cash and credit (especially midweek) via an expensive online purchase or a spontaneous spending spree at the local shops. Impulse buys now could lead to big regrets later. And is it time to express your humanitarian side? Think of ways you can contribute your numerous Libran talents to a worthy cause within your local community.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 - Nov 21)

The Sun, Mercury, Venus and Mars are all transiting through your money, values and self-worth zones. So financial matters and self-esteem issues are on your mind, as you find ways to consolidate your finances and boost your inner confidence. Do your best to show extra kindness and compassion towards a family member or close friend who’s going through a tough time. The things they are dealing with are more serious and complex than you previously thought.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 - Dec 21)

This week the Sun, Mercury, Venus and Mars are in your sign, Mercury and Pluto fire up your imagination, plus Uranus pushes you to express your authentic self every day. So it’s time to network within your peer group and extended social circle, as you get your creative ideas out into the world. Be inspired by Sagittarian singersongwriter-poet Jim Morrison (who was born on December 8, 1943): “The most important kind of freedom is to be what you really are.”

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 - Jan 19)

The week starts well, as Mercury makes a terrific aspect with taskmaster Saturn (your ruling planet), which encourages and boosts your conscientious, perfectionist side. But don’t overdo it! Leave room for mistakes, stumbles and occasional sloppiness. No one can get things 100% right all the time. Wisdom for the week comes from birthday great, actress Dame Judi Dench: “I think you should take your job seriously, but not yourself – that is the best combination.”

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 - Feb 18)

Work and home life look rather chaotic, as Mercury and Uranus (your ruling planet) stir up your career and domestic zones. Expect the week to be messy and disorganised (and you might get distracted and make some frustrating mistakes) but try to keep things in perspective. Don’t let outer circumstances upset your inner equilibrium. Your motto is from Taylor Swift (who turns 36 on Saturday): “Happiness and confidence are the prettiest things you can wear.”

PISCES (Feb 19 - Mar 20)

You’re full of big ideas and ambitious aspirations but stop procrastinating, Pisces! The challenge is to follow through on plans and commitments. If you make a promise – keep it. If you set a goal – work hard to achieve it. It doesn’t matter how long it takes. With patience and persistence, you can make your dreams come true. But take off your rose-coloured glasses and have your wits about you (especially on Sunday). Don’t fall for a smooth talker bearing fake news.

Madeline Moore

Northern Rivers Artist Holly English Honoured in National “Behind the Lines” Exhibition

Jef Gibbs

Northern Rivers artist and satirist Holly English has earned national recognition, with her work selected for the prestigious “Behind the Lines: The Year’s Best Political Cartoons” exhibition, now on display at the Museum of Australian Democracy in Canberra. The annual showcase— celebrating its 30th year and widely regarded as a cultural institution— highlights the sharpest and most compelling

political cartoons from across Australia. The exhibition doubles as a visual chronicle of the nation’s political landscape and is accompanied by a printed anthology. It is also accessible online and will travel nationally in 2026.

English’s selected cartoon was inspired by an encounter at a Byron Bay polling booth during the 2025 Federal Election. She said the moment captured both misinformation and misunderstanding around preferential voting.

“I’m not sure whether the Labor volunteer handing out the ‘how-to-vote’ card didn’t understand the preferencing system or was told to spread disinformation. Perhaps it was both,” she said. “Little did she know that I’ve been involved in politics for over 30 years.”

Her piece also refects on the broader contradictions she observed among some voters.

“I was dismayed that Labor voters who strongly supported a ceasefre and said they were upset about

the situation in Gaza were nonetheless complacent about Australia supplying weapons parts used in Israel’s actions against Palestinians. They couldn’t seem to recognise the contradiction.”

English said being included in Behind the Lines was an honour and a joy.

“The opening event was wonderful. Spending time with fellow cartoonists is always humorous, even though our work often confronts serious and uncomfortable topics.”

Byron Theatre honoured at Uniquely Byron

Jef Gibbs

Byron Theatre has been recognised as a leader in the region’s creative life, taking out the Creative Champions Excellence in Arts and Creativity category at the Uniquely Byron Business Awards 2025.

Run by the Byron Bay Chamber of Commerce, the annual awards celebrate innovation, creativity and community impact across the Shire. The judges acknowledged Byron Theatre for its year-round program of theatre, live music, dance, flm, festivals and talks, and its strong support for both emerging and established artists from across the Northern Rivers.

Operated by the Byron Community Centre as a notfor-proft social enterprise, the theatre reinvests its

Business Awards

revenue back into cultural projects and community services, extending its impact beyond the stage and into the wider community.

Marketing Manager Kate Love said the award refects the dedication behind every performance, screening and community-led event hosted

at the venue. She said the team’s goal is to provide a space where artists can shine and audiences can share meaningful, inspiring experiences.

Creative Producer Bianca Siranni, who accepted the award on behalf of the team at the gala event at

Tokyo Doll on Wednesday 26 November, described the honour as a powerful recognition of the theatre’s commitment to quality arts and culture. She said she was proud of the team and grateful to the Chamber for highlighting the importance of creative organisations in the Byron region.

Byron Theatre also champions original local work through Byron Theatre Company, developing new productions and bringing Northern Rivers stories to the stage. The fexible 300-squaremetre venue, which seats up to 266 patrons, allows the theatre to host a broad mix of productions that enrich cultural life across the Shire. For information on upcoming performances and events, visit the Byron Theatre website at byroncentre.com.au.

Northern Rivers artist and satirist Holly English

People, Not Technology, Identified as Major Cause of Australia’s Productivity Crisis

Jef Gibbs

New research has revealed that Australia’s productivity problem is being driven primarily by people-related pressures rather than a lack of technology — with labour shortages, low engagement and rising business costs creating widespread roadblocks across the country.

The fndings come as national productivity growth hits a two-decade low. According to the Productivity Commission and Treasury, Australia recorded an annual labour productivity growth rate of just 0.8% in 2023–24, down from 1.8% in 2003–04, placing longterm pressure on wages, living standards, infation and economic stability.

The latest insights stem from a survey of 226 business owners and decision-makers conducted by Small Business Loans Australia (SBLA). This independent, nationally representative study shows the productivity slowdown is being felt sharply at ground level, with many businesses lacking the staf, engagement and fnancial

resources needed to improve performance.

Staf Shortages and Engagement Issues Lead the Decline

The research found that:

• 31% of businesses cannot fnd skilled staf

• 24% report low staf engagement

• 20% are facing supply and stock delays

• 20% have experienced a drop in customer demand

These pressures create a cycle that restricts productivity and stalls growth. With fewer skilled workers and subdued demand, one in fve businesses report they cannot aford the technology or equipment that would normally help them lift efciency.

SBLA founder Alon Rajic said the results highlight just how central people are to workplace

productivity.

“Our research shows that people are key to Australia’s productivity problem. They’re working harder with fewer resources, while businesses struggle to source the people, stock and technology to grow,” Mr Rajic said.

Businesses Call for Afordable Tech, Less Red Tape, and Stronger Incentives

When asked what would most help improve productivity, businesses nominated practical, targeted solutions:

• 38% want more afordable access to productivity-enhancing technology

• 36% want reduced red tape and stronger incentives

• 29% believe training in AI and digital tools would help

• 24% want better access to fnance or a larger pool of skilled workers

Rajic said the message from small business is clear.

“Businesses will do their part to lift productivity, but they need industry and government to make it easier, not harder,” he said.

“Running a business is becoming increasingly challenging, and the right regulatory settings, skilled staf and afordable technology are essential if Australian businesses are to remain competitive.”

The full report, including detailed breakdowns by state, territory and business size, is available at:

https://smallbusine ssloansaustralia.com/ what-small-businessessay-is-holding-themback/

Advice Disclaimer

This article provides general information only and does not constitute fnancial advice. Readers should consider their personal and business circumstances and seek independent legal, fnancial, taxation or professional advice before acting on any information.

RBA Rate-Hike Risk Grows

as Aussie Dollar Strengthens

Jef Gibbs

The possibility of an imminent interest-rate rise is back in sharp focus after new national data revealed a stronger-than-expected lift in household spending during October, pushing the Australian dollar above US 66 cents and fuelling market speculation about the Reserve Bank’s next move.

Economists say the

latest spending fgures show households are still proving surprisingly resilient, even under sustained cost-of-living pressures. The rise in consumption has heightened concerns that lingering demand could slow the fght against infation, making a rate hike more likely in the coming months.

The data, released this week and closely watched

by fnancial markets, shows consumer activity strengthening at a time when the RBA has warned that persistent infationary pressures may require further tightening. Analysts say the trend raises fresh questions ahead of the central bank’s fnal decisions for the year.

Former federal treasurer Peter Costello also weighed in on another long-term economic

challenge, arguing that Australia’s declining birth rate is becoming a serious structural threat. He said governments must act to support population growth or face increasing pressure on the national economy, workforce numbers, and future budgets.

Meanwhile, the stronger Australian dollar boosted sentiment across fnancial markets, although investors remain wary amid global

uncertainty. The currency’s climb was seen as a vote of confdence in Australia’s economic outlook, despite concerns about how households will cope with any future rate rises.

For families and businesses across the Northern Rivers, the developments come as many continue to juggle higher borrowing costs, rising rents and elevated prices for essentials. Local

fnancial advisers say any rate hike in early 2026 would place additional pressure on mortgages already reshaped by the past two years of tightening.

With markets now watching the RBA closely, Australia heads into summer awaiting what could be one of the most consequential monetary policy decisions of the post-pandemic era.

Gen Z Suicide Alarming Figures Spark Call for Federal Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing

Jef Gibbs

Australians for Mental Health is calling for the creation of a dedicated Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing inside the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet, following new research showing young Australians are experiencing suicidal distress at signifcantly higher levels than older generations.

A landmark University of Melbourne study of more than 14,000 Australians has revealed that people aged 16 to 25 are more likely to report suicidal thoughts, self-harm and suicide attempts — with these behaviours emerging earlier in life than previously recorded.

Australians for Mental Health Executive Director Chris Gambian said the fndings confrm that years of well-intentioned eforts to improve youth mental health are failing to stem the rising tide.

“After a decade of noble eforts to reduce distress

among our young people, the problem is getting worse. It is time for a radical overhaul of how we tackle the mental health crisis,” he said.

“Mental health is not just about clinical diagnosis and treatment. Keeping

Australians mentally well means addressing the social and economic drivers outside the health system — including employment, housing, education and community connection.”

Mr Gambian said a dedicated federal minister

is essential to co-ordinate whole-of-government action.

“By appointing a Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing at the centre of government, the Albanese Government can set itself apart as the

frst in Australia’s history to recognise that national prosperity is directly linked to the wellbeing of its people,” he said.

Last month, Australians for Mental Health released its own study showing 59% of people believe

Australia is experiencing a mental health crisis requiring urgent action, while 76% believe it can be fxed with the right leadership and investment.

Mr Gambian said mental health outcomes depend on multiple factors — from family dynamics and fnancial security to relationships, community belonging and access to services.

“With the right leadership, we can stop these concerning trends in their tracks. The lives of our young people are literally at stake,” he said.

The organisation continues to push for bold federal reform, including:

• Passing a Wellbeing Act to embed mental health considerations in all government policy

• Appointing a Minister for Mental Health & Wellbeing within the Prime Minister’s Department

• Establishing an independent Mental Health & Wellbeing Commissioner to hold government accountable

New Figures Reveal 59 People a Day Turned Away From Homelessness Services in NSW

Homelessness services across New South Wales are being overwhelmed by rising demand, with new national data revealing that an average of 59 people every day are turned away because services are full or unable to provide adequate support.

The sobering fgures, released by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), show that NSW homelessness services assisted 67,824 people in the 2024–25 fnancial year. Despite this enormous efort, frontline teams are unable to keep pace with increasingly urgent need across the state.

The Capital Region recorded the highest number of clients, followed by Sydney City and Inner South, and New England and North West, highlighting that homelessness is rising in both metropolitan and regional areas.

For Homelessness NSW CEO Dominique Rowe, the statistics paint a deeply troubling picture of an already-strained system pushed beyond capacity.

“Across the state people are being turned away from help in their most desperate time of need. This is a truly heartbreaking and devastating situation,” Ms Rowe said.

“Frontline staf are working extremely hard

to help as many people as possible, but the demand is relentless.

“The housing crisis is now so dire that people who have never needed help before — including people with full-time jobs — are seeking support.”

The report shows 16% of people seeking homelessness assistance were employed, up signifcantly from 13% in 2018–19, underscoring how cost-of-living pressures and rental unafordability are increasingly pushing working people into crisis.

Turnaways Rising as Housing Shortage Deepens

The number of people turned away climbed

from 57 per day last year to 59, marking the highest level recorded in recent years. Of these:

• 23 people per day (38%) were turned away solely because no accommodation was available.

• This was by far the most common reason people could not be assisted.

• More than 54% of those who presented for help were already homeless at frst contact — higher than last year’s rate of 53% and well above the national average of 48.7%.

Homelessness NSW says the fgures confrm what frontline workers have been reporting for months: that the state’s housing shortage has reached an unsustainable point.

“This is a disaster unfolding before our eyes and requires urgent action,” Ms Rowe said.

“The government must boost funding for overwhelmed homelessness services so more people aren’t forced to sleep on the streets.”

Advocates argue that the demand is being driven by a combination of severe rental stress, lack of afordable housing stock, cost-of-living pressures and wage stagnation. As vacancy rates remain at historic lows — particularly in regional NSW — services are grappling with a rising infux of families, older women, young people and migrants seeking emergency

shelter. Regional Breakdown: Highest Demand Areas

Clients assisted in 2024–25:

• Capital Region: 3,667

• Sydney – City and Inner South: 3,603

• New England and North West: 3,444

• Sydney – Outer West and Blue Mountains: 3,391

• Far West and Orana: 3,316

The spread of these fgures demonstrates that homelessness is no longer concentrated in major cities; it is accelerating in regional communities where rental competition has soared and housing supply has fallen.

Jef Gibbs

BOWEN THERAPY

Australian Housing Market Surges Toward $12 Trillion Value

Jef Gibbs

Australia’s housing market is closing in on an extraordinary milestone, with new national data revealing the total value of residential dwellings has climbed to $11.9 trillion — one of the highest levels ever recorded.

Figures released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) show that the national housing market added more than $317 billion in value over the September quarter. The uplift refects strong price growth across all states and territories, paired with steady additions to housing

supply.

Australia now has around 11.41 million homes, with more than 53,000 new dwellings added in just three months. Despite this increase, demand continues to outpace supply, placing upward pressure on prices.

ABS head of fnance and statistics Mish Tan said home values rose across every capital city and region, contributing to a signifcant rise in the national mean dwelling price. The average Australian home is now worth $1.045 million, up more than $23,000 over the quarter.

Western Australia led the country with the strongest quarterly price growth — a 4.5% rise, or an average increase of around $40,800 per home. Queensland followed closely with a 3.5% rise, while the Northern Territory recorded a 5.3% surge, refecting accelerating activity in northern markets.

Economic Forces Driving the Boom

While the housing market has long been central to Australia’s economic landscape, the latest rise places its total value at nearly four times that of

the national share market. Economists say the latest surge refects the combined impact of favourable lending conditions, increased borrowing power following interest rate adjustments, strong population growth and a resurgence of investor activity.

Recent analysis has shown home prices lifting steadily throughout the year, with national values increasing by almost 9% over the past 12 months. Buyer confdence has been buoyed by improving economic sentiment and a belief that the housing market remains a resilient, long-term investment. Boosts to governmentassisted pathways for home buyers — including the expanded Home Guarantee Scheme and incoming shared-equity programs — have also contributed to demand, particularly among frsthome buyers who may otherwise have remained sidelined.

Supply Struggles to Keep Pace

Despite growth in new construction, the rate of housing delivery remains well behind population pressures. Migration remains near record levels and vacancy rates across

major cities are at historic lows.

Property analysts warn that Australia’s persistent undersupply is now a defning force in shaping the market. As new dwellings take years to deliver, the immediate pressure falls on existing stock — pushing prices higher and intensifying competition across both rental and buying markets.

Many industry observers say the mismatch between supply and demand is likely to continue for several years, unless construction output increases substantially.

Afordability Continues to Worsen

While soaring home values refect economic strength, they also highlight growing afordability challenges.

Housing afordability has deteriorated sharply over the past decade, with the rise in prices far outpacing wage growth.

For many households — particularly young families and singleincome buyers — entering the market remains increasingly difcult, even as loan conditions improve.

Rising rents, shrinking rental vacancies and increased living costs have added further strain to budgets.

Economists warn that without signifcant improvements to housing supply, afordability issues will persist and may worsen, particularly in high-demand regional and coastal areas.

What Comes Next?

Market activity is expected to remain strong through summer, with analysts forecasting further modest price increases driven by low supply, strong demand and improved borrowing conditions.

However, there is an expectation that growth may ease later in 2026, especially if interest rates stabilise and the pace of buyer activity moderates. Afordability constraints are also likely to impose natural limits on how far prices can climb without signifcant wage growth or policy intervention. Nevertheless, the latest ABS fgures reinforce the scale and economic weight of Australia’s housing sector — a market that continues to shape household wealth, national investment and future prosperity.

Growing Ferns in the Northern Rivers

Jef Gibbs

Ferns are one of the most rewarding plants to grow in the Northern Rivers, thanks to the region’s warm climate, generous rainfall and naturally rich soils. Northern Rivers ferns thrive in the same lush, shaded conditions found across our subtropical gullies, rainforest pockets and creek lines. With the right care, local gardeners can successfully grow everything from hardy ground ferns to impressive hanging-basket varieties that spill beautifully over pots and verandahs.

Ideal Soils for Fern Success

The Northern Rivers is fortunate to have soils perfectly suited to fern cultivation. Deep, freedraining loam, enriched with leaf litter or compost, ofers the best foundation. Basalt-derived soils found around Lismore, Alstonville and the plateau areas are naturally fertile and hold moisture without becoming waterlogged. In coastal areas, such as

Ballina, Lennox Head and Yamba, improving sandy soils with mushroom compost or coconut fbre creates the soft, humusrich texture ferns love. Adding organic mulch mimics the forest foor and helps retain moisture, especially during dry spells. Because ferns prefer slightly acidic conditions, avoid heavy use of lime or alkaline additives.

Best Growing Conditions

Across the Northern Rivers, humidity is a major advantage. Ferns prefer dappled light, protected

from harsh midday sun.

Under a canopy of palms, lilly pillies or shade cloth, temperatures stay mild and moisture remains in the air—perfect for steady growth. Regular watering is helpful, but soil should remain lightly moist, not soggy. In prolonged heatwaves, a light misting keeps fronds from crisping. Good airfow is essential, especially in coastal zones where sea breezes can dry foliage. Positioning ferns in sheltered corners, under verandahs, or in shaded courtyards helps maintain stable humidity.

Ferns to Plant Locally

Popular ground ferns include Maidenhair, Bird’s Nest, Blechnum, and Tree Ferns like Dicksonia and Cyathea, all well-suited to our subtropical climate. The hardy Boston Fern remains a favourite for its resilience, while Elkhorn and Staghorn ferns thrive when mounted on boards or tree trunks. For a bold garden display, the Silver Lady Fern grows beautifully

in sheltered garden beds. Meanwhile, coastal gardeners often prefer Holly Fern and Sword Fern, which tolerate breezes better than more delicate species.

Ground vs Hanging Basket Ferns

Ground-planted ferns help create cool, shaded microclimates and work well beneath established trees. They also act as living mulch, reducing evaporation and suppressing weeds. Hanging baskets are ideal for verandahs and patios across the region. Maidenhair, Boston, and Native Ribbon Ferns cascade attractively, and thrive in cocofbre baskets flled with moisture-retentive mix. Regular feeding with diluted seaweed tonic keeps fronds lush yearround.

With the Northern Rivers’ natural advantages, ferns are a low-maintenance, high-reward choice for gardeners seeking beauty, greenery and texture in every corner of the yard.

Bird’s Nest

Blechnum

Staghorn

Tree Ferns

WHATS ON THE MENU TONIGHT?

If you’ve ever stared into the fridge and thought, “I wish dinner looked like it survived a Bunnings carpark battle between a prawn and a cow,” then congratulations—this Surf ’n’ Turf Rissole Traybake is your culinary soulmate. It’s the kind of meal that makes your guests say, “Ooh fancy,” while you quietly know it required approximately the same level of skill as turning on the oven and not burning your eyebrows of. This traybake brings together juicy beef rissoles and garlicky prawns in one glorious one-pan wonder. It’s meat meets seafood; a romantic comedy waiting to happen—minus the awkward kissing scene and emotional baggage.

Ingredients (metric)

Rissoles:

• 500g beef mince

• 40g (1/2 cup) panko breadcrumbs

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 egg

• 1 small brown onion, fnely chopped

• 1 garlic clove, crushed

• Salt & pepper

Traybake:

• 500g baby potatoes, halved

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 200g green beans, trimmed

• 200g cherry tomatoes

• 250g large raw prawns, peeled & deveined

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• 1 lemon, cut into wedges

• 1 tbsp butter

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

Method

• Preheat oven to 200°C. Line a large tray with baking paper, because scrubbing trays is for people who enjoy sufering.

Surf and turf rissole traybake

mustard, egg, onion and garlic. Season well and shape into 8 rissoles

• Toss the potatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt and pepper. Spread on tray and bake for 20 minutes

• Add the beans and tomatoes. Nestle the rissoles among the veg like they’re sunbaking. Bake for 15 minutes

• Meanwhile, toss prawns with garlic, paprika, remaining olive oil and a pinch of salt.

•Add prawns to tray, scatter butter over everything, and return to oven for 8–10 minutes or until prawns are pink and rissoles cooked through.

•Squeeze lemon wedges over the top like a dramatic cookingshow fnale. Serve immediately.

Leftovers

• Combine the beef mince, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce,

IWarm leftovers in a pan and stuf into a crusty roll with mayo for the most chaotic but delicious

Tips for Success

•Don’t overwork the mince unless you want rissoles with the texture of a hockey puck.

•Use jumbo prawns if you’re feeling rich or want to impress the in-laws.

•A drizzle of chilli oil at the end turns this from “nice dinner” to “why do we ever go out?”

f Christmas had a personality, it would be this trife: outrageously extra, a little chaotic, and guaranteed to steal the spotlight from every other dessert on the table. This beauty layers pavlova, custard, berries and cream like it’s auditioning for a festive reboot of MasterChef. It’s tall, dramatic, and absolutely not here to play modest. Perfect for when the relatives arrive and you need something impressive enough to distract them from asking why you’re still single or why Uncle Bazza is asleep on the patio again.

Ingredients (metric)

• 500g fresh strawberries, halved

• 250g raspberries

• 250g blueberries

• 1 tbsp icing sugar

• 600ml thickened cream

• 2 tbsp caster sugar

• 300ml vanilla custard

• 1pavlova base (approx. 500g), broken into chunks

• 150g mini meringues

• Fresh mint, to garnish

Method

• In a bowl, toss strawberries with icing sugar. Add remaining berries.

• Whip the cream with caster sugar until soft peaks form—stop before it turns into butter (unless you enjoy chaos).

• Begin layering in a large trife bowl: pavlova chunks, custard, berries, whipped cream.

• Repeat layers until you reach the top. Crown with mini meringues and extra berries.

• Chill for at least 1 hour before serving, giving the favours time to mingle like Christmas lunch gossip. Leftovers

Spoon into a bowl the next morning and pretend it’s a respectable breakfast. Your secret is safe with me.

Tips for Success

• Assemble just before serving to keep the crunchy bits crunchy.

• Use extra berries for colour pop—this dessert loves attention.

• A drizzle of berry coulis makes it even more dramatic.

surf-n-turf sandwich ever created.

Nissan Confirms Frontier Pro PHEV Ute for Australia

Jef Gibbs

Nissan is preparing to enter Australia’s fast-growing electrifed ute segment with the confrmation that the Frontier Pro PHEV is being developed for a potential local launch as early as 2027. The plug-in hybrid dual-cab was recently shown to Nissan dealers in Adelaide, signalling that the brand is positioning the model as a major step forward in electrifed commercial vehicles.

The Frontier Pro PHEV made its international debut earlier this year and has been designed as a powerful, low-emissions alternative to traditional diesel utes. Nissan is expected to pair the new electrifed model alongside the next-generation Navara, giving buyers the choice between diesel capability and hybrid efciency.

High-Power Hybrid Drivetrain

Under the bonnet, the

Frontier Pro PHEV features a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine working in tandem with an electric motor and large battery pack. Together, they deliver an impressive up to 300 kW of combined power and 800 Nm of torque, placing the electrifed ute well above most diesel rivals in outright performance.

The electric side of the drivetrain ofers strong everyday usability, with up to 135 km of electriconly range on the Chinese testing cycle. This makes the Frontier Pro suitable for commuting, short urban trips, and quiet job-site access without using a drop of petrol.

Genuine Ute Capability

Despite its hybrid focus, the Frontier Pro retains serious dual-cab capability. Nissan has confrmed a braked towing capacity of 3,500 kg, 700 mm wading depth, and a full all-wheel drive system with an electromechanical locking rear diferential. This places

it in line with mainstream diesel utes in terms of work and of-road performance.

A multi-mode drive system allows the driver to choose between Hybrid, EV-only, Performance, and Snow settings, ensuring the ute can adapt to road conditions, terrain, and driving style.

Modern

Interior and High-Level Features

Inside, the Frontier Pro PHEV is equipped with features more often seen in high-spec SUVs. Headline equipment includes a 14.6-inch infotainment display, 10-inch digital instrument cluster, heated and ventilated seats, a panoramic roof, and optional massage seating.

Underneath, Nissan has moved away from traditional leaf springs and adopted a fve-link coilspring rear suspension to improve ride comfort and stability, especially during light-duty or family use.

Storage solutions, cabin practicality and improved ergonomics also signal Nissan’s intention to widen the ute’s appeal beyond the worksite.

Why This Model Maters

For Nissan, the Frontier Pro PHEV is a strategic response to evolving emissions rules and consumer demands.

Australia’s incoming efciency standards mean car brands must reduce the average CO₂ output of their feets. Introducing a capable plug-in hybrid ute allows Nissan to balance the emissions footprint of diesel models while ofering buyers a more fuel-efcient alternative.

The model will compete directly with a growing list of electrifed utes arriving in Australia, including hybrid and PHEV oferings from BYD, GWM, and Ford. With its strong power output and long EV range, the Frontier Pro shapes as one of the segment’s most advanced entries.

What Australia Still Doesn't Know

There are still key details yet to be confrmed for Australian buyers:

• Right-hand-drive production: Nissan is developing it, but timelines are not fnal.

• Local pricing: Overseas pricing suggests strong value, but Australian

costs may difer due to taxation, compliance and shipping.

• Final specifcations: Equipment levels could change for the Australian market.

• Real-world range and payload: Final fgures will depend on Australian tuning and certifcation.

Verdict:

A Strong Contender If the Price Is Right

The Nissan Frontier Pro PHEV appears to combine serious ute capability with genuine electric-driving practicality. For tradies, families and regional drivers wanting an electrifed option without the limitations of full EVs, the Frontier Pro could be a compelling addition to the market.

If Nissan delivers competitive pricing and strong local support, the Frontier Pro PHEV has the potential to become one of Australia’s most desirable next-generation utes.

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

Bullocks

• 33 head , ranging 370.2c–452.2c/kg , averaging 389c/kg

• Returns from $1,880 to $3,696

• Total value: $72,006.32

The Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange (NRLX) yarded 1,605 head for the Prime Cattle sale on Wednesday, 3 December 2025. The market presented a mixed but generally strong trend, with solid competition across categories and notable strength in cows, bulls, and steers.

Cows remained the largest portion of the yarding with 590 head , followed by 475 steers , 426 heifers , and 57 bulls . Quality was mixed but several standout lines attracted strong bidding. Market Highlights

Cows & Calves

• 9 head , selling from $1,880 to $2,225 , averaging $2,071.67

• Total value: $18,645

Bobby Calves

• 1 head , selling at 318.2c/kg

• Worth $270.47

Weekly Market Report – Week

Ending 5 December 2025

Livestock markets across Warwick and District strengthened this week, with all major categories fnishing frm to dearer as the region moves into the fnal trading weeks of 2025 and the traditional holiday demand period. Consistent supply and strong processor interest underpinned a solid sale across cattle, sheep and lambs, pork and poultry.

Cattle numbers eased slightly, with 1,559 head penned , while the sheep and lamb yarding surged to 2,775 head, signifcantly higher than recent weeks. Pork numbers rose to 200 head , and poultry remained steady.

Processors were active across all lines as they worked to secure stock ahead of expected holiday shortages, contributing to strong prices throughout the yards.

Cattle Market – Strong End-of-Year Demand

The cattle sale again delivered frm to stronger results, bolstered by improved

Bulls

• 57 head , 258.2c–406.2c/kg , averaging 362.9c/kg

• Top value: $3,940

• Total value: $122,067.99

Cows

• Largest yarding: 590 head

• Strong performance: 140c–411.2c/kg , averaging 363.7c/kg

• Returns between $539 and $2,880

• Total value: $1,017,815.83

Heifers

• 426 head , 226.2c–488.2c/kg , averaging 383.1c/kg

• Worth $260 to $2,457

• Total value: $441,290.65

Steers

475 head , 100c–584.2c/kg , averaging 461.9c/kg

• Strong returns from $125 to $2,338

• Total value: $536,157.94

demand and consistent quality.

• Bulls averaged 399.6c/kg , topping at 456.2c/kg , returning between $2,317 and $4,127

• Cows averaged 365.5c/kg , reaching 410c/kg , for returns between $1,784 and $3,207

• Feeder heifers averaged 422.7c/kg , topping at 464.2c/kg (or $1,416 to $2, 004 ).

• Feeder steers averaged 494.1c/kg, topping at a high 570.2c/kg , returning $1,829 to $2,523

• Heifers averaged 427.8c/kg , peaking at 485c/kg , making $1,899 to $3,116

• Manufacturing steers averaged 387.2c/kg to return $1,974/head

• Heavy steers averaged 451.5c/kg, topping at 477.2c/kg , returning between $2,586 and $3,898

• Vealer heifers averaged 442.3c/kg , topping at 468.2c/kg , selling from $980 to $1,263

• Vealer steers averaged 514.5c/kg , with a top of 582.2c/kg , returning $996 to $1,495

• Yearling heifers averaged 441.8c/kg , topping at 500.2c/kg , selling from $1,304 to $2,258

• Yearling steers averaged 495.4c/kg

steers for $1,880 (Oppermann Family, Kerry)

2yearold Brangus × steers for $1,870 (DRA Joint Venture, Moogerah)

Vealers

• 13 head , 360.2c–406.2c/kg , averaging 388.6c/kg

• Worth $594–$630

• Total value: $7,986.15

Vealer Bulls

• 10 head , 248.2c–388.2c/kg , averaging 313.9c/kg

• Worth $442–$1,266

• Total value: $6,639.98

Total Sale Summary

• 1,605 head

• Average price: 388.4c/kg

• Top price: 584.2c/kg

• Total yard value: $2,204,235.33

The sale refected strong end-of-year demand, with buyers chasing weight and quality. Cows, steers and bulls showed particularly frm competition as processors and feeders positioned for holiday supply.

Source: NRLX Prime Cattle

Statistics – 3 December 2025

NRLX Special Store Sale Records

Strong Prices Across Light Yardings

Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange

, topping at 578.2c/kg , making $1,279 to $2,006

Across the yarding, the 1,559 head averaged $1,677/head , refecting continued confdence in the end-of-year market.

Sheep & Lambs – Big Yarding and Strong Buyer Support

The sheep and lamb sale lifted sharply, with 2,775 head presented for the thirdlast sale of the year. Vendors ofered an excellent cross-section of new season lambs, older processors, feed-on lines and replacement females.

Local buyers, export operators and restockers all competed strongly, pushing the market fully frm to slightly dearer. Lamb categories performed strongly:

• Lambs: topped at $328 , averaging

$206.20 (up $3/head )

• Hoggets: topped at $248 , averaging $195.07 (down $1 )

• Ram lambs: topped at $285 , averaging $179.42 (up $13 )

• Ewes: topped at $220 , averaging

$147.39 (up $4 )

• Wethers: topped at $235 , averaging

$176.03 (down $1 )

• Rams: topped at $178 , averaging

What this suggests about market conditions

– 3 December 2025

A small but competitive yarding highlighted the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange (NRLX) Special Store Sale on Wednesday, 3 December 2025, with 14 head ofered and strong buyer demand fowing through both heifer and steer pens.

Despite the reduced numbers, the sale produced frm to dearer results, refecting continued interest in quality store cattle as producers position themselves ahead of summer conditions. Steers were the standout of the day, with multiple pens exceeding expectations and achieving returns above $3,000.

Market Overview

Heifers

Only four heifers were presented, but competition remained active.

• Prices ranged from $1,050 to $1,525 ,

• Averaging $1,337.50 ,

• Total value: $5,350. The limited ofering ensured

$152.65 (up $15 ) Overall, the yarding averaged $190.65/ head , a gain of $6/head week on week. Notable Sheep & Lamb Sales

• Roly Tonscheck sold Charollais wether lambs 60kg to Thomas Foods for $328 , and 51kg to Eversons for $260

• Linview Ag sold White Sufolk lambs 48.8kg to Jock Young Meats for $262 , and 30kg restocker lambs for $146

• George Moore sold Merino wethers to Thomas Foods for $190 , Eversons for $145 , McIntyre Meats for $90 , and crossbred ewes to McIntyre Meats for $50

• Fiona Hilliar sold Xbred lambs in the wool, 47kg and 40kg, to GR Prime for $230 and $214

• John & Leah Paech sold 40kg Dorper sucker lambs to GR Prime for $230, Dorper ewes to Thomas Foods for $160, and ewe-and-lamb units to restockers for $255

• Ellen Cooper sold 57kg Dorper lambs to Eversons for $285

• Staci Turner sold Dorper ewes to Eversons for $220 , and rams to Whites Trading for $190

• Anthony Baines sold Dorper sucker

well,” indicating robust demand across the board — not just for steers.

strong attention from restockers seeking lighter types suitable for backgrounding.

Steers

Steers dominated the yarding with 10 head , achieving excellent money.

• Low: $1,000

• Average: $1,677.50

• Top: an impressive $3,100 ,

• Total value: $16,775.

The top-priced steer pen refected quality breeding and weight, drawing spirited bidding from feeders and backgrounding operators.

Sale Summary

• Total yarding: 14 head

• Price range: $1,000–$3,100

• Sale average: $1,580.36

• Gross sale value: $22,125

Although small, the sale demonstrated solid confdence in the region’s store market, with producers continuing to secure future feeders despite rising seasonal pressures.

Source: NRLX Special Store Sale Statistics – 3 December 2025

lambs 30kg to restockers for $146

• Woodleigh Keetah P/S sold Dorpercross lambs 40kg to McIntyre Meats for $185 , ram lambs 50kg to Eversons for $164 , and 40kg hoggets to McIntyre Meats for $150

Warwick Ryan sold Dorper-cross hoggets 38kg to restockers for $132 , and ewes to McIntyre Meats for $140

• Warren & Wendy Schelbach sold Dorper lambs 44.2kg to GR Prime for $221

Pork & Poultry

Pork numbers lifted with Christmas demand building:

• Sows: $93–$420

• Gilts: $85–$210

• Porkers: $200–$282

• Baconers: to $290

• Stores: $90–$276

Poultry met strong local demand:

• Hen & chicks to $50

• Chicks to $32.50

• Ducklings to $22.50

• Pullets to $30

• Silky hens to $30

• Roosters to $25

• Hens to $30

• Goslings to $20

• Ducks, Peacocks & Drakes to $40

are lower, demand is steady — so raising to a better weight/age might pay of.

The topprice steer at the latest sale reached $2,840: 2½yearold Droughtmaster × steers sold by David & Anne Edgeworth, Bunjurgen. Other strong steer sale results included:

2yearold Droughtmaster × steers for $2,300 (Janet Barth, Beaudesert)

20monthold Charbray steers for $2,100 (Ben Harmer, Kingsholme)

18monthold Santa Gertrudis (“Santa”)

Younger steers/weaner steers also sold steadily, in the $1,460–$1,610 range for many, depending on breed and age. Heifers and cows (with or without calves) also saw good demand: e.g. heifers ~12–15 months sold in the $1,040–$1,530 range, cows and calves fetched up to ~$2,400.

The agents managing the sale were Bartholomew & Co. Bartholomew+1

The topend price ($2,840) — signifcantly above many other steers — suggests a particularly strong demand for heavier, older steers. Buyers likely valuing weight, breed, and readiness for backgrounding or fnishing.

The wide spread in steer prices (from ~$1,500 for weaners up to ~$2,840 for heavier) underscores the importance of age, breed, and condition in infuencing value.

Heifers and cows also sold “extremely

Overall, the market seems competitive, with restockers and buyers keen on quality lines — which may refect favourable external conditions (feed, demand downstream, seasonal timing).

What this means for sellers or buyers

If you’re selling heavy steers or wellgrown cattle, now may be a good time: heavier, older animals seem to attract strong prices.

For weaner producers, while prices

Heifer and cow sellers also have opportunity: cows (especially with calves) and replacementtype females still draw solid interest.

Buyers: investing in wellbred, heavier steers or quality replacement females may ofer good value given the competition and price strength.

Next sale

The next Beaudesert Store Sale is scheduled for Saturday 10 January 2026, starting at 9:30 am.

Record Year Ahead as Australian Agriculture Set to Hit $106.4 Billion

By Ian Rogers

Australia’s agriculture, fsheries and forestry sectors are heading toward a landmark year, with national production forecast to reach a record $106.4 billion in 2025–26, according to new fgures released in ABARES’ December quarter reports.

ABARES Executive

Director Dr Jared Greenville said agriculture alone is projected to account for $99.5 billion, marking the highest farm production value ever recorded.

“These record production values are being driven by strong livestock markets and steady crop performance nationwide,” Dr Greenville said.

“Livestock prices continue to strengthen, supported by frm global demand and renewed restocker confdence. This has lifted the value of cattle, sheep and livestock products, even as turnof moderates.”

Export performance is also set to reach new heights. Combined agriculture, fsheries and forestry exports are forecast to rise to $83.9

NSW Parliament Celebrates 80 Years of ABC’s Country Hour

Ian Rogers

The NSW Legislative Council has formally recognised the 80th anniversary of ABC’s Country Hour, Australia’s longest-running radio program and a staple of rural life since 1945. The milestone was acknowledged following a motion moved by Aileen MacDonald MLC, who refected on the program’s enduring place in regional communities.

Ms MacDonald said the Country Hour has been part of her daily routine since

she moved to rural NSW more than 36 years ago.

“As I raised a family, ran a business, and became part of the local community, the program kept me informed and connected with what was happening across rural NSW,” she said.

Established in the fnal months of the Second World War, the program was created to support agricultural productivity through educational broadcasting. Today, it continues to air every weekday from midday to 1pm across ABC Local Radio in regional Australia.

Ms MacDonald said the Country Hour remains an essential source of information and storytelling for rural Australians.

“Whether it’s covering seasonal conditions, sharing producers’ stories, or reporting on the challenges and achievements of life in the bush, the Country Hour remains essential listening,” she said.

She added that the NSW Parliament’s recognition refects the deep respect held statewide for the ABC Rural Department and its long service to regional audiences.

billion, with farm exports making up $78.9 billion of the total.

Farm Proftability and Crop Outlook Strong

Average broadacre farm cash income is expected to increase, with farms forecast to earn $227,000 on average in 2025–26. The national winter crop outlook also remains robust. Production is on track to hit 66.3 million

tonnes, which would be the second-largest winter crop on record Harvest is now underway across all states, with aboveaverage yields reported in northern NSW, Queensland and Western Australia. Some southeastern regions, however, have recorded reduced yields following a dry spring.

“These forecasts highlight the strength, resilience and global competitiveness of Australia’s primary industries as we head into 2026,” Dr Greenville said. The full ABARES Agricultural Commodities Report and Australian Crop Report are available at: agriculture.gov.au/ abares/research-topics/ agricultural-outlook.

Australian Macadamia Crop Finalised After One of Industry’s Toughest Seasons

Ian Rogers

Australia’s macadamia industry has confrmed a 2025 national crop of 43,800 tonnes in-shell at 3.5% moisture (equivalent to 46,940 tonnes at 10% moisture), closing the book on one of the most challenging seasons growers have faced in more than a decade.

The fnal tally comes in slightly above the revised mid-season forecast

released in July but refects the widespread damage left by severe weather events across every major growing region.

Australian Macadamia Society CEO Clare Hamilton-Bate said growers endured an extremely demanding year, pushing many well past their usual harvest timelines.

“Heavy and prolonged rainfall damaged crops, restricted access to orchards, and signifcantly delayed

harvest,” Ms HamiltonBate said. “Some growers were still harvesting into September and October. Despite these pressures, growers and processors worked tirelessly to bring in the best crop possible. The result, while disappointing for many, shows real strength and resilience within our industry.”

Growers across both NSW and Queensland reported their lowest yields in more than ten years, with food-

afected regions particularly hard hit. However, Bundaberg bucked the national trend, achieving its largest crop on record, nearing 30,000 tonnes Much of this growth was driven by the maturity of younger orchards now hitting peak production. The national fgure is based on factory receipts from members of the Australian Macadamia Handlers Association (AMHA), which handles

around 90 per cent of Australia’s crop, combined with estimated production from non-member processors.

Cautious Optimism for 2026

Despite the difcult year, industry leaders are optimistic about the season ahead. Weather conditions have so far been favourable, fowering across most

regions has been strong, and early nut set appears encouraging. With low inventory levels heading into 2026 and continued strong demand from global buyers, the industry’s focus now shifts to rebuilding volumes and supplying premium Australian macadamias to domestic and international markets.

Farm Sector Almost Hits $100 Billion as Productivity Surges

Ian Rogers

Australia’s farm sector is on the verge of hitting its long-standing $100 billion production target, with new ABARES forecasts showing agricultural output is set to reach $99.5 billion in 2025–26. The fgure represents a 6% rise

and brings farmers within what National Farmers’ Federation President Hamish McIntyre describes as “a bee’s whisker” of the industry’s 2030 goal.

Mr McIntyre said the forecast highlights the resilience and adaptability of Australian agriculture

despite global volatility and ongoing extreme weather challenges.

“Farmers have continued to make productivity gains by innovating, adapting to a changing climate and investing back into their farm businesses,” he said. “Most importantly, they’ve put in the hard yards.”

He emphasised that while the sector is close to its target, the job is not done.

“We’re not over the line yet. We need smart policies around trade, tax, regulation, competition and sustainability so we can not only hit the $100 billion goal but exceed it,”

he said.

Mr McIntyre welcomed recent reforms such as the national Right to Repair ruling, which he said will help strengthen the sector’s long-term productivity and reduce unnecessary costs for farmers.

“We’re incredibly

close, but we cannot get complacent,” he said.

“The NFF will continue working with members to reach this milestone — and to focus on what comes next.”

The full ABARES report is available via the Department of Agriculture website.

Australian Macadamia Society CEO Clare Hamilton-Bate

Producers Urged to Prepare Early for a Stress-Free Christmas Period

As the countdown to Christmas begins, Local Land Services is reminding livestock producers to plan ahead to avoid unnecessary stress during the holiday shutdown, when saleyards and meatworks temporarily close. The agency says forward planning now will help ensure stock remain healthy and wellmanaged until markets reopen in the new year.

Principal Program Manager for Animal Biosecurity & Welfare, Lyndell Stone, said producers should assess their livestock numbers and confrm they have enough feed — whether pasture, grain or hay — to maintain stock in good condition over the break.

“Now is a good time to bring stock into the yards, condition score them and draft of any animals suitable for sale before abattoirs close for the holidays,” she said. Check Water, Watch for Heat Stress With temperatures rising, Local Land Services is also urging

landholders to check bores, troughs and dam levels to ensure a reliable water supply. Where dams may dry out, producers should plan

early to move animals to paddocks with secure water sources.

Livestock water consumption increases signifcantly in summer,

and producers should remain alert for signs of heat stress, including rapid breathing, openmouth panting, shadeseeking, increased

drinking, reduced feed intake, staggering or collapse.

Meeting Animal Welfare Standards

Local Land Services is reminding producers that basic welfare requirements still apply during mustering and handling, particularly in hot weather.

Producers should: Move stock early in the morning or late afternoon

Provide adequate shade and fresh water

Ensure feed and water will last throughout the Christmas shutdown

If producers suspect an emergency animal disease over the holiday period, they should immediately contact the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888

For general advice, landholders can speak with a Local Land Services district veterinarian on 1300 795 299

Kelpie on a Wool Pile Wins National Ag Day Photo Competition

Ian Rogers

A tender moment inside a South Australian shearing shed has claimed top honours in the 2025 National Agriculture Day photography and video competition. The winning image, titled Sleeping on Cloud 9 , captures red kelpie “Hazel” fast asleep on a mound of freshly shorn wool — a scene that charmed judges in what organisers say was a record year for entries.

Photographer Kiana Waters took the photograph while working in a Victor Harbor shed alongside her partner during their travels around Australia.

“I decided to take my camera with me to capture some images as this is something I’ve never experienced before,” she said. After watching Hazel help move lambs between pens, Waters noticed the hardworking kelpie curling up on the wool for a well-earned rest.

“This was a moment that needed to be captured.”

The competition — run by the National Farmers’ Federation and sponsored by Syngenta as part of National Agriculture Day celebrations — attracted more than 630 entries, the highest since its inception in 2021.

Six winners will share $5,000 in prizes

NFF President Hamish McIntyre congratulated entrants, saying the standard of submissions refected the deep pride Australians have in agriculture.

“It was hard to pick a winner, but the winning image speaks for itself,” he said. “It was fantastic to see so many people Stand with the Land on Ag Day this year.”

Syngenta ANZ

Managing Director

David Van Ryswyk said the competition

continues to be a powerful celebration of rural life.

“This is such a fantastic way to celebrate Ag Day, and it has been great to be involved for yet another year,” he said. National Agriculture Day is held annually on the third Friday of November.

Other Winning Entries

Second place — First Load at First Light , Connor Smith, Winton QLD

Runners-up — Threads of Gold , Kellie Craft, Pittsworth QLD Harvest 25 , Jack McKibbin, Gilgandra

NSW

We Grow Together , Arlie Becker, Dulacca QLD Life is Sweet (video), Nicole Chiesa, Ingham QLD

The winning images and video are available via the NFF media centre.

Red kelpie “Hazel” fast asleep on a mound of freshly shorn wool

Remember your loved ones in Print and Online Call 1300 679 787 or email jeff@heartlandmedia.com.au

Greg lived a life shaped by three simple but unwavering pillars: Family, Farm and Faith. Born on 5 March 1936, he grew up on the banks of the Richmond River at Tatham and, remarkably, never left the land he loved. From his earliest years, he showed a deep affection for animals, a strong work ethic, and a quiet resilience that would defne his nearly 90 years. He was a man of many skills— mechanic, metalworker, carpenter, plumber, bricklayer and more. If something could be repaired, Greg would repair it, often with plain wire, bale string, and ingenuity. His handcrafted tools, toys and farm creations will stand as enduring reminders of his practical brilliance. As farming changed around him, Greg adapted with the times, solving problems with patience and creativity.

With his beloved wife by his side for more than 64 years, Greg built a life grounded in devotion and steady, enduring love. Their marriage, born from a chance meeting at Evans Head, became a lifelong partnership that weathered hardship, celebrated joy, and raised four children who were his pride. Greg later delighted in becoming “Grandie” to his treasured grandchildren. He lived through foods, droughts, loss and change, yet met every challenge with faith and quiet determination. Even after the devastation of the 2022 food, he simply said, “We have some cows and a bull—we’ll just start again.” Greg was generous with his time, his knowledge, and his heart. He taught by example: humility, gratitude, resilience, and kindness. To those who knew him, he was a giant among men—not because of stature, but because of the strength of his character.

Go in peace, Greg. Rest beside Anthony. You were a father, mentor and friend, deeply loved and forever remembered.

Greg McDonald-Eulogy

TELSTRA IS PLANNING TO RELOCATE A PAYPHONE

It is proposed that a payphone be relocated from:

Outside Lennox Head Public School, 25 Byron Street, Lennox Head NSW 2478 (Cabinet ID: 02668772X2) And be relocated to: Outside Lennox Head Public School, 25 Byron Street, Lennox Head NSW 2478

The payphone will be relocated approximately 23 metres towards Gibbon Street from its current location.

Reference Number: 58989

Telstra intends making a fnal decision on this proposal by: 19th January 2026

To assist us in making a fnal decision, we invite your comments on this proposal. Please send us your comments in writing to:

Telstra Payphone Siting Manager Locked Bag 4850 Melbourne VIC 3001 or by calling us on 1800 011 433 (selection Option 2) or by email to payphones@team.telstra.com

For more information on payphone services (Including any applicable payphone consultation document) see: https://telstra.com/payphones

ALSTONVILLE

CRAWFORD HOUSE MUSEUM

This year Alstonville Public School celebrates 150 years of education on the Plateau, and Alstonville Plateau Historical Society is presenting a small and eclectic exhibition about the school at Crawford House Museum, running until 25/1/26. The museum is 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 merch. for sale which would make great Christmas presents. If you’re a support worker and you bring a client to the museum, your admission is free. The museum is at 10 Wardell Road Alstonville and is open on Fridays 10am-4pm and Sundays 1pm-4pm or at other times by appointment for groups (closed 20/12/25-8/1/26).

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

social events, and special activities throughout the year. Our December meeting will be the final one for the year. We hope to have a wonderful celebration of an enjoyable and fulfilling year. Members will come together to share in the festive spirit, looking forward to Christmas and the New Year ahead. Following the meeting, we will be entertained by a performance from the Emmanuel Anglican College Choir and then enjoy a beautiful Christmas luncheon to conclude the year in style. For more information, please contact our President, Jeanette, on 0407 417 470.

Ballina Photography Club

meets on the first Thursday of the month at Northlakes Community Centre, 1 Mulloway Place, Ballina from 6pm to 9pm.We are currently looking for new members and visitors are always welcome. We are a group of enthusiastic photographers who live in and around Ballina. Members share a common interest in photography and have monthly outings to take photos and share images at meetings. Please contact our President Lyn on 0412 758 697

Ballina Meals on Wheels

1pm. Ph. 0411719074.

IN FOCUS TOASTMASTERS CLUB

How about trying something di erent? If you would like to improve your communication and leadership skills or simply make new friends and have fun, you are warmly invited to attend the In Focus Toastmasters Club. We meet the 3rd Wednesday evening of each month. You may attend either from the comfort of your own home via zoom or join us in person at the Cherry Street Sports Club, Ballina.

BRUNSWICK HEADS

BRUNSWICK VALLEY VIEW CLUB

Brunswick Valley VIEW Club’s monthly luncheons are held at Brunswick Heads Bowling Club on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 10.30am for 11am.Apologies to Wenda on 0449 563 580 no later than the Monday before. VIEW stands for Voice, Interests and Education of Women. The club supports seven disadvantaged students in The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program. 1800 805 366

CASINO

Senior Citizens

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 PROBUS CLUB

Alstonville Probus Club meets on the last Thursday of each month at Plateau Sports Club at 10.00 am. This commences with a cupper and chat, with the formal meeting commencing at 10.30 which includes an interesting guest speaker. All visitors are welcome.

ALSTONVILLE QUOTA CLUB

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

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

PROBUS CLUB OF BALLINA WATERS

The Probus Club of Ballina Waters will hold its next monthly meeting on Wednesday 17 December at the Cherry Street Sports Club commencing at 10.00 a.m. There will be no guest speaker at this meeting as members will be entertained with a Christmas theme. The meeting will be followed by a Christmas lunch. Regular activities include the monthly lunch on the last Friday of the month and a happy hour with nibbles and drinks on the second Friday of the month. These are supplemented by other activities such as bus trips and special luncheons. The club is planning an Australia Day function in January. This club is a mixed club and both men and women are invited to join us for a range of interesting social functions. Further information is available from the Secretary Brian on 0432277170.

CWA Ballina

Craft every Wednesday from 9.00am to 12.00 noon in the CWA rooms, next to RSL. Monthly meeting every 3rd Monday of the month from 9. 00am.Wanting to learn to knit, crochet or sew? Come and join us. Morning tea $3. All are welcome. Contact Gai Mason, Handicraft o icer on 0433129339. President Barbara Driscoll 0428116668

BALLINA LADIES PROBUS The Ballina Ladies Probus meet at 10:00 am on the first Wednesday of each month at the Ballina RSL Club. We currently have vacancies for new members and warmly welcome visitors to join us at a meeting or one of our many outings. Come along and enjoy fun, fellowship and friendship at our monthly meetings,

BALLINA BRIDGE CLUB

Social play every Monday 9am to 11:30am.”. Sessions for all levels of players on Mon, Wed, Sat from 1pm to about 5pm. Be seated at 12:45. Restricted session (under 300 Masterpoints) Thu 1pm – about 5pm. Friday mornings, Help with Play on Fri am times 9am – 11:30. Open to anyone who would like some help with their game from teachers on duty. 9am to about 11:15pm Sessions are $5 for members and $7 for visitors at 13 North Ck Rd, Ballina Call Judy Forsyth: 0407664337.

Ballina Coastal Quilters

We meet at the North Lakes Community Hall in Whiting Way, Ballina on a Wednesday twice a month from 9 am to 2 pm. The group gives opportunities for friendship, support, and socialisation. and to celebrate our creative achievements in the area of quilting and related stitchery. We encourage our members to seek and share knowledge of their skills. New members would be most welcome. The cost is $5 per session Georgia 66876834

BALLINA EVENING VIEW CLUB

Meets on the second Wednesday of each month at the Ballina RSL Club at 6.30 for dinner at 7pm – Guests are always welcome. Our members support the education of disadvantaged children in Australia by fundraising activities and social events in our local community for The Smith Family – by sponsoring 5 Learning for Life students. Ph: Julie Stephan 0434988770.

BALLINA FREE COMMUNITY HOT BRUNCH

Ballina Free Community Hot Brunch, First Saturday of each month.

Everyone is invited to come and enjoy a hot brunch of sausages, rissoles bacon & eggs, cereal, tea and co ee. Or just come for a chat. Frozen take away meals available. Held at the Ballina Presbyterian Hall Corner of Cherry & Crane St

Ballina 10AM TO 12PM Carol: 0438812235

BALLINA LIGHTHOUSE RSL DAY CLUB

A Day Club for elderly and isolated people in our community, held every Thursday at the Richmond Room Ballina. Enjoy morning tea and a mental stimulation exercise like Tai Chi, followed by lunch and afternoon musical entertainment. Every Thursday 10am to 2pm cost $10 Richmond Room, Regatta Avenue Ballina RSVP Lorraine Fox 66874350, 0439301249

BALLINA SENIOR CITIZENS BRIDGE CLUB

Social Bridge Play in Seniors Hall. Swift Street Ballina on Wednesday & Saturdays @ 12.05 pm Enquiries Phone: 0493425002 for details.

BALLINA TOY LIBRARY

Welcomes families from Ballina Shire. 9 Regatta Avenue, Ballina. Open Tuesdays 1pm – 3pm, and Saturdays 10am –

2025 has seen our Senior Citizens experience many di erent experiences, namely bus trips to places of interest, functions, morning teas etc. Our Calendar for 2026 has been completed and once again there are a variety of di erent activities for members to choose from. This year our Christmas Luncheon Day will be held on Saturday 13th December at Casino RSM Club upstairs in the Auditorium. Members are required to advise Jan that you will be attending, any dietary requirements and pay their fee of $10 to attend. Members have been asked to supply a small contribution to our hamper ra les. There will be lots of fun, music, trivia, jokes and good food. Look forward to seeing you there. I would like to take this opportunity to wish our community a very happy, healthy and holy Christmas, and hope you enjoy spending time with family and friends. Let’s hope 2026 will be kind to us all! Jan Danaher – 0414 625 680

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

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 MEALS ON WHEELS

Volunteers needed Our delivery runs are Mon-Fri

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

Hall @ 6:30pm

CASINO MINI RAIL

Every Sunday we are now open from 9.00am to 2.30pm every Sunday (weather permitting). West Street Casino. Phone 0455673722.

CASINO MIXED PROBUS CLUB

Our Meeting is on fourth Thursday of each month at Casino RSM Club at 10:00am.

Contact Kathleen Gri ins, President phone 0427622470 or Daphne Boyd, Secretary phone 0400070085.

CASINO UNITING CHURCH

CAFÉ PRAISE.... Every Wednesday @ 10-11am. All Welcome 10am Morning Tea Fellowship. Welcome and Chat 10.30am Praise and Worship

CASINO VIEW CLUB

Monthly luncheon meeting at Casino RSM Club at 11am, second Thurs of every month. Contact Jan on 0418715374

CASINO AA MEETING – ID MEETING

is held every Tuesday 12:00-1:30pm At the Casino Baptist Church, corner of West & Canterbury Streets Casino. Newcomers welcome. Contact George 0427 133 372.

CASINO AA WOMEN’S MEETINGS

Held every 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month, 12 –1.30pm at the Casino Baptist Church House, 137 Canterbury St, Casino. Contact Liz 0427133370.

LION’S CLUB CASINO

Lion’s Club meeting is held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday each month at Casino RSM Club from 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start. Denise Green 0448014682

LISMORE CASINO NAVAL ASSOCIATION

Meets bi-monthly at Casino RSM, new members welcome. Ph: Chris 66293269 or Jim 0427400625.

THE PLATYPUS RSL DAY CLUB operates every Tuesday at the Community Centre from 10am to 2pm. The day consists of gentle exercises, mental stimulation, games, and entertainment. Members are asked to pay $7 for their morning tea and lunch. Transport can be provided within the town limits. If you are feeling socially isolated or just need a day out, please contact Robyn on 66623871. New members are welcome.

Eltham

ELTHAM MASONIC LODGE – The Eltham Masonic Lodge welcomes all masons, to attend their monthly meetings, which are held on the fourth Tuesday, each month at the Eltham Masonic Centre. The meetings commence at 7.30 pm. If you are not a mason and are interested in joining Freemasonry, for more information please visit our website or phone 0416530456

EVANS HEAD

EVANS HEAD SEAGULLS CRAFT & QUILTERS GROUP Meet every Tuesday 9am-12noonin the Recreation Hall (opposite the Kiosk). We invite you to join us for a relaxing morning of crafting, friendship and sharing ideas. Beginners are very welcome. Finishing UFO’s, Embroidery, Gold Work, Hexagons, & Group Projects are just some of the crafts done.

The Rotary Club of Evans Head Markets held on the Last Saturday of the month held at Cribb Reserve opposite Illawong Hotel at 8am – 1pm. A vast variety of stores from clothes, candle, Honey Photographs, books, and Organic Vegetables along with Rotary Bacon & Egg Rolls

Rotary Evans 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 member’s welcome. 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: 9am12noon; 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 Branch of CWA

Grafton CWA will be holding their last meeting and Christmas Lunch at the Grafton District Services Club on December 12. Morning Tea will be at 9.30am, the general meeting at 10am followed by Christmas lunch at 12.00. The Christmas Ra le will be drawn at the Christmas lunch and delivered to the prize winners. General meetings will recommence on the second Friday of February 2026 at the Grafton District Services Club at 9.30am. Handicraft meetings will on the second and fourth Monday each month and restart in February 2026 at the Salvation Army Hall, 91 Oliver Street 9.30-11.30am. The last Handicraft meeting will be 8 December 2025.Look forward to Grafton CWA celebrating their 100th Centenary in 2026. There will be many celebrations and activities with a Grafton CWA Cookbook launch in May and a celebration dinner in October.

GRAFTON U3A

Our final Jabberfest for the year was held in early November. Our guest speaker Je Smith of I Scream fame provided a most interesting and entertaining presentation covering recollections from his 15 years of ‘ice cream scooping’. After then taking questions, he was thanked and presented with a woodwork memento created by the artisans from the Mens Shed. Our Jabberfests will resume in February 2026 with an interesting line-up of presenters for the year being organized by the Committee. As the year draws to close, the majority of our groups are beginning to wind down as we move towards Christmas and will resume activities in late January/February. Our annual Christmas Luncheon was held on 1 December with the venue again being Vines@139. A wonderful party atmosphere permeated the room with many members attired in Christmas regalia. There were lucky door prizes drawn during the service of an excellent twocourse meal by Erin and her team. Entertainment, Christmas Carols, judging of the Christmas T-Shirt competition won by Carole Cairns and Mike Gillespie made for a most enjoyable experience and great camaraderie abounded. To quote an attendee “all in all – a great day”! Grafton U3A o ers a range of courses/interest groups covering a wide spectrum of activities promoting learning for personal enjoyment and wellbeing. Keeping the brain active, making new friends and helping members to maximise their independence by remaining healthy and active for longer. Course and Interest Group details are available on the Grafton U3A website, and all groups are always happy to welcome new members. Members also receive the monthly newsletter “Jabber Journal” to keep them up to date. If you are considering membership of Grafton U3A and would like more information, please contact Bruce Carle on 0409 225 536.U3A is the University of the Third Age and a worldwide movement. It is the age of active retirement coming after the ages of youth, work and home making. University is rather a loose term as there are no academic requirements for membership and no exams. New members are always most welcome. In closing we take the opportunity to wish readers and their families the peace, joy and blessings of Christmas and health and happiness in 2026

GRAFTON AL-ANON FAMILY GROUP

Our meetings are held weekly on Tuesdays at 12md – 1.30pm at the Salvation Army Hall, 91-93 Oliver Street, Grafton. Meetings are always confidential. The Al-Anon Family Groups are a fellowship of relatives and friends of Alcoholics who share their experience, strength, and hope in order to solve their common problems. We believe alcoholism is a family illness and that changed attitudes can aid recovery. Al-Anon is not allied with any sect, denomination, political entity, organization, or institution; does not engage in any controversy neither endorses nor opposes any cause. There are no dues for membership. Al-Anon is self-supporting through its own voluntary contributions. Al-Anon has but one purpose: to help families of alcoholics. We do this by practicing the Twelve Steps, by welcoming and giving comfort to families and friends of alcoholics and by giving understanding and encouragement to the alcoholic. For further information talk to a member in confidence call 1300 252 666

An Amazing Event is coming to Grafton Gallery!

Our River, Our Stories, Our Song. Clarence River Guardians and the Grafton Regional Gallery present Water Talks Gathering a celebration of our river on World Rivers Day. Enjoy River Stories, hear about cutting edge river research, and be moved by the Youth Dance Mob’s Performance of Big River Song. When: Sunday 28th September, 11am – 2pm

Where: Grafton Regional Gallery Includes: Finger food, tea and co ee. Come and Celebrate Our River! Proudly supported by Southern Cross University and The Lions Club of Clarence – Environmental

GRAFTON’S MIGHTY CLARENCE TOASTMASTERS CLUB

Perhaps it’s time to find out what it’s all about! If you would like to improve your communication and leadership skills. Make new friends and have fun, you are warmly invited to attend the Mighty Clarence Toastmasters Club. We meet on the 1st & 3rd Wednesday evening of each month. You may attend either from the comfort of your own home via zoom or join us in person at the Joan Muir Community Centre: 194 Turf Street, Grafton.

GRAFTON SENIORS BE FIT EXERCISE CLASSES

Every Friday at the Uniting Church, Prince Street. Join us for gentle exercises designed for Seniors. We meet at 10.30a.m. for a cuppa and a chat with the exercises commencing at 11. All equipment is provided and there is no cost to the participants. Further information can be obtained from Chris 0400490691 or Dot on 66423248 or 0477213017

Grafton VIEW Club

Grafton VIEW Club meets on the 4th Tuesday each month at Grafton District Services Club, Mary Street, commencing at 10.30am. Please come along & enjoy yourself with a tasty meal, motivated guest speaker & at the same time you will help disadvantaged children. Please phone Helen at 6642 3867 for catering purposes no later than the Friday before the meeting. As well, a social outing is held each month. You are warmly invited to come along, have some fun & you will be helping others as well. See you there!

CLARENCE RIVER HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Clarence River Historical Society – Schae er House Museum. 190 Fitzroy Street Grafton. 2460. Phone 0266425212.We are welcoming many visitors through the museum, often from interstate and on bus trips, not only to see our wonderful collection of artefacts gathered over 90 years but also to research family history and/or places of interest in the Valley. Research Room hours are from 9 to 3 Tuesday to Thursday and Museum hours are from1 to 4 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Other times can be arranged. Admission is $6 for adults and $3 for children. If you would like to become a member of our Society and receive our interesting newsletters contact the Secretary, Robyn. Membership fees are $27 yearly.

HASTINGS POINT

HASTINGS POINT COMMUNITY CHOIR

Do you enjoy singing. Our repertoire covers a variety of music styles – both unison and part singing We would love you to join us. New members needed. You will be made most welcome When: Tuesday Evenings from 7pm –8.30pm Where: Tricare Residential Village Community Room Tweed Coast Road, next to Shell Petrol Station. For more information, contact Jean Berry 0414794380

PROBUS CLUB OF HASTINGS POINT – The Probus Club of Hastings Point Tweed Coast meets at Hastings Point Tricare resident's lounge, on 3rd Tuesday each month, commencing with a guest speaker at 10am. Retirees and seniors are welcome to join this happy social group. Phone the Probus president Di Mills 044 732 5387 for more information.

KINGSCLIFF

KINGSCLIFF 500 CARD CLUB

Kingscli 500 Card Club. Monday and Wednesday afternoons 1pm to 4pm Cudgen Surf Club New players WELCOME Contact: GARY 0499869992

Kingscli Probus Club

First Wednesday of the month, 10am to 12 noon in the function room of Kingscli Bowls Club. We have an interesting guest speaker each month plus bus trips to various points on the map each third Wednesday of the month. Retirees and seniors are most welcome to join us in this happy social group. Ph Marlene 0428323736

KYOGLE

Kyogle Country Music

After a very enjoyable year held by Kyogle Country Music at the Wiangarie Hall we are having our Breakup at the Hall on 14th December. First Show for 2026 is commencing on 8th February. Our days are always held on a Sunday and commence at 11 am. Everybody most welcome.

BORDER RANGES RSL DAY CLUB

The Kyogle Border Ranges RSL Day Club meets each Monday in the Kyogle Seniors Centre, 3 Bloore St, Kyogle, from 10am to 2pm.Cost $10, includes Morning Tea and Lunch. We welcome Volunteers and Members, if you are in need of some Company, you are welcome to attend. Come along and have some fun. Contact Oriel 0427245324.

KYOGLE WRITERS GROUP

Kyogle Writers Group meets on the last Saturday of each month and we welcome newcomers. We meet at the Roxy Lane back. entrance to the Kyogle Memorial Institute (Supper Room). Our aim is to provide support and encouragement for those new to writing, as well as more experienced writers. We practice many genres of writing poetry, memoir, and journaling to name a few. Morning tea at 9.30am is followed by our meeting from 10.00am till 12.00 pm. Throughout the year we have planned some wonderful writing workshops facilitated by local authors. For further information contact Vince on 0459 574179 or Susan on 0414 958245.

KYOGLE TIDY TOWNS FARMERS MARKET

Held every Saturday morning in Stratheden Street from 8am – 12. Come along grab some local fruit & veggies, experience all Kyogle has to o er. New Stall Holders welcome. Ph: Anne 66321851

LION’S CLUB OF KYOGLE

Meeting is held on the 1st & 3rd Tuesday each month at the Kyogle Lion’s shed from 6.30–7pm.Contact Neville Moon on 0448222334.

RICHMOND RIVER BEEF PRODUCER’S ASSOCIATION

Meet on the 2nd Wednesday of every month at Kyogle Showgrounds in the luncheon room at 7pm.Ph: Jan on 0427293455.

KYOGLE BAZAAR

Fourth Saturday of every month.

See Kyogle Bazaar on social media for all the details or call 0459512249.

LENNOX HEAD

LENNOX HEAD EVENING VIEW CLUB

Meets on the second Tuesday of each month upstairs at the Lennox Hotel at 6.30pm for dinner at 7pm. Guests are welcome. “VIEW members support the education of disadvantaged Australian children by raising much needed funds for The Smith Family. Through fundraising activities and social events in local communities, members raise money that goes directly to The Smith Family’s learning and mentoring programs for disadvantaged. Students.” Lennox Head Evening VIEW Club currently sponsors two Learning for Life students': Sue Brennan 0409728814.

LENNOX HEAD LIONS CLUB

New members welcome to join our close-knit club where the emphasis is on community service in a fun environment. Meetings are on the first and Third Wednesday of each month at Club Lennox starting at 6.30pm. Members do what they can, when they can to facilitate the needs of our club.

PROBUS CLUB OF LENNOX HEAD

Meets 9.30 for 10 at Club Lennox, 10 Stewart Street, on the first Thursday of each month. Visitors are welcome, also retired, or semi-retired people wishing to join our nonservice 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 December Commences at 10am to 12pm at the South Lismore Bowls Club, 25 Wilson Street South Lismore. New members always welcomed. We also would like to wish everyone a happy Holidays. Any inquiries contact Marie 0448871290

AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS

Al-Anon o ers help and hope for family and friends of alcoholics. If someone in your family has a drinking problem, you can see what it's doing to them. But can you see what it's doing to YOU? For information and help call 1300 ALANON (1300 252 666). Al-Anon Family Groups meet regularly across Australia 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.

LISMORE CWA. Activities Update Stall at the Lismore City Bowlo markets on the 3rd Sunday of

each month. Monthly Branch Meetings are held at the CWA Rooms in Spinks Park on the 2nd Friday of each month. Craft Meetings (learning & friendship) are held at the CWA Rooms each Tuesday with a 10:30am start. Christmas Gift Wrapping will be held at 2 locations from the 15th to 24th December. Lismore Shopping SQ. and downtown outside ‘Little Polli & the Blackbird’ Cnr. Carrington & Magellan Sts in Lismore. For Membership enquiries contact our President Aliison Kelly on 0428 216 079: for Craft call Vicki Boyle on 0437 465 642. We look forward to hearing from anyone interested in Membership to come along as a ‘guest’ to either of our meetings.

Lismore Garden Club

meets on the 2nd Thursday of each month at the East Lismore Bowling Club, commencing at 1pm. The Club has guest speakers, visits to members’ gardens and enjoy a morning tea and friendship whilst taking in the beautiful gardens. Day trips away are also on the agenda from time to time. There is the opportunity to display something special such as a particular flower or produce each month. New members are most welcome. For further information, contact the Secretary, phone 0416 281 365.

AA MEETINGS

Lismore RED DOVE AA Meetings, Every Monday, Wednesday & Friday 12 Noon and Sundays 10.30am. Upstairs in The Uniting Church, cnr of Keen St & Woodlark St Lismore. Disability lifts available. Newcomers welcome.

LISMORE LIBRARY

Library Afterschool

Lismore Children's Library is launching a new program of after-school activities called Library Afterschool. This term, we invite local children to get involved in PAPERCRAFT and LEGO activities. All sessions will be fun, free, low-key and inclusive, facilitated by your friendly Lismore Children's Library sta . PAPERCRAFT 3.30pm-5pm at Lismore Children’s Library, first and third Tuesday of the month. Papercraft will include learning to draw, making origami and scissor-and-glue crafts. LEGO 3.30pm-5pm at Lismore Children’s Library, second and fourth Friday of the month Explore our excellent LEGO collection. Alternating themed and free-play sessions. The Northern Rivers Lodge No. 77 meets on the 2nd Wednesday of each month (except in January) at the Lismore Masonic Centre, 111 Magellan Street Lismore. We welcome all Masons to an enjoyable and entertaining evening. Inquiries 0412665674

LISMORE CRAFTS & QUILTERS

You are invited to join, LISMORE CRAFTS & QUILTERS. We meet on Mondays at the Lismore Uniting Church, Red Dove, Hall 9.30am – 12.30pm. We do Patchwork, Quilting & all Crafts. We also have night group, who meet at McLean Ridges Hall, Monday evenings, 5.30pm – 9pm. Cost is $30 for the year & $5 each Monday. Looking forward to seeing you. Enquiries to Margaret Boxsell 0427141425

LISMORE LIONS CLUB

Please save your used stamps to raise funds for The Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation. Stamps are collected & forwarded on to be sorted & sold at Auction, to raise money for Children’s Mobility contact Margaret Boxsell on 0427141425

Lismore City Bowling

Lismore City Bowling and Recreation Club Community BINGO every Monday morning 10 am to 12 noon. Morning tea and Progressive Jackpot. All welcome. Phone 66 21 5991.

LISMORE CITY CONCERT BAND

Rehearsals are held during school terms on Mondays, 6.15-7.45pm at Southern Cross University. If you can play a concert band instrument: brass, woodwind, or percussion, please come and join us! All ages welcome. We have some instruments available for loan. Ph: 0432575911

LISMORE MEN & COMMUNITY SHED

President: Mr Bob Greig 0404860504 publicity o icer Don Abrahams 0437576837

Opening Hours: Tuesday & Thursday 9.00am – 3.00pm We are a community based non-profit organisation. Everybody is welcome: men, women & people with a disability of all ages. We encourage social inclusion. Our aim is to promote the mental, physical & emotional well-being of people in our community. Shed Activities Members work on their own projects, Mentoring is available, General woodworking, Welding & light engineering, Repair & restoration of items for the public Constructing projects, of items for the public Constructing projects for preschools, hospitals & other organisations Assembling flatpack, Minor maintenance work for the elderly & disabled, working with the disabled, talking with other members or simply having company. Memberships: $40-year Attendance Fee: $3 tea/co ee 15 Industry Drive East Lismore

LISMORE ORCHID SOCIETY INC.

City of Lismore Orchid Society Inc. Meetings are now at the Lismore Show Ground, In Norms Kitchen under the Members Grandstand. Alexandra Parade, North Lismore. NSW 2480 Meeting Date; the first Saturday of the month Meeting Time: 9:30am display plants set up, 10:00am meeting starts with a cuppa after. Contact President Mr. Steven Muldoon 0427789773

Orchid meeting involves the sharing of information, knowledge and friendship. All welcome. Lismore City Bowling and Recreation Club Community BINGO every Monday Morning 10am to 12 noon. Morning tea and Progressive Jackpot. All welcome. Ph 6621 5991

LISMORE SENIOR CITIZENS

Meet at the Goonellabah Community Centre every second Thursday starting at 9am where we have morning tea followed by games bingo how etc we play cards Monday and Friday and play bowls Tuesdays and craft every second Tuesday afternoons come and join our friendly group you will be very welcome.

LISMORE SPINNERS & WEAVERS

Please join us Weaving, Spinning, Felting, Dyeing, Knitting, Crochet, Workshops, Chat.... Sharing Craft & Ideas. From 10am, on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Fridays of each month. (Formal business meeting is 10.30-11.30 every 1st Friday) McLeans Ridges Hall Cnr Cowlong and McLeans Ridges Rds. (o Bruxner Hwy) Morning Tea provided. Bring your lunch (and a mug) Contac: Kim: 0423935060, Linda: 0419489987

LISMORE TARGET RIFLE CLUB for .22 calibre rifles, meets Wed nights from 6.00pm (setup time) & the 1st & 3rd Sat of each month from 12.30pm (setup time). Air rifle shooting for .22 & 177 air rifles will also be available at the Saturday shoots. For more information, please phone Derek on 66282082 (ah).

CO-DEPENDANTS ANONYMOUS (CoDA)

Co-Dependants Anonymous is a Twelve Step Fellowship of people whose common purpose is to develop healthy relationships. The only requirement for membership is a desire for healthy relationships.The CoDA meeting in the Lismore area meets on Mondays from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Riverland’s Drug and Alcohol Centre. 75 Hunter Street, Lismore. For further information call 0456178826 or 0408336143

EAST LISMORE BOWLING CLUB

Community Bingo Tuesday night 7.30pm start. 20 games of bingo + progressive jackpot Neilson Street East Lismore. Everyone Welcome

EAST LISMORE SOCIAL TENNIS

Social Tennis is played at East Lismore Tennis Club, Cnr Neilson St & Oakley Avenue every Tuesday from 8am. We invite social players of all abilities to join us, we are a mixed group who enjoy a morning’s tennis without the commitment of competition. Ph: Fay Ross 0412910487. Everyone welcome.

MAINLY MUSIC

Fun, interactive, music sessions for young children [birth to school age] and their parents/caregivers in a relaxed setting on Tuesdays starting at 9:30am during School Terms. Children will be introduced to music, creativity and more. They will develop gross motor skills, as well as socialise with others in a loving, shared family environment. Morning tea with snacks included. Mainly Music at Lismore Anglican Parish Centre, 10 Zadoc Street, LISMORE. T: 0266213200

PROBUS CLUB OF LISMORE HEIGHTS

Our mixed group meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month at the Lismore Heights Bowling Club in High St. Our brief meeting is followed by morning tea and a guest speaker. Senior’s lunch for $15 at noon is optional. Guests and visitors are welcome. Ring/text Roslyn on 0437606674 for details of our other monthly social gatherings and outings.

ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE NETWORKING

Want to be part of an innovative, interesting, and inclusive networking group who meet fortnightly to share ideas, meet other professionals and work together to make a di erence in your community? Then Rotary Club of Lismore Networking could be the answer for you! Meets on the 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month at 5.30pm at The Civic Hotel (210 Molesworth Street Lismore). Ph: Rita on 0413300578 or Gae 0412742095.

ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE WEST INC

East Lismore Bowling Club each Thursday at 6pm. New members would be made most welcome. Further information available on 0428151934.

ROTARY CLUB OF SUMMERLAND SUNRIS E

Interested in contributing to community? Local and

international?

The Rotary Club of Summerland Sunrise meets every Friday at 7.05am for Breakfast at Red Dove Café 80 Keen st Lismore. Join us please. Ph: 0435990919

SUMMERLAND AMATEUR RADIO CLUB

Meetings of the club are normally held on the second Sunday of each month at the clubrooms: 412 Richmond Hill Road, Richmond Hill at 1pm. Visitors are welcome. The clubrooms are usually open on Sunday afternoons from about 1pm onwards. We are primarily amateur radio enthusiasts and welcome persons interested in radio, electronics, astronomy, and similar subjects.

SUMMERLAND BONSAI SOCIETY INC.

Come and learn an addictive hobby with us. We provide personal support from experienced teachers as well as demonstrations and Bonsai information. Club days are held on the second Saturday of every month at 1pm in the Red Dove at Lismore Be inspired about the art of creating little trees. Ph: 0438103601

ZEN and INSIGHT MEDITATION – Lismore Heights INSIGHT (VIPASSANA) MEDITATION and practice:This mindfulness-based meditation group sits on Wednesdays from 7:00-8:30pm. The evening includes meditation instructions, sitting and walking meditation, Dharma talks and discussion. For further details, please contact Rosie –0402 682 925. Beginners and experienced meditations are warmly welcomed.

ZEN MEDITATION and practice The Zen meditation group sits on Mondays from 6:30pm-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.

YAMBA

YAMBA LIONS CLUB

Yamba Lions Club’s meetings are held 2nd & 4th Thursdays of month at Yamba Bowling Club, commencing at 7pm for 7.30pm. For further information, please contact the Secretary Peter 0417546097. Social outings also held at various time and visitors and new members’ welcome.

ALL NORTHERN RIVERS

NORTHERN RIVES MUSTANGS

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

NORTHERN RIVERS PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUPS MEMBERS PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING CHANGES TO NORMAL PROCEDURE FOR EACH GROUPDAY GROUP – FINAL GATHERING FOR 2025 TO BE HELD WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 10TH – THIS IS TO BE THE CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON RATHER THAN A REGULAR MEETING COMMENCING 11AM FOR 12 NOON AT THE ALSTONVILLE PLATEAU SPORTS CLUB, DEEGAN DRIVE – ALSTONVILLE– It is imperative that Convenor Bob receives Names and Numbers as soon as possible to enable table bookings to be secured –Partners and Carers as well as Evening Group Members are most welcome to attend – Enquiries phone Bob Corney 0493 075 612 – or 0400 747 630 –EVENING GROUP –TO BE HELD WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 10TH 2025 RATHER THAN THE NORMAL FIRST WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH DUE TO UNFORESEEN CIRCUMSTANCES –TO COMMENCE 6.30 FOR 7PM – ALTERNATE 2 COURSE MEAL CHOICE – LISMORE WORKERS CLUB – KEEN STREET –LISMORE –All welcome including Partners, Carers and Day Group Members –Names and Numbers to be with Convenor Bob Johnson (02) 6622 5792 or Secretary Vida Stenner 0416 196 035 on or before DECEMBER 3RD –

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS If you’re looking for help to stop drinking, you can reach out to Alcoholics Anonymous 24 hours a day. Our phone line is always answered by someone who’s been where you are – an alcoholic in recovery. We understand the challengers, and we know we’re the right people to help you. You can call AA anytime on 1300 22 22 22.

WEATHER

FORECAST

Northern Rivers District:

Mostly sunny morning. The chance of morning fog inland. The chance of a storm in the afternoon. Light winds becoming east to northeasterly 15 to 25 km/h during the day then becoming light during the evening.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog inland. Slight chance of a shower. The chance of a storm in the afternoon and evening. Light winds becoming easterly 15 to 25 km/h during the day then becoming light during the evening.

Northern Tablelands District:

Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog in the south. Medium chance of showers in the south, slight chance elsewhere. The chance of a storm in the afternoon and evening. Light winds

becoming easterly 15 to 20 km/h during the afternoon then becoming light during the evening.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog in the north. High chance of showers in the south, medium chance elsewhere. The chance of a storm in the afternoon and evening. Light winds becoming easterly 15 to 20 km/h during the afternoon.

New South Wales:

Isolated showers and storms for the central and northern coast, ranges and plains as well as for the southern coast. Chance of showers for the far west. Dry and sunny elsewhere. Chance of morning fog on the northern and southern ranges. Temperatures above average across the state, up to 6C above average for the far west and southern inland. Winds northeasterly to southeasterly for inland parts, fresh at times

in the far west. Winds northeasterly for northern parts of the coast, south to southeasterly for southern and central parts of the coast.

Thursday. Scattered showers and storms continue for the central and northern coast, ranges and plains as well as for the southern coast. Chance of storms and showers for the far west and for the southern inland. Chance of morning fog on the northern and southern ranges. Temperatures 4-6C below average on the coast, tending near average in the far west. Winds northeasterly to southeasterly for inland areas, fresh at times in the far west. Winds northerly for northern parts of the coast, south to southeasterly for southern and central parts of the coast, tending easterly across the whole coast over the course of the day.

Australia’s Surfing Greats Celebrated at 2025 Australian Surfing Awards

Jef Gibbs

Here is your 300-word version, keeping all key facts tight, clear and news-ready:

Australia’s top surfers, board shapers, coaches and contributors were celebrated on the Gold Coast on Saturday night at the 2025 Australian Surfng Awards incorporating the Hall of Fame. Held at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, the event brought together legends of the sport and emerging talent for Australian surfng’s pinnacle night of recognition.

The highest honour went to Graham “Sid” Cassidy, inducted into the Australian Surfng Hall of Fame. A pioneering journalist, promoter and event director, Cassidy was widely credited with helping shape professional surfng in the 1970s and 1980s. His work securing landmark sponsorships such as the Coca-Cola Surfabout and helping establish the Australian Professional Surfng Association (APSA) was celebrated, along with his later leadership of the Association of Surfng Professionals from 1987 to 1994, where he helped form the tiered competition system used today.

Olympians Dane Henry and Molly Picklum were named Male and Female Surfer of the Year.

Picklum, fresh from her maiden world title, said the honour capped a defning season marked by heavy-water performances and breakthrough victories. “To be recognised here at home after such a massive year means the world,” she said.

Henry, a dual ISA gold medallist and Australian Open Men’s champion, dedicated his award to his family and longtime coach Adam Dufner, who also earned Coach of the Year.

Rising Star awards went to Byron Bay’s Leihani Kaloha Zoric and rising powerhouse

Locana Cullen after standout seasons on the global stage. Tom Myers received the Heavy Water Award for his achievements in big-wave surfng.

In creative honours, Liam O’Brien and Darcy Ward’s Friction of Perception won Surf Film of the Year, while renowned board shaper Darren Handley was named Shaper of the Year.

Adaptive surfers Annie Goldsmith and Joel Taylor claimed Para Surfer of the Year titles, and Mark ‘Mono’ Stewart received the Greater Good Award for his leadership in para surfng.

The night reafrmed Australia’s strength, depth and global impact in surfng.

SPORTS RESULTS

Casino Bowls Results – Wednesday 3

December 2025

It was down-to-the-wire action on the greens this week, with both rinks served up tight, tactical battles.

Janine Robards Page, Raelene Skirrey and Chris Haynes produced a composed and classy performance to edge out the pairing of Carmel Doyle and Jan Dwyer — who shared their role for half a game each — alongside Julie Creighton and Ivy Watson.

The Haynes-skipped outft not only claimed the win but also clinched Winners of the Day , banking the lowest winning aggregate in a tidy, disciplined display.

On the neighbouring rink, Sandra Guthrie, Maryanne Chandler and Helen Lavelle were in sharp touch, overcoming a strong challenge from Valda Jennings, Jan Cooke and Denise Skinner. Both matches showcased terrifc mid-week bowls and plenty of friendly rivalry.

Coraki Veterans Golf Results

– Thursday 4 December 2025

The December Monthly Medal drew 59 determined golfers, all chasing yearending bragging rights in ideal playing conditions.

Medal Winner: G. Gibson

Vets Winner & Putting Champion: B. Micheal Runner-Up: P. Martin

Third: D. Wells

Free Game: N. Cuppitt

The chicken/ball winners list ran deep, with solid rounds from:

G. Tait, T. McBurney, J. O’Brien, M. Fairfull, L. Newton, B. Collyer, P. Smith, W. Swindle, J. Perkins, W. Henwood, R. Webber, J. Lassig, S. Toms, J. Weaver, W. Lunnon and P. Brophy. Pin-seeking precision was on display with:

3rd/12th: S. McDonough 6th/15th: J. Weaver

Max reports spirits were high as players closed out the medal round in style.

Next Thursday promises more action with an 18-hole Single Stableford of the red tees, 8:00am shotgun start GOOD GOLFING — Max

Dane Henry and coach Adam Dufner. Credits: Surfng Australia / Ethan Smith

Tail enders tie up Lawrence

By Tim Howard

When Maclean United numbers 10 and 11 came together at 9-91 in the game against Lawrence the Clarence Valley frst grade cricket competition, the Lawrence players were getting ready to enjoy a winning beverage or two.

Instead Jordan Fischer, 35no and last batter in, Campbell Kelly 28no combined in a 67-run stand that took them level with the Lawrence tally of 6-158, making the game a tie.

The Lawrence bowlers didn’t help themselves bowling 26 wides and eight no-balls in a tally of 44 extras.

It was a frustrating turnaround for Lawrence, who looked to be dominating the game from the opening overs. Batting frst, they overcame the loss of an early wicket when Mark Ensbey fell for 10 with the score at 10.

A fourth wicket partnership of 88 between Nathan Ensbey, 62 and Sam Ensbey, 26, provided the backbone of the Lawrence innings which looked, at worst,

competitive at the end of 40 overs.

Opening bower Kelly made the early breakthrough and picked up another wicket later to take 2-38 from seven overs.

Brady Walker, with 2-7 from six overs had the pick of the fgures for Maclean.

The Lawrence attack immediately had Maclean in trouble at 3-19 in their run chase, but skipper Dan McColl, 12 and allrounder Kai Brossman, 10 put on 31 to get the score to 50.

But disaster struck when three more wickets tumbled without addition to the total and three more fell by the time the total reached 91.

Then it was time for Fischer and Kelly to produce their heroics. It wasn’t a boundary laden assault, with both batter hitting the pickets twice each in their innings. Instead they relied on stubborn defence and astute running between wickets to keep the scoreboard ticking over. Lawrence skipper Ben Shaw was miserly in his bowling, taking 3-17. Opening bowler Jack

Cheney, 3-40 was also among the wickets, although his economy rate was higher than the match average.

The 158 scoreline also featured at Harwood Oval in the match between the home team and GDSC Easts.

Batting frst East recovered from 2-4 thanks to a 115-run partnership between Shannon Connor, 55 and Max Forwell, 59. Harwood did well to contain the damage to just this pair as no other batter reached double fgures.

From a potentially threatening 3-119 Harwood were delighted to keep wickets falling and the run rate down as Easts stumbled to 7-158 at the end of 40 overs.

Isaac Fischer, 2-26 and Jacob McMahon, 2-29 had the best fgures, but the attack had an attack of the wides, bowling 22 between them in the innings.

Harwood made light work of the run chase with openers Kallen Lawrence, 41 and Alex Moftt, 43, knocking 78 from the victory target.

A furry of wickets when Harwood lost 3-23 gave

Easts an opening but a 47-run stand between Hayden McMahon, 23no and Colby Vallette, 22no, guided the team to victory.

At Iluka the home team found Tucabia Copmanhurst in an uncharitable moods despite a couple of good performances with the bat from Damian Senz, 61, and Beau-Dean Oestermann, 38.

On the back of their 65run partnership Iluka put together 149, a total that is competitive on some days.

Saturday was not one of those days, as Tucabia knocked of the runs midway through the 25th over of their innings.

Tucabia were able to keep the Iluka total down due to some inspired bowling from of-spinner Joe Pigg, who took 4-26 in 6.4 overs.

Nathan Blanch was economical in taking 2-22 and Andrew Ellis also had a couple of wickets for 26.

Travis Anderson led the run chase for Tucabia, fnishing with 58no.

Matt Dougherty opened with him and scored 28, Beau Sevil, 19 and Bohdi Henwood 19no were others to contribute.

For the home team Shaun Laurie took some stick, but picked up a couple of wickets for 41. His economy rate of 6.83 was not the worst.

Next week is the fnal game before the Christmas break and the end of the one-day games for the season.

Iluka hosts GDSC Easts at the Iluka Sportsground.

At Ellem Oval, Grafton, it’s Lawrence and Tucabia and Maclean plays hosts to Harwood at Barry Watts Oval, Maclean.

And in representative cricket news, the CRCA team for Wednesday night’s T20 game against Lower Clarence under lights at McKittrick Park, South Grafton, has been announced.

Shannon Connor, Beau Sevil, Darby Rouse, Lewis Chevalley, Theo Lobsey, Bohdi Henwood, Nathan Anderson, Matt Doherty (captain/wicketkeeper), Dave Duroux, Dylan Lucas, Sam Ensby, Gus Lobsey. The game begins at 6pm.

A fle photo of Easts batter Shannon Connor unleashing a powerful drive. He scored a typically brisk 55 in a losing cause against Harwood on Saturday. Photo: Gary Nichols.

CLEAR

GO DOWN SWINGING

By Gary Nichols

Photo: