The Northern Rivers Times Newspaper Edition 229

By Samantha Elley on Page 4

By Tim Howard on Page 7

By Tim Howard on Page 8

Lismore Lays the Foundation for a World-Class Skatepark

JEFF GIBBS

Lismore’s long-awaited $3.9 million skatepark has reached a major milestone, with the frst 2400m² of concrete set to be poured this week, marking the beginning of construction for what promises to be a gamechanging facility for the region.

Local leaders, including Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg and State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffn, inspected the site as progress on the skatepark moves forward.

A Transformational Project for Lismore

“This is starting to get very real,” said Mayor Krieg. “It’s going to be a game-changer for our young people, who no longer need to travel to Goonellabah to skate. Built to such a high standard, it will also allow us to host national and international competitions, enhancing Lismore’s reputation for top-tier regional sporting facilities.”

The skatepark will feature street and park (bowl) sections and a covered mini ramp that local skaters are especially excited about. A tribute rail honouring the late Travis Watson—a passionate skater and advocate for the sport in Lismore— will be an integral part of the design.

A Vision Realized State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffn expressed pride in seeing the project take shape, noting Travis Watson’s

pivotal role in its inception.

“Travis was not only a dear friend but also a gifted skater and mentor. He would be thrilled to see his vision of a modern and inclusive skatepark becoming a reality,” Ms. Saffn said. The project is fully funded by the NSW Government through Round 2 of the MultiSport Community Facility Fund. Ms. Saffn highlighted the extensive consultation process led by Australia’s premier

skatepark designers, CONVIC, ensuring the facility meets the needs of the local skating community while being capable of hosting elitelevel competitions.

Designed for All Levels

CONVIC’s design incorporates feedback from local skaters, riders, professional athletes, and event organizers.

Olympic skateboarding judge Renton Millar also contributed to ensure the skatepark meets international standards for competitions and training.

Economic and Community Benefts

The skatepark is more than just a facility for skating—it’s a boost for Lismore’s economy. Mayor Krieg emphasized the potential for national skating events to attract visitors, beneftting local businesses. “Events will draw people to our motels, restaurants, and retailers, providing an economic boost to our city.”

With skating now an Olympic sport and the Northern Rivers region producing world-class athletes, this skatepark will elevate Lismore’s profle as a hub for elite and grassroots skating alike.

Looking Ahead

As construction progresses, the Lismore community eagerly anticipates the skatepark’s opening and the opportunities it will bring—both as a stateof-the-art recreational facility and as a platform for showcasing the region’s talent to the world.

BUILDING COMMUNITY POWER for CLIMATE JUSTICE

Left to right: Member for Page Janelle Saffn, Deputy Mayor Jeri Hall, Willow Hall, Reya Davis, Joanne Sriamporn, Indiana Davis, Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg.

WILLIAMSON CALLS FOR IMMEDIATE ACTION ON CANE TOAD FUNDING

The Minns Labor Government must act urgently to reinstate funding for Landcare programs in the Northern Rivers to combat the spread of cane toads, says Nationals Member for Clarence Richie Williamson.

“The dedicated teams at Richmond Landcare, the Border Range Richmond Valley Landcare Network, and Clarence Landcare, who work tirelessly across my electorate, deserve consistent and adequate government support,” Mr Williamson said.

“Funding for cane toad control programs has been slashed by more than 60%, leaving Landcare groups struggling to maintain their vital work. Ongoing funding is critical to slowing the spread of these

invasive pests, which are encroaching on new areas at an alarming rate.”

Mr Williamson noted the NSW Government previously allocated $160,000 annually to support Landcare’s efforts, a commitment that was cut in the latest budget.

“This funding cut is a short-sighted decision that puts our environment at risk.

Cane toads are more than just a nuisance— they represent an ecological disaster marching south through the Clarence electorate.

The Government appears to be asleep at the wheel while this biosecurity threat escalates,” he said.

The NSW Government’s Cane Toad Biosecurity Zone encompasses all areas of the state except the

northeastern portion, where cane toads have already established populations. This buffer zone, which cuts through the Clarence electorate, is now at risk of being breached.

“Without proper funding, we cannot effectively defend the biosecurity zone or prevent further incursions. It’s imperative that the Government reinstates this vital funding to support Landcare’s efforts in controlling the movement of cane toads,” Mr Williamson said.

He urged the Government to prioritise environmental protection and provide the resources necessary to safeguard local ecosystems and communities from the devastating impact of cane toads.

Lismore gets its own peace pole

Peace Pole No. 360 now sits atop the food levee in Riverside Park, Victoria Street, Lismore, near the Norco Butter Churn, thanks to a presentation by Summerland Sunrise Rotary Club last Thursday.

The Peace Pole is the international symbol of peace and displays the message ‘May Peace Prevail on Earth’ and usually includes the message in a number of languages relevant to the city it is placed in.

The Summerland Sunrise Rotary Club has chosen the languages of Japanese (in respect of Lismore’s sister cities in Japan), Italian, in recognition of the early

Project was created in 1955 and by 2023, over 250,000 peace poles have been placed around the world in nearly 200 countries.

Italian settlers in this area and Cambodian,

which recognises the club’s link to the Sustainable Cambodia Project through student sponsorship and village water and health upgrades. The original Peace Pole

Members of Summerland Sunrise Rotary Club with the newly erected peace pole in Riverside Park, Lismore.

100 years of CWA energy and support

when the branch was formed and a baby clinic established in the area.

It has been 100 years since the CWA Lismore branch started their good work in the area and members of the public are invited to join in the celebrations.

“On Monday, December 2 we are having a formal luncheon as that is the day the branch was offcially formed,” said Vicki Boyle, Lismore CWA’s Handy Craft Offcer.

“We will be having it at the Goonellabah Sports Club as we can’t ft everyone in our rooms.

“This will be a CWA event but the Saturday before (November 30th) we will be having a family fun day at Spinks Park, near our rooms.”

The family fun day will bring the community together with music and games and a fun day of dressing up.

The third event on the celebration agenda is the display in the pop up museum in Molesworth Street, where the Richmond River Historical Society currently have their rooms.

“We lost a lot of objects in the food,” said Vicki.

“But we have cobbled together a lot of photos and some objects that represent what we have done over the past 100 years.”

Many people may not be aware of the work the CWA has done in the Lismore community, but it started back in 1924

“The frst meeting convened as people were concerned about the death rate of mothers and babies in the rural areas,” said Vicki.

“It was the frst topic on Lismore’s agenda.

“Many mothers didn’t know how to breast feed or deal with childhood illnesses.

“The impetus for health services was the fact that some 60,000 children died during the First World War period, the same as the number of soldiers who died.

“It took some years and much hard work before the funds were raised for the building which was offcially opened in 1935.”

A news article in The Farmer and Settler newspaper in 1924 described the meeting:

There was a large gathering recently at the Masonic Hall, Lismore to hear Mrs RS Perdrian talk on the aims fo the CWA and the methods to be adopted to establish a baby clinic in Lismore.

It was not only a gathering of women, a great number of men… were present.

The work of the CWA continued from there.

“A library was established early on in our rooms with books donated by members and others for those living out of town as there was no municipal library,” said Vicki.

“Fund-raising by

selling handicrafts and food items were the traditional ways of making money to bolster the cost of local community projects, though the CWA is so much more than tea and scones.

“We still raise money this way, though times have changed radically since our beginnings.”

As an example, Vicki pointed out that the wool industry was supported in the 1930s as wool was an integral material in the handicrafts, in a time where synthetics were being developed.

“Items created from wool, especially clothing, were the mainstay of our handiwork competitions and sales on stalls,” she

said.

“Modern synthetics, easy-care clothing designs and ‘brand labels’ are favoured by an increasingly busy populace, so we need to re-assess our fundraising models and adapt, something the CWA is constantly doing.”

And adapt is what the CWA continued to do.

“During the second world war years, Lismore members made

camoufage nets six days a week out the front of our rooms,” said Vicki.

“Thousands of items such as socks, balaclavas, scarves and Anzac biscuits were made as ‘Comforts’ for the Red Cross to distribute to our serving personnel overseas and food parcels were sent to England.

“Lismore CWA took over the 1940 annual Floral Festival to fund-raise for soldier ‘Comforts’.

“We continued our involvement in this festival with other community organisations until it was disbanded in 1980.”

And so the work continues, as Lismore CWA reaches its centenary.

“We are strong supporters of the Lismore Music Festival, last year endowing (them) with a perpetual trophy in the dance section,” said Vicki.

“Large catering events such as the Annual Sportsman Award Ball and Lismore City Council’s Senior Citizens Christmas Party, with up to 600 attendees, were a major fund-raiser as was catering for local

weddings.

“Members cooked and delivered meals for isolated and elderly people in what later became the Meals on Wheels Service.”

Lismore CWA continues to support the local Helicopter Rescue Service, protesting loudly to government when this service was mooted to be cut.

“We also support the annual Lismore Show, vital in showcasing our region’s produce and talent and the maintenance and development of community networks,” said Vicki.

In 2016 an evening branch of Lismore CWA started up so working women could join and contribute.

To this day, the CWA’s little caravan Margi is a welcome sight at the Lismore Farmers’ Market every third Saturday and no Lismore Lantern Parade would be complete without their teapot lantern which can be seen in the current CWA Centenary Celebration exhibition at Lismore’s Pop Up Museum in Molesworth Street.

SAMANTHA ELLEY

Sometimes our voices are the only weapons we have, and silence can be the killer.

This is the message, in partnership with NSW Police, that Ballina-onRichmond Rotary wants to convey as they hold

this year’s Domestic & Family Violence Walk. It will be held on Friday, November 29, assembling at the Ballina Visitor Information Centre for a 1pm start.

The walk will then traverse along River and Cherry Streets to the Ballina Indoor Sports Centre and make sure

you wear purple.

Past president of Ballina-on-Richmond Rotary Club, David Harmon, says the work they have been doing to raise awareness is showing results, with an increase on policing lists of domestic violence callouts.

“People are feeling

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Time to be heard on domestic violence

Sometimes our voices are the only weapons we have, and silence can be the killer.

“We help promote the Love Bites program in schools about being respectful in relationships.

“The federal government has a campaign called “Stop it at the start” and our model links with that.”

heard, believed and empowered,” he said.

“If people don’t know about it, then it is hard to bring about change.”

Mr Harmon said the walk was about raising awareness and educating the next generation.

“It’s where Rotary are the voice of the community,” he said.

Mr Harmon said with 30,000 Rotarians and 1,300 clubs in Australia, they are committed to act on the domestic violence campaign for the next three years.

Inspector Nigel Howard of Ballina police said the relationship between them and Rotary was very important to continue raising awareness against domestic violence.

“It is very important that people report any cases,” he said.

“Whether you are involved or witnessed it amongst family or friends, we need to know so we can stop it.

“60% of police time involves domestic violence and it is a criminal offence.”

Inspector Howard said police have had a lot of training in the domestic violence realm and are able to help anyone involved with contacts and support.

If you or someone you know is involved in domestic violence call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732.

SAMANTHA ELLEY

The Future looks Bright Blue

When around 150 students gathered last week from various different high schools, they were there to take on new ideas as a new generation, on how to save the planet, especially our waterways.

Simone Roseler is the brains and founder behind the organisation Ocean Voices, which organised the Bright Blue Future Showcase held at Ballina Coast High School.

“We are passionate about giving young people the opportunity to see more and be more,” she said.

“We embrace education and encourage activism, so young people using their voice to let the world know they are present in the room, which is something that is quite often missing.

“We get excited about celebrating innovative ideas as solutions to some of our most challenging environmental issues and we want to give young people the best opportunities

for a healthy and thriving future through showcasing job and education pathways in the blue economy and beyond.”

Partnering with Southern Cross University, a number of experts were eager to share their knowledge, expertise and passion with the next generation at the event.

“It’s all about the mentoring aspect,” said Ms Roseler.

“This is a kind of way of putting mentoring on speed, as these are speed sessions.

“Climate conversations are happening with(in)

10 minutes and allowing a more intimate space to engage.”

Mentors and experts such as Professor Dirk Erler, Head of the Recirculate and Zero Waste programs at Southern Cross University, who was able to share insights on the importances of circular economies in marine environments.

Other topics included how technology can drive sustainability in marine industries, ocean cleanup, careers emerging in marine life, waste management, reducing plastic pollution and so much more.

Sixteen-year-old Monet Shortland has just started Year 12 at Mullumbimby High School and is part of the Ocean Voices Youth Collective.

Through the showcase she is keen to engage her peers on what they can do to save the environment.

“Today is to really just engage people and let them know what’s possible, what kind of jobs are out there that has to do with saving the environment and hopefully spark some ideas what they could do,” said Monet.

“This could turn into a passion project or start

up an entrepreneurial business.”

Chloe Jo “CJ” Dodson is a 16-year-old Year 10 student at Ballina Coast High School and is also part of the Ocean Voices Youth Collective.

“We really are passionate about letting everyone get the same information and know what’s actually effecting our environment,” she said.

“Not many kids my age can sit down and listen to an hour-long speech or presentation so what we are doing here is having groups of small interactive sessions for 5-10 minutes.

“It’s a really good way of captivating everyone and being engaged with it.

“Today is a way for getting our peers on the same page.”

Year 12 Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar student, Charlie Lipton is the sustainability prefect at her school and was very keen to come to the showcase.

“I am in charge of our sustainability group because I’ve done a lot of work in the past, like going with the school to the sustainability expo in Sydney,” she said.

“I want to get everyone into sustainability because everyone knows about it but because we’re kids no one really thinks we can do much.

“Obviously we can and we have our own initiatives, but it is baby steps.”

Charlie is keen to start an eco club and get ideas for her school.

“We have our compostable waste and we have all these gardens and put the fertiliser on them and we have animals, such as chickens and bees,” she said.

SAMANTHA ELLEY

Simone Roseler and Monet Shortland of Ocean Voices Youth Collective

Attentive students at the showcase

Professor Dirk Erler, Head of the Recirculate and Zero Waste programs at Southern Cross University

The Grafton glitterati will don their fnest on Friday night to celebrate the 140th anniversary of one of the city’s major icons.

Grafton’s Christ Church Cathedral turns 140 this year and a gala dinner has been organised to celebrate.

The church community has the added pleasure of welcoming back two recently signifcant fgures, former cathedral deans Dean Peter Catt and Bishop Richard Hurford.

Between them they will have a plentiful supply of anecdotes of their terms as Deans of the

Cathedral.

But they won’t be the only entertainment on the night in the nave of the cathedral.

The Clarence Valley Conservatorium String Quartet will provide the musical entertainment for the evening. And in between sets there will be fund raising games and activities to raise money for the maintenance of the church’s heritage buildings and ministerial activities.

The Dean of Christ Church Cathedral the Very Rev Naomi Cooke said she would like to see as many people

as possible there to celebrate the cathedral’s signifcant milestone,

“The 140th Anniversary Gala Dinner is an opportunity for us to commemorate this milestone and celebrate the rich history and bright future of Grafton Cathedral,” she said.

Rev Cooke said the cathedral would be transformed into a beautiful venue for the formal three-course dinner.

The evening would commence with hors d’oeuvres and sparkling wine on the beautiful Cathedral grounds, followed by guests being seated for dinner

in the grand setting of the Cathedral nave accompanied by the music of the string quartet.

The church has sought sponsorship of the event in three ways, seeking Tickets can be booked here: https:// events.humanitix.com/ grafton-cathedral-140thanniversary-formaldinner

“We are proud to have reached this milestone, and it would not have been possible without the support of the local community,” Rev Cooke said.

Glittering celebration for city icon

Grafton’s Christ Church Cathedral turns 140 this year and a gala dinner has been organised to celebrate.

to provide some background information for Friday.

It showed the cathedral was designed by John Horbury Hunt an architect controversial in his time, but who has some signifcant landmarks to his credit, including St Peter’s Cathedral in Armidale.

The completed cathedral building measures 50.5m in lengthy, 13.5m in width and rises to 18 metres at the top of the cross on its western end.

The builder was Paddy Robison who also made some of the stained glass windows in the building.

which have not been built.

The foundations were laid in stone calculated to be strong enough to bear the weight of the proposed structures.

The historical society included a chronology of the cathedral construction.

1874: Foundation stone laid June 24.

1880: Building of the cathedral commences.

1884: Cathedral opened and dedicated July 25.

1934: Foundation stone laid for second stage June 27.

1959: Cathedral is consecrated September 14.

1984: Centenary celebrations and restoration work complete.

2019: Further restoration work completed.

The Clarence River Historical Society has prepared a leafet

The cathedral was made from around half a million bricks and can hold 500 worshippers. It consists of the sanctuary, choir, transept and nave and the foundations have the capacity to hold a chapter house and spire,

2024: Final stages of restorations completed this month.

Rare Australian

Rare Australian

One of Grafton’s iconic landmarks, Christ Church Cathedral celebrates its 140 anniversary this year and will celebrate the milestone at a glittering gala dinner in the cathedral on Friday.

TIM HOWARD

Conduct submission waved through

The Clarence Valley Council’s input into a discussion paper aimed at improving behaviour in local government has been waved through, despite concerns some of its suggestions might be a “bit too 1984”.

At last Thursday’s council meeting the councillors endorsed the council’s submission Code of Conduct and Meeting Practice Framework Discussion Paper, but voted against some changes suggested by deputy mayor Cr Greg Clancy.

While happy overall with the document, he was concerned some of the suggestions included in the Mayoral Minute went too far and sought to amend the document by omitting some sentences.

Cr Clancy was concerned the submission should take a tougher stance to prevent lobby groups entering local government and including former general managers on privilege committee to investigate councillors was not a good idea.

He also said mandating attendance at Offce of Local Government training sessions for would-be councillors went too far.

Cr Clancy was also concerned with attempts to control dissemination of misinformation.

He said while he had concerns about disinformation in public forums, care was needed.

“I certainly don’t support dissemination of misinformation, because the problem is, who’s going to defne what that is,” he said.

But other councillors were not so worried.

Cr Peter Johnstone said while there could be objections on minor points, the submission was strong overall.

Cr Cristie Yager said the training she received as a new councillor had been excellent and would beneft all councillors.

Cr Lynne Cairns, who seconded Cr Clancy’s proposed amendment, questioned the mayor about a section of the submission about community dissatisfaction with the time taken and costs incurred to deal with complaints.

Cr Smith said that on many occasions the process to ensure compliance was unnecessarily complicated.

“To enforce compliance council must issue an order, he said.

“Following the issue of the order, if there’s still non-compliance, council then has to issue another notice.

“And then if there’s still non-compliance, we

have to take it through the court system.

It makes it a very long, arduous and costly process.

“And all we’re suggesting here is that councils be given more authority to enforce compliance in a much more effective manner.”

Councillors voted 7-2 against the amendment and then debated a foreshadowed motion from Cr Johnstone to endorse the submission.

Cr Clancy continued his opposition to it.

“I think some of these statements that are in that mayoral minute are a real concern, and I think councillors need to think about it, if they want to put their name to some of those statements,” he said.

“I think that it’s suggesting that lobby groups going to become an increased issue.

It’s talking about misinformation.

“Who’s going to decide what that is? To me, this sounds like 1984.”

The motivation for the submission came

from Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig described the current system as “fundamentally broken”.

“It is too open to weaponisation, with tit-for-tat complaints diverting critical council resources and ratepayer money from the things that matter most to communities,” Mr Hoenig said.

“The sheer volume of vexatious complaints being made is preventing the Offce of Local Government from focussing its attention on getting crooks out of the local government sector.

Mr Hoenig said the options in the discussion paper put the onus onto councils to address and resolve councillor misbehaviour rather than send matters to the state government or private investigators to fx.

“It also puts forward options to strengthen the role of the Offce of Local Government as the sector regulator, including expanded investigation powers for serious confict of interest breaches and the ability to issue penalty infringement notices,” he said.

“For far too long the system has been abused. It’s time to restore public confdence in councils and ensure the dignity of this vital third tier of government is upheld.”

The discussion paper can be viewed at https:// www.olg.nsw.gov.au/ councils/misconductand-intervention/ councillor-conductframework/

Public submissions closed on November 15, but the council was granted a deadline extension until November 29.

Byron’s Waverider Buoy Set for Return After Critical Repairs

IAN ROGERS

Byron Bay’s iconic yellow Waverider buoy, a crucial tool for monitoring real-time wave conditions, is set to be redeployed later this week after undergoing urgent repairs by coastal engineers from the Manly Hydraulics Laboratory (MHL). The repair timeline remains weather dependent.

The buoy has been offine since early November after its antenna was snapped, halting the transmission of live wave data vital to the North Coast region.

The disruption highlights the vulnerability of the buoy’s sensitive instruments, which can be damaged when recreational water users tether their boats or watercraft to it.

MHL is urging the community to avoid using the buoy as a mooring point and to maintain at least a 20-metre distance to protect the equipment. Damage not only impairs the buoy’s functionality but can also cause widespread loss of wave data relied on by water users, marine emergency services, and coastal management professionals.

Key Features of the Waverider Buoy

• Design: A 1m-diameter yellow spherical buoy equipped with radar refectors, a 1.5m white antenna, a light, and a black fag.

• Location: Moored about 10 km offshore from Byron Bay.

• Function: Uses an accelerometer to measure wave motion, producing data on wave height, period, and direction.

• Signifcance: Supports safety, navigation, coastal management, and climate change adaptation for the North Coast.

The buoy is one of seven Waveriders operated by MHL, monitoring a 2,000 km stretch of coastline from Byron Bay to Eden.

MHL has been providing real-time wave data for the NSW coast since 1974 and specifcally for the Byron Bay region since 1976.

A Reminder for the Community MHL Director Edward Couriel emphasized the buoy’s importance, stating, “Our wave buoys have been operating in NSW for over 50 years, offering invaluable data for everyone from surfers to emergency services. Repairing and redeploying them is complex and weather dependent. We urge locals to keep their distance and avoid contact to prevent further disruptions to this critical service.”

Real-time wave data from MHL’s network can be accessed at MHL’s website.

Looking Ahead

Pending favourable conditions, the repaired buoy will soon resume its role as the “live and listening ear” to the ocean, restoring a vital resource for water users and professionals managing NSW’s dynamic coastline.

Clarence Valley Mayor Ray Smith’s mayoral minute containing a submission to a state government discussion paper looking at how local government conducts itself was endorsed at the last council meeting.

TIM HOWARD

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New councillor on GM performance panel

TIM HOWARD

Who would have thought picking a panel to assess a general manager’s performance could be so diffcult.

Last week Clarence Valley Council turned a formality into performance art as it looked to appoint a panel to for its annual inspection of general manager Laura Black’s performance.

The council policy is the mayor and deputy mayor are automatic picks. Council selects one of its number and the general manager picks another.

The panel of four, with an independent chair, go through set criteria and assess how well the GM has met the targets set. It looks straight forward in theory, but in practice it has proved anything but.

A year ago the mayor at the time, Cr Peter Johnstone, deputy Jeff Smith, the council’s pick Karen Toms and GM pick Cr Debrah Novak met.

They measured her performance against targets set and agreed she

had exceeded them in a number of cases.

But when the results came back to council in a mayoral minute to an extraordinary council meeting in February this year, they included a recommendation of a 2% pay rise for the GM on top of her $342,696.93 annual salary.

Unsurprisingly, in a cost of living crisis, this ruling sparked some protest and led eventually to some spectacular debate, including an allegation of a group of councillors, “out to get” the general manager during an ultimately unsuccessful rescission motion to overturn the pay rise.

And in 2023 when the panel met, deputy mayor Greg Clancy made headlines when he walked out of a panel meeting, unhappy with the process involved.

So it came as no surprise last Thursday when the item kicked off with a motion from Cr Debrah Novak seeking to ditch the deputy mayor, Cr Clancy, from this year’s panel to give councillors the

opportunity to elect two councillors to go on the panel.

There was a question over the legality of the motion, but Ms Black said it was lawful, although it needed to identify itself as a departure from council policy.

Cr Novak adjusted her motion accordingly and also pointed out that the council’s gender equity guidelines also dictated at least one of those selected should be a woman.

While the councillors were deadly serious in their debate, people looking on from the gallery could see the funny side, prompting Cr Whaites to call on the mayor for help.

“Can you please ask the public to not mention, not laugh and not giggle at us, please,” she asked of Cr Smith.

Cr Novak said the council policy was just a guideline and to allow council to pick two members in addition to the general manager’s pick was “ft for purpose”.

Cr Clancy did not agree. Tongue in cheek, he thanked Cr Novak for “sparing him the stress” of sitting on the panel, but thought that her motion was a “direct attack on me”.

Cr Novak called a point of order and Mayor Smith ruled in her favour.

Cr Clancy tried again, claiming he had been targeted.

Again Cr Novak called a point of order, claiming an implication that Cr Clancy was “reading her mind”.

Again the mayor upheld the point of order.

Cr Clancy said Cr Novak needed to explain her reasons for bringing the motion, because it was easy to interpret it as targeting him.

Another point of order. Unable to pursue this line, Cr Clancy agreed to withdraw his claim of being targeted, but said it created a “very bad precedent” and council should stick to its policies.

Cr Johnstone agreed,

a panel meeting when he was deputy mayor.

This sparked another point of order, this time from Cr Clancy.

Cr Alison Whaites backed Cr Novak’s motion.

She was disappointed with the way the panel had been handled before and didn’t want a repeat of what happened last term in this term.

She said it was

pointing out the policies had been developed to cover all eventualities and take the heat out of situations.

Cr Toms was also against making changes, but could “understand where it came from” considering Cr Clancy’s criticism of the performance review panel in the past.

She was concerned Cr Clancy had described being on the panel as “a poison chalice” and that he had “stormed out” of

important to throw open the opportunity to be on the performance review panel to more councillors.

Cr Johnstone asked if Cr Clancy was happy to be on the panel.

He replied he was but it was diffcult, but it was his duty as deputy mayor to sit on the panel, even if it was a “poison chalice”.

In her right of reply Cr Novak raised an issue that breached the privacy of a councillor and quickly apologised for her mistake after a point

of order was called. She said her motivation was to give more councillors the opportunity to get onto the performance review panel.

The council did not agree and voted it down. Councillors voted on a foreshadowed motion from Cr Johnstone, to revert to the usual selection process, which was adopted.

Then came the nominations for the panel.

Cr Johnstone picked Cr Cristie Yager.

Cr Shane Causley nominated Cr Karen Toms and Cr Novak nominated Cr Whaites.

During debate on Cr Yager’s nomination Cr Whaites said while Cr Yager would be an “asset” to the panel, she did not possess the experience of either Cr Toms or herself.

“I’ve done multiple performance reviews, and I think I probably am the most, the best one here actually, out of all us councillors, and second would be Cr Toms,” she said.

Cr Yager spoke “for myself” and said she would maintain an open mind.

“I think I’m very good at being open minded to all information given to me, and I’m always open to persuasion given the facts,” she said.

Mayor Smith put her nomination to the vote and she was elected fve votes to four.

The general manager has yet to name the councillor she would like on the panel.

One of the newly-elected councillors, Cr Cristie Yager, will be the councillors’ pick on the Clarence Valley Council general manager’s performance review panel.

Cr Greg Clancy survived an attempt to change council policy to have him dropped as an automatic pick on the general manager’s performance review panel. He has been a critic of the way the panel operates.

Clarence Valley Council general manager Laura Black has yet to reveal which councillor she would like to see on the panel evaluating her performance.

Christmas Stocking Fillers

This year Art Post Uki offers a special range of Christmas Stocking Fillers with their Holiday show. Fabulous affordable art ready in time for Christmas!

Delightful small works that are sure to delight in time for the season.

Fourteen local artists who have previously exhibited at Art Post have contributed two works each for this special event. Works will be sold straight off the wall until December 23 so that they can be taken away immediately and

be ready for gifting on Christmas Day. Artworks will be replaced as they sell so there will be no empty spaces.

Works in the exhibition will include something for every artistic interest – from exquisite traditional

landscapes to knock out abstractions; images of animals and plants in richly imagined paint and pattern; brilliant Australian colour and light caught forever in glass mosaics; botanicals painted on clay; water colours capturing gentle

moments; expressive fgure drawing; delicate jewellery crafted from ancient elements.

Artists exhibiting are: Katherine Carson; Katherine Cleland; Marion Douglas; Funky Bunny (Lisa Robertson); Heather Matthew;

Lucky Dip

items of jewellery and gift vouchers

Heather McClelland; Christine Mellor; Roslyn Oakes; Christine Robinson; Marie-France Rose; Jenny Sayer; Ellee Sibley; Diana White; Tina Wilson.

CHRISTMAS STOCKING FILLERS will be on display from Thursday November 28th at the Uki Post Offce. The opening will be at 6pm Thursday November 28th

Tweed tap water passes PFAS safety testing with fying colours

Water Laboratory Services for independent testing.

Independent laboratory testing has confrmed that tap water in the Tweed Shire remains safe to drink and is well below both current and proposed limits for PFAS (per- and polyfuoroalkyl substances), as outlined by the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines (ADWG).

This testing, conducted in October 2024, followed a recommendation by NSW Health for all water authorities in the state to test for PFAS levels in treated drinking water.

Rigorous Testing

Across Tweed’s Water Systems

Samples were collected by trained Tweed Shire Council staff from the region’s three water supply systems:

1. Tweed District (Bray Park Water Treatment Plant)

2. Uki village

3. Tyalgum village

The samples were sent to the accredited Sydney

Results Overview

Council’s Manager of Water and Wastewater Operations, Brie Jowett,

detectable limit).

o ADWG limit: 560 ng/L.

• PFOS and PFHxS:

low and well within expected safety standards.

Safe Now and Into the Future

Tweed’s tap water would remain safe even if these stricter guidelines are introduced.

Australia but are present in many industrial and consumer products, such as:

The National Health and Medical Research

“The Tweed’s tap water is currently safe to drink and will continue to

confrmed that the testing showed undetectable or extremely low levels of key PFAS substances:

• PFOA:

o Measured at 0.1 ng/L in Tweed District systems.

o Below 0.1 ng/L in Uki and Tyalgum systems (minimum

o Below 0.1 ng/L (minimum detectable limit) across all systems.

o ADWG limit: 70 ng/L.

• PFBS:

o Found at levels below 0.5 ng/L (minimum detectable limit).

o No current ADWG limit, but the levels are considered very

Council (NHMRC) is currently reviewing the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines, with proposed lower limits for PFAS substances and a new guideline for PFBS expected to be fnalized in 2025.

Ms. Jowett assured the community that

be safe under the draft Australian Drinking Water Guidelines. These results highlight our commitment to providing safe, healthy water for the long term.”

About PFAS PFAS substances, used globally since the 1950s, are not manufactured in

• Firefghting foams

• Pesticides and fertilizers

• Carpets and paints

• Non-stick cookware and food packaging

• Clothing and personal care products like sunscreen and make-up

While PFAS is not added to drinking water, trace amounts may enter water sources due to environmental contamination.

Stay Informed

For more information on Tweed’s water quality, testing processes, and PFAS results, visit:

• Tweed Shire Council: Drinking Water Quality - For updates on Australian Drinking Water Guidelines, visit:

• NHMRC: Australian Drinking Water Guidelines - Tweed Shire Council continues to prioritize water safety, ensuring residents enjoy clean and safe drinking water now and into the future.

Last seen 12 th of September 2024 in the Afternoon around 3pm. Missing from Mullumbimby near theShowgrounds. Last seen on Riverside Drive and Main Arm Rd near the Showgrounds.

ROBERT HEYWARD

Independent testing has confrmed the Tweed’s tap water is safe to drink with negligible PFAS levels detected.

Applications Open for New Early Childhood Places in Tenterfeld

ROBERT HEYWARD

Janelle Saffn, Member for Lismore, is encouraging local early childhood education and care providers in Tenterfeld to apply for funding under the Minns Labor Government’s $20 million Building Early Learning Places Program. The initiative aims to address the critical need for more early childhood education spaces in regional communities.

Supporting Families in Tenterfeld

“Families in communities like Tenterfeld need greater access to local preschools and long daycare centres,” Ms. Saffn said.

“I strongly encourage local providers who are ready to start construction within the next 12 months to apply for funding to build new services or expand existing ones.”

This program is part of the Minns Government’s broader strategy to support local businesses that provide vital care and education for children in their formative years.

Building Early Learning Places Program Highlights

The initiative will deliver signifcant benefts for communities across NSW, including:

• Accelerating the construction of new services and expanding existing facilities in 31 targeted areas, including Tenterfeld.

• Prioritizing notfor-proft community preschools, long daycare centres, and services delivered by Aboriginal Community Controlled

Organisations (ACCOs).

• Creating at least 300 additional weekly places for children aged 0 to 6 in areas with a shortage of early childhood education and care services.

Complementary Government Measures

This program is part of a comprehensive suite of policies introduced by the Minns Government to ensure access to affordable and high-quality early childhood education. Key initiatives include:

• $430 million in preschool fee relief for families in 2024-25.

• A $20 million Flexible Initiatives Trial, allowing services to trial innovative solutions like weekend hours and fexible drop-off and pick-up times.

• $17 million in scholarships and professional development, increasing the pipeline of early childhood educators and teachers.

• $5 million for the Business Capability Development Program, supporting early childhood providers in improving their operational skills. How to Apply Local providers interested in creating or expanding early childhood education places can fnd more information and application details on the NSW Department of Education website: www. education.nsw.gov.au/ BuildingEarly LearningPlaces. Applications are open now, and eligible providers are encouraged to act quickly to secure funding and help give children in Tenterfeld and other targeted areas the best start to their education.

Norco Launches Minecraft-Themed Flavoured Milks to Power Gamers Across Australia

ROBERT HEYWARD

Minecraft fans have a new way to fuel their gaming adventures with the launch of Norco’s Minecraft-inspired favoured milks. Created by Norco Co-operative, Australia’s oldest dairy co-operative, this exciting range combines the blocky world of Minecraft with nutritious and delicious favoured milk, perfect for players’ inventory.

Fuelling Biome Adventures with Minecraft Flavours

The Norco x Minecraft favoured milk range features four lactosefree, no-added-sugar varieties in a convenient 375ml size, ideal for sustaining gamers through long sessions of building, battling mobs, and exploring.

• Choc Charger: The ultimate choice to sustain biome adventures, fend off Creepers, Wither Skeletons, and Silverfsh, and stay sharp while exploring the Nether.

• Lime Lightning:

Dear Editor

I have been doing business in the Northern Rivers for more than 20 years.

Naturally, I advertise.

I have tried all different ways, including billboards, radio, TV

As we celebrate this festive season, let’s come together to suppor t our local businesses and the wonder ful people behind them.

By shopping locally, we not only find unique gif ts but also strengthen our community and keep our region thriving. This Christmas, I encourage you to visit a nearby shop or market and help spread the holiday spirit.

A zesty pick-me-up for gamers needing to restore energy after taking on mobs like Zombies and Spiders.

• Strawberry Slam: Sweet and refreshing, this favour is perfect for replenishing health bars after intense gameplay.

• Caramel Chug: The snack of choice when teleporting to the kitchen feels as arduous as returning to basecamp for food.

A Partnership Built in Block Heaven

Ben Menzies, Norco General Manager of Commercial and Strategy, expressed excitement over the collaboration:

“Norco shares with Minecraft a mission to build a better world—

and more recently social media.

This creates temporary brand awareness, but the problem is that it is temporary.

When I advertise in a local newspaper, it sits on a family coffee table for a week and provides

ours through sustainable dairy production, and theirs through creativity and innovation in the gaming space. We hope Minecraft fans enjoy exploring the world of favour we’ve created.”

Norco’s Minecraft range not only delights gamers but also reinforces milk’s nutritional value. These drinks provide hydration, high protein, calcium, vitamin B12, and natural electrolytes, all with Norco’s awardwinning lactose-free touch.

Available Nationwide

This November

The Norco x Minecraft favoured milk range is available at Woolworths, Coles, and independent supermarkets for an

customers direct information to secure my product or service.

Our local newspapers have very high-quality local news content.

They are read cover to cover so your ad will not be missed. They are doing it

RRP of $3.60. Each drink boasts a four-star health rating and combines wholesome dairy goodness with gamer-focused fun. More Minecraft Dairy Treats Coming Soon Gamers can also look forward to Minecraftinspired ice cream favours, set to launch early next year, bringing even more excitement to their culinary inventory. Whether you’re battling the Ender Dragon, exploring new biomes, or simply teleporting to the kitchen for a snack, Norco’s Minecraft range is here to power your adventures in the world of blocks.

pretty tough right now, so you’ll be able to negotiate a great deal. Do yourself, your staff, your customers and your community a favour.

Advertise local this Christmas.

- Murray Lees

Authorised by Richie Williamson. Funded using parliamentar y entitlements.

Richie Williamson pays a visit to Evans Head small business operator, Caroline Powell.

NSW Country Mayors Association Welcomes New Leadership and Sets Advocacy Agenda

(Singleton Council)

The Country Mayors Association of NSW (CMA) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) at NSW Parliament House, where close to 150 delegates, including Mayors and General Managers, convened to elect new leadership and address critical challenges faced by rural and regional councils across the state.

New Leadership Team

Elected for 2024-2026

The AGM saw the election of a diverse and experienced leadership team to represent the interests of rural and regional councils:

Chairman:

• Cr. Rick Firman

OAM (Mayor of Temora Shire Council), elected unopposed, succeeds a legacy of strong leaders, including Jamie Chaffey (Gunnedah), Ken Keith OAM (Parkes), and Katrina Humphries (Moree Plains).

Deputy Chairman:

• Cr. Russell Fitzpatrick (Mayor of Bega Valley Shire Council), narrowly defeating Cr. Sam Coupland (Armidale Regional Council).

Executive Board

Members:

1. Cr. Phyllis Miller

OAM (Forbes Shire Council)

2. Cr. Sam Coupland (Armidale Regional Council)

3. Cr. John Medcalf OAM (Lachlan Shire Council)

4. Cr. Sue Moore

5. Cr. Josh Black (Dubbo Regional Council)

6. Cr. Russell Webb (Tamworth Regional Council)

7. Cr. Sharon Cadwallader (Ballina Shire Council)

The team will serve for a two-year term. A motion was also passed to allow the next highestranking candidate to fll any mid-term vacancy on the Board.

Chairman’s Vision and Priorities

Cr. Rick Firman, a seasoned local government leader, shared his priorities for the CMA’s agenda:

• Financial Sustainability: Identifed as the most pressing issue, particularly the impact of depreciation costs on council budgets due to non-realisable asset values, such as Rural Fire Service

vehicles.

• Housing: Addressing the housing crisis in rural and regional areas to ensure community growth and sustainability.

• Rural Crime and Health: Collaborating with state authorities to improve safety and healthcare services in remote communities.

• Roads, Transport, and Connectivity: Advocating for infrastructure investment to connect and support regional economies.

• Skills Shortages: Developing strategies to attract and retain skilled workers in rural areas.

Cr. Firman emphasized the importance of collaboration.

“In rural and regional councils, we’re not party political. We work beside everyone and anyone to achieve the best outcomes for our communities, which we

hold so dear,” he said. Insights from Key Stakeholders

The AGM featured presentations from key state leaders:

• Hon. Mark Speakman MP (NSW Opposition Leader)

• Hon. Steve Whan MP (Minister for Skills, TAFE, and Tertiary Education)

• Hon. Jenny Aitchison MP (Minister for Regional Transport and Roads)

Discussions centred on fnancial constraints, the need for policy reform, and ways to address issues like the depreciation of non-realisable assets and inadequate planning tools for councils.

Pre-AGM Dinner with Local Government Minister

The evening before the AGM, a special dinner was held with Hon. Ron Hoenig MP,

Minister for Local Government, attended by 112 delegates. Minister Hoenig provided a frank presentation, addressing key frustrations:

• Depreciation Costs:

He acknowledged the adverse impacts of asset depreciation on council fnancials, particularly for “Red Fleet” Rural Fire Service vehicles.

• Integrated Planning and Reporting (IP&R):

The Minister agreed that current IP&R requirements fail to serve as effective management tools for councils.

• Council Employment Practices: He expressed a desire to reverse the outsourcing trend and make councils preferred employers in local communities.

Cr. Firman praised the Minister’s collaborative approach, stating.

“While the complexities of existing policies are not a quick

fx, Minister Hoenig is working with the Auditor-General to address these burdens, which gives us hope.”

Looking Ahead

The CMA’s focus remains on advocacy and delivering outcomes for rural and regional communities. Among its initiatives:

• Hosting Premier Chris Minns as a guest speaker in 2025 to strengthen dialogue with state leadership.

• Continuing to engage with stakeholders and industry experts to identify actionable solutions to shared challenges.

The AGM also reaffrmed the roles of:

• Gary Fry as CMA Secretariat (Regional Development Australia Northern Inland).

• Melissa Boxall, General Manager of Temora Shire Council, as CMA Secretary.

Chairman’s Commitment Cr. Firman concluded the meeting with optimism.

“We’re excited about the term ahead. There’s a lot of work to do, but our dedicated team is up for the challenge. Together, we’ll strive for solutions to improve the quality of life for the people of rural and regional NSW.”

With a strong leadership team and a clear agenda, the Country Mayors Association is poised to drive meaningful change for the communities it represents.

Call for Entries: Clarence Impressions Community Exhibition

IAN ROGERS

The Grafton Regional Gallery is excited to announce Clarence Impressions, a new community exhibition celebrating the stunning landscapes, vibrant people, and unique places of the Clarence Valley. Inspired by the iconic ‘9 by 5 Impression Exhibition’ held in Melbourne in 1889, this showcase

invites artists from the Northern Rivers region to share their creative interpretations of the Clarence Valley.

Entry Details

Artists are encouraged to submit a 230 x 130mm (9 x 5”) artwork in landscape or portrait format. Both 2D and 3D works are welcome, provided they ft within the specifed size format (230 x 130mm base).

Accepted mediums include:

• Painting

• Drawing

• Textile

• Mixed Media

Free Canvas Boards

Canvas boards in the required size are available free of charge from:

• Grafton Regional Gallery Reception Desk

• Iluka Emporium

• Maclean Framing & Gallery

Artists may also create their own boards adhering to the size

specifcations.

Eligibility

Artists must reside in one of the following LGAs:

• Clarence Valley

• Byron

• Lismore

• Tweed

• Richmond Valley

• Kyogle

• Ballina

How to Enter

To participate, collect an entry form from:

• The Grafton Regional Gallery Reception Desk

• Iluka Emporium

• Maclean Framing & Gallery

• Grafton Regional Gallery’s website

Submission Deadline Entries close at 2pm on Sunday, 2 February 2025.

Exhibition Details

Selected works will be featured in the Clarence Impressions exhibition at the Grafton Regional Gallery:

• Dates: Saturday, 22 February – Sunday, 27

April 2025

This is a unique opportunity to showcase your artistic vision while celebrating the natural and cultural richness of the Clarence Valley.

For more information, visit the Grafton Regional Gallery’s website or contact their team directly.

Don’t miss your chance to contribute to this inspiring community project!

ROBERT HEYWARD

The CMA Executive Board elected on 15 Nov. 2024 for a two-year-term: L-R Councillors Josh Black, Sharon Cadwallader, Phyllis Miller OAM, Rick Firman OAM, Russell Fitzpatrick and John Medcalf [absent: Mayors Sue Moore and Sam Coupland].

Resilient Kids Program Marks One Year of Supporting Northern Rivers Youth

JEFF GIBBS

This week, the Resilient Kids program celebrates its one-year anniversary, having supported the health and wellbeing of more than 5,300 children and young people in the Northern Rivers region since its launch

2,030 participants

A Collaborative Effort

Funded by a $10 million grant from the Australian Government’s National Emergency Management Agency, Resilient Kids is delivered by Social Futures in partnership with The Family Centre and Human Nature Therapy, with Lives

the program’s positive impact but emphasized the ongoing need for disaster recovery initiatives.

“Our team has seen Resilient Kids make a signifcant difference in the mental health and wellbeing of thousands of young participants. But recovery is complex

in November 2023. Established in the wake of the 2022 foods, the program has provided vital resources to help young people recover from trauma, build resilience, and improve social and emotional wellbeing.

Impact Highlights

Since its inception,

Lived Well joining in 2024 to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth.

Monika Wheeler, CEO of Healthy North Coast, highlighted the program’s success in tailoring support to young people’s diverse needs.

“What’s made Resilient

Resilient Kids has delivered:

• School-based workshops for 2,551 participants

• Individual or group therapy for 568 young people (including counselling, therapeutic groups, and socialemotional wellbeing programs)

• Community connection events for

Kids so successful is the range of supports available, from schoolbased programs to one-on-one counselling. By working with local service providers, we’re tapping into their expertise and reaching even more young people in our communities,” Ms. Wheeler said.

Tony Davies, CEO of Social Futures, praised

Diary of a Flood Survivor

Last week I gave preview of our front door being replaced. Well, it didn’t happen thanks to the week of wet weather we had.

and personal items were destroyed.

‘we are here, and we aren’t going anywhere.’

and takes time,” Mr. Davies said. Designed with the Community in Mind The program was co-designed by Healthy North Coast in collaboration with children, families, schools, and service providers. Insights from a Resilience Survey, completed by 6,611 young people from 75 schools, informed innovative activities like a surfboard shaping group and an art project at Nimbin Central School.

Looking Ahead

Resilient Kids will continue through June 2025, with ongoing evaluations to ensure it meets the evolving needs of the Northern Rivers youth. The program aims to strengthen the next generation’s resilience and wellbeing while reducing the long-term mental health impacts of climate-related disasters. For more information, visit: socialfutures.org.au/ resilient-kids hnc.org.au/resilientkids

But, hey, we’ve waited this long, another week isn’t going to break us. In fact, a whole freaking recordbreaking food didn’t break us, and I think sometimes we have to stop and really celebrate the strength, not just of ourselves, but our communities as a whole.

Throughout the Northern Rivers, many community, commercial

And while there may have been moments of frustration, anger, many tears and tantrums where we wanted to give up entirely, we are still here, or we have found a way to cope.

I mentioned in a previous column that exciting things were happening where a church had reopened, and a new coffee shop and brewery had been established.

These are more than just exciting.

These are statements of strength, of saying

Yes, we know we will face more bad weather, but that’s exactly what we will do. We will face it.

So, in the great scheme of things, our front door is just another little step on the road to recovery and we have covered many little steps along this food-damaged road.

Good news, the door was put in place before deadline, so here are the before and after photos. Little steps.

“

has views on just about anything”

A BLACK CAT on BLACK FRIDAY

‘Leemo Cat’ back. What’s this ‘Black Friday’ stu all about? I pondered whether it came ‘cos of the bleak weather we’re having or is there a plague on Friday? I’ve heard & seen the words ‘Black Friday’ heaps lately by shops & other places on our TV & radio & even the newspapers telling us to ‘rush in quick’ for a bargain ‘cos ‘Black Friday’ is coming. Do we go & buy Plague? Eeeek! Hmmm? I will need to speak to the ageing one, ‘Mum Jane’. ‘Mum, what does all this ‘Black Friday’ stu really mean, explain please!’

Crikey, she spoke quite politely; BUT (as usual) with a string attached! ‘Leems, I’m no expert; I’ll just give this mango chutney a last stir & if you make me tea & biks I’ll tell you what I reckon Black Friday is about based on what I’ve read. Hmmm, OK!!’ Between noisy slurps Mum said that ‘lotsa people think the term Black Friday nds its meaning in the sense of ‘showing much pro t; but not showing any losses.’ is is not the reality. In history, ‘Black’ has been associated with times of economic stress & distress instead of booming $$$ related success’ (OMG, as a cat, how am I supposed to interpret such a silly ridiculous answer?)

I demanded a ‘feline friendly elucidation.’

‘Righto my boy. e very rst Black Friday occurred in 1869 a er a very rich bloke, Jay Gould and his buddy James Fisk (also very rich) tried to “corner” the gold market. Now

Leems, listen properly; ‘cornering’ a market (be it gold, cat food or my fave. NZ Ice Cream, Kapiti) means BUYING ALL OF IT UP so there’s none le over for anyone else. For instance, if every single can of your favourite food ‘Sou e with Beef & Spring Veges’ got bought up by the owners of your buddie ‘Brutus’ what would you do?’ e Scots would say ‘Aye, it’s a Dreich Day.’ What would YOU say Leems knowing there was none le for you?’ Ooooh… the horror sent me dizzy.

‘Well Mum, I would ask ‘Brutus’ to sell me some of his supplies I ‘spose.’

‘Ha, Leems, ‘Brutus’ a canny feline like yourself, MAY agree but instead of $1 for a wee can, he could charge $4 knowing you can’t get it anywhere else so you’d end up in nasty pawsy-cu s. And if you think I’m lending you $ in this eventuality you’re SO SO wrong. AND, Leems, when Mr Gould & Mr Fisk tried to buy up (‘corner’) ALL the gold they could get their paws on, it lead to nancial panic, sty cu s & angry upset people, plus the collapse of the stock market. THEN in October 1929, another stock market crash occurred for akin reasons; it was known as Black TUESDAY & marked the start of the Great Depression. So, if I were you I’d turn blind ears & eyes to anything advertising el cheapie feline food, blankies, toys, scratching poles or whatever else you frivolously WANT in an incorrectly named ‘Black Friday’ Bargain. (Mon, Wed or ANY day for that matter.) In other words, it’s a ploy by cunning sales people to get aged us Pensioners to part with our meagre savings, playing on our emotions ‘cos we love our cats. SO Leems, NO Black Friday shopping!’ Crikey! I reckon Mum does love me but what about my Sou e treats? Mum interrupted my thoughts by glaring. ‘Leems, if the worst happens, it’s back to ‘Home Brand’ for you, served with much love!’ Aaaargh. I’m outta here to suck-up to ‘Brutus’. Hopeful purrsies, Leemo.

Adopt a Family

Leemo

Farmers and Small Businesses Face Liquidity Crisis Under Proposed ‘Super Tax’

Farmers and small business owners across Australia have expressed outrage after Agriculture and Small Business Minister

Julie Collins confrmed in Parliament that proposed changes to superannuation could result in a tax on unrealised gains, even during years of zero or negative income.

The response has intensifed fears among farming families and small business owners, many of whom could face liquidity issues forcing the sale of family farms and assets.

NFF Warns of Dire Consequences

Charlie Thomas, Deputy CEO of the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF), criticized the government’s plan, highlighting the detrimental impact on generational farming.

“The farm sector has consistently warned that taxing unrealised gains will create impossible situations for farmers. They might be forced to sell their assets or breach liquidity requirements just to meet theoretical tax obligations,” Thomas said.

He added, “Taxing farmers for property market fuctuations is an absurd precedent. It has no place in a fair and equitable tax system.”

Impact on Small Business Owners

The Council of Small Business Associations of Australia (COSBOA) echoed these concerns, pointing out the widespread implications for small and familyowned businesses.

Luke Achterstraat, CEO of COSBOA, described the policy as devastating:

“This tax will create a fnancial burden that could exceed a business owner’s annual income, leaving families with no choice but to sell their assets or impose unsustainable costs on the next generation.”

Achterstraat also challenged the government’s narrative:

“The Government claims this Bill targets ultra-wealthy individuals with super balances in the hundreds of millions, but today’s comments from the Minister make it clear that it will hit hard-working families and small businesses instead.”

Key Concerns Raised by Industry Leaders:

1. Liquidity Requirements: Farmers with self-managed superannuation funds (SMSFs) may be forced to sell family assets to maintain liquidity for tax obligations.

2. Generational Impact: Increased lease rates or forced asset sales could render the next generation’s businesses unviable.

3. Unrealised Gains: Taxing assets based on property market

fuctuations sets a dangerous precedent, undermining the stability of long-term investments.

4. Contradictory Messaging: The government’s claim that the policy targets the “top end of town” is contradicted by its real-world impact on ordinary Australians.

A Call for Reconsideration

Industry leaders and representatives have called on the government to reconsider the proposed legislation and its potential consequences.

“This policy risks destroying the livelihoods of family farmers and small business owners who form the backbone of our economy,” said Thomas. “We need a tax system that supports—not penalizes—generational businesses and rural communities.”

Next Steps

The proposed changes are likely to face further scrutiny as advocacy groups, industry representatives, and affected families urge the government to provide clarity and protect the interests of everyday Australians.

For small business owners and farmers seeking advice, industry groups such as the NFF and COSBOA recommend consulting with fnancial advisors to assess potential impacts and plan ahead.

Clean out your household chemicals for FREE this summer

You can take household problem wastes including paint, batteries, oils, gas bottles and fluoro lights to your local Community Recycling Centre all year round, but for 2 days this December you can also safely dispose of household chemicals for free at 2 regional locations. There’s never been a better time to get rid of unwanted or out-of-date stuff from your shed including pool, garden and hobby chemicals, household cleaners, and even poisons. It’s a free service that will help you

prepare your home for the summer season by reducing the risks that hazardous chemicals can present to your family and property, especially in emergencies such as cyclones, floods and fires. So don’t miss out! Add these Chemical Cleanout event dates to your calendar: ~ Saturday 7th December at the Nammooona Waste Facility, Dargaville Drive, Casino ~ Sunday 8th December at the Lismore Recycling and Recovery Centre, 313 Wyrallah Road, East

Lismore.

Both events run from 9am to 3pm and are free for all Northern Rivers residents. You can bring paints - up to 100L (in 20L containers), batteries - up to 10kg, other household problem waste and chemicals - up to 20L or 20kg per waste type.

For more information you can contact Lismore Council ph. 6625 0500 or Richmond Valley Council ph. 6662 6580 or visit newaste.org.au/crc

This project is proudly funded by the NSW government.

Advertorial

Household chemicals dropped off at Cleanout event being sorted for safe transport and disposal.

IAN ROGERS

JEFF GIBBS

Flood Repairs Begin on Fawcetts Plain Road

completed by March 2025.

Relief is on the horizon for motorists using Fawcetts Plain Road, with major food repairs set to commence soon.

Kyogle Council has secured $2.05 million in funding under the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements to restore the 8.3km road and make critical drainage improvements. The road sustained signifcant damage during the 2022 food event, with conditions worsening over time despite Council’s ongoing patchwork repairs while awaiting funding approval. Comprehensive Repairs and Timeline

The project, which also includes repairs to Green Pigeon Road and Horseshoe Creek Road, is slated to begin in early December and, weather permitting, should be

JEFF GIBBS

How to Keep Your Pets Safe from Holiday Decoration Hazards

As Christmas approaches, the excitement of decorating for the holidays brings joy to many households. However, for pet owners, the festive season also introduces potential dangers for curious pets who might see shiny ornaments, twinkling lights, and dangling decorations as irresistible toys or snacks. Pet Insurance Australia (PIA) is raising awareness about these risks and offering essential tips to prevent accidents, ensuring a safe and happy holiday season for both pets and their families. Understanding the Risks: Holiday Hazards for Pets

Christmas decorations, while beautiful, can pose serious threats to pets. Dogs and cats, driven by curiosity, are often tempted to chew or play with items that can result in choking,

Kyogle Council Mayor Danielle Mulholland expressed her relief and gratitude for the funding approval.

“Residents have been

waiting for quite some time for this news. It’s great that Council can now get on with the job of fxing the road,” she said.

Work Staging to Minimize Disruption

To ensure effciency and protect newly repaired sections, Council has scheduled work as follows:

1. Green Pigeon and Horseshoe Creek Roads will be addressed frst to

avoid heavy construction vehicles traveling over the freshly repaired Fawcetts Plain Road.

2. Following the completion of these roads, Council crews will focus on Fawcetts

Deck the Hall – But Watch the Paws!

ingestion, or injury.

Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia explains, “Dogs are notorious for eating things they shouldn’t, and during the holiday season, the risk increases signifcantly. Cats, too, are drawn to shiny tinsel and ornaments, which can lead to blockages or entanglement.”

According to the 2024 PetSure Health Monitor, the average treatment cost for foreign body or toxin ingestion can reach $1,064 without surgery, while surgical cases have gone as high as $41,671. These unexpected costs can create immense stress for families, especially during the holiday season when expenses are already high.

Which Pets Are Most at Risk?

Data from PIA Claims 2023-24 shows the dog breeds most at risk for ingestion-related incidents include:

1. Miniature Dachshunds

2. Groodles (Golden Doodles)

3. Golden Retrievers

4. Cocker Spaniels

5. Labradors

These breeds are particularly vulnerable due to their curious and scavenging tendencies, making it essential for their owners to remain vigilant.

Top Tips for a Safe and Merry Christmas with Pets

1. Choose PetFriendly Decorations

• Opt for shatterproof ornaments and avoid using tinsel, which can cause dangerous blockages if ingested.

• Avoid ribbons, bells, or small decorations that pose choking hazards.

2. Secure the

Christmas Tree

• Anchor your tree to prevent tipping and keep breakable ornaments out of paw’s reach.

• Use a pet-proof tree skirt to block access to tree water, which may contain harmful preservatives.

• Remember that pine needles (real or artifcial) can be toxic and cause internal injuries if ingested.

3. Keep Toxic Treats Out of Reach

• Foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, and garlic are dangerous for dogs.

• Store holiday snacks securely and avoid

Plain Road, starting with drainage works, including:

o Reinstating and cleaning drains

o Installing new culverts

Council aims to fnish the Green Pigeon and Horseshoe Creek Road repairs and start drainage work on Fawcetts Plain Road before Christmas.

Traffc Management Fawcetts Plain Road will remain open under traffc control during the project to minimize disruption for residents and motorists. This repair initiative represents a signifcant step toward restoring safe and reliable infrastructure for the community. Residents are encouraged to remain patient and cautious while the work is underway.

For more information or updates on the project, contact Kyogle Council directly.

leaving food unattended on counters or tables.

4. Dog-Proof Your Home

• Secure rubbish bins and hazardous items to prevent pets from chewing or ingesting them.

• Consider installing pet gates to limit access to decorated areas.

5. Provide Environmental Enrichment

• Offer puzzle toys and other forms of mental stimulation to keep pets entertained and reduce boredom-driven chewing.

6. Teach Basic Commands

• Training commands like “drop” or “leave it” can be lifesaving when pets interact with dangerous items.

Holiday Mishaps: Real Risks and Common Incidents

Veterinarians frequently see holidayrelated emergencies, including pets ingesting foreign objects like tinsel, baubles, and even wrapping paper.

Cats are notorious for batting at dangling

ornaments, while dogs often scavenge anything within reach.

Crighton notes, “The hustle and bustle of family gatherings can divide attention, increasing the risk of accidents. Prevention is the best way to keep your furry friends safe.”

Anecdotal

Observations from Pet Experts

While exact items ingested by pets aren’t always identifed in vet claims, the outcomes of treatment highlight the need for preventive measures. Cats, drawn to shiny objects, often face risks from tinsel and ribbons, while dogs are quick to chew or swallow hazardous items like Christmas lights and ornaments.

Create a Pet-Safe Holiday Environment

Pet Insurance Australia reminds pet parents that the key to a stress-free holiday is prevention. By taking simple precautions and creating a pet-friendly festive space, families can enjoy the season without worry.

Clarence Valley Advocate Paris Rose Brailsford Helps Shape the Future at Inaugural NSW Youth Summit

JEFF GIBBS

Paris Rose Brailsford, a 21-year-old youth advocate from the Clarence Valley, made her mark at the frst-ever NSW Youth Summit held in Sydney, where young people from across the state gathered to discuss the critical issues shaping their future.

A Platform for Youth Voices

The Summit united participants from diverse regional and metro communities, cultural backgrounds, and life experiences, engaging them directly with Ministers and Commissioners to address pressing issues such as:

• Cost-of-living pressures

• Mental health

• Housing availability

• Climate change

• Education and employment

This landmark event, a collaboration between the NSW Offce for Regional Youth, the Advocate for Children and Young People, and the NSW Department of Communities and Justice, signifes a transformative approach to youth engagement.

Paris’ Leadership and Advocacy

Paris played a dual role at the summit—as both a participant and a member of the Youth Summit Working Group, a team of young people who co-designed the event to refect the priorities and perspectives of NSW’s youth.

A passionate advocate, Paris has championed issues such as:

• Education access

• Financial support for young people

• Youth homelessness

• Tackling substance abuse and its cultural impacts

Her previous roles on the NSW Youth Parliament and the

NSW Regional Youth Taskforce have provided her with a platform to amplify young voices and drive meaningful change.

Now studying a Bachelor of Economics/ Bachelor of Laws at the University of New England, Paris brings her lived experience as a full-time student living away from home, offering a unique perspective on the challenges faced by regional youth.

Summit Highlights

The NSW Youth Summit featured dynamic panel discussions, interactive

workshops, and networking opportunities with government leaders, including:

• Minister for Youth Rose Jackson, who led a pivotal workshop emphasizing ongoing, authentic youth engagement with the government.

• Collaborative sessions where young participants shared their ideas on creating stronger connections between youth and policymakers.

Paris described her participation as an invaluable experience:

“I have grown extremely passionate about equal opportunities

in education, fairer student loan provisions, better fnancial support, and addressing the deep-rooted challenges of homelessness and substance abuse affecting young people.

“I was excited by the prospect of sharing my own experiences, having my opinions challenged, and contributing to strategies that aim to support the youth of NSW.”

Commitment to Change

Rose Jackson,

NSW Minister for Youth, emphasized the government’s commitment to listening

and acting on the concerns of young people:

“This summit is a historic moment for NSW. It represents the beginning of a stronger, ongoing relationship between young people and the NSW Government. Today’s conversations will shape how we engage with young people in the future.”

Engaging Youth Across NSW

The NSW Government’s Your Voice, Our Future consultation, which preceded the summit, has engaged thousands of young people, and the online survey remains open until 31 December. Young people are encouraged to share their input at: Your Voice, Our Future.

A Milestone for Youth Empowerment

The NSW Youth Summit has laid the foundation for a deeper partnership between young people and policymakers, empowering youth advocates like Paris Rose Brailsford to shape the future of the state with their vision, experiences, and ideas.

Lismore-based writer makes tenth edition of Seniors’ Stories

LISMORE MP Janelle

Saffn has congratulated local writer Mary-Jane Gibson on being one of 100 seniors who have told extraordinary tales of moments that defned them in the milestone tenth edition of Seniors’ Stories.

Mary-Jane Gibson, 69, (pictured), who is enjoying success with her short stories after coming from an academic background, was selected for her story titled, ‘The Recipe of Me’ which appears on Page 186 of the collection.

Ms Saffn said MaryJane was on a roll after her authentic voice and engaging writing style was featured in

Seniors’ Stories for the second year in a row.

“This is a back-to-back achievement of which she can be very proud,”

Ms Saffn said.

Written in the form of a recipe, Mary-Jane talks about her heritage – Irish, Scottish, English and Australian. She mentions her childhood spent hanging in trees and enjoying paddle

pops on the beach and talks about growing up as a Catholic. She believes there have been many moments that have made her, all of which she has made peace with.

This year’s theme

‘What Made Me’ has produced stories of hardship, resilience, life changing moments, and generational life lessons

in the 260-page book.

Seniors’ Stories was introduced in 2013 to recognise and value the experiences of NSW seniors.

The competition is open to all Seniors Card and Senior Savers Card holders and offers the opportunity to showcase different cultures, backgrounds and

languages, told through real, lived experiences.

NSW Minister for Seniors Jodie Harrison said this year’s competition attracted a near record high volume of entries.

“We saw one of the highest submission rates this year with over 500 short stories shared with our judging panel from

across NSW for the milestone tenth edition of Seniors’ Stories,” Ms Harrison said.

Seniors’ Stories

Volume 10 will be available at all local libraries across NSW by the end of November 2024, or can be downloaded as PDF or audiobook from www. seniorscard.nsw.gov.au

NSW Youth Summit 2024 Minister Jackson and Paris

Mary-Jane Gibson

Samantha’s Book

Tweed Farmers to Beneft from New Regenerative Agribusiness Training Program

Tweed farmers invited to Earth Brewery event to help shape delivery of $60,000 grant

An epic tale of local pioneers

Title: Red Earth, Red Blood

Author: Graham Smith

Price: $35.00

Distributor: Various local outlets

By Samantha Elley

Let me introduce you to Pat and Bridget O’Reilly, carters who make a living distributing goods, that have been delivered by boat to Ballina from Sydney, to the scattered residents and pioneers of 19th century Northern Rivers.

Then there is Dan and Nell Riordan, a fencer and farmer who make their home in the Big Scrub and start their young family.

Martin Baillie is the local travelling clergyman who helps knit the community together, along with the Brewsters, the Hilardts and many more characters that make up the early pioneering community of Duck Creek, before it was known as Alstonville.

Delve into the struggles, the goals and the achievements of this

IAN ROGERS

burgeoning community and share in their heartache and joys.

From wedding plans that nearly didn’t go ahead, to the establishment of a new school, to sudden disasters, new life and second chances, it is all tied up in the lives of those Graham Smith has woven into this epic story.

At 95 years old Graham has fnally published his frst historical fction, although he is no stranger to the publishing world.

His frst book, ‘Sweet Beginnings’, tells the story of the sugar industry on the Northern Rivers.

Red Earth, Red Blood is proof of Graham’s elegant writing style that will have any reader invested from the frst, to the fnal page.

Copies of Red Earth, Red Blood are available from the following local outlets:

• Hemlocks Bookstore, Woodburn

• The Book Warehouse, Lismore and Ballina

• Miles & Henry Bookstore Cafe, Alstonville

• Mid Richmond

Historical Society, Coraki

• Alstonville Plateau

Historical Society, Alstonville

• The Book Room, Lennox Head

• The Book Room, Byron Bay

Tweed Shire farmers and agribusiness owners will soon have access to a tailored agribusiness training program as part of the ‘Cultivating Tomorrow: Empowering

Tweed Shire Farmers through Regenerative Agribusiness Mastery’ project. The initiative, funded by a $60,000 grant from the NSW Environmental Trust’s Environmental Education Program, was announced by Member for Lismore Janelle Saffn. Empowering Farmers with Business and Regenerative Skills

The project aims to equip local farmers with the tools they need to improve their

proftability while adopting sustainable practices such as:

• Managed grazing

• Agroforestry

• Cover cropping

• Using organic amendments like compost

Eli Szandala, Council’s Program Leader for Sustainable Agriculture, highlighted the importance of this initiative:

“We often hear the old adage – it’s hard to be green when you’re in the red. This program will address that by helping farmers increase proftability while enhancing environmental outcomes on their farms.

“The grant enables us to provide affordable, locally relevant training,

coaching, and workshops led by experienced agribusiness trainers and successful regenerative farmers from our community.”

Kickoff Event at Earth Beer Company

The project will launch with an end-of-year gathering for local farmers and agribusiness owners at the Earth Beer Company brewery in Cudgen:

• When: Friday, 6 December 2024

• Time: 10:00 AM –1:00 PM

• What: A collaborative discussion to shape the training program based on the business development needs of Tweed’s farming community. Farmers are encouraged

to register online at Humanitix or by contacting Council’s Program Leader for Sustainable Agriculture at 6670 2400.

Affordable Training for a Sustainable Future

The program will deliver practical, engaging, and subsidized courses designed to meet the unique challenges of Tweed Shire farmers. By combining regenerative practices with sound business strategies, the initiative seeks to ensure long-term proftability and sustainability for the region’s agricultural sector.

For more information about the Sustainable Agriculture Program, visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/ agriculture-farming.

Local farmer Andrew Cameron leads a tour around his Burringbar property in September 2024 as part of Council’s Farm Walk and Talk series.

Tahillia back to doing what she does best

ONE of Australia’s most successful practitioners in the psychic world, ‘Tahilllia’ is back doing what she does best after more than decade off.

Tahillia’s innate abilities to ‘read’ people saw her at the forefront of mediumship both here in Australia and overseas for many, many years, her prolific presence and accuracy saw her readings published national magazines like Girlfriend and Total Sport while prime time TV couldn’t get enough of her.

A regular on current affair program Today Tonight, her outcomes with live audiences were so credible they declared her the best in the world, something Tahillia recalls like it was yesterday.

“I’d travel down to do an appearance with other psychics. At first it felt a bit strange, a bit gimmicky, because I thought they were testing me like a guinea pig but it was the only way you could be taken seriously by people and other clairvoyants. I remember I would be reading audiences until 2 in the morning,” she said.

Tahillia said the TV producers were impressed with her ability because she operated on a ‘theta’ level while the other psychics

on the program were alpha readers.

“They used to call me the clairvoyant for clairvoyants. A lot Yogis in India, they do all sorts of things to reach ‘theta’ level, follow special diets, but I do it spontaneously, it’s like a meditative, dream-like state when it happening.”

Tahillia’s talent has seen her do readings for people from all walks of life, from A-list celebrities to sports stars and politicians.

After prompting she rattled off a few names: Keanu Reeves, Ewan McGregor, Andie MacDowell, rockstars Mick Jagger and then girlfriend Jerry Hall, Mariah Carey, Lisa Marie Presley and sportstars including Greg Norman, Susie O’Neill, Cathy Freeman, and John Eales.

“I’ve read for a lot of famous people, touched on what was happening in their lives at the time and if I picked up a problem it would end up being sorted out. You pick up things in their energy.”

Tahillia said she doesn’t have work face-to-face to do this, she has done readings over the phone or from a photograph “and just go from there.”

Her special sense has also been called upon to help with police cases which

are general highly sensitive in nature so discretion is always a priority while working in this field.

“Journalists working on stories referred to me as ‘fire hose’ when it came to my abilities. I’m not just a clairvoyant, I’m a specialist right across the psychic field. I just think, tune in and feel and hear things.”

While Tahillia is hard to define as a practitioner, her specialities include mediumship, past lives, clairvoyance, dream analysis, and she is the only person in the world that does (readings) based on children’s names and what they mean about that individual as they grow older. She also teaches meditation techniques to kids and adults.

What she doesn’t do is read cards (tarot).

“Lots of people look to card readings but I don’t do that. I couldn’t read one of those if my life depended on it. If anything they would probably confuse me more. And I don’t read off crystal balls. I use my own ability.”

That ability is something Tahillia said she has always had. It’s not something she learned by doing a course or following some kind of formula.

“I was like this when I was a little girl. So you

can imagine in the 1960s, I would just mutter away and say things and do that at a child level. I’d go off to church and tell kids where they lost their animals or their toys. I had a lot of tests as a kid because they couldn’t understand where it was coming from. As a person that can feel a bit horrible, people don’t realise that what they’re attacking is your nature.”

Tahlia was in the middle of remerging on the psychic stage when the COVID-19 pandemic hit “I was ready to a 2000 audience in Sydney and 100,000 on the internet in New York City” and while that did put the brakes on for a while she is getting closer to catching up with all the technological advances that have occurred since taking time out.

“It used to be all faxes and emails before I went travelling and took a break but I felt ready to go back into my profession and started working again about eight months ago. I’m back doing what I do best, helping people move on with all kinds of things in their lives.”

Tahillia said she has a website set to be launched next month, YouTube videos being made, and a Facebook community to build. “I’m even on Twitter

now and keen to get that blue tick.”

Based here on the North Coast of NSW, Tahillia said she was also planning to do live shows “at some stage” in the region, and will be touring overseas once international borders are open again but would be working with worldwide audiences on the internet in the meantime.

“I’ve never had as much to do with internet as I do now.”

While Tahillia knows she has a special ability, she recognises it like she would any other talent.

“We’re all gifted in certain areas. You could be gifted in writing or playing music. I’m gifted in my

ability but not everybody gets to that point. You can be good at art but you’re not Michelangelo. Some people are just particularly good at what they do.”

Tahillia said that’s the difference between having someone that’s a total professional to somebody who’s just a “kick-about”.

“I’m really against these courses that think they can teach people to read-off a photograph in 10 minutes or go and do deep readings at markets. You can be dealing with people’s tragedies and emotions, there’s a responsibility to doing this sort of thing. I was born with this ability so I don’t know anything different.”

I believe… by Nigel Dawe

ON the second shelf of the lesser of the three bookshelves in my living room there looms a faded green tome called I Believe – The Personal Reflections of Twenty-Three Eminent Men and Women of Our Time. Published in 1952 it includes the thoughts of Einstein, Bertrand Russell, Pearl S. Buck, H. G. Wells and Thomas Mann –four of whom won a Nobel Prize for their efforts – each having mined in this book their hearts and prodigious IQs for the semblance of an explanation to the ultimate question of all.

As such, I’m not sure how many movers and dignitaries today give even a skerrick of time to such considerations, let alone those of us who occupy the ranks of Everyday Joe. But it got me thinking, what would I say if I were put on the same spot so as to unpack my most firmly held beliefs, for all to decipher and see.

Not necessarily in any order, but along the lines of the original meaning of the word ‘belief’, which stems from the old German expression ‘galaubon’, meaning ‘to hold dear, trust or esteem.’ I personally hold dear the notion that each of us have the same right to think, live, love, feel, profess, and exist in whatever form we chose (as long as that choice does not hurt, harm or diminish in any way the existence, held relevance, or standing of anyone else).

No one deserves our silence, and definitely not those who use, abuse, or take it upon themselves to make anyone’s life miserable or less than it is; as

Council delivers generational water upgrades to secure Lismore’s

each of us do, so each of us should be prepared to have our exploits told – to the very letter of what we did, if not found appropriate to do at every step and stage of the way. In the same token, those who deserve praise ought never be overlooked; good deeds are the pure gleaming seams of gold that should be directly sought and celebrated loudly, once they are discerned.

The exploitation of the poor, and the unequal distribution of wealth is arguably our most pressing point of contention, if there is to be any semblance of a sane Century beyond the Century we are in. That 1.1% of the world’s population control nearly 50%, or $208.3 trillion in total global wealth is as wrong and ridiculous as it is utterly disgraceful.

According to Oxfam research, if a tax of just 5% on the world’s richest individuals were created, it’d raise some $1.7 trillion a year, or enough to elevate 2 billion people out of poverty!

And finally, it is imperative that each of us go out of our way to learn as much as we can to aid and raise the quality of life for everyone. We each have abilities and much can be gleaned from cliches, itself a French word that was originally used by printers, and simply meant ‘to click’. One that clicks most clearly for mine, is a comment Friederich Nietzsche once made, “In order to see much we must learn to look away from ourselves.”

Lismore City Council has successfully completed a $3.4 million water infrastructure upgrade, replacing 1732 metres of aging cast iron water pipes with modern, fully welded polyethylene pipes. This signifcant investment secures the city’s water supply for the next century, ensuring long-term reliability and sustainability for residents and businesses.

A Project Built for the Future

The ambitious project focused on replacing the original cast iron pipes, which had reached the end of their functional life. Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg emphasized the critical importance of this upgrade:

“Replacing centuryold pipes with modern materials

was a balancing act to minimize service interruptions while maximizing the life of this vital asset. This upgrade strengthens our city’s water services for the next generation.”

Key Features of the Upgrade

• Transition to Polyethylene Pipes:

The new fully welded polyethylene system offers:

o Exceptional durability

o Enhanced safety

o Improved effciency

o A lifespan exceeding 100 years, supported by the WSAA Polyethylene Pipeline Code.

• Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD): To minimize disruptions to the CBD community, Council utilized advanced horizontal directional

drilling techniques.

o Faster and more cost-effective installation.

o Reduced excavation compared to traditional opencut methods.

• Thorough Testing and Compliance:

Following installation, all new water mains underwent:

o Rigorous pressure testing verifed by NATA-accredited assessors.

o Comprehensive bacterial and chemical testing to meet Australian drinking water standards.

Community Benefts

The project delivers signifcant benefts to the Lismore community, including:

• A secure and dependable water supply for residents and businesses.

• Reduced maintenance costs and enhanced reliability.

• Minimal service disruptions during and after the upgrade.

Council’s Commitment to Vital Infrastructure

This initiative forms a key part of Lismore City Council’s Capital Works Water Pipelines program, demonstrating its dedication to responsibly maintaining critical services for the community.

“This project refects our commitment to innovative, long-lasting solutions that will serve Lismore for generations to come,” Mayor Krieg said.

The upgrade not only enhances the city’s water infrastructure but also underscores Lismore City Council’s focus on sustainable and forwardthinking initiatives for the region.

ROBERT HEYWARD

The original cast iron pipes were more than 100 years old.

Bunnings Found in Breach of Privacy Act Over Facial Recognition Technology

JEFF GIBBS

The Offce of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) has ruled that Bunnings breached the Privacy Act by using facial recognition technology in its stores without proper consent. The retailer has been directed to cease such practices and to destroy all facial data collected via the controversial system.

Landmark Decision on Privacy

This decision follows a 2022 investigation by CHOICE, which uncovered Bunnings’ use of facial recognition technology, sparking signifcant public and legal scrutiny.

CHOICE Senior Campaigns and Policy Advisor, Raf Alam, welcomed the OAIC ruling:

“We are pleased that the Information Commissioner has found Bunnings in breach of

the Privacy Act. This landmark decision will force businesses across Australia to rethink the use of facial recognition technology moving forward.”

Public Outrage and Broader Concerns

The use of facial recognition technology in various settings, including retail stores,

sporting venues, and pubs and clubs, has caused widespread public concern. Alam emphasized the need for stronger protections:

“The Australian community has been shocked and angered by the unchecked use of facial recognition technology. While this ruling is a step

in the right direction, Australia’s privacy laws remain confusing, outdated, and diffcult to enforce.”

CHOICE’s Ongoing Advocacy

CHOICE is calling for comprehensive reforms to ensure consumer protections are robust and businesses are held accountable:

• Fit-for-Purpose

Privacy Laws: CHOICE advocates for clear, enforceable regulations specifc to emerging technologies like facial recognition.

• Immediate

Accountability: Businesses should face swift consequences for privacy breaches.

• Consumer Protection: Stronger safeguards are needed to prevent potential harms from improper use of sensitive technologies. The Path Forward As the use of facial recognition grows, CHOICE continues to push for legislative action to regulate its deployment and ensure Australians’ privacy is protected.

Learn more:

• Read CHOICE’s 2022 investigation: Facial Recognition Technology - www. choice.com.au/ facialrecognition

• Sign the petition to regulate facial recognition: CHOICE Petition - www.shorturl. at/Rsqni

This case sets a precedent that could infuence how facial recognition technology is regulated in Australia, reinforcing the need for businesses to prioritize privacy and transparency in their practices.

LIAM JENNINGS

The Sony LinkBuds Fit are the latest addition to Sony’s true wireless earbuds lineup, designed to offer a blend of comfort, advanced features, and highquality audio.

Design and Comfort Sony has prioritised comfort with the LinkBuds Fit, introducing “Air Fitting Supporters”—soft, hollow silicone wings that provide a secure and

Sony Releases the NewFit TWS Noise Cancelling Earbuds

pressure-free ft. This design ensures stability during various activities, including exercise. The earbuds are lightweight, weighing approximately 4.9 grams each, making them suitable for extended wear.

Sound Quality and Noise Cancellation

Equipped with Sony’s Integrated Processor V2 and Dynamic Driver X, the LinkBuds Fit deliver detailed sound with enhanced bass. They support High-Resolution Audio Wireless via the

LDAC codec, allowing for superior audio quality over Bluetooth. The earbuds feature active noise cancellation (ANC) to minimize ambient noise and an improved Ambient Sound Mode that automatically adjusts to your surroundings, keeping you aware of important sounds when needed.

Battery Life

The LinkBuds Fit offer up to 5.5 hours of playback with ANC enabled, and the charging case extends this to a

total of 21 hours. A quick three-minute charge provides up to an hour of playback, ensuring minimal downtime.

Additional Features

• Multipoint Connectivity: Allows simultaneous connection to two devices, facilitating easy switching between them.

• Voice Control: Features built-in voice controls that operate without the need for a smart assistant, enabling hands-free operation.

• Water Resistance:

With an IPX4 rating, the earbuds are resistant to sweat and splashes, making them suitable for workouts and outdoor use.

Customisation and Style

The LinkBuds Fit are available in multiple colours, including a special edition violet model designed in collaboration with artist Olivia Rodrigo. Users can personalise their earbuds with optional accessories like different coloured Air Fitting

World’s Thinnest Portable Monitor Revolutionises Productivity on the Go

durability without sacrifcing portability.

In a groundbreaking leap for portable technology, the espresso Display 15 has emerged as a game-changer for professionals who demand both versatility and performance in their on-the-go setups. Touted as the world’s thinnest portable monitor, this innovative device is now available, offering a sleek 5.3mm-thin profle that combines cuttingedge technology with stylish design.

A New Standard in Portability

At just 5.3mm thick and weighing only 865 grams, the espresso Display 15 is designed to ft seamlessly into any backpack or briefcase. Whether you’re commuting, working remotely, or traveling internationally, this ultra-thin monitor is engineered for convenience. The lightweight aluminium chassis and hardened glass screen provide

This compact yet robust build is complemented by a 15.6-inch Full HD display, delivering crisp visuals with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. Boasting a brightness level of 300 nits, the screen ensures vibrant and clear imagery, whether you’re editing photos, drafting documents, or hosting virtual meetings.

Interactivity at Your Fingertips

One of the standout features of the espresso Display 15 is its fully interactive touchscreen. Compatible with both macOS and Windows, the device supports intuitive gestures, enhancing user interaction. For creative professionals, an optional stylus offers precise input for tasks such as drawing, notetaking, and annotation. Mac users can unlock the full potential of the touchscreen by installing espressoFlow, the company’s

proprietary software. This application also introduces features such as auto-rotation and workspace management, allowing for a seamless multi-screen experience.

Simplifed Connectivity

The espresso Display 15 is designed for simplicity, featuring a single USB-C connection for power and data transfer. This minimalist approach reduces clutter and makes setting up

the display a breeze. Whether paired with a laptop, tablet, or smartphone, the monitor adapts effortlessly to any device.

Accessories for Every Need

Espresso has thoughtfully designed accessories to complement the Display 15. A magnetic stand offers adjustable viewing angles, ensuring ergonomic comfort during extended use. The

stand attaches securely to the display, making it easy to position the screen in either portrait or landscape mode.

For professionals who demand precision, the espressoPen is a worthy addition. This stylus is calibrated for the display, delivering pixel-perfect accuracy for intricate tasks, whether sketching, designing, or annotating documents.

Available Now

The espresso Display

Supporters and case covers.

Pricing and Availability

The Sony LinkBuds Fit are priced at $298 and are available through Sony’s offcial website and authorised retailers. Overall, the Sony LinkBuds Fit combine comfort, advanced audio features, and userfriendly functionalities, making them a compelling choice for those seeking versatile true wireless earbuds.

15 is available through major retailers, including JB Hi-Fi in Australia, and can also be purchased online from the company’s offcial website. With its premium build and professional-grade features, the monitor is priced competitively for those seeking to elevate their productivity.

A Game-Changer for Remote Work

As remote work continues to redefne professional setups, the espresso Display 15 stands out as a forwardthinking solution. Its sleek design, touchscreen functionality, and portability make it an invaluable tool for anyone looking to expand their workspace on the go.

For digital nomads, creative professionals, or business executives, the espresso Display 15 offers the perfect blend of style, functionality, and innovation. With this device, espresso is not just a coffee—it’s a productivity powerhouse.

LIAM JENNINGS

The 2025 Chevrolet C8 Corvette Stingray breaks new ground in the supercar segment by delivering exceptional performance, striking design, and everyday usability—all at a fraction of the cost of European rivals.

With prices starting at $195,000 for the 3LT Coupe, it’s a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking luxury and power without sacrifcing practicality.

A Revolution in Corvette History

Launched over 70 years ago, the Corvette has undergone signifcant transformations, but none more groundbreaking than the eighthgeneration C8. This is the frst Corvette with a mid-engine layout, improving balance, traction, and overall performance. It’s also the frst to arrive in Australia with factory-built righthand drive, eliminating the need for aftermarket modifcations.

Pricing and Variants

The Stingray range includes:

• 2LT Coupe: $175,000 (+ ORCs)

• 2LT Convertible:

$190,000 (+ ORCs)

• 3LT Coupe (tested):

$195,000 (+ ORCs)

• 3LT Convertible:

$205,000 (+ ORCs)

• Z06 Coupe: $336,000 (+ ORCs)

The tested 3LT Coupe

includes optional upgrades such as machined-face alloy wheels ($4,940), red brake callipers ($1,625), and chrome badging ($507), bringing the price to $202,072 before on-road costs. Wait times for the Stingray have dropped to fve months, with nine months required for the Z06, which offers an even more exhilarating experience.

Performance

The Stingray’s 6.2-litre LT2 V8 produces 369kW and 637Nm, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This powertrain propels the car from 0-100km/h in just 2.9 seconds, delivering ferocious acceleration. The Z51 Performance Package, standard in Australia, enhances handling and cooling, featuring:

• Brembo brakes

• Adaptive Magnetic Ride Control dampers

• Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres

• Limited-slip differential

• Performance exhaust

The Stingray is built for track and road, offering grip and balance that rival cars costing twice as much. Fuel economy is offcially rated at 13.5L/100km but is likely higher with spirited driving.

Driving Experience

The C8 Corvette offers a thrilling yet refned driving experience.

The four standard drive modes—Weather, Tour, Sport, and Track—adapt the car’s character to various conditions. For everyday use, Tour mode provides a comfortable ride, soaking up bumps with ease. Sport mode dials up responsiveness, while Track mode unleashes its full potential with frm suspension, razor-sharp steering, and a ferocious exhaust note.

The Michelin tyres and balanced chassis deliver outstanding grip, allowing drivers to corner confdently at speed. The eight-speed dual-clutch transmission shifts seamlessly and quickly, while the paddle shifters provide precise manual control when desired.

Despite its supercar performance, the Stingray is remarkably liveable. The adaptive suspension ensures a compliant ride over uneven surfaces, making it suitable for daily driving—a rarity in the supercar world. Interior and Technology

Step inside, and the Corvette’s cabin is unmistakably driver focused. The tested 3LT features a bold red leather and suede interior, though the colour may polarize opinions. The cockpit is equipped with an array of technology, including:

• 8.0-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple

CarPlay/Android Auto

• Colour head-up display

• 14-speaker Bose audio system

• Performance Data Recorder for track enthusiasts

The vertically mounted climate control panel and button-heavy design may feel overwhelming at frst, but familiarity improves usability. The removable roof panel stows neatly in the boot, adding practicality without sacrifcing storage space. Front and rear trunks offer enough room for groceries or overnight bags.

Safety Features

While the Corvette lacks offcial crash test ratings (common among supercars), it includes a robust safety suite:

• Forward collision warning with low-speed AEB

• Lane assist with departure warning

• Blind-spot monitoring

• Rear cross-traffc alert

• Automatic high beams

Front and rear parking sensors and cameras enhance manoeuvrability, though visibility remains a challenge—a typical issue with mid-engine supercars.

What Sets the C8 Apart?

The C8’s mid-engine layout improves weight distribution and handling, placing it in direct competition with far more expensive rivals like Ferrari and

McLaren. The Z51 package, standard on Australian models, ensures it delivers track-ready performance straight from the factory. Its price, however, is what truly sets it apart, offering a supercar experience for $200,000, a fraction of the cost of its European peers.

Verdict

The 2024 Chevrolet C8 Corvette Stingray 3LT is a game-changer, offering supercar performance and looks at a price that makes it accessible to more enthusiasts. With breathtaking acceleration, sharp handling, and a surprising level of comfort, it’s as thrilling on the track as it is manageable on city streets.

While visibility and interior quirks may deter some, the Stingray’s value, performance, and legacy make it a standout choice for anyone

seeking the ultimate driving experience without a supercar price tag.

Pros:

• Exceptional performance and handling

• Competitive pricing

• Daily usability

Cons:

• Bold interior design may not appeal to all

• Limited storage and visibility challenges

For those who’ve dreamed of owning a supercar, the C8 Corvette Stingray makes that dream a reality.

At a Glance:

• Price (as tested): $202,072 (+ ORCs)

• Engine: 6.2-litre V8

• Output:

369kW/637Nm

• 0-100km/h: 2.9 seconds

• Fuel economy: 13.5L/100km (combined)

• Warranty: 3 years/100,000km

JEFF GIBBS

Business Closures Reach Four-Year High Amid Cost Pressures

IAN ROGERS

Business insolvencies in Australia have hit a four-year high, with rising costs and financial pressures forcing many companies to shut their doors. According to debt-monitoring firm

CreditorWatch, the business failure rate rose to 5.04% in October 2024, nearing the peak of 5.08% seen during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in October 2020.

On an annual basis, insolvency rates are now 25% higher than pre-pandemic levels. Why Are Businesses Struggling?

CreditorWatch identified three main reasons for the increase in insolvencies:

1. Higher Cost of Living: Consumers are tightening their spending, particularly on discretionary items, affecting business revenues.

On an annual basis, insolvency rates are now 25% higher than prepandemic levels.

2. Higher Cost of Doing Business: Rising electricity prices, insurance premiums, rent, and wage increases have put pressure on operating costs, especially for smaller businesses.

3. Tax Debt Recovery:

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is actively pursuing $35 billion in unpaid tax debts, with many affected businesses in the hospitality and construction sectors.

Sectors Most Affected

• Hospitality:

o This sector had the highest failure rate, averaging 8.5% over the past year.

o CreditorWatch predicts the rate will climb further to 9.1% in the next 12 months.

• Construction:

o The construction sector’s failure rate averaged 5.3%, though it appears to be stabilizing.

o Long-standing cost pressures and reduced activity due to high interest rates have strained many businesses.

Both sectors also face the highest levels of tax debt and defaults, further

limiting their financial viability.

Broader Financial Challenges

The report highlighted a rise in businessto-business payment defaults, indicating that more companies are struggling to pay their bills. Arrears have increased across most industries, reflecting the cumulative impact of rising costs and economic pressures.

Ivan Colhoun, CreditorWatch’s chief economist, remarked: “Unfortunately, higher costs and interest rates are leading to more arrears and business failures. It’s an expected but unfortunate consequence of the current environment.”

Will Interest Rate Cuts Help?

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) is unlikely to cut interest rates at its December meeting. Rates have remained steady at 4.35% since November 2023, with economists expecting the first cuts in the first half of 2025. While inflation fell to 2.8% in the September quarter and unemployment held steady at 4.1% in October, the RBA has signalled it won’t reduce rates until inflation drops further or unemployment rises.

Mr. Colhoun noted that even if rates are cut, the effects will take time to materialize. However, lower inflation could

provide some relief by reducing cost-ofliving pressures and encouraging consumer spending, potentially boosting businesses in the medium term.

Future Uncertainties

While consumer and business confidence have shown modest improvement in recent months, challenges remain:

• Global Risks: A potential shift in U.S. trade policy, including proposed tariff increases on major Australian trading partners, could create additional uncertainties for businesses.

• Tax Debt Recovery Delays: The impact of delayed tax cuts and ongoing tax collection

efforts could exacerbate financial strain for some businesses.

The Road Ahead

While some sectors show signs of resilience, the rising insolvency rates underscore the need for continued government and industry support.

Businesses in hospitality and construction, in particular, will require targeted relief and reforms to navigate these challenging conditions. The long-term outlook hinges on broader economic stability, interest rate adjustments, and efforts to reduce operational costs for struggling businesses.

Millions of Aussies Gain Big From Surprising Super Fund Performance

contributing extra.

• Female Example:

Millions of Australians are reaping unexpected rewards from their superannuation funds in 2024, thanks to a surprising surge in global share markets.

Many super members are thousands of dollars better off without even realizing it, as median growth funds post impressive gains.

Super Funds Shine in 2024

According to Chant West, the median growth fund – comprising 61-80% in growth assets – has delivered a 10.3% return year-to-date, well above the typical long-term target of 6%.

What This Means for Members:

• Male Example: A 44–49-year-old man with an average super balance could see their fund grow by $24,432, even without

A woman in the same age group could gain $16,284, highlighting the power of compounded returns.

“Super fund members in higher-risk portfolios fared even better, benefitting from the strength of global share markets,” said Mano Mohankumar, Senior Investment Research Manager at Chant West. October: A Mixed Month

While October saw declines in both shares and bonds, super funds managed to post flat returns, thanks to a 3.9% boost from unhedged assets driven by the Australian dollar’s fall.

Key factors influencing performance included:

• US Election Anxiety: Market jitters around the US presidential race dampened returns in October.

• Interest Rate

Movements: The US Federal Reserve’s smaller-than-expected 0.25% rate cut calmed markets but tempered expectations for further reductions.

Mohankumar said. Super: A Long-Term Game

Since the introduction of compulsory super in 1992, the median growth fund has achieved an average return of 8%

Crisis (2007–2009)

• The COVID-19 Pandemic (2020)

• High Inflation and Rising Interest Rates (2022)

Super funds still delivered 7.2% per

A Strong Year Overall 2024 is shaping up to be a standout year for super funds, following a betterthan-expected return of 9.9% in 2023.

“If funds maintain this momentum, it would be a tremendous outcome for super members,”

per annum, outpacing inflation at 2.7%. This translates to a real return of 5.3%, well above the target range of 3.5%.

Even over the past 20 years – which included major economic downturns like:

• The Global Financial

annum, comfortably exceeding expectations. What Should Members Do?

Mr. Mohankumar reminded Australians of the importance of focusing on long-term outcomes: “Superannuation is a

long-term proposition. While there will be ups and downs, the system’s strong historic performance speaks for itself.”

Key Takeaways

1. Significant Growth: Median growth funds are on track for a stellar year, boosting Australians’ super balances.

2. Currency Boost: The falling Australian dollar provided a surprising tailwind for unhedged assets in October.

3. Steady Over Time: Despite short-term volatility, super funds have consistently delivered strong longterm returns. With rate cuts potentially on the horizon in 2025, the outlook for super fund performance remains optimistic.

Members are encouraged to stay invested and focus on long-term growth to secure their financial future.

IAN ROGERS

ENTERTAINMENT

8 PAGE LIFT OUT

Creedence Clearwater Revival & Jimi Hendrix Show

Join us for a fun night of good vibes and great music as the music of the Creedence Clearwater Revival & Jimi Hendrix Show transports you right back to the 60’s & 70’s!

Featuring members from the Late For Woodstock band and other talented professional musicians, rock out to songs like: Fortunate Son, Have You Ever Seen The Rain, Green River, Proud Mary, Hey Tonight, Grapevine, Up Around the Bend, Spell on You, Bad Moon, Born on the Bayou, Suzie Q, Midnight Special, Cotton Fields, Run Through the Jungle, Down On The Corner, and many more! A headliner and an icon of the Woodstock

Music Festival in 1969, Creedence Clearwater Revival captured the attention of millions with their unique brand of soul-felt swampy blues rock. Still relevant to this day, this is music with feeling, hypnotising the mind and moving the body.

You will also hear the music of an equal Woodstock headliner, songwriter and guitarist extraordinaire - Jimi Hendrix, with songs including Purple Haze, Hey Joe, Foxy Lady, Highway Chile, Fire, Wind Cries Mary, Watchtower, and more. Jimi is widely regarded as one of the most infuential electric guitarists in the history of popular music, and one of the most

celebrated musicians of the 20th century. His style fused blues, jazz, rock and soul with unique playing techniques which redefned the electric guitar in music. See you there!

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Saturday 30th Nov @8pm

• Where: Mullumbimby Ex Services Club

• Price: $25

RiverShed

RiverShed is primarily a country original and covers band with a sprinkle of rock/pop/ blues, featuring many songs from her albums

‘Paper Memories’ and ‘Dive In Deep’. We also love to cover great songs from artists like Bonnie Rait, Lady A, The Eagles, The Chicks, Kasey Chambers, Keith Urban, Fleetwood Mac, America, Queen and even a bit of John Farnham.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Saturday 30th Nov @4:30pm

• Where: Twin Towns, Tweed Heads

• Price: FREE

Brisbane CBD Apartment

Central location to everything in Brisbanes CBD - 1 bedroom apartment with parking, swimming pool, gym and sauna. Now available over Christmas and New Years but hurry.

TIME FOR TRIVIA

1 Michael Collins is associated with which of these events?

(a) Utegate political scandal in 2009 (b) Discovery of penicillin (c) Assassination of John F. Kennedy (d) 1969 Apollo 11 moon landing

2 The Drake Passage connects the Atlantic Ocean with which other body of water?

(a) Gulf of Mexico (b) Indian Ocean (c) Pacific Ocean (d) Mediterranean Sea

3 Jupiter, Saturn, Neptune and which other planet are known as Jovian planets?

(a) Uranus (b) Mars (c) Earth (d) Mercury

4 Veronica Lodge is a primary character in which comic book series?

(a) X-Men (b) Spiderman (c) Batman (d) Archie

5 Bryson DeChambeau is best known for which sport?

(a) Road cycling

(b) Golf (c) Basketball (d) Archery

6 Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985, is a popular tourist destination in which country?

(a) Jordan (b) Saudi Arabia (c) Iraq (d) Syria

ALFAKODO

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 DYSPHAGIA

(a) Intense dislike

(b) Difficulty in swallowing

(c) Morbid anxiety

2 FECUND

(a) Feverish

(b) Shapely

(c) Fruitful

3 NOTANDUM

(a) The upper surface of a bird’s trunk

(b) Something to be specially noted

(c) A system of signs or symbols

4 OBSECRATE

(a) To implore

(b) To blot out

(c) To render doubtful

5 QUIDDITY

(a) A confection of quince juice and sugar

(b) Chewing tobacco

(c) The essence of anything

PUZZLES

FRIDAY

BETTER HOMES AND

GARDENS

SEVEN, 7pm

With Christmas less than a month away, it’s that time of the year when some of us need some festive inspiration. And what better place to nd it than with Joh Griggs and the gang, who are celebrating this year with a camping trip by the beach. In the kitchen, Adam helps Colin cook a tri e with a twist, while Clarissa will show you how to elevate the Chrissy ham to a new level. Meanwhile, Melissa takes us through how easy it is to get a courtyard ready for the entertaining season, while Dr Harry and some excited school kids take a little ramble in the rock pools, nding a fascinating world of aquatic plants and animal life. It’s the perfect way to ease into the holidays.

FRIDAY, November 29

SUNDAY

MUSTER DOGS: WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

ABC TV, 7.30pm

It was (puppy) love at rst sight for viewers and the clever four-legged stars of Muster Dogs – not to mention their devoted trainers – when this observational series debuted in 2022. Ahead of a third season premiering on the ABC next year, series narrator Lisa Millar catches up with the human and canine participants. In tonight’s premiere, Millar reunites with the winners, Frank Finger and kelpie Annie, and season two favourites Zoë Miller and Buddy the border collie, to nd out how the series (and its worldwide collective of fans) has changed their lives. There’s also cuteness galore as Millar meets with Lily, Snow and a new litter of puppies in Wilcannia, NSW.

WEDNESDAY

THE JURY: DEATH ON THE STAIRCASE

SBS, 8.30pm

This fascinating observational legal series goes

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

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Planet America. (Final, R) 10.30 I Was Actually There. (PG, R) 11.00 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Shetland. (Mal, R) 2.00 Plum. (Final, Ml, R) 3.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (PG, R) 3.30 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 4.15 Grand Designs: The Streets. (PG, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice.

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Gardening Australia.

8.30 Shetland. (Madl) Tosh believes she has the murderer in custody and tasks the team with nding the evidence to charge him.

9.30 Fisk. (Final, Ml, R) Helen is plunged into crisis.

10.00 Question Everything. (R)

10.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

11.00 ABC Late News.

11.20 Grand Designs: The Streets. (PG, R)

12.05 The Space Shuttle That Fell To Earth. (Final, PG, R)

1.05 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.05 For The Love Of Dogs. (PGa, R) 10.00 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGal, R) 10.50 The World’s Most Remote Hotels. 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 The Colosseum: A Jewel In Rome’s Crown. (PGav, R) 3.00 Nula. 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 The Supervet. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 Seven Morning News. 12.00 MOVIE: A Job To Die For. (2022, Mav, R) 2.00

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Every Family Has A Secret. (PGa, R) 8.35 Castle Secrets.

9.30 Kennedy: The Torch Has Passed (January 1961-December 1961) (PG)

10.20 SBS World News Late.

10.50 Elvira. (MA15+v)

12.20 The Wall: The Orchard. (Mals, R) 2.45 Love Your Home And Garden With Alan Titchmarsh. (PGa, R)

3.40 Paul O’Grady’s Little Heroes. (PG, R)

4.30 Peer To Peer. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm Kangaroo Beach. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 P rates. 6.50 Ginger And The Vegesaurs. 6.55 Hey Duggee. 7.05 Andy And The Band. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Strange Chores. 8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.25 BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars: Battle Of The Stars. 9.55 Doctor Who. 10.55 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)

6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs visits Newman in WA. 8.30 MOVIE: Love Actually. (2003, Mlns, R) Explores a series of interlocking vignettes about romance in modern-day Britain through the eyes of eight di erent couples, including the British prime minister and his assistant, in the weeks before Christmas. Hugh Grant, Alan Rickman, Keira Knightley. 11.15 The Front Bar: Cricket Edition. (Ml, R) A lighter look at the cricketing world.

12.30 GetOn Extra.

1.00 Taken. (Mav, R)

2.00 Home Shopping.

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

7TWO (62)

6am WorldWatch. 10.00 The Movie Show. 10.30 Cyberwar. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 Have I Got News For You U.S. 1.25 The Wrestlers. 2.20 Tiny Beautiful Things. 2.50 Fashionista. 3.05 Planet A. 3.55 WorldWatch. 5.55 Adam Eats The 80s. 6.15 Curse Of Oak Island. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 A League Of Their Own Road Trip: SE Asia. 9.25 Secrets Of Miss America. 10.15 Homeland. 12.15am Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Harry’s

emotions, frustration and tension among the jurors are very real as they begin the hard work of deciding their verdict in tonight’s nale. Foreperson Guy begins by asking the jury members their current positions before the group begins an intense, hours-long discussion about intent, doubt, logic and personal convictions. The road to justice is not easy, nor is it always satisfying – but as the jury delivers their decision and the real-life outcome of the case is revealed, this bombshell conclusion is certainly not to be missed.

(5) NBN (8, 80)

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 David Attenborough’s Planet Earth III: Human. (PG, R) Narrated by Sir David Attenborough. 8.40 MOVIE: Miss Congeniality.

(2000, Msv, R) A graceless FBI agent goes undercover in a beauty pageant to catch a terrorist. Sandra Bullock, Michael Caine, Benjamin Bratt.

11.00 MOVIE: Gringo. (2018, MA15+dlv, R) A man plots his own abduction. David Oyelowo.

1.00 Cross Court. (R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

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

6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer.

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news.

7.30 Jamie Oliver: Fast & Simple. Jamie Oliver shares a simple salmon dish, some no-fuss sh cakes made from tins, a lamb madras traybake and a no-cook pasta sauce.

8.30 Matlock. (PGal, R) Olympia tasks Matty with getting close to their client, who is ghting for justice in the wrongful death of his wife.

9.30 NCIS: Origins. (M, R) 10.30 10’s Late News.

10.55 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news.

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

(51) 9GEM (82)

6am Children’s Programs. Noon

9GO! (83) 6am What’s Eating Gilbert Grape. Continued. (1993, PG) 7.50 Minari. (2020, PG, Korean) 10.00 Lord Of The Ants. (2022, M, Italian) 12.35pm La Tenerezza. (2017, M, Italian) 2.40 Five Flights Up. (2014, PG) 4.20 Alone In Space. (2018, PG, Swedish) 5.55 Paris Can Wait. (2016, PG) 7.35 Dirty Dancing. (1987, M) 9.30 Wife And Husband. (2017, M, Italian) 11.30 Belli Ciao. (2022, M, Italian) 1.05am Boiling Point. (2021, MA15+) 2.55 Devil’s Knot. (2013, M) 5.00 3 Days In Quiberon. (2018, PG, French) PEACH (52) 7MATE (64) SBS MOVIES (32) 6am

Gossip Girl. 1.00 MOVIE: Everything In Between. (2022, M) 3.00 The Golden Girls. 3.30 The Nanny. 4.30 The Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 6.00 The Golden Girls. 6.30 The Nanny. 7.30 MOVIE: Journey To The Centre Of The Earth. (2008, PG) 9.30 MOVIE: Four Holidays. (2008, M) 11.15 Metro Sexual. 2am The Nanny. 3.00 Bakugan. 3.30 Beyblade X. 4.00 Transformers: Prime. 4.30 Ninjago. 4.50 Yu-Gi-Oh! Sevens. 5.10 Late Programs. 6am The Fishing Show. 7.00 Step Outside. 7.30 Creek To

PUZZLES AND ASTROLOGY

TARGET TIME

E O R

I L H

S N

E

Today’s target: 20 words average 28 words good

36+ 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

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

Auspac Media

Mars (your power planet) and the fiery New Moon encourage you to focus on friendships, plus your hopes and dreams for the future. The more ambitious your aspirations, the better! You’re not in the mood for superficial encounters with others, preferring deep and meaningful conversations with loved ones. But Mercury is in retrograde mode (from Tuesday until December 15-16), so smart Rams will try to be prudent, patient and persistent.

TAURUS (Apr 20 – May 20)

The New Moon heralds the rebirth of an important relationship of the romantic, platonic or business variety. But remember Mercury turns retrograde on Tuesday (until December 15-16) so financial partnerships, tax matters and deep, dark secrets must be handled with extra tact and care. Double-check everything twice, Taurus! On the weekend, someone tells you something in the strictest of confidence, but are they telling the truth – and can they be trusted?

GEMINI (May 21 – June 20)

Mercury (your patron planet) starts reversing through your relationship zone on Tuesday, so do your best to surround yourself with dependable, sensible, unflappable people. And make sure you double-check all texts (before you press send) and all appointment times (before you leave home). Sunday’s New Moon is a good time to reset boundaries and expectations in a romantic, platonic or business relationship. Keep flexible because things are constantly changing!

CANCER (June 21 – July 22)

Clever Crabs – it’s a good week to revise your diet and/or rejig your fitness routine, as retrograde Mercury and the New Moon activate your healthand-wellbeing zone. It’s important you choose nutritious food and regular exercise that you enjoy, so you can maintain healthy habits into the future. It’s also a suitable week to refine your life direction and follow your guiding star. Be inspired by birthday great Mark Twain: “Explore. Dream. Discover.”

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22) This week a long-cherished dream may need to be re-imagined and reworked so that it better suits your current situation. Rather than seeing it as a disappointing setback, clever Cats will perceive it as an exciting new challenge. With Mars in Leo, you’re impatient to communicate about a wide range of topics, as you share creative ideas with family and friends. But, with Mercury turning retrograde, avoid spilling secrets or saying something that’s inappropriate.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Mercury (your boss planet) is in retrograde mode from Tuesday until December 15-16, so resist the urge to over-analyse, over-worry, overstress and overreact. By all means think things through, but avoid getting caught up in an endless, obsessive loop. As birthday great Bruce Lee observed: “If you spend too much time thinking about a thing, you’ll never get it done.” Sunday promises a fresh start as you relax and have fun with family and friends.

LIBRA (Sep 23 – Oct 22) Perfectionist-prone Librans love things to run efficiently and smoothly but (courtesy of Mercury turning retrograde) there’s disruptive energy about this week. So drop the carefully-planned schedule and just take things as they come. Some possible scenarios? A relationship with a lover, relative, colleague or neighbour could veer off in a confusing direction. Or something you say, text or post on social media could receive a disappointing response.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

Scorpios can have trouble trusting other people at the best of times and, this week, retrograde Mercury and the New Moon stir up your selfesteem zone. So a confidence could be broken, a loved one could let you down or an old resentment could resurface. If you don’t feel comfortable asking someone for help then don’t. Your motto is from birthday great, writer Louisa May Alcott: “I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship.”

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Retrograde Mercury and the fiery New Moon both activate your sign, so you’re ready to sparkle and shine. But avoid overcommitting and promising more than you can deliver. It’s time to shake off the shackles of other people’s expectations and, instead, be the real, authentic you. Your mantra is from birthday great Bruce Lee: “Always be yourself, express yourself, have faith in yourself. Do not go out and look for a successful personality and duplicate it.”

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19) On Tuesday, Mercury turns retrograde (until December 15-16). Mercury is the planet of clear thinking, communication (talking, texting and writing), transport, travel, commuting, commerce, computers, media and the internet. So – when it’s retrograde – it’s not a good time to do the following things: sign contracts; start a job or business; buy a phone, computer, car or home; launch a website; install new software; go on a business trip or embark on a holiday.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18) Are you feeling confused, Aquarius? Have you been questioning your goals in life? Or does it seem as if you’ve got the worries of the world on your shoulders? Take a step back and view things from a wider perspective. Doing good deeds will leave you with a warm inner glow, so think up some dynamic ways you can help those who are less fortunate. As Yoko Ono (a fellow Aquarian) observes: “Helping yourself is connected with helping others.”

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20) This week – with Mercury turning retrograde and a New Moon – it’s time to do things with an ‘re’ in front of it. Revise, rehearse, review, remember, return, recover, reconnect. Especially in areas involving career, work colleagues, clients and customers, plus professional goals and dreams. Energy, confidence, enthusiasm and motivation will take you far, Pisces. Be inspired by birthday great Bruce Lee: “To hell with circumstances … I create opportunities.”

ASTROLOGY with Joanne Madeline Moore

MOSAIC WORKSHOP 3.0

We are holding another Mosaic Workshop held within our colourful showroom at Jatana Interiors in the hills of Federal NSW. The facilitators are Bayley Kilpin who is a practising Mosaic Artist and Taya Mikah a sculptor who will both guide you in making a mosaic piece made from Jatana Interiors tiles. This particular workshop we will be making a door mat to add an elegant detail to welcome your guests, family and yourselves.

Created for ages 15+, but a perfect way to spend a day learning a new skill and creating something beautiful for adults. The workshop will span over 6 hours on the 30th (10am-4pm) AND 4 hours (10am2pm) the following day

for the grouting and polishing process.

Activities will include smashing tiles, designing your piece, gluing and grouting. All materials supplied.

Tea and snacks will be provided. $135 per head. Payment plans available. Email- Taya.mikah@ gmail.com for any questions.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Saturday 30th Nov & Sunday 1st Dec

• Where: 435 Federal Dr, Federal

• Price: $135 +bf

THE ANGELS - 50 NOT OUT @ KINGSCLIFF BEACH HOTEL

This is it, folks – The Angels’ 50th birthday!

To celebrate this remarkable milestone, The Angels will be doing a series of one-off shows all over Australia!

For Angels fans, each show will be an unforgettable onenight stand, featuring classics, rarities and surprises, with a set list spearheaded by songs such as Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again, Who Rings The Bell, Devil’s Gate, Take A Long Line, No Exit, No Secrets, Shadow Boxer, Marseilles, Shoot It Up, Comin’ Down, Let The Night Roll On, Mr Damage, After The Rain, Night Attack, Dogs Are Talking and We Gotta Get Out Of This Place.

The Angels – 50 Not Out, a celebration of everyone who has played with The Angels and

everyone who’s enjoyed an Angels show.

It’s Saturday night, I’ve waited so long ... Let the night roll on!

Doors open at 5pm. Show starts at 7pm. It’s going to be a HUGE night at The Kingy!

Food & drink are available before and during the show from the incredible team at The Kingscliff Beach Hotel!

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Saturday 30th Nov @5pm

• Where: Kingscliff Beach Hotel

• Price: From $46

RAMJET

Plain and simply a great, professional Rock and party band.

Formed in April 2007, RAMJET members, Juddy, Mark, Dave and Iain are without a doubt four of the most experienced and

talented guys to have played around south East Queensland over the last 10 to 15 years.

Roadstar, Crust, Cradlemind, Alimony, The Accidents, Rastafarian Stagedivers and High Voltage are

SARITAH

some of the most popular bands in recent years which these guys have all been a big part of. With a very versatile and forever growing song list, Energetic stage performance and a crowd friendly, easy to deal with professional attitude, RAMJET have already had a huge impact on the Gold Coast and Brisbane scene. These guys have the ability to play massive rock shows through to quiet laid back performances and always come equipped with the absolute best in audio and lighting gear. RAMJET doesn’t take any shortcuts and always do more than is required rather than less. This is a band which always gets a great response from

venues and punters of all ages, shapes, and sizes. If you’re looking for a no-nonsense band you can rely on who look and sound like the real deal, always give 110% and absolutely rock the house every time, then RAMJET is the band for you.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Saturday 30th Nov @9pm

• Where: Twin Towns, Tweed Heads

• Price: FREE

(SOLO) GIFTS ALBUM LAUNCH @ KULCHA JAM, BYRON BAY

Celebrating the release of her 4th full-length album GIFTS, singer/ songwriter/musician Saritah returns to Byron Shire for the frst time in several years. Devoted to the power of music and songs to uplift, inspire and

activate healing, the Korean-born, Perth/ Boorloo-raised artist, who has been based in Los Angeles for most of the last decade, brings her uniquely feminine blend of evolutionary reggae, acoustic soul favours and conscious

lyrics home to Kulcha Jam for one night only.

Saritah’s heartful songs illuminate truths, singing in a better world and reminding us of our True Nature. Her live performances are a sincere and colourful celebration of life.

Produced in Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, California, Portland, Oregon as well as Finland, Spain, France, Nigeria and Australia, GIFTS is a vibrant, fresh collection of songs to lift up our hearts and minds.

“A soulful and joyous triumph. I can hear the

sun shining through my speakers.”

-Alex Kortt, The A&R Department

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Saturday 30th Nov @8pm

• Where: Kulcha Jam, Byron Bay

• Price: $25

BALLS OUT BINGO & DINNER @ LISMORE CITY BOWLS CLUB

Balls OUT Bingo is back at Lismore City Bowls Club. Strap yourself in for live performances by award winning Cabaret & Drag Performer Candy Surprise and a special guest Drag Performer, interactive singing and dancing, non-pc comedy, great prizes to win, a sexy ball boy, with a 5

bumpy games of bingo and a whole lot of fun! $70 plus booking fee. Includes a 2 course meal and a free beer, wine or soft drink on arrival! Book Now!

This is ‘NOT YOUR NANNA’S BINGO’!

This an 18+ Event. Show contains coarse language, sexual references and a

Drag Queen behaving badly! Sense of humour essential and inhibitions to be left at the door! No offence intended!

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Saturday 30th Nov @7pm

• Where: Lismore City Bowls Club

• Price: $70

Dying to Receive Home Care: Aged Care Wait Times Spark Renewed Outrage

ROBERT HEYWARD

Six years after the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, National Seniors Australia (NSA) has slammed the ongoing crisis in home care support, describing it as a persistent “running sore” that continues to leave vulnerable older Australians waiting—sometimes dying—without the care they need.

The alarming case of an 86-year-old South Australian applying to end his life under a Voluntary Assisted Dying Scheme due to prolonged delays has reignited calls for urgent reforms. Federal Member for Mayo, Ms. Rebekha Sharkie MP, brought the case to light, highlighting the human cost of bureaucratic delays.

Home Care Crisis: Numbers Paint a Grim Picture

• 15-Month Wait for Level 4 Care: The

Numbers Paint a Grim Picture

highest level of care, meant for those with critical needs, can take more than a year to be approved.

• Surging Waitlists:

Over 76,000 older Australians are currently waiting for home care, with 47,000 more people added to the waitlist since June 2023.

• Past Improvements Reversed: After briefy achieving a 1–3 month target in early 2023, wait times have worsened dramatically.

NSA Chief Executive Offcer Chris Grice described the delays as “appalling” and warned that without signifcant investment in resources and workforce, the government’s commitment to returning to its three-month target by 2027 is unlikely to be met.

A Royal Commission’s Legacy Ignored

The Royal Commission into Aged Care, launched six years ago, identifed the backlog in home care as a critical issue. Yet, many of its fndings remain unresolved:

• Delayed Approvals: As the Royal Commission heard, people often receive approvals long after their assessments. Many have died waiting for care, a scenario the Commission deemed unacceptable.

• Lack of Urgency: While the proposed Aged Care Bill 2024 aims to expand home care packages by changing means-testing rules, these changes won’t take effect until July

2025—too late for many in desperate need now.

Workforce Shortages: The Elephant in the Room

Even with additional packages, a lack of staff threatens the system’s ability to deliver care.

NSA has emphasized the need for solutions to retain experienced workers, including:

• Exemptions for Care Workers from the Age Pension Means Test: A measure that could help keep skilled older workers in the sector.

• Better Support for Aged Care Staff: Without addressing burnout and low pay, workforce challenges will persist.

A Call to Action Mr. Grice underscored

the urgency of the situation:

“To have someone apply for Voluntary Assisted Dying because they can’t wait for care is heartbreaking. This should never happen. We are grateful to this individual for sharing his story and to Ms. Sharkie for her advocacy, but more must be done to prevent such tragedies in the future.”

NSA’s Recommendations

• Enforceable

Timeframes: The new Aged Care Act must include strict time limits for the approval and delivery of care.

• Immediate Action on Workforce Shortages: Fast-tracking measures

like pension means-test exemptions to bolster staff numbers.

• Greater Investment: Increase funding and resources to reduce wait times and avoid further blowouts.

A Broken System That Needs Fixing Now The home care crisis continues to undermine the dignity and quality of life of older Australians. As Grice put it, “We’ve had this conversation too many times. It’s time for action.”

For Australians like the 86-year-old South Australian and the thousands still waiting, swift reform isn’t just necessary—it’s a matter of life and death.

Call for a Senior Dental Benefts Scheme: Affordable Oral Health Care for Older Australians

It’s time to urge the Federal Government to prioritize the oral health of older Australians by introducing a Senior Dental Benefts Scheme. This initiative, bulk-billed through Medicare, would ensure our most vulnerable citizens have access to the dental care they need, regardless of their fnancial situation.

The Problem: Cost Barriers to Essential Dental Care

Far too many Australians, especially older adults, are delaying or avoiding dental care due to prohibitive costs. Oral health is a cornerstone of overall health, and its importance increases with age. Yet, for many seniors, affording basic dental treatment remains out of reach. Without affordable dental care, older Australians face greater risks of:

• Chronic diseases like dental decay, gum disease, and oral cancer.

• Social isolation and embarrassment due to untreated dental issues.

• Increased risks of diabetes, heart disease, and malnutrition, linked to poor dental health.

The Case for a Senior Dental Benefts Scheme

Recent polling conducted

by COTA Australia in partnership with Essential Research reveals the extent of the problem:

• 37% of Australians aged 55+ delayed or avoided dental care in the past year due to cost.

• 44% of older Australians on lower incomes avoided dental care for the same reason.

• 57% of fnancially struggling Australians aged 55+ delayed or avoided dental care.

Public support for a solution is overwhelming:

• 73% of all Australians back the introduction of a Senior Dental Benefts Scheme.

• 79% believe dental care should be covered by Medicare.

• 89% of fnancially struggling Australians strongly support Medicare coverage for dental care.

A Proven Solution: Royal Commission

Recommendations

The Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety has already recommended a Seniors Dental Benefts Scheme for:

• Nursing home residents.

• Pensioners.

• Seniors Healthcare Card holders living in the community. This initiative would provide critical support to older Australians while reducing the burden on the public health care system.

The Broader Benefts A Senior Dental Benefts Scheme isn’t just about helping older Australians—it’s good for everyone. Ensuring access to affordable dental care:

• Keeps people healthier for longer.

• Reduces pressure on hospitals and public health systems.

• Frees up resources for

those with the most urgent medical needs.

Take Action: Support Medicare Dental Coverage

We believe dental care is health care, and it should be accessible to all Australians, including seniors. If you agree, join our advocacy efforts to push for a Senior Dental Benefts Scheme.

How You Can Help Go to the Senior Dental Benefts Scheme website

• Register your support by flling out the form.

• Stay informed with updates on dental care advocacy and action.

• Join the growing call for Medicare to include dental care as part of its coverage. Together, we can make affordable dental care a reality for older Australians, improving health outcomes and creating a more equitable

IAN ROGERS

The NSW Government has escalated its crackdown on illegal vaping products, seizing over 300,000 vapes in the past year and introducing harsher penalties for suppliers in Parliament.

The new legislation aligns state laws with Commonwealth vaping reforms, aiming to combat the increasing prevalence of vaping among young people.

Tougher Penalties for Illegal Supply Under the proposed laws:

• Maximum penalties

for illegal vape supply will increase from $1,650 to approximately $1.54 million.

• Prison sentences will rise from six months to seven years.

• New offences will target possession of commercial quantities of vaping products and retailer possession of illegal vaping devices. These measures are designed to target suppliers rather than individual users, addressing the supply chain’s role in distributing harmful vaping products.

Signifcant Seizures and Enforcement Efforts Between July and

September 2024, 42,000 vaping products were seized during 362 inspections, compared to 153,000 products from 290 inspections during the same period the previous year. The decrease may refect reduced product availability due to stricter enforcement and new Commonwealth laws.

The NSW Government announced in October the recruitment of 14 additional enforcement offcers to strengthen compliance efforts for vaping and tobacco sales statewide.

Support for Legal Compliance

NSW Health has introduced an eCigarette Compliance Program to support pharmacists, prescribers, and wholesalers in adhering to laws regarding therapeutic vaping products.

• Compliance offcers are conducting on-site visits to pharmacies across NSW, providing education and guidance. Collaboration and Joint Operations

NSW Health is working with the Commonwealth, NSW Police, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), and Australian Border Force to tackle illegal vape and tobacco sales.

NSW Government Introduces Harsher Penalties for Illegal Vape Suppliers Following Massive Seizures

These partnerships focus on intelligence sharing and joint enforcement operations.

Statements from Offcials

Ryan Park, Minister for Health:

“The prevalence of illegal vaping devices in our community, especially among young people, is deeply concerning. We are taking bold steps to address this public health challenge by introducing harsher penalties and removing harmful devices from our streets.”

Dr. Michelle Cretikos, Acting Chief Health Offcer for NSW Health: “We are committed to removing as many illegal vapes as possible, particularly to protect young people. For those

seeking to quit smoking or vaping, support is available through Quitline (13 7848), icanquit.com.au, or your GP.”

Learn More or Report Issues

• For information about therapeutic vaping products, visit the NSW Health website: Nicotine Vaping in NSW.

• For details on vaping reforms, visit the TGA vaping hub: www.tga. gov.au or call 1800 020 653.

• To report breaches of vaping or tobacco laws, visit the NSW Health website.

With these measures, the NSW Government aims to curb the illegal vape trade and its impact on public health, particularly for younger generations.

ROBERT HEYWARD

Council’s commitment to supporting affordable housing in Lismore reaches key milestone

Lismore City Council’s Housing Grant program, offering $15,000 grants to eligible landowners, has achieved a signifcant milestone, with 50% of the $1.2 million funding pool now committed.

The initiative aims to address the region’s housing crisis, providing critical support for new and relocated homes within the Lismore Local Government Area (LGA).

Key Achievements

• 19 applications have been received, proposing 40 new dwellings, including:

o 11 re-sited homes

o 6 newly constructed homes

o 23 units

• The program also facilitates the relocation of food-affected houses within the LGA to safer areas, supporting both affordable housing needs and food recovery efforts.

Supporting Affordable Housing and Flood Recovery

Mayor Steve Krieg emphasized the program’s importance in addressing Lismore’s urgent need for smaller and more affordable housing solutions:

“Lismore is in desperate need of smaller and more affordable housing solutions, and these grants are just

one measure we have in place to assist in meeting that demand. While affordable housing is traditionally the responsibility of state governments, Council has been able to utilise Australian Government funding to facilitate these much-needed opportunities.”

The initiative has been particularly valuable for food-affected residents like Saffron Bond, who used the grant to relocate her home after devastating foods:

“This grant has helped make the move smoother, covering some of the costs so I can focus on getting the house to a safer place. Every cent counts and this grant helps me try to claw my way back to my position before the food.”

Another recipient, Andre Stamatakakos, noted the fnancial and emotional relief the grant provided:

“Having that extra $15,000 meant we could complete things we hadn’t expected to fnish, which took the pressure off and made a huge difference. The process was simple and streamlined, and it’s heartwarming to see the Council investing back into the community.”

Grant Categories

The program encourages diverse housing solutions through six categories:

1. Second Dwellings: For existing landowners building a second dwelling (subject to income eligibility or a fve-year affordable rental agreement).

2. First Home Buyers: For those building their frst home within the Lismore LGA.

3. Flood Recovery: For owner-occupiers of food-affected properties

who have accepted a buyback and wish to build a new home.

4. Relocation of Existing Homes: For owners wishing to relocate their home within the LGA.

5. Community Housing Providers (CHPs): For CHPs or Indigenous Community Housing Organisations (ICHOs) building new homes.

6. Multi-Dwelling Developers: For developers of multi-

dwelling housing, provided they partner with a CHP to manage the housing as affordable rentals for at least 15 years.

Program Funding and Availability

The program is funded under the Australian Government’s Building Better Regional Cities program, which provided $1.2 million to support affordable housing initiatives. The 80 available grants are allocated on a frst-come, frst-served basis until all funds are committed.

Mayor Krieg highlighted the program’s dual focus: “The Lismore Housing

Grant is not just about meeting housing needs; it’s also a lifeline for food-affected residents who want to relocate their homes within the Lismore area.”

Get Involved

For more information on eligibility, categories, or how to apply, visit the Council’s website: www.lismore.nsw.gov. au/Building-planning/ Strategic-planning/ Future-housing#section-2

This milestone underscores the program’s success in helping Lismore’s residents build a more secure and sustainable future.

First-home owner Andre Stamatakakos says the process was “surprisingly simple”.

Cape York Frontier 14 Days 2025

Inclusions:

 Return Transfers from Home to Brisbane Return

 Spirit of Queensland Business Class Railbed sleepers

 7 Night Cape York Frontier Fly/Drive 4 WD Tour

 2 Nights Cairns Stay

 All sightseeing entrance fees as outlined in itinerary

 Small group, maximum 19 passengers

 Fully escorted with a member from Casino Travel & local experts

 Breakfast daily, 12 lunches and 12 dinners

Cape York Peninsula is one of the last unspoilt frontiers in Australia. It remains a wild sparsely populated wilderness, accessible only in the dry season and then only by 4WD vehicles for most of the way. To travel overland to the Cape is still a true adventure allowing travellers to see the unspoilt and diverse scenery, wildlife and birdlife at close range. Reaching the tip of Cape York and overlooking the myriad of exotic and unspoilt islands, is truly an awe-inspiring experience. With only these beautiful waters between Australia and Papua New Guinea, one can truly appreciate the experience of standing on the most northern point of the continent.

Travel Dates: 31 May to 12 June 2025

 Return Transfers from your home to the Airport

 All Economy Airfares

 7 Nights Accommodation

 5 Breakfasts, 5 Dinners, 4 Lunches

 Night Fest and Kiss Bang Cabaret

 Enjoy Floriade and an exclusive gardening tour

 4 Night Sapphire Coast guided touring

Fully escorted with a member from Casino Travel

Travel Dates: 05 October to 12 October 2025

The Canberra Floriade Festival, one of Australia’s most awaited flower shows that has been around since 1988, showcasing Australia’s lovely and colourful array of flora. The Sapphire Coast encompasses the wild coastline and rolling hinterland of the Bega Valley. Immerse yourself in the Wonderfully Wild, explore pristine estuaries, untouched national parks and ancient landscapes.

and

Address: 109 Barker Street Casino, NSW, 2470

Telephone: 02 6662 6255

Email: enquiries@casinotravel.com.au www.casinotravel.com.au

Grape Expectations by Max Crus

Cancel culture cracks credit card limit.

It sounds very National Party/Sky News, but they might have a point, you can’t cancel anything these days.

Yes, recently I tried to cancel a credit card because it used not to have international transaction fees but changed its mind.

That’s the fee banks charge for an instant, automated calculation of today’s exchange rate so that if you buy something on Amazon worth say,

Tyrrell’s Hunter Valley

Late Disgorged Blanc de Blancs 2016, $70. Unlike other aspects of the real world, blancs de blancs lately are outperforming less whitebread rivals by a fair margin. Finer, softer, and with a bit more age, more sophisticated. Vive les blancs! 9.5/10.

Tyrrell’s Hunter Valley Stevens Vineyard Semillon

$10,000USD, the bank will charge $350 for the privilege, yet the computing power and time is exactly the same as for your $5 etsy purchase for which you will be charged 40 cents, and which the banks (all of them) think is perfectly reasonable.

Yet, oddly, at least one institution, which shall remain anonymous, but starts with the letter ‘B’ and could be Bendigo, and with which I have another

2018, $45. The Old Man isn’t a huge fan of semillon, but took a shining to this, as did the other guests, and the host, moi, who thought it was delightful, even in the third person. Its age is barely noticeable, unlike the host’s. 9.4/10.

Tyrrell’s Hunter Valley Belford Vineyard Semillon, 2018, $55. What makes a semillon $10 better

regular (fee-charging) credit card, also offers a no-fee card.

Naturally I ordered one, which was rejected because I don’t earn enough. Huh?

But I already have one?

However, they said I could swap my existing card to a no-fee card.

Why not just stop charging fees on the old one?

“If you’re going to be like that, I will have to report you to my supervisor”.

than another one? Well, the terrain could be steeper, or it might be further from the winery. Or it might just taste a bit better so you can get away with it, like a bank. 9.5/10.

Tyrrell’s Hunter Valley Winemaker’s Selection Vat 1 Semillon 2018, $110. The next question is, what makes a semillon twice the price of another, already

Huh?

Anyway, still had to cancel the frst card, not possible on-line, so I phoned them and commenced another automated process…

“Please tell us your name, address and date of birth”.

“Key in your 8-digit password”.

“Key in your 16-digit account number followed by the hash key”.

“Choosing from the following 7 options, please

expensive one? Lots. Handpicked using kidgloves, crushed between the knees of praying nuns, before being gently drizzled into stainless steel vats full of cushions, bottled and stored at the Park Hyatt Sydney for six years. It’s amazing the price so low. Their fagship is fabulous. 9.7/10.

Tyrrell’s Hunter Valley

tell us the reason for your call”.

“I’m sorry, you have called outside our regular offce hours…”

Then Google said it could be done online, with a new app.

“Sorry, you must have a zero balance to cancel your card”.

Too easy, pay off the balance.

Except this incurred a payment fee of $2.50 thus no longer a zero balance. So I paid that which incurred another payment fee of $2.50. Snookered. Aha, pay $5 and transfer the balance to another account.

HVD Semillon 2018, $45. ITyrrell’s must have more semillon than the rest of the world put together and they know what to do with it. There’s one for you if your name is Steven or Belford or Vat or you know someone with initials HVD. Sorry Harry, I only just thought of that. 9.4/10.

Tyrrell’s Hunter/McLaren Vale Vat 8 Shiraz

“The minimum transfer amount is $500, please try again”.

Struth, looks like the only solution is to never buy anything overseas again. Not an issue with wine at least.

Cabernet 2022, $110. I confess I am not a huge fan of Hunter reds, with exceptions, but chuck a bit of McLaren Vale fruit in the mix, albeit a fruit not renowned in the Vale, and ‘voila’, you’re speaking French and drinking a deliciously full-bodied red. Almost. It’s deliciously 13.5 per cent. 9.6/10.

Max Crus

BREAKFAST EGG AND HAM MUFFINS

5m prep 8m cook

WHATS ON THE MENU THIS CHRISTMAS?

4 servings

5 INGREDIENTS

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

• oil spray

• 4 (English) muffns, halved and toasted

CHEESY PASTRY CHRISTMAS TREE

• 4 eggs

SLOW COOKED TUSCAN BREAD SOUP

45m prep 20m cook serves 8

INGREDIENTS

• 2 x 375g packet frozen Carême All Butter Puff Pastry, just thawed

• 125g camembert, chilled

• 120g (1/3 cup) cranberry sauce

• 20g (1/4 cup) fnely grated parmesan

• 1 brown onion, fnely chopped

• 2 carrots, peeled, chopped

• 2 celery sticks, trimmed, chopped

• 200g cavalo nero (Tuscan cabbage), stem removed, leaves shredded

CHRISTMAS PAVLOVA TRIFLE

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• 1 tsp fennel seeds

• Pinch of dried chilli fakes

• 400g can crushed tomatoes

• 400g can Cannellini Beans, drained, rinsed

• 1L (4 cups) Massel vegetable liquid stock

• 2 thick slices Italian bread (pane di casa), lightly toasted, torn into chunks

• 40g (1/2cup) fnely grated parmesan, (or vegetarian hard cheese) plus extra shaved, to serve

• 1 egg, lightly whisked

• 1 tbsp pepitas

• Fresh thyme sprigs, to serve

METHOD

40m prep 10m cook makes 12

• Bouquet garni (4 fresh or dried bay leaves, 4

INGREDIENTS

• 1 lemon, juiced, zested

• Finely chopped continental parsley, to serve

medium heavy saucepan. Stirring occasionally, bring to a simmer over medium heat.

1. Preheat oven to 200C/180C fan forced. Line a large baking tray with baking paper. Place 1 sheet of pastry on the prepared tray. With the short side facing you, cut from the centre point at the top of the pastry to each bottom corner to form a large triangle. Wrap the pastry offcuts in plastic wrap and return to the fridge.

2 METHOD STEPS

• 2 cups (500ml) thickened cream, whipped to soft peaks

• 100g Vanilla Meringue

Step 1

• 100g Flavoured Meringue

Custard

• 1½ cups (375ml) full cream milk

• 1½ cups (375ml) thickened cream

• 5 extra-large Egg yolks

Set a 5L slow cooker to Browning. Heat oil. Cook onion, carrot and celery for 5 minutes or until tender. Add garlic, fennel and chilli. Cook for 1 minute. Add tomato, beans, stock and bouquet garni. Season. Change cooker setting to High. Cover. Cook for 3-4 hours or until vegetables are almost tender. Step 2 Stir in cavalo nero, bread and parmesan. Cover and cook on High for 30 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly. Stir in lemon juice, to taste. Serve topped with parsley, lemon zest and extra parmesan.

• ½ cup (110g) caster sugar

• 2 tbsp cornfour

• 30g unsalted butter, cubed, softened

• 1 tsp vanilla bean paste or pure vanilla extract

Macerated fruit

• 250g cherries, halved, pitted

• 1 white peach, pitted, cut into 2cm wedges

• 1 yellow peach, pitted, cut into 2cm wedges

• 1 white nectarine, pitted, cut into 2cm wedges

• 1 yellow nectarine, pitted, cut into 2cm wedges

• 1/4 cup (60ml) lemon juice

• 1/4 cup (55g) caster sugar

• 250g raspberries

METHOD

2. Meanwhile, in a large heatproof bowl, vigorously whisk egg yolks, sugar and ½ tsp sea salt fakes for 3 mins or until very pale and light. Whisk the cornfour into the egg mixture, then gradually whisk in the hot milk mixture. 3. Return mixture to a clean saucepan. Cook, whisking constantly, over medium heat for 3 mins or until a few bubbles burst on the surface and custard is thick and glossy. Remove from heat and whisk in the butter and vanilla. Strain the custard through a fne mesh sieve into a shallow container. Quickly cover with plastic wrap, pressing directly onto surface of custard. Chill for 2 hours or until cold and thickened.

4. To make the macerated fruit, in a bowl, toss the cherries, peaches, nectarines, lemon juice and sugar to coat. Stand at room temperature, tossing occasionally, for 30 mins or until juices form. Gently fold in the raspberries.

2. Use a sharp knife to remove the rind from camembert then cut into 3mm-thick slices.

3. Spread the cranberry sauce over the pastry triangle, leaving a 3cm border at the base and a 1cm border along the 2 long edges. Place the camembert slices lengthways over cranberry sauce, trimming to ft, if necessary. Sprinkle with the parmesan. Trim the bare border of pastry from the bottom of the triangle, leaving a piece in the centre to create a 3cm-wide base.

4. Place the remaining sheet of pastry on top of the pastry tree. Cover with a sheet of baking paper and a large baking tray. Hold the trays together and carefully invert. Remove the top tray and place in the fridge for 15 minutes to rest.

“Good food is the foundation of genuine happiness.” -

1. To make the custard, place milk and cream in a

5. Spoon one-third of the cherry mixture into a 12-cup (3L) glass serving dish. Top with one-third of the custard, one-third of the whipped cream and one-quarter of the meringues. Repeat with remaining cherry mixture, custard, whipped cream and two-thirds of the remaining meringues. Chill for 30 mins.

6. Decorate the trife with remaining meringues to serve.

5. Discard the top layer of baking paper. Use a small sharp knife to cut around the pastry to match the bottom layer, leaving a 3cm-wide strip down the middle of the triangle (to form the trunk). Make cuts crosswise, outwards from the centre at 2cm intervals, to create the tree branches. Beginning at the base, lift and twist the pastry branches away from you. Brush with egg.

Auguste Escoffer

6. Cut a star from the pastry scraps. Attach to the top of the pastry tree. Brush with egg. Add the pepitas to look like baubles. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden and cooked through. Sprinkle with thyme to serve.

As the holiday season approaches, and it turns to the 1st of December, gardens everywhere are beginning to sparkle with festive cheer. This year, why not turn your outdoor space into a Christmas wonderland?

With a little creativity, your garden can become the perfect backdrop for seasonal celebrations, family gatherings, or simply a cozy retreat to soak in the festive spirit.

Embrace Natural Decorations

One of the joys of decorating a garden for Christmas is the opportunity to use nature itself. Native

trees and shrubs can be transformed into holiday centrepieces with a few simple additions. Wrap fairy lights around branches, hang baubles from limbs, or drape garlands for an enchanting look. Potted plants, too, can be dressed for the season. Tie ribbons around pots or use small ornaments to decorate leafy greens. You might even create a “living Christmas tree” by adorning a large potted plant with festive trimmings.

For those who love crafting, consider making your own decorations using natural materials. Pinecones, dried fowers, and twigs can be sprayed with metallic paint,

dusted with glitter, or left in their rustic form for a more organic look. String these items together to create unique garlands or hang them individually from garden structures.

Lighting Up the Night Christmas lights are a staple of festive decorating, and they truly shine when used outdoors. Solar-powered string lights are an energy-effcient option that works perfectly in gardens. Wrap them around trees, fences, or pergolas to create a soft, glowing ambiance.

For a more dramatic effect, consider adding pathway lights or lanterns. These can guide guests through your garden while adding a touch of magic to the setting. LED projectors are another popular choice, casting seasonal patterns like snowfakes or stars across walls, fences, or even the ground.

If you’re feeling adventurous, light-up garden sculptures such as reindeer, stars, or Santa sleighs can take your garden’s festive charm to the next level. These statement pieces are a surefre way to captivate visitors.

Festive Garden Tablescapes For those planning

Christmas gatherings, a beautifully decorated garden table is a must. Start with a festive tablecloth or runner, and layer it with greenery such as eucalyptus, holly, or ivy. Candles or LED tealights in glass holders add a warm, inviting glow. Incorporate ornaments, small fgurines, or themed tableware to tie everything together. Miniature Christmas trees or foral arrangements can serve as elegant centrepieces. If space allows, set up a hot chocolate or mulled wine station nearby, complete with festive mugs and toppings.

Incorporate Seasonal Plants

Certain plants are synonymous with Christmas and can add an extra layer of festive cheer to your garden. Poinsettias, with their vibrant red and green leaves, are a classic choice and can be placed in pots around the garden. Other options include holly, mistletoe, or even seasonal herbs like rosemary and thyme, which can double as fresh ingredients for holiday meals.

For a Southern Hemisphere twist, use plants that thrive in warm climates but evoke a

Christmas feel. Think of bright red bottlebrush fowers, festive grevilleas, or even a potted palm decorated with lights and ornaments. These unique touches can create a memorable and seasonally appropriate look.

DIY Christmas Garden Projects

Get the whole family involved in decorating with fun DIY projects. Create homemade wreaths using branches, leaves, and berries from your garden. These can be hung on gates, fences, or garden doors.

Another idea is to set up a “Christmas tree” using a ladder. Place it in your garden and decorate it with lights, garlands, and ornaments. This creative take on a traditional tree is easy to assemble and can be customised to suit your style.

For those with kids, setting up a “Santa’s workshop” area in the garden can be a delightful activity. Use garden tools and a few decorations to create a festive play space where children can imagine themselves as Santa’s helpers.

Welcoming Wildlife to Your Festive Garden

Christmas is a time of giving, and what better way to share the spirit than by creating

a welcoming space for wildlife? Decorate bird feeders with edible ornaments like seed balls or fruit garlands. These not only look festive but also provide food for feathered visitors.

Butterfies and bees can be drawn to fowering plants, so consider adding blooms to your garden that will thrive during the season. For nocturnal wildlife, leave small water dishes or create sheltered spaces where they can safely rest.

Bringing It All Together

As you transform your garden into a festive paradise, don’t forget the joy it can bring to others.

Invite friends and family to admire your handiwork or use the space for a Christmas picnic under the stars. With a little imagination and effort, your garden can become the heart of your holiday celebrations.

So, grab your lights, ornaments, and greenery, and start planning your garden Christmas decorations today. Whether you go all-out with dazzling displays or keep it simple with understated charm, your festive garden is sure to be a highlight of the season.

outdoor

LIAM JENNINGS

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

BEAUDESERT

BROUGHT TO YOU BY BARTHOLOMEW & CO. 07 5541 1144

Fierce Competition for Restocker Steers at Beaudesert Store Sale

The Beaudesert Store Sale, held on Saturday by agents Bartholomew & Co, saw a signifcantly dearer market across all categories, driven by strong demand and recent soaking rain. Fierce bidding for replacement steers resulted in prices that exceeded vendors’ expectations.

CASINO

NRLX CASINO 20/11/2024

The Casino cattle market saw a signifcant increase in supply, with 1,040 head penned—262 more than the previous sale. The offering was dominated by plainer quality cattle, which impacted prices in several categories, despite frmer demand for better-quality stock.

Very light weaner steers experienced a 10c/kg rise, selling between 200c and 450c/kg. Light steers to feed remained steady at 340c to 400c/kg, while background steers of similar weight dropped by 35c/kg, ranging from 230c to 446c/kg. Weaner heifers under 280kg softened by 14c/kg, selling at 212c to 342c/kg, with plainer types weighing on averages.

In the feeder category, light yearling steers reached up to 370c/kg, with medium weights performing strongly at 304c to 348c/kg. Medium heifers sold for 262c to 288c/ kg.

Heavy grown steers saw a substantial price rise, fetching 318c to 354c/kg. Grown heifers slipped 10c/kg, refecting softer demand. Meanwhile, heavy cows were 5c/kg

WARWICK

WARWICK & DISTRICT LIVESTOCK MARKETS – WEEK ENDING 22/11/2024

Cattle Market Overview

Despite some rainfall, Warwick’s main cattle sale proceeded largely unaffected, with numbers up as the year’s second-to-last sale allowed for pre-planned scale replacements. A total of 1654 head were yarded, averaging 310c/kg, with a top price of 419.2c/kg or $2,984.52, generating a gross return of $2 million. Key Averages and Top Prices:

• Bulls: Averaged 297.4c/kg, topping at 356.2c/kg ($1,415.89–$2,984.52).

• Cows: Averaged 261.1c/kg, topping at 295.2c/kg ($1,323.50–$2,328.15).

• Feeder Heifers: Averaged 305.2c/kg, topping at 358.2c/ kg ($1,035.86–$1,452.88).

• Feeder Steers: Averaged 352.6c/kg, topping at 409.2c/kg ($1,314.12–$2,189.01).

• Heifers: Averaged 319.8c/kg, topping at 372.2c/kg ($1,548.80–$2,395.98).

• Yearling Steers: Averaged 361.8c/kg, topping at 402.2c/ kg ($937.35–$1,406.76).

• Yearling Heifers: Averaged 341.9c/kg, topping at 416.2c/

Top Steer Sales:

• Simmental x steers (14 months) – $1,410, sold by Sunkissed Quarter Horse Stud, Warrill View

• Charolais x steers (14 months) – $1,400, account JD Grazing, Dugandan

• Dairy x steers (2 years) – $1,380, sold by Leighton MacNellie, Greenbank

• Charbray x steers – $1,370, account Daniel Banks, Witheren

• Droughtmaster x steers (15 months) – $1,350, sold by Desmond Ruhland & Natalie Daley, Mt Alford

• Charbray steers (14 months) – $1,300, sold by John & Beverley Brehmer, Norwell

Per: Head

• Charbray x weaner steers – $1,260, account Eurara Pty Ltd, Innisplain

• Santa x steers – $1,150, sold by Dean & Tanya Zurvas, Mt Alford

Heifer Sales:

• Simmental x heifers – $1,100, account Sunkissed Quarter Horse Stud

• Charbray x heifers (12 months) – $920, sold by Daniel Banks

Next Sale:

The next Beaudesert Store Sale is scheduled for Saturday, 7th December, starting at 9:30 am. Vendors and buyers are encouraged to attend as the market remains strong.

Statistics By Stock Type

Rivers Livestock Exchange

Per: Kg

Report Prepared At 13:55 Wednesday, November 20, 2024 By MS At Workstation OUTCROSSOFFICE2

cheaper at 252c to 290c/kg, while cows to the paddock ranged from 160c to 265c/kg, with plainer types fetching 120c to 220c/kg.

kg ($1,232.01–$1,907.58).

Sheep & Lamb Market Rainfall signifcantly reduced sheep and lamb numbers, with 806 head yarded, leading to price increases across the board as buyers competed keenly.

Sheep & Lamb Highlights:

• Lambs: Topped at $240, averaging $171.60 (+$35/head).

• Hoggets: Topped at $180, averaging $122.86 (+$37/ head).

• Ewes: Topped at $100, averaging $56.59 (+$10/head).

• Ram Lambs: Topped at $185, averaging $81.91 (+$7/ head).

• Wethers: Topped at $127, averaging $78.58 (+$44/head).

• Rams: Topped at $126, averaging $93.15 (+$35/head). The overall yarding averaged $137.87/head, a $33 increase week-on-week.

Vendor Highlights

• Warren & Wendy Schelbach: Dorper lambs (46.2kg) sold to Ashtons Butchery for $222.

• Wendy & Deon West: Dorper lambs (50kg) sold for $223; hoggets (72.5kg) sold for $160.

• Tom Brown: Dorper lambs (46kg) sold for $219; hoggets (49kg) sold for $138.

• Murra Downs: Multiple lots of Dorper x lambs (30–43kg) sold between $126 and $198.

Despite the mixed trends, demand for well-presented stock remained steady, while plainer cattle continued to face price pressure.

Pork Market

Pork numbers rose in preparation for the Christmas ham market, with strong buyer interest:

• Boars: Sold to $148.

• Sows: Sold from $110 to $395.

• Baconers: Sold from $148 to $190.

• Pork: Topped at $200, with light pork fetching $212–$219.

• Stores: Sold between $48 and $237.

Poultry Market

Poultry numbers were down but the market remained frm:

• Hen & Chicks: Sold to $35.

• Guinea Fowl: Sold to $32.50.

• Turkeys: Sold to $22.50.

• Roosters: Sold to $15.

• Hens: Sold to $20.

Looking Ahead

• Cattle Sales: Final sale for the year scheduled next week.

• Sheep & Lamb Sales: To continue until 11/12/2024. Buyers and sellers alike can look forward to steady demand and strong prices as the year’s markets draw to a close.

CONTACT US - The Northern Rivers Times Rural Edition ✆ 1300 679 787 SALES 02 6662 6222 sales@heartlandmedia.com.au Albury - 02 6080 9520, Casino - 02 6662 6222, Dubbo - 02 5858 4078, Grafton - 02 5632 3041, Moree - 02 6794 3889, Tamworth - 02 5719 1656, Wagga Wagga - 02 5940 8516 Directors, co-owners and co-founders: Jeffrey Gibbs and Sharon Bateman ISSN: 2652-7928 a Genesis Media company ABN: 84 134 238 181 All rights reserved © 2024 Distribution Coffs Harbour north to Southport and west to Tenterfield weekly. www.thenorthernriverstimes.com.au

On World Fisheries Day, Australia celebrates its sustainable, productive, and well-managed fsheries and aquaculture industries, which are leading the way globally in balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship.

A Strong Report Card for Sustainability

Matt Lowe, Deputy Secretary for Agriculture, Fisheries

and Forestry Policy, highlighted the impressive fndings from the 2024 Status of Australian Fish Stocks report by the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC):

• 85% of Australian fsh stocks are considered sustainable or recovering, showcasing the country’s commitment to responsible fsheries management.

“Maintaining sustainable fsh stocks requires good

science and careful management. Australia is a global leader in balancing economic and environmental interests to secure the long-term future of our $3.6 billion fsheries and aquaculture industry,” Mr. Lowe said.

Key Success Stories

1. Southern Bluefn Tuna Delisted Australia achieved a major milestone in 2024 with the Southern Bluefn Tuna being delisted as a threatened species under the Environment Protection

and Biodiversity Conservation Act.

• This success is credited to:

o International collaboration through the Commission for the Conservation of Southern Bluefn Tuna.

o Cutting-edge science from CSIRO.

o Strong management by the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA).

o Leadership within the fshing industry itself.

2. Combating Illegal Fishing

Scaling Up Sustainability in Australian Fisheries

The Australian Government is exploring measures to prevent seafood imports linked to illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fshing, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability on a global scale.

Why Australia Leads the Way Australia’s fsheries management system is built on strong scientifc foundations and partnerships:

• Collaboration with international conservation organisations.

• Advanced research from institutions like CSIRO.

• Effective oversight by agencies such as AFMA.

• Proactive industry involvement to ensure sustainability goals are met.

Confdence for

Consumers

Mr. Lowe emphasized the assurance consumers can have when purchasing Australian seafood:

“Australia’s fsheries sector is committed to supporting a thriving industry and a healthy environment. Both domestic and international consumers can trust that the seafood on their plate is among the most sustainable in the world.

Looking Ahead

World Fisheries Day is not only a celebration but a reminder of the ongoing need for innovation and collaboration to scale up sustainability efforts. Australia’s fsheries demonstrate how economic success, and environmental conservation can go hand-in-hand, setting a benchmark for others to follow.

ABARES Weekly Australian Climate, Water, and Agricultural Update: Week Ending 20 November 2024

JEFF GIBBS

In the past week, low-pressure systems and troughs delivered scattered rainfall across much of Australia, signifcantly affecting agricultural operations in key regions.

Rainfall Summary

• New South Wales: 10–50 mm of rainfall.

• Queensland: Rainfall exceeded 25 mm in many areas, with some regions recording up to 150 mm. Southern and Western Regions: Western Australia, South Australia, and Victoria: Rainfall totals generally ranged from 1–10 mm.

Signifcant rainfall in northern cropping areas has delayed the winter crop harvest and summer crop planting, while limited rainfall in other regions allowed for uninterrupted harvesting activities.

Rainfall Outlook

Upcoming Days:

Low-pressure systems are forecast to bring rainfall across all states and territories.

Eastern and Western Cropping Regions: Eastern areas are likely to see higher rainfall totals compared to western regions. Impact: Rainfall is expected to delay the winter crop harvest across impacted areas.

In New South Wales and Queensland, anticipated rainfall will boost soil moisture levels and support the germination and growth of summer crops already planted.

Global Crop Production Prospects

Variable Rainfall in October:

Favourable conditions: Rice, maize, and soybeans.

Less favourable conditions: Wheat, with

mixed prospects reported globally.

Global Grain and Oilseed Outlook: Production estimates are likely to decline compared to those in the September 2024 Agricultural Commodities Report due to less favourable conditions for some crops.

Water Storage and Allocation Murray-Darling Basin (MDB):

Water storage decreased by 189 GL during the week, leaving total storage at 16,321 GL or 73% of capacity. Current storage is 3,349 GL lower than the same time last year.

Water Allocation

Prices:

Prices in the Victorian Murray below the Barmah Choke fell from $148/ML to $145/ ML between 14 and 21 November 2024. Prices remain lower

in regions above the Barmah Choke due to trade constraints in place.

Implications for Agriculture

Winter Crops: Harvest delays in regions receiving signifcant rainfall, particularly in the north and east.

Summer Crops: Improved conditions for planting and growth

due to enhanced soil moisture in eastern cropping regions.

Global Markets:

Reduced global grain and oilseed production prospects could infuence export opportunities and pricing for Australian producers.

Water Resources:

Declining water storage levels in the MDB highlight ongoing

challenges for water availability, while lower water allocation prices may ease some cost pressures for irrigators. This update underscores the complex interplay of climate, water, and global markets in shaping Australian agriculture as producers navigate harvest and planting seasons.

IAN ROGERS

New Strategy to Enhance Biosecurity in the Pacifc

A groundbreaking workshop in Fiji this month aims to fortify biosecurity across the Pacifc by addressing risks associated with sea container movements.

The initiative will develop a comprehensive strategy to combat the spread of hitchhiker pests—organisms unintentionally transported via sea containers—protecting agriculture, trade, and ecosystems in the region.

Tackling the Threat of Hitchhiker Pests

Hitchhiker pests such as the giant African snail and the Formosan termite pose serious risks to agriculture and infrastructure.

These invasive species, detected in sea container shipments to Australia as recently as October, threaten crops, biodiversity, and structural integrity.

With over 2.5 million sea containers arriving in Australia during

the 2023–24 fnancial year—up 4.7% from the previous year—the potential for pest spread has increased signifcantly.

Regional Collaboration for Sustainable Trade Deputy Secretary for Biosecurity, Operations and Compliance at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Justine

NFF condemns Greens’ reckless proposal on environment laws

Saunders, emphasized the importance of balancing biosecurity with trade.

“The Pacifc relies on trade via sea containers, but we must ensure this trade develops safely and responsibly to prevent the spread of pests and weeds,” Ms. Saunders said.

The strategy will aim to:

• Strengthen

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) vehemently opposes the Greens’ proposal to remove continuing use provisions and ban native forestry in exchange for passing the Albanese Government’s Nature Positive bills.

NFF Deputy CEO Charlie Thomas slammed the proposal as a dangerous overreach that threatens the viability of Australian agriculture.

“This ill-conceived plan from the Greens demonstrates a profound lack of understanding about landscape management and the realities of farming in Australia,” Mr Thomas said.

“Removing the continuing use provisions would bring agriculture to a grinding halt, subjecting every

biosecurity measures for sea container pathways.

• Reduce biosecurity risks to agricultural industries and ecosystems across the Pacifc.

• Support food security and preserve pest-free status in the region.

• Streamline border clearances and reduce costs for commercial sea

routine farm action to a complex and lengthy approval process.”

The NFF explained that the Greens’ proposal on continuing use would:

• create an unworkable regulatory burden for farmers;

• ignore the existing robust state-level regulations on land management; and,

• overwhelm the Commonwealth’s capacity to process assessments and approvals.

The NFF also warned that a ban on native timber harvesting should not be entertained.

“The Greens’ attempt to strike down an entire industry through hasty amendments is just irresponsible politicking,” Mr Thomas emphasised.

“Regional Forest

the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, the World Bank Group, and the commercial sea cargo industry. The event, known as the Pacifc Strategy for the Sea Container Pathway Workshop, will be held in Nadi, Fiji, from 25–29 November.

Funding and Support

The workshop is backed by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, and the World Bank Group.

For more information on hitchhiker pests and prevention, visit the Hitchhiker Pest Program

cargo industries. Innovative Solutions in Focus

The workshop will also explore the automation of sea container hygiene, leveraging digital technologies to modernize cross-border trade processes.

Participants include representatives from Pacifc Island countries and territories,

Agreements are the result of careful, comprehensive processes that balance conservation with sustainable resource use.”

The NFF said the proposal on native forestry would:

• disregard the role of active forest management in maintaining forest health, achieving climate outcomes and managing fuel loads;

• threaten Australia’s timber self-suffciency, which is already under pressure; and,

• contradict the Government’s repeated commitment to support the forestry sector and jobs it creates.

“Every farmer should be alarmed that these proposals are even being foated,” Mr Thomas warned.

- DAFF.

Strengthening Biosecurity for the Future

By developing a unifed strategy to address sea container biosecurity risks, the Pacifc region moves closer to safeguarding its agricultural industries and ecosystems while enabling sustainable trade growth.

“This is not a matter to be resolved through press releases at dawn. It requires thorough engagement with affected sectors and comprehensive analysis.”

The NFF is calling on the Albanese Government to categorically reject the Greens’ proposal and reaffrm its commitment to sustainable agriculture and forestry practices.

“We urge Minister Plibersek to hold the line and honour the Government’s commitments to our sectors.

“The future of Australian agriculture and our national food security depends on maintaining sensible, workable environmental regulations,” Mr Thomas concluded.

NFF Deputy CEO Charlie Thomas

Trainee GP Numbers Rise for First Time in Seven Years, with Rural Focus at the Forefront

After a seven-year decline, trainee general practitioner (GP) numbers are poised to rebound in 2024, bolstered by a 19.8% surge in applicants to a national training program. The Australian General Practice Training program, facilitated by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP), has accepted 1,504 junior doctors into its specialist training program — 249 more than the previous year. This development represents a critical turnaround for GP training, particularly in rural and regional areas, where the need for healthcare professionals is acute. The RACGP, which trains approximately 90% of Australia’s GPs and 80% of rural GPs, reported that 177 previously unflled positions have been allocated across the country. These placements include regions that have not hosted training GPs since 2016, with doctors set to commence practice in early 2024.

Focus on Regional and Rural Areas

The program mandates that over half of its trainees spend at least

a year outside major metropolitan centres, with more than a third completing all their training in regional, rural, or remote communities. This initiative aims to address the maldistribution of doctors in Australia, where urban areas are often overserved while rural and remote regions struggle with limited access to healthcare.

Outgoing RACGP President and regional GP, Dr. Nicole Higgins, welcomed the increase but cautioned against complacency. “We face a signifcant maldistribution challenge. While we have enough doctors nationally, too many are concentrated in cities. Rural and remote

communities endure longer patient wait times, which would be unacceptable in urban centres,” she said. Addressing the Decline in GP Trainees

The rise in trainee numbers comes after years of declining interest in GP training, despite a growing pool of junior doctors. Dr. Higgins attributes the reversal to improving perceptions of general practice as a career. However, she advocates for the federal government to expand the program further, calling for 500 additional training places over the next fve years.

The Department of Health has approved funding for more positions in 2024,

with future expansions under consideration in upcoming budgets.

The Rural Gap: Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the progress, many rural areas remain critically underserved. In north-west Queensland, Dr. Michael Mbaogu highlighted stark disparities, describing how a “tsunami of graduating doctors” has concentrated along the east coast, bypassing inland Australia. “The World Health Organization recommends a doctorto-patient ratio of one to 1,000. That’s achievable in Australia, but not in many rural areas,” he said.

Dr. Bruce Chater, a veteran rural GP

and advocate for regional medicine, identifed “geographical narcissism” — a bias favouring urban opportunities — as a barrier to attracting health professionals to rural areas. By emphasizing the unique benefts and comprehensive training opportunities available in rural medicine, he believes more doctors can be drawn to these regions. “Educating doctors in rural areas for rural practice is key. It builds confdence and competence in skills like obstetrics and anaesthetics that are vital to these communities,” he said.

Changing Perceptions of Rural Medicine

For some doctors,

frsthand experience in rural settings has proven transformative. Dr. Daniel Baum, who trained in Brisbane and Sydney, initially shared the urban bias against rural medicine. However, his outlook shifted after a placement in regional Victoria, where he was given advanced responsibilities typically reserved for senior doctors in city hospitals.

Now practicing in the small Queensland town of Theodore, Dr. Baum has extended his stay and become an advocate for rural medicine. “The opportunities here are unparalleled. If more people understood the breadth of experiences available in rural environments, these roles would be in much higher demand,” he said. The Road Ahead As the program expands and attitudes continue to evolve, advocates hope the increasing number of trainees signals a broader shift in addressing healthcare inequities across Australia. With a renewed focus on rural and regional training, the next generation of GPs may fnally bring long-awaited relief to underserved communities.

NFF Applauds Passage of Mergers Reform Bill in the Lower House

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has welcomed progress on competition reforms designed to bolster investment and enhance competition in Australia’s economy.

The Treasury Laws Amendment (Mergers and Acquisitions Reform) Bill 2024 passed the House of Representatives today, marking a major milestone in updating the country’s merger and acquisition framework to better serve producers, consumers, and the broader economy.

NFF Deputy CEO

Charlie Thomas highlighted the importance of these reforms in fostering a fair and competitive environment.

“Modernising Australia’s merger regime is crucial to ensuring a competitive economy that benefts Australian agriculture and the wider community,” Mr. Thomas said. “A fair and transparent review process protects farmers and consumers from the negative impacts of reduced competition while still promoting investment that drives economic growth.”

Key Features of the Reforms

The new measures aim to enhance Australia’s merger process by introducing:

• Mandatory notifcations for mergers exceeding specifed thresholds.

• An expanded role for the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) as the primary decision-maker on merger approvals.

“Australia’s existing merger framework is outdated and lags behind global best practices,”

Mr. Thomas said. “These reforms introduce the transparency and rigor needed to identify and address anti-competitive transactions, aligning Australia with other advanced economies.”

A Win for Farmers and Consumers

The NFF has actively participated in consultations to shape the reforms and ensure they deliver balanced outcomes across the supply chain. The proposed framework aims to strengthen competition, particularly in sectors critical to Australian

agriculture, by addressing anti-competitive practices while encouraging robust investment.

“We commend the Government, particularly the Treasurer and Assistant Minister Leigh, for their thorough consultation process in developing these reforms,” Mr. Thomas said. “We now urge the Senate to act swiftly to ensure the smooth implementation of the new regime.”

Looking Ahead

Set to commence on 1 January 2026, the updated merger framework

promises to deliver better outcomes for Australian agriculture and the economy at large. The NFF pledged to continue collaborating with government and industry stakeholders to support its successful rollout.

“These changes represent a signifcant step toward a stronger, more competitive agricultural sector and economy. We remain committed to ensuring the framework is effective in protecting farmers and consumers while driving economic growth,” Mr. Thomas said.

ROBERT HEYWARD

Woolworths Admits Shortcomings in Supplier Forecasts During ACCC Inquiry

In a signifcant revelation during the ACCC Supermarket Inquiry, Woolworths has acknowledged shortcomings in the accuracy of volume forecasts provided to fresh fruit and vegetable suppliers. The admission comes after testimony from senior managers, who detailed internal failures in leveraging available data to predict future demand.

Key Admissions from Woolworths Executives

• Amanda Bardwell, Woolworths’ current CEO, confrmed that the supermarket collects extensive checkout data, providing a strong foundation for forecasting future demand.

as they became available, a failure that has had signifcant implications for suppliers.

Impact on Suppliers and Industry

Jolyon Burnett, Chair of the NFF Horticulture Council, responded to the testimony, stating that it validated longstanding concerns from suppliers and industry representatives.

“This is a signifcant admission from Woolworths that undercuts their claims of having the interests of their suppliers at heart,” Mr. Burnett said.

Key concerns raised include:

dealings.

“Our view is that Woolworths’ lack of action on forecasting accuracy stems from a deliberate lack of incentive, with the company benefting from ‘blissful ignorance,’” Mr. Burnett added.

Call for Reform

The NFF Horticulture Council has called for urgent action to regulate supermarket forecasting practices.

Stronger Regulation

Needed:

• The Federal Government is urged to revisit the regulation of forecasting practices to support the sustainability of the fresh produce sector.

Broader Implications for the Industry

Mr. Burnett emphasized that the issue is not just about inaccurate data but about systemic practices that harm the entire fresh produce supply chain.

• The Council criticized the proposed updates to the Food and Grocery Code of Conduct, describing requirements for supermarkets to take “due care” in forecasting as inadequate.

“The Federal Government must prioritize creating a fairer trading environment for growers, ensuring transparency and accountability in supermarket dealings,” he said.

• Financial strain on growers: Overestimated forecasts can lead to oversupply, pushing farm gate prices down and jeopardizing growers’ fnancial sustainability.

• Food waste: Surplus produce generated by inaccurate forecasts contributes to unnecessary food waste.

• They advocate for either more prescriptive forecasting requirements or the establishment of clear guidelines to ensure transparency and fairness.

Industry

Accountability:

The Council has pledged to closely monitor the ongoing hearings and urged the Federal Government to do the same as it fnalizes the updated Food and Grocery Code of Conduct.

• Natalie Davis, former Managing Director of Woolworths Supermarkets, admitted that an internal review found Woolworths had failed to use its data to provide suppliers with accurate forecasts.

• Ms. Davis attributed the issue to not fully applying new data interpretation capabilities

• Lack of accountability: The failure to adopt new forecasting techniques suggests a lack of commercial incentive to improve supplier

• The Woolworths board must investigate how long inaccurate forecasting practices have been known and identify concrete steps to address them.

With the ACCC inquiry shedding light on critical issues in supermarketsupplier relationships, this admission from Woolworths could prompt meaningful reform in the fresh produce sector.

IAN ROGERS

Emissions Information Coming Soon for Farm Businesses

Farmers across Australia will soon have access to commodity-specifc emissions reduction information, thanks to a new initiative under the Australian Government’s Carbon Farming Outreach Program.

The program includes over $1.8 million in Gap Analysis grants, made available to Research and Development Corporations (RDCs).

These grants will identify gaps in emissions reduction and carbon farming knowledge for various commodities and fnd effective ways to share this information with producers.

Tailored Support for Different Commodities

Matt Lowe, Deputy Secretary for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Policy, explained the grants were shaped by consultations on the Agriculture and Land Sector Plan:

“Farmers told us they need more tailored information to reduce emissions specifc to their commodity type,” Mr. Lowe said. Why is this important?

• Different farming practices require unique emissions reduction strategies.

• What works on a cattle farm may not suit horticulture or broadacre cropping operations. The grants will address:

1. Knowledge Gaps: Identifying areas where commodity-specifc emissions information is lacking.

2. Knowledge Dissemination: Developing accessible resources in appropriate formats to build a farmer-friendly knowledge bank.

Empowering Farmers for a Sustainable Future

Mr. Lowe highlighted the sector’s ongoing commitment to sustainability.

“Our farmers are on the frontline of climate change impacts. They’ve been investing in sustainable practices for decades and recognize the sector’s role in emissions reduction.”

Benefts for Farmers:

• Informed Decisions: Clear and actionable insights for reducing emissions.

• Sustainability Gains: Helping meet growing consumer demand for sustainable goods.

• Business Competitiveness: Supporting farmers to remain effcient and competitive in domestic and global markets. How to Get Involved

To learn more about the Gap Analysis grants or submit an application, visit: www.grants.gov.au

This initiative marks an important step in empowering Australian farmers to adopt sustainable practices while meeting climate goals.

Emerging Agriculture Leaders Celebrated at NFF Graduation

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) will honour the 2024 cohort of the National Agriculture Leadership Program tomorrow in an online graduation ceremony, celebrating the achievements of twelve young emerging leaders in Australian agriculture.

Recognizing Leadership and Vision

NFF President David Jochinke praised the graduates’ dedication and enthusiasm:

“The energy and vision from these young Australians is undeniable and contagious. We’re extremely proud of the 2024 cohort and look forward to seeing them excel in policy, leadership, and advocacy roles within the agriculture sector.”

The program, targeted at Australians under 35,

provides participants with mentoring, policy development training, and opportunities to engage with industry leaders and Parliamentarians, fostering the next generation of agricultural leaders.

Participant Refections

Graduate Aline Passos, a research offcer at Pacifc Seeds,

described the program as transformative:

“My experience with the National Agriculture Leadership Program went beyond expectations. I’ve made meaningful connections with my cohort, agricultural peak bodies, and stakeholders who inspired me to lead with purpose.”

2024 Graduates

This year’s graduates

and their sponsors include:

• Rolanda CloutCollins (Upper Hunter Valley, NSW – NSW Farmers)

• Ebony Faichney (Mareeba, QLD –Mangoes Australia)

• Tasmin Rowe (Coolamon, NSW –Agrifutures)

• Haylee Murrell (Liverpool Plains, NSW – NFF)

• Clare Nugent (Roma, QLD – AgForce Queensland)

• Andrea Molteno (Northmead, NSW –NSW Irrigators Council)

• Annie Lane (Lockhart, NSW –Agrifutures)

• Aline Passos (Toowoomba, QLD –AgForce Queensland)

• Stephanie Murphy (Brisbane, QLD – Cattle Australia)

• Emma Harbison (North Wagga Wagga, NSW – Agrifutures)

• Bridgitte Clune (Yuna, WA –WoolProducers Australia)

• Elyssa Giedraitis (Wongan Hills, WA –WA Farmers)

A Commitment to the Future

Mr. Jochinke extended gratitude to the participants, mentors, and sponsors for their contributions and acknowledged Telstra as the principal partner of the program.

“The NFF is dedicated to cultivating the next generation of leaders in Australian agriculture,” Jochinke said.

Looking Ahead

The 2025 National Agriculture Leadership Program will commence in February, continuing the mission to inspire and equip future agricultural advocates and leaders.

IAN ROGERS

IAN ROGERS

Cairns Group Farm Leaders Advocate for Farmer-Led Climate Action Ahead of COP29

ROBERT HEYWARD

The Cairns Group of Farm Leaders (CGFL), representing farmers responsible for over a third of the world’s agricultural exports, has released a unifed statement ahead of the 2024 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29). The statement calls for urgent global recognition of the agricultural sector’s role in addressing climate change and emphasizes the importance of equitable and sustainable trade practices.

Commitment to Farmer-Led Climate Action

CGFL reaffrmed its dedication to achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement while advocating for practical solutions that balance sustainability, food security, and economic viability.

Key proposals include:

• Recognition of Farmers’ Role: Highlighting farmers’ contributions to sustainable land management, biodiversity, carbon sequestration, water stewardship, and soil health.

• Alignment with Article 2 of the Paris Agreement: Ensuring

climate policies foster resilience and low greenhouse gas emissions without jeopardizing food production.

• Support for Sustainable Agri-Food Systems: Promoting multilateral forums, such as the FAO and WTO, to develop resilient and productive food systems.

• Operationalizing Carbon Markets: Calling for the implementation of Articles 6.2 and 6.4 of the Paris Agreement to regulate carbon credit markets effectively.

Concerns Over Trade Barriers

The CGFL expressed signifcant concerns about the misuse of sustainability and climate measures to create protectionist barriers in international trade, which can hinder efforts to achieve global food security.

Policy

Recommendations:

• Avoid Protectionism: Ensure sustainability measures are not misused to restrict trade or impose inequitable conditions.

• Tailored Approaches: Recognize the diverse agricultural contexts across countries, rejecting one-size-fts-all sustainability policies.

• Promote Open Trade: Advocate for agricultural liberalization to leverage

comparative advantages and support global food security.

• Science-Based Policies: Ensure sustainability and climate policies are rooted in evidence and consistent with WTO disciplines.

Addressing Agricultural Subsidies

The CGFL called for a reduction in trade- and production-distorting subsidies, noting their potential environmental and health impacts.

• Cap and Reduce Domestic Support: Endorse the Cairns Group proposal to cap and signifcantly reduce such subsidies.

• Review Subsidy Classifcations: Propose revisiting ‘green box’ supports to ensure minimal trade and production impacts.

A Call for a Holistic Food Systems Approach

The CGFL emphasized the need to consider the entire food chain, rejecting disproportionate obligations placed solely on primary producers.

• Support a Just Transition: Adapt initiatives to national circumstances, acknowledging different production systems and their unique environmental benefts.

• Address Global Food Systems: Advocate for an integrated approach

that considers the full spectrum of production, processing, and consumption.

Aligning Trade with Climate Goals

The CGFL reaffrmed its commitment to:

• Reducing trade barriers to enable sustainable agricultural practices globally.

• Advocating for equitable carbon border adjustment mechanisms.

• Supporting resilient food systems aligned with the UAE Declaration on Sustainable Agriculture, Resilient Food Systems, and Climate Action.

A Global Voice for Farmers

The CGFL’s member organizations, including the National Farmers’ Federation (Australia), Federated Farmers of New Zealand, and Sociedad Rural Argentina, are committed to fostering sustainable agricultural practices while ensuring equitable trade policies.

As global leaders convene at COP29, the CGFL calls on the international community to recognize farmers’ vital role in achieving climate and food security goals, emphasizing collaboration, equity, and sustainability as cornerstones for a better future.

Funeral Notice

HERFORD,

Graham

07/03/1929 – 01/11/2024

Graham Herford, 95, of Ballina NSW, passed away peacefully at Florence Price Gardens on 1 November 2024, supported by the love of his family.

Beloved husband of Pam (deceased); adored Dad of Jenny, Ian, Ross, and Robyn; grandfather of 10; and great-grandfather of 11.

Graham’s funeral service will be held at Parkview Funeral Home, Ballina (livestreamed through www.parkviewfunerals.com.au) at 1 pm AEDT on Monday 2 December 2024.

We request that in lieu of owers, a donation be made to the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

Funeral Notice

MILGATE Marjorie Cecilia

27.01.1923 – 17.11.2024

Passed away peacefully at St, Joseph’s Nursing Home, East Lismore, aged 101 years.

Loved wife of Eric (dec’d). Adored mother & mother in-law of Maureen & Peter Peppernell, John, and Karen & David Goldsmith.

Cherished Nana to her Grandchildren and Great grandchildren.

Loved by the extended Antoniolli and Milgate families.

Family and friends are invited to attend the Requiem Mass for the Repose of the Soul, for Marjorie, to be held at St. Carthages Cathedral, Leycester Street, Lismore, ursday 28th November 2024, commencing at 10:00 AM.

Followed by interment at the Lismore Memorial Gardens Lawn Cemetery, Goonellabah.

In Loving Memory Of

Gwendoline Ilma Ludlow

Passed away peacefully 23 November 2024 at Richmond Lodge, Casino. Late of Stratheden and formerly of e Pocket. Aged 89 Years Beloved wife of Cav (decd).

Much loved mother & mother-in-law of Ron & Paula (decd), Christine & Bob Merrin, Mary, Janice & Ian Radin, Shirley & Doug Bennett, Fay & John Hartley, Bill & Lynda, Peter & Donna, Beth & Michael Moore.

Cherished grandmother of her 34 grandchildren and 40 great-grandchildren.

Loved and sadly missed by all the Ludlow & Fletcher families.

Rest in Peace

Relatives and friends of Gwen are invited to attend her funeral service to be held this MONDAY 2nd December 2024 commencing at 10.00am at St Mark’s Anglican Church, Barker Street, Casino followed by burial at Casino Lawn Cemetery.

Funeral Notice

Funeral Notice

• Guttering: whirly birds:

2/32 Southern Cross Drive, Ballina Lic 303299C and 301815C www.rooftechroofing.com.au

FORECAST

See www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings

Northern Rivers District:

Partly cloudy. Slight chance of a shower. Light winds becoming north to northeasterly 15 to 25 km/h during the day then becoming light during the evening.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the afternoon and evening. The chance of a storm. Light winds becoming northeasterly 15 to 25 km/h during the day then becoming light during the evening.

Northern Tablelands District:

Mostly sunny. Slight chance of a shower. Light winds becoming north to northwesterly 15 to 20 km/h during the morning then becoming light during the evening.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers, most likely

in the afternoon and evening. The chance of a storm. Winds north to northwesterly 15 to 20 km/h becoming light during the day.

New South Wales:

Showers or rain and storms across the western slopes, southeast ranges and parts of the Illawarra and Blue Mountains. Showers about the remainder of the east, tending to a chance of a shower along the northeast. Maximum temperatures well above average in the east, below average along the western plains and Riverina. Westerly winds in the west, tending southwesterly through the day. Northwesterly winds in the east. North-northeasterly winds along the coast, fresh at times.

Thursday. Showers only the coastal fringe. Showers and storms, possibly severe, over the remainder of the northeastern

half of the state. A shower or two elsewhere. Maximum temperatures above average on and east of the western slopes, below average inland. Winds southeast to southwesterly in the south and west, and northerly in the northeast, fresh at times along the northern half of the coast. Byron Coast: Winds: Northerly 20 to 30 knots. Seas: 1.5 to 2.5 metres. Swell: Northeasterly below 1 metre. Weather: Sunny. Coffs Coast: Winds: Northerly 20 to 30 knots. Seas: 1.5 to 2.5 metres. Swell: Northeasterly below 1 metre. Weather: Sunny. Gold Coast Waters: Winds: Easterly 10 to 15 knots. Seas: Around 1 metre. Swell: Easterly around 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1.5 metres offshore. Weather: Partly cloudy.

Clarence River Cricket Association offcials called off all frst grade cricket matches after heavy rain during the week made all grounds unft for play.

All three games: Harwood v South Services/Westlawn at Ulmarra; Tucabia Copmanhurst v Coutts Crossing at Ellem Oval and GDSC Easts v Lawrence at Lower Fisher Turf have been re-scheduled as one-day games on Saturday.

Attention will again be focussed on the topof-table clash between premiers Harwood and Souths/Westlawn.

The shorter format games can throw the form book out the window, but Harwood’s form so far this season still makes them favourites.

They have scored heavily and quickly in all three games played and legspinner Jacob McMahon has been devastating securing 20 wickets.

Souths/Westlawn have ridden their luck to the top of the competition table and will fnd

Harwood a true test of where how their season is going.

While fortunate in a couple of games, their last outing against Easts when they bowled Easts out for 74 and raced to 5/152 on day one to bank the points, was a more clinical effort.

Tucabia and Coutts will be looking to recover some confdence after copping some hidings in the opening games.

Tucabia held on to some points by avoiding an outright loss against Harwood, but they were never in the game as a contest.

Coutts were also crushed when they took on Harwood, so this game will be an opportunity for both sides to fnd some confdence.

Lawrence will need to be wary of Easts, which has a proven match winner in all rounder Shannon Connor. He is explosive with the bat and relentless with the ball and if he gets away Easts can build big scores.

But Lawrence has a heap of cricketing house and won’t be overawed by a few big hits.

In other cricket news a big day is just coming onto the cricket horizon as Clarence cricket goes pink to support the McGrath Foundation and its crusade to fund community nurses for breast cancer patients.

The CRCA has issued an invitation to the community to get down to McKittrick Park, South Grafton, on December 21.

CRCA president

Anthony Dickson said preparations were well under way for a funflled day of watching

local cricket with a barbecue provided. All funds made will be donated to McGrath foundation.

He said raffes will also be run and drawn again with proceeds going to The McGrath Foundation.

“Pop on down bring the family and your mates and have an afternoon of cricket supporting a worthy cause close to the cricket communities heart,” Dickson said.

If you would like to donate prior to the event go to: https://www.

pinkisthecolour.com.au/ fundraisers/Clarenceriver cricketassociation/pinkstumps-day24

The McGrath Foundation raises money to fund McGrath Breast Care Nurses in communities right across Australia and invests in their professional development to ensure people with breast cancer receive the highest standard of care.

The foundation has 233 McGrath breast care nurses, who help people and their families experiencing breast cancer by offering medical expertise, clinical care and psychosocial support, for free.

From the time of diagnosis and throughout treatment, the foundation’s nurses are available to help.

So far more than 143,000 families have been supported since 2005, but the foundation looks to build on that record.

More nurses are needed to meet the growing rate of breast cancer diagnosis in Australia.

McGrath Foundation nurses work across Australia including

many regional and rural centres, where breast cancer treatment and support may be harder to reach.

The McGrath Foundation has become one Australia’s most recognised and respected charities since Jane and Glenn McGrath’s very public experience with breast cancer.

When Jane was diagnosed with cancer for a second time, she had the support of a breast care nurse, who both empowered and comforted her, and her family.

This experience set the mission for the foundation, which has become an enduring commitment: to ensure every family experiencing breast cancer has the support of a Breast Care Nurse, no matter where they live – for free.

We rely on the heartfelt support we receive from individuals, communities, corporate partners and government to continue providing and growing our nurse support across the country and increase breast health understanding.

BALLINA MAHJONG RESULTS –NOVEMBER 22, 2024

A lively session of Mahjong was held at the Ballina Bridge Club on Friday, with the following results:

1. Jan Small

2. Jeanette Henwood

3. Carol Meyer

4. Lorna Simpson, Ronda Taylor

5. Joy Lowien, Lynda Lovett

6. Janene Jarvis

7. Lisa Wong

8. Sally Lowry

9. Vanessa Reynolds, Wendy Thornton

10. Susan Allan

11. Pauline Bolte

12. Ann Hewett

13. Susan Scott

14. Margaret Bryant, Pauline Kearney

15. Cindy Smith

16. Gail McDonagh

17. Coral Lavelle, Pam

Farrell

18. Lesley Richie, Valda McLerie

19. Jan Boardman

20. Kath Hubbard, Yvonne Weddup

21. Jenny Lang 22. Linda Lloyd 23. Jan Henley

Mahjong is played every Friday at 12:30 pm at the Ballina Bridge Club. New and interested players are welcome to join. For more information, contact Shirley on 0423 384 647.

CASINO SOCIAL GOLF RESULTS –NOVEMBER 24, 2024

Jeff Rankin emerged victorious in the Mystery Stableford competition on the Top 11 holes, fnishing with an impressive 11 points. The Putting Trophy was claimed by R. Ruttley, who recorded just 19 putts for the day. Ruttley also took home the Players’ Draw prize, capping off a successful outing. Nearest to the Pin

Results:

• 8th & 11th holes: R. Ruttley

• 9th hole: W. Jackson

• 13th & 17th holes: T. Jenkins

• 14th hole: T. Hook

• 15th & 16th holes: D.

Hampson

• 18th hole: D. Diews

Looking ahead, next Sunday’s event, proudly sponsored by Norco Rural Store Casino, will feature the Monthly Medal competition on the Top 11 holes. Visitors are welcome to join, with tee-off times scheduled from 6:30 am to 7:30 am.

CASINO WOMEN’S BOWLS RESULTS

– WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2024

Three rinks of social bowls were played on Wednesday, with the day’s top honours awarded to the team with the highest aggregate score. Congratulations to the winning pair: Chris Haynes & Denise Skinner, who triumphed over Raelene Skirrey & Mary Mead.

Other Results:

• Jan Cooke, Marlene Jordan & Ivy Watson defeated Tanya Maxwell, Carmel Doyle & Maria Hellyar.

• Kay Jonsson, Julie Creighton & Helen Lavelle outplayed Kay Jonsson, Judy Carthew & Annette James.

Congratulations to all the winners for their excellent play and sportsmanship!

CHERRY STREET CROQUET CLUB RESULTS AND UPCOMING EVENTS

Samoa Golf Croquet Doubles Classic

Congratulations to Norma Watts (Cherry Street) and Helen McKay (Byron Bay) for their runner-up fnish in this prestigious tournament. The full results were as follows:

1. P. Ereckson & J. Solling

2. N. Watts & H. McKay

3. J. Doust & J. Fuller

4. D. Simmons & C. Trembath

5. C. Edlund & R. Mulvaney

6. W. Gilmore & P. Weimers

7. H. Young & A. Jones

8. J. Hannigan & R. Harrison

9. K. Meats & S. Reichardt

10. R. Offey & D. Erickson

11. J. Searle & H. Chalmers

12. F. Duncan & D. Bantoff

NSW Ricochet Handicap Doubles

1. C. Williamson & S. Sellers

2. J. Wilson & S. Catt

3. R. Harries & M. McMaster

4. M. Sawers & D. Bonnitcha

Upcoming Events:

• Lismore Friendship Day: November 28, 9:00 am

• Club General Meeting: December 5, 12:00 pm

• Christmas Lunch & Presentation: December 9, 12:00 pm at Cherry Street

Sports Club

Congratulations to all participants and winners! For further club updates and events, stay connected.

CORAKI VETERANS

GOLF RESULTS

– THURSDAY,

NOVEMBER 21, 2024

A smaller feld took to the course today, but the competition was no less spirited. The day’s winners were as follows:

• Club Handicap Ham

Winner: R. Ellis

• Vets Handicap Ham

Winner: R. Rodda

• Second Place: J. Kelly

• Free Game: K. Osborne

• Lucky Card Draw (Ham): G. Flaherty

Chicken/Ball Winners:

R. Webber, G. Duncan, M. Fairfull, G. Flaherty, G. Tait, J. Celich, B. Wilson Nearest to the Pin:

• 3rd/12th holes: J. Larkin

• 6th/15th holes: J. Sauer

Upcoming Event: Next Thursday is our Christmas Party Day, starting at 9:00 am with a nine-hole competition. The golf will be followed by our Annual Presentation Day and Party. Mark your calendars, and as always, good golfng until then!

TIM HOWARD

Harwood captain Ben McMahon has not been called on for a big performance with bat or ball so far this season, but his form suggests a something signifcant is not far off.

The Minns Labor Government has unveiled its new women’s sport strategy, Play Her Way, a fouryear initiative aimed at boosting participation and retention of women and girls in sports across New South Wales.

Building on the growing momentum around women’s sport, Play Her Way seeks to expand opportunities at all levels, from grassroots to elite competitions, while fostering fun, safe, and inclusive environments for all participants.

The strategy focuses on fve key themes: participation, leadership, culture, partnerships, and investment, with a strong emphasis on addressing the low participation rates among adolescent girls. To achieve this, the NSW Government will collaborate with the sports sector to break down barriers and create new pathways for young females to engage in sport.

Speaking at the launch event at URBNSRF Sydney Olympic Park, where young female athletes came together to ride a wave symbolizing this new movement, the government highlighted its commitment to the future of women’s sport.

This initiative not only supports the next generation of female athletes striving for excellence but also ensures more women and girls can enjoy the lifelong benefts of sport, regardless of their aspirations or

skill level. Play Her Way aims to set a new standard for inclusivity and empowerment in sports.

For further information on the Play Her Way women’s sport strategy visit: https:// www.sport.nsw.gov. au/play-her-way

Minister for Sport

Steve Kamper said:

“Women’s sport has seen tremendous growth and success in recent years through the performances of the Matildas at the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, the success of NRLW as well as the Australian women’s cricket team and the recent Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“But there is still work to do to maintain this momentum and capitalise on the next wave of women’s sport.

“Crucial to achieving this is addressing the low rates of participation among adolescent girls and working with the sector to develop new and innovative opportunities for teenage girls to play sport their way.”

Minister for Women

Jodie Harrison said:

“The NSW Government is committed to providing safe, inclusive and supportive environments for all women and girls to participate in sport.

“We want more women playing sport. We want them in coaching and leadership roles as well, so that sport is truly being played ‘her’ way.

“Play Her Way is our plan to achieve this so that more women and girls can play, and stay involved in, sport.”

Club, triumphing in a competitive feld of 16 racers.

Travis and Harper Dhu, siblings with deep motorsport roots, are continuing their family’s racing legacy as 4th Generation Racers, with a heritage dating back to their great-grandfather Fred’s speedway days. Spending most weekends on the track, the duo has achieved outstanding results in the 2024 karting season, competing across Northern NSW and Southern QLD.

Travis Dhu: Rising Star in 4SS Juniors

At just 12 years old, Travis competes in the 4SS Junior’s category and has had an incredible year:

• QLD State Cup Champion: Travis claimed the QLD 1 plate at the Ipswich Kart

• City/Country Series Winner: This victory also secured him the top spot in the 2024 4SS City/Country Series, crowning him series champion.

• NSW State Cup Runner-Up: At the Lismore Kart Club, his home track, Travis delivered a stellar performance in the NSW State Cup. Despite tough competition from the talented White Brothers, Jarrad and Nathan, he maintained consistency and fought fercely in the fnal, fnishing 2nd out of 11 racers.

Harper Dhu: A Trailblazer for Girls in Racing

At just 9 years old, Harper races in the 4SS Cadet category and is an advocate for ‘Girls Race

Too.’

• QLD State Cup

Success: Harper earned an impressive 4th place in a strong feld, which helped her secure 3rd overall in the City/ Country Series for 2024.

• NSW State Cup Heroics: Balancing her karting career with her Physical Culture competition, Harper returned to Lismore on the fnal day of the NSW State Cup. Starting from the back in her heat and fnal races, she navigated her way through a feld of 10 competitors to fnish an incredible 2nd place.

Family Ties in Karting

Karting is a familyoriented sport, and Travis encouraged his cousin Tyler Neale to take up racing. Now in his second season, Tyler competes alongside

in the 4SS Cadet category, adding another chapter to the family’s racing tradition.

Christmas Event at Lismore Kart Track

As the 2024 karting season concludes, both Travis and Harper will return to the track on 23rd November 2024 for the Lismore Kart Club’s annual Christmas event. This event promises plenty of excitement, including the muchanticipated Mothers Mayhem Race, where mums take to the track to showcase their skills and rivalries.

Travis and Harper’s dedication and achievements in 2024 highlight their bright futures in motorsport, with their passion for karting inspiring a new generation of racers.

Harper

JEFF GIBBS

Travis Harper

LIAM JENNINGS

The highly anticipated 2024 Australian Surfng Awards, incorporating the Hall of Fame, will celebrate Australia’s exceptional surfng talent and the individuals driving the sport behind the scenes.

This year’s event will take place on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at HOTA, Home of the Arts, on the Gold Coast, Queensland.

Among the notable fnalists are some of the sport’s biggest names, including Mick Fanning, Nathan Hedge, Laura Enever, Sally Fitzgibbons, Molly Picklum, Jack Robinson, and Ethan Ewing.

The awards feature 19 categories, recognising not only athletes but also contributions in coaching, shaping, media, and community initiatives.

A Celebration of Surfng Excellence

Hosted by surf media icon Vaughan Blakey, the evening will culminate in the induction of Luke Egan into the Australian Surfng Hall of Fame, honouring his legendary contribution to the sport. Other highlights include the announcement of the Hyundai She’s Electric

THE SPORTZOLOGIST

According to former Australian cricket captain Ian Chappell, the word ‘sledge’ frst reared its head in Adelaide during a Sheffeld Shield match in the early sixties.

Derived from the saying ‘as subtle as a sledgehammer’, it was shortened later to ‘sledge’ and came back to haunt Chappell in the early eighties.

In November 1982, Chappell attempted to sue Mirror Newspapers Ltd for defamation, from articles that appeared in The Australian and Daily Mirror publications.

Chappell said he was particularly incensed by the Daily Mirror story, which

competition winner, showcasing emerging female talent.

Surfng Australia CEO Chris Mater expressed excitement about this year’s awards: “From legends like Mick Fanning and Sally Fitzgibbons to rising stars, these surfers—and many others behind the scenes—are what make our sport so special.

We’re thrilled to bring everyone together at HOTA to celebrate, share stories, and honour the world-class talent that defnes Australian surfng.”

2024 Australian Surfng Awards Finalists

High-Performance Categories

• Female Surfer of the Year presented by BC™

Snacks:

o Laura Enever

o Sally Fitzgibbons

o Molly Picklum

• Male Surfer of the Year presented by Boost Mobile:

o George Pittar

o Jack Robinson

o Ethan Ewing

• Stephanie Gilmore

Female Rising Star Award (Under 18) presented by QAS:

o Milla Brown

o Sierra Kerr

o Ziggy Mackenzie

• Mick Fanning Male

Rising Star Award (Under 18) presented by AIS:

o Kai Colless

o Dane Henry

o Hughie Vaughan

• Female Para Surfer of the Year:

o Emma Dieters

o Jocelyn Neumueller

o Sam Bloom

• Male Para Surfer of the Year presented by URBNSURF:

o Kirk Watson

o Mark ‘Mono’ Stewart

o Kai Colless

• Heavy Water Award presented by Zuum Energy Gum:

o Ned Hart

o Laura Enever

o Soli Bailey

• Shaper of the Year presented by Blackroll:

o Dylan Longbottom –Dylan Shapes

o Dylan Perese – DP Surfboards

o Darren Handley –DHD

• Coach of the Year presented by Surfng Australia High Performance Program:

o Bede Durbidge

o Matt Bemrose

o Pete Duncan

stemmed from a NSW and South Australia Sheffeld Shield match in February, 1980 and ran under the headings ‘What made Lennie mad’ and ‘Chappell’s sledging’.

The story in part stated, “NSW’s fast bowling hero Len Pascoe, involved in one of Sheffeld Shield’s ugliest days at the SCG yesterday, was fred up by a barrage of racist sledging” and “Derogatory references to his Yugoslav ancestry were hurled at Pascoe by several South Australian players, including former Test captain Ian Chappell.” Mr A. B. Shand, QC, for Chappell told the court on Monday that the word “racist” was dropped from the story in later editions.

As part of his defence Chappell pulled out all guns and called former teammates Doug Walters, Gary Gilmour and even Pascoe himself into the witness box to be questioned, which makes for interesting reading over forty years later.

Walters when questioned replied “Needling or gamesmanship which the Press called “sledging” had existed since cricket began”. When asked about gamesmanship, Walters said the new terminology was “sledging”. “It was not necessarily swearing but an effort to upset an opponent and put a batsman off his game.” When asked if he objected to this type of behaviour on the cricket

Media & Film Categories

• Australian Surf Photo of the Year presented by Tracks: To be announced.

• Surfng Australia

Surf Clip of the Year presented by Surfine:

o Milla Brown & Ryan Williams

o Soli Bailey & Chris Peel

o Nathan Hedge & Adrian Emerton

• Surf Film of the Year presented by Channel Nine:

o Jay Phillips Isn’t Dead

o Desensitised

o The Notes In Between

Participation & Community Categories

• Peter Troy Lifetime Achievement Award presented by Surfng World:

o Phil McNamara

o Max Wells

o Gail Austin

• Simon Anderson Boardrider Club Award presented by Jim Beam:

o Northern Beaches

Para Surfer Boardriders Club

o Burleigh Boardriders Club

o Le-Ba Boardriders Club

• Surf School of the Year presented by Cooee Toys:

o Surf Camp Down

feld, Walters replied “No”.

Gilmour also told the court that “sledging” or gamesmanship was as old as cricket itself. He was then asked by Mr Shand if he had experienced swearing on the feld. “I have; it is a common occurrence,” he said. In the context of gamesmanship and/or sledging it was indulged in every game between Australian and overseas players.

Even Richie Benaud was quoted as saying in press reports of the day “That gamesmanship was a legitimate cricketing tactic.”

Benaud added that he had not indulged in it much himself.

Pascoe, who had changed his name early in his career from Durtanovich, under

Under Surf School

o Surfng Services Surf School

o Salty Girls Surf School

• Greater Good Award presented by Kennards Hire:

o Surfng Services Surf School

o Mick Fanning

o Surfrider Foundation

• Breakthrough Surf Brand of the Year presented by QMS

Media:

o Rivvia

o URBNSURF

o Leash Bar

• Indigenous Surfng Community Celebration Award presented by ASC:

o Soli Bailey

o Jordie Campbell

o Russ Moloney

• Sustainability Award presented by ACCIONA:

o YETI

o Patagonia

o Rip Curl

Event Details

• Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024

• Location: HOTA, Home of the Arts, Gold Coast, QLD For more details about the fnalists and categories, visit Surfng Australia. The winners of the NSW awards will also automatically qualify for the 2025 National Awards for Planning Excellence.

cross examination from Mr Justice Begg, stated that Chappell had “not made a racist or derogatory remark” about Mr Pascoe’s Yugoslav ancestry during the cricket match between NSW and South Australia. However, time it appears catches up with everyone and the Mirror Newspaper Ltd.’s representative, W. H. Nicholas, QC, called on countless former umpires and other eyewitnesses to give evidence. This evidence detailed numerous incidents and reprimands from Chappell’s career including dropping his pants in full view of spectators, to which Chappell told the court that he had wanted to adjust his underwear, and it would have

wasted time if he had called another player to stand to cover him. He did not consider his activity indecent.

All of this evidence was quite damning of Chappell’s behaviour on the feld to other players and spectators and it seemed as if the Cricket Board was on side with Mirror Newspaper Ltd.’s case and on a witch hunt to clean up the game.

Even giving the fact that Pascoe himself denied any “racist” comments had occurred, the jury returned a verdict in favour of both newspapers after deliberating for two hours and Chappell was ordered to pay all costs.

We can only imagine the words coming from Ian Chappell’s mouth as he left the court all those years ago.

JEFF GIBBS

Molly Picklum is a fnalist for Female Surfer of the Year. Credit- Tony Heff _ WSL

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