Comment By Tim Howard Page 10
By Jef Gibbs Page 8
By Jef Gibbs Page 12
By Tim Howard Page 2
When is an Act of Disorder not an Act of Disorder?
By Tim Howard
Clarence Valley councillors have clashed over whether an Act of Disorder was properly declared during a heated debate last month, with questions now being raised about the accuracy of the council’s ofcial minutes.
The dispute centres on an exchange between Cr Lynne Cairns and Cr Karen Toms at the August 2025 meeting, during debate on a rescission motion to overturn a mayoral minute approved at the July meeting.
The minute sought to put a line under the twoyear-old saga attempting to get to the bottom of the legal action council took against a community group, Yamba Community Action Network.
During debate on the motion Cr Karen Toms appeared to become concerned that Cr Cairns had contravened the Sections 5.11 and 5.12 of the Code of Meeting Practice.
The ofcial minutes record:
“Cr Toms directed to Cr Cairns that her comments regarding the Motion were accusatory per clause 15.11(d) of the Code of Meeting Practice.
The Chair upheld the Act of Disorder and enforced
clause 15.12 of the Code of Meeting Practice.
Cr Cairns requested a recess to contemplate the ruling.
The chair adjourned the meeting for a fve-minute recess at 12:37pm.”
But the meeting transcript tells a more ambiguous story.
According to the recording, Cr Toms objected to Cr Cairns’s remarks as “accusatory” and called for an Act of Disorder to be declared.
Cr Whaites chimed in, urging mayor Ray Smith
to act.
“So is council asking me to rule an Act of Disorder,” the mayor responded, before reading out clause 15.12 of the Code, which sets out the options once an Act of Disorder has been ruled.
What the mayor did not do, however, was clearly state: “I rule that Cr Cairns has committed an Act of Disorder under clause 15.11.”
Instead, he pressed Cr Cairns to apologise.
When she asked for time to consider, Cr
Peter Johnstone suggest an adjournment and the mayor adjourned the meeting.
On resumption, the matter was left hanging and councillors moved directly back into debate and a vote on the rescission motion.
That gap between transcript and minutes could prove signifcant.
Under the Code, only the chairperson can declare an Act of Disorder.
Other councillors may raise points of order, but it is not for them to “direct” one.
Nor can the minutes record as fact something the mayor did not actually say.
The timing of Cr Toms’ objection adds another wrinkle.
The words “incorrect information” had already appeared in Cr Cairns’ motion when it was submitted to council ofcers.
If the wording was disorderly, the mayor and general manager had the power to rule it out before it ever appeared on the agenda.
And the term had been freely used during debate in the July council meeting.
Instead, it was accepted into the business paper, debated in open session, and only then challenged mid-stream.
To critics, that sequence looks like a procedural lapse at best, or a tactical ambush at worst.
As one councillor noted privately: “If the motion was improper, it should never have been on the agenda. To let it through, then pull the trigger during debate, was unseemly.”
Cr Cairns has hinted she may formally challenge the minutes, setting up a possible confrontation at the September meeting.
The wrangle comes at a time when Clarence Valley Council is already under scrutiny for its handling of dissent and community criticism.
More than two years ago, the council issued legal threats against Yamba CAN, a community action network that had opposed elements of the Yamba development strategy.
Letters from council lawyers accused the group of defamation over statements it made about planning processes.
The prospect of a council suing its own residents drew widespread condemnation.
Critics argue the same pattern is emerging again—an institution quick to resort to heavyhanded measures, whether against community groups or its own elected representatives.
The Act of Disorder episode may sound like parliamentary red tape, but it matters because it goes to the heart of procedural fairness.
If councillors can be recorded in the minutes as having been formally ruled disorderly when no such ruling was made, it undermines confdence in the integrity of council’s own records.
For residents who have watched the caravan park eviction saga, the Yamba planning controversies, and now this procedural muddle, the question may be less about technicalities than about culture: whether Clarence Valley Council has learned to listen, or whether it still prefers to silence those who raise uncomfortable questions.
Cr Lynne Cairns says she will question the accuracy of the minutes of the last council meeting, which have recorded an Act of Disorder ruled against her during debate on a rescission motion at the last meeting.
Northern Rivers Residents Urged to Prepare as Storm Season Commences
Robert Heyward
With the 2025–26 storm season ofcially underway, the NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) is urging Northern Rivers communities to prepare early for severe weather. After a year marked by record-breaking foods, damaging winds and even a cyclone, authorities are reminding residents of the importance of planning ahead and staying informed.
Increased Risk of Flooding Storm activity in NSW typically intensifes between September and April, bringing heavy rainfall, fash fooding,
and destructive winds. The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has warned of an increased food risk following a wetter-thanusual year.
BOM Manager of Hazard Preparedness and Response, Steve Bernasconi, said the long-range outlook to November shows a higher likelihood of aboveaverage rainfall across much of the state.
“Above average spring rainfall is likely throughout New South Wales and the ACT, with an increased chance of unusually high totals in many areas,” Mr Bernasconi said. “The wet winter on the
coast and in parts of north-west NSW means riverine food risk remains high into spring. As we move into warmer months, more rain and heat bring a greater chance of thunderstorms.”
Last year, Tweed Heads recorded 1,693 storm-related incidents, while Mullumbimby SES volunteers responded to more than 1,000 callouts.
Mr Bernasconi added that coastal lows in spring can heighten the risk of damaging winds and fash fooding. He encouraged residents to stay updated using the Bureau’s website and the BOM Weather app.
Community Preparedness
NSW SES North Eastern Zone Commander, Chief
Superintendent Kris McDonald, stressed the importance of community readiness. Last storm season, NSW SES members responded to more than 29,000 stormrelated incidents across NSW, with 5,800 of those in the North Eastern Zone.
“The dedication of our
volunteers embodies the core mission of the SES—to protect lives and build safer communities,” Chief Superintendent McDonald said.
“I urge everyone to take simple steps to prepare their homes and protect their families. Have a home emergency plan, clean gutters and drains, secure loose items, trim overhanging branches, move vehicles away from trees, and consider arrangements for pets.”
Last year, Tweed Heads recorded 1,693 stormrelated incidents, while Mullumbimby SES volunteers responded to
more than 1,000 callouts. Storm Safety Advice from NSW SES
l Secure loose items around your home and yard.
l Clean gutters, downpipes, and drains.
l Trim trees and branches near your property.
l Move vehicles away from trees.
l Prepare a home emergency plan and kit.
l Download the Hazards Near Me NSW app and set your watch zones. For storm assistance, call the NSW SES on 132 500. In life-threatening emergencies, always call Triple Zero (000). Further resources are available at www.ses.nsw.gov.au
Belongil and Tallow floodplains in the spotlight
Robert Heyward
Residents of Byron Bay and Sufolk Park are being encouraged to share their fooding experiences to help shape the future of local food management. Byron Shire Council is updating the Belongil and Tallow Floodplain Risk Management Plan and Study, which will guide planning controls, emergency responses, and future projects aimed at reducing food risks. Project Manager
Josh Wilde said the March 2022 food—the largest on record for these catchments—has been used to calibrate Council’s food modelling. “Before we go any further, we need to hear from the community
to make sure the maps refect what actually happened on the ground,” Mr Wilde said. He noted many residents had already provided valuable insights after the foods, but Council is seeking further feedback.
“We want to hear from people who may not have spoken up yet, and gather ideas on how to reduce fooding impacts in the future.”
Council staf will be at the Byron Farmers Market on 18 and 25
Sales in Richmond Valley
Sales in Kyogle
September to answer questions and speak directly with locals. Residents can also share photos, videos, and personal accounts online through Your Say Byron Shire until 18 October.
Van park evictions twist: test cases ordered
By Tim Howard
The fght over Clarence Valley Council’s attempts to evict semi-permanent caravan park residents has taken a new turn, with the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal ordering a “test case” mediation process.
Under the order, four residents’ cases will be chosen as examples, with mediation to take place before an NCAT member.
The outcome of those talks is expected to guide how dozens of similar disputes are handled.
Simon Chase, spokesperson for the Clarence Valley Semi Permanent Van Group, said the ruling was a step forward.
“It’s very positive. At least we’ve got mediation, which is more than what council was prepared to give us at all,” Mr Chase said.
He argued that while mediation would only cover four cases, the
process could highlight the key issues at stake.
“Every case is diferent,” he said. “Just because they mediate four doesn’t mean the others are resolved.
But it will be a bit of a test to see what the main issues are.”
Mr Chase accused council of failing to act in good faith and warned the legal standof could drag on for months.
“It’s been handled terribly, and they’re paying the consequences now,” he said.
“Mediation won’t happen for another couple of months, then you’ve still only got to the hearing stage, and after that there’ll be appeals. It’s just going to keep going and going.”
He also highlighted the fnancial toll, both for residents and for council.
“At the moment, no one’s paying site fees or electricity,” he said.
“That’s costing council hundreds of thousands a year, on top of solicitor
costs. It’s already in the millions.”
The group maintains that council allowed many of the caravan sites to become permanent through decades of approvals for annexes, plumbing and renovations — and should not now be able to classify them as temporary holiday vans.
“Council themselves have admitted their compliance has been lacking,” he said.
“They’ve approved things that mean these vans can’t be moved in 24
hours as the law requires. That’s on them, not the residents.”
For now, the community waits. NCAT will set a timetable for mediation in the coming weeks, with a fresh directions hearing to follow.
If no settlement is reached, the matters are likely to proceed to a full hearing — and potentially beyond, into the Land and Environment Court.
Deputy President G Sarginson handed down a 49-page decision on September 5
In it he stressed the importance of narrowing the issues and ensuring clarity in what each applicant is claiming.
He also warned that large compensation claims bring risks: applicants could face legal costs if they lose.
“Applicants must understand there is a real risk of costs if the proceedings are not successful,” the decision stated.
The residents, many of whom have lived in the parks for years, argue the notices are invalid and that the council is forcing them out without proper legal grounds.
They have lodged about 90 separate matters with NCAT, most under the Holiday Parks (Longterm Casual Occupation) Act, with a smaller group claiming rights under the Residential (Land Lease) Communities Act.
One applicant, Ms Marno, has sought up to $180,000 in damages for alleged breaches of her
agreement, while others have yet to quantify their losses.
The Tribunal has made clear that residents will need to specify their claims and provide proper evidence before hearings proceed.
The council has taken a hard line, opposing mediation on most cases and stating it has no intention of ofering longterm agreements. Its lawyers argued against NCAT running the mediations, preferring a private mediator, and sought to avoid having the general manager compelled to attend in person.
While NCAT accepted the GM need not attend, the ruling requires council’s legal representatives to have authority to commit the organisation to any settlement on the day. Council has declined to comment on these matters while they are the subject of legal proceedings.
Solar Train
Jef Gibbs
Train lovers can now live out a childhood dream in Byron Bay with the launch of the “Drive the World First Solar Train” experience, ofering half and full-day driver packages on the iconic Byron Solar Train.
The not-for-proft service, which has been running since 2017, is the world’s frst fully solar-powered passenger train. Now, for the frst time, the public can climb into the driver’s seat after receiving full training
from the team.
General Manager Robert Jarvis, who has been part of the project since its inception, said the new experience delivers on one of the most common passenger requests.
“If there’s one thing we hear day in and day out, it’s that people have always wanted to be a train driver. Watching people experience the thrill of driving this magnifcent train is the best feeling,” he said.
For Kristian Wegener, a 45-year-old procurement
advisor and former performance driving instructor from Brisbane, it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
“I’ve driven a lot of vehicles, but the chance to drive a train doesn’t come along—ever! Being in the driver’s seat of that beautiful
piece of Australian rail history was unforgettable.”
Solar-powered rail history
The Byron Solar Train operates on a restored stretch of track, repurposing derelict infrastructure and two 1949-era carriages that were retroftted for solarpowered operation. The service runs through littoral rainforest, endangered wetlands, and across the scenic Belongil Creek in Cape Byron Marine Park on its way into the Byron town centre.
Byron’s train remains
unique on the world stage, with only one other fullsized solar-powered train operating in Argentina.
Packages and Pricing
l Half-day package – $550
l Full-day package with lunch – $960
Both options include return trips into Byron Bay, exclusive merchandise, and the rare opportunity to take control of the world’s frst solar train.
For bookings and details, visit byronbaytrain.com.au
Kristian Wegener drives the World First Byron Solar Train.
Girls Overrepresented in Homelessness Support as Thousands of Young Children Seek Help Clarence Valley hospitals record high activity in busy quarter
By Tim Howard
Grafton Base Hospital and Maclean District
Hospital were among the Northern NSW hospitals experiencing high demand in the April–June 2025 quarter, according to the latest Bureau of Health Information (BHI) report.
The Healthcare Quarterly shows the two Clarence Valley hospitals together saw more than 10,600 presentations to their emergency departments, contributing to what was the busiest fnancial year on record for the Northern NSW Local Health District.
Across the District, there were 228,492 ED attendances in 2024–25.
NNSWLHD chief executive Tracey Maisey thanked staf across the region for their commitment in what has been a record-breaking year.
“Our hospitals across Northern NSW are busier than ever, as we get on with the job of caring for our community,” she said.
“I’d like to sincerely thank each and every one
of our staf for continuing to go above and beyond to provide the best care possible for our patients.”
Grafton Base Hospital
Grafton recorded 7173 ED attendances during the quarter.
While just over six in 10 patients (64.1%) started treatment on time, this marked a signifcant improvement of 7.5 percentage points on the same period last year.
Planned surgery activity surged, with 677 surgeries performed – up 25.4% (137 more surgeries) compared with the same quarter in 2024.
A sharp increase in nonurgent procedures helped reduce the overall surgical waiting list, which dropped by 23.7% across all urgency categories.
Maclean District Hospital
Maclean handled 3502 ED attendances for the quarter, with threequarters of patients (75.3%) starting their treatment on time.
Of those not requiring admission or transfer, almost nine in ten (88.9%) were discharged within four hours.
Ambulance transfers also remained strong, with 91.5% of patients handed over within the 30-minute benchmark.
Performance in other Northern NSW hospitals echoed these fgures
Across Northern NSW, ED treatment started on time for 74.9% of patients, well above the state average of 65.7%.
Discharges within four hours for patients not requiring admission also remained strong, at 81.3% compared with the NSW average of 66.1%.
Planned surgery volumes across the District reached 4,041 procedures for the quarter, a 6.1% increase on the same period last year.
Urgent surgeries continued to be prioritised, with 93.9% completed within clinically recommended timeframes.
Ms Maisey said the district was working to improve patient fow and timely care, supported by new statewide Hospital Access Targets developed with the Australian College of Emergency Medicine.
Jef Gibbs
As National Child Protection Week is observed across Australia, Barnardos Australia has released confronting new analysis showing thousands of children experiencing homelessness, with young girls disproportionately afected.
In June 2025 alone, 28,279 children turned to specialist homelessness services. Alarmingly, 30 per cent were under the age of fve, while a further 27 per cent were aged just fve to nine.
“This should be a massive wake-up call,” said Barnardos frontline worker Eliza Gibbs. “Children are not bystanders to crises like homelessness and family violence — they are victims too, and we cannot stand for this as
Australians.”
Girls
disproportionately afected
The Barnardos snapshot of AIHW data shows girls are signifcantly overrepresented among unaccompanied children seeking help. In 2023–24, 13,300 children presented without a parent or guardian, 63 per cent of them female. The vast majority — 94 per cent — presented alone.
Disturbingly, 77 per cent remained without secure housing after receiving services.
Key drivers
Relationship breakdown, domestic and family violence remain the leading causes of child homelessness. Without intervention, Barnardos warns, children facing homelessness early
in life risk becoming trapped in long-term cycles of poverty and disadvantage.
Calls for urgent action
Barnardos is urging governments to:
l Recognise children as equal victims of domestic violence in law and policy.
l Expand traumainformed counselling and child-focused programs.
l Increase investment in afordable housing.
l Fund specialist child domestic violence workers.
l Lift JobSeeker and income supports.
“Children who endure these unthinkable challenges are at higher risk of repeating the cycle as adults,” Ms Gibbs said. “We must break that cycle for our nation’s children.”
Clarence Valley hospitals record high activity in busy quarter
Flood Repairs to Restore Key River Access Road in Casino Free health checks coming to Ballina
Samantha Elley
If you haven’t seen a doctor for quite some time, then you will have that opportunity thanks to an initiative by Rotary with the Men’s Health Education Rural Van (MHERV).
To be hosted by Rotary Club of Ballina-onRichmond, the van is in its fourth year visiting Ballina and its mission is “Saving local lives”.
Operated by the Rotary Club of Warners Bay in collaboration with Rotary clubs across NSW, MHERV has been on the road for over six years.
The van travels to regional and rural towns providing free health checks to both men and women.
The quick screenings measure blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels, silent health risks that often show no symptoms until
it’s too late and a heart attack or stroke occurs.
While the program originally focused on men, it is now open to everyone, and both men and women in our community are encouraged to take part in these quick and important health checks. The checks are conducted in a relaxed, informal setting by a registered nurse inside the van. Each consultation takes just 10 minutes, with results available immediately, and advice provided if follow-up with
a GP is recommended.
No appointment is needed, just drop in and be greeted by our friendly Rotarians.
Wednesday 17th & Thursday 18th September 9:30am – 4:15pm Fawcett Park (Richmond River end of Moon Street), Ballina MHERV screenings have already saved countless lives and improved health outcomes for many men and women across NSW. Just ten minutes of your time could save your life or the life of someone you love.
Cheaper Home Batteries Program Launches July 1, 2025
This new initiative from the Australian Government ofers a gamechanging opportunity for households, small businesses, and community groups to cut energy costs, boost energy independence, and take advantage of major rebates.
Key Highlights:
• Big Discounts: Get a reduction on eligible battery installations from July 1, covering a large percentage of total costs.
• Stackable Incentives: Combine this rebate with NSW’s existing Battery Incentive (BESS 2), which will continue beyond July 1 and is set to double. You’ll receive six years’ worth of VPP incentives, and SAE-installed batteries are eligible.
• Battery Requirements: Applies to VPP- ready battery systems.
• Limited-Time Savings: Subsidy amounts will decrease annually until 2030, so acting early ensures maximum value.
Why Act Now?
With demand expected to spike, securing your system early means avoiding long wait times and potential price increases. You’ll also lock in the current incentives and ensure full eligibility.
How SAE Group Makes It Easy
• Stress-Free Process: Our team manages everything, from quote to installation.
• Paperwork Done for You: We handle all rebate applications and compliance.
• Expert Advice: We match you with the right system to maximise your savings.
• Access All Incentives: We ensure you beneft from both federal and state-level support.
* Please note that the terms and conditions of the ‘Cheaper Homes Battery Scheme’ are forthcoming, and all information provided is preliminary and subject to official finalization. Contact us for more information.
Jef Gibbs
The Minns Labor Government has allocated an additional $980,000 to Richmond Valley Council for the restoration of Halstead Drive, bringing the total funding to $1.99 million.
Halstead Drive, which runs along the banks of the Richmond River, is the only road providing direct access to the waterway. It plays a crucial role in supporting local recreation, community events, and emergency services. The road was severely damaged during the February 2022 foods, leaving the community without safe river access.
The latest funding will allow engineering works to move ahead, including new drainage systems, retaining walls, gabion structures, and revegetation using native plants. Geotechnical and engineering assessments have confrmed that
extensive anchoring and armouring of the river embankment are required to make the road resilient to future foods.
Halstead Drive is currently on Crown land and not classed as a public road. Once restoration is complete, the road will be transferred to Richmond Valley Council, making it eligible for ongoing funding under the NSW Natural Disaster Assistance Guidelines as an essential public asset.
Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said the 2022 foods had a lasting impact on Casino,
with foodwater breaching the Richmond River banks, inundating the CBD and nearby homes.
“This extra funding will ensure important repairs to Halstead Drive can be completed to proper standards, providing structurally sound and more food-resilient access to the Richmond River for residents,” Mr Kamper said.
Minister for Recovery and the North Coast Janelle Safn said it was crucial to rebuild stronger after natural disasters.
“We know natural disasters are going to keep coming, so it’s vital we build back better with resilient roads that can stand up to future foods,” Ms Safn said.
“The Richmond River is popular for swimming, fshing, boating, walking, picnics and events, so restoring access via Halstead Drive will support a connected and healthy community.”
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Club Evans is the hub of beautiful Evans Head in northern NSW by providing a new, safe, inviting and exciting venue offering great food, awesome and free entertainment, feature shows, TAB, FREE Wi-Fi, Foxtel and plenty of promotions for all our guests.
Surf and Tennis Clubs Receive Grants for Equipment and Upgrades
By Samantha Elley
Evans Head was the recipient of some preChristmas joy last week when Federal MP for Page, Kevin Hogan dropped in to announce some good news for the surf and tennis clubs.
At the Evans HeadCasino Surf Life Saving Club Mr Hogan announced $9000 of funding for three defbrillators to be installed.
“What we are announcing today is three defbrillators ready for use by the public and members of the club,” he said.
“This is a wonderful volunteer club in our community who do much work to keep our people safe and I thank them.
“This is a small token of what we can do to help them in the work they do.”
Club administrator, Teena Redman, thanked Mr Hogan and said the equipment was very needed.
“It will be well utilised in the club especially for our training team as we are trying to get more members involved,” she said.
The next visit was to the
Evans Head Tennis Club where Mr Hogan took to the pickleball court with club members as part of the announcement of $2,900 to upgrade their technology.
David Kirk, club president, said they will be buying a mobile phone and square terminal with
the funds.
“That way we will be able to do eftpos transactions,” he said.
“We will be able to access the internet for our AV system, TV, Youtube and training.
“It will increase our capacity to move into this century technology wise.”
Lismore rail trail flushed with promise
By Samantha Elley
New toilet blocks are opening across the Lismore LGA faster than a vegan out of a butcher shop.
Last week Lismore
Mayor Steve Krieg and Federal MP Kevin Hogan were at the opening of new toilets in Union Street, South Lismore, the start of the Lismore to Bentley section of the award-winning Northern Rivers Rail Trail.
These were the frst, then there was number two at Nesbitt Park Playground, also in South Lismore.
“All across the LGA, refurbished amenities and facilities, Lismore is not only coming back to where we were but growing and thriving,” said Cr Krieg.
“It couldn’t be done without the expert toiletbuilding capabilities of Bennett Constructions, Lismore City Council and our food recovery team.
“It’s a cast of thousands to open a toilet block.”
Mr Hogan said the infrastructure replacements were done to compliment and highlight
the massive success of the rail trail.
“Whether you’re taking the kids to the playgrounds at Nesbitt Park or setting out on the Rail Trail, this is about having modern, clean, accessible amenities close by,” he said.
The toilets at the start of the Rail Trail are adorned with an historic photograph of the railway station from the early 1900s, adding an eye-catching nod to the heritage of the location.
There are nine cubicles including two ambulant and one wheelchair accessible.
Nesbitt Park Playground’s block is designed for parents and children and located closer to the playground. The toilet blocks feature three cubicles, including two wheelchair accessible and one ambulant.
Both projects were jointly funded by the Federal and State governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements at a combined cost of around $800,000.
New Batch of Lismore Buyback Homes to Go Under the Hammer
Another 10 food-afected homes will be auctioned this month as part of the NSW Government’s $880 million Resilient Homes Program, giving properties a new lease of life on food-free land.
The homes, located in South and North Lismore and Girards Hill, will go to auction at the Lismore Heights Sports Club on Wednesday, 17 September 2025, from 5.30pm. A further 12 buyback homes are
scheduled for auction on 7 October 2025
There will be no reserve price at the auctions, meaning bidding can start and fnish at just $1. Buyers have 12 months to relocate the houses to food-free sites. To date, 70 homes bought back by the Government have been sold through relocation auctions, with prices ranging from $347 to $200,000. Most buyers have been locals, keen to give the dwellings a second life outside the foodplain.
Minister for Recovery
and the North Coast
Janelle Safn said the demand for the homes had been strong:
“For some people, this is the ultimate
renovation project. For others, it’s the ultimate reset – a fresh start for the house and for the person who takes it on. This is about making the
most of existing housing infrastructure while helping preserve the unique character of our region.”
Ms Safn said the Government’s priority was to “steamroll the selling of these houses”, to ensure they were removed quickly from the foodplain and relocated to safer ground.
NSW Reconstruction Authority CEO Mal Lanyon said the auctions were central to the recovery strategy:
“The Resilient Homes Program is one of the most ambitious initiatives
undertaken after a disaster in Australia. These auctions are helping to give homes a second life while contributing to a safer, stronger and more resilient Northern Rivers.”
Around 1,600 homeowners across the Northern Rivers remain eligible for the program, which includes options to raise, retroft, or voluntarily sell foodafected properties. More details, including photos of the homes up for auction, can be found at Walmurray & Associates Real Estate.
Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg and Federal MP Kevin Hogan cut the ribbon as they are watched on by Bennetts Construction employees and Cr Jerry Hall.
Jef Gibbs
108 Laurel Avenue Lismore. Photo Wal Murray ©
Surf Club grants - Club member Ben Redman, Federal MP Kevin Hogan, Club administrator Teena Redman, club members Elyse McMaster and David Sly.
Tennis Club grants - Kevin Hogan on the pickle ball court.
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Charlie Kirk’s Death and the dangers of political polarisation
Comment
By Tim Howard
It is tempting to treat the assassination of US rightwing frebrand Charlie Kirk in his own terms. He relished provocation, dismissed empathy as a “new-age” weakness, and insisted that some people would need to die to preserve America’s right to bear arms.
Now he himself has died by gunfre, and his words hang in the air with bitter irony.
But I cannot help but picture the scene the morning of his death: Kirk at breakfast with his wife and children, talking about the day ahead, sharing laughter and ordinary
comforts. That family is now shattered. Whatever their beliefs, that is sad. And yet here is the paradox: the philosophies Kirk espoused worked to restrict the very possibility of similar comfort for others.
His rejection of gun control meant other families would go without the safety he took for granted.
His dismissal of empathy meant denying dignity to people who needed it most.
In life, his politics narrowed the circle of opportunity; in death, his family’s grief reminds us of what so many others have lost.
There are other paradoxes too.
The death he foresaw, but not his own. Kirk claimed some lives must be sacrifced for the Second Amendment, but imagined those deaths happening to others. His own killing exposes the fragility of that logic.
No empathy in life, sympathy in death. He mocked compassion as a weakness, yet his supporters now demand it for his family.
Violence tolerated until it cuts close. He minimised or excused violence when Democrats were attacked, yet his own assassination has provoked outrage and calls for vengeance. And perhaps most dangerously: martyrdom. Alive, Kirk’s arguments could be challenged and rebutted.
Dead, he risks being sanctifed as a conservative martyr, untouchable in death in ways he never was in life. That is where the real danger lies.
History teaches that political assassination almost never delivers the results its perpetrators intend.
Caesar’s killers sought to preserve the Republic but paved the way for Empire.
The death of Archduke Franz Ferdinand was supposed to serve Serbian nationalism; instead, it triggered a world war.
Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X were gunned down in attempts to silence them, but their voices only grew stronger.
Assassination may kill a man, but it rarely kills an idea.
The tragedy here is not Kirk’s death alone.
On the same day, a school shooting claimed the lives of children and teachers — people who had no podiums, no followers, no protection. Their deaths are tragedies in the fullest sense, and they might have been prevented by the very reforms Kirk fought so fercely to block.
The United States is now locked in a cycle of polarisation where
violence feels less and less unthinkable.
Kirk’s death will be used as proof by both sides of the other’s depravity.
And each turn of the wheel takes the nation further from the possibility of democratic debate, closer to the abyss where politics is decided not by ballots but by bullets.
Polarisation on this scale may feel like an American problem, but Australia is not immune.
We too have seen debates over guns, race, climate and culture harden into battles where opponents are treated as
enemies rather than fellow citizens.
The antics of Jacinta Nampijinpa Price in the same week Kirk was gunned down provide us with an example of politicians here who trade in outrage and division for short-term gain.
The lesson from Kirk’s death is not about one man or one country. It is about what happens when politics becomes so toxic that violence feels inevitable. That is the road to ruin for any democracy. If we are wise, we will heed the warning before our own fres are lit.
Charlie Kirk’s Death and the dangers of political polarisation
From Woodburn to the World
Oh! for OzHarvest Launch Turns Waste into Taste
Jef Gibbs
A small Northern Rivers community has taken the spotlight in the national fght against food waste with the launch of the Oh! for OzHarvest product range, created by OzHarvest Ventures. The new line features rescued produce transformed into drinks and condiments, including Oh! Lemonaid, Oh! Jams and Oh! Chilli Sauce, ofcially unveiled on the Woodburn property of citrus farmer Rob McLean McLean, who has been farming citrus on his Rocky Mouth Creek property for more than two decades, saw tonnes of lemons go to waste after repeated foods left much of his crop
imperfect for commercial buyers. “Food outlets were no longer interested in my lemons because they weren’t perfect,” he said. “Now, thanks to OzHarvest Ventures, those lemons have a new life. Every time someone enjoys Oh! Lemonaid, OzHarvest feeds someone in need.
Knowing it’s even being served at Capella Sydney gives me the tingles.”
The Oh! for OzHarvest range has been developed in partnership with Second Squeeze, a company specialising in upcycling surplus produce. Cofounder Michael Paull, a former food scientist, said the collaboration was about reimagining waste.
“We take what others overlook and turn it into
WOW
DV Recovery
Expressive Arts Workshop for women, on Saturday 1st November at the Murwillumbah Community Centre.
I am a highly experienced social worker partnering with the Centre, to provide this lowcost program or no cost (for women who cannot aford this fee) program. Research shows 1 in 4 women experience Domestic Violence (DV) in Australia and the psycho-social impacts of DV can be lasting, afecting women's health, confdence and relationships. However,
favour worth celebrating. When OzHarvest Ventures suggested unloved lemons could become lemonade, we jumped at the chance. Now Oh! Lemonaid comes in three refreshing favours—Sparkling Lemon, Lemon-Ginger Twist and LemonStrawberry Splash.”
OzHarvest founder Ronni Kahn AO said launching the range in the Northern Rivers carried special signifcance. “This community has faced immense challenges, yet continues to grow and provide. To launch Oh! Lemonaid right here, surrounded by Rob’s lemons, is a celebration of resilience, local farming and the power of community.”
funding for recovery is very limited; our program is unfunded, hence a small fee is requested however if cost is a barrier to attending then please contact Dr Kate Costigan on PH: 0400 000 968, fee waiver is
possible. There is no other program like this available in the area. The focus is on creative play, celebrating resilience and connecting with our inner wisdom and other women. All ages welcomed. No arts experience necessary.
Every can, jar or bottle in the new Oh! range contributes to multiple impacts: supporting farmers like McLean, saving produce from landfll, and funding a meal for someone in need through OzHarvest’s national food rescue program.
Alongside the lemonaid crafted from Woodburn lemons, Oh! Jams feature rescued berries from Victoria’s Yarra Valley, while Oh! Chilli Sauce uses surplus tomatoes and cayenne chillies. The
products are available through selected cafés, restaurants and venues nationwide, and can also be purchased online for home delivery.
With each sip, spread or splash, the Northern Rivers is leading the way in showing that food is far too precious to waste— proving that imperfect fruit can create something both delicious and lifechanging. For stockists or to order online, visit shop. ozharvest.org
Celebrate Culture, Creativity and Community in Murwillumbah
Murwillumbah will come alive on Saturday 20 September 2025 as two much-loved events— the 10th anniversary Kinship Festival and the Makers & Finders Market—bring a full day of culture, creativity and connection to Knox Park From 10am, the Kinship Festival, an Aboriginal communityled celebration on Bundjalung Country, marks a decade of storytelling and togetherness. The program opens with a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony, followed by corroboree, live music, Aboriginal artisan markets and a host of children’s activities.
A community fashmob will be a highlight of this year’s milestone event, set to bring the park to life. Running alongside the festival, the Makers
& Finders Market returns as a bustling hub of Northern Rivers creativity. Held every third Saturday of the month, the market gathers local makers, farmers, artists, recyclers and vintage collectors— ofering everything from fresh produce and handmade wares to pre-loved treasures and vintage fnds. With live music, green spaces for picnics and play areas for children, it’s a whole-of-community experience that celebrates sustainability through reusing, repurposing and reducing Tweed Shire Council
Mayor Chris Cherry said both events refect the strengths and values of the Tweed.
“These events are wonderful examples of what makes the Tweed special – a community
that values connection, culture and creativity,” Cr Cherry said.
“I especially want to thank the people behind the Kinship Festival, which this year reaches its 10-year milestone. The Festival continues to bring people together to honour the richness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture. Council is proud to support this Festival, which celebrates Bundjalung Country and helps build a vibrant and thriving community that is a great place to live and visit.”
Event details
= Where: Knox Park, 24 Brisbane St, Murwillumbah
= Kinship Festival: 10am–4pm
= Makers & Finders
Market: 9am–2pm
= Entry: Free to both events
Oh! for OzHarvest Lemonaid Range
Inclusions:
Return Transfers from home to airport*
Return Domestic Airfares ex Gold Coast
Rinadeena Train Trip, Maria Island Cruise, Wineglass Bay Cruise and the spectacular Bruny Island Cruise
Quality Accommodation throughout with breakfast daily
All sightseeing and entrance fees as per itinerary
Daily Breakfast, 5 Dinners and 5 lunches
Explore the best Tasmania has to offer with a professional guide
Escorted by a Casino Travel Shoppe Staff Member
Travel Dates: 05 February to 16 February 2026
Embark on an unforgettable journey around the stunning island of Tasmania, where you’ll dive into its rich convict history and indulge in its exquisite local produce. Discover the vibrant city of Hobart and its iconic Salamanca Markets. Venture to Port Arthur and be awe-struck by its historical significance and breathtaking scenery. Enjoy a day trip to Maria Island and drive along the picturesque East Coast to explore the pristine Bay of Fires and Wine Glass Bay. Savor Launceston and be enchanted by the beauty of Cradle Mountain. Experience the rugged charm of Queenstown. This trip offers an unforgettable blend of history, nature and culinary delights.
Inclusions:
UNITED KINGDO & IRELAND 23 DAY ESCORTED GROUP TOUR 2026
Return Transfers from your home to the Airport*
All International Economy Airfares on 5* airline
20 Nights’ Accommodation in quality accommodation
Breakfast Daily, 14 Dinners, 5 Lunches
Stay in centrally situated hotels in London, Edinburgh, Dublin & Belfast
All sightseeing and entry fees per itinerary
Professionally guided city and historical sights tours
Dive into Beatles history on an unforgettable walking tour of Liverpool!
Escorted by a Casino Travel Shoppe Staff Member
Travel Dates: 06 May to 29 May 2026
Embark on an unforgettable journey of the United Kingdom and Ireland, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Wander through England’s royal landmarks, Scotland’s dramatic Highlands, Northern Ireland’s legendary Giant’s Causeway, and the Republic of Ireland’s lively pubs and rolling green countryside. Together, they create a once-in-a-lifetime journey filled with castles, traditions, music, and breathtaking scenery. Hurry, limited spaces available!
Shop Second Hand this Saturday 20th September!
This Saturday 20 September the Northern Rivers community will be buzzing as the biggest garage sale day of the year returns - Second Hand Saturday!
The day will see over 300 residents across the North Coast rolling up their garage doors, decorating carports and adorning front lawns with pre-loved treasures ready to fnd a new home.
Now in it’s 20th year, the mass garage sale event coordinated by North East Waste on behalf of Council, encourages residents to buy, sell, swap or donate pre-loved goods instead of buying new.
“Whether you're an avid bargain hunter, a vintage collector, or someone looking to reduce waste, this is the perfect opportunity to do a bit of guilt-free shopping for a fraction of the usual cost and the satisfaction that you’re supporting reuse rather than landfll. “ said Linda Tohver, Education Coordinator with NE Waste.
“Garage sales are still very popular,” said Ms Tohver. “The joy in garage sale shopping is not just fnding bargains, and saving money, but it’s also about connecting with community, having a yarn with the neighbours - something that simply doesn’t happen with online shopping.”
From huge multi-
household joint sales, camping and caravanning, tools, antiques and plenty of backyard bargainsthere’s something for everyone!
Bargains at Bentley is worth the drive out of town if you are after general bric a brac, furniture and plants. If you are a sports car or a Harley Davidson fan, the joint garage sale in Lakeside Drive, Casino is one you will not want to miss! In Geneva, three household's worth of treasures including a Juke Box, cameras and lots and lots of jewellery - both costume and real will be on ofer.
The neighbouring Council areas of Lismore, Tweed, Ballina, Byron and Clarence Valley all have garage sales as well with incredible pre-loved goods
and treasures for sale. How to plan your pre-loved shopping adventure
A full list of addresses can be found in this paper, with more details including what’s on ofer, photos and maps available at www. secondhandsaturday.com. au or on the free Second Hand Saturday app. Alternatively, check the Second Hand Saturday facebook page @ mysecondhandsaturday to stay in the loop with what’s happening on the day and to further promote your own garage sales! This project is a NSW Environment Protection Authority Waste and Sustainable Materials Strategy initiative, funded from the waste levy.
Reece-horse (red suit), loves a bargain and a yarn and will be out at Second Hand Saturday garage sales across the region.
$20,493 BOOST FOR LOWER CLARENCE ROWING CLUB
The Lower Clarence Rowing Club at Maclean has been successful in securing a $20,493 grant from the NSW Government to refurbish its launching ramp, ensuring safer access to the river for people of all ages and abilities, Clarence Nationals MP, Richie Williamson has announced.
Mr Williamson said the funding, secured under the Community Building Partnerships Program, would make a meaningful diference to the safety and inclusivity of the club’s facilities.
“I was delighted to visit the Lower Clarence Rowing Club recently to announce this funding and see frsthand the passion and commitment of its members,” Mr Williamson said.
“This upgrade will
provide a safe, nonslip surface for rowers, volunteers, and school students who use the ramp. It’s a practical improvement that will not only reduce risks but also encourage more people to get involved in rowing and community sport.
“The Rowing Club does an outstanding job
fostering ftness, inclusion, and teamwork, and I’m proud to support this muchneeded project.”
Club President Libby Cormick said the grant will have a lasting impact.
“On behalf of the Lower Clarence Rowing Club, I sincerely thank Richie Williamson and the NSW Government for this
funding. The upgrade will improve accessibility to the river and provide a safer experience for our rowers, volunteers, and visiting schools,” Ms Cormick said.
“The upgrade will assist us in building a stronger sporting community and promoting health, inclusion, and teamwork across all age groups.”
Northern Rivers Community to Help Shape First-Ever Disaster Adaptation Plan
Residents across the Northern Rivers are being invited to have their say in shaping the region’s frst Disaster Adaptation Plan , with a series of public workshops set to run through September and October.
Delivered by Living Lab Northern Rivers in partnership with the NSW Reconstruction Authority , the What Matters Most workshops will give locals the chance to share their experiences, concerns, and priorities for building resilience to natural hazards such as foods, bushfres, storms, and coastal erosion. The Northern Rivers has one of the highest natural hazard risk profles in NSW. Recent fooding from ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred highlighted the urgency of planning for a changing climate, with future disasters expected to intensify in frequency and severity. Community voices at the centre
The Minns Government says the plan will provide a long-term framework to reduce disaster risks and prepare communities for natural hazards. It will include an analysis of the region’s exposure and vulnerability, along with
practical actions to reduce risks where possible and adapt where necessary.
Living Lab Engagement Director, Dan Etheridge, said the new approach puts community priorities front and centre.
“Sometimes what communities care most about isn’t what the data suggests they should worry about most,” Mr Etheridge said. “The methodology behind these workshops is entirely new, designed specifcally for this process after research showed no existing tools for mapping community place-based values.”
Call for participation
Alongside the workshops, expressions of interest are open for community members to join a 40person reference group to help guide the Disaster Adaptation Plan.
Minister for Recovery and North Coast, Janelle Safn, urged locals to get involved.
“Our region has lived through the devastation disasters can cause, and now is the time to plan for a resilient future,” she said.
“Government can’t do it alone; we need community insight and leadership to adapt to future risk.”
Resilient Lismore’s
Maddy Braddon added that inclusive engagement is critical:
“It’s important that community members have genuine opportunities to participate in decisionmaking that directly impacts where we live.”
Workshop details
The free sessions are open to all residents, with accessibility needs accommodated.
Registration is essential due to limited places.
• Murwillumbah – M|Arts Precinct, 105 Wollumbin St — Wednesday 24 September 2025,
5–7.30pm
• Grafton – Grafton District Services Club, 105–107 Grafton St — Tuesday 7 October 2025, 5–7.30pm
• Mullumbimby – Civic Memorial Hall, 55 Dalley St — Thursday 9 October 2025, 5–7.30pm
• Lismore – The Campus Grind Café, Southern Cross University — Thursday 16 October 2025, 5–7.30pm How to take part
Residents can register for workshops at: llnr.com.au/ what-we-do/what-mattersmost-workshops-2025
AKUBRA R.M WILLIAMS DR MARTENS SKECHERS
CROCS
A deadly secret revealed when a murder occurs
Title: The Wife and the Widow
Author: Christian White Price: $20.35
Distributor: Booktopia
Reviewed by: Samantha Elley
With a Christian White book, you don’t actually read it, you consume it!
Picture yourself, reading this book late at night in bed, needing to turn the light of to go to sleep for work but each page sucks you deeper in.
Yep, it’s a crime thriller.
The story is based around two families.
One is a local family on Belleport Island, a summer holiday location that is basically shut up over winter, with only a small handful of the community staying put.
The other family live in Melbourne and have a summer holiday place on Belleport Island.
As the story unfolds, the two women in these families – Abby the local and Kate from Melbourne – fnd themselves needing to investigate some hard truths about their husbands. The lives become entwined in an extraordinary and unexpected way.
Now, everything is not as it seems and readers will need to be on their game to work out what is going on...possibly a difcult task when you are yawning because the time is so late and you still haven’t put the book down. You will not want to pass this book up if you love a good twist and an attention catching story.
Christian White is an Australian author and screen writer and The Wife and The Widow is his second book.
His frst book, The Nowhere Child (reviewed in this column) has been shortlisted for major awards, including the Australian Book Industry Awards’ General Fiction Book of the Year and Matt Richell Award for New Writer of the Year.
You can get your copy of The Wife and The Widow from www.booktopia. com.au
Lower Clarence Rowing Club
“Leemo has views on just about anything”
THE 1ST AGM of
‘BUDDIESInc’
‘Leemo Cat’ here. ‘Mum, Jane’ did you put a notice in the paper as is required regarding our 1st ‘BuddiesInc’ AGM? Well? ‘Not yet Leems but I do not intend to allow any feline who is not a registered & paid-up Member of ‘BuddiesInc’ to vote, gottit? And, Leems, whilst we are on the subject, could you give me a wee brief on the Agenda: and as you’ve asked me to Scrutineer the vote count I want profles on Candidates. (we were all present: Me, ’Pasqualie’, ‘FlufyBum’, Scarlet’, ‘Brutus’, ‘Treasure’, + 3 Members who only turn up when they feel like it. (‘Ginger’, ‘Russell’ & ‘Rosie’.) Hmmmm? (CRIKEY,,,I DO worry about Mum’s mind since her oldageing stuf: even a dumb witted semi-blind Wombat would suss out in the blink of his bad eye that with only 9 Members he ‘d fgure out real quick how the vote was going but best I say NOTHING!)
‘Well, Mum, there are 3 positions to be decided: President, Secretary & Treasurer. ‘I’ am nominating as ‘President Leemo’ but some hissy parley is going on about the Secretary & Treasurer roles. ‘Pasqualie’ wants to be the secretary so she can wear short skirts, too much makeup, fle her nails & shop on TEMU all day & do ZILCH else. AND, Mum, ‘Flufy Bum’ has nominated for Treasurer
which worries me ‘cos he can’t even count how many beans he has on his 4 paws let alone reconcile the counting of our Money Jar. Ooooh, I’m worried Mum.’ I got a hug & SHE bought ME a cup of tea for a change! Whoohoo! ‘OK Leems, don’t stress, let’s together look at the Candidate Profles.’ Pasqualie’s was frst. Her profle states she is amply qualifed to fll the role of Secretary as her social connections alone make her invaluable to any organisation. She has experience in hosting events with fair, sophistication & stuf. MUM interrupted: ‘Leems, but can she do Minutes of meetings and send them to Members as this is VIP?’ Hmmm! ‘Errrm, not sure Mum, but should she be elected I’m quite sure she’ll do an outstanding job of ‘something or other.’ Let’s move on to ‘Flufs’ as Treasurer –OK?’ (Mum’s face was taking on the look of a crabby overdried prune: I ignored her.) ‘Hmm. Flufs states in his profle that whilst he may not be able to count his paw beans (‘cos he needs glasses) he DOES know how to count money & has stated that all loot received or expended via the ‘BuddiesInc’ Money Jar will be accounted for with accuracy.’ WHOOHOO! An exasperated shout emanated from the old Woman. ‘RIGHT YOU LOT. Enough! You can cancel this meeting & simply vote on just 1 thing, all of you: ARE YOU BUDDIES? Paw raises please! (paws were raised in unison.) So, in essence, no meeting is required really is it? If you’re all buddies it means there is trust between you and that’s all it takes to make ‘BuddiesInc’ a nifty group to belong to. Do you feel like treats & watching Billy Connelly talk about Wildebeest?’ Unanimous purrs & snuggles. Leemo+BuddiesInc
Letters to the Editor
Have your say in The Northern Rivers Times!
We welcome your feedback, opinions, praise, concerns, and reflections on local issues, events, and stories.
Send your letters to: Jeff Gibbs letters@heartlandmedia. com.au
Deadline: Fridays at noon
Please include your name, address, and phone number for verification purposes (not for publication).
The Northern Rivers Times is committed to providing a platform for diverse community voices. The views expressed in letters are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher, editors, or staff. Letters may be edited for length or clarity. Offensive or defamatory content will not be published.
Council’s Spin on Primex is Rubbish
So now Richmond Valley Council wants to peddle the line that “ratepayers paid for the Primex land”? What a load of rubbish.
The Wright family has paid $25,000 a year in rates on that property — money straight from their pockets, not the council’s.The truth is simple: Primex thrived for decades under private ownership and hard work, not because of council interference. And when RVC’s councillors and GM made life impossible, Primex did the sensible thing and moved to Lismore.The real losers are Casino’s ratepayers and businesses who relied on the event for jobs, trade, and recognition. Instead of spreading rumour and innuendo, council should admit its failure. They’ve become experts at spin, but hopeless at delivery.
“Perftic” is the only word for it — and I reckon most ratepayers already know it.
— J. McKenzie, Casino Koala
may look good on paper, but it spells ruin for our forestry families. These are real people with bills to pay, not just numbers in a report. Without sustainable logging, our region will lose skills, jobs, and a way of life. Conservationists have their say, but where’s the balance for working families?
— T. Thompson, Grafton
A Future Worth Protecting
I want to applaud the creation of the Great Koala National Park. Jobs matter, yes, but so does biodiversity and the survival of our native species. Tourism, eco-education, and park management jobs can provide new opportunities. We’ve lost enough wildlife. It’s time to think long-term.
— C. Clancy, Maclean
“More voices from smaller villages”
Great spread of views, but don’t forget places like Rappville, Woodburn, and Tyalgum. When the letters refect every corner of the Northern Rivers, even the fghts feel like family business.
— N. Johnston, Woodburn
Bridge Honour Well Deserved
The decision to name a bridge after Lenny Perren is ftting. He was a quiet achiever whose hard work kept communities connected. It’s refreshing to see council honour someone who built rather than destroyed. May his story inspire younger generations.
— M. Jolly, Lismore
“Lismore sale notes hit the paddock reality”
Loved the specifc lots— weights, c/kg, vendor names. It keeps agents honest and gives small operators confdence. Please keep highlighting upcoming breeder and weaner dates in a bold box.
— R. Keleher, Clunes
Council Should Fix Roads, Not Just Rename Bridges
While naming bridges after locals is nice, I’d prefer Lismore Council focused on fxing the crater-sized potholes. Our cars are wrecked, and residents are paying for it. Recognition is hollow if basic infrastructure is ignored.
— B. Bartlett, South Lismore
“Letters page is the community’s pressure valve”
Publishing the hard-edged Primex takes alongside praise for volunteers and footy fnals shows you’re not picking sides—you’re giving us a forum. Keep it civil, keep it local, and keep it coming.
— D. Avery, Grafton
“On design: brighter, cleaner, easier to navigate”
This week popped. Clearer section heads, bolder image choice on sport, and the recipes page looked modern without losing its cheek. The balance between heavy civic letters and lighter lifestyle felt right. Keep that rhythm.
— V. Morgan, Lismore
“This edition felt alive with variety”
From the sharp political heat over Primex, to heartfelt volunteer stories, to the cheeky recipes— this paper had a pulse. I like that you’re not afraid to mix levity with gravity. Life isn’t just one mood, and this edition refected that.
— M. Thompson, Bangalow
Eat the Street Excitement
Fantastic to hear Eat the Street is returning! After the foods and pandemic, Lismore needs joyful community events like this. Food, music, families—it’s the heartbeat of who we are. Thank you to Norco and council for backing it.
— M. McPherson, Lismore
“Humour belongs in the kitchen”
The recipe page is pure gold. I don’t always cook them, but I always read them. The playful tone sets this paper apart from others. Don’t lose it—it’s become part of the Times’ character.
— R. Young, Casino
“Overall, your strongest issue in months”
This one clicked. The layout, the balance, and the engagement on the letters page all made it feel lively. If each edition builds on this, you’ll cement the NRTimes as not just news, but the voice of the region.
— K. Foster, Lismore
Priorities in the Wrong Place
While people cheer Eat the Street, I question the spending. Grants and corporate dollars fow into
street food festivals, yet many locals still struggle to aford groceries. Council should put essentials before luxuries.
— K. Kent, Casino
Lawrence Ferry Still a Mess Two ferries at Lawrence are the bare minimum. Parents should never have to worry about kids on buses stuck at the riverbank. We pay enough in taxes—this service should be reliable, not patched together.
— W. Walker, Lawrence
Praise for Quick Ferry Action Credit where it’s due: Richie Williamson pushed hard and the government listened. Two ferries in peak times will help everyone—farmers, families, and businesses. It’s not perfect, but it’s a start.
— G. Grant, Ulmarra
Byron Leads Again The Ground Swell workshop is exactly the type of initiative Byron should champion. Tackling single-use plastics and protecting our beaches is good for locals and tourists alike. I hope every business signs up.
— R. Richards, Byron Bay
Business Red Tape I’m sceptical about these workshops. Small businesses are already drowning in compliance. Adding environmental “credentials” might look good in council reports, but it’s just another hoop for struggling operators.
— P. Peters, Bangalow
“Council’s job is outcomes, not slogans” The community letters nailed it: no more backslapping media releases while events roll down the highway. Publish a postmortem on Primex and Beef Week governance, dollars in vs outcomes out, and make it public. If Lismore could put a competitive package together, why couldn’t we? Fix the culture before we lose the next big thing.
— R. Hocking, Kyogle
A Miss 8 Classic The Pomeranian and the Dragon was delightful. Miss 8’s imagination is boundless, and her stories brighten the paper. Please keep giving children space to share their creativity— it’s a joy to read.
—
H.
Hughes, Kyogle
Where’s Miss 8?
I was disappointed not to see Miss 8 last week, and I think many readers were too. Her stories bring innocence and warmth. Please ensure she’s a regular feature! It’s great she is back in the latest edition.
— P. Parry, Casino
Sun Safety Saves Lives
The SunSafe Student Ambassador Program in Ballina is critical. Melanoma is a killer, and education is the best prevention. Well done to local schools for embracing it.
—
M. McDonald, Ballina
Schools Have Enough on Their Plate
While sun safety matters, I worry schools are being overloaded with every social campaign under the sun. Let teachers focus on literacy and numeracy. Health campaigns should be parents’ responsibility.
— E. Evans, Alstonville
“Motoring pages that actually inform buyers”
The RAV4 breakdown was the clearest I’ve read—powertrains, AWD logic, trims, and those practical nuggets like the inverter on PHEV models. If Toyota nails pricing, this will dominate feets and families here.
— B. Hanlon, Tweed Heads
“Ballina’s Emergency Expo is practical news done right”
Clear details, who’ll be there, what families can learn, and why it matters before the next storm cycle. Kids clambering on trucks is fun; parents leaving with an actual plan is gold. See you at Missingham Park.
— C. O’Rourke, Ballina
“Custard apple teacake is a keeper”
Northern Rivers fruit in a homey bake—yes please. Light crumb, tropical lift, and that wink-wink tone that makes you feel like you’re on a cooking show without the pressure. More seasonal desserts like this and I’ll never skip the recipe page again.
— P. Walters, Mullumbimby
Molar Patroller Shines
The mobile dental van is brilliant. Free dental care in small schools is a real game-changer for families who can’t always make the trip to town. More services like this, please!
— T. Turner, Woodenbong
Don’t Let It Stop Here
The Molar Patroller is great, but dental waiting times at clinics are still outrageous. A van is nice PR, but we need systemic improvements across NSW oral health.
— W. Wright, Tweed Heads
Truck Show Pride Casino Truck Show once again put our town on the map. $26,000 raised for charities proves it’s more than just shiny rigs—it’s community spirit. Congratulations to organisers.
— H. Harris, Casino
Too Big, Too Noisy
I live near the CBD and the Truck Show is overwhelming. Noise, trafc chaos, and thousands of people crammed in—it’s not pleasant for locals. Maybe time to move it outside town.
— O. O’Connor, Casino
New Plates Make Sense
The new vehicle plates
with fuel identifers are smart. Emergency services need quick recognition of EVs and hybrids. A small change that could save lives.
— L. Lawson, Mullumbimby
Grant Applications Too Hard
I’ve tried applying before—the forms are exhausting. Smaller groups with limited resources struggle to even get through the paperwork. Simplify the process!
— S. Simmons, Nimbin
Homeless Children
Forgotten
Reading about thousands of kids without safe housing broke my heart. No child should face life alone. Federal action is overdue—stop the politics and help these kids.
— A. Anderson, Ballina
Hard Truth
While it’s tragic, homelessness funding is fnite. We cannot expect government to house everyone instantly. Solutions must involve families, charities, and communities too, not just Canberra.
— B. Brooks, Grafton
Newspaper Colours Pop
The latest edition looks fantastic—the colour is sharper, and the layout feels fresher. It makes the stories stand out and shows the paper is keeping up with modern design.
— M. Miller, Lennox Head
Great Range of Articles
From local council dramas to Miss 8’s story, the coverage this week was excellent. The balance of hard news, human interest, and
community notes keeps me coming back every Thursday.
— F. Fraser, Evans Head
Leemo the Philosopher Leemo never fails to crack me up. Only a cat could turn being called “feral” into a lesson on pet abandonment and human behaviour. It’s quirky, thoughtful, and downright entertaining. Keep giving him a page— he’s a local treasure.
— P. Dawson, Lismore
Mental Health Access
Matters
Southern Cross University ofering free mental health support is a lifeline. With waitlists and costs pushing help out of reach for many, this initiative shows compassion in action. I hope governments take note and fund more services like this.
— S. Mitchell, Tweed Heads
Custard Apple Charm
That Custard Apple Teacake recipe was pure magic. Light, sweet, and a little cheeky—it perfectly captured the spirit of the Northern Rivers where fruit and fun go hand in hand. I’ll be serving it at our next CWA morning tea.
— M. Johnston, Coraki
Circus Showstopper
Reading about Spaghetti Western made me grin from ear to ear. Only in the Northern Rivers could you blend cowboys, acrobatics, and toetapping music with such fair. The young performers should be proud to carry our circus traditions to new heights. Brunswick Picture House is in for a treat.
— L. Foster, Mullumbimby
Words to shake & spear...
By Nigel Dawe
GIVING remote thought, let alone considered refection to William Shakespeare is like walking into a haunted castle at midnight, all by yourself without so much as a candle to light your way. So great is his legacy, profundity and irreplaceability that catching lightning in a jar is a more likely task, than doing justice to what he achieved in his feeting 52-years of life.
As if he were talking to himself under his own breath as a young man on his way from his rural beginnings to the bright lights of London, Shakespeare worked the following line into his play Twelfth Night (which was one of the 37 he wrote): “Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them. Your fate awaits you. Accept it in body and spirit. To get used to the life you’ll most likely be leading soon, get rid of your low-class trappings.”
Incredibly, not a great deal is known about the early life of England’s greatest playwright, a playwright who alone created 1,700 words (words like zany, lacklustre, priceless and eyeball) that peppered his works in such a way that no one has ever bettered the quality or originality of his output, before or since. To put it in perspective, his collected works total some 884,640 words, comparatively Tolstoy’s War and Peace comes in at a word length of approximately 587,000.
Sadly, for both the great bard himself and us, we have the works of Shakespeare thrust upon us at way too early an
age; between the foral old-world English and the actual subject matter of his plays, it should be mandatory that no one (in the interests of not ruining the experience) be subject to his writings until at least the age of 25. Or as T.S. Eliot once in absolute awe refected, “So great is Shakespeare, however, that a lifetime is hardly enough for growing up to appreciate him.”
So many times, I’ve refected upon Shakespeare’s brilliance, and all the diferent infuences that combined to make him not just prodigiously polished and perceptive, but forever supremely-elevated in the realm of thought and letters. There is no other way to explain his stature than by saying he is purely and simply a one-man universe. As he had Hamlet say (being something that equally pertained to Shakespeare himself): “O God, I could be bounded in a nutshell, and count myself a king of infnite space.” The psychological confnes he moved so freely within, and ‘expanded upon’ are as groundbreaking today as they were in his own time – four centuries ago.
The noted Shakespeare academic Harold Bloom once conclusively refected, “We keep returning to Shakespeare because we need him; no one else gives us so much of the world most of us take to be fact... The plays remain the outward limit of human achievement. They abide beyond the end of the mind’s reach, we cannot catch up to them. Shakespeare will go on explaining us, in part because he invented us... he thought more comprehensively and originally than any other writer.”
$24,695 FUNDING BOOST FOR EVANS HEAD SCOUT HALL PRECINCT
The Evans Head Scout Hall precinct used by the local playgroup will receive a welcome upgrade thanks to a $24,695 grant under the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnerships program, Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson has announced.
Mr Williamson said while no longer used by Scouts, the hall is now home to the local playgroup and is a thriving multipurpose hub for a wide range of
community activities, events, and groups. It is also available for private hire, making it a true whole-of-community facility.
“The funding will allow for important renovations and upgrades to the hall and playgroup space, including the removal of unsafe infrastructure, installation of a new garden shed, improvements to playground equipment, and levelling and re-turfng of the play area.
Mr Williamson said he was pleased to visit the site last week and see frsthand the important role the hall plays in Evans Head.
“This investment will ensure the Scout Hall precinct remains a safe, engaging, and welcoming space for local families, children, volunteers, and the wider community for years to come,” Mr Williamson said.
Rachel McNaught, General Manager of the Mid Richmond
Neighbourhood Centre, said the upgrades will strengthen the sense of connection in Evans Head.
“Upgrading the Scout Hall playgroup space will ensure local families, children and volunteers have a safe, welcoming and engaging environment to come together,” Ms McNaught said.
“These improvements will help us continue to provide meaningful activities and services, while creating a community space that
supports connection, learning and inclusion.”
The Evans Head Scout Hall project is one of 22 across the Clarence and Richmond Valleys to share
in more than $400,000 in funding through the Community Building Partnerships program this year. To sign up for alerts about
Tweed Residents Invited to Have Their Say on Flood Safety Plans
Robert Heyward
Tweed Shire Council is inviting residents and businesses in Tweed Heads South and Banora Point to provide feedback on a new strategy aimed at reducing future food risks. The draft Tweed Heads South Levee and Drainage Study is now on public exhibition until
Sunday 26 October 2025. The report includes updated food mapping and risk assessments, along with a series of proposed mitigation measures — both structural and nonstructural — to help keep the community safe from foodwaters.
Building on community knowledge
The study builds on
earlier catchment-scale investigations and extensive consultation in 2023, where more than 230 locals contributed their food experiences, photographs, and records to help refne food models.
Council’s Engineer –Flood and Stormwater, Leon McLean, said local knowledge remains central to shaping efective solutions.
“Through the frst stage of consultation, we heard from people across Tweed Heads South, Banora Point and the surrounding area about the foods that have disrupted their lives — from blocked drains and overland fow to homes and businesses inundated above foor level,” Mr McLean said.
“Now, with the draft report complete and
a proposed course of action defned, this is the community’s chance to look at the proposed strategy and tell us what will work best locally. By combining technical expertise with lived experience, we can shape practical solutions that strengthen our resilience to fooding.”
What the community has said so far
During the frst round of
consultation: Over 80% of participants reported experiencing fooding.
Key concerns included stormwater drainage and levee overtopping
Popular suggestions included upgrading drainage systems, providing clearer food risk information, and tightening development controls in food-prone areas.
How to get involved
Residents within the study area will soon receive information packs outlining the study’s fndings and proposed mitigation options, along with a printed survey to provide feedback. Community members are encouraged to review the draft report and proposed measures before completing the survey. All documents — including the draft study, a summary of proposed options, the online survey, and a printable version — are available at yoursaytweed.com.au/ ths-levee-drainage-study Submissions close Sunday 26 October 2025 This project is supported by funding from the NSW Government’s Floodplain Management Grants Program
Social Futures Claims Three Wins at NSW 2025 Resilient Australia Awards
Robert Heyward
Social Futures has collected three honours at the 2025 Resilient
Australia Awards at NSW Parliament House, recognising standout eforts to build community resilience after disaster.
Chief Executive Tony Davies said the accolades refect the power of local collaboration. “Resilience isn’t built alone. These awards honour the partnerships and spirit of cooperation that have helped lift our communities up and restore hope after devastating natural disasters,” he said.
Recovery Connect won
the Community category for its pioneering model that empowers people and strengthens whole communities. Jointly funded through NSW and Australian Government Disaster Recovery Funding, the program’s recent third funding extension underlines the continuing need for its services.
The Resilient Kids program took out the Mental Health and Wellbeing category for helping young people build skills, confdence and resilience after major disruptions. Funded by Healthy North Coast and shaped through
community consultation— the initiative was realised with a $10 million grant from the National Emergency Management Agency, alongside consortium partners
The Family Centre and Human Nature Adventure Therapy
“This award is for the children and young people of the Northern Rivers,” said Healthy North Coast
CEO Monika Wheeler
“Resilient Kids has been built with them, for them, and because of them.”
The Photography category was awarded to a powerful image from Strong Minds in the Early Years (SMEY)
by
journalist
Catherine Piltz
, depicting counsellor Lisa Wilson working with disaster-afected children. Initially supported by the NSW Government and now by the Waratah Foundation, SMEY uses creativity and play to help children process trauma, with strong gains in wellbeing and stability.
Martelle Geurts, Cathy Serventy and Philip Lynch accepted the awards on behalf of Social Futures. The organisation said it is proud to share the state honours with the Northern Rivers community, where collective strength continues to drive recovery and renewal.
Evans Head Scout Hall precinct - Mid Richmond Neighbourhood Centre
Tweed Residents Invited to Have Their Say on Flood Safety Plans
Helen is well known on the Northern Rivers, either as an author or in the showring with her Charolais Cattle.
Helen has written 10 books on local history
Kyogle Show 2025: Where Tradition Meets Community Spirit
The Kyogle Show is set to return in 2025 with all the colour, excitement and community pride that has made it a highlight of the Northern Rivers’ social calendar for more than a century. Rooted in agricultural heritage but constantly evolving to refect modern interests, the Kyogle Show ofers something for everyone — from the cattle rings and produce pavilions
including, helping with the Kyogle Show book “100 years of Kyogle Pastoral, Agricultural & Horticultural Society” which was launched in 2016.
Beside the books, her love for the Charolais goes back over 50
years, as this year 2025 they celebrate 51 years as Bentley Downs Charolais. Helen and her husband Allan, along with two sons Ritchie and Rod have achieved many awards along the way. These include Supreme All Breeds Bull with
to sideshow alley, live entertainment, and community showcases.
Scheduled for later this year at the Kyogle Showgrounds, the 2025
event is shaping up to be one of the most vibrant yet. For locals, it’s a chance to reconnect with their heritage and neighbours. For visitors,
14 months old “Bentley Downs JR” at the Brisbane Royal in 1990. Showing started back in 1970 with the showing of Pony Stallion “Grey Rock”. Kyogle was the frst show they attended. They began showing Charolais in 1982 and
have never missed a Kyogle Show since.
Helen is very honoured to have been asked to open the 2025 Kyogle Show and she is hoping we have a new generation of younger ones coming through to keep the wonderful tradition alive.
it’s an opportunity to discover the authentic charm of a regional show — and the unique spirit of a town that celebrates resilience, creativity, and
country hospitality.
A Long and Proud History
The Kyogle Show is more than a weekend of
festivities. It represents generations of dedication, with farmers, families and volunteers coming together year after year to celebrate the achievements of their region. From its earliest days, the show has been a showcase for agricultural excellence — a chance for cattle breeders, dairy farmers, and produce growers to display their best stock and crops while fostering healthy competition and innovation. Over time, the show has
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Helen Trustum
expanded to embrace not just agriculture, but also the cultural life of the community. Today, you’ll fnd everything from horse events and woodchopping competitions to cooking, photography, foristry, and craft exhibits, proving that the show is
as much about creativity as it is about the land.
The Kyogle Show has always been a refection of the times, adapting to include modern attractions while preserving its traditional roots. It is this balance of heritage and innovation that keeps people returning year after year.
A Celebration of Agriculture
At its heart, the Kyogle Show remains a proud platform for agriculture. Livestock competitions will once again feature some of the best beef and dairy cattle from across the Northern Rivers, representing both tradition and the ongoing
strength of the district’s farming community. Sheep, goats, poultry, and horses will also feature prominently, highlighting the breadth of the region’s rural skills.
In the pavilion, visitors can admire the fnest examples of local produce, preserves, baking, photography, foristry, and handcrafts. For many families, seeing their entries on display — whether it’s a jar of jam, a homegrown pumpkin, or a prize-winning photo — is a cherished part of the show experience. These exhibits demonstrate the hard work and talent within the Kyogle community and inspire younger generations to take pride in their skills.
Entertainment for the Whole Family
Of course, no country show would be complete without entertainment, and the 2025 Kyogle Show promises plenty of it. Families can enjoy the thrills of sideshow alley,
with classic rides, carnival games, and showbags sure to delight the young and young-at-heart.
The main arena will host a program of live demonstrations, novelty events, and traditional competitions, including crowd favourites like
woodchopping and showjumping. Visitors can also look forward to performances from local musicians, roving entertainers, and cultural displays that showcase the diversity and creativity of the region.
When night falls, the fun doesn’t stop. Fireworks will light up the sky, capping of the day with a burst of colour and excitement.
Evening attractions — from high-energy arena shows to live music — ensure that the showgrounds remain buzzing long after sunset.
A Hub of Community Spirit
Beyond the competitions and entertainment, the Kyogle Show is fundamentally about community. It provides a platform for local businesses, schools, service clubs, and community groups to come together in a shared celebration.
Volunteers play an essential role in bringing the show to life, helping with everything from organising events to serving food and guiding visitors.
The showgrounds become a hub where old friends catch up, families make memories, and newcomers are welcomed into the fold. It is this sense of belonging and connection that gives the Kyogle Show its enduring appeal.
Kyogle Show Society representatives often note that the event is “for the community, by the community.” It’s not just about competition or entertainment, but about celebrating the shared values of resilience, hard work, and creativity that defne the region.
Why the Show Maters in 2025
The past few years have been challenging for many rural communities, with natural disasters, rising
costs, and changing markets testing resilience. Events like the Kyogle Show provide not just a muchneeded morale boost, but also a practical platform for sharing knowledge and innovation. Farmers can see new technologies and
practices on display, while the wider community gains an appreciation for the essential role agriculture plays in everyday life.
The 2025 show is also a chance to showcase the region to visitors. Tourism is a vital part of the
Northern Rivers economy, and the Kyogle Show attracts people from across NSW and beyond. By highlighting local produce, talent, and hospitality, the show helps promote Kyogle as a vibrant, welcoming destination.
Looking Ahead
As Kyogle prepares for its 2025 show, excitement is already building. Exhibitors are busy preparing their entries, performers are fnalising their programs, and volunteers are working behind the scenes to ensure the event runs smoothly. With its unique blend of
tradition and modern fair, the Kyogle Show continues to stand as a proud symbol of the community’s identity. Whether you come for the cattle judging, the freworks, the fairground rides, or simply the chance to share in the spirit of Kyogle, the 2025 show promises an unforgettable experience. So mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate. The Kyogle Show 2025 will once again prove why country shows remain at the heart of Australian community life — a vibrant mix of heritage, fun, and togetherness that never goes out of style.
Downton Abbey The Grand Finale Times
Jef Gibbs
Few television dramas have captured the hearts of Australians quite like Downton Abbey . From its frst season, Julian Fellowes’ creation became a Sunday night staple in many households. Now, Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale brings the Crawley family and their loyal staf back for one last curtain call. The result is a flm steeped in nostalgia, elegance, and the kind of grand storytelling that fans have come to expect.
Cast and Characters
The ensemble cast remains the jewel of the production. Hugh Bonneville returns as Robert Crawley, Earl of Grantham, bringing gravitas and warmth to his role as the steadfast patriarch. Elizabeth McGovern shines once more as Cora, his devoted yet quietly resilient wife. Michelle Dockery embodies Lady Mary with poise, balancing modern pragmatism with duty, while Laura Carmichael as Lady Edith continues to radiate strength and independence.
On the staf side, Jim Carter as the ever-dependable Mr Carson and Phyllis Logan as Mrs Hughes hold the household together, while Sophie McShera and Lesley Nicol as Daisy and Mrs
WHO TO CALL IN AN EMERGENCY
Know
Patmore provide both humour and heart. A standout, as always, is Maggie Smith as the sharp-tongued Dowager Countess Violet Crawley. Her wit and wisdom dominate the screen, and her story arc gives audiences both laughter and tears in equal measure.
Plot Overview
The flm opens in the mid-1930s as Downton faces the sweeping changes of a new era. With the shadow of another European confict looming, the Crawleys must adapt to a rapidly shifting world. Lady Mary contemplates what the future means for her children, while Lady Edith grapples with her journalistic ambitions clashing against aristocratic tradition. Meanwhile, the staf below stairs navigate their own hopes, loves, and loyalties in a society that no longer depends so heavily on estates like Downton.
Central to the story is a family gathering that draws everyone back to the Abbey. Secrets are revealed, old feuds resurface, and the Dowager Countess leaves an indelible mark on the future of the Crawleys. Without giving too much away, the fnale ensures that every beloved character is given a moment to shine, while wrapping up lingering threads from the series and previous flms.
Filming Locations and Style
As ever, Highclere Castle in Hampshire serves as the principal location, its grandeur providing a stunning backdrop to the Crawleys’ world. Sweeping cinematography captures both the lush English countryside and the detailed interiors that fans know so well. The production team spares no efort in re-creating the 1930s atmosphere, from
elegant gowns to classic automobiles, ensuring historical authenticity.
For Australian audiences, the flm ofers the kind of lush period escapism that has made Downton Abbey so enduring. It is the perfect big-screen experience, especially for those who have followed the Crawleys since the frst episode aired more than a decade ago.
Interesting Facts
• Maggie Smith initially declared she would not return after earlier flms, but she agreed to reprise her role to give Violet Crawley a ftting farewell.
• Highclere Castle, already a tourist favourite, has seen a surge in visitors whenever new Downton Abbey releases hit screens.
• Much of the costuming was custommade, with designers drawing from archived 1930s fashion sketches to ensure accuracy.
• The fnale brings together nearly every major surviving cast member, a rarity in long-running ensembles.
Final Thoughts
Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale is not just a flm; it is a heartfelt goodbye. While it does not reinvent the story, it does not need to. Instead, it honours the characters, their journeys, and the loyal fans who have invested years in their lives. The blend of drama, romance, and gentle humour makes for a moving conclusion.
For Australians who grew up with the Crawleys, the fnale ofers a chance to relive the splendour of Downton one last time. It is a lovingly crafted farewell that leaves audiences both satisfed and a little wistful.
PUZZLES
TIME FOR TRIVIA
Place the digits 1 to 9 in the blue squares, so that all 6 equations are correct. Multiplication and/or division are performed rst, in whichever order they appear –followed by addition and/or subtraction, in whichever order they appear.
1 In the campaign, “Kids Alive, Do the Five”, what is the first step?
(a) Shut the gate (b) Learn how to resuscitate (c) Fence the pool
(d) Supervise, watch your mate
2 The name of which dessert means “pick me up”?
(a) Crème brûlée
(b) Gelato (c) Tiramisu (d) Baklava
3 Don Mueang International Airport is a major airport in which country?
(a) Thailand (b) Vietnam (c) Cambodia (d) China
WHICH WORDS
Which is the correct meaning for these words?
1 BLARNEY
(a) Flattering talk
(b) The blowing of a trumpet
(c) Foolish speech
2 EVANESCE
(a) To preach the gospel
To leave empty
Fade away
3 GAINSAY (a) To profit by (b) To deny
To play at a game of chance
4 PORTENT
(a) An indication of something about to happen
(b) The work of a porter or carrier
(c) A sliding iron grating at the gateway of a fortified place
5 VERISIMILAR
(a) Of like appearance
(b) Likely or probable
(c) Having to do with words
4 Which classic novel features the Earnshaw and Linton families?
(a) Madame Bovary (b) The Great Gatsby (c) Wuthering Heights (d) Pride and Prejudice
5 Who was the winner of MasterChef Australia in 2025? (a) Depinder Chhibber (b) Callum Hann (c) Jamie Fleming (d) Laura Sharrad
6 The asthenosphere is part of which one of the following things?
(a) Earth’s mantle (b) Upper atmosphere (c) Rings of Saturn (d) The brain
ALFAKODO
WEEKLY CROSSWORD
BEST ON THE BOX
FRIDAY
PROFESSOR T
ABC TV, 8.30pm
Audiences are used to seeing Ben Miller (pictured) in eccentric and quirky roles, such as DI Richard Poole in the much-loved Death In Paradise and as problematic author Julian in the ABC sitcom Austin. So it has been refreshing to see the seasoned performer venture into darker territory as the brilliant yet complex criminologist Professor Jasper Tempest in this classy crime drama. In Friday’s season one nale “The Dutiful Child”, someone tries to knock o a billionaire businessman as he delivers a speech. When Professor T is called in to investigate, he soon links the attempted assassination to a simmering family feud. Meanwhile, Professor T’s birthday arrives, sparking a haunting childhood memory.
FRIDAY, September 19
SUNDAY
ABC TV, 8.15pm
MYSTERY ROAD: ORIGIN
Mark Coles Smith (pictured) has put his own masterful spin on the role of Detective Jay Swan since taking over from Aaron Pedersen, who originated the character in the 2013 lm Mystery Road subsequent spin-o AACTA Award for Best Lead Actor and Gold Logie nomination in the bag for his e orts, Coles Smith returns to esh out the steely cop’s back story in the second season of this captivating prequel series. Set six months after the debut instalment, during Easter in the year 2000, it follows Swan and his partner Mary (Tuuli Narkle) as they relocate to the timber town of Loch Iris, where a missing child and the suspicious death of an elderly nun promptly demand Swan’s attention.
THURSDAY THE OFFICE AUSTRALIA
You’re probably most familiar with the UK
The , but the global hit franchise in fact has 13 international production makes the most of their setting, with local writing teams adding a distinct of humour and cultural knowledge to the adaptation. Tonight’s instalment of this Aussie incarnation is perhaps the best example of that approach, as Flinley Craddick’s Sydney ce celebrates Melbourne Cup Day. Or rather, managing director Hannah (comedian Felicity Ward, pictured) and visiting Brisbane colleague Danny (Rick Donald) cause chaos as they go against corporate policy to throw a raucous, boozy party in the workplace.
ABC TV (2) SBS (3) SEVEN (6) TEN (5) NBN (8, 80)
6.00 News. 9.00 ABC News Mornings.
10.00 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (PG, R) 10.30 The Paci c. (R) 11.00 PNG: The Road To Independence. (PG, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 The Family Next Door. (Final, Ml, R) 1.55 Grand Designs Australia. (R) 2.50 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.20 Grand Designs. (R) 4.10 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Gardening Australia. Sophie Thomson plants for buzz pollinators.
8.30 Professor T. (Final, Mav) When an attempt is made on a billionaire’s life, Professor T comes up with a suspect.
9.20 Hard Quiz. (PGs, R) Presenter Tom Gleeson grills four self-declared experts in a comedic quiz show.
9.50 Shaun Micallef’s Eve Of Destruction. (Final, PGl, R) Hosted by Shaun Micallef.
10.30 ABC Late News.
10.45 Austin. (Final, PG, R)
11.15 Silent Witness. (Ma, R)
12.15 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
6.00 WorldWatch. 9.15 Great Lighthouses Of Ireland. (R) 10.10 North Sea Wonders: A Coastal Journey. 11.10 Susan Calman’s Grand Week By The Sea. (R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.05 World’s Most Scenic River Journeys. (PGav, R) 3.00 Nula. 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 My Grandparents’ War. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 Your Money & Your Life. (PG) 1.30 Border Security: International. (PG, R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Amazing Railway Adventures With Nick Knowles. (Ml, R)
8.25 Dictator: The Hitler Interviews. (M)
9.20 Lost Treasures Of Egypt. (PGav) 10.15 SBS World News Late.
10.45 Athletics. World Championships. Day 7. Evening session.
11.20 Catch Me A Killer. (MA15+a)
12.15 Pray For Blood. (MA15+av, R)
2.05 Hugh’s Wild West. (R)
3.10 Expeditions With Patrick McMillan. (R)
4.10 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
(31) 6am Children’s Programs. 9.50 Mixmups. 10.10 Daniel Tiger’s. 11.00 Sesame Street. 11.25 Wiggle. 11.55 Thomas And Friends. 2.15pm Thomas. 2.40 Pop Paper City. 3.00 Play School. 4.10 Andy’s Aquatic Adventures. 4.25 Mecha Builders. 5.20 Mojo Swoptops. 5.45 Kangaroo Beach. 7.30 Good Game Spawn Point. 7.50 Teen Titans Go! 8.05 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.30 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars. 9.55 Merlin. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Morning Programs. 8.10 NHK Newsline. 8.40 CBC The National. 9.30 BBC News At Six. 10.00 Front Up. 11.30 Going Places. Noon DW The Day. 12.30 MOVIE: Still Standing. (2023, PG) 1.55 Everyone Else Burns. 2.25 Over The Black Dot. 3.00 BBC News At Ten. 3.30 France 24. 4.00 PBS News. 5.00 The Story Of. 5.30 Athletics. World Championships. Day 7. Evening session. 11.35 Homeland. 2.45am NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.
6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30.
7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs meets Ahmed Mahil, who is 3D printing his whole house.
7.30 Football. AFL. First preliminary nal. Geelong v Hawthorn. From the MCG.
10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews taking a look back at all the action from the game.
11.15 GetOn Extra. A look at the weekend’s best racing.
11.45 To Be Advised.
1.15 Riviera. (MA15+adlsv, R) The Clios family are questioned by police.
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Hosted by Simon Reeve.
5.00 NBC Today.
7TWO (62)
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current A air.
7.30 To Be Advised.
10.30 Athletics. World Championships. Day 7. From National Stadium, Tokyo, Japan.
11.30 Transplant. (MA15+m, R) Bash and Mags team up to save a John and Jane Doe found in the woods. Jane sees her old mentor in a new light.
12.30 Tipping Point. (PG, R) Ben Shephard hosts a UK game show in which contestants compete against a machine.
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) Jerry is involved in a helicopter crash.
4.30 Global Shop. (R) Home shopping.
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Postcards. (PG, R) Brodie Harper explores the stunning Noojee.
6.00 10 News+.
7.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. (R) A couple must bring their house up to date. 8.30 The Brighter Side. Takes a look at investing tips, $10 feasts, how to spot AI scams, and learn how Miguel Maestre built a business. 9.00 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Celebrity panellists compete to see who can remember the most about events of the week. 10.00 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 10.25
(64) SBS MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 1.25pm
9GO! (83) 6am The Movie Show. 6.40 RBG. (2018, PG) 8.30 The Movie Show. 9.05 Manganinnie. (1980, PG) 10.45 O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000, M) 12.45pm While We’re Young. (2014, M) 2.35 The Final Countdown. (1980, PG) 4.30 Welcome Home, Roxy Carmichael. (1990, PG) 6.20 The Battle Of The River Plate. (1956, PG) 8.30 No Country For Old Men. (2007) 10.50 Crash. (1996, MA15+) 12.40am A Serious Man. (2009, M) 2.45 On The Basis Of Sex. (2018, M) 4.55 The Final Countdown. (1980, PG)
6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 Golden Girls. 8.30 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family. 10.00 Bewitched. 10.30 Jeannie. 11.00 The West Wing. 12.10pm MOVIE: Sweet Rhythm. (2023, M) 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 Jeannie. 6.00 Golden Girls. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 MOVIE: Real Steel. (2011, M) 10.00 MOVIE: The Rooster.
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SATURDAY, September 20
6.00 Australian Story: All Consuming – Kate Reid. (R)
6.30 Back Roads: Gippsland Lakes, Victoria. (R)
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Beyond Paradise. (PGa, R) An arsonist targets three businesses.
8.30 Midsomer Murders. (Final, Mav, R) DCI John Barnaby and DS Winter investigate when a body is found surrounded by ritual symbols.
10.00 The Family Next Door. (Final, Ml, R) Isabelle unravels the truth. 10.55 I, Jack Wright. (MA15+l, R) 11.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Swiss Alpine Rail Journeys.
8.30 A Royal Residence: Glamis Castle. (Premiere, PG) Looks at Glamis Castle.
9.25 Stanley Tucci: Searching For Italy: Puglia. (R)
10.15 Great Australian Walks. (PG, R)
11.10 Homicide: Life On The Street. (Ma, R)
2.30 Secret Nazi Bases. (PGa, R)
4.10 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
4.40 Bamay. (R)
5.15 France 24 Feature.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
8.00 Seven News. 9.00 MOVIE: Free Guy. (2021, Mlv, R) After a bank teller discovers that he is actually a non-playable character inside a brutal, open world video game, he begins to display an unexpected level of self-awareness. Ryan Reynolds, Jodie Comer, Taika Waititi.
11.20 MOVIE: Back To The Future Part III. (1990, PGlv, R) Marty McFly travels back in time to the Old West to rescue his mad-scientist friend. Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd. 2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 It’s Academic. (R) Hosted by Simon Reeve.
5.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
6am Shopping. 8.30 Better Homes. 11.00 Harry’s Practice. 11.30 GetOn Extra. Noon Animal Rescue. 12.30 Better Homes. 2.00 The Yorkshire Vet. 3.00 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. 4.00 Horse
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 Rugby League. NRL. First semi- nal. Canberra Raiders v Cronulla Sharks. 9.45 NRL Finals Post-Match.
10.30 Athletics. World Championships. Day 8. 11.30 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+av, R) 12.30 Australia’s Top Ten Of Everything. (PG, R)
1.30 The Garden Gurus. (R)
2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG)
2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)
6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa,
ABC ENTERTAINS (23)
7TWO (62) VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 3pm Play School. 3.55 Odd Squad. 4.20 Millie Magni cent. 4.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.10 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.30 Paddington. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Do Not Watch This Show. 7.30 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 8.00 Kids BBQ Championship. 8.40 Chopped Jnr. 9.20 Fresh O The Boat. 10.05 Abbott Elementary. 10.25 Speechless. 10.45 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32) 6am
Morning Programs. 2.10pm ER. 2.55 Heartbreak High. 3.40 A Bite To Eat. 4.05 House Of Games. 4.40 MythBusters. 5.30 George Clarke’s Old House, New Home. 6.15 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent. 7.05 Spicks And Specks. 7.35 QI. 8.05 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee (NZ) 8.50 The Stand Up Sketch Show. 9.40 Changing Ends. 10.25 ER. 11.10 My Family. 11.40 Rage. 12.45am Late Programs.
7MATE (64)
6am The Final Countdown. Continued. (1980, PG) 6.45 The Movie Show. 7.20 The Battle Of The River Plate. (1956, PG) 9.30 The Movie Show. 10.05 A Serious Man. (2009, M) 12.10pm Into The Darkness. (2020, M, Danish) 2.55 The Movie Show. 3.30 RBG. (2018, PG) 5.20 The Great Escape. (1963, PG) 8.30 Arsenal. (2017, MA15+) 10.15 Nymphomaniac: Vol. II. (2013, MA15+) 12.30am Late Programs.
(53) NITV (34) SBS FOOD (33) 6am Morning Programs. 1.30pm NHK Newsline. 1.45 CBC The National. 2.35 BBC News At Six. 3.05 Bamay. 3.30 BBC News At Ten. 4.00 France 24. 4.30 PBS News. 5.30 Signs For Change. 6.40 Athletics. World Championships. Day 8. Evening session. 11.30 Australia Come Fly With Me. 12.30am MOVIE: All The Beauty And The Bloodshed. (2022, MA15+) 2.50 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.
9GO! (83)
6am Morning Programs. 12.30pm STIHL Timbersports: Brayden Meyer Special. 1.00 Blokesworld. 1.30 Dipper’s Destinations. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Aussie Truckers. 3.00 Boating. Circuit Boat Drivers Championship. Replay. 4.00 Deep Water Salvage. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Storage Wars. 8.00 AFL Post-Game. 9.00 Pawn Stars. 10.00 American Pickers. 11.00 Late Programs.
Place. 8.30 Cornwall. 9.35 The Layover. 10.30 Big Food Bucket List. 11.00 Late Programs. 9LIFE (84)
A
7.30
SUNDAY, September 21
ABC TV (2)
6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Insiders. 10.00 O siders. 10.30 World This Week. (R) 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Songs Of Praise. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 2.30 David Attenborough’s Kingdom Of Plants. (R) 3.35 Grand Designs New Zealand. (PG, R) 4.25 Bill Bailey’s Wild West Australia. (PG, R) 5.10 Antiques Roadshow.
6.10 Britain’s Great Cathedrals. (Final)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 The Assembly: Richard Roxburgh. (Return, PG)
8.15 Mystery Road: Origin. (Return, Mal) Jay’s hopes of a new beginning are shattered.
9.10 I, Jack Wright. (Mal) A dramatic revelation worries Sally.
9.55 Whiteley. (Mals, R)
11.25 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (Ml, R)
11.55 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.00 Ask The Doctor. (R)
3.30 The Art Of... (Ml, R)
4.00 Gardening Australia. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
Going On A Bear Hunt. 4.20 Millie Magni cent. 4.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.10 Super Monsters. 6.30 Paddington. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Do Not Watch This Show. 7.35 MOVIE: Billionaire Boy. (2016) 8.40 Fresh O The Boat. 9.20 Abbott Elementary. 10.05 Merlin. 10.45 Late Programs.
(3)
6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Lap Of Luxury: Escapes Down Under. (R) 10.00 Rediscover Victoria. (R) 11.00 Travel Quest. (PG, R) 12.00 APAC Weekly. 12.30 PBS Washington Week. 1.00 Speedweek. 3.00 Gymnastics.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Princes In The Tower: A Damning Discovery. (PG) Looks at the mystery of two princes.
8.50 Queens Of Combat. (Premiere, PG) Looks at the female gladiators of ancient Rome.
9.55 Black Gold. (Ml, R) 11.30 Stolen: Catching The Art Thieves. (Ma, R)
2.50 Secret Nazi Bases. (PGa, R)
4.30 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 APAC Weekly.
6am Morning Programs. 8.40 The Magic Canoe. 9.10 Spartakus. 10.00 Dreaming Big. 10.30 MOVIE: Selkie. (2000, PG) 12.15pm Ella. 1.45 Arctic Secrets. 2.35 Nula. 3.05 One Mind, One Heart. 4.30 O Country. 5.00 Hunting Aotearoa. 6.00 Amplify. 6.40 The Other Side. 7.30 Alone Australia. 8.30 MOVIE: The Witches Of Eastwick. (1987, M) 10.35 MOVIE: Mama Africa. (2011, PG) 12.15am Late Programs. SKY
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Voice. (PGl) 8.40 7NEWS Spotlight.
9.40 24 Hours In Police Custody: The Kane Line. (MA15+ad, R) Follows a police surveillance operation.
10.40 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous: The Predator –Leonard John Fraser. (MA15+av, R)
12.00 Miniseries: The Victim. (Malv, R)
1.15 Travel Oz. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 The Block. (PGl) 8.30 60 Minutes. Current a airs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues a ecting all Australians. 9.30 Athletics. World Championships. Day 9. 10.30 9News Late.
11.00 Mobsters: Murder Inc. (Madv)
12.00 The Gulf. (Madlsv, R)
1.00 Our State On A Plate.
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
4.30 Fishing Australia. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. 7.55 Soccer. English Premier League. Manchester City v Manchester United. Replay. 9.55 Athletics. World C’ships. 3.30pm Project Impossible. 4.30 Seinfeld. 5.00 MOVIE: Who Framed Roger Rabbit? (1988, PG) 7.00 MOVIE: My Super Ex-Girlfriend. (2006, PG) 9.00
Football. AFL Women’s. Round 6. St Kilda v Richmond. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Border Security: Int. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 MOVIE: Con Air. (1997, MA15+) 10.55 Late Programs. 6am Deal
STARS & PUZZLES
TARGET TIME
C N W
D O H
O T U Today’s target: 10 words average 14 words good 18+ 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
ASTROLOGY
ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 19)
LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)
SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)
Auspac Media
Tuesday is the best day of the week, as the Venus/ Mars link boosts romance, flirting, friendship and creativity. Then Wednesday through to Sunday looks tricky, as Saturn puts stress on a work relationship or Neptune confuses a personal partnership. Life will be easier if you communicate clearly and accept personal responsibilities with a smile. Your motto is from movie star (and birthday great) Sophia Loren: “Always be surrounded by people that you like.”
TAURUS (Apr 20 – May 20)
Are you stuck in a rut? Uranus shakes up your comfort zone … which could make you feel confused and uncomfortable! Try to view any upset constructively, as it forces you to view a current situation from a totally different perspective. And you may find a financial matter or a domestic project requires much more planning than you originally thought. That’s OK. Concentrate on enjoying the long and winding journey, rather than just focusing on the destination.
GEMINI (May 21 – June 20)
From Monday to Thursday, you could feel doubtful or disappointed as Saturn and Neptune dull motivation and confuse communication. Then your confidence starts to return, as Friday’s Mercury/Uranus and Mercury/Pluto trines boost innovative thinking and creative ideas. Personal projects, holidays and friendships are also highlighted. Your motto comes from movie icon (and birthday great) Lauren Bacall: “Imagination is the highest kite one can fly.”
CANCER (June 21 – July 22)
It’s going to be a confusing week so try to keep your Crab cool. Avoid spreading unsubstantiated gossip and blurting out things that you’ll later regret. Take the time to check the facts thoroughly. The more discreet and diplomatic you are, the better the week will be, but it’s definitely a delicate balancing act. If you are too obliging and say ‘yes’ to everyone and everything, then you’ll be overwhelmed and find you’ve bitten off more than you can comfortably chew!
The week leads up to the Sun/Saturn square on Sunday, so motivation will be low and impatience high. And the more you try to assert your authority and independence, the more stressful and frustrating things will be. Just remember – you can’t be the boss all of the time. Calm down and recalibrate, Lions! If you are more consultative, then the week will run more smoothly. Tuesday is the best day to catch up with like-minded folk in your local community.
VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sep 22)
Friday looks lively, as the Mercury/Uranus/Pluto links propel you into an exciting new world of possibilities. You’re pursuing a challenging personal project with extra creativity, passion and purpose, but a partnership or friendship requires more clarity. Avoiding complex issues won’t make them magically disappear, so it’s important to communicate your intentions clearly. Especially when it comes to a romantic relationship or a joint venture.
LIBRA (Sep 23 – Oct 22)
The overall message is patience, as the Sun and Venus visit your solitude zone. Rest, relaxation, reflection and rejuvenation are just what the doctor ordered. If you look to the future with a positive attitude, then fabulous opportunities will manifest – eventually. With Mars and Mercury in your sign, you must stand up for what you believe in. Be inspired by actress Jada Pinkett Smith (who turns 54 on Thursday): “Don’t allow anyone to dictate who you are.”
SCORPIO (Oct 23 – Nov 21)
With Mars hibernating in your seclusion zone, do you feel as if you’re going nowhere? The stars are testing your stamina and patience, so don’t give up. Friday’s Mercury/Pluto trine helps you tap into your bountiful reserves of inner strength as you pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and set a new course (especially involving home and family). Your motto is from birthday great, Leonard Cohen: “There is a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in.”
Most Archers are adventurous, free-wheeling folk. But life will be a bit more restrictive this week (especially at home and/or work) as disciplined Saturn opposes Mercury and the Sun. So smart Sagittarians will think before they speak, and plan before they act! Tuesday is the most social day of the week, as you visit a friend or catch up with your extended peer group. And then Friday favours innovative joint ventures and local community connections.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)
Tuesday’s Venus/Mars vibes favour researching a topic that has always fascinated you and socialising with work colleagues. On Wednesday and Thursday, Saturn (your ruling planet) opposes Mercury, and then on Saturday, Saturn opposes the Sun. So you’re in for a challenging time and extra responsibilities, especially involving family, education, travel and/or communication. Clever Capricorns will roll up their sleeves, put their heads down, and get to work.
AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)
This week Saturn puts stress on financial matters, so it’s not a good time to borrow funds, invest, go on a shopping spree or lend money to others. You’re liable to make financial decisions based on your emotions, which are fluctuating wildly. Especially on the weekend, when the Venus/ Uranus square boosts your tempestuous side and you do something surprising involving marriage, family or friendships. Whatever happens, expect the unexpected!
PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)
An unreliable friend or a questionable acquaintance could lead you astray, so keep your realism radar set on high and avoid getting caught up in dubious schemes (especially involving finances). Only accept the advice of people who you know well and can really trust. Venus visits your relationship zone from Friday until October 13. Attached Fish – find special ways to romance your sweetheart. Singles – look for love with a versatile Virgo or a caring Cancer.
with Joanne Madeline Moore
Sharpen Your Skills with Byron Writers Festival Workshops
Jef Gibbs
Aspiring authors and experienced writers alike will have the chance to hone their craft this spring, with Byron Writers Festival presenting a series of practical, handson workshops designed to inspire, motivate, and guide participants on their creative journeys.
Whether you’re looking to perfect your opening chapters, explore fresh writing exercises, or prepare to pitch your manuscript to publishers and agents, three unique
workshops will ofer invaluable skills and insights.
Make Your Opening Chapters Sizzle – with Laurel Cohn Beginnings matter. A weak start often means a story is never fnished—or even picked up. Editor and story consultant Laurel Cohn will guide participants through the craft of strong openings, focusing on the power of the frst sentence, paragraph, and chapter. Through critical reading and writing exercises, this full-day workshop
will explore how to grab readers from the very frst line.
• When: Saturday 25 October, 10am–4pm
• Where: Byron Writers Festival HQ, Byron Bay
• Cost: $200 General | $155 Festival Friends (+booking fee)
Book https://events.humanitix. com/opening-chapterswith-laurel-cohn-2025?mc_ cid=dc052d2de5&mc_ eid=766a280243
From Novice Writer to Published Author – with Dr Hilton Koppe Got a story to tell but
not sure where to begin?
Author and experienced facilitator Dr Hilton Koppe will lead a creative day of exercises designed to spark ideas, develop stories, and encourage new directions. Hilton will also share his own journey from novice writer to published author, covering journal pieces, self-publishing, and securing a traditional publishing contract.
• When: Saturday 8 November, 10am–4pm
• Where: Byron Writers Festival HQ, Byron Bay
• Cost: $200 General | $155 Festival Friends
Byron Markets Step Back in Time with ‘ Born in the 80 ’ s ’ Celebration
Byron Bay’s famous Community Market is set to turn back the clock next month, with a special themed edition celebrating the colourful decade of the 1980s.
On Sunday 5 October, the Byron Bay Main Beach foreshore will come alive with big hair, bold colours and retro beats for the ‘ Born in the 80’s’ Byron Community Market. The event marks two milestones — the year 1987 when the
Byron Community Centre frst took over management of the markets, and the Centre’s 130th anniversary in 2025.
Market Manager Carl Taylor said the day will be all about fun and connection.
“Born in the 80’s is a chance to celebrate the markets’ history while creating a vibrant and memorable day for stallholders, locals and visitors. It’s all about bringing people together in true Byron spirit,” he said.
The celebration promises a packed program of entertainment. Live performances from The Versace Boys, Lainie Godiva and ObiSun will keep the soundtrack pumping, while Byron dance troupe The Cassettes will host a high-energy 80’s dance workshop.
Market-goers are encouraged to dig out their best 80’s outfts, with on-the-spot prizes up for grabs for standout looks. A Tag & Win social media competition will also run
throughout the day, giving visitors extra chances to win by sharing their favourite outfts or stalls online.
Kate Love, Marketing Manager at the Byron Community Centre, said the event refects both the Centre’s history and its future.
“This market is a nod to the decade we began managing the Byron Community Markets. It’s a way to honour the past while inviting the community to celebrate the
(+booking fee)
Book https://events.humanitix. com/personal-to-publishedwith-hilton-koppe?mc_ cid=dc052d2de5&mc_ eid=766a280243
Get Pitch-Ready – with Melanie Ostell
For writers seeking to approach publishers and agents, literary agent Melanie Ostell will present an online pitching workshop. With more than 25 years in Australian publishing, Melanie will help participants refne their projects, craft compelling pitches, and
present with confdence.
• When: Saturday 15 November, 11am–1:30pm
• Where: Online (link provided to participants)
• Cost: $130 General | $120 Festival Friends (+booking fee)
Book: https://events.humanitix. com/masterclass-prepyour-pitch-with-melanieostell-online?mc_ cid=dc052d2de5&mc_ eid=766a280243
Bookings are essential for all workshops. For more information and tickets, visit the Byron Writers Festival website.
Byron Markets Step Back in Time with ‘Born in the 80’s’ Celebration
future with us,” she said.
With free entry, vibrant stalls, live entertainment and plenty of nostalgia, the ‘Born in the 80’s’ celebration promises to be a highlight for locals and visitors alike.
Event details:
•What: ‘Born in the 80’s’ Byron Community Market
•When: Sunday 5 October, 8am–2pm
•Where: Byron Bay Main Beach Foreshore
•Entry: Free For more information visit www.byronmarkets.com.au
Saddle Up for Spaghetti Western : World Premiere at Brunswick Picture House
Jef Gibbs
The Wild West is riding into Brunswick Heads this spring with a daring new circus spectacular. Spaghetti Western, co-produced by Spaghetti Circus and the Brunswick Picture House, will make its world premiere from October 29 to November 9
Mullumbimby’s own Spaghetti Circus Performance Troupe in a bold reimagining of the classic western genre.
Directed by the awardwinning, all-female powerhouse YUCK Circus, the show stars
Audiences can expect prancing ponies, bar brawls, cowboy antics, breathtaking acrobatics,
and gravity-defying stunts – all lassoed together with toe-tapping live music.
This high-energy, familyfriendly production promises a heartfelt celebration of courage, community, and circus magic.
“It’s such an honour to direct the Spaghetti Performance Troupe – an incredible bunch of kind, talented, passionate teens ready to rock the Picture House stage,” said YUCK Circus’ Georgia Deguara
“With Spaghetti graduate Hannah Richards now part of our YUCK cast, it’s a privilege to inspire the next generation of artists with a hometown perspective. You gotta see it to be it!”
Spaghetti Circus’ Director of Circus Petrina Hutchinson said the collaboration is an invaluable opportunity for the troupe.
“Partnering with YUCK Circus allows our young performers to learn from some of the best in the industry. These young artists are not just part of a show – they are part of a living tradition of contemporary circus, carrying forward skills, stories, and values for the next generation.”
Show Details
• Venue: Brunswick Picture House, 30 Fingal Street, Brunswick Heads NSW
• Duration: One hour (doors open 20 minutes before)
• Age Restriction: None
– suitable for all ages
Season Dates:
• Wed 29 Oct @ 10.30am
– SOLD OUT
• Wed 29 Oct @ 7pm –SOLD OUT
• Sat 1 Nov @ 2pm & 6.30pm
• Sun 2 Nov @ 2pm
• Wed 5 Nov @ 10.30am
– SOLD OUT
• Fri 7 Nov @ 6.30pm (Auslan-interpreted show)
• Sat 8 Nov @ 2pm & 6.30pm
• Sun 9 Nov @ 2pm
Tickets:
• Adults $30
• Children (3–17 years) $20
• Family of 4 $80
Tickets are available at brunswickpicturehouse. com
Jef Gibbs
Jef Gibbs
The debate over stamp duty reform has intensifed, with growing calls for Baby Boomers to be ofered concessions when downsizing from the family home. Advocates argue that easing the tax burden would not only beneft older Australians but also free up larger homes for younger families struggling to fnd suitable housing.
Across the country, more Baby Boomers are selling their long-held family homes to unlock equity and reduce costs ahead of retirement. Rising living expenses and the desire for more manageable properties have driven the shift, but stamp duty remains a major stumbling block. On a $1
million property, transfer duty can add more than $50,000 to the transaction, discouraging many from moving.
The Real Estate Buyers Agents Association of Australia (REBAA) has urged governments to act, proposing a stamp duty cut for homeowners over 60 purchasing properties
up to $1 million. Acting president Zoran Solano said concessions would encourage downsizing and release much-needed housing stock onto the market. “We’re seeing Baby Boomers downsize for both lifestyle and fnancial reasons. But many haven’t bought or sold in decades, and the
cost of stamp duty can be overwhelming,” he explained.
The Real Estate Institute of Australia has echoed these calls, highlighting how outdated pensioner concessions fail to match current market prices. Meanwhile, research shows today’s buyers pay far more in stamp duty relative to income than previous generations. In Melbourne, for example, buyers are now paying 6.1 times more relative to income than in the early 1980s.
While some states occasionally ofer relief—such as Victoria’s temporary stamp duty exemption for of-the-plan purchases—the broader system continues to weigh heavily on households.
Economist Angus Moore
of REA Group notes that in the early 1980s, stamp duty was about 2% of a home’s price; today, it averages closer to 5.4%.
For Baby Boomers, the fnancial and emotional toll of downsizing is signifcant. Rob Lees, a 65-year-old Mortgage Choice broker from New South Wales, recently sold his large family home in the Blue Mountains to relocate to Cronulla.
“We decided to sell both our properties and buy a single home near the beach. It clears our remaining mortgage, reduces maintenance costs, and gives us a more suitable residence,” he said. Many of his peers, he added, use proceeds from selling to pay of debt or boost retirement savings
through superannuation contributions.
Supporters of reform argue that targeted stamp duty cuts would smooth this transition, giving retirees more fnancial freedom while improving housing supply for younger buyers. Critics, however, caution that reducing revenue from such a lucrative tax may force governments to fnd funds elsewhere.
Ultimately, the question is one of intergenerational fairness: should Baby Boomers get a shortcut on stamp duty to encourage downsizing, or should all age groups shoulder the same burden? With afordability challenges mounting across the housing market, this debate is unlikely to fade anytime soon
NSW Riverina Region Growing as Sydneysiders Move In SHOULD BABY BOOMERS GET A STAMP DUTY SHORTCUT?
Jef Gibbs
Sydneysiders are increasingly trading city stress for the wide-open spaces of the Riverina, with the southern NSW region emerging as one of the state’s most afordable and attractive relocation hotspots. Figures from the Regional Movers Index reveal that migration to regional Australia is outpacing moves back to the cities by more than 26 per cent. Capitalto-region moves made up 11.2 per cent of all internal migrations, while just 8.9 per cent of people relocated in the opposite direction.
Riverina is proving especially popular.
rental prices and mortgage stress in Sydney are encouraging
families to consider towns like Wagga Wagga, Narrandera and Temora.
According to PropTrack, the median house price in Narrandera sits at about $314,000, while weekly rents in Temora average $380. By comparison, rent in Sydney’s Newtown averages $950 per week. Educator Emma Davenport, who relocated from Sydney to Wagga Wagga earlier this year, said the move fasttracked her career. “I went from being a Year 6 Co-ordinator to Deputy Principal. That kind of progression would have been much more difcult in the city,” she said. “Plus, now I have time for further study.”
Regional Development Australia Riverina CEO
Rachel Whiting said the lifestyle benefts were clear. “In Sydney, the average commute is around 90 minutes each way. In Temora, it’s a fve-minute walk — cofee in hand — and you’re home by 5:05pm. That’s more than seven hours a week back in your life,” she said. With major infrastructure projects underway and strong demand in health, IT and aged care, the Riverina is ofering both job opportunities and lifestyle perks. For many Sydneysiders, the equation is simple: more afordable housing, less stress, and more time to enjoy life.
Aerial view of Wagga Wagga
Axing Small Business Support? The Numbers Don’t Add Up
Jef Gibbs
The NSW Government’s decision to axe the Business Connect program from 30 September has sparked widespread concern across the state’s small business community, with industry leaders warning the cut makes “no economic sense.”
The $10 million program, which provides tailored advice and mentoring to small businesses, has delivered a return on investment of up to 3:1, according to an independent NSW Treasury review.
Billions at Stake
Small businesses are the backbone of the NSW economy:
•97% of all businesses in the state are small businesses
•They employ 1.8 million people
•They generate $535 billion in annual sales
•NSW is home to 34% of Australia’s small businesses
“Cutting a program that costs $10 million but supports a sector worth
more than half a trillion dollars a year is like throwing away dollars to save cents,” said Debbie Hatumale-Uy, Chief Marketing Ofcer at Realise Business, a not-forproft that delivers Business Connect services across
Are Your Investments Really
Sustainable? CPA Australia Pushes for Stricter Labelling Rules
Robert Heyward
Australia’s largest accounting body, CPA Australia, is calling for tougher rules on the naming and marketing of investment products to ensure consumers are not misled by vague sustainability claims.
Responding to a Commonwealth Treasury consultation on sustainable investment labels, CPA Australia said mandatory disclosure requirements are needed for products described as “green,” “responsible,” “sustainable,” or similar.
Without clear standards, the body warned, investors risk being exposed to greenwashing—where fnancial products are promoted as ethical without sufcient evidence to support those claims.
Patrick Viljoen, ESG Lead at CPA Australia, said compliance frameworks must keep pace with consumer expectations. “The market is awash with products claiming to be socially responsible. Consumers assume those claims are accurate, but too often they’re not backed by a robust regulatory
Sydney.
Proven Results
Since its launch in 2017, Business Connect has supported more than 60,000 businesses, delivering 300,000 hours of expert advice. The program has helped create 40,000 new jobs, with nearly half of its clients based in regional NSW.
Key results include:
•96% satisfaction rate from participants
•47% of clients are regional businesses
•42% established businesses and 47% startups
•Businesses considering closure dropped from 12% to just 1% after receiving support
Breaking a Working System
Currently, Service NSW concierges triage
business needs before referring clients to subjectmatter experts with local knowledge. Under the changes, the referral process will be removed, leaving concierges to provide only basic advice.
“Small businesses don’t need scripted advice; they need experienced advisors who understand their communities, industries, and challenges,” Ms Hatumale-Uy said. “Take that away and you risk jobs, opportunities—and the communities they sustain.”
Business owners are also voicing frustration.
James Stewart, CEO of Sydney-based startup Aero Vanguard, said:
“Cutting this program is economic suicide. My advisor didn’t just give me advice—she gave me the
blueprint for success. Every critical decision in my startup came through her guidance.”
Impact Beyond the Program
Business Connect is closely integrated with other state support networks, including local councils, government agencies, and fnancial assistance services such as the Small Business Debt Helpline. Removing it, advocates say, will particularly disadvantage regional and vulnerable communities.
“We urge the Premier, Treasurer, and Small Business Minister to urgently reconsider this cut and show small business owners that you have their backs,” Ms Hatumale-Uy said.
framework,” he said. “We need standardised labelling and mandatory disclosures so people can invest with confdence.”
CPA Australia and Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand have made a joint submission urging the government to adopt best-practice models from the UK and US. In those markets, at least 70 per cent of a product’s assets must align with its stated sustainability objective, alongside strict naming and marketing rules.
Viljoen said reforms in Australia should
similarly require upfront and ongoing disclosures about how sustainability is genuinely incorporated into investment decisions.
“If a product promotes itself as responsible or sustainable, it should
be clear exactly what this means and where investors’ money is going,” he said.
With Australians increasingly seeking to align investments with their values, CPA
Australia argues that stronger accountability measures will protect consumers, increase transparency, and ensure sustainable fnance products deliver on their promises.
Axing Small Business Support? The Numbers Don’t Add Up
Patrick Viljoen, ESG Lead, CPA Australia.
The Ultimate Travel Guide to Yemen
Jef Gibbs
Perched at the southern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, Yemen is a land of timeless beauty, layered history, and unique culture. Its landscapes stretch from rugged mountains and highland villages to desert plains and unspoiled coastlines. Ancient cities like Sana’a, with their gingerbreadstyle buildings, tell stories of a civilisation that thrived as a crossroads of trade. Despite its current challenges, Yemen remains a destination that captures the imagination of travellers drawn to authentic heritage, architectural wonders, and a rhythm of life little changed for centuries. For those with an adventurous spirit, Yemen ofers experiences like nowhere else on earth.
Top 5 Places to Visit
• Sana’a Old City
– A UNESCO World Heritage Site, with iconic multi-storey houses decorated with geometric patterns and stained-glass windows.
• Socotra Island – Known as the “Galápagos of the Indian Ocean,” it’s home to otherworldly dragon blood trees, pristine beaches, and endemic wildlife.
• Shibam, Hadhramaut
– Often called the “Manhattan of the Desert,” its mudbrick skyscrapers rise dramatically above the surrounding valley.
Luxury to Budget
• Luxury («««««): Limited but possible in larger cities such as Aden, with hotels ofering international standards.
• Mid-range («««–««««): Comfortable boutique hotels and restored traditional houses in Sana’a provide character and value.
• Budget («–««): Guesthouses and hostels run by local families, often in older city quarters, give a genuine cultural experience at minimal cost.
Currency & Budget Considerations
Yemen uses the Yemeni Rial (YER). Currency fuctuations are common, so carrying U.S. dollars is wise as they are widely accepted for exchange. Travellers on a budget can live comfortably on around USD $25–40 per day, covering simple accommodation, meals, and transport. Mid-range travellers may spend USD $70–120, while those seeking comfort should allow over USD $150 daily.
Best Ways to Get Around
overland travel is more reliable.
Conclusion
• Aden – A historic port city with volcanic landscapes, old colonial quarters, and a natural harbour central to maritime history.
• Al-Mahwit Mountains – A region of terraced farms and picturesque stone villages where traditional lifestyles fourish.
5 Best Deals and How to Save Money
• Stay in familyrun guesthouses – Afordable, authentic, and often inclusive of meals.
• Travel of-peak –Visiting outside holiday seasons reduces costs for accommodation and transport.
• Shared taxis (dallahs) –Far cheaper than private cars and a common way locals travel between towns.
• Local markets for meals – Fresh, inexpensive Yemeni bread, stews, and street food provide both favour and savings.
• Book long stays – Negotiating weekly or monthly rates with
small hotels can secure signifcant discounts.
5 Travel Tips
• Check safety advisories before travelling; conditions can change quickly.
• Dress modestly to respect cultural norms, particularly in rural areas.
• Carry cash as ATMs and cards are unreliable outside major cities.
• Learn basic Arabic phrases—hospitality is valued, and even a few words open doors.
• Hydration is essential —the climate can be hot and dry, especially inland.
Shared taxis and minibuses are the most practical and afordable options between towns. Within cities, walking is ideal for exploring historic quarters, while private drivers can be hired for remote areas or custom itineraries.
Domestic fights once linked key regions, though availability may vary, so
Yemen remains a land of enchantment for those who seek cultural depth and landscapes unspoiled by mass tourism. With care, respect, and an adventurous mindset, a journey here becomes not just travel but a step back into living history.
2026 Genesis G80 Line-up Revealed for Australia
Jef Gibbs
Genesis has unveiled the updated 2026 G80 sedan range for Australia, streamlining the line-up and introducing a new fagship variant designed to strengthen the model’s luxury appeal. The refreshed range includes subtle design tweaks, revised specifcations, and the addition of the striking G80 Black, sitting above the new Signature-branded trims. New Line-up
Structure
The 2026 range consists of three variants:
l G80 2.5T Signature RWD – entry point to the line-up
l G80 3.5T Signature Sport AWD – midgrade, performanceoriented
l G80 3.5T Black AWD
– new fagship with exclusive fnishes Genesis has adopted the “Signature” naming convention across its portfolio, aligning the G80 with its stablemates. The Black edition builds on the Signature Sport package but is distinguished by unique exterior and interior treatments that emphasise an all-black design theme.
Power and Performance
Under the bonnet, the engines deliver strong outputs for the segment:
l G80 2.5T Signature RWD – powered by a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder producing 224 kW and 422 Nm . Power goes to the rear wheels through an automatic transmission.
l G80 3.5T Signature Sport AWD – steps up to a 3.5-litre twin-
turbo V6 generating 279 kW and 530 Nm, with all-wheel drive for confdent traction.
l G80 3.5T Black AWD – shares the same 279 kW / 530 Nm V6 powertrain but distinguishes itself with unique styling and luxury fnishes.
l G80 Electrifed (expected alongside the line-up) – ofers a combined system output of 272 kW and 700 Nm , delivered instantly via its dual-motor allwheel-drive setup. Handling upgrades for the Sport and Black include Road Preview Electronic Control Suspension, rearwheel steering, and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres. These additions sharpen dynamics while maintaining the comfort expected in a luxury sedan.
Exterior and Interior Enhancements
The G80 retains its elegant proportions but receives a refned front fascia to keep it fresh in a competitive market. The Black variant adds darktinted emblems, a gloss black G-Matrix grille, black brake calipers, and 20-inch alloys fnished in exclusive black. Subtle welcome and farewell animations further reinforce its fagship identity.
Inside, the Black edition features black Nappa leather upholstery, Black Ash open-pore wood trim, black quilted seating, and darkened interior garnishes. The efect is a dramatic, luxury-focused cabin that contrasts with the lighter colour palettes ofered in other trims. Across the range, buyers receive premium appointments such as 18-way power front seats, quilted Nappa leather, suede headlining, and carefully crafted openpore wood fnishes. The Signature Sport adds alloy pedals, a sport steering wheel, and carbon-look
garnishes for a more athletic edge.
Pricing and Value
Australian pricing (before on-road costs) is as follows:
l G80 2.5T Signature RWD – $104,200
l G80 3.5T Signature Sport AWD – $127,200
l G80 3.5T Black AWD – $125,200
This positions the G80 against established European rivals such as the BMW 5 Series, Audi A6, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, but Genesis is banking on its value-rich specifcation and service inclusions to win buyers over.
Ownership Experience
Genesis continues to sweeten the deal with a generous ownership package:
l 5-year unlimitedkilometre warranty (private buyers)
l 8-year / 160,000 km battery warranty (for electrifed models)
l 5 years / 75,000 km complimentary scheduled servicing
l Genesis “To You”
concierge service, courtesy vehicles, and roadside assistance (5 years, extendable to 10 years if serviced through Genesis)
These after-sales inclusions are among the strongest in the luxury car segment, providing peace of mind alongside the brand’s reputation for attention to detail.
Arrival and Outlook
The updated 2026 Genesis G80 range is expected to reach Australian showrooms next year. With outputs up to 279 kW / 530 Nm for the petrol V6 and a hefty 700 Nm in the Electrifed model, Genesis is clearly positioning the G80 as a serious alternative to European sedans. The new Black fagship adds exclusivity and style to the mix, aiming to capture buyers seeking something distinctive.
For those after a blend of refnement, performance, and long-term value, the 2026 Genesis G80 makes a compelling case as a sophisticated yet bold contender in the luxury sedan market.
Release of 20,000 Home Care Packages
Welcomed but Calls Grow for Further Reform
Robert Heyward
The Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) has welcomed the Federal Government’s announcement that 20,000 new home care packages will be released immediately, but says much more must be done to safeguard older Australians.
Minister for Health and Aged Care, Mark Butler, confrmed the release, which follows mounting calls to address the long waiting times for older people seeking appropriate in-home care. More than 87,000 Australians are currently waiting—some for up to 11 months—for access to their approved level of support.
A step forward, but not far enough OPAN Director of Policy, Education and Systemic
Advocacy, Samantha Edmonds, described the announcement as a “positive step,” particularly ahead of the
new Aged Care Act, which comes into efect on 1 November.
“Inadequate in-home care support can push
Public Health Alert: Cocaine-
Linked Opioid Overdoses Reported in Northern
NSW Health has issued a strong warning after a spate of opioid overdoses among people who believed they were using cocaine — with cases confrmed in Northern NSW as well as Sydney
In August, ten people across the state were hospitalised following suspected opioid overdoses linked to substances sold as cocaine. Three required treatment in intensive care. In several cases where testing was conducted, heroin was found mixed with cocaine
Warning for Northern Rivers residents
The warning is particularly relevant to the Northern Rivers community, where overdoses have been reported. Local health authorities are urging caution, stressing that illicit drug supply is unpredictable and that heroin and other opioids can be mixed into drugs such as cocaine, methamphetamine and MDMA without the user knowing.
Dr Darren Roberts, Medical Director of the NSW Poisons Information Centre, said the signs of
opioid overdose must be recognised quickly.
“Opioids such as heroin can cause pin-point pupils, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, slowed breathing or snoring, and skin turning blue or grey. These symptoms can be life-threatening. An overdose could result from a single line.”
Carry naloxone
Residents who may use, or know someone who uses, cocaine, MDMA,
older people into hospital or prematurely into residential aged care, which is both unfair and avoidable,” Ms Edmonds said.
“Once an older person has been approved for support, they are often left waiting another 12 months to actually receive it. Untenable delays like this put older people at signifcant risk. No one should have to wait more than 30 days for the care they need in their own home.”
Protecting dignity and independence
OPAN says these delays undermine the dignity and wellbeing of older Australians. With the country’s ageing population continuing to
grow, ensuring policies and systems are ft for purpose in 2025 and beyond remains a pressing concern.
“Living independently is a top priority for many older people, and the government must deliver this,” Ms Edmonds said. “We have a shared responsibility to alleviate these challenges and protect the rights of older Australians.”
The release of new packages is expected to provide relief for thousands of households, but advocacy groups argue that systemic reform, investment in workforce capacity, and timely delivery of care remain crucial to meeting demand.
NSW Dementia Symposium Returns to Ballina This October
Jef Gibbs
The Dementia Inclusive Ballina Alliance (DIBA) will host its fourth annual symposium on Friday 17 October 2025 at the Ballina RSL Club, bringing together health professionals, carers, and community members committed to dementia care and support.
Running from 8am to 5pm, the 2025 symposium will focus on the theme of Social Connectedness and its critical role in healthy ageing and dementia care.
social relationships can delay the onset of physical health conditions by up to 15 years, while loneliness can increase dementia risk by 26%. Presentations will highlight the role of social prescribing, innovative care strategies, and the importance of yarning circles in building connectedness for First Nations communities.
methamphetamine, or opioids are urged to carry naloxone — a free, lifesaving medication that reverses the efects of opioids.
Naloxone is available as an easy-to-use nasal spray or injection from some local pharmacies and health services, and can also be mailed discreetly by the NSW Users and AIDS Association (NUAA)
What to do in an emergency
If you or someone nearby experiences unexpected symptoms after drug use:
• Call Triple Zero (000) immediately
• Give naloxone if available
• Seek urgent medical attention — you will not get into trouble for doing so
Where to get help in Northern NSW
•Naloxone program info: yourroom.health.nsw. gov.au
The program features an impressive lineup of expert speakers, including keynote speaker Professor Henry Brodaty from UNSW’s Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing, alongside academics, clinicians, and local practitioners.
The event will explore groundbreaking research, including fndings from Harvard University’s long-term happiness study, which shows that strong
Chair of DIBA, Anne Moehead, said the symposium is a valuable opportunity for participants to broaden their understanding of dementia and ageing while engaging with practical, client-focused information.
“Attendees will have the chance to network, share experiences, and contribute to discussions about developing inclusive environments for people with dementia and their carers,” she said. Registration is now open via Humanitix: events. humanitix.com/dementiainclusive-ballina-annualsymposium-2025.
WHATS ON THE MENU
If weeknight dinners were a dating app, this dish would be the full package: rich, creamy, and only needs one pan (less washing up = true love). It’s got enough spinach to make you feel virtuous, enough cream to make you feel naughty, and chicken that’s so tender you’ll swear it’s been to a spa retreat. Honestly, if your family doesn’t swoon over this, check their pulse.
Ingredients
l 4 chicken breast fllets (skinless, because we’re not savages)
l 1 tbsp olive oil (liquid gold of weeknights)
l 40g butter (because favour deserves indulgence)
l 3 garlic cloves, crushed (aka vampire mace)
l 250ml thickened cream (the star of this saucy romance)
l 125ml chicken stock (to keep it all civilised)
l 60g parmesan, grated (cheesy, in the best way)
l 120g baby spinach (a token nod to health)
l 1 tbsp lemon juice (zing! wakes the whole thing up)
l Salt and pepper, to taste (aka the wardrobe essentials of cooking)
Method
l Heat olive oil in a large pan. Drop in chicken breasts and cook until golden and smug on both sides. Remove and park them like VIPs.
l In the same pan, melt butter and garlic until your kitchen smells like a Tuscan Airbnb.
l Add cream, stock, and parmesan. Stir until it transforms into a silky, luscious sauce that could star in its own soap opera.
l Toss in spinach until it wilts dramatically like a fainting
Ingredient Lemon Eton Mess
This dessert is called Eton Mess because, quite frankly, it looks like someone dropped it on the way to the table. But don’t let appearances fool you — it’s tangy, creamy, crunchy chaos in a bowl, and your taste buds will be writing thank-you notes. Plus, with only fve ingredients, even your laziest housemate could pull this of.
One-Pan Creamy Chicken Florentine
Victorian lady.
l Return chicken to the pan. Simmer gently until cooked through and saucy perfection clings to every bite.
l Finish with lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Serve with bread, pasta, or whatever carb you’re currently emotionally attached to.
Tips for Success
l Don’t skip the parmesan. Without it, this sauce is just cream having an identity crisis.
l Leftovers (if such a mythical thing occurs) are brilliant reheated — but let’s be honest, there won’t be any.
l Serve with wine. Not optional. Mandatory. This dish is proof you don’t need Michelin stars or six burners to make magic. Just one pan, some saucy courage, and the willingness to lick the spoon when no one’s looking.
Lemon Eton Mess
Ingredients
l 250ml thickened cream (fuf in a carton)
l 1 tbsp icing sugar (the fairy dust of desserts)
l 200g store-bought meringues (yes, we’re cheating, and no, we don’t feel bad)
l 200g lemon curd (sunshine in a jar)
l Fresh raspberries (for colour and to pretend we’re healthy)
Method
l Whip cream and icing sugar until soft peaks form — or until your wrist begs for mercy.
l Smash meringues into chunky rubble. Be dramatic about it; stress relief is part of the recipe.
meringues, and lemon curd together. Try not to eat it all straight from the bowl.
l Spoon into glasses, top with raspberries, and serve immediately before it collapses into sweet anarchy.
Tip
The messier it looks, the more authentic it is. Remember: perfection is overrated — delicious chaos is the goal.
landmark showpiece property boasts 1 1km of frontage to the favoured Nymboida River, with its timber homestead enjoying a superior westerly aspect from the water s edge Makatinga weds waterfront lifestyle exclusivity and seclusion with its vast potential as a scalable investment
* 608-Acres \\ 246 30Ha approx * 51km Southwest of Grafton, 129km Northwest of Coffs Harbour, 182km Southwest of Ballina
* Multiple titles and property s scale provide excellent development/subdivision potential
* Accommodation by way of 3 Bedroom timber homestead * Established cleared house site with superb panoramic views already present on separate title * Property possesses established forestry pedigree with an
CATTLE MARKET REPORTS
Week Ending 12 September 2025
Cattle and sheep numbers rose this week at the Warwick & District sales, with strong vendor support across the board. The poultry section again drew plenty of attention, while pork entries slipped slightly. Prices remained on solid ground across all trades.
A total of 1,676 cattle were yarded, presenting buyers with a good mix of processing lines, feeder types, and stock suitable to return to the paddock. The sheep and lamb yarding reached 2,262 head, delivering some standout results, particularly for categories that traditionally attract less attention.
Cattle
• Bulls averaged 348.1c/kg, topping at 430.2c/kg, to return between $1,704 and $3,542.
• Cows averaged 300.2c/kg, topping at 399.2c/kg, for $1,148 to $2,644.
• Feeder heifers averaged 357.3c/kg, topping at 428.2c/kg, making $1,152 to $1,879.
• Feeder steers averaged 458.5c/kg, topping at 558.2c/kg, for $1,618 to $2,268.
• Manufacturing steers averaged 342.9c/ kg, topping at 350.2c/kg, for $1,676 to $1,891.
• Steers averaged 409.8c/kg, topping at 440c/kg, for $2,440 to $2,954.
• Vealer heifers averaged 363.7c/kg, topping at 438.2c/kg, for $670 to $1,045.
• Vealer steers averaged 397.8c/kg, topping at 444.2c/kg, for $704 to $816.
• Yearling heifers averaged 387.2c/kg, topping at 454.2c/kg, for $921 to $1,588.
• Yearling steers averaged 460.1c/kg, topping at 566.2c/kg, returning $1,019 to $1,728.
Sheep & Lambs
Beaudesert, QLD – Agents Bartholomew & Co yarded a larger ofering at their Beaudesert Store Sale on Saturday, with feeder and restocker steers selling to a dearer market. Weaners met strong competition, particularly for well-bred lines, while PTIC heifers and cows also drew solid demand.
Steers
• The Ferguson Family, Palen Creek – Limousin x steers (2 years) sold to $2,040.
• The Drynan Family, Innisplain – Charolais x steers (2 years) sold to $2,020.
• Phil Sherrif, Tamborine –Droughtmaster x steers made $1,990.
• Steve Moriarty, Canungra – Droughtmaster steers (20 months) reached $1,900.
The overall sale of 1,676 head averaged $1,212.95 per head
A frmer trend was evident across categories, with strong buyer demand pushing averages higher.
• Lambs topped at $350/head, averaging $229.31 (up $12).
• Ram lambs topped at $200/head, averaging $113.26 (down $59).
• Heifers averaged 357c/kg, topping at 418c/kg, returning $1,799 to $2,656.
• Hoggets topped at $300/head, averaging $242.82 (up $66).
• Ewes topped at $245/head, averaging $181.80 (up $29).
• Wethers topped at $316/head, averaging $184.95 (down $2).
• Rams topped at $300/head, averaging
• Kerry Klan, Washpool – Shorthorn x steers (20 months) made $1,790.
• Mike Bauer, Beaudesert –Droughtmaster steers (15 months) sold for $1,620.
• Spring Creek Land Corporation, Cryna – Charolais x weaner steers sold for $1,350.
• Leon & Donna Reader, Glamorgan Vale – Droughtmaster weaner steers sold for $1,340.
• Alan Mills, Beechmont – Droughtmaster x weaner steers reached $1,290.
• RA & J Oppermann Pty Ltd, Maroon – Limousin x weaner steers made $1,210.
• Ron Gehrke, Laidley – Droughtmaster weaner steers sold for $1,160.
• Michael Cahill, Hillview – Shorthorn x weaner steers returned $1,130.
• The Dunnett Family, Burnett Creek – Lighter Charolais x weaner steers sold for $1,000. Heifers
•Cribrum Pastoral Co, Lanefeld – PTIC Droughtmaster heifers made $1,770.
$231.78 (up $82).
The combined sheep and lamb sale average lifted $20 to $217.28 per head across 2,262 head.
APL/McDougall & Sons – Sheep & Lamb Report
A further 2,267 head were yarded by APL/McDougall & Sons, drawn from across southern Queensland, the Maranoa, New England, and local districts. The market was described as “pumped and ready to go,” with lambs lifting by $12 and mutton driving the strongest gains.
• Lambs topped at $350, averaging $229.31 (up $12).
• Hoggets topped at $300, averaging $242.82 (up $66).
• Ram lambs topped at $200, averaging $113.26 (down $59).
• Ewes topped at $245, averaging $181.80 (up $29).
• Wethers topped at $316, averaging $184.95 (down $2).
• Rams topped at $300, averaging $231.78 (up $82).
Notable Sales
• Turnbull Family sold Dorset cross lambs, 55.5kg, to Thomas Foods for $281.
• Greenup Maryland P/S sold Poll Dorset lambs, 62.5kg, to Eversons for $350 and $330; rams to Fletchers
•Glenapp Cattle Company Pty Ltd, Running Creek – PTIC Droughtmaster heifers sold for $1,600.
•James Brook, Tamrookum
– Droughtmaster x heifers (15 months) reached $1,205.
•Mike Bauer, Beaudesert –Droughtmaster heifers (14 months) sold for $1,160.
•Paul Mahony, Canungra – Droughtmaster heifers (18 months) returned $1,050.
•CCL International Pty Ltd, Bromelton – Charolais x heifers (14 months) made $1,040.
•Dean Beasley, Jacobs Well – Limousin x heifers (14 months) sold for $1,010.
•Leon & Donna Reader, Glamorgan Vale – Droughtmaster weaner heifers sold for $920.
•B Callaghan & J Harris Pty Ltd, Coulson – Angus x weaner heifers reached $950.
• Michael Cahill, Hillview – Shorthorn x
International for $300, $298, and $180.
• Bushy & Sugary sold Dorset cross ewes to Eversons for $237; rams to Eversons for $300 and to Tony’s Supa Meats for $130.
• Russtanony P/L sold Sufolk lambs, 52.5kg, to Eversons for $340; 40kg Dorper lambs to GR Prime for $233.
• Whetstone Organics sold Dorper lambs, 55.8kg, to Thomas Foods for $266; 47kg to GR Prime for $256.
• Neil Munro sold crossbred lambs, 70kg, to Eversons for $348; lighter lambs, 37–32kg, to GR Prime for $209; hoggets to Eversons for $119; wethers to Eversons for $240.
• Banaba Pastoral sold Dorper lambs, 47kg, to McIntyre Meats for $229; 45kg to GR Prime for $228; 42.2kg to McMahon Bros for $217.
• Kim Nielsen sold 1st-cross Dohne lambs, 62kg, to Fletcher International for $274; 40kg to GR Prime for $187; hoggets, 65.5kg, to Warwick Meats for $180; ewes to Eversons for $198.
• Owen McAuley sold Merino wethers (½ wool) to restockers for $176 and $155.
• James Cowlishaw sold Merino wethers to Fletchers International for $174; ewes to Eversons for $156.
heifers made $850.
• Lloyd & Sheila Venz, Boyland – Limousin x weaner heifers sold for $800.
• The Russell Family Trust, Boonah – Charolais x weaner heifers also sold for $800. Cows & Calves
• Glenapp Cattle Company Pty Ltd, Running Creek – PTIC Droughtmaster cows sold for $1,860.
• Lotus Property Pty Ltd –Droughtmaster cows & calves reached $2,000.
• Rob & Marion Kotsur, Maroon –Droughtmaster cows & calves sold for $1,720.
• Sam Carter, Mount Nathan –Droughtmaster cows sold for $1,700. Bulls
• Glenapp Cattle Company Pty Ltd –Angus bulls topped the sale at $3,000. Next Beaudesert Store Sale: Saturday, 27 September at 9.30am.
Wednesday, 10 September 2025
A smaller yarding of 156 prime cattle was penned at the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange, with a mixed quality yarding across all categories. Despite the lighter numbers, buyers were active and demand held frm, particularly for export-weight bulls and well-fnished steers. Market Highlights
• Bobby calves (7 head) sold from $128 to $150, averaging $133 per head. By the kilo, rates ranged from 220c to 378c/kg, returning $198 to $492.
• Cows and calves (6 head) sold from $700 to $2,100, averaging $1,585 per head.
• Heifers (197 head) sold from 110c to 444c/kg, averaging 362c/kg. Per head returns were between $93 and $2,302.
• Steers (177 head) were in demand, making from 180c to 558c/kg, averaging
434c/kg. Prices returned between $261 and $2,221 per head.
• Bulls (38 head) ranged from 190c to 390c/kg, averaging 344c/kg. Top drafts returned up to $3,803 per head.
• Bullocks (3 head) averaged 370c/kg, with a top of 380c/kg, returning $2,017 to $2,603 per head.
• Vealers (2 head) sold from 340c to 400c/ kg, averaging 381c/kg, returning $816 to $1,050.
• Vealer bulls (26 head) sold strongly,
ranging from 170c to 526c/kg and averaging 376c/kg. Returns per head ranged from $210 to $1,549.
Sale Summary
A total of 640 head were sold, with prices across all descriptions ranging from 50c to 558c/kg. Per head, returns varied from $93 to $3,803. The yarding totalled 436 tonnes, with a combined sale value of $1.61 million Report compiled Wednesday, 10 September 2025.
New look, new theme for Ag Day 2025
Ian Rogers
The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has announced a refreshed approach to this year’s National Agriculture Day celebrations – and this Friday the public can fnd out how they can get behind it.
NFF President David Jochinke said this year’s theme, Stand with the Land, honours the sector’s trials and tribulations.
“We’ve given Ag Day this theme because we want as many people as possible to get behind the day,” Mr Jochinke said.
NFF President David Jochinke
“National Agriculture Day is a fantastic chance to celebrate and
learn about Australia’s incredible farm sector and the wonderful food and
fbre it produces.
“We’re inviting the public to tune into a webinar this Friday to hear about our amazing Ag Day plans.”
The webinar will cover:
• An introduction of this year’s theme, Stand with the Land
• Details of supporter packs available to individuals and organisations
• This year’s Ag Day merchandise
• And information on Ag Day events taking place across the country
National Agriculture Day 2025 Webinar
Date: Friday, 12
September 2025
Time: 12:00pm AEST
Location: Microsoft Teams Registration Link: https://events.
teams.microsoft. com/event/3821e0deb2a8-4247-9c9e1f10b641e01a@ 7a386100-22f6-4adcb20a-22dec1256272
Thousands of Trucks Inspected in National Push for Safer Roads Around Ports
The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has inspected more than 2,500 trucks in a nationwide safety crackdown targeting freight movements through Australia’s busiest ports.
The month-long operation, known as Operation Quay, revealed mechanical faults and mass non-compliance as the most signifcant concerns.
Conducted between 21 July and 17 August 2025, the operation was staged at
major ports including Port Botany, Port of Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide and Bell Bay.
Key Findings
NHVR Chief Operations
Ofcer Paul Salvati said 2,566 heavy vehicles were intercepted, resulting in 905 notices being issued.
“Unfortunately, this is 905 times where some form of non-compliance was found during an intercept – each representing a preventable issue, and a potential risk to the safety of the driver and the wider community,”
Mr Salvati said.
Victoria recorded the highest level of noncompliance, followed closely by South Australia and New South Wales. Mechanical failures topped the list of breaches, with 705 defect notices issued for faulty lights, refectors or brakes. Of these, 43 were classed as major defects and 662 as minor.
Mass-related breaches also raised concerns, with 65 violations detected. Eighteen of those were categorised as severe or
substantial.
“Non-compliance with mass limits has the potential to damage critical infrastructure and compromise a vehicle’s braking ability. These breaches could have ended in disaster had our Safety and Compliance Ofcers not intervened,” Mr Salvati said.
Safety Risks Around Ports
The NHVR noted that trucks transporting shipping containers are more likely to be involved in safety incidents
compared to vehicles carrying general freight, highlighting the need for constant vigilance in high-pressure port environments.
“Ports are high-pressure environments where safety simply cannot take a back seat,” Mr Salvati said.
“The consequences can be severe, and the last thing we want to see are more families, friends and loved ones impacted by road trauma.”
Ongoing Enforcement
The NHVR worked in close partnership with
state police throughout the operation, focusing on both education and enforcement.
“The majority of drivers and operators do the right thing, and we thank them for their commitment to safety,” Mr Salvati said.
“But for those who aren’t, we’ll continue to take action – because no load is worth a life.”
For more information on managing freight container safety risks, visit the NHVR website for guidance on loading, mass and dimension compliance.
Ian Rogers
Australian Producers Shine at Sydney Royal Fine Food Awards
Ian Rogers
From jalapeño candy to beef Philly cheesesteak sausages, Australia’s fnest producers were celebrated last night as the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW (RAS) announced the champions of the 2025 Sydney Royal Fine Food Awards
Judged throughout August, the prestigious competition assessed 1,657 entries across 72 classes and seven unique categories: Aquaculture, Branded Meats, Oils & Olives, Professional Bakery, Pasta, Smallgoods & Charcuterie, and Specialty Foods. Over 81 hours of judging were conducted with the expertise of 110 judges, resulting in 37 champion medals being awarded.
A record year for entries
“This year’s competition saw over 1,600 entries, a 15 per cent increase on 2024,” said Sydney Royal Fine Food Chair, Michael Bullen. “Every exhibit underwent blind-judging
by some of the country’s leading manufacturers, food scientists and chefs. Tonight was a fantastic celebration of Australian producers who consistently deliver worldclass products made with home-grown ingredients.”
All entries must include at least 85 per cent
Australian ingredients , ensuring the event highlights the very best of Australian agriculture and food production. Champion producers and standout products Among the night’s top honours:
• Edible Alchemy claimed Champion Chocolate
or Confectionery for its Cowboy Candy (jalapeños soaked in sugar syrup) and Champion Sweet Preserve for Kimchi Honey Syrup
• Slowbreads Roseville was awarded Champion Sourdough for its Fig, Cranberry and
Beef Exhibit with its Stockyard Black, while Millin’s Free Range Butcher won Champion Fresh Sausage with its Beef Philly Cheesesteak Sausages
• Cofee Mentality earned Champion Cofee for its Auditory Blend 200g
• Rice Culture won Champion Drink for its Organic Black Koji Amazake
Medals in abundance
In addition to the champions, judges awarded an impressive 312 Gold, 549 Silver and 434 Bronze medals across the categories.
Mr Bullen said the breadth of entries refects the growth and innovation of Australia’s fne food industry.
Walnut loaf, while The PIEFATHER took Champion Pie for the MICKTACO pie
• Mandolé Orchard retained its crown, winning Champion Plant-Based Product for its Honey Almond Butter
• Stockyard Beef secured Grand Champion
“It has been fascinating to watch this sector evolve. Consumers will discover truly unique products among this year’s winners, many of which are readily available to try. I encourage people to explore the results and support these world-class producers.”
New Crop of Nufeld Drought Resilience Scholars Announced
Ian Rogers
Australia’s agricultural sector is set to beneft from fresh insights and innovation, with fve new Nufeld Drought Resilience Scholars announced under the Future Drought Fund’s (FDF) Drought Resilience Scholarship Program. The program, a partnership between the FDF and Nufeld Australia, is designed to empower emerging leaders in agriculture to explore new approaches to managing drought and adapting to climate variability. Each scholar receives funding to travel within Australia and overseas, enabling them to learn from global experts, exchange ideas, and bring home practical strategies to strengthen the resilience of Australian farms and communities. Since the program began in 2024, the FDF has supported 15 scholars to undertake this important work, ensuring that knowledge gained is shared widely across the sector. The aim is not only to bolster individual businesses but also to generate long-term benefts for rural communities and industries.
The 2026 Nufeld Drought Resilience Scholars are:
l Jessica Bidgood (Qld): exploring integrated approaches to enhance the production, proftability, and ecological health of grazing systems.
l Blythe Calnan (WA): researching stock
handling methods that build resilience across people, animals, businesses, and landscapes.
l Isobel Hefernan (NT): studying communitydriven approaches to climate resilience in grazing landscapes.
l Kristen Hegarty (NSW): investigating
ways to add value to traditional livestock enterprises, with a focus on boosting both business and climate resilience.
l Kate Watts (Qld): researching how traceability tools, including ultra-high frequency ear tags and automated data systems,
can improve real-time decision-making for smaller and remote producers.
Acting First Assistant Secretary for Farm Resilience, Courtney Bryant, said the program is a vital investment in the future of Australian agriculture. “The FDF Drought Resilience
Scholarship Program supports sustainable, productive farming by funding research, leadership, and knowledge-sharing across regions and industries,” she said.
“These scholars will play a crucial role in connecting communities, industries, and policymakers with practical insights to help build a more resilient agricultural sector.”
By linking Australian producers with international networks, the program ensures that local farmers are exposed to the latest thinking on drought management, while also contributing Australian expertise to the global conversation on climatesmart agriculture.
As climate pressures intensify, the Drought Resilience Scholarships highlight the importance of leadership and collaboration in preparing for future challenges. With this new cohort of scholars, the Future Drought Fund continues its mission to strengthen farm businesses and safeguard rural communities.
For more information on the Drought Resilience Scholarship Program, visit the Department of Agriculture’s website.
Weekly Australian Climate, Water and Agricultural Update
Ian Rogers
Cold fronts and a northwest cloudband brought much-needed rain to several parts of central and southern Australia last week, with variable falls recorded across the nation’s key agricultural regions.
Rainfall
Rainfall totals were patchy but benefcial: l Victoria recorded 5–25 millimetres.
l Southern New South Wales saw 5–15 millimetres.
l Western Australia, South Australia, and northern NSW experienced higher falls of up to 50 millimetres. Looking ahead, the Bureau forecasts further widespread rain for the eight days to 18 September 2025:
l NSW and Victoria can expect 10–50 millimetres.
l Western Australia, South Australia, and southern Queensland are likely to see 5–25 millimetres.
l Northern Queensland will largely miss out. If realised, these falls should support crop and pasture growth, while boosting soil moisture reserves in many areas.
Seasonal Outlook
The national outlook for October to December 2025 points to abovemedian rainfall across much of Australia.
Northern Western Australia and western Tasmania are more likely to see below-median
totals, while other regions face equal chances of wetter or drier conditions. For most farming regions, this raises confdence in good spring and early summer pasture growth, along with timely planting and establishment of dryland summer crops in eastern Australia.
Water Storage
Water storage in the Murray–Darling Basin rose by 190 gigalitres (GL) between 4 and 11 September 2025, reaching 15,329 GL, or 69% of capacity. However, levels remain 16% lower than this time last year.
Water Markets
Allocation prices in the Victorian Murray below the Barmah Choke
lifted from $262/ML on 4 September to $278/ML on 11 September 2025 Trade remains restricted:
l Goulburn to Murray –closed.
l Downstream through the Barmah Choke – closed.
l Murrumbidgee to Murray – closed.
Northern Rivers Outlook
While the national picture shows encouraging rainfall and water storage trends, the Northern Rivers region faces its own set of conditions.
l Rainfall: Northern NSW, including parts of the Northern Rivers, recorded up to 50 millimetres in the week ending 10 September 2025. These falls have been patchy, with inland areas often missing out
compared to the coastal fringe.
l Pastures: For graziers, the moisture has been a welcome boost, supporting spring pasture growth and improving feed quality for cattle and sheep. However, rainfall needs to continue to ensure consistency through summer.
l Cropping: Winter crops in nearby inland areas are expected to beneft from the September rainfall. The upcoming forecast of 10–50 millimetres by 18 September should help replenish soil profles ahead of summer planting.
l Outlook: The seasonal forecast of abovemedian rainfall through October–December is positive news. If realised, it should support hay and silage production, summer crop establishment, and keep pastures strong heading into the hotter months.
For the Northern Rivers, this outlook ofers cautious optimism—with rainfall now needed at regular intervals to build resilience after years of highly variable seasonal conditions.
l Water Security: While the Murray–Darling Basin storages rose slightly, the Clarence and Richmond catchments remain heavily dependent on local rainfall. Consistent spring falls will be essential to sustain farm dams and creeks that many producers rely on.
(L to R): Isobel Hefernan, Kristen Hegarty, Blythe Calnan, Kate Watts, Jess Bidgood, Chris Toyne photo supplied
One Week to Go: AgXchange Australia Brings Tough Conversations and Big Ideas
The countdown is on. In just one week, AgXchange Australia will transform the Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre into the nation’s premier stage for the future of farming. Running from 23–25 September 2025 , the National Farmers’ Federation’s biennial fagship event is where the bush meets the beach—and where agriculture’s biggest challenges and boldest opportunities take centre stage.
With more than 50, high-impact speakers AgXchange is set to deliver sharp insights, tough conversations, and practical pathways for the future of farming. The line-up blends wellknown names with fresh new voices, ofering perspectives from paddocks, laboratories, boardrooms, and beyond.
Speaker Highlights
• Olly “Blogs” Harrison
– UK farmer-
entrepreneur and social media powerhouse who mobilised 50,000 farmers to push back against proposed inheritance tax changes.
• Hon Julie Collins MP – Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.
• Billy Slater – Rugby
league legend turned coach, bringing lessons in leadership and resilience beyond sport.
• Roger Fletcher – Export powerhouse with decades of frontline experience in international trade.
• Farmer voices – including David
Connolly (Tipperary Group of Stations NT), Fiona Simson, Nat Sommerville (Windjara Ag), and Karen Penfold (Four Daughters Beef). Debate Showdown A crowd favourite returns with a polarising topic: “Do the lack of subsidies make Australian
farmers more efcient, or simply more exposed?”
• Afrmative team
: Martin Murray, the quick-witted #agchatoz voice, and Felicity Richards, fearless advocate for farm safety.
• Negative team : Gillian Fennell, the outback cattle
producer with razorsharp commentary, and David “DJ” Jochinke, president of Australia’s peak farm body. Themes & Tough Conversations
Across three days, sessions will dig into the defning issues for agriculture:
• Innovation and sustainability
• Global trade and supply chains
• Workforce and regional resilience
• Connectivity and technology
• Mental health and community wellbeing Event Snapshot
• When: 23–25 September 2025
• Where: Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre, Broadbeach, Queensland
• Themes: Innovation, Sustainability, Risk, Farming Communities and Supply Chain
• Tickets & Program: agxchange.com.au
Viv Oldfield Expands Outback Cattle Empire with Murranji Station Purchase
Ian Rogers
Northern Territory pastoralist Viv Oldfeld has added another jewel to his growing cattle empire with the purchase of Murranji Station, one of the most historic and renowned properties in the outback.
The acquisition, fnalised this month, cements Oldfeld’s reputation as one of Australia’s most infuential cattle barons. It also expands his footprint across key grazing regions, ensuring greater scale, security, and market presence for his vertically integrated beef operations.
A Historic Property
Murranji Station, located along the legendary Murranji Stock Route, is steeped in history. The route itself became famous in the late 1800s as one of the toughest droving paths in the country, remembered for its isolation, heat,
and the courage of the stockmen who braved it.
Today, Murranji remains a strategically valuable pastoral asset, ofering expansive grazing lands ideally suited for largescale cattle production. While sale fgures were not publicly disclosed, industry sources suggest the deal is worth tens of millions of dollars,
refecting both the property’s heritage and its ongoing productivity.
Oldfeld’s Expanding Reach
The Murranji purchase adds to an already formidable network of stations controlled by Oldfeld. Over the past two decades, he has steadily expanded his holdings across the
Northern Territory and beyond, often working in partnership with Indigenous landowners and local communities.
Known for his nononsense business style, Oldfeld has long advocated for efciency, scale, and global market access as the keys to Australia’s cattle industry. His operations
stretch from breeding and backgrounding to feedlots and live export supply chains, giving him a unique position in the beef sector.
A Boost for the North Industry observers say Oldfeld’s move underscores the long-term confdence in northern Australia’s cattle industry, even as producers face
challenges from climate variability, biosecurity risks, and volatile global markets.
By consolidating land and herds under experienced management, pastoralists like Oldfeld are helping stabilise supply, invest in infrastructure, and ensure employment in remote communities.
Looking Ahead
For Oldfeld, Murranji represents not just another station but a continuation of a legacy. By bringing one of the most storied properties in the Northern Territory into his portfolio, he has both honoured the past and signalled his belief in the future of northern beef. With global demand for protein rising, and Australian producers seeking to secure their place in competitive markets, Oldfeld’s latest purchase is a clear sign that the outback cattle empire is far from fnished.
Kusumi Gardens: Bringing Seasonal Colour and Calm to Your Backyard
Jef Gibbs
Gardens can be more than just a collection of plants—they can be living works of art. Kusumi Gardens, inspired by Japanese design traditions, use colour, form, and seasonal rhythm to create spaces that are both calming and vibrant. While these gardens have roots in Asia, the Northern Rivers climate makes it possible to adapt their style with plants that thrive locally.
The Colour Story of a Kusumi Garden
Kusumi Gardens are known for their balance of colour through the seasons:
l Spring welcomes pale pinks and whites from blossoms, paired with fresh green shoots.
l Summer bursts with deep greens, purples, and blues, often softened by water refections.
l Autumn delivers dramatic reds, oranges, and golds as foliage begins to turn.
l Winter shifts to muted tones, with evergreen strength and the occasional surprise bloom of white or red. The result is a natural fow where every season has something to celebrate.
Plant Choices for Northern Rivers Gardens
The key to creating your own Kusumi-style retreat is selecting plants that refect this colour cycle while suiting our subtropical conditions.
l Trees and Shrubs
• Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum): Will grow in sheltered spots here, especially in cooler valleys.
• Crepe Myrtle: A local favourite with vibrant summer fowers and fery autumn foliage.
• Camellias: Hardy in our region and perfect for winter colour.
• Frangipani: While not traditional, its sculptural branches and summer blooms ft beautifully into a Kusumi layout.
l Flowers and Perennials
• Azaleas: Thrive in shaded areas, giving a spring burst of pink, purple, or white.
• Iris: Ideal for wetter garden edges, adding height and elegance.
• Hibiscus: A tropical twist that holds bold colour through summer.
l Groundcovers and Moss Alternatives
• Native Violet: A spreading plant with purple fowers that does well in shaded, damp corners.
• Dichondra ‘Silver Falls’: Provides a cascading efect, great around stones or pots.
• Liriope: Hardy and grass-like, perfect for edging pathways.
l Water Plants
• Lotus or Water Lily: Both grow well in our climate, turning ponds or tubs into serene focal points.
Designing for Flow and Refection
Kusumi Gardens aren’t about packing in plants— they’re about creating space to pause. Gravel paths, stepping stones, or a simple timber bench help draw attention to the plantings. Water features, even a small birdbath, mirror the colours around them and add to the sense of calm. Locally, think about using basalt rocks or recycled timber for edging, both of which blend well with the natural landscape of the Northern Rivers.
A Living Artwork in Your Backyard
A Kusumi-inspired garden is never fnished. It evolves through the seasons, with colours and textures shifting year after year. By combining traditional plants with local favourites, Northern Rivers gardeners can enjoy spaces that celebrate both heritage and homegrown beauty.
Whether you live on a rural property or have a compact town garden, the principles of Kusumi design—balance, seasonal colour, and gentle fow— can transform your patch of earth into a place of peace and inspiration.
Top 5 Plant Picks for a Kusumi Garden in the Northern Rivers
l Japanese Maple –Fiery autumn leaves in sheltered spots.
l Crepe Myrtle – Summer fowers and brilliant autumn foliage.
l Camellia – Reliable winter blooms in pink, red, or white.
l Native Violet –Spreading groundcover with soft purple fowers.
l Lotus or Water Lily – A serene touch for ponds or tubs.
Passed away peacefully at Ballina Hospital at 100 years of age.
Dearly loved wife of Jack (dec).
Devoted mother & mother-in-law of Kevin & Sandra, Bernard (dec), Jackie Wotton, Adrian, Greg, Chris, Mick & Robyn.
Proud grandma of 19 grandchildren and “ma” to 27 great grandchildren. In Our Hearts You Will Always Be Loved And Cherished Eternally.
Requiem Mass for the repose of Ailsa’s soul will be celebrated at
FANNING, Patricia (Pat)
It is with deep sorrow that we announce that Pat passed away 9 September 2025.
Beloved Wife of Raymond (decd). Mother of Robert (decd), Louise, Michael, John, and Peter (decd).
Grandmother of Ainsley, Lazlo, Lewis, Riley, and Great Grandmother to Atlas, and Talon.
Family and friends are invited to attend Pat’s Funeral Service to be held at Pullen Chapel, 3-7 Prince Street Grafton, Monday 22 September 2025, commencing at 12:00noon.
St Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Cherry Street, Ballina on FRIDAY (September 19, 2025) commencing at 9.30 am.
After Mass the cortege will leave for the East Ballina Cemetery.
Dingo mini digger & stump grinder goes anywhere
CASINO/KYOGLE BONALBO CORAKI WOODBURN EVANS HEAD
• Tree & Palms Removed
• 17m Cherry Picker
• Larger Chipper • Stump Grinder
• Qualified Arborist
• Tree Detailing
• Climbers • Rubbish Removed
OUR EQUIPMENT IS IDEAL FOR SITES WITH LIMITED ACCESS
ALSTONVILLE QUOTA CLUB
PH: 0408 620 829 or 6662 2025
COMMUNITY NOTICES
must be emailed to community@heartlandmedia.com.au before 3pm Fridays
Phone numbers only, no email addresses. Get the word out about your Club, Membership, Events, etc
ALSTONVILLE
CRAWFORD HOUSE MUSEUMAnchor
Visit Crawford House Museum, an original farmhouse where you can see many interesting household objects which reflect family life from the beginning of the 20th century to the 1960s. There are also research facilities for information about Ballina Shire, as well as books about local history and other great merch. for sale. If you’re a support worker and you bring a client to the museum, your admission is free. And if you enjoy meeting and greeting visitors to our lovely part of the world, welcoming visitors to the museum is most rewarding. If you’re interested in joining our team of hosts for three hours a month, email us or drop in to the museum on Fridays. Crawford House Museum is at 10 Wardell Road Alstonville and is open on Fridays between 10am and 4pm and Sundays between 1pm and 4pm or at other times by appointment for groups.
Alstonville RSL
Alstonville RSL sub-Branch meets on the second Saturday of the month, with morning tea at 10am followed by the meeting, then a light luncheon from 1200. All ex-service persons and families are welcome to attend the lunch.
Quilters Alstonville
We are called Plateau Quilters Alstonville we meet the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the Month at the RSL Hall Alstonville from 1pm until 4pm New members would be most welcome. Bonner 66298267
ALSTONVILLE BRANCH OF THE RED CROSS
The Alstonville Red Cross branch meets monthly in Alstonville. As meeting dates sometimes vary, please call Carol on 0424 742 774 for details of our next meeting.
ALSTONVILLE PROBUS CLUB
Alstonville Probus Club meets on the last Thursday of each month at Plateau Sports Club at 10.00 am. This commences with a cupper and chat, with the formal meeting commencing at 10.30 which includes an interesting guest speaker. All visitors are welcome.
A local women’s service club that meets on the 1st Tuesday of the month at the Plateau Sports Club. Quota is committed to supporting and improving the physical and mental wellbeing of the disadvantaged in our community through local projects.
EMBROIDERERS GROUP
Meetings are 9.30am-1.30pm, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays and 2nd Saturday of each month. Our venue is the Resource Centre at the rear of Crawford House Museum, Alstonville. We welcome embroiderers of all ability levels to meet, share and learn.
THE RETURNED AND SERVICES LEAGUE OF AUSTRALIA NSW Branch
ALSTONVILLE SUB-BRANCH
Alstonville RSL sub-Branch will now hold their monthly meetings on the second Wednesday of the month at 11am at the RSL Hall, 13 Bugden Ave (next door to the Alstonville Medical Centre). All ex-Service persons are welcome to attend, and we have a convivial morning tea on completion of the meeting. Alston suppliers and ranch have a ‘Lower Deck Luncheon’ at 1200 each Friday, everyone is welcome, we sit out the back of the Hall, order lunch from local suppliers, and have great conversations with good mates. There is always plenty of support & advice on any issue!
BALLINA
BALLINA LADIES PROBUS CLUB
The Ballina Ladies Probus Club meets on the first Wednesday of each month at 10:00 am at the Ballina RSL Club. We currently have vacancies and warmly welcome new members and visitors to join us for our monthly meetings, social outings, and special events – all centred around fun, fellowship, and friendship. At our October meeting, we’re pleased to welcome Michelle McLeod, Regional Co-ordinator for Orange Sky, a unique mobile laundry and shower service supporting people experiencing homelessness and hardship. Join us for a delicious lunch at Wok Star, West Ballina, on Wednesday, 15th October at 12:00 pm – great food and even better company! Looking ahead, we’re planning a fun-filled shopping trip to Robina on Wednesday, 12th November – an outing not to be missed! For more information about our club or upcoming events, please contact our President, Jeanette, on 0407 417 470. We’d love to hear from you!
Community Kids! Precious Treasure
Children are the most precious treasure a community can possess, for in them are the promise and guarantee of the future, through our collective attention and support, we ensure a brighter future for them. Parents and community members, your involvement is vital. Years of experience, join our Lennox Head Kids group age 5 to 12 to learn about community values through project, stories and Bahá’í inspired quotes promoting Unity, harmony, and kindness. Location: CWA hall (Lennox Head cultural centre) 8 August 2025 (every Friday) to 7 November 2025 Time: 16:30 -17:30
Contact: Parvin Mansouri, 0481390767 Fee $5
Ballina Photography Club meets on the first Thursday of the month at Northlakes Community Centre, 1 Mulloway Place, Ballina from 6pm to 9pm.We are currently looking for new members and visitors are always welcome. We are a group of enthusiastic photographers who live in and around Ballina. Members share a common interest in photography and have monthly outings to take photos and share images at meetings. Please contact our President Lyn on 0412 758 697
Ballina Meals on Wheels
Knitting and Crochet for Charity Group run by Ballina Meals on Wheels. Group held Monday mornings in Ballina and open to people who are 65years and older. $5 includes morning tea. Call Kristen on Ph: 0419 679719 for more information.
ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A NEW HOBBY??? COME AND JOIN THE HEADLINERS CHORUS We are an all-female group of all ages who love to sing “Acappella” in 4-part Barbershop harmony. We are well known in the Northern Rivers community and would love you to join us. Come along to a rehearsal on Monday nights from 7pm and for more information see our website or enquire to Tracey Ezzy on 0438 446 809
BALLINA ARTS & CRAFTS CENTRE INC. (BACCI)
We are a diverse group of Artists and Crafters that participate in wonderful group exhibitions. Over 50 members are from all over the Northern Rivers. Meetings are usually on the 1st Tuesday of every
month at the Cherry Street Sports Club. Social gathering at 5, for a 5.30 start. Ph: Rosie 0438401716
BALLINA BRIDGE CLUB
Social play every Monday 9am to 11:30am.”. Sessions for all levels of players on Mon, Wed, Sat from 1pm to about 5pm. Be seated at 12:45. Restricted session (under 300 Masterpoints) Thu 1pm – about 5pm. Friday mornings, Help with Play on Fri am times 9am - 11:30. Open to anyone who would like some help with their game from teachers on duty. 9am to about 11:15pm
Sessions are $5 for members and $7 for visitors at 13 North Ck Rd, Ballina Call Judy Forsyth: 0407664337.
Ballina Coastal Quilters
We meet at the North Lakes Community Hall in Whiting Way, Ballina on a Wednesday twice a month from 9 am to 2 pm.
The group gives opportunities for friendship, support, and socialisation. and to celebrate our creative achievements in the area of quilting and related stitchery. We encourage our members to seek and share knowledge of their skills. New members would be most welcome. The cost is $5 per session Georgia 66876834
BALLINA EVENING VIEW CLUB
Meets on the second Wednesday of each month at the Ballina RSL Club at 6.30 for dinner at 7pm - Guests are always welcome. Our members support the education of disadvantaged children in Australia by fundraising activities and social events in our local community for The Smith Family - by sponsoring 5 Learning for Life students. Ph: Julie Stephan 0434988770.
BALLINA FREE COMMUNITY HOT BRUNCH
Ballina Free Community Hot Brunch, First Saturday of each month.
Everyone is invited to come and enjoy a hot brunch of sausages, rissoles bacon & eggs, cereal, tea and co ee. Or just come for a chat. Frozen take away meals available. Held at the Ballina Presbyterian Hall Corner of Cherry & Crane St Ballina 10AM TO 12PM Carol: 0438812235
BALLINA LIGHTHOUSE RSL DAY CLUB
A Day Club for elderly and isolated people in our community, held every Thursday at the Richmond Room Ballina. Enjoy morning tea and a mental stimulation exercise like Tai Chi, followed by lunch and afternoon musical entertainment. Every Thursday 10am to 2pm cost $10 Richmond Room, Regatta Avenue Ballina RSVP Lorraine Fox 66874350, 0439301249
BALLINA SENIOR CITIZENS BRIDGE CLUB
Social Bridge Play in Seniors Hall. Swift Street Ballina on Wednesday & Saturdays @ 12.05 pm Enquiries Phone: 0493425002 for details.
BALLINA TOY LIBRARY
Welcomes families from Ballina Shire. 9 Regatta Avenue, Ballina. Open Tuesdays 1pm - 3pm, and Saturdays 10am - 1pm. Ph. 0411719074.
IN FOCUS TOASTMASTERS CLUB
How about trying something di erent? If you would like to improve your communication and leadership skills or simply make new friends and have fun, you are warmly invited to attend the In Focus Toastmasters Club. We meet the 3rd Wednesday evening of each month. You may attend either from the comfort of your own home via zoom or join us in person at the Cherry Street Sports Club, Ballina.
Broadwater
Dungarubba Country Music at Broadwater Hall
Saturday 27th September 11.30- 4.30 Entry $5 including afternoon tea Lunch available Lucky Door Ra les Variety of Artists Enquires Joy 0400 372 948
BRUNSWICK HEADS
BRUNSWICK VALLEY VIEW CLUB
Brunswick Valley VIEW Club’s monthly luncheons are held at Brunswick Heads Bowling Club on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 10.30am for 11am.Apologies to Wenda on 0449 563 580 no later than the Monday before. VIEW stands for Voice, Interests and Education of Women. The club supports seven disadvantaged students in The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program. 1800 805 366
CASINO
CASINO COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB INC
Our September social will be held upstairs at the
Casino RSM Club
On Sunday 21st from 10.00am - 3pm everyone is welcome Come along and enjoy some great country music and take advantage of the meals & drinks o ered by the RSM Club. New Artists are always welcome. Free entry, Ra les More Info contact Carole 0438641500
CWA Casino
Our next meeting is this Thursday 18th Sep (3rd Thursday of the month). The Land Cookery entries for September are Coconut Loaf, Tomato Jam and Microwave Strawberry Jam. All cookery/recipe enquiries -Ellie Maloney 0421595398. Rita Nicholls will be demonstrating how to make Sugar Roses. Everyone is welcome, come and have a cuppa see what we are doing in our community Enquires Margaret Good 66621746, Jane Flick 0427 707 669.
CASINO CHARITY CASH BINGO
if you would like to come along and join us each at Casino RSM Club each Thursday mornings 10.00an or Thursday evenings 7.00pm, you are most welcome! Great cash prizes! For any enquiries please don’t hesitate to contact Jan Danaher on 0414625680.
Line dance
Line dance classes in Casino at St Marks Hall beginners welcome 5pm every Monday first 2 classes free. Info call or sms Lorraine 0418264489
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN LEARNING to KNIT, SEW or CROCHET We are looking for interested people who would like to join a class to learn Through the School Holidays both Adults and Children are welcome Starting 6th Jan 2025 Classes will be organised once we have enough interested people Call Margaret 0488 245 029 or Jacqui 0419 404 216 to express your interest and get more information Casino Meals are desperately needing Volunteers, to contact the o ice on 66621217. Volunteering once a month for 1hour or so
CASINO COMMUNITY MEN’S SHED Mon, Tues, Wed, attendance limited to 50 members, 8am-1.30pm. Contact 66626423
CASINO & DISTRICT FAMILY HISTORY GROUP INCW are open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am to 2pm, Wednesdays from 12pm to 4pm and every third Saturday from 9 am to 11.30 am. We are in Room 5, Upstairs in the School of Arts building in Walker Street, Casino. Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month at 10 am. For a small fee we can do research for you as well. Call 6664 1118
Cassino Gallery Inc.
148 Barker St. Casino. Open Thursday to Saturday 10am to 3pm during exhibitions. Regular exhibitions, workshops, classes, and some markets during the year. Contacts Ralph 0418 485 770, Laszlo 6662 1943, Meg 0435 111 463. Artists, professional/amateur welcome to enquire about exhibiting their work at the Gallery.
CASINO LADIES AND FRIEND CRAFT GROUP Meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday of each month. Bring your own morning tea. Names to be in by lunch time Monday. Phone Vivian on 66621838 or Jan on 66626424. Casino & District Orchid Society Meet the 4th Thursday each month. At St Marks Anglican Hall @ 6:30pm
CASINO MINI RAIL
Every Sunday we are now open from 9.00am to 2.30pm every Sunday (weather permitting). West Street Casino. Phone 0455673722.
CASINO MIXED PROBUS CLUB
Our Meeting is on fourth Thursday of each month at Casino RSM Club at 10:00am. Contact Kathleen Gri ins, President phone 0427622470 or Daphne Boyd, Secretary phone 0400070085.
CASINO UNITING CHURCH
CAFÉ PRAISE…. Every Wednesday @ 10-11am. All Welcome 10am Morning Tea Fellowship. Welcome and Chat 10.30am Praise and Worship
CASINO VIEW CLUB
Monthly luncheon meeting at Casino RSM Club at 11am, second Thurs of every month. Contact Jan on 0418715374
CASINO AA MEETING – ID MEETING
is held every Tuesday 12:00-1:30pm At the Casino Baptist Church, corner of West & Canterbury Streets Casino. Newcomers welcome. Contact George 0427 133 372.
CASINO AA WOMEN’S MEETINGS
Held every 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month, 12 –1.30pm at the Casino Baptist Church House, 137 Canterbury St, Casino. Contact Liz 0427133370.
LION’S CLUB CASINO
Lion’s Club meeting is held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday each month at Casino RSM Club from 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start. Denise Green 0448014682
LISMORE CASINO NAVAL ASSOCIATION
Meets bi-monthly at Casino RSM, new members welcome. Ph: Chris 66293269 or Jim 0427400625.
THE PLATYPUS RSL DAY CLUB operates every Tuesday at the Community Centre from 10am to 2pm. The day consists of gentle exercises, mental stimulation, games, and entertainment. Members are asked to pay $7 for their morning tea and lunch. Transport can be provided within the town limits. If you are feeling socially isolated or just need a day out, please contact Robyn on 66623871. New members are welcome.
Eltham
ELTHAM MASONIC LODGE - The Eltham Masonic Lodge welcomes all masons, to attend their monthly meetings, which are held on the fourth Tuesday, each month at the Eltham Masonic Centre. The meetings commence at 7.30 pm. If you are not a mason and are interested in joining Freemasonry, for more information please visit our website or phone 0416530456
EVANS HEAD
Evans Head Parkinson’s Support group will meet at 10am to 12noon on Thursday, September 25th at The Community Hall Great Room, Thyme Clubhouse, 74 Currajong St. Evans Head. Our special Guests will be Lismore Base Hospital Stoma/ Continence Nurse, Ed Cook as well as our Specialist Parkinson’s Movement disorder Nurse, Tim Ayer’s. Tea/co ee and snacks are available for a gold coin donation. All members of the Parkinson’s Community, family and friends are most welcome to attend. For information: Ph Di: 0423941119”
EVANS HEAD SEAGULLS CRAFT & QUILTERS GROUP
Meet every Tuesday 9am-12noonin the Recreation Hall (opposite the Kiosk). We invite you to join us for a relaxing morning of crafting, friendship and sharing ideas. Beginners are very welcome. Finishing UFO’s, Embroidery, Gold Work, Hexagons, & Group Projects are just some of the crafts done.
The Rotary Club of Evans Head Markets held on the Last Saturday of the month held at Cribb Reserve opposite Illawong Hotel at 8am1pm. A vast variety of stores from clothes, candle, Honey Photographs, books, and Organic Vegetables along with Rotary Bacon & Egg Rolls
Rotary Evans
Rotary Evans Head holds meeting the 1st and 3rd Monday of the month 5.30pm at Evans Head RSL downstairs in remembrance room. New members warmly welcomed. Cont. Sue 0438853921
EVANS HEAD CWA BRANCH
meets every third Tuesday for lunch at noon. New members welcome. More info 0419 753 579
EVANS RIVER RSL DAY CLUB
The Evans River RSL Day Club meets each Monday in the Remembrance Room at Club Evans RSL Evans Head from 10am until 2pm Cost $10 includes Morning Tea and Lunch. We have several vacancies for volunteers and members, anyone who is feeling in need of some company are welcome to attend. Come along and join in the fun. Contact Merilyn 0401493316.
GOONELLABAH
TABLE TENNIS AT GOONELLABAH
Tuesday and Thursday mornings social playing: 9am-12noon; Monday and Wednesday nights social playing: 7-9pm; Training Monday mornings: 9am12noon; Junior coaching after school Wednesday 3.30pm-4.45pm, $6 a session. Everybody is welcome – all levels. Phone centre on 66251602. Mon-Thurs 9.00am-1.00pm
THE PROBUS CLUB of Goonellabah meets on the 3rd Thursday of each month at the Workers Sports Club in Oliver Ave. All welcome. Goonellabah Probus is solely a social club. We have a guest speaker each month and go for outings throughout the year. Meetings on Thursday commence at 10am and finish at midday. For further information, Liz 0451 020 241
GRAFTON
GRAFTON U3A
Our next Jabberfest will be held at 10:00am on 13 October 2025 at New Life Church Centre Arthur Street Grafton where our guest presenter will be Dr Bill Wynn, senior inpatient physiotherapist at Grafton Base Hospital. Bill works predominantly across surgical, intensive care and coronary care areas and his team assist patients to regain function following illness, injury or accidents to enable safe discharge and promote ongoing rehabilitation that continues in the outpatient setting of the hospital. November will be our final Jabberfest for the year and will include as guest speaker Grafton identity Je Smith of “I Scream” fame. In September, we acknowledged the 50th Anniversary of Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) granting of Independence with guest speaker and member Ken Woodward who was there on 16 September 1975 sharing his memories of that historic day. The election of o icers and committee members at our Annual General Meeting in August resulted in the committee undergoing a refresh with four new committee members stepping up to replace those retiring. Dennis Kelly, Jabber Journal editor was awarded Life Membership. Aside from our monthly Jabberfest with a guest presenter and morning tea, Grafton U3A o ers a range of courses/interest groups covering a wide spectrum of activities promoting learning for personal enjoyment and wellbeing. Keeping the brain active, making new friends and helping members to maximize their independence by remaining healthy and active for longer. Course and Interest Group details are available on the Grafton U3A website, and all groups are always happy to welcome new members. Members also receive the monthly newsletter “Jabber Journal” to keep them up to date. If you are considering membership of Grafton U3A and would like more information, please contact Bruce Carle on 0409 225 536.U3A is the University of the Third Age and a worldwide movement. It is the age of active retirement coming after the ages of youth, work and home making. University is rather a loose term as there are no academic requirements for membership and no exams. New members are always most welcome.
Grafton Al-Anon Family Group
The Grafton Al-Anon Family Group is celebrating 24 years in the Grafton community this month. We are holding a special meeting on Tuesday, 23rd September, from 12md to 1.30pm in the Salvation Army Hall 91-93 Oliver Street, Grafton. All members and interested persons are invited to attend. There will be a guest speaker from Grafton Alcoholics Anonymous, and a light lunch served following the meeting. A variety of information flyers and a free newcomer’s pack will be available. Come along and meet the Grafton Al-Anon Family Group. We o er support and friendship to family and friends of problem drinkers. We meet at the Salvation Army Hall every Tuesday from 12md-1.30pm. Our meetings are always confidential. For further information or to talk to a member in confidence, you can call Al-Anon on 1300 252 666
Grafton CWA
CWA Awareness Week is from 7-13th September and Grafton CWA will be having a display in Grafton Eyecare, Prince St, for 2 weeks, from 5th -19th September. The display will reflect the statewide focus on seasonal eating, and the need to change how we think about, purchase and consume foods and reduce waste. There will also be information about CWA and what the organisation does. Grafton Branch CWA meetings are held on the 2nd Friday of each month, at Grafton District Services Clubmorning tea at 9.30am, followed by the meeting at 10am. New members are always welcome. Handicraft mornings are held on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month at the Salvation Army Hall, Oliver St, starting at 9.30am.
GRAFTON’S MIGHTY CLARENCE TOASTMASTERS
CLUB
Perhaps it’s time to find out what it’s all about! If you would like to improve your communication and leadership skills. Make new friends and have fun, you are warmly invited to attend the Mighty Clarence Toastmasters Club. We meet on the 1st & 3rd Wednesday evening of each month. You may attend either from the comfort of your own home via zoom or join us in person at the Joan Muir Community Centre: 194 Turf Street, Grafton.
GRAFTON SENIORS BE FIT EXERCISE CLASSES
Every Friday at the Uniting Church, Prince Street. Join us for gentle exercises designed for Seniors. We meet at 10.30a.m. for a cuppa and a chat with
the exercises commencing at 11. All equipment is provided and there is no cost to the participants. Further information can be obtained from Chris 0400490691 or Dot on 66423248 or 0477213017
Grafton VIEW Club
Grafton VIEW Club meets on the 4th Tuesday each month at Grafton District Services Club, Mary Street, commencing at 10.30am. Please come along & enjoy yourself with a tasty meal, motivated guest speaker & at the same time you will help disadvantaged children.
Please phone Helen at 6642 3867 for catering purposes no later than the Friday before the meeting. As well, a social outing is held each month. You are warmly invited to come along, have some fun & you will be helping others as well. See you there!
CLARENCE RIVER HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Clarence River Historical Society- Schae er House Museum.
190 Fitzroy Street Grafton. 2460. Phone 0266425212. We are welcoming many visitors through the museum, often from interstate and on bus trips, not only to see our wonderful collection of artefacts gathered over 90 years but also to research family history and/or places of interest in the Valley. Research Room hours are from 9 to 3 Tuesday to Thursday and Museum hours are from1 to 4 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Other times can be arranged. Admission is $6 for adults and $3 for children. If you would like to become a member of our Society and receive our interesting newsletters contact the Secretary, Robyn. Membership fees are $27 yearly.
HASTINGS POINT
HASTINGS POINT COMMUNITY CHOIR
Do you enjoy singing. Our repertoire covers a variety of music styles – both unison and part singing We would love you to join us. New members needed. You will be made most welcome When: Tuesday Evenings from 7pm – 8.30pm Where: Tricare Residential Village Community Room Tweed Coast Road, next to Shell Petrol Station. For more information, contact Jean Berry 0414794380
PROBUS CLUB OF HASTINGS POINT - The Probus Club of Hastings Point Tweed Coast meets at Hastings Point Tricare resident’s lounge, on 3rd Tuesday each month, commencing with a guest speaker at 10am. Retirees and seniors are welcome to join this happy social group. Phone the Probus president Di Mills 044 732 5387 for more information.
KINGSCLIFF
KINGSCLIFF 500 CARD CLUB
Kingscli 500 Card Club. Monday and Wednesday afternoons 1pm to 4pm Cudgen Surf Club New players WELCOME Contact: GARY 0499869992
Kingscliff Probus Club
First Wednesday of the month, 10am to 12 noon in the function room of Kingscli Bowls Club. We have an interesting guest speaker each month plus bus trips to various points on the map each third Wednesday of the month. Retirees and seniors are most welcome to join us in this happy social group. Ph Marlene 0428323736
KYOGLE
BORDER RANGES RSL DAY CLUB
The Kyogle Border Ranges RSL Day Club meets each Monday in the Kyogle Seniors Centre, 3 Bloore St, Kyogle, from 10am to 2pm.Cost $10, includes Morning Tea and Lunch. We welcome Volunteers and Members, if you are in need of some Company, you are welcome to attend. Come along and have some fun. Contact Oriel 0427245324.
KYOGLE WRITERS GROUP
Kyogle Writers Group meets on the last Saturday of each month and we welcome newcomers. We meet at the Roxy Lane back. entrance to the Kyogle Memorial Institute (Supper Room). Our aim is to provide support and encouragement for those new to writing, as well as more experienced writers. We practice many genres of writing poetry, memoir, and journaling to name a few. Morning tea at 9.30am is followed by our meeting from 10.00am till 12.00 pm. Throughout the year we have planned some wonderful writing workshops facilitated by local authors. For further information contact Vince on 0459 574179 or Susan on 0414 958245.
KYOGLE TIDY TOWNS FARMERS MARKET
Held every Saturday morning in Stratheden Street from 8am -12. Come along grab some local fruit & veggies, experience all Kyogle has to o er. New Stall Holders welcome. Ph: Anne 66321851
LION’S CLUB OF KYOGLE
Meeting is held on the 1st & 3rd Tuesday each month at the Kyogle Lion’s shed from 6.30–7pm.Contact Neville Moon on 0448222334.
RICHMOND RIVER BEEF PRODUCER’S ASSOCIATION
Meet on the 2nd Wednesday of every month at Kyogle Showgrounds in the luncheon room at 7pm.Ph: Jan on 0427293455.
KYOGLE BAZAAR
Fourth Saturday of every month. See Kyogle Bazaar on social media for all the details or call 0459512249.
LENNOX HEAD
LENNOX HEAD EVENING VIEW CLUB
Meets on the second Tuesday of each month upstairs at the Lennox Hotel at 6.30pm for dinner at 7pm. Guests are welcome. “VIEW members support the education of disadvantaged Australian children by raising much needed funds for The Smith Family. Through fundraising activities and social events in local communities, members raise money that goes directly to The Smith Family’s learning and mentoring programs for disadvantaged. Students.” Lennox Head Evening VIEW Club currently sponsors two Learning for Life students’: Sue Brennan 0409728814.
LENNOX HEAD LIONS CLUB
New members welcome to join our close-knit club where the emphasis is on community service in a fun environment. Meetings are on the first and Third Wednesday of each month at Club Lennox starting at 6.30pm. Members do what they can, when they can to facilitate the needs of our club.
PROBUS CLUB OF LENNOX HEAD
Meets 9.30 for 10 at Club Lennox, 10 Stewart Street, on the first Thursday of each month. Visitors are welcome, also retired, or semi-retired people wishing to join our non-service club to hear interesting guest speakers and to join in trips and outings are invited along. Ph: June Zentveld on 66871004
LISMORE
Lismore Parkinsonism Support Group for all Parkinson related disorders. We meet every third Friday of the month. Next group Meeting is 19th of September Commences at 10am to 12pm at the South Lismore Bowls Club, 25 Wilson Street South Lismore. New members always welcomed. Any inquiries contact Marie 0448871290
LISMORE CWA
We will now be holding a stall at the new Lismore Markets held at the Lismore City Bowling Club on the 3rd Sunday each month. We will be there on Sunday Sept 20th from 9am to 1pm with lots of goodies, early Christmas gifts, Craft, home-made preserves & so on: put the 3rd SUNDAY of each month on your Calendar. Membership Enquiries Helen Dargin Ph. 0438 828 619 or weekly Craft Meeting info. Vicki Boyle 0437 465 462.
Lismore Garden Club meets on the 2nd Thursday of each month at the East Lismore Bowling Club, commencing at 1pm. The Club has guest speakers, visits to members’ gardens and enjoy a morning tea and friendship whilst taking in the beautiful gardens. Day trips away are also on the agenda from time to time. There is the opportunity to display something special such as a particular flower or produce each month. New members are most welcome. For further information, contact the Secretary, phone 0416 281 365.
AA MEETINGS
Lismore RED DOVE AA Meetings, Every Monday, Wednesday & Friday 12 Noon and Sundays 10.30am. Upstairs in The Uniting Church, cnr of Keen St & Woodlark St Lismore. Disability lifts available. Newcomers welcome.
LISMORE LIBRARY
Library Afterschool
Lismore Children’s Library is launching a new program of after-school activities called Library Afterschool. This term, we invite local children to get involved in PAPERCRAFT and LEGO activities. All sessions will be fun, free, low-key and inclusive, facilitated by your friendly Lismore Children’s
Library staff. PAPERCRAFT 3.30pm-5pm at Lismore Children’s Library, first and third Tuesday of the month. Papercraft will include learning to draw, making origami and scissor-and-glue crafts. LEGO 3.30pm-5pm at Lismore Children’s Library, second and fourth Friday of the month Explore our excellent LEGO collection. Alternating themed and free-play sessions. The Northern Rivers Lodge No. 77 meets on the 2nd Wednesday of each month (except in January) at the Lismore Masonic Centre, 111 Magellan Street Lismore. We welcome all Masons to an enjoyable and entertaining evening. Inquiries 0412665674
LISMORE CRAFTS & QUILTERS
You are invited to join, LISMORE CRAFTS & QUILTERS. We meet on Mondays at the Lismore Uniting Church, Red Dove, Hall 9.30am - 12.30pm. We do Patchwork, Quilting & all Crafts. We also have night group, who meet at McLean Ridges Hall, Monday evenings, 5.30pm - 9pm. Cost is $30 for the year & $5 each Monday. Looking forward to seeing you. Enquiries to Margaret Boxsell 0427141425
LISMORE LIONS CLUB
Please save your used stamps to raise funds for The Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation. Stamps are collected & forwarded on to be sorted & sold at Auction, to raise money for Children’s Mobility contact Margaret Boxsell on 0427141425
Lismore City Bowling
Lismore City Bowling and Recreation Club
Community BINGO every Monday morning 10 am to 12 noon. Morning tea and Progressive Jackpot. All welcome. Phone 66 21 5991.
LISMORE CITY CONCERT BAND
Rehearsals are held during school terms on Mondays, 6.15-7.45pm at Southern Cross University. If you can play a concert band instrument: brass, woodwind, or percussion, please come and join us! All ages welcome. We have some instruments available for loan. Ph: 0432575911
LISMORE MEN & COMMUNITY SHED
President: Mr Bob Greig 0404860504 publicity officer Don Abrahams 0437576837
Opening Hours: Tuesday & Thursday 9.00am –3.00pm We are a community based non-profit organisation. Everybody is welcome: men, women & people with a disability of all ages. We encourage social inclusion. Our aim is to promote the mental, physical & emotional wellbeing of people in our community. Shed Activities Members work on their own projects, Mentoring is available, General woodworking, Welding & light engineering, Repair & restoration of items for the public Constructing projects, of items for the public Constructing projects for preschools, hospitals & other organisations Assembling flatpack, Minor maintenance work for the elderly & disabled, working with the disabled, talking with other members or simply having company. Memberships: $40-year Attendance Fee: $3 tea/ coffee 15 Industry Drive East Lismore
LISMORE ORCHID SOCIETY INC
City of Lismore Orchid Society Inc. Meetings are now at the Lismore Show Ground, In Norms Kitchen under the Members Grandstand. Alexandra Parade, North Lismore. NSW 2480 Meeting Date; the first Saturday of the month Meeting Time: 9:30am display plants set up, 10:00am meeting starts with a cuppa after. Contact President Mr. Steven Muldoon 0427789773 Orchid meeting involves the sharing of information, knowledge and friendship. All welcome. Lismore City Bowling and Recreation Club Community BINGO every Monday Morning 10am to 12 noon. Morning tea and Progressive Jackpot. All welcome. Ph 6621 5991
LISMORE SENIOR CITIZENS
Meet at the Goonellabah Community Centre every second Thursday starting at 9am where we have morning tea followed by games bingo how etc we play cards Monday and Friday and play bowls Tuesdays and craft every second Tuesday afternoons come and join our friendly group you will be very welcome.
LISMORE SPINNERS & WEAVERS
Please join us…... Weaving, Spinning, Felting, Dyeing, Knitting, Crochet, Workshops, Chat…. Sharing Craft & Ideas.From 10am, on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Fridays of each month. (Formal business meeting is 10.30-11.30 every 1st Friday) McLeans Ridges Hall Cnr Cowlong and McLeans Ridges Rds. (off Bruxner Hwy) Morning Tea provided. Bring your lunch (and a mug) Contac: Kim: 0423935060, Linda: 0419489987
LISMORE TARGET RIFLE CLUB for .22 calibre rifles, meets Wed nights from 6.00pm (setup time) & the 1st & 3rd Sat of each month from 12.30pm (setup time). Air rifle shooting for .22 & 177 air rifles will also be available at the Saturday shoots. For more information, please phone Derek on 66282082 (ah).
CO-DEPENDANTS ANONYMOUS (CoDA)
Co-Dependants Anonymous is a Twelve Step Fellowship of people whose common purpose is to develop healthy relationships. The only requirement for membership is a desire for healthy relationships. The CoDA meeting in the Lismore area meets on Mondays from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Riverland’s Drug and Alcohol Centre. 75 Hunter Street, Lismore. For further information call 0456178826 or 0408336143
EAST LISMORE BOWLING CLUB
Community Bingo Tuesday night 7.30pm start. 20 games of bingo + progressive jackpot Neilson Street East Lismore. Everyone Welcome
EAST LISMORE SOCIAL TENNI S
Social Tennis is played at East Lismore Tennis Club, Cnr Neilson St & Oakley Avenue every Tuesday from 8am. We invite social players of all abilities to join us, we are a mixed group who enjoy a morning’s tennis without the commitment of competition. Ph: Fay Ross 0412910487. Everyone welcome.
MAINLY MUSIC
Fun, interactive, music sessions for young children [birth to school age] and their parents/caregivers in a relaxed setting on Tuesdays starting at 9:30am during School Terms. Children will be introduced to music, creativity and more. They will develop gross motor skills, as well as socialise with others in a loving, shared family environment. Morning tea with snacks included. Mainly Music at Lismore Anglican Parish Centre, 10 Zadoc Street, LISMORE. T: 0266213200
PROBUS CLUB OF LISMORE HEIGHTS
Our mixed group meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month at the Lismore Heights Bowling Club in High St. Our brief meeting is followed by morning tea and a guest speaker. Senior’s lunch for $15 at noon is optional. Guests and visitors are welcome. Ring/ text Roslyn on 0437606674 for details of our other monthly social gatherings and outings.
ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE NETWORKING
Want to be part of an innovative, interesting, and inclusive networking group who meet fortnightly to share ideas, meet other professionals and work together to make a difference in your community?
Then Rotary Club of Lismore Networking could be the answer for you! Meets on the 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month at 5.30pm at The Civic Hotel (210 Molesworth Street Lismore). Ph: Rita on 0413300578 or Gae 0412742095.
ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE WEST INC
East Lismore Bowling Club each Thursday at 6pm. New members would be made most welcome. Further information available on 0428151934.
ROTARY CLUB OF SUMMERLAND SUNRISE
Interested in contributing to community? Local and international?
The Rotary Club of Summerland Sunrise meets every Friday at 7.05am for Breakfast at Red Dove Café 80 Keen st Lismore. Join us please. Ph: 0435990919
SUMMERLAND AMATEUR RADIO CLUB
Meetings of the club are normally held on the second Sunday of each month at the clubrooms: 412 Richmond Hill Road, Richmond Hill at 1pm. Visitors are welcome. The clubrooms are usually open on Sunday afternoons from about 1pm onwards. We are primarily amateur radio enthusiasts and welcome persons interested in radio, electronics, astronomy, and similar subjects.
SUMMERLAND BONSAI SOCIETY INC.
Come and learn an addictive hobby with us. We provide personal support from experienced teachers as well as demonstrations and Bonsai information.
Club days are held on the second Saturday of every month at 1pm in the Red Dove at Lismore Be inspired about the art of creating little trees. Ph: 0438103601
ZEN and INSIGHT MEDITATION - Lismore Heights INSIGHT (VIPASSANA) MEDITATION and practice:This mindfulness-based meditation group sits on Wednesdays from 7:00-8:30pm. The evening includes meditation instructions, sitting and walking meditation, Dharma talks and discussion. For
further details, please contact Rosie - 0402 682 925. Beginners and experienced meditations are warmly welcomed.
ZEN MEDITATION and practice The Zen meditation group sits on Mondays from 6:30pm-8:15pm. If you wish to attend
MACLEAN
MACLEAN VIEW CLUB
Monthly meetings the 3rd Thursdays of each month at 11am. Contact Ruth Toyer on 0409844212 by Mondays, no later than 7pm. Numbers are required for catering purposes.
MCLEANS RIDGES
MCLEANS RIDGES CRAFT GROUP meet at the McLeans Ridges Hall, Cowlong Road, McLeans Ridges on the 2nd Saturday of each month from 9.30am to 3.30pm. Scrapbooking, card making, paper craft, knitting whatever takes your fancy. Come along for an enjoyable day. Bring your own morning tea and lunch. Coffee, tea, milk provided. A small fee to cover hall hire. Ph 0401 047 513.
MURWILLUMBAH
COMMUNITY PRINTMAKERS MURWILLUMBAH
Fine art printmakers. Meet at studio space 224 Stokers Rd, Stokers Siding. Prints, gallery, workshops and more! Ph: Peter 0498399640 or Sue 0408493253.
MURWILLUMBAH COMMUNITY GARDEN
Members and visitors are invited to join the group for activities and gardening tips most Sundays. Time 3-5pm, street parking, BYO, covered footwear, comfy clothing, hat, and water. Children ok with strict supervision. Covid plan operating. Ph: Bob Johnson (02)66225792.
POTTSVILLE
Alcoholics Anonymous: Is drinking costing you more than money? AA works and is very active in Pottsville. We meet every Thursday 7pm at St Marks 15A Coronation Ave Pottsville and local contact 1800 423 431 or 04019 45671
POTTSVILLE FUN CROQUET CLUB
Meets at Black Rocks Sports Fields on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8.30am. New members are welcome to come and join us for a hit and a bit of fun. For any further enquires please call Jean on 0431606375.
TWEED HEADS
Poets and writers on the Tweed meet every Tuesday at the South Tweed Sports Club 1.30-3.30pm. Beginners welcome. Phone 0755248035.
TWEED HEADS PROBUS CLUB
Probus Club, Coolangatta/Tweed Heads. Be at Club Tweed at 10-00am on the first Wednesday of the Month. Visitors and new members are very welcome.
TWEED PATCHWORK GROUP
Meet the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month at South Tweed Community Centre from 9-1pm at 18 Heffron Street Tweed Heads south all beginners welcome phone Moira on 0418686643. A friendly group of people with common interest in seeing, quilting and related craft.
TWIN TOWNS DAY VIEW CLUB VIEW as in Voice, Interests, Education of Women (Not many people are aware of what ‘VIEW’ club stands for!) AND NOT ONLY IN NAME: We are a group of ladies who care what will become of our youth! Our heritage – Their heritage – It is sad but true that many of our young people have no direction in their lives. Every morning, we wake to the news that violence has occurred overnight in what was once considered a safe neighbourhood. How do these offending children/ youth feel the next morning knowing they have caused so much heartache - is this why we also hear of youth harming themselves so they can spread the pain? So, this is where VIEW Clubs and other similar clubs are starting from the bottom of the ladder by providing much needed funds to educate our youngsters so they will WANT to become the very best person they can not only in education but in their community and being proud of themselves and giving their parents hope for their child’s future. We at TWIN TOWNS DAY VIEW CLUB PROVIDE THE NECESSARY FUNDS to educate just 7 of these children. We know not where they come from, but someone in their community has contacted THE SMITH FAMILY and they in turn contact VIEW CLUBS OF AUSTRALIA who anonymously contact a
VIEW Club who in turn take over the responsibility for these worthy children’s fees and so year after year their tertiary fees are paid. These fees are raised by VIEW Club members who attend meetings, listen to interesting guest speakers, and regularly have days out at each other’s homes – so FUN and a tremendous satisfaction of knowing we are helping our future generation. More information can be gleaned by contacting our President Kathie on 0407709629.
WOLLONGBAR
Wollongbar Probus Club meets on the third Thursday of the month at the Alstonville Plateau Bowls and Sports Club, 10 - 14 Deegan Drive Alstonville, at 10am. Our next meeting is on Thursday 18th September when we celebrate our 29th Birthday. There will be Birthday Cake for Morning Tea and Lunch at the Bowls Club. Visitors are always welcome to attend. For information phone Keith on 66280393.
YAMBA
YAMBA LIONS CLUB
Yamba Lions Club’s meetings are held 2nd & 4th Thursdays of month at Yamba Bowling Club, commencing at 7pm for 7.30pm. For further information, please contact the Secretary Peter 0417546097. Social outings also held at various time and visitors and new members’ welcome.
ALL NORTHERN RIVERS
AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS
Al-Anon offers help and hope for family and friends of alcoholics. If someone in your family has a drinking problem, you can see what it’s doing to them. But can you see what it’s doing to YOU? For information and help call 1300 ALANON (1300 252 666). Al-Anon Family Groups meet regularly across Australia and online, MONDAY 11:00am - 12.30 pm ILUKA - CWA Hall (behind the Iluka Museum), 2 Charles St TUESDAY 12.00 - 1.30 pm GRAFTON - Hall 2, Salvation Army, 91-93 Oliver St.1:00 - 2.30 pm LISMORE “The Studio”, adjacent to 14 Pleasant St, Goonellabah & ZOOM ID 252 666 0000 (no password) (enter at rear of car park, cnr Pleasant & Fischer Sts) WEDNESDAY 6.30 - 8:00 pm BALLINA – Anglican Church, 24 Burnet St & ZOOM ID 252 666 0000 (no password) THURSDAY 5:00 - 6:00 pm (with Alateen) TWEED HEADS Anglican Church, 13 Powell St or by phone: 4022 9113, code 5771881# FRIDAY The Bangalow meeting meets in person on the FIRST and THIRD FRIDAY of the month at 1.00 - 2.30 pm at 17 Station St, Bangalow, (Bangalow Uniting Church, parking next to the Church. SUNDAY 4:00 pm CHINDERAH Seventh Day Adventist Church, 83 Phillip St
NORTHERN RIVES MUSTANGS
If you own a Ford Mustang and would like to do monthly drives with other members for more information, contact John 0404 884 192
NRCF WOMEN’S GIVING CIRCLE
The Northern Rivers Community Foundation (NRFC) is inviting Northern Rivers women to play an active role in empowering vulnerable women and girls in our region. The newly formed NRFC’s Women’s Giving Circle brings Northern Rivers women together to achieve equality and human rights for women and girls in our region and enable them to realise their full potential. Ph: 0499862886
The NORTHERN RIVERS HASH HOUSE HARRIERS is a non-profit community group that is part of a worldwide organisation. The Hash House Harriers meet every Monday at 6pm for a run/walk from various locations around Lismore, Alstonville, and Ballina. The run/walk lasts for approximately an hour, followed by friendship, banter and grub. We are very friendly and welcome new members.
NORTHERN RIVERS NAVAL & MARINERS
ASSOCIATION
This association was formed to attract veterans for companionship, wellbeing and to supply advocacy to veterans. We hold an informal gathering every Friday, 2.30pm at Ballina Angling Club (families are welcome). Ph: Allan Watt: 0402 749 582
ALL AREAS
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS If you’re looking for help to stop drinking, you can reach out to Alcoholics Anonymous 24 hours a day. Our phone line is always answered by someone who’s been where you are – an alcoholic in recovery. We understand the challengers, and we know we’re the right people to help you. You can call AA anytime on 1300 22 22 22.
WEATHER
FORECAST
Northern Rivers District:
Sunny. Light winds becoming northwesterly 15 to 20 km/h during the morning then becoming light during the afternoon. Thursday. Partly cloudy. Slight chance of a shower. Light winds becoming south to southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h during the morning then tending east to southeasterly during the day.
Northern Tablelands District:
Partly cloudy. Slight chance of a shower, most likely in the morning and afternoon. The chance of a storm in the south. Winds north to northwesterly 20 to 30 km/h tending west to northwesterly 25 to 35 km/h during the morning then becoming light during the evening. Thursday. Mostly sunny. Slight chance of a shower on and east of the ranges. Light winds becoming northwest to northeasterly 15 to 20 km/h during the day then becoming light during the afternoon. New South Wales: A few showers possible across the central and northern districts.
The chance of a storms about the northern coast, ranges and adjacent western slopes. Isolated showers possible on the far southern ranges and slopes, falling as snow above 1300 metres. Dry and mostly sunny elsewhere. Patchy morning frost and fog on the southern ranges and slopes. Daytime temperatures above average in the northeast, grading to below average in the west. West to northwesterly winds turning southwest to southeasterly in the far west and becoming northeast to southeasterly along the coast.
Thursday. Dry and mostly sunny apart from the chance of isolated showers along the northern half of the coast or the far southwest. Morning frost patches across the southern and central ranges, slopes and adjacent plains. Daytime temperatures near average. Southeast to southwesterly winds becoming northeast to northwesterly during the day. Fresh northeasterly winds may develop along central and southern parts of the coast in the afternoon. Byron Coast: Winds: Northerly 15 to 25 knots tending southeast to southwesterly
10 to 15 knots during the evening. Seas: 1.5 to 2.5 metres, decreasing to 1 to 1.5 metres during the afternoon or evening. Swell: Northeast to southeasterly below 1 metre inshore, increasing to around 1 metre offshore south of Coffs Harbour during the afternoon or evening. Weather: Mostly sunny day. The chance of a storm in the afternoon and evening.
Coffs Coast:
Winds: Northerly 15 to 25 knots tending southeast to southwesterly 10 to 15 knots during the evening. Seas: 1.5 to 2.5 metres, decreasing to 1 to 1.5 metres during the afternoon or evening. Swell: Northeast to southeasterly below 1 metre inshore, increasing to around 1 metre offshore south of Coffs Harbour during the afternoon or evening. Weather: Mostly sunny day. The chance of a storm in the afternoon and evening.
Gold Coast Waters: Winds: Northeasterly 10 to 15 knots turning northerly during the morning. Seas: Below 1 metre. Swell: Northeasterly below 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore. Weather: Mostly sunny.
BackTrack Youth Swap Bush for Beach at Kingsclif
Jef Gibbs
KINGSCLIFF, NSW
– Eight young people from BackTrack Youth Works
left the bush behind for a day at the beach, taking part in Surfng Australia’s Surf For Life Program at Kingsclif Beach. The initiative uses surfng as a tool to build confdence, resilience, water safety and community connection for young Australians facing tough challenges.
The group spent the day learning to surf at the beach before heading to Surfng Australia’s Olympic Training Centre for surf mobility, conditioning, skate training and highperformance activities.
The program, designed for 11–18 year olds, gives young people dealing with disengagement, homelessness, trauma or justice involvement the chance to step outside their
comfort zone and develop new skills in a safe, supportive environment.
BackTrack CEO Marcus Watson said the program was made possible through long-term support:
“BackTrack is so grateful for the backing
from the Kennards Hire Foundation. Their funding, equipment and trust mean everything. Experiences like this surfng weekend open doors for kids from regional areas who would never normally have such opportunities.”
The Surf for Life experience was supported by Kennards Hire, the Kennards Hire Foundation and Surfng Australia. Kennards Hire’s partnership with BackTrack includes both fnancial help and practical resources
such as trailers, welders and chainsaws, which are used to upskill young people through BackTrack Youth Works’ social enterprise.
The program’s impact is refected in stories like that of Jimmy, 15, who joined
BackTrack after becoming disengaged from school. With mentoring and handson training, he developed welding skills, gained fulltime employment in 2024, and is now completing a TAFE Engineering and Fabrication course with plans for an apprenticeship. Most importantly, he has found confdence, purpose and mateship.
Lisa Cotton, Chair of the Kennards Hire Foundation, said:
“This opportunity is about far more than surfng—it’s about self-belief, safety and connection. BackTrack’s work is transformational, and we’re proud to walk alongside them.”
Blake Whittaker from Surfng Australia added that the program was the frst of its kind:
“With this support, we can give young people the joy of surfng while building skills and lasting memories.”
Left - Nat Sipple. Right- Darryl Vandepolder. BackTrack Youth at Surfng Australia High Performance Centre.
Snappers make it two on the trot
Extra time needed in classic grand fnal
By Gary Nichols
While they didn’t claim the ultimate spoils, the Grafton Redmen Women’s side were gallant in defeat going down to Cofs Harbour Snappers 22-12 in the Mid North Coast Rugby grand fnal.
The decider proved to be a war of attrition between two evenly matched sides, in a game that had everything.
Locked at 12-all after 50-minutes of a bruising and tense battle, extra time was needed to determine the winner.
In her frst-grade debut for Snappers, winger Poppi Flanders proved the diference on the day scoring two blistering long-rang tries.
way to the tryline.
Earlier, Grafton peppered
Flanders’ elusive running and speed set the home crowd alight each time she touched the ball Flanders, who also plays for the Hunter Wildfres, qualifed for the grand fnal which was a masterstroke by the Snappers Club.
the home side’s line for most of the frst half but came up empty. Snappers opened the scoring on the stroke of half-time to head to the sheds with a narrow 5-0 lead.
Grafton came out fring after the break when fveeighth and captain Tamar McHugh put Yuri Fuller into space to level up proceedings.
Fuller left four defenders grasping at thin air on her
Snappers were swift to respond when Flanders scored a sensational individual try from her own side of halfway.
Leading 12-5 with fveminutes left on the clock, a rampaging run from Natalie Blackadder gave her side good feld position and Grafton were quick
to cash in when McHugh planted the ball next to the uprights.
McHugh converted her own try to send the game into extra time.
A string of penalties saw Snappers score the frst of their extra-time tries, and when Flanders picked up her double the game was all over.
Australian Boardriders Battle Returns for 13th Edition
Jef Gibbs
CASUARINA, NSW – Australia’s biggest grassroots surfng series, the Australian Boardriders Battle (ABB), is set to make waves once again as it enters its 13th edition.
Celebrated as the beating heart of Australian surfng, the ABB unites boardriders clubs nationwide in a contest that blends community pride with elite-level performance.
The 2025/26 ABB Regional Qualifer Series kicks of at Trigg Point, WA, this September, before touring through NSW, Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia and Queensland. Each stop—from iconic point breaks to raw, open beachies— will decide which clubs secure their place at the ABB Grand Final , presented by NRMA Insurance, returning to the Gold Coast in March 2026
In a milestone moment, Cronulla Beach will make its debut on the ABB schedule, hosting the NSW Sydney South qualifer for the frst time.
Surfng Australia CEO Chris Mater said the ABB continues to grow in stature:
“The ABB is where grassroots passion meets world-class competition. To open the series at Trigg Point, welcome Cronulla for the frst time, and then crown champions at Burleigh in peak
Coraki Veterans Golf Results –Thursday 11 September 2025
What a day at Coraki – the wind was as strong as many could remember, making for a challenging round of golf. Despite the tough conditions, the competition was as lively as ever.
Results:
swell season—it’s a showcase of everything that makes Australian surfng special.”
Rivalries and Legends Collide
The ABB’s unique tag-team relay format features fve club surfers— Open Men, Open Women, Junior,
SPORTS RESULTS
l Winner: J Ellis
l 2nd Place: S Toms
l 3rd Place: W Swindle
l Free Game: G Tait
Chicken/Ball
Winners:
A Parr, J Kelly, T Doyle, B Collyer, W Lunnon, S Reddell, G Gibson, B McDonald, G Donaldson, B Micheal, K Lloyd, B Mackay.
Nearest the Pins:
l 3rd/12th – J Larkin
l 6th/15th – T Perkins
Next up is the second round of the Veterans Championships this Thursday, with an 8.30am shotgun start
As always – until then, good golfng!
Masters, and a Power Surfer—battling the clock in heats where strategy, ftness and surf skill combine. This fast-paced structure has drawn past champions like Layne Beachley, Joel Parkinson and Taj Burrow , Olympians including Owen Wright and Ruby Trew, and a rising crop of juniors and professionals.
At last year’s Grand Final, North Shore Boardriders (NSW) triumphed at Burleigh Heads, and they’ll return in 2026 to defend their crown against powerhouse clubs from across Australia.
2025/26 ABB Regional Qualifer Schedule
l NSW North – Cofs Harbour – Sept 20, 2025
l VIC – Phillip Island –Oct 5, 2025
l QLD – Sunshine Coast – Oct 11, 2025
l SA – Fleurieu Peninsula – Oct 18, 2025
l TAS – Scamander – Oct 25, 2025
l NSW South – Cronulla – Nov 1, 2025
l NSW Central – North Narrabeen – Nov 8, 2025
Full details: australianboardridersbattle.com
— Max
Sophie McCulloch at the 2025 Australian Boardriders Battle Grand Final at Burleigh Heads. Photo: Surfng Australia / Andy Morris
The Grafton Redmen women’s team and Cofs Snappers played out an epic grand fnal earlier this month, which the Cofs team won, 22-12 in extra time. Photo: Gary Nichols.
A Grafton player fends of the Cofs Snappers fullback during a powerful run in the women’s rugby grand fnal.
Photo: Gary Nichols.
AS CLEAR AS MUD
REBELS GO DOWN SWINGING
Photo: Gary Nicholls.
By Gary Nichols
Grafton player fends o the
powerful run in the women s rugby grand nal.
hoto Gary Nichols.