Deputy Mayor Greg Clancy led a councillor revolt against a staf recommendation to approve a development on food prone land in Golding St, West Yamba at the latest Clarence Valley Council meeting.
Council rejects Yamba development over flood and environmental risks
By Tim Howard
Clarence Valley councillors have once again rejected a proposed housing development in the contentious West Yamba Urban Release Area, siding with community concerns about fooding and environmental harm over the recommendations of council staf.
At last week’s council meeting, councillors voted 6–3 to refuse a development application (DA 2023/0776) for a two-lot subdivision and construction of 16 multidwelling units at 30 Golding Street, Yamba. The decision came after a lengthy and often heated debate, with councillors split between environmental, safety and community arguments on one side, and housing demand and planning law on the other.
The motion to refuse, moved by Cr Greg Clancy and seconded by Cr Cristie Yager, cited multiple grounds under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, including food risks, the presence of endangered ecological communities, and inadequate consideration of threatened species.
Cr Clancy argued that the proposal would destroy critical habitat and undermine already fragile ecosystems.
“The site contains two endangered ecological communities—paperbark swamp forest and swamp oak foodplain forest,” he said.
“These communities are listed at both the state and federal level. If we keep approving developments like this, they will become extinct.”
Cr Yager reinforced concerns about fooding and community safety, warning that the design efectively admitted the site was unft for residential use.
“The applicant’s own design shows the garages would be fooded in major events,” she said.
“That means paints, fuels and chemicals from everyday households will mix with foodwaters and
contaminate wetlands. This is not a hypothetical risk—it is a certainty.”
Cr Lynne Cairns added that lessons from the 2022 foods could not be ignored.
“This site went under by nearly a metre,” she said. “Any flling of the foodplain will displace water elsewhere, putting lives and neighbouring properties at risk. The precautionary principle must apply.”
Not all councillors agreed. Cr Alison Bryant praised the developer for adopting “old-style” foodresilient housing designs, with living areas raised above potential water levels.
“If we stop development in Yamba, prices will only go up,” Cr Bryant said.
“This is about supply and demand. Our community needs more housing, and this proposal delivers that.”
Cr Karen Toms also spoke against refusal, arguing the land was zoned residential and council staf had assessed the proposal in line with the law.
“It meets the legislation,” she said. “Our planners don’t have the option of an opinion—they must follow the rules. The developer has a legal right to build here.”
Cr Peter Johnstone, who initially leaned toward approval, said a visit to the site shifted his view.
“From the street, it looked like a slashed paddock. But on the ground it was clear this
was a wildlife corridor—a crossroads for birds and other animals,” he said.
“Morally and ethically, I cannot vote for this development.”
The motion to refuse was supported by Crs Clancy, Yager, Cairns, Johnstone, Causley and Mayor Ray Smith. Crs Novak, Bryant and Toms opposed. It is the latest in a string of council rejections of development applications in West Yamba, where long-standing concerns about food safety, insurance, evacuation routes and environmental damage continue to clash with housing demand and residential zoning. The developer may now choose to appeal the decision to the Land and Environment Court.
Tweed Shire Council launches October Business Month
Robert Heyward
Amid rising costs, operational pressures and the challenges of extreme weather, Tweed Shire Council is stepping up to back its business community with a month-long program of workshops and networking events.
Delivered under the Succeed in the Tweed initiative, October Business Month is part of the Council’s Community Strategic Plan 2022–2032, aimed at creating long-term sustainable growth and supporting local enterprise.
A packed program
builds on the NSW Government’s Small Business Month, with eight capacity-building workshops and three networking events scheduled across the month. Local Chambers of Commerce and the Tweed Tourism Company will also host complementary sessions. Workshops will tackle a range of topical issues for business owners, including:
l Proftability and data analysis for better decision-making
l Inclusive recruitment and workforce strategies
l Artifcial intelligence in small business
l Agritourism and
agribusiness opportunities
l Business safety and reporting in partnership with Tweed Byron Police
New events for 2025
This year introduces two exciting additions to the networking calendar:
l Young People in Business – highlighting the innovation and energy of emerging entrepreneurs.
l Celebrating Women in Business – recognising achievements and creating space for collaboration and mentorship.
The month will conclude on Thursday,
30 October with the return of the signature Tweed Shire
Networking event at the Ivory Tavern, Tweed Heads, bringing businesses from across the shire together to celebrate.
Council backing local resilience
Mayor Chris Cherry said October Business Month is a vital way to support and showcase local enterprise.
“October Business Month is a valuable opportunity to highlight the resilience, creativity and determination of local businesses,” Cr Cherry said.
“Through the Succeed
in Tweed initiative, this year’s program has been carefully designed to connect people, grow skills and inspire collaboration — strengthening the Tweed’s economy today while laying the foundations for sustainable growth into the future.”
Get involved
Businesses across the Tweed are encouraged to secure tickets early, with places limited. For program updates, tickets and industry news, visit the October Business Month website , follow Succeed in the Tweed on Facebook, and subscribe to the e-newsletter.
Cr Cristie Yager gave full support to Cr Clancy’s motion to refuse a development in Golding St, West Yamba.
Deputy Mayor Greg Clancy led a councillor revolt against a staf recommendation to approve a development on food prone land in Golding St, West Yamba at the latest Clarence Valley Council meeting.
Dry Dock Road Boat Ramp Upgrade Opens Access for All
Jef Gibbs
Tweed Shire Council has ofcially launched the upgraded Dry Dock Road boat ramp at Tweed Heads South, delivering improved facilities designed to accommodate a wide range of watercraft and enhance accessibility for all users.
A highlight of the $860,000 project is a new handlaunching ramp, planned specifcally to meet the needs of Sailability Tweed — the volunteer organisation that provides sailing opportunities each week for people of all abilities.
Council’s Coast and Waterways Team Leader, Tom Alletson, said the works had transformed one of the region’s busiest ramps.
“Dry Dock is a very busy boat ramp so it was crucial to us to make it the best facility we could – for both residents and visitors,” he said.
“Council seeks to increase the accessibility of the Tweed’s amazing waterways, so it was particularly important that we support an organisation like Sailability. We’re grateful that
paddle boards safer access away from power boats.”
The improvements were shaped by community consultation and included:
l Installation of a new foating pontoon
l Removal of the old timber jetty
l A dedicated hand-launch facility for paddle craft and small vessels
l A new fsh cleaning table
l General boat ramp maintenance
the federal government funding allowed us to do that.”
John Stead, President of Sailability Tweed, said the upgrades were making a tangible diference.
“Having a pontoon and boat ramp in front of our operating area makes it easier for us to safely handle our participants into the sailing boats,” Mr Stead said.
“Sailing has huge benefts for participants — many carers comment on how their clients are very diferent after a day on the water. The new pontoon and boat ramp is a win-win for the community, giving people with small craft, canoes and
l Foreshore erosion protection
l Partial carpark resurfacing and line marking
l Footpath and landscaping upgrades
The project was funded through an $860,000 grant from the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program, which supports regional communities by investing in new or upgraded social infrastructure.
Tweed Shire Mayor Chris Cherry joined John Stead to cut the ribbon on the new facility, marking a milestone that enhances both recreation and inclusion on the Tweed River.
Funding Open to Honour Service of NSW Veterans
Robert Heyward
Applications are now open for the 2025 Veteran Community Grants Program, with the NSW Government making $100,000 available to support projects that recognise the service and sacrifce of veterans.
Formerly known as the Anzac Community Grants Program , the initiative has been refreshed to place greater emphasis on projects that honour veterans, acknowledge signifcant military anniversaries, and support the wellbeing of those who have served.
Funding Details
Grants of up to $3,000 are available to individuals and community organisations across four key categories:
l Historical research and education – projects that explore and document local military history.
l Preservation or display of war memorabilia – ensuring artefacts and stories are shared with future generations.
l Public commemorative events –activities that bring communities together to honour veterans on important anniversaries.
l Projects supporting the veteran community – initiatives that strengthen wellbeing, inclusion and connection.
Last year, more than 90 projects received funding through the program, ranging from school history projects to local memorial restorations.
Who Can Apply
The program is open to individuals and non-for-proft organisations across NSW, including:
l Local government authorities
l Ex-service organisations
l Educational institutions
l Community groups
Veterans Minister David Harris encouraged communities to apply:
“These grants recognise the enormous contribution of our veterans and support local projects that keep their stories alive. Whether it’s restoring a memorial, holding a commemorative event or supporting veterans directly, this program is about honouring their service in meaningful ways.”
How to Apply
Applications close at 5pm, Tuesday 11 November 2025. Full details, including eligibility and guidelines, are available at www. veterans.nsw.gov.au/VCGP
Tweed Shire Mayor Chris Cherry and John Stead, President of Sailability Tweed cut the ribbon on the new boat ramp at Dry Dock Road in Tweed Heads.
A glimpse of the future: Grafton Hospital redevelopment unveiled
By Tim Howard
Clarence Valley residents are being given their frst real look at the longawaited $263.8 million Grafton Base Hospital redevelopment — and invited to help shape its fnal design.
A fy-through animation, released by the NSW Government, shows what the three-storey acute services building will look like when completed.
It’s a far cry from the 1960s-era wards many locals know all too well.
The redevelopment promises a bigger, modernised emergency department, a new MRI
suite, and an expanded operating theatre complex with two extra theatres to cut waiting times.
There’s also room set aside for maternity services to move in the future and space for further expansion down the track.
For patients and families, the design aims to be more welcoming and accessible.
A new “hospital street” will run of the existing main entrance, connecting the old and new buildings. Visitors will be able to enter from Arthur Street with a drop-of zone, while ambulances will get a direct route into the emergency department
from Queen Street.
Parking — often a sore point at Grafton — is also part of the plan.
Health Minister Ryan Park said the redevelopment was about “expanding and improving care for the community,” while North Coast Minister Janelle Safn stressed the importance of local voices in the process.
“By working together we are enabling health staf to deliver excellent patient care in environments that support patients and their families,” Ms Safn said. The project has been years in the making, and locals have not been shy about pointing out the
hospital’s shortcomings — from cramped wards to ageing facilities and long waits for specialist services.
The new design, shaped through consultation with staf and community groups, is pitched as a turning point.
Community members can weigh in at two information sessions at Grafton Shoppingworld:
Monday, September 29, 3–5pm
Tuesday, September 30, 9–11am
Planning documents will also go on public exhibition in coming weeks, and feedback can be lodged online.
Proposed Acute Services Building Grafton Base
Construction timelines will be confrmed once approvals are fnalised and a builder is appointed.
Meanwhile, work is already underway nearby, with part of the old Grafton Jail being refurbished into modern administration and training facilities for hospital staf — a symbolic nod to the Valley’s past, repurposed to serve its future.
Labor MLC Emily Suvaal, the government’s spokesperson for Clarence, said the project
was about more than bricks and mortar.
“It will make a real diference to the Clarence Valley community,” she said.
“This redevelopment will ensure the facility remains ft for purpose for many years to come — and it will be a place our hardworking staf are proud to work in.”
The fy-through animation and details on how to provide feedback are available at: nsw.gov. au/grafton-base-hospitalredevelopment.
Twenty-four bidders vie for flood buyback houses at Lismore auction
Jef Gibbs
The latest auction of foodafected homes in Lismore has drawn strong interest, with 24 bidders competing for 10 properties under the NSW Government’s Resilient Homes Program. Sale prices ranged from as little as $6,000 to $60,000, making the auction one of the most afordable housing opportunities in the country.
Held at the Lismore Heights Sports Club on Wednesday 17 September, the auction was conducted by Wal Murray & Co and attracted more than 50 onlookers. Buyers included young families
eager for a fresh start, local residents seeking relocation options, and investors and builders from outside the region.
Among the successful purchasers were Northern Rivers honey producers Jackie and Luke Edwards, who were so encouraged by the program that they bought two homes for their farm.
Sales highlights Notable results included:
= 31 Orion Street, Lismore – $60,000
= 17 Frank Street, South Lismore – $50,000
= 161 Magellan Street, Lismore – $48,000
= 29 Cathcart Street, Girards Hill – $46,000
= 49 Union Street, South Lismore – $46,000
= 8 Cathcart Street, Lismore – $44,000
= 108 Laurel Avenue, Lismore – $36,000
= 316 Molesworth
Street, Lismore – $14,000
= 106 Laurel Avenue, Lismore – $11,000
= 12 Hallam Street, North Lismore – $6,000
The properties, sourced from central Lismore, South Lismore, North Lismore and Girards Hill, were purchased by the NSW Reconstruction Authority for relocation through the buyback stream of the $880 million Resilient Homes Program, jointly
funded by the NSW and Commonwealth Governments.
Strong demand continues
Wal Murray & Co salesperson Ben Conte said the 24 registered bidders demonstrated that demand for food buyback homes remains strong.
“There is consistent interest in these auctions because they provide such a rare and afordable entry point into the housing market,” Mr Conte said.
Minister for Recovery and the North Coast, Janelle Safn, welcomed the outcome, describing it as a positive step in building a more resilient
region.
“It’s great to see the continued interest in giving these foodimpacted homes in the Northern Rivers a new lease of life,” she said.
“There is no other place in Australia where you can get this kind of housing opportunity. It’s a chance to be part of preserving the unique character of this great region while helping create a safer and more resilient community.”
Program progress
To date, 83 properties have been ofered for sale in the Northern Rivers under the scheme, attracting national
attention. More than 1,300 food-afected homeowners have engaged with the buyback program, with over 926 ofers made.
With no reserve price, bidding can start and end at just $1, providing accessibility unmatched elsewhere in Australia. All proceeds are reinvested into the Resilient Homes Program to support additional buybacks. Further auctions are planned, with PRD Northern Rivers set to sell more homes on 7 October
For more details, visit nsw.gov.au/resilienthomes-program
Hospital Redevelopment
Councillor to fght Act of Disorder ruling
By Tim Howard
A Clarence Valley councillor found to have committed an Act of Disorder during debate at the August council meeting says she will fght the ruling, arguing she was denied natural justice and procedural fairness.
Cr Lynne Cairns raised the issue at last Thursday’s September meeting, where she attempted to amend the minutes of the August meeting to remove references to the Act of Disorder.
Her amendment asked that the minutes be marked to show the record was not part of the proceedings and had not been confrmed by council. The disputed uncertainty.”
Clarence Valley Mayor Ray Smith says he had made a ruling of an Act of Disorder under Section 15.12 of the council’s Code of Meeting Practice. But there are question marks over the decision, because he agrees it was “implied” in the meeting transcript rather than explicit.
She said her rescission motion at the August meeting, which triggered the dispute, was lodged in good faith.
“I was not alleging misconduct and
Smith opposed. The meeting transcript shows the exchange was at times confusing.
Cr Peter Johnstone sought clarifcation from the mayor on whether he considered he had ruled an
minutes, with only Crs Cairns, Clancy and Yager opposed.
The following day, Mayor Smith struck a more sympathetic tone during a radio interview on Loving Life FM.
“Look, I never actually uttered the words that it was ruled,” he said.
“But I did rule in so far as I then invoked clause 15.12 of the Code of Meeting Practice, asking
Cr Cairns if she wished to retract her statement, apologise.
“So that implied that I had accepted the fact there had been an Act of Disorder.”
The mayor said he respected Cr Cairns’ right to raise the matter.
Cr Lynne Cairns believes a fnding of an Act of Disorder during the August Clarence Valley Council meeting has denied her natural justice and procedural fairness and has vowed to fght it.
Rare unity as council backs Clarenza housing plan
By Tim Howard
Clarence Valley councillors found uncommon consensus last week, throwing strong support behind a major new housing release at Clarenza despite their often divided views on development.
The Clarenza Urban Release Area (URA) Structure Plan was adopted with only one councillor, Karen Toms, voting against.
The plan sets out zoning, building heights, open space, transport links and neighbourhood centres for the long-anticipated growth area on Grafton’s southern fringe.
Even councillors who have been wary of large estates in the past spoke warmly about the proposal.
Cr Cristie Yager admitted she had “never thought I’d be happy to see a development,” but said the Clarenza URA had won her over.
She praised its villagestyle centres, integration of mature trees and habitat for wedge-tailed eagles,
and its safe pedestrian and cycle links.
“This isn’t just flling a paddock with houses,” she said. “It prioritises people over profts and creates community connection.”
Cr Lynne Cairns said she was “fabulous to see development of the foodplain,” while Cr Alison Bryant described
the location as “fantastic” and a “game changer” for families given its proximity to schools and South Grafton’s new shopping centre.
Cr Debrah Novak called the plan a “sympathetic development” and said it aligned with council’s housing strategy.
The motion was passed
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with a small amendment from Cr Greg Clancy requiring non-local tree species to be removed from the landscaping plan to comply with council’s tree policy.
Cr Toms stood alone in voting against, warning that council risked imposing unrealistic expectations on
She opposed increasing building heights from 9 to 12 metres and questioned the requirement for small retail hubs.
“If we’re not going to make it proftable for them, they won’t build — it’s as simple as that,” she said, noting that a Yamba Road development had already stalled for viability reasons.
Cr Clancy rejected claims that councillors were “anti-development,”
saying the Clarenza plan struck a balance between growth and protecting sensitive areas.
The Clarenza URA is expected to take decades to fully build out, but councillors agreed it is one of the valley’s most suitable areas for growth — away from food risk and close to existing schools and services.
Mayor Ray Smith declared after the vote:s “A very happy council here today.”
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The Clarenza Urban Release Area sparked a rare moment of almost complete council unity on a development project.
Cr Karen Toms was a lone voice against approval for the DA. She was concerned the development’s focus on rural retail hubs was unreasonable.
Regrowth and new hope in the juiciest way
By Samantha Elley
Last week we brought you the news that OzHarvest were bringing their Oh! game through their Oh! for OzHarvest range, launched at the Woodburn farm of Rob McLean.
There is a story behind the story, however, and what people don’t know is of the sheer doggedness of the 72-year-old plumber and farmer and his determination to reestablish his farm after the 2022 foods.
“I had to start from square one,” said Rob.
“I was thinking about retiring, I still had the business and then I had to go beg, borrow and steal to buy a truck.
“I had to go and work to replace tools.
“I saw a lot of my retirement materials foat down the creek, couldn’t stop it, I had nowhere to put it.”
Rob has two houses on the farm where he lives in one and his son and grandson live in the other and both were inundated
with foodwater, as was his brand new juicing factory built in 2021.
“(The water) reached the gutterline of the juice factory which I’d just spent a little bit of my retirement fund on,” he said.
“I was going to go into fresh juicing. Never even got to open the juicers.
“But here I am three and a half years later I’ve fxed one (juicer) and I’ve bought another one and now I’ve registered as a juice factory.”
Rob is on the verge of opening Rusty Iron Pure Juice. “I am going to cold flter, there is a cold fltering system,” he said. “At the moment I am
going to make a few bottles of juice and if someone wants it, they can have it.”
He will use the fruit from his 450 lemon trees, reduced from 1200 before the food, and has planted more orange, olive and lime trees to replace the 30-yearold stock he had before February 2022.
“I’ve got blood oranges, navel oranges, Valencia oranges, limes,” he said.
“So I’m going to have a go at all of them and probably even tomato juice but that will be coldpressed.”
We walk through the rows of lemon trees on his property which lies on the banks of the Rocky Mouth
Where: Clarence River, Tabulam NSW
The fragrance of the fowering trees is comforting, as is the business of the bees attracted by the perfume, as they do what they do best providing new life, new hope and a new start for Rob and his family.
Green lemons turning yellow, hang with a juicy weight, promising great produce, not only for OzHarvest’s new drinks range, but for the juice that Rob wants to start processing.
“I’ve always had the problem of trying to get rid of the surplus of product,” said Rob.
“You can only sell so
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much to fsh and chip shops and markets.
“Two and a half years ago I got in touch with OzHarvest and donated a tonne to them.
“What I’m getting for the lemons doesn’t even cover costs but it saves me waste.”
Rob has reduced his waste from thousands of kilos to tens of kilos and he feels pretty good about that, especially when for every can of the OzHarvest drink sold, it allows them to provide a meal for homeless people.
Rob still works as a plumber to get an income, but he looks forward to building up his juicing business.
“Any spare money has been going back into this because I had to rebuild two houses,” he said. Because Rob had over two hectares but not making enough money from his land, he did not qualify for any government assistance.
“It’s been a hard road,” he said.
“I had to rebuild my mower and rebuild my tractors and I’d go and work and whatever I got would go back into my parts for that.”
Keep an eye out for Rusty Iron Pure Juice and to buy the Ozharvest range, go to ozharvest.org.
OTHER FUN
NIGHT TIME
Creek at Woodburn.
Gradually, then suddenly America’s dangerous hinge moment
Comment
By Tim Howard
Commentators have begun to worry aloud about the collapse of democracy in the United States.
Increasingly, they draw on Ernest Hemingway’s famous description of how bankruptcy happens: “gradually, then suddenly.”
For years the question was whether the “gradual” erosion of democratic norms could truly lead to collapse.
Today the focus has shifted. The question now is whether America has already crossed into the “suddenly.”
History suggests we should be cautious about assuming that democracies simply wear out slowly.
Sometimes the moment of collapse arrives not with tanks in the streets, but with the mythologising of a single event.
A seemingly minor episode becomes the hinge on which politics swings.
Horst Wessel, a 22-yearold Nazi street fghter, was killed in 1930, shot at close range in a struggle with communists during a street gang turf war.
Even as he lay dying in hospital propaganda minister Joseph Goebbels declared “degenerate communist subhumans” had attacked him, before police investigations had begun.
When Wessel died soon after, Goebbels turned
his funeral into theatre, transforming Wessel into a martyr.
His name was enshrined in song, his death presented as proof of persecution, and his myth provided the Nazis with a potent rallying cry.
Crucially, this happened at the very moment the party was moving from the political margins into a position to seize power.
Between 1930 and 1933, Germany went from a fragile democracy to a dictatorship.
Wessel’s elevation did not cause that transformation, but it gave the movement a cathartic release: grief and rage sanctifed into a sense of destiny.
The shooting of Charlie Kirk has the potential to play a similar role in the United States.
In itself, the event was tragic but contained — a rally turned violent, a single death.
Yet almost instantly Kirk, a divisive fgure in life, has been canonised on the right as a martyr
to free speech, a symbol that confrms every grievance Donald Trump has spent years cultivating against “radical left lunatics.”
Those who question this narrative are being threatened into silence. The man himself is already receding behind the myth.
This is not just catalytic — it is cathartic.
It provides Trump’s movement with the emotional purge it craves: a release of resentment, a righteous justifcation for escalating the fght, a symbol that makes compromise unthinkable.
Just as Wessel’s death allowed Nazis to transform bitterness into sacred mission, Kirk’s martyrdom risks becoming the emotional hinge where “gradual” erosion fips into “sudden” collapse.
It is tempting to dismiss such fears as catastrophising. Hitler comparisons are always dangerous, often lazy. But history does not
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need to repeat exactly for it to rhyme.
A democracy weakened by cynicism, polarisation and contempt for institutions is always vulnerable to the cathartic power of myth.
Authoritarians know that tragedy feeds their cause while comedy starves it.
That is why the Nazis silenced Weimar cabaret, and why Trump’s movement celebrates the cancelling of satirist Jimmy Kimmel.
For Kirk’s death to work as martyrdom, it must remain tragic, solemn, untouchable. Laughter is lethal to the myth.
Satire refuses to let grief become sanctifed rage. Which is why, if America is to resist this “sudden” collapse, it may need not just solemn warnings, but the courage to laugh at the wouldbe authoritarians who demand our tears.
And once a society accepts a martyr as proof that opponents are not merely wrong but dangerous, the road to authoritarianism shortens quickly.
Hemingway was right: collapse rarely comes all at once. But when it comes, it always feels sudden.
The question for America now is whether Charlie Kirk’s death becomes just another tragic footnote — or the cathartic hinge point that future historians will identify as the moment democracy slipped beyond repair.
New Deputy Mayor for Tweed Shire
Robert Heyward
Cr Reece Byrnes has been elected as the new Deputy Mayor of Tweed Shire for the next 12 months.
The election took place at yesterday’s Council meeting, with Cr Byrnes nominated for the role by outgoing Deputy Mayor Cr Meredith Dennis.
Cr Kimberly Hone also contested the position.
In the Tweed, the Mayor and Deputy Mayor are chosen by fellow councillors. While Mayor Chris Cherry was reelected in October 2024 for a two-year term, the Deputy Mayor position is elected annually.
Cr Byrnes, a Labor councillor frst elected in 2016 at the age of 28, previously served as Deputy Mayor in 2017/18 and from 2020 to 2022.
At the time of his election, he was the youngest councillor in the Shire’s history. He lives in Banora Point with his wife and infant daughter, and his family has deep local roots, with his father once working as a Tweed prawn fsherman.
Mayor Cherry welcomed Cr Byrnes back into the role, praising both his experience and community support.
“Cr Dennis is both an outstanding Councillor and a well-loved and active member of the Tweed community,”
Cr Cherry said. “She has been extremely hardworking and wholeof-community focused as
Deputy Mayor. Cr Byrnes is really experienced on Council and received the biggest increase in votes at the last local government election, so I am sure he will be a popular choice as Deputy Mayor.”
Cr Byrnes said he was honoured to return to the position and pledged to focus on respectful and constructive local debate.
“My mission now as your Deputy Mayor is to restore some kindness to the local political debate, and to raise the bar of decency in our discourse in troubling and hard times for all,” he said.
“I want to recognise the work of all my colleagues despite their political leanings. For the next few weeks I will be getting back into this role and get your Council operating in a way that refects our modern ideals and our shared values.”
Council meetings are open to the public, with details and livestream links available via the Council’s website.
Tens of thousands of people attended the funeral of slain right wing activist Charlie Kirk, which US leaders have turned into a rallying call for their beliefs. It has echoes from earlier times when authoritarian leaders used martyred followers to further their cause.
Outgoing Deputy Mayor Meredith Dennis congratulates new Deputy Mayor Reece Byrnes.
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Company partnership recognised
Jef Gibbs
TAFE NSW has been named Large Training Provider of the Year at the 2025 NSW Training Awards, celebrating excellence in vocational education while students and industry partners also claimed top honours.
The 70th anniversary event, held last week, recognised the best in training across industries including energy, construction, community services, hairdressing, engineering, and early childhood education.
TAFE NSW recognised for excellence Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan, said the results demonstrated the lifechanging impact of vocational education.
“Vocational education is a smart choice for people starting a career or making a change.
The winners and fnalists are proof of the opportunities that skills training can unlock,” he said.
TAFE NSW Managing Director, Chloe Read, accepted the award on behalf of staf across 154 campuses statewide.
“This refects the dedication of our teachers and all who support students in local communities. It shows how TAFE NSW provides the knowledge, practical skills and confdence people need to succeed,” Ms Read said.
Local partnership earns top award
A highlight for the Northern Rivers was the recognition of Casino Food Company Ltd, which together with TAFE NSW won the Industry Collaboration Award
The award acknowledges the delivery of nationally recognised training on-site at Casino Food
Company, including the Certifcate II in Meat Processing. The program has provided employees with practical, job-ready skills while boosting efciency, safety and career opportunities.
Casino Food Company CEO Simon Stahl said the award refected a commitment to strengthening the red meat industry through workforce development.
“Through our collaboration with TAFE NSW, our employees are gaining the skills and confdence to succeed. This partnership ensures our workforce continues to grow in capability and resilience, supporting both our people and the industry,” he said.
Student success stories
TAFE NSW students were also in the spotlight, taking home two major awards: James Barry –Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student
of the Year
Rebecca Hambrook – Vocational Student of the Year
Several others were named state fnalists in categories including Apprentice of the Year, Trainee of the Year, and School-Based Apprentice/Trainee of the Year.
Ms Read said these results highlighted the dedication of students and teachers alike.
“Our students put in the time and energy to perfect their skills, often while juggling work and family commitments. Their success is a credit to their determination and the expertise of our teachers,” she said. Looking ahead to the nationals
All winners will now progress to represent NSW at the Australian Training Awards in Darwin on 5 December 2025, giving local talent and collaborations the chance to shine on the national stage.
Casino Meat Industry industry winners.
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Byron Bay Photographer Craig Parry Wins at Ocean Photographer of the Year Awards
Jef Gibbs
Byron Bay photographer
Craig Parry has taken out frst place in the Human Connection Award: People & Planet Ocean category at the prestigious Ocean Photographer of the Year Awards
Craig’s winning image, titled Stranded, was captured at Seven Mile Beach, Lennox Head, and tells the moving story of a community united in the
face of tragedy. “In the early hours of 1 July 2023, we received a call about a stranded humpback whale,” Craig explained. “Local wildlife volunteers quickly assessed the situation and contacted SeaWorld Marine Rescue and other key agencies to coordinate a response. For 15 hours, rescue teams and the local community worked tirelessly in a unifed efort to save her. Sadly, despite
their dedication, she could not be saved.”
The Ocean Photographer of the Year competition is one of the world’s leading showcases of ocean imagery, featuring 118 photographs judged by an international panel of photographers, editors, and curators. The awards aim to both celebrate the beauty of the ocean and highlight the challenges it faces, with the winning works reaching millions
worldwide through exhibitions and media.
Craig, whose work is recognised for its emotional depth and striking perspective, said the award carried special meaning.
“While the outcome from this moment was heartbreaking, witnessing the collaboration and compassion shown by multiple agencies and volunteers was incredibly moving – a powerful
reminder of what can be achieved when people come together with a shared purpose.”
About the Photographer
Craig Parry is an acclaimed Australian ocean and nature photographer and videographer, renowned for capturing intimate moments in the natural world. His photography often explores themes of wildlife, conservation,
and the beauty of remote landscapes, using both aerial and underwater perspectives.
He has worked alongside global conservation groups and international brands, creating authentic, emotionally resonant imagery that inspires audiences to connect with the environment.
More of Craig’s work can be found at www. craigparryphotography. com
Stranded by Craig Parry, 1st place, Human Connection Award: People & Planet Ocean, Ocean Photographer of the Year Awards
Council Explores Solar-Powered Community Bateries for Byron Shire Five minutes could save your life
Byron Shire Council is investigating the potential to install solar-powered community batteries on local facilities, with the aim of both feeding clean energy back into the grid and providing emergency power when needed.
The proposal is being advanced by Council’s Community Battery Working Group, which has spent the past fve months researching operating models and opportunities for collaboration with the community.
Alicia Lloyd, Council’s Team Leader Sustainability, said the most efective option identifed was to install batteries on Councilowned community facilities that already host solar panels or have solar potential.
“Putting batteries on Councilowned community facilities where there are existing solar panels or solar potential would see energy able to be fed back into the grid at night and this would provide a
fnancial beneft,” Dr Lloyd said.
“Because the batteries store energy, they would also be very useful during emergencies, providing another level of resilience if the power is out for long periods of time.”
The next step will see staf work with a renewable energy consultant to undertake a feasibility study. This study will identify which Council facilities are best suited for energy storage, outline benefts for the community, and provide cost estimates for installation.
The fndings will be overseen by the Community Battery Working Group and presented back to Council for further consideration.
Dr Lloyd said the initiative refects a growing trend among councils across Australia.
“This is exciting technology and many councils around Australia are investing in projects like this which beneft Council, the community and provide a good environmental outcome as well,” she said.
By Samantha Elley
The Rotary supported Men’s Health Education Rural Van has been and gone for another year.
Col Lee from Rotary Ballinaon-Richmond said the van had been very well utilised even on the frst morning of their two day stay at Fawcett Park in Ballina.
“It’s been going non-stop,” he said.
“We’ve already had a few visitors.”
To underline the importance of the van, Col told a story from a couple of years ago where a man who was travelling for work from Brisbane came in for a checkup.
“He had stopped in the cofee shop near where we had the van set up,” said Col.
“The girls there suggested he go and get a quick checkup.
“He found out he had a very high blood pressure and diabetic symptoms.
“He was given a referral and some medication to get his blood pressure down and told to visit his doctor when he got back home.”
Col knows just that one checkup makes the van’s visits worth it as it is free and quick and it may just save your life. Never fear, the van will be back next year but if you have concerns about your health in the meantime, go and see your doctor.
Mens health van
Jef Gibbs
Mayor Welcomes Australia’s Newest Citizens in Lismore
Jef Gibbs
Lismore City Mayor
Steve Krieg has ofcially welcomed 80 new citizens in a special ceremony marking Australian Citizenship Day at the recently repaired old Municipal Building.
The record number of participants came from across the globe, with new Australians hailing from Bangladesh, Brazil, Canada, China, Colombia, Denmark, France, Germany, Guatemala, India, Iran, Iraq, Kenya, Nepal, New Zealand, Nigeria, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, the
United States, Thailand, Vietnam and Zimbabwe.
Mayor Krieg described the occasion as one of the highlights of his role.
“One of the best parts
of my job is to warmly welcome new Australian citizens who are now part of the common bond that unites all Australians and respects diversity,” he
said.
“Congratulations and welcome to our new citizens. Australia is one of the most culturally diverse nations in the
world, and since 1949, we have welcomed more than fve million new citizens to our shores.”
Each year, 17 September is observed
as Australian Citizenship Day — a time for refection and celebration of the shared values, rights and responsibilities that come with citizenship. It also serves as an important educational opportunity, promoting cultural awareness, social unity, and pride in Australia’s achievements as a nation.
Lismore City Council, on behalf of the Department of Home Afairs, regularly hosts citizenship ceremonies to formally welcome new members of the community.
For further details about Australian citizenship, visit www.citizenship. gov.au
Work begins on new Ballina SES Headquarters
Robert Heyward
Construction has ofcially commenced on a new State Emergency Service (SES) unit and Emergency Operations Centre in Ballina, with the project set to deliver modern facilities and improved operational efciency for local volunteers.
The new headquarters will ensure the Ballina SES Unit is better
equipped to continue its vital work responding to foods, storms and other emergencies across the region.
Project features
The state-of-the-art
complex will include: a new six-bay vehicle shed administration ofces with an Emergency Operations Room and Incident Control Centre training and meeting rooms, ofces, and locker room with showers laundry, storage, and kitchen/ dining facilities carparking and lighting upgrades connecting footpaths and stormwater infrastructure landscaping and ofset planting.
A Review of Environmental Factors (REF) has been completed and approved, including a Vegetation Management Plan developed by specialist consultants and Council ecologists.
Environmental balance
As part of the works, 40 trees will be removed from the site. To mitigate
the impact, Ballina Shire Council will plant 80 new trees, 150 shrubs, and 350 ground covers, using species that support the local coastal swamp forest. Council says this approach provides a fair balance between environmental protection and the need for critical emergency facilities.
Funding and timeline
The $6.3 million project is jointly funded, with $2.1 million from the NSW Government and $4.2 million from Ballina Shire Council The current SES headquarters will remain operational throughout construction, with the new carpark to be established once the main building is complete. The project is expected to be fnalised by late 2026
Mayor Welcomes Australia’s Newest Citizens in Lismore.
Races
“
has views on just about anything”
‘Mum
‘Leemo Cat’ back.
CRIKEY, I got summonsed with a DREADFULLY uncouth vocal tone & language from ’Mum Jane.’ ‘LEEMO, tell the Buddies to get back to their own houses RIGHT NOW whilst shouting.. shooo, go on, all of you, shooo! You & myself Leems need to have a chat which will be primarily ME speaking, YOU listening, paying attention & acting on my instructions. Gottit?’ She then presented me with 4 soft white paw glove things. ‘Put these on Leems & run ALL your paws over all shelves, ornaments, furniture, books, foors, trees, our car, windows & whatever. If there are any dust marks on the gloves it means YOU & I have a lot of chores to accomplish asap. (Well, Mum may well have arthritis in her back & knees but I may HAVE IT IN MY PAWS! Aaargh!) Don’t stare at me with that plaintive befuddled dumb cat look, just start the white glove check!’ OMG, she’s forgotten I’m a CAT! Cats were not born for this kinda stuf! Our life after birth is to be cute, purr, be fufy, sleep, be served & eat many treats, paw-pat & head butt our humans, (if they are kind) sleep, use litter trays, purr & sleep more & sometimes ‘frisk’ & push stuf around noisily at 3.11am daily. Easy Peasy! ‘BUT’ I was NOT born to be a ‘feline duster’ as a career path.’ Hmmm! ‘Mum, I’ve had enough
of this: what’s going on? What IS IT with this dusting gloves crapp stuf anyhow?
WELL?? Ooooh! She yelled again! ‘Leemo, a member of MY family is calling in a few days hence: You’ll know her ‘cos she will be wearing soft white gloves & you’ve gotta help make our abode spick & span. You need to tidy & sparkle warkle your room. Anything we can’t hide together we will chuck over our deck into the overgrown shrubbery below: tell the Buddies they are banned from visiting until my sister has come & gone. Comprende?’ OMG, what’s the panic Mum? You always talk about your family with so much great love, humour, admiration and afection so what’s changed?’ She pondered with wrinkled forehead & squinty eyes. ‘Leems, SOME of my family are perfectionists but “WE” ARE NOT, (being you & I.) The one great advantage we have is that my sister who is visiting loves cats. SO, you have a vital role to play. We shall practice together: let me explain. Leems, do NOT lie fat on your back, paws in air kinda exposing manly parts you no longer have & farting: do NOT even dream of doing an ankle nip or maul & if she picks you up & says idiotic words like ‘hello Leemsie Weensie’. Simply purr loudly with a blissful tone & stare at her with adoration: DO NOT HISS or growl. Do NOT change the TV Channel to ‘Bluey’ as my sister prefers ‘Martha Stewart’s Serene Living Tips.’ (I may have to give you a Valium?) So, get on with the white glove check Leems & report back to me or no treats!’ (CRIKEY, I didn’t like to tell her that due to my extraordinary feline eyesight I spotted 4 spiders in their webs making babies on our ceiling. Best I leave it for now. I’m ‘sneaking’ out to see the Buddies to discuss ‘THE VISIT’. Nitey from Leems. (Gloveless!)
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.
Keep the Humour in Recipes
Whoever writes the recipes deserves a medal. The jokes make me laugh out loud. More please—it’s the highlight of the paper for me.
— S. Duncan, Ballina
Calling community to have say on road upgrades
I have studied the new concept for Dunoon Rd. I see no problem with Roundabout @ Tweed & Terania Sreets. As long as is fat enough for trucks coming from sale yards to drive over to get around.
The next Roundabout at Alexander Prade & Tweed Street won’t work as it would make it to hard to get out of sale yards for truck & semie trailers to get around.
Alexander Prade at the Virduct should come straight across Salter Creek then up to Tweed Street with a Roundabout there, this would bring it next to the. New car park, with road down on to the old Alexander Pard to Show Ground Gate. It becomes bottle neck here
with passing trafc. Would have to close Alexander Parade at Virduct & other end near cattle pavilion.
As for road passed show ground needs to B 4 lanes to have through trafc & turning lanes in & out of show grounds. Then at new school entrance same thing in & out lains.
As for the Roundabout at the Norto Lismore Plateau development if it happens they need Roundabout here.
I would have thought this & Road Works would have to B payed for by the Developers when Subdivison was approved. Mayor has said we need to get this right ,I don’t think they have had a good look at what is need, or the trafc movement & size of trucks in & out of Sale Yards or Show Grounds. I have worked on gates at the show ground & know what trafc movement there are.
I hope all councillors read this..
—Robert Morton.
Caravan Park Residents Deserve Fairness
These residents have invested in their homes for years, often with council approval. To now label them as “temporary” and evict them is unfair. Mediation is welcome, but it shouldn’t have come to a tribunal at all.
— K. Allen, Maclean
The Look Feels Fresh
The redesign has made the Times feel more modern while still local. It’s easy to navigate, and the features fow nicely. A great improvement.
— B. Carter, Casino
Storm Warnings Must Be Heeded
The SES is spot on. I still remember February 2022 and how unprepared some of us were. Preparing now—cleaning gutters, making a kit, planning for pets—could save lives. It shouldn’t take another disaster for people to act.
— L. Harper, Mullumbimby
Creamy Chicken Delight
Your cooking page gets funnier each week. The creamy chicken Florentine is written like a rom-com! I’ll try it—with wine, as ordered.
— V. Brown, Casino
Buyback Auctions Bring Hope
Seeing homes sell for $1 is
surreal, but it gives them a second life and gets people of the foodplain. I hope the program keeps momentum—families need certainty, not more waiting.
— B. Mitchell, South Lismore
Surfng Spirit Alive
The ABB returning is exciting. Grassroots meets world-class surfng, right on our doorstep. Young surfers will be inspired.
— A. Wilson, Lennox Head
Trust in Minutes Matters
It may sound like dry procedure, but council minutes are the public record. If they don’t refect what was said, they’re worthless. Clarence Valley Council has already lost public confdence; this latest saga just reinforces the feeling that the culture is about control, not community.
— S. Bennett, Yamba
Redmen Can Hold Their Heads High
The Grafton Redmen women were inspirational. Extra time in a grand fnal is no small feat. These players are trailblazers for local rugby.
— D. Ward, Grafton
Where’s Miss 8?
We missed the “Miss 8 years old” stories this week! Her little insights bring so much joy and innocence. Please keep them coming—it’s one of the reasons I buy the paper.
— K. Roberts, Alstonville
Byron Needs Input on Flood Plans
It’s good Byron Council is fnally asking residents for feedback on the foodplain risk plans. Locals know better than any map where the water really went. I encourage everyone afected in 2022 to put in their stories and photos.
— A. Davis, Sufolk Park
A Paper With Colour and Life
I want to congratulate the team on how vibrant the paper looks lately. The colour, layout and photo use really pop—it’s a pleasure to read. Keep it up!
— L. Peterson, Tweed Heads
Lessons From America
The Charlie Kirk commentary was sobering. It’s a reminder that polarisation leads nowhere good. We need to stop treating opponents as
enemies before it infects our politics too.
— T. O’Reilly, Murwillumbah
Political Commentary Matters
Thank you for not shying away from serious opinion pieces. The commentary on polarisation was tough but important. Local papers should be unafraid to tackle global issues.
— M. James, Bangalow
Food Waste Turned Into Gold
The Oh! Lemonaid story is brilliant. Turning “ugly fruit” into a product that tastes good and funds meals shows exactly what innovation should look like.
— H. Collins, Woodburn
Culture and Markets Together
The Kinship Festival and Makers & Finders Market make Murwillumbah shine. Free events that bring people together across culture and creativity—just what our region needs.
— F. Rowe, Murwillumbah
Veterans Golf in True Spirit
The Coraki vets battling the wind shows the heart of local sport. It’s about mateship more than trophies. Keep the results coming.
— N. James, Coraki
Protecting Children Must Come First
The Barnardos report is shocking. Girls under fve making up such a large portion of homeless children should shame us all. Housing and family support must be a priority.
— M. Hughes, Ballina
Evans Head Volunteers Deserve Recognition
Great to see surf club volunteers getting defbrillators. That’s real support for people who keep us safe. The tennis club upgrade is a bonus too—community sport relies on small wins like these.
— P. Lawson, Evans Head
Hospitals Under Pressure
The fgures from Grafton and Maclean hospitals are no surprise. EDs are stretched thin. Staf are doing their best, but the system is at breaking point. Regional health needs real investment, not bandaids.
— S. Taylor, Yamba
Leemo
Jane’ has FAMILY VISITING’
Solar Train Dreaming
How great that Byron’s solar train is ofering driver experiences. This is tourism with imagination and a green message. Rail heritage and modern energy—what a combination!
— D. Foster, Byron Bay
A Rail Trail Flush of Humour
Loved the cheeky tone about the new toilet blocks. But jokes aside, clean and accessible toilets are essential if the rail trail is to succeed. Families will appreciate this.
— C. Duncan, Lismore
A Mess Worth Making
The Lemon Eton Mess recipe is exactly right— chaotic but tasty. I smashed the meringues with gusto and it was perfect.
— R. Young, Kyogle
More Sports, Please!
I love the coverage of local rugby and surfng. Could we also see more on bowls, golf and even netball? It all makes the Times feel like the true community paper.
— R. Evans, Kyogle
A Council Culture Problem
The Clarence Valley Council mess over the “Act of Disorder” shows how council culture hasn’t changed. If the mayor didn’t declare it, it shouldn’t appear in the minutes. This is basic governance. When the public sees records twisted to ft an agenda, it destroys trust. We deserve councillors who play fair, not games of ambush.
— J. McDonald, Grafton
Cheeky Chicken
That creamy chicken recipe had me grinning.
My husband reckons the instructions were written after a glass of wine—and he’s not wrong. Keep the cheek coming!
— E. Walsh, Cofs Harbour
RVC Bull S**t
RVC saying ratepayers “paid” for the Primex land is nonsense. The Wrights paid rates, not council. Primex thrived through private hard work, and now Casino loses out because of council arrogance. Spin doesn’t change facts.
— J. McKenzie, Bentley
Primex Spin Again
J. McKenzie hit the nail on the head last week. RVC’s line that “ratepayers paid for Primex land” is spin of the highest order. The Wright family paid their rates fair and square. Stop rewriting history—admit the council bungled it and move on.
— T. Davies, Casino
Book Review Temptation
The review of The Wife and the Widow convinced me—I ordered it straight away. If it keeps me awake past midnight, I’ll be blaming The Times!
— S. O’Connor, Byron Bay
Kyogle Show Excitement
The Kyogle Show is the heart of our town. From cattle rings to sideshow alley, it’s the one weekend that brings us all together. Having Helen Trustum open the 2025 show is perfect—her history in agriculture is inspiring.
— R. Kelly, Kyogle
Creamy Chicken RomCom
Your recipe writer should moonlight as a comedian. “Tuscan Airbnb” nearly had me choking on my
tea. More of this culinary cheek, please.
— G. Thompson, Coolangatta
Miss 8 Support P. Parry was right last week—Miss 8 is a gem. Her “Pomeranian and the Dragon” was delightful. Please keep her stories fowing, they balance the heavy news with innocence and joy.
— C. Webb, Alstonville
Custard Apple Love
To P. Walters and M. Johnston last week— yes, that Custard Apple Teacake was a winner! Seasonal fruit and cheeky writing keep the recipe page the best in the paper. More like that, please.
— T. Dawson, Mullumbimby
Council Minutes and Disorder
The Clarence Valley Council saga is beyond embarrassing. How can minutes record an “Act of Disorder” that the mayor never clearly declared? This kind of procedural fudge is exactly why so many residents have lost trust. The council seems more interested in silencing each other than in addressing real community issues. It looks like yet another case of heavy-handed governance that places ego over service. Residents deserve much better.
— J. Wallace, Maclean
Kinship Festival Joy
The preview of Murwillumbah’s Kinship Festival was wonderful to read. Ten years of celebrating Aboriginal culture on Bundjalung Country is a milestone worth marking. I’ll be taking my grandchildren along. These events teach them respect and
connection in ways no classroom ever could.
— D. Roberts, Murwillumbah
Kyogle Show – A True Highlight
Reading the Kyogle Show feature warmed my heart. Our shows are more than rides and fairy foss— they’re living reminders of agricultural heritage. Helen Trustum opening the show is ftting; her family’s dedication to cattle and community is legendary. Let’s all turn out and support the showgrounds this year.
— F. Anderson, Kyogle
Opioid Warning Hits Home
The overdose alert is frightening. Many people in our region think cocaine is a “party drug,” but when it’s laced with heroin, it becomes deadly. I urge everyone to take the advice seriously and carry naloxone. It could save a mate’s life.
— E. Fraser, Byron Bay
Cooking Page – A Hoot
The recipe pages this week were hilarious. Whoever writes these deserves a medal. I laughed out loud at the “Tuscan Airbnb” description in the chicken recipe. Cooking can be stressful, but humour makes it fun. Please keep them coming.
— R. McMahon, Evans Head
Funeral Notices Matter
I want to thank The Northern Rivers Times for continuing to print full funeral notices. For many families, this is the last public tribute to a loved one. In an age where so much is online-only, it means a lot to hold the paper in your hands and see their memory honoured.
— K. Dawson, Ballina
Kraus in the house...
By Nigel Dawe
HAVING been to uni for the best part of the 90’s studying social analysis and communication related theory; nothing opened my eyes or mind more to the subtleties of how we interact, and make ourselves known, than my frst trip to Europe. There is nothing quite like being in a country where you don’t understand even as many as a dozen words, let alone how they might be put into a sentence that ‘makes sense’.
The upshot of this experience wasn’t just bewilderment though, it was a profound and new found appreciation of my own native English, not to mention the usage of language in all its varied forms. While language is often the most overlooked skill we possess, it is a skill that can be bettered and refned each and every day of our lives. It occurred to me while overseas, that having a grasp of any language commences when you begin to ‘get’ and partake in humour, pun, abstract thought and word-play.
Pretty much all of us can utilise language for practical ends and means – so, asking for anything in particular; expressing our comforts and concerns; shooting the breeze with pleasantries and idle chat. But some manage to use language in such a way that it doesn’t just express cultural givens, it creates entire undetected realms and possibilities of thought. One such heightened practitioner of language was the Austrian Karl Kraus, and during the interwar years there was no brighter analytical luminary than this furrow-browed conjuror
of wit at its most barbed. None other than Clive James once said of Kraus, that he was: “the Viennese café pundit who brilliantly fulflled a self-created role as the scourge of loose language... the linguistic health inspector who searched through what was said for what was meant. He constantly pointed out the connection between ofcial bombast and the sufering of the people... between fne writing and foul behaviour.” And thus, what Kraus could do with thought, meaning, innuendo and the concise ‘aid’ of words defes full extrapolation to this day. In a world that preceded television, the internet and its tireless succession of docos, podcasts, chats and blogs; Kraus could pack out auditoriums by just taking the stage to entertain with nothing other than the heaving content of his own mind. Loaded with provocation and query, seemingly everything Kraus said made people not just ponder but demand more from themselves in the face of a world changing more rapidly than ever before. As he once stated, “A worldview is a good horse. But still there is a diference between a rider and a horse trader.” As if addressing, albeit directly assessing our own generation in advance, Kraus once mused, “Automobile, telephone and gigantic editions of drivel –who can say what the generation after next will have for brains?” While none of us can answer this question on behalf of everyone else, we can each try this cap on for size, in the held hope that it doesn’t come anywhere near close to ftting.
Helping older adults navigate the aged care system
Robert Heyward
Healthy North Coast has confrmed the extension of the care fnder program across the Mid North Coast and Northern NSW for another four years, ensuring vulnerable older people continue to receive dedicated support in accessing aged care and community services.
The care fnder program, which has been running nationally for almost three years, has already proved invaluable. Its continuation coincides with the upcoming once-in-ageneration reforms under the new Aged Care Act, due to commence on 1 November 2025. As part of these reforms, care fnders have been recognised as a vital part of the new system.
Regional providers announced
For the 2025–2029 period, following a competitive tender process, two organisations have been selected to deliver care fnder services locally:
Footprints Community – servicing Kyogle, Tweed, Byron and Ballina regions
Each – covering Cofs Harbour, Nambucca and Bellingen, Clarence Valley, Richmond Valley, Lismore, Port Macquarie Hastings and Kempsey
Supporting those who need it most
Care fnders are specifcally designed to help older people who may struggle to navigate the aged care system alone. The service was developed in response to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, which found that many people, particularly those most vulnerable, faced signifcant challenges in getting the support they required.
Funded through the Australian Government’s
Kyogle Community Invited to Forum on Future of the Youthie
Jef Gibbs
Kyogle Together Inc. is calling on all community members to attend a public forum to discuss the future of Kyogle’s Youth Centre, known to locals as The Youthie
A development application currently under review proposes demolishing the existing centre to make way for a new basketball and netball stadium, evacuation centre, and meeting rooms. While these facilities could ofer new opportunities, the change would signifcantly afect young people and families who rely on The Youthie as a safe and welcoming space.
Public forum details
Date: Saturday, 27 September 2025
Time: Arrive 11.00am for an 11.15am start
Location: The Youthie, 161 Summerland Way, Kyogle
The forum will be guided by an experienced facilitator to ensure a respectful, open, and constructive conversation where all perspectives are heard.
A long-standing community hub
For nearly 80 years, the site has been at the heart of community connection in Kyogle. Originally built for families after the war, it has operated for the past three
decades as The Youthie, home to Kyogle Together’s programs for young people and families.
“Generations have relied on it as a safe, inclusive space. We cannot aford to lose that legacy—Council must ensure an accessible community space continues here in Kyogle for young people and families,” said Lea Hine of Kyogle Together.
Call for local voices
Kyogle Together is encouraging youth, parents, families, councillors, and all interested community members to attend the forum and share their views on what this proposal means for the town’s future.
Primary Health Network program, Healthy North Coast has committed almost $14 million to deliver the initiative
across the North Coast over the next four years.
Importantly, the service is free for those who need it. How care fnders can help
Care fnders can assist older people by: contacting My Aged Care and arranging assessments on their behalf attending and providing support during assessments identifying and shortlisting local aged care providers helping complete forms and understand service agreements and much more.
Accessing support
Most older adults who need aged care should frst contact My Aged Care on 1800 200 244 or visit myagedcare.gov.au to discuss their needs and arrange an assessment. They can also visit any Services Australia centre.
For those requiring extra help to navigate their options, individuals or referrers such as GPs can contact:
Footprints Community – 1800 366 877 or footprintscommunity.org.au
New $520,000 fre truck to protect the state’s north coast
Robert Heyward
A new Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) truck, valued at more than half a million dollars, has been assigned to protect the community of Goonellabah and Lismore and surrounds.
The Compressed Air Foam System (CAFS) Class 2 Pumper allows frefghters to tackle structural, chemical, petrol and grass fres using up to fve times less water than normal.
The highly efcient system combines foam concentrate with compressed air to supply fre hoses with superior frefghting capability whilst reducing smoke from the fre.
Quotes attributable to FRNSW Inspector, Price Conlan:
“The crew is pleased with the new appliance and the capability it brings to the area.
“When Fire and Rescue NSW replace a truck, it doesn’t send a ‘like for like’
model, it introduces better, modern and purpose-built fre engines that will serve the community for years to come.”
Quotes attributable to Janelle Safn, MP:
“Our Fire and Rescue NSW frefghters do an incredible job serving their local community as frst responders so it’s essential that they have state-of-the-art equipment at their disposal. “I’ve been lobbying hard for this new truck and was delighted when it was delivered to Goonellabah recently.
“It will come into its own as a real asset for emergency operations yearround.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Emergency Services, Jihad Dib:
“Our investment in additional fre trucks is helping to protect homes and businesses in the state’s north.
“The new truck will give frefghters an edge when responding to emergencies in Goonellabah and surrounding areas, all while allowing crews to knock down fres faster and more efciently than ever before.
“New state of the art frefghting vehicles like this will help keep regional communities safe, and ensure our frefghters have the tools they need to tackle a range of fres.”
Janelle Safn MP with Goonellabah Fire Crew
Tweed Council Leads Campaign to Challenge Ageism
Jef Gibbs
Ageism remains one of the most widespread yet least recognised forms of discrimination, and Tweed Shire Council is taking a stand. To mark Ageism Awareness Day on Thursday 9 October, Council’s Community Care team is leading a local campaign and hosting a community event to shine a spotlight on ageism and its impacts. Ageism can appear in everyday life — in ofhand jokes, in the workplace, or in the way older and younger people are portrayed in advertising and media. Tweed Mayor Chris Cherry said it was time to call it out.
“The issue is particularly important in the Tweed, which has one of the highest proportions of older residents in NSW. With so many locals over 55, challenging ageism is about supporting the wellbeing, participation and contributions of thousands of people,” Cr Cherry said.
“Ageism doesn’t just afect individuals. It shapes attitudes, limits opportunities and even infuences health and workplace participation. By naming it and challenging it, we can create a more inclusive Tweed.”
Challenging Ageism Together Council will host a
free community event, Challenging Ageism
Together, featuring former Age Discrimination Commissioner Joanna Maxwell, local experts and community voices. The event will include panel discussions, lived experiences, and strategies for addressing ageism in daily life.
� Thursday 9 October 2025 � 9.30am – 12 noon
� Tweed Heads South Community Hall
☕ Morning tea provided | Free event | Bookings via Humanitix Council’s Coordinator of Community Care, Jo Watters, said the campaign builds on existing programs that
keep older residents active and connected.
“Through initiatives like Fun Activities for Banora Seniors (FABS) and other intergenerational programs, we see every day how important it is for older people to stay engaged, share skills and feel valued,” Ms Watters said.
Ageism Awareness Day is an initiative of EveryAGE Counts, a national coalition committed to ending ageism. By joining the movement and taking the pledge, Tweed Shire Council has afrmed its commitment to building a community where people of all ages are celebrated, not stereotyped.
Diary of a Flood Survivor
One of the ways I have dealt with all the emotions that followed the loss of our house and belongings in 2022 is to write.
Hence this column, which I also hope has helped others in a small way, and the many entries in my personal diary that have explored my feelings, my reactions, my connections with my behaviour since the food, and it is has been helpful.
Helpful to the point I can talk about where our family is at with meaningful people who ask.
I found out recently that not everyone is at that point.
There are many who lived through the food experience and may still
have unresolved issues and feelings they just haven’t dealt with.
We all process our emotions in diferent ways and if you are feeling like you still have stuf to deal with, I strongly recommend you fnd a way to do it.
Find a trusted friend or explore professional help that will at least get you talking when you feel negatively afected.
On another note, we have been told by the Reconstruction Authority that we are another step closer to getting our retroft on the downstairs part of our house.
Neighbours have also been told the same, so it is tentatively exciting.
I say tentatively because
Photo Hannah Olinger Unsplash
it has been a long drawn out process and we can’t help feeling a little wary about getting our hopes up, until the builders have arrived.
Bringing an ancestor’s story back to
Title: Itinerant Soul
Author: Don Alcock
Price: $32.99
But as always, we practice the patience we have been keenly honing these last three and half years.
Little steps.
Federal Park Looking Fresh for Summer
Robert Heyward
Federal Park has received a welcome facelift just in time for summer, with Byron Shire Council completing a $39,000 spruce-up of the popular community space.
Nestled in the heart of Federal, the park is a much-loved gathering place for residents and visitors alike. The latest upgrades include the installation of hardwood timber bench seats and a brand-new outdoor
table tennis table, set to encourage plenty of spirited matches.
“I’m sure people are already searching for their table tennis bats and balls,” said Malcolm Robertson , Council’s Manager of Facilities and Open Spaces. “There will be some fercely competitive battles on that table over the next couple of months.”
Other works include new paving to link two existing paths , improving accessibility
and fow through the park, and the repair of the colourful mosaic artwork at the park’s entrance
Robertson thanked artists Turia Bruce and Pyari Cau, who created the original mosaic, for volunteering their time and expertise to restore the artwork.
“Our thanks go to Turia and Pyari for their contribution,” he said.
He also acknowledged the role of the community in shaping the project.
“These upgrades are a direct response to community requests. Federal Park has something for everyone, and I hope the community enjoys these latest improvements and additions.”
With shaded spaces, new seating, a restored mosaic and the fun of outdoor table tennis, Federal Park is looking fresh and ready to welcome locals throughout the warmer months.
Distributor: Booktopia
As family historians our greatest desire is to fnd the stories of our ancestors.
Don Alcock has done that beautifully in this engaging historical true story of his many times great-grandfather Richard Belsar.
From the slums of Liverpool, as a young lad, Richard knows how hard it is to survive and decides to explore the world by becoming a merchant sailor and ship’s carpenter. He explores the edges of the known world and goes beyond on Atlantic traders, whaling ships and heading to palm-oil outposts of West Africa.
He ends up in Van Diemen’s Land and then
on the gold felds of Victoria with his wife and family.
There are struggles and pain and moments of joy as they travel from station to station looking for work.
While there is a good dose of fction in the telling, Don has done incredible work piecing together what fragments of information there are to give life to his relatives, beyond their gravestones and names on a list.
Throughout the book he provides examples of where he obtained the information on Richard and his wife, Elizabeth, giving inspiration for other family historians who may want to write the story of their ancestors.
You can obtain your copy of Itinerant Soul from booktopia.com.au
Sunday 28th September at 2.30pm
Steve Posselt and Graeme Gibson
Restore the Richmond Council Planning for Lismore’s Future Growth
will set out in a small tinnie from Fawcett Park at Ballina to highlight the shocking state of the Richmond River.
These two old blokes have had enough. Countless reports since the 1980s have noted the problems and the answers, and still the river quality gets worse to the point that it is actually dying.
The mission statement of Richmond Riverkeeper is “drinkable, fshable, swimmable”. These are not lofty aims. They are our right.
Steve and Graeme will make their way upstream as far as possible which is expected to be somewhere above Kyogle, highlighting the state of the Richmond and Wilson Rivers and talking to many people on the way.
The trip title is "Restore the Richmond" and its aim is to foster the support of all who have simply had enough of the poor state of the river and are demanding action.
We want a single authority, responsible for the health of the whole river with adequate resources and accountability
No-one has the right to destroy the amenity of the river and to take away the livelihood of others.
l Tuckean Barrage- Monday 29th September
l Rocky Mouth Creek-Monday 29th September
l Bungawalbin Creek- Monday 29th
September
l Lismore- Tuesday 30th September
l Coraki- Wednesday 1st October
l Casino- Thursday 2nd October
l Kyogle- Friday 3rd October Wiangaree and further Sunday 5th
October
For further details: Facebook - Restore the Richmond Tinnie Trip
Council Planning for Lismore’s Future Growth
is well coordinated and sustainable.
Lismore City Council has brought in two of Australia’s most experienced planners to help shape a long-term vision for growth, as the regional centre looks ahead to a population of around 60,000 people
Work has begun on a Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS) – a policy framework that will guide land use, infrastructure, and investment priorities across the local government area. The plan will align with, and at times challenge, state, regional and local strategies to ensure growth
Mayor Steve Krieg said careful early planning was crucial for Lismore’s future.
“Lismore needs to be ready for appropriately planned growth whether it comes sooner or later. This is about building a smart, sustainable regional city that provides jobs, infrastructure, culture and lifestyle opportunities for residents today and for generations to come.”
Research shows that well-managed growth is vital for regional centres, with larger populations able to attract more health, education, lifestyle and employment opportunities.
The LSPS will explore
opportunities not only in Lismore’s urban centre but across surrounding towns and villages, with new housing and investment likely to form part of the strategy.
Council has engaged Gary White and Brendan Nelson of Solve Property Group to co-author the plan. Both bring decades of planning expertise: White, a former chief planner for NSW and Queensland, was named Australian Planner of the Year in 2018, while Nelson has twice received the same honour and previously served as Deputy Secretary of the NSW Department of Planning and Environment.
The draft LSPS will be released for public exhibition in early 2026, giving the community the chance to have its say before fnal adoption.
Mayor Krieg described the process as a pivotal moment for the city:
“This is a once-in-ageneration chance to get the balance right. If we plan well today, Lismore will be positioned as a regional leader tomorrow.”
Restore the Richmond. Photo Facebook
Jef Gibbs
Ballina and Kyogle Join Expanded EPA Embedded Batteries Recycling Trial
The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is expanding its embedded batteries recycling trial, with Ballina and Kyogle Community Recycling Centres among 13 new locations where households can safely dispose of gadgets containing built-in batteries.
Launched in 2024, the program has already collected and recycled more than 9,000
kilograms of problem waste, keeping it out of landfll and reducing fre risks. With the expansion, over 30 councils across NSW are now participating.
A Growing Hazard Lithium-ion batteries are now embedded in everyday items such as vapes, headphones, speakers, e-scooters, smartwatches, and electric toothbrushes
While they contain valuable recoverable
materials, they also pose signifcant dangers when incorrectly disposed of.
So far in 2025, Fire and Rescue NSW has responded to nearly 200 battery fres, many sparked in rubbish trucks or landflls. These fres are difcult to extinguish, endanger waste workers, and put nearby communities at risk.
Community Safety
First EPA Chief Executive Tony Chappel said
expanding the trial is about reducing risks while improving recycling outcomes.
“Battery fres are a serious issue that can have devastating consequences. With more than 30 councils now collecting these items, we’re making it easier for people to keep batteries out of the bin, protect the environment, increase recycling rates, and keep communities safe,” Mr Chappel said.
The scheme is part of broader eforts to establish a product stewardship model, ensuring items are responsibly managed at the end of their life.
Local Access
Residents in the Northern Rivers can now drop of unwanted items with embedded batteries at:
= Ballina Community Recycling Centre
= Kyogle Community Recycling Centre
The trial will run
until September 2026
Accepted items include small household gadgets and larger equipment such as e-scooters.
Locals are encouraged to check their homes for unused or broken devices and take them to their nearest Community Recycling Centre for safe disposal.
For full details on accepted items and dropof locations, visit epa. nsw.gov.au/embeddedbatteries
$20,000 BOOST FOR YAMBA ROTARY TO REBUILD STORAGE SHED
The Rotary Club of Yamba has received a major boost to its eforts to rebuild a vital storage shed destroyed by vandals in 2019, with a $20,000 grant from the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnerships program.
The shed, which was burnt down in November 2019, stored the club’s BBQ van, cool room, generator, tables and chairs – essential equipment used to support countless local community events and fundraising activities.
Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson said the funding would help the Rotary Club move ahead with confdence after years of hard work fundraising. “Yamba Rotary has been an incredible supporter of the local community for decades, and I’m
so pleased to see them receive this support to get their shed rebuilt,” Mr
Williamson said.
“The vandalism back in 2019 was a devastating setback, but through sheer determination, fundraising and now this grant, the club can move forward and continue its great work for Yamba and surrounds.”
Rotary Club Secretary Rick Angelo said the grant had been a turning point for the project.
“Without this grant we simply didn’t have the confdence the shed would ever be built,” Mr Angelo said.
“This funding has given us the push we needed. It’s already encouraged cash donations and ofers of help from local tradies
and businesses, and with the continued support of our community, we’ll now be able to complete the shed with the security and facilities our hardworking members deserve.”
The new shed will be built on council land at the Yamba Sewerage Treatment Plant, with a development application approved late last year.
Mr Williamson congratulated the club on their persistence.
“This is a great example of what can be achieved when the community works together. I can’t wait to see the shed completed and Yamba Rotary back to full strength.”
Canine Health Crisis in NSW: How to Protect Your Dog This Tick Season
Jef Gibbs
As spring advances and the weather warms, dog owners across New South Wales are being urged to stay vigilant. A deadly tick-borne disease, canine ehrlichiosis, is spreading fast and poses a serious risk to pets—particularly in rural and regional areas.
Veterinary experts warn that the disease, frst detected in Australia in 2020, has moved beyond the “top end” and is now appearing in southern states, including New South Wales. With tick season at its peak between August and September on the East Coast, and brown dog ticks active year-round in northern and western NSW, the risk has never been greater.
What is Ehrlichiosis?
Ehrlichiosis is a bacterial infection transmitted by the brown dog tick. Once bitten, a dog can develop symptoms in as little as a few hours. Early signs include:
•Fever
•Lethargy
•Loss of appetite
•Weight loss
As the disease progresses,
it may cause:
•Bleeding disorders
•Cloudy eyes
•Organ damage
•Septicaemia, which can be fatal
Treatment is possible with antibiotics like doxycycline, but the illness can linger in the body. Even after recovery, dogs may relapse—sometimes fatally. Currently, no vaccine exists.
A Growing Threat
Since its arrival in 2020, ehrlichiosis has spread rapidly across northern Australia. It is now established in Queensland, the Northern Territory, and Western Australia , where brown dog ticks thrive in the warm climate. In NSW, cases are increasingly linked to dogs that have travelled, but experts fear that it will soon
take hold in the state’s own tick populations.
The brown dog tick is already established in Bourke, Broken Hill, Walgett, and Wilcannia , making western NSW especially vulnerable.
Dr Liisa Ahlstrom, Technical Veterinarian at Elanco for Seresto, describes the disease as devastating:
“The rapid spread of ehrlichiosis cases across Australia and the severity of the disease seen in infected dogs has been alarming. In some areas where access to veterinary care is limited, it’s been estimated that up to 50% of dogs have died. It’s been heartbreaking witnessing the devastating efect of this disease.”
Case Study: Oreo’s Close Call
At Mudgee Vet Hospital,
Dr Paige Loneragan recalls treating a dog named Oreo. After two weeks of lethargy, loss of appetite and vomiting, Oreo’s red blood cell count had plummeted to 5%—well below the safe threshold of 20%.
The diagnosis was ehrlichiosis. Oreo required urgent treatment, including antibiotics and a blood transfusion.
“It’s likely Oreo contracted ehrlichiosis years earlier, with the infection lying dormant until this severe fare-up,” Dr Loneragan said.
“Her story is a reminder of the devastating impact of this emerging disease and the urgent need for prevention and early detection in dogs across Australia.”
Oreo survived, but many others will not.
Why Traditional Tick Protection May Not Be Enough
Most tick preventatives kill ticks only after they bite—a process that can take 2–3 days. Unfortunately, ehrlichiosis can be transmitted within just a few hours, meaning standard treatments may not ofer full protection.
That’s why repellents are critical. Unlike killonly treatments, repellent collars and products prevent ticks from attaching and biting in the frst place
Dr Ahlstrom stresses:
“It’s critical for dog owners to understand that to protect their pet from ehrlichiosis, they must use a tick product that repels ticks, to stop them biting and transmitting the bacteria.”
Yamba Rotary Club
Times The Northern Rivers Times
ENTERTAINMENT
September 25, 2025
Kangaroo (2025)
Jef Gibbs
Kangaroo is a warm, family-friendly Australian comedy-drama directed by Kate Woods, inspired by the life of Chris “Brolga” Barns, the founder of The Kangaroo Sanctuary in Central Australia.
Cast & Their Roles
l Ryan Corr as Chris Masterman. Based loosely on “Chris Brolga” Barns, Corr plays an exTV personality (weatherman) whose life takes an unexpected turn.
l Lily Whiteley as
Charlie. An Indigenous girl (about 11-12 years old) who forms a bond with Chris after his accident. This is a big screen debut role for her.
l Deborah Mailman as Rosie (supporting role). Known for many strong performances, she brings depth to the ensemble.
l Rachel House as Jesse . She plays one of the locals Chris encounters.
l Brooke Satchwell as Liz. Another member of the community who interacts with Chris and Charlie.
l Ernie Dingo, Wayne Blair, Rick Donald,
Rarriwuy Hick, Roy Billing, Trisha MortonThomas also feature in supporting roles, bringing local favour and depth.
Plot Summary
Chris Masterman, a former TV weatherman, is travelling to Broome when his journey derails — literally — after a car accident on the outskirts of a remote town outside Alice Springs. Stranded there, he crosses paths with Charlie, a young Indigenous girl, and together they begin caring for a joey orphaned by the
WHO TO CALL IN AN EMERGENCY
Know who to call when you’re in need!
‘‘IF YOU NEED IMMEDIATE ASSISTANCE PLEASE CALL 000’’
assistance due to a food or tsunami, damage from storms, wind or fallen trees:
accident.
What starts with that one joey expands into a mission: rescue and rehabilitate young, injured joeys, and more broadly, connect with a remote Outback community. Through this, Chris is forced to re-examine his life, fnd purpose, and build unexpected friendships and understanding. Meanwhile, Charlie’s presence helps guide Chris not only in the practical work of animal rescue but in reconciling with Indigenous culture, land, and identity.
The emotional core lies in this unlikely partnership, the mentoring, and mutual growth against the backdrop of rugged landscapes, wildlife rescue, and cultural exchange. It isn’t just about the cute joeys (though those are a draw), but also about community, responsibility, and healing.
Interesting Facts / Behind the Scenes
l The flm is inspired by the true story of Chris “Brolga” Barns, who founded the Kangaroo Sanctuary near Alice Springs. But the flmmakers have made clear that some events are fctionalised for dramatic arc.
l Filming locations include Alice Springs (and its surrounds) in the Northern Territory, as well as Sydney. These locations help capture both the outback beauty and contrasts of city life.
l The production has strong local involvement: many locals (as extras and crew) were employed during flming. The Northern Territory Government provided funding (about AUD $900,000) via Screen Territory, contributing to both cultural and
economic support locally.
l The run time is about 107 minutes
l The flm features Indigenous voices and culture in its story, which is signifcant in the Australian context — both in representation and as part of the thematic heart of the flm.
Assessment & Suitability for Australian Audiences
Kangaroo feels like a flm made with a deep afection for the landscape, the animals, and Australian identity. For families, animal lovers, and anyone interested in stories that combine nature, Indigenous culture, and personal growth, this is likely to hit the mark. The performances are solid, particularly given the challenge of balancing the predictable structure of “animal rescue + redemption” with genuine emotional stakes. Some viewers may anticipate the arcs (they’re not terribly surprising), but the setting, the relationships, and the charm of the animals carry it well.
Given the PG rating and general tone, it’s well suited for younger audiences (not too scary), though some emotional moments (injury, loss) may need parental guidance. It also ofers an opportunity for discussion: wildlife conservation, respect for Indigenous perspectives, caring for animals, meaning of home.
Final Thoughts
Kangaroo (2025) doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it taps into what works: a heartfelt true-inspired story, strong Australian landscape and animal presence, solid cast, and themes of connection and redemption. It’s likely to become one of those flms that families will enjoy together, and which contributes to the growing number of Australian flms that foreground Indigenous voices, wildlife, and local communities. If you’re looking for something uplifting, charming, and distinctly “us” (land, animals, people), Kangaroo is worth the ticket.
PUZZLES
TIME FOR TRIVIA
Place the digits 1 to 9 in the blue squares, so that all 6 equations are correct. Multiplication and/or division are performed rst, in whichever order they appear –followed by addition and/or subtraction, in whichever order they appear.
WHICH WORDS
1 EXEMPLAR
(a) A model to be copied
(b) Damages awarded to a plaintiff
(c) An anecdote designed to point out a moral
2 FLAMBOYANT
(a) Scandalous (b) Extroverted and consciously theatrical (c) Brilliantly illuminated
3 LUCUBRATE
(a) To oil or grease
(b) To study laboriously, at night
(c) To bring good luck to
4 NOTABILIA
(a) A system of graphic symbols
(b) Noteworthy things
(c) An official authorised to certify documents
5 POTABLE
(a) That may be true
(b) Fit for drinking
(c) Powerful
1 Which one of the following words means “the lowest or most unsuccessful point in a situation”? (a) Enmity (b) Nadir (c) Avarice (d) Knell
2 What is the nickname of the Queensland Women’s representative cricket team? (a) Breakers (b) Meteors (c) Cyclones (d) Fire
3 Which chemical element has the symbol, Ti? (a) Silicon (b) Tin (c) Titanium (d) Uranium
4 Azerbaijan shares its southernmost land border with which country? (a) Armenia (b) Iraq (c) Syria (d) Iran
5 Gareth Thomas is best known for representing Wales in which sport? (a) Rugby Union (b) Cricket (c) Soccer (d) Rugby League
6 The large explosion known as the Tunguska Event occurred during which decade? (a) 1910s (b) 1930s (c) 1900s (d) 1940s
WEEKLY CROSSWORD
BEST ON THE BOX
SATURDAY
HEALTHY,
WEALTHY & WISE
SEVEN, 7pm
New host Chrissie Swan could not be more excited to be bringing this lifestyle staple back to viewers after almost three decades o -air, gushing: “When I got the call, it took me all of ve seconds to say yes!” An avid fan of the series that launched the TV careers of Iain Hewitson, Tonia Todman and Ross Greenwood in the ’90s, Swan is leading a fresh team of presenters who will share their expertise in style, food, home, money, health and travel. The next-generation cast includes Real Housewives of Melbourne alum Chyka Keebaugh, content creator Ash Wicks (aka jampikelets) and the “Wolf of Wok Street”, Vincent Yeow Lim. It’s a happy homecoming for this beloved format.
FRIDAY, September 26
(2)
6.00 News. 9.00 ABC News Mornings. 10.00 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (PGl, R) 10.30 The Paci c. 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
SUNDAY I, JACK WRIGHT
ABC TV, 9.10pm
When this greed-driven family melodrama premiered six weeks ago, we mentioned that making a chart to keep track of the extended Wright clan would be wise. At the time, it was tongue-in-cheek advice, but as events have unfolded, it’s become almost completely necessary. Now it’s time to get your notebooks out for tonight’s nale, as the challenge of patriarch Jack’s (Trevor Eve) will reaches the courts and everyone’s darkest secrets are dragged into the open.
Nikki Amuka-Bird delivers a powerhouse performance as Sally, Jack’s third wife and widow, who’s ghting on multiple fronts at once. As the trial unfolds, DCI Morgan (Harry Lloyd) inches closer to nding Jack’s killer, but has he got it right?
THURSDAY
JIM
nitely part of his appeal to audiences, but makes his allure to TV networks something of a mystery. Now based in California, even Je eries himself is confounded by the level of swearing allowed on the box Down Under. The 1% host is joined on stage in Melbourne by a lineup of his favourite stand-up comedians in this six-part series, musing on all manner of hot-button topics –from parenting and practical jokes to going gluten free and why you should never Google yourself. Tonight, it’s adopted Aussie Arj Barker, Mel Buttle, Canadian comic Glenn Wool and Nikki Osborne in the spotlight.
6.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Gardening Australia. Jane Edmanson explores a well designed courtyard.
8.30 Professor T. (Ma) Professor T helps the police nd out who left a woman badly burned and in a coma.
9.15 Hard Quiz. (PGs, R) Presenter Tom Gleeson grills four self-declared experts in a comedic quiz show.
9.50 Mother And Son. (PGdl, R) Maggie falls for an activities director on a holiday.
10.35 The Assembly: Richard Roxburgh. (PG, R)
11.20 Silent Witness. (Mal, R)
12.20 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Amazing Railway Adventures With Nick Knowles: Italy. (PGal, R) Nick Knowles explores Italy.
8.25 Living Black. (R) Celebrates the 50th anniversary of SBS.
9.25 Lost Treasures Of Egypt: Secrets Of The Megatombs. (PG)
10.25 SBS World News Late.
10.55 Catch Me A Killer. (Malv)
11.50 Pray For Blood. (MA15+av, R)
1.30 The U.S. And The Holocaust. (Mav, R)
3.45 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Morning Programs. 9.30 BBC News At Six. 10.00 The
Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Sex: A Bonkers History. 9.25 Sex Actually With Alice Levine. 10.20 The Big Sex Talk. 10.50 Homeland. 12.50am Letterkenny. 2.20 NHK World English News.
6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30.
7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs.
8.30 MOVIE: Jerry Maguire. (1996, Mls, R) A sports agent has a moral epiphany which costs him his job and his ancée. He resolves to rebuild his career with the one athlete who stayed loyal to him and a colleague who believed in him. Tom Cruise, Cuba Gooding Jr, Renée Zellweger.
11.30 GetOn Extra. A look at the weekend’s best racing.
12.00 The Front Bar. (Ml, R)
2.00 The Agenda Setters. (R)
3.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 Rugby League. NRL. First preliminary nal. Melbourne Storm v Cronulla Sharks.
9.45 NRL Finals Post-Match.
A post-match NRL wrap-up of the rst preliminary nal, with expert analysis and player interviews.
10.45 Craig Bellamy: Inside The Storm. (Ml) Pro les Craig Bellamy, one of Australian sport’s greatest coaches and leaders.
12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R) Hosted by Ben Shephard.
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Postcards. (PG)
VICELAND (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 And Friends. 2.40 Pop Paper City. 3.00 Play School. 4.10 Andy’s Aquatic Adventures. 4.25 Super Monsters. 5.20 Mojo Swoptops. 5.45 Kangaroo Beach. 7.30 Good Game Spawn Point. 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 Children’s Programs. 8.00 Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge. 9.00 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family. 10.00 Bewitched. 10.30 Jeannie. 11.00 The West Wing. Noon My Way. 12.15 MOVIE: Infamously In Love. (2022, PG) 2.00 Golden Girls. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 Jeannie. 6.00
Animal Rescue. 2.30 Weekender. 3.00 The Great Australian Doorstep. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Animal Rescue. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30
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 Greek couple look for a fresh start.
8.40 The Brighter Side. Jordy and Logan save for their dream trip. Adam cooks smart. The team provides tips on scams and slow cookers. 9.10 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Celebrity panellists compete to see who can remember the most about events of the week.
10.10 10’s
9GO! (83) 6am Sun ower. Continued. (1970, PG, Italian) 6.35 The Movie Show. 7.10 The Emperor’s Club. (2002, PG) 9.05 The Movie Show. 9.35 Clockwatchers. (1997, PG) 11.20 Intolerable Cruelty. (2003) 1.10pm Hive. (2021, M, Albanian) 2.40 The Movie Show. 3.15 The Company. (2003, PG) 5.20 Bicycle Thief. (1948, PG, Italian) 6.55 A Hard Day’s Night. (1964, PG) 8.30 True Grit. (2010, M) 10.35 Girl America. (2024, Czech) 12.40am The Big Lebowski. (1998, MA15+) 2.50 Late Programs. COMEDY (52) 7MATE (64) SBS MOVIES (32) 6am
TARGET TIME
A S D
B A R
W O H
Today’s target: 20 words average 25 words good 30+ words excellent
Find words of four letters or more. Every word must include the centre letter and each letter is used once only. Find at least one nine-letter word. No colloquial or foreign words, capitalised nouns, apostrophes, hyphens. No verbs or plural words ending in ‘s’. Solution list is not exhaustive. Ref: Macquarie Dictionary
STARS & PUZZLES
ASTROLOGY with Joanne Madeline Moore
ARIES (Mar 21 - Apr 19)
It’s an intense week for Rams! Mars (your ruling planet) moves into Scorpio on Monday and squares Pluto on Wednesday. Which could amp up your control-freak tendencies and magnify your compulsive side. You’re determined to win an argument or solve a problem but don’t play power games and step on other people’s toes in the process. And avoid getting stuck in a rut. You’ll find less confrontation and more cooperation will get you where you want to go.
TAURUS (Apr 20 - May 20)
Monday’s Solar Eclipse energises your leisure and friendship zones so it’s a wonderful week to host a party, attend a concert, take up a new hobby or make a new friend. But then Wednesday’s Mars/Pluto square could stir up old problems with a work colleague or loved one. Patience, understanding and some deft diplomacy will see you through. Your mantra is from birthday great, writer F. Scott Fitzgerald: “Never confuse a single defeat with a final defeat.”
GEMINI (May 21 - June 20)
The Solar Eclipse suggests a fresh start on the domestic front, as you entertain at home or tackle a DIY project. Mercury is moving through your leisure zone, so sharing a sport or hobby with a loved one brings mutual benefits. But don’t promise more time and effort than you can actually deliver. Attached Twins – plan a romantic rendezvous with your sweetheart. Unhappily single? You could be introduced to your future partner through a relative or family friend.
CANCER (June 21 - July 22)
The week starts with a Partial Lunar Eclipse in Virgo which heightens emotions and amplifies sensitivities. Then Wednesday looks tricky, as the Mars/Pluto square stirs up conflict, secrets and dramas. Remember it’s Equinox week, when day and night are of equal length. Time to bring more harmony and balance into your busy world! Be inspired by fellow Cancerian, the Dalai Lama: “A loving atmosphere in your home is the foundation of your life.”
LEO (July 23 - Aug 22)
Leo is ruled by the Sun, and Lions can expect a complicated week! It starts with the tail end of a Solar Eclipse, signalling a fresh start (especially financially). Then the Sun transits into Libra and opposes Neptune, which can lead to confusion, misunderstandings and mistakes. Then – on Wednesday – the Sun trines Uranus and Pluto, which boosts individuality, inspiration and creativity, plus passionate communication and purposeful transformation. Go Cats!
VIRGO (Aug 23 - Sep 22)
The week starts with the Solar Eclipse in Virgo, so it’s a good week to plan, organise, clean, tidy, declutter and detox. Plus – with Venus also in your sign – it’s the perfect time to update your wardrobe, get a new hairstyle or launch a personal project. But nebulous Neptune opposes the Sun on Tuesday, so beware dubious information and fake news. Your motto for the week? Be patient, do your research, and look to the future with a flexible long-term plan.
LIBRA (Sep 23 - Oct 22)
This week is all about bringing more balance and harmony into your hectic world, as we celebrate the Equinox (when the Sun transits into Libra, and day and night are of equal length). With Mercury also visiting your sign, it’s time to tap into your personal creativity. So, your motto for the moment is from fellow Libran, legendary stage actress Sarah Bernhardt: “Life begets life. Energy creates energy. It is by spending oneself that one becomes rich.”
SCORPIO (Oct 23 - Nov 21)
On Monday mighty Mars moves into your sign, which will help you approach challenges in a more direct and proactive way. And the tail end of the Solar Eclipse encourages you to network with colleagues and talk through issues with friends. Wednesday looks challenging, as the Mars/Pluto square boosts stubbornness and encourages power struggles. But the Sun/Pluto trine could see you emerge from a difficult situation like a Phoenix rising from the ashes!
SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 - Dec 21)
Monday’s Partial Solar Eclipse signifies a fresh start at work as you reorganise your daily routine, start a new job or launch an exciting project. Wednesday’s Mars/Pluto square could be problematic but smart Sagittarians will sail through – as long as you’re not ridiculously rash or unreasonably argumentative (especially involving complicated issues in your local community). Remember it’s Equinox week – so try to relax, reboot and rebalance.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22 - Jan 19)
Wednesday is a day that could soar or crash, depending on your attitude. If you are a bossy and controlling Capricorn, then expect a fiery drama involving friends, groups or finances. If you are flexible and maintain your sense of humour, then it will soon settle down. You’ll feel incredibly curious at work as you shake off the mental cobwebs and get passionate about a proposed overseas trip, an online project or an exciting new international connection.
AQUARIUS (Jan 20 - Feb 18)
The Sun/Uranus trine activates your aspirations zone, so it’s time to be bold, brave, inventive and adventurous! You’ll also feel like displaying your bohemian nature and expressing your eccentric views – but don’t expect everyone to appreciate your quirky and rather chaotic ways. Your motto is from the late, real-life Superman (and birthday great) Christopher Reeve: “Either you decide to stay in the shallow end of the pool, or you go out in the ocean.”
PISCES (Feb 19 - Mar 20)
Close relationships and joint ventures are set to improve, as Venus and the Solar Eclipse activate your partnership zone. But Tuesday’s nebulous Sun/Neptune opposition could temporarily scramble your inner compass and blow you off course, especially involving creative projects and financial matters. You need to dream inspiring dreams and set long-term goals … and then draw up a detailed plan to follow. Daydreaming will only get you halfway there!
Ready to Rock These School Holidays? Crack Open a 200-Million-Year-Old Mystery!
Jef Gibbs
Families looking for a unique adventure these school holidays can head to Tamborine Mountain, where history, geology, and good old-fashioned fun collide at Thunderbird Park. From uncovering ancient volcanic treasures at the world’s largest Thunderegg and Crystal Mine to operating real diggers at Dig IT, kids (and parents) are guaranteed an unforgettable day out.
Unearth Ancient Treasures at the Thunderegg Crystal Mine
Step into the role of a modern-day explorer at the Thunderegg and Crystal Mine, where visitors can fossick for their very own geological marvels. Formed in volcanic lava over 200 million years ago, thundereggs often conceal stunning agate, quartz, and dazzling crystals inside.
The thrill lies in the fnd: fossickers of all ages can dig, collect, and crack open their discoveries right on site to reveal the sparkling secrets within.
The September school holidays bring perfect digging conditions, making this the ideal time to unearth prehistoric wonders. Afterwards, the adventure continues at the world-famous Rock Shop, where shelves are lined with raw crystals, polished stones, and keepsakes ranging from beginner-friendly treasures to collector’s gems.
Where: Thunderegg Crystal Mine –Thunderbird Park, 639 Tamborine Mountain Road, Tamborine Mountain
Phone: 07 5545 7900
Bookings: Thunderbird Park: Thunderegg Fossicking Dig It! The Ultimate Dirt-Loving Adventure
Right next door, the fun gets bigger, louder, and a whole lot muddier at Dig IT, Australia’s frst and only mini-excavator park. Since launching just over two years ago, more than 200,000 visitors have swapped playground swings for heavy machinery, climbing into real 1.7-tonne CAT mini-excavators. Under the guidance of Dig IT’s legendary Blue Crew , kids don hard hats and high-vis vests before stepping into their roles as mini construction workers.
The action unfolds across four adventure zones:
• Dig Zone – Move mountains of dirt.
• Claw & Croc Zone –Lift tyres and snatch up sneaky ‘crocs’.
• Demolition Zone –
Oyster reef restoration exhibition opening at Grafton Regional Gallery
Robert Heyward
A unique exhibition celebrating the cultural and environmental importance of oyster reefs will open at Grafton Regional Gallery on Saturday 27 September
Knock down walls of blocks with one mighty swing.
• RC Zone – Operate state-of-the-art remotecontrol dump trucks, excavators, and loaders. Parents can ride shotgun to guide younger operators, making Dig IT a family experience packed with teamwork, laughter, and a little healthy competition. Where: Dig IT –Thunderbird Park, Tamborine Mountain Road, Tamborine Mountain
Phone: 1800 00 DIGIT Email: info@digit.com.
au Bookings: Dig IT –Thunderbird Park The Best Day Out You Didn’t Know You Needed
Whether you’re cracking open ancient treasures at the Thunderegg Mine or scooping dirt with a real excavator at Dig IT, Thunderbird Park ofers an unbeatable mix of education, adventure, and hands-on fun. These school holidays, it’s time to roll up your sleeves, grab a hard hat, and get ready to rock.
Bidhiinja: restoring our oyster reefs explores the forgotten history of oyster reefs in New South Wales and highlights the restoration work underway to bring these fragile ecosystems back to life. Once a dominant feature of Australia’s coastline, oyster reefs have declined dramatically, with an estimated 85% of shellfsh reefs lost globally — more than any other marine habitat.
The interactive exhibition invites visitors to learn about the past, present and future of oyster reefs, with handson experiences such as examining midden remains, turning a wheel to reveal the components of a healthy ecosystem, and exploring the art and
design of oyster shells.
Blending First Nations knowledge, western science and design, Bidhiinja also features striking illustrations by Yaegl woman and exhibition artist Frances Belle Parker.
A local perspective
Grafton Regional Gallery Director Dr Jane Kreis said she is excited to bring the exhibition to the Clarence Valley community.
“We live in such a pristine, beautiful environment in the Clarence Valley, and many of us enjoy our coastal beaches and towns frequently. Bidhiinja is a great opportunity for us to learn about a fragile marine habitat and how we can support it. I’m excited about people engaging with art and science in this exhibition and experiencing it through the creative lens of Clarence Valley artist Frances Belle Parker.”
Exhibition details
• Opening celebration:
3pm, Saturday 27 September
• Special event: Oysters and Sparkling with a Side of Science – 2pm, Saturday 8 November
• On display: until Sunday 23 November 2025
• Venue: Grafton Regional Gallery, 158 Fitzroy Street, Grafton The exhibition opens alongside Beyond the River (curated by Frances Belle Parker), Ken Done is My Dolly Parton: Paintings by Leona DeBolt, and Speaking in Colour: Ken Done Bidhiinja is presented by the Australian National Maritime Museum in collaboration with NSW Department of Primary Industries through the NSW Oyster Reef Restoration Project. The touring exhibition is proudly funded by the NSW Government’s Marine Estate Management Strategy. For more information, visit graftongallery.nsw. gov.au
RBA Cautious Despite Confidence on Inflation
Jef Gibbs
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has signalled it is close to winning the battle against post-pandemic infation, but experts warn a September cash rate cut remains unlikely.
Speaking in Sydney this week, RBA Assistant Governor Sarah Hunter said the central bank was “almost there” in achieving its dual mandate of price stability and sustainable employment.
“We have been really trying to bring infation back down, starting with the cash rate hikes a couple of years ago,” Ms Hunter said. “We’ve put through three cash rate cuts this year and in the context of the labour market and our mandate, we also think that we’re pretty close to full employment.”
Market expectations muted
Expectations for a September rate cut were already subdued, with the Australian Stock Exchange’s rate indicator last week pricing the chance at just 12%.
Analysts note that the RBA is still weighing key economic data before its 30 September board meeting.
While June quarter GDP showed stronger-thanexpected growth, the decision will also hinge on August labour market data and the monthly Consumer Price Index (CPI).
Although the RBA does not place heavy reliance on the monthly CPI, it will still want confrmation that infation is tracking within its forecasts.
Growth surprises, but
caution remains
The economy grew by 0.6% in the June quarter and 1.8% over the year, surpassing the bank’s expectations of 1.6%.
Much of the growth was driven by households, which almost matched government spending as a key driver of activity.
Ms Hunter acknowledged that the GDP fgures “likely caught some
people out,” particularly given subdued consumer spending earlier in the year.
However, she said risks to the outlook remain balanced. “We’re certainly monitoring China, and we’re certainly looking very closely at the labour markets and how the pick-up in private demand sits against what might be some moderation in the non-market parts of the economy,” she said.
Employment growth in certain industries has slowed sharply this year, though the RBA expects job creation to broadly track population growth in coming years.
Relief for households
For mortgage holders, the three rate cuts delivered so far in 2025 have already provided some relief.
Loan repayments have eased, while households are beginning to feel the
beneft of wage growth fnally outpacing infation.
Still, Ms Hunter signalled that the central bank would prefer to see more sustained stability before moving on rates again.
Looking ahead
The Commonwealth Bank, Australia’s largest lender, is forecasting just one further cut this cycle, likely in November. Such a move would take the cash rate to 3.35% – the lowest level in more than two and a half years.
That would mark four cuts in 2025, easing the pressure after a two-year infation fght and four years of unrelenting tightening.
The RBA has three policy meetings remaining this year, leaving the door open for more action, but for now, September appears too soon for another move.
Hot Property: Suburbs Where Homes Are Selling Fast
Robert Heyward
Homes across Australia are moving of the market at record speed, with new data highlighting the suburbs where properties are selling in just weeks.
PropTrack research shows Townsville in Queensland is leading the charge, with buyers snapping up homes faster than almost anywhere else in the country. Local demand, afordability, and strong regional growth are driving the rapid turnover.
Sydney and Melbourne also have pockets of high demand, with afordable
outer-ring suburbs among the fastest-selling. In Sydney, areas such as Blacktown and parts of the
south-west are attracting keen interest from frsthome buyers and investors. In Melbourne, growth
corridors to the north and west are seeing properties sell in record time.
Regional Australia is also
in the spotlight. Alongside Townsville, lifestyle and afordability hotspots in Victoria, New South Wales and Tasmania are seeing strong buyer competition.
Agents say a shortage of listings is pushing buyers to act quickly, with many properties selling after only a handful of inspections.
Industry experts note that afordability continues to be a key factor, with regions and outer-metro areas outperforming premium suburbs. “Buyers are chasing value, and that’s what’s driving quick sales in these areas,” one
property analyst said. For the Northern Rivers, the trend has echoes locally. While the region is not among the national hotspots, agents report that family homes in popular towns like Grafton, Ballina and Lismore are often selling within weeks when priced well. Lifestyle buyers relocating from cities continue to underpin demand, particularly in coastal areas. With spring selling season now underway, the race for afordable homes looks set to intensify, keeping competition high in fast-moving markets.
Grafton (shown), Ballina and Lismore are often selling within weeks when priced well.
How to Survive Your First 100 Days in Business
Jef Gibbs
The frst 100 days can make or break a small business – and without the right guidance, many won’t survive. That’s the warning from Geof Silk, one of NSW’s most experienced business advisors, who has coached hundreds of start-ups through the state’s Business Connect program over the past eight years.
Business Connect, a free government-funded advisory service, is set to be axed on 30 September, raising concerns that many new business owners will be left without support. “Fail to prepare properly and the frst 100 days can quickly spiral into stress, cash fow problems and dwindling sales,” Silk says. “But put the right steps in place and you’ll lay the foundations for sustainable growth. None of what I’ve described comes naturally to frsttime business owners,
which is why programs like Business Connect are vital.”
Three keys to survival
From his years of experience, Silk says survival often hinges on three critical factors: planning, cash fow, and customers.
1. Plan like your future depends on it
“Too many owners rush
in without analysing their model: what they’ll sell, who to, and how.
A feasibility study is essential,” he says.
He recalls a client who spent 15 months preparing while still in full-time work. By identifying a market gap for a women’s grooming device, arranging manufacturing in China, and securing
a TV personality for promotion, the client sold out an entire shipping container of stock in just two weeks.
2. Nail your numbers
“Cash fow is the oxygen of a business. Run out of it and you won’t survive,” Silk warns. He recommends forecasting revenue and expenses and keeping three months of
operating costs in reserve.
One auto repair client was losing money on unpaid travel. After adjusting his pricing and systems, the business turned proftable within a quarter and is now thriving.
3. Find and focus on your customers
“Unless you defne your customer segment and target it directly, you’ll fall short,” he says.
Silk recalls a food vendor working seven-day weeks without proft. By introducing pre-orders for nearby ofces, sales tripled, and he cut back to fve days. “Success often comes from working smarter, not harder.”
Why support matters
Silk believes programs like Business Connect are often the diference between survival and failure.
1 Test your idea frst Run a feasibility check – know what you’ll sell, who to, and how you’ll reach them.
2 Plan for cash fow Forecast monthly income and expenses, and keep three months of operating costs in reserve.
3 Know your customer Defne your ideal customer segment and target them directly –don’t try to be everything to everyone.
4 Work smarter, not harder Look for ways to streamline operations, like pre-orders or delivery partnerships, to maximise return on efort.
“Through Business Connect, I’ve helped hundreds of owners sharpen their plans, manage cash fow, and grow sales. Without it, 850,000 NSW small businesses will lose access to vital advice. I urge the government to reconsider.” Your First 100 Days: 5 Must-Do Steps
5 Seek expert advice Don’t go it alone. Tap into professional support programs, mentors, or networks early on.
ASX Rises as Wall Street Rally and Tech News Lift Investor Confidence
and potential for collaboration, even among competitors.
The Australian share market closed higher on Thursday, buoyed by a strong rally on Wall Street and fresh optimism from global technology stocks.
The benchmark ASX 200 gained ground throughout the session, following overnight gains in the United States where investor sentiment was lifted by positive earnings results and a surge in major tech shares.
Wall Street’s strength came as chipmaker Nvidia announced plans to invest in rival Intel, a move seen as bolstering confdence in the semiconductor sector. The news sent US markets higher, with the Nasdaq and S&P 500 both advancing. Analysts said the deal was symbolic of the industry’s strength
Tech and resources drive local gains
Technology stocks were among the best performers on the ASX, refecting the international trend. Companies with exposure to artifcial intelligence, cloud computing and software all enjoyed steady gains. Market watchers said enthusiasm for the sector was helping ofset broader concerns about interest rates and slowing global growth.
Resource stocks also posted solid performances, with iron ore prices holding frm and energy companies benefting from a lift in oil prices.
Mining giants BHP and Rio Tinto both edged higher, while Woodside Energy gained on the back of stronger crude futures.
Banks were mixed, with some of the big four seeing slight dips as investors weighed ongoing pressure from tighter lending conditions. Still, the broader fnancial sector remained resilient, underpinning the market’s overall advance.
Currency and commodities in focus
The Australian dollar held steady around US66 cents, refecting cautious optimism from traders. Analysts said the currency remained supported by strong commodity demand but capped by expectations the Reserve Bank would hold of on any near-term interest rate cuts.
Gold prices softened slightly, though remained near recent highs, while oil markets were frmer following a lift in US inventories and ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Investor caution remains
While Thursday’s gains provided welcome relief, analysts warned that volatility is likely to remain a feature of markets in the months ahead. Global uncertainty around central bank policy, infation, and geopolitical tensions is expected to keep traders on edge.
Locally, attention now turns to upcoming economic data, including labour market fgures and infation updates, which could shape expectations for the Reserve Bank’s next move.
Market strategists say investors are increasingly focused on sectors that ofer value and resilience in the face of uncertainty. “There is a real appetite for technology exposure, but also a recognition that resources and infrastructure remain core drivers of Australia’s economy,” one analyst
noted.
What it means for local investors
For Northern Rivers investors, the day’s movement refects the global themes currently driving markets. Technology and resources continue to attract strong interest, while defensive plays in healthcare and utilities provide stability.
Financial advisers caution against reacting too strongly to day-to-day swings, urging a longer-term view as markets adjust to a shifting global economy.
The ASX’s climb, driven by tech optimism and resource strength, suggests Australian investors remain cautiously confdent. Yet with key data and Reserve Bank decisions ahead, the coming weeks will likely prove decisive in shaping the market’s direction.
Jef Gibbs
ASX Rises as Wall Street Rally and Tech News Lift Investor Confdence
The Ultimate Travel Guide to Oman
Nestled on the southeastern corner of the Arabian Peninsula, Oman is a land where modernity meets timeless tradition. With its vast deserts, dramatic mountains, turquoise coastline, and ancient forts, Oman ofers travellers an authentic Arabian experience without the overwhelming pace of neighbouring destinations.
From Muscat’s bustling souqs to the tranquil wadis and historic towns, every corner of Oman reveals stories of a nation proud of its heritage yet welcoming to visitors. For travellers seeking beauty, calm, and adventure, Oman is a captivating journey.
Top 5 Places to Visit
• Muscat – The capital city blends modern elegance with tradition. Don’t miss the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and Mutrah Souq.
• Wahiba Sands –Golden dunes stretching endlessly, perfect for desert camping, camel rides, and stargazing.
• Nizwa Fort – A 17thcentury fort ofering insights into Omani history, surrounded by
lively markets famous for silver and spices.
• Jebel Shams – Known as the “Grand Canyon of Arabia,” it ofers breathtaking views and hiking trails.
• Salalah – In the south, this region turns lush and green during the Khareef (monsoon), with waterfalls, frankincense trees, and beaches.
5 Best Deals and How to Save Money
• Use local buses and minibuses for afordable city and regional travel.
• Eat at local cafeterias where shawarma, rice dishes, and tea are inexpensive.
• Camp under the stars wild camping is permitted in many areas, making Oman one of the cheapest safe camping destinations.
• Visit free attractions like beaches, mountain villages, and souqs.
• Travel in small groups —splitting costs for 4WD rentals or guided tours makes adventure trips afordable.
5 Travel Tips
• Respect traditions—dress modestly and avoid public
displays of afection.
• Carry cash as smaller towns may not accept cards.
• Rent a 4WD if planning to explore mountains or deserts.
• Stay hydrated temperatures can soar, particularly inland.
• Fridays are prayer days—many shops and attractions close in the morning.
Best Ways to Get Around
The best way to explore Oman is by car, especially a 4WD for of-road adventures in mountains and deserts. Car rental is straightforward and relatively afordable. In cities, taxis are available
but not metered, so agree on fares beforehand. Longdistance buses connect major towns, and domestic fights operate between Muscat and Salalah for those short on time.
Conclusion
Oman is a destination where authenticity and natural beauty reign supreme. With ancient forts, endless deserts, and welcoming people, it is perfect for travellers seeking both tranquillity and adventure. Visiting Oman feels like stepping into a living postcard—one that you’ll never forget.
Luxury to Budget
• Luxury («««««): International brands like The Chedi Muscat and Al Bustan Palace ofer world-class service, private beaches, and fne dining.
• Mid-range («««–««««): Boutique hotels in Nizwa or desert camps in Wahiba Sands provide comfort with authentic Arabian charm.
• Budget («–««): Guesthouses, hostels, and small hotels in Muscat and beyond ofer basic yet clean rooms for travellers on a budget.
Currency & Budget Considerations
Oman uses the Omani Rial (OMR), one of the strongest currencies in the world. For budget travellers, expect to spend around USD $40–60 daily, covering local food, transport, and basic lodging. Mid-range travellers may spend USD $100–150 per day, while luxury seekers should budget over USD $250 daily, especially if staying in high-end resorts.
Polestar 5
Jef Gibbs
Polestar has unveiled its long-awaited fagship, the 2026 Polestar 5, a sleek grand tourer designed to rival the Porsche Taycan and Audi e-tron GT.
Previewed as the Precept concept in 2020, the Polestar 5 carries forward the brand’s Scandinavian design ethos while delivering serious electric performance credentials. Despite delays caused by COVID and the challenges of developing a high-performance EV, Polestar CEO Michael Lohscheller describes the car as the company’s “brand on wheels.” He emphasises its combination of design, performance, and sustainability, all wrapped into a halo model that is expected to elevate Polestar’s premium standing globally.
Power and Performance
Two dual-motor variants headline the line-up.
l Dual Motor : 550kW and 812Nm, priced from $171,100 before on-road costs.
l Performance : 650kW and a staggering 1015Nm, starting at $193,100
These fgures position the Polestar 5 frmly in the super-sedan territory, delivering breathtaking acceleration and handling to match its competitors from Germany.
Design and Technology
The Polestar 5’s design draws directly from the futuristic Precept concept, with sharp lines, a low-slung stance, and an elegant four-door coupe profle. It embodies Polestar’s minimalist Scandinavian aesthetic,
paired with sustainable materials throughout the cabin. Inside, the focus is on cutting-edge digital tech, intuitive infotainment, and a driver-focused layout. Polestar’s engineers also had to tackle the complex software integration that underpins the vehicle’s performance and driving dynamics, ensuring the fagship delivers both speed and refnement.
Market Position
While the Polestar 5 is unlikely to be a volume seller due to its high price, its importance lies in brand image. Like halo sports cars from Porsche or Audi, this model is designed to draw attention, inspire aspiration, and help position Polestar as
a true premium player.
Lohscheller hinted that lower-powered, more afordable versions could be introduced in future, broadening appeal without diluting the fagship’s halo status.
The Bigger Picture
The arrival of the Polestar 5 demonstrates the brand’s confdence in competing head-to-head with Europe’s best. With EV adoption steadily
rising in Australia, the Polestar 5 serves not only as a statement of intent but also as a bridge to attract buyers to Polestar’s broader range, such as the Polestar 2 and upcoming SUVs.
For now, though, the Polestar 5 will stand as the crown jewel of the brand – a fusion of performance, design, and sustainable luxury that may not top sales charts, but will certainly turn heads.
Scout Terra and Traveller: Tough New 4WDs Could Be Headed for Australia
Jef Gibbs
Australia’s love afair with rugged 4WDs and dualcab utes may soon get a fresh contender, with American brand Scout eyeing our shores. Owned by Volkswagen Group, the reborn marque has unveiled the Terra pickup truck and Traveler SUV, two body-onframe heavyweights designed to blend modern electrifcation with oldschool toughness.
A Brand with Heritage Scout was once a classic American ofroad badge, and its revival aims squarely at the growing demand for capable lifestyle vehicles. Speaking at the IAA show in Munich, Scout Motors CEO Scott Keogh confrmed that while the U.S. and Canada will be the frst markets from 2027–28, Australia is frmly on the radar He acknowledged
Aussies’ passion for ladder-frame SUVs and utes, pointing out our enthusiasm for “outdoors, can-do kind of vehicles” such as the Toyota LandCruiser, Prado, Ford Everest and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport.
Electric and Hybrid Power
The Scout Terra and Traveler will launch with two driveline options: l Fully Electric: Up to
563km range on a single charge.
l Range-Extender
Hybrid: More than 800km range, ofering a bufer for those worried about charging in remote areas.
Both vehicles are expected to feature robust of-road credentials, including body-on-frame construction and fourwheel-drive systems tuned for heavy-duty use. The Terra pick-up will also
boast a 4.5-tonne towing capacity, putting it headto-head with heavyweights like the Ford F-150, Toyota Tundra, Chevrolet Silverado and Ram 1500.
Positioned for Australia
The timing is intriguing. By 2028, electrifed utes and SUVs will be far more common, yet the Australian market will still demand vehicles that can haul caravans, boats,
and farm trailers across long distances. The Scout lineup seems purposebuilt for this environment, ofering electric capability without compromising traditional strengths.
VW Australia has already indicated “incredible interest” in Scout’s arrival, with the potential to slot the models in alongside Amarok and Touareg in showrooms. With their mix of hybrid and EV power, the Terra and Traveler
could challenge Toyota’s upcoming 2026 Prado and Tundra, as well as Ford’s electrifed F-Series.
A Global Gamble
Scout’s re-entry is a bold play by Volkswagen, who aims to create a dedicated U.S.-centric brand capable of rivalling Tesla, Rivian, and legacy truck makers. While success isn’t guaranteed, the potential appeal to Australian buyers—where lifestyle 4WDs dominate sales charts—cannot be underestimated. If confrmed for Down Under, the Scout Terra and Traveler could provide Aussie drivers with a fresh alternative: Americaninspired muscle, backed by German engineering, with electrifed powertrains ready for the outback.
One thing is certain: the arrival of Scout would shake up Australia’s ute and SUV market in ways we haven’t seen since the frst wave of U.S. imports landed here.
Scandinavian Design Meets Electric Performance
Scout Terra
Jef Gibbs
Young children across New South Wales will soon have access to a free needle-free infuenza vaccine, with the Minns Labor Government confrming the rollout of the intranasal spray for children aged two to under fve.
The program is set to begin ahead of the 2026 winter fu season, ofering parents an alternative to the traditional injectable
vaccine in a bid to boost immunisation rates among young children.
A Safer, Easier Option
The new FluMist nasal spray has been widely used overseas for many years and is currently undergoing regulatory approval in Australia. Delivered via a quick spray into each nostril, it provides the same protection as existing fu vaccines for this age
Free Nasal Spray Flu Vaccine for Children Under Five Measles Alert Issued for Sydney Airport and Northern NSW
Jef Gibbs
NSW Health has issued a measles alert after confrming a case in a traveller who was infectious while visiting several locations in Northern NSW and Sydney, including fights from Perth to Sydney and Sydney to the Gold Coast. The case recently returned from Western Australia, where an active outbreak of measles is underway.
Exposure Locations
People who were at the following locations should monitor for symptoms of measles. These locations do not pose an ongoing risk: Friday 12 September 2025
l Virgin Australia fight VA572, Perth to Sydney (T2), departed 12:00am, arrived 6:29am
l Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (T2), 6:30 –7:00am
l Virgin Australia fight VA505, Sydney (T2) to Gold Coast, departed 7:08am, arrived 8:31am
l Gold Coast Airport, main terminal baggage and arrivals area, 8:30 –9:20am Monday 15 September 2025
l Tweed Valley Hospital Emergency Department, 9:30 – 11:00am
group.
Minister for Health Ryan Park said the new method could make a real diference:
“This program provides an accessible and convenient needle-free option, and we expect it will increase uptake. Vaccination is the best protection against serious infuenza illness, and this innovation will help relieve pressure on our hospitals during winter.” The vaccine will be
available through general practitioners, and may also enter the private market for other age groups depending on approval.
Why It Maters
Children under fve are at higher risk of severe illness from infuenza. So far in 2025, children aged 0–4 have accounted for 13 per cent of fu notifcations in NSW , with more than 3,000 emergency department
presentations and over 600 hospital admissions in this age group alone.
NSW Chief Health Ofcer Dr Kerry Chant welcomed the new approach:
“Infuenza is a serious illness that can worsen chronic conditions or even be fatal. Even healthy children can develop severe complications. This nasal spray will give families a safe, efective way to protect their children and communities.”
What’s Next
The new program will roll out across NSW ahead of the 2026 fu season, aiming to improve vaccination rates and reduce the burden of infuenza on young children, families, and the health system. For more information on vaccination and NSW immunisation programs, visit health.nsw.gov.au/ immunisation
Spring Into Mental Wellness: Your Journey Starts Here
Robert Heyward
Health Advice
North Coast Population and Public Health Director, Dr Valerie Delpech, said anyone who attended the above locations at those times should remain alert.
“Measles is a vaccinepreventable disease that is spread through the air when someone who is infectious coughs or sneezes,” Dr Delpech said.
Symptoms include:
l Fever
l Sore eyes
l Runny nose
l Cough
l Followed three to four days later by a red, blotchy rash spreading from the head and face down the body.
Symptoms can appear up to 18 days after exposure, meaning those potentially exposed should monitor their health until Wednesday 3 October 2025
Dr Delpech urged anyone developing symptoms to call ahead before visiting a GP or hospital to avoid exposing others.
Vaccination Reminder
NSW Health is reminding the community to ensure they are up to date with measles vaccinations.
l Anyone born after 1965 should have received two doses of the measlesmumps-rubella (MMR)
vaccine.
l The vaccine is free in NSW for eligible children (at 12 and 18 months) and for adults born after 1965 who have not had two doses.
l Additional doses are safe and recommended for those unsure of their vaccination history, especially prior to overseas travel.
l Children as young as six months can receive the MMR vaccine if travelling internationally.
“This should be a reminder for everyone to check that they are protected against measles, which is highly infectious,” Dr Delpech said.
As warmer days return and the North Coast bursts into bloom, Mental Health Month is a timely reminder to tend to our wellbeing with the same care we give our gardens. Small, steady actions—taken daily—can make a big diference.
Small Steps, Big Impact
Spring isn’t just for clearing cupboards. It’s a chance to refresh routines: step outside for a few minutes each morning, reconnect with friends and family, try a new hobby, or simply notice the seasons changing around you. Everyone’s path is diferent; what helps one person may not suit another. The key is fnding what feels right for you.
Free Support When You Need It
If you’re looking for professional help, Healthy Hub Connect ofers free mental health support across the region—from Byron Bay to Port Macquarie and everywhere in between —funded by the North Coast Primary Health Network. The service uses a “no wrong door” approach, so you can reach out in the way that’s most
comfortable for you and be guided to the right care.
Services
Available
l Men’s Wellbeing Matters – Targeted suicide prevention support for men.
l Low Intensity Mental Health Service – Gentle, practical strategies for people who need early support.
l Youth Severe and Complex Mental Health Service (YES) – Specialised care for young people with more complex needs.
l Choice of Mind – Clinical care coordination to help you navigate services and supports.
l Healthy Minds Psychological Therapies – Professional counselling delivered by qualifed practitioners. Services are delivered from permanent hubs in Byron Bay, Cofs Harbour and Port Macquarie, with outreach locations extending care into surrounding communities.
Geting Connected Is Easy
Starting the conversation is simple:
•Email: healthyhubconnect@each. com.au
WHATS ON THE MENU
Look, we all want to be Nigella on a Tuesday night, but most of us end up closer to Gordon Ramsay yelling at a saucepan of boiling water. Fear not— this dish is the love child of efciency and indulgence. It’s pasta that looks like it studied abroad in Rome, but secretly it just lives down the street with three packets of sausages and a dairy habit.
This creamy Italian sausage pasta is rich, quick, and guaranteed to seduce even the fussiest eater. One pan, minimal mess, and more cream than a rom-com fnale. It’s the edible equivalent of getting away with not ironing your shirt before work: messy, but still a win.
Ingredients (serves 4 normal humans, or 2 after “just one more” helpings)
l tbsp olive oil
l 500g Italian-style sausages (casing ditched, meat liberated)
l 1 brown onion, diced
l 2 garlic cloves, crushed
l 300ml thickened cream
l 400g short pasta (penne, spirals, or “whatever’s lurking in the back cupboard”)
l 100g baby spinach leaves
l 1/2; cup grated parmesan cheese (plus extra for reckless sprinkling)
l Salt and pepper, to taste
Method
l Boil like you mean it. Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Translation: soft but still with a bit of bite—like your ex at Christmas. Drain, keep a splash of pasta water
I20-Minute Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta
for emergencies.
l Sausage liberation. Heat oil in a big pan. Squeeze sausage meat out of its casing (think Play-Doh for adults) and fry until golden, breaking into chunky bits.
l Onion therapy. Add onion and garlic, cook until fragrant enough to make the neighbours jealous.
l Creamy chaos. Pour in cream, stir, then toss in drained pasta. If it looks dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water until it shimmers like an Instagram flter.
l Green disguise. Stir in spinach until it wilts faster than you at a Sunday market.
l Cheese avalanche. Sprinkle parmesan, stir, taste, and season with salt and pepper.
Tips for Success
l Don’t skimp on parmesan—life’s too short for sad pasta.
l Sausage variety is up to you: spicy, herby, or “mystery favour” all work.
l Leftovers? They reheat beautifully, but let’s be honest—there won’t be any. This pasta is so comforting it should come with a blanket and a therapist. Eat it straight from the pan if you like—no judgement, only admiration.
40m 45m 4
f fruit could talk, citrus would be that loud aunty at family gatherings who wears oversized earrings, kisses you too hard on the cheek, and insists her pavlova is better than yours. This pudding is just like her—sweet, tangy, and impossible to ignore. It’s called Citrus Delicious because Tangy Zesty Hug in a Dish That’ll Make You Question Your Life Choices was too long.
Northern Rivers Citrus Delicious
Now, we’re giving it a Northern Rivers upgrade. Why settle for ordinary lemons when you can have Byron Bay lemons that think they’re infuencers, Lismore limes with an attitude problem, and Murwillumbah mandarins that practically peel themselves? This dessert is part pudding, part custard, part cake—and 100% “hide it from the kids so you don’t have to share.”
Ingredients (serves 6, or 3 citrus addicts with no shame)
l 2 large Northern Rivers lemons, zest and juice
l 1 lime (Casino-grown, preferably with a superiority complex), zest and juice
l 1 mandarin, peeled and juiced (Kyogle sourced are ideal)
l 150g caster sugar
l 2 tbsp butter, softened
l 2 large eggs, separated
l 50g plain four
l 250ml milk
l Extra sugar for dusting (because life is short)
Method
l Preheat & prepare. Oven on at 180°C. Grease a baking dish like it owes you money.
l Whip it real good. Cream butter and sugar until fufy. Think “cloud on a sugar high.”
l Egg-citement. Beat in egg yolks one at a time, then add citrus zest and juices. Warning: citrus may attempt to blind you mid-squeeze. Soldier on.
l Flour power. Stir in four, then slowly add milk until it’s smoother than a Ballina surfer on holiday.
l Foamy fnale. Beat egg whites until stif peaks form (the kind of stif that would make your nan blush). Fold gently into batter.
l Bake the magic. Pour into prepared
dish, set inside a larger tray half-flled with hot water (pudding-inception, if you will). Bake for 40 minutes until golden on top but wobbly underneath—like a dad dancing at a Byron Brewery.
Final Word
Serve with cream, ice cream, or—if you’re feeling reckless—both. This pudding will leave your tongue tingling, your guests grinning, and your fruit bowl stripped bare. Forget boring desserts; this one’s citrus, chaos, and comfort all in a single spoonful.
Prep Cook Serves
RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS
OFF THE RAILS
By Glenn Weir
Cattle Market Report Lismore
A total of 530 cattle were yarded at the Lismore Saleyards on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, with prices showing solid improvement across most classes compared with the previous fortnight’s sale.
Cows Lead the Way
Heavy cows in strong condition sold from $3.56 to $3.88 per kilo
Top price went to Stoneridge
Pastoral, Dobies Bight, with a Brahman cow making $3.88/kg to return $2,542
Secondary cows were well supported, selling between $3.20 and $3.50/kg, while older lines eased back into the $2.20 to $2.80/kg range.
and prime heifers held ground; trade steers attracted the day’s premium.
By category
Bullocks
Casino — Wednesday, 17 September 2025. Competitive bidding at the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange (NRLX) pushed prime cattle to frm–dearer levels across several categories, with the day’s best sale reaching 610.2c/ kg. Total throughput across classes came to 1,066 head for 465 lots, with a combined carcase weight of 356,270 kg returning $1.364 million to vendors.
Market highlights
• Top price: 610.2c/kg (steers)
• Overall average: 382.8c/kg across all classes
• Gross sale value: $1,363,797.51 on 356,270 kg
• Standout performers: Heavy cows
Livestock markets steady with mixed trends across Warwick & District
Warwick – Week ending Friday, 19 September 2025. Numbers were down across both cattle and sheep yardings this week, yet the market delivered mixed signals as buyers adjusted to supply shifts.
A total of 1,175 cattle and 1,102 sheep and lambs were presented. The cattle market held frm to slightly dearer, while the sheep and lamb yarding softened with two major buyers absent.
Catle Market
The cattle sale refected confdence among feedlotters and processors:
• Bulls averaged 336.2c/kg, topping at 398.2c/kg, to return between $1,631–$4,050
• Cows sold strongly, averaging 321.8c/ kg and peaking at 415.2c/kg, making from $1,653–$2,844
• Feeder heifers averaged 359.8c/kg
Well-fnished bullocks drew broad processor interest, selling 306.2–410.2c/ kg and averaging 342.9c/kg. On a dollars-per-head basis, this translated to $1,244–$3,261, averaging $1,760 on the day. Consistent weight and fnish were rewarded, particularly in the bettermuscled drafts.
Bulls
Export bulls were keenly sought, making 264.2–400.2c/kg (avg 365.8c/kg), returning around $1,565–$4,442 per head. Clean, heavier frames drew the strongest competition.
Cows
Cows underpinned the yarding and sold
to a high of 410.2c/kg, equating to $1,251–$2,079
• Feeder steers again set the pace, averaging 459c/kg and topping at 550.2c/kg, to return $1,692–$2,371
• Heifers averaged 358.4c/kg with tops of 434.2c/kg, returning up to $2,855
• Steers lifted, averaging 400.8c/kg, topping at 430.2c/kg, returning from $2,140–$3,638
• Vealer heifers averaged 365.6c/kg, peaking at 412.2c/kg, with returns between $695–$1,112
• Vealer steers sold exceptionally well, averaging 479.5c/kg to a high of 530.2c/kg, returning $953–$1,356
• Yearling heifers averaged 383.5c/kg, topping at 420c/kg, making $1,047–$1,722
• Yearling steers averaged 442.6c/kg and topped at 532.2c/kg, with returns of $1,148–$2,103
Across the yarding, cattle averaged 383.2c/kg or $1,420 per head
Sheep & Lamb Market
The sheep and lamb section saw
Weaner Steers in Demand
Buyers chased good quality weaner steers, which sold from $5.00 to $5.70/ kg
• Kentara’s Angus steers made $5.28/ kg, returning $1,412.
• Mick Melino’s Limousin-cross steer also made $5.28/kg, returning $1,426. Secondary lines generally sold between $4.30 and $5.00/kg, with some plainer types back to $3.50–$4.00/kg
to 412.2c/kg, averaging a solid 354.2c/ kg with per-head returns commonly $1,670, and tops to $3,179 for heavier, well-conditioned lines. A small feature of cows & calves made $1,350–$1,900
Heifers
Prime trade heifers were a highlight, reaching 542.2c/kg and averaging 370.6c/kg. On the day, heifers commonly returned $895–$2,040 per head depending on fnish and weight, with domestic processors active throughout.
Steers
Trade and feeder steers set the pace, selling 158.2–610.2c/kg (avg 492.4c/ kg) and returning $224–$2,333 per head. Lighter, well-bred steers suited to backgrounding drew spirited restocker competition. (A very small, separate pen of light steers quoted on a per-head basis made $80–$85.)
lighter trade stock and ewe-and-lamb units dominate. With fewer processing and export types, values eased:
• Lambs topped at $324, averaging $204.96, down $25/head
• Hoggets slipped sharply, topping at $204 and averaging $142.54, down $100/head
• Ram lambs held frmer, topping at $190 to average $128.36, up $15/ head
• Ewes eased, topping at $222 and averaging $154.26, down $26/head
• Wethers gained ground, topping at $236 and averaging $218.14, up $34/ head
• Ewe & lamb units provided the standout, topping at $398 and averaging $275.57, up $94/unit
The overall sheep and lamb yarding averaged $192.16/head, down $25 from last week.
Pork & Poultry
Pork numbers fell, yet prices improved:
• Sows to $188
Heifers Find Competition
Heifers topped at $4.56/kg, with most of the better-quality pens in the $3.90 to $4.40/kg bracket.
Secondary heifers ranged from $3.30 to $3.70/kg, while a few lighter or plainer types slipped to $2.00 to $2.60/kg
Next Sale
The next sale at the Lismore Saleyards is scheduled for Tuesday, September 30, from 7.30am
Vealers
Limited numbers of vealers presented. Milk and grass vealers sold 220.0–360.0c/kg (avg 333.9c/ kg ), while vealer bulls met a frmer tone at 310.0–496.2c/kg (avg 377.3c/ kg ). Type and presentation remained key to premium bids.
Takeaway
Volume cows anchored the yarding, but it was the trade steers and prime heifers that set the tempo, posting the day’s best cents-perkilo results. With processors and restockers both engaged, wellfnished stock and tidy lightweights each found their lane—pointing to a confdent prime market as spring feed builds.
Source: Ofcial NRLX “Statistics By Stock Type – Prime Cattle, 17 September 2025.”
• Gilts $315–$325
• Pork $171–$314
• Stores $100–$252 Poultry saw a strong lift, with hens to $42, pullets to $60, ducks to $32, and geese to $40
Vendor Highlights
• Dalby High School sold White Sufolk ewe lambs 72.8kg to Thomas Foods for $324
• David Ballard sold Dorper lambs 50.8kg to GR Prime for $260
• Bernie & Alma Haaijer sold Merino lambs of-shears 49kg to Carey Bros for $180
• Julie Kellaway sold Dorper lambs 58.8kg to Leslie Lamb for $280
• Poggio Family Trust sold Dorper lambs up to $275 to multiple buyers.
• Hilton Family sold Aussie White ewe lambs and units to restockers for $245–$260/unit
• Rochedale State High topped the sheep pens with Sufolk ewe-and-lamb units to restockers for $398, and rams to $405
Australians Called to Stand with Struggling Farming Families
Rogers
When natural disasters hit rural Australia, they don’t just devastate paddocks and livestock — they deeply afect the lives of farming families who call the land home.
With the country continuing to battle severe weather events and economic uncertainty, Rural Aid is urging Australians to dig deep and donate to support farming families facing hardship. Whether it’s years of drought, destructive foods or raging bushfres, the impact is both fnancial and emotional. Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said disasters take a toll on the entire household, not just the farm.
“We often talk about the fnancial and physical toll of disasters, but the emotional impact on families is just as signifcant,” Mr Warlters said.
Rural Aid ofers a range of support services to farming families before, during and after disasters. This includes:
•Emergency hay and fodder to keep livestock alive
•Drinking water deliveries for communities cut of from supply
•Financial assistance to relieve immediate pressures
•Mental health and wellbeing support, ensuring families have someone to talk to during their toughest times
By tailoring help to each family’s circumstances, Rural Aid aims to ease the burden and strengthen resilience, so families can keep farming and stay together through adversity.
Mr Warlters said Australians can make a real diference by standing shoulder to shoulder with the people who put food on the nation’s tables.
“By donating today, you’re helping farming families feel seen, supported and less alone,” he said.
“These are the families who feed the nation. They deserve a helping hand to get through.”
To donate and support Rural Aid’s work, visit: www.countrykids.ruralaid. org.au
Farmers Back $1.1 Billion Cleaner Fuels Investment
Ian Rogers
The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has welcomed the Federal Government’s $1.1 billion Cleaner Fuels Program, calling it a landmark step towards building a domestic low-carbon liquid fuels (LCLF) industry.
The program, announced today by Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen, will support the production of renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel. Australian-grown feedstocks such as canola, sorghum, and sugarcane, along with agricultural byproducts, will play a central role in the supply chain.
Agriculture at the Core of Cleaner Fuels
NFF Interim Chief Executive Su McCluskey, who attended the announcement, said the program recognised agriculture’s role in powering Australia’s cleaner fuels future.
“Farmers already supply products that power biofuel industries overseas; this investment will help to support a domestic industry,” Ms McCluskey said.
“It’s not just about cleaner fuels – it’s about creating
jobs, diversifying farm businesses, and ensuring our regions remain at the forefront of Australia’s transition to net zero.”
The NFF has long called for greater domestic biofuels production, noting its 2030 Roadmap to a $100 billion farm sector highlights biofuels as critical to diversifying income streams and strengthening resilience.
Ms McCluskey added that developing a local
industry would also reduce reliance on imported fuels, enhancing Australia’s sovereign energy security.
Industry Leaders
Welcome the Move
GrainGrowers CEO, Shona Gawel, said the announcement represented a major opportunity for growers and the nation.
“Domestic LCLF production can strengthen Australia’s energy security and unlock new economic opportunities. With our
world-class grain sector and established supply chains, we’re well placed to supply this emerging industry.”
CANEGROWERS
CEO, Dan Galligan, said Queensland’s sugar industry was ready to play a leading role.
“Almost half of Queensland’s sugarcane already meets global sustainability benchmarks. With our cane rail network and deep-water ports, we
can shorten supply chains and scale up quickly.
“With sugarcane feedstock alone, Queensland could deliver more than 30% of Australia’s aviation fuel demand. This is about positioning Queensland as the nation’s biofuels hub.”
Towards a National Strategy
The NFF said it looked forward to working with government and members on the forthcoming
National Bioenergy Feedstock Strategy to ensure supply remains sustainable, competitive, and aligned with regional development.
For farmers, the Cleaner Fuels Program represents more than just an environmental initiative –it’s a chance to strengthen markets, reduce risks, and secure new income streams, while helping Australia meet its climate commitments.
Ian
Wet, warm spring triggers barber’s pole worm warning for NSW producers
Ian Rogers
Livestock producers across NSW are being urged to step up monitoring for barber’s pole worm as recent wet and warmer conditions drive a surge in pasture larvae and reinfection risk. The blood-feeding parasite (Haemonchus contortus) targets the stomach lining of sheep, goats, alpacas and cattle, causing anaemia and, in heavy burdens, death.
Local Land Services (LLS) says the current weather pattern is ideal for egg hatching and larval survival, heightening vulnerability—particularly in young or stressed stock. LLS Principal Program Manager Animal Biosecurity and Welfare, Dr Lyndell Stone, is advising producers to test, not guess.
“Producers should be doing worm tests to work out how high their worm burdens are,” Dr
Stone said, noting that veterinarians can guide the timing and type of testing and help interpret results into a practical treatment and property management plan. “Proactive producers who have worm tested regularly, understood their property’s drench resistance status, used efective drenches only when necessary and utilised the environment to kill larvae, have had low egg counts, which is pleasing.”
LLS recommends an integrated approach
that blends paddock management with targeted treatments:
• Test frst: Conduct worm egg counts (and, where appropriate, larval cultures) to confrm burdens before drenching.
• Know resistance status: Use efective actives only when needed to slow resistance development.
• Pasture tactics: Rotate grazing, spell high-risk paddocks and use lowercontamination paddocks for vulnerable classes.
• Quarantine drench:
Treat and hold new or returning stock to prevent importing resistant worms.
Producers should watch closely for clinical signs of barber’s pole worm, which can escalate quickly:
•Pale gums and inner eyelids (conjunctiva)
• “Bottle jaw” (fuid swelling beneath the jaw)
• Lethargy or reduced stamina when mustered
• Loss of body condition and, in severe cases, deaths
Early detection is critical in a season that favours rapid parasite buildup.
LLS District Veterinarians can assist with testing protocols, interpreting results, and tailoring control programs to local conditions and enterprise goals.
If you have concerns about barber’s pole worm, unusual symptoms or stock losses, contact your Local Land Services District Veterinarian on 1300 795 299
NFF President Attends Australia–China High Level Dialogue
Ian Rogers
National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) President David Jochinke has joined senior leaders in Beijing for the Ninth Australia–China High Level Dialogue, underscoring the importance of one of Australia’s most signifcant trading relationships.
China is Australia’s largest single export destination for agriculture, fsheries and forestry products, with around 70 per cent of Australian farm production exported. The trading relationship covers key commodities including red meat, grains and seafood, and is supported by the China–Australia Free Trade Agreement, which has now been in place for nearly a decade.
Mr Jochinke said the NFF’s participation refects the vital role of agriculture in the bilateral relationship.
“The NFF has always championed free and fair trade, not just for agriculture, but across
industries because of the role it plays in economic growth and global stability. Australian agriculture is unwavering in its commitment to that principle,” he said.
The NFF’s engagement with China extends beyond trade, with collaborations spanning technical, research and development felds. In recent years, the NFF, alongside member group GrainGrowers, has co-hosted delegations of Chinese students for week-long Australian farm tours, strengthening mutual understanding and agricultural knowledge exchange.
Mr Jochinke emphasised the value of ongoing discussions.
“Dialogue like this is key to maintaining this important relationship. We thank Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Minister Julie Collins for ensuring agriculture is represented on this visit.”
2035 Climate Target Welcomed, But Farmers Urge Caution
Ian Rogers
The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has welcomed the Federal Government’s newly announced 2035 climate target and Agriculture and Land Sector Plan, while warning that policy must not come at the expense of food and fbre security.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Treasurer Jim Chalmers, and Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen unveiled the target today, setting a national goal of reducing emissions by 62–70 per cent by 2035.
NFF Interim Chief Executive Su McCluskey said farmers recognise the need for climate action and are already making
signifcant contributions.
“It’s encouraging to see our nation collectively striving for solutions with this 62–70% range target,”
Ms McCluskey said.
“While the NFF supports an economy-wide aspiration of net zero by 2050, it cannot be net zero for agriculture. If we
don’t get climate policy right, farming will only get harder. Quite simply, we cannot compromise our food and fbre security.”
Agriculture’s role in emissions reduction
The Agriculture and Land Sector Plan, released alongside the target, outlines how primary
industries will engage with Australia’s Net Zero Plan. It acknowledges that Australian producers are global leaders in low-emissions food and fbre production, while emphasising that decarbonisation eforts must deliver tangible benefts to farmers and
Minns Government launches advanced Biosecurity Action Plan to safeguard farmers and landscapes
Ian Rogers
The Minns Labor Government has unveiled the state’s most advanced Biosecurity Action Plan,a comprehensive strategy to shield landscapes, livestock and crops from pests, weeds and disease threats, while driving growth in NSW’s $20 billion primary industries sector Strengthening resilience Australia and NSW are under increasing pressure from complex and costly biosecurity risks. The Minns Government has made it clear that strengthening protection for farmers, industry and the environment is a priority.
This year’s State Budget delivered $1.05 billion in biosecurity funding, alongside the appointment of NSW’s frst Independent Biosecurity Commissioner to ensure accountability and oversight.
A full review was commissioned to examine invasive species management, compliance, enforcement and governance. The outcomes from both the Natural Resources Commission and the Independent
Commissioner have shaped a new framework for action.
Key initiatives in the plan
The 2025–2026
Biosecurity Action Plan introduces a system-wide improvement program including:
• State Biosecurity Committee – A crossgovernment body to ensure faster, bettercoordinated responses to outbreaks and emergencies, supported by a new State Biosecurity Strategy.
• Boosted workforce and research – Training 200 additional staf for emergency responses, increasing research eforts, and upgrading the state’s primary biosecurity
research centre.
• Enhanced compliance – Stronger inspections, audits, investigations and enforcement to ensure landholders and industries meet their obligations.
• Invasive species management – A new statewide plan backed by multi-year resourcing and cross-agency coordination to tackle pests and weeds at a landscape scale.
• Weeds Action Program – A $40.7 million, fouryear program giving Local Control Authorities certainty and resources to improve weed management.
• Education and awareness – New outreach to ensure farmers, land managers
regional communities.
McCluskey welcomed this recognition.
“Food and fbre security must come frst, and it is reassuring to see this has been embedded in the sector plan. Productive farmland should not be sacrifced to ofset emissions from other industries,” she said.
Balancing opportunities and pressures
The NFF will now review the six sector plans to assess the practical pathways for agriculture.
But McCluskey warned that farmland is already under pressure, with producers facing competing demands from transmission projects, renewable energy proposals, and carbon-only
revegetation ventures.
Despite these challenges, the sector has already delivered substantial results. Since 2005, agriculture has signifcantly reduced its net greenhouse gas emissions through science, technology, and innovation. Advances include animal genetics that lower methane emissions, feed additives, and methane-mitigating pastures.
“Ag is already at the forefront of emissions reduction,” McCluskey said.
“We are committed to working with our members and the Government to ensure agriculture remains at the forefront of smart, practical climate policy.”
Universal Mobile Obligation Must Deliver for Rural Australia
Ian Rogers
The Federal Government has unveiled draft legislation for the Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation (UOMO), alongside its long-awaited response to the 2024 Regional Telecommunications Review.
regional communities,” Mr Thompson said.
The organisation also welcomed recognition of vital services such as the Regional Tech Hub and backed the Government’s push for tougher penalties against telcos that fail to meet obligations.
and businesses clearly understand their responsibilities and regulatory duties.
Minister’s comments Minister for Agriculture
Tara Moriarty said the plan would put NSW at the forefront of global biosecurity practice.
“Biosecurity is a Minns Government priority and we are now releasing this Biosecurity Action Plan to evolve the state’s system into one of the best in the world,” Ms Moriarty said.
She highlighted the government’s recent reforms, including the appointment of a feral pig coordinator, the crackdown on noncompliant businesses, and record investments in weed control.
National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) Telecommunications Committee Chair, Peter Thompson, said reliable connectivity is not a luxury but a necessity for the productivity, sustainability, and liveability of rural communities.
“Australian agriculture is constantly chasing productivity gains. Yet, persistent coverage gaps and unreliable service continue to plague the bush,” Mr Thompson said.
“The record number of submissions to the Review shows just how fed up farmers are. The status quo isn’t good enough. We need real change.”
The NFF acknowledged the Government’s investment in regional connectivity to date and sees strong potential in the UOMO initiative.
“UOMO must guarantee reliable and afordable connectivity. It is vital to the safety and productivity of
However, the NFF expressed disappointment that the Government’s response fell short of delivering on some of the most urgent recommendations from the Review.
“Farmers were hoping for frm commitments, especially on mobile roaming during emergencies. When it comes to safety, we can’t aford delays,” Mr Thompson said. With UOMO now positioned as the cornerstone of the Government’s regional telecommunications strategy, the NFF stressed that expectations are high.
“The Government has put its chips on UOMO – now it must deliver. Farmers will hold them to account and we will be watching closely,” Mr Thompson said.
The NFF has also released a detailed statement of expectations for the UOMO, outlining the sector’s priorities for improving rural connectivity.
Rural and Remote High Schools Invited to Apply for All-Expenses-Paid Trip to Sydney Royal Easter Show
Ian Rogers
Rural and remote high schools across New South Wales are being ofered a rare opportunity to experience the excitement of the Sydney Royal Easter Show, with applications now open for the 2025 All Roads to the Royal program.
Now in its sixth year, the initiative—run by the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW (RAS) with the support of the RAS Foundation—provides a four-day, fully funded trip to Australia’s largest agricultural event.
A Bridge Between Country and City
The program was designed to connect young people from rural and remote areas with the opportunities available at the Sydney Royal Easter Show. More than just a school excursion, it ofers an immersive,
behind-the-scenes tour that highlights agriculture’s role in shaping Australia’s economy and communities.
RAS Head of Agricultural Development, Paige Cape, said the aim was to spark enthusiasm among students and provide valuable insights into the agricultural industry.
“The All Roads to the Royal program was created to help bridge the gap between high school students located in rural and remote areas and the
opportunities available at the Sydney Royal Easter Show,” Ms Cape said.
“Our goal for the program is to provide more than just a school excursion; it’s about igniting students' passion for agriculture, showcasing the opportunities available within the industry and giving them a chance to get a foot in the front door.”
What Students Will Experience
The four-day tour, running from Tuesday 7 April to
Friday 10 April 2025, includes:
• Behind-the-scenes access to livestock and produce judging.
• Networking opportunities with agricultural leaders and professionals.
• Workshops and education sessions highlighting career pathways in agriculture.
• Show experiences including exhibitions, entertainment, iconic rides, and classic Show food.
All costs—transport, accommodation, meals, and entry passes—are fully covered, ensuring the program is accessible for eligible schools regardless of fnancial barriers.
Proven Impact
Since its launch six years ago, more than 200 students from schools in towns such as Coolah, Lake Cargelligo, Tottenham, Bowraville, Trundle and Narromine have beneftted from the program. For many, it has been their frst exposure to the scale and diversity of agricultural industries showcased at the Easter Show.
The 2025 program continues this legacy, building on strong engagement and positive feedback from previous participants.
Application Details
Applications are open now and will close on Monday, 3 November
2025. To be eligible, schools must be classifed as rural or remote by the NSW Department of Education. The 2026 Sydney Royal Easter Show will run for 12 days, from 2 April to 13 April 2026 at Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park.
At a Glance
• Program: All Roads to the Royal 2026
• Who can apply: Rural and remote NSW high schools
• When: 7–10 April 2026 (trip duration)
• Cost: Fully funded (travel, accommodation, meals, entry)
• Applications close: Monday, 3 November 2026
Image: 2025 All Roads to the Royal winner, Narromine High School at the Sydney Royal Easter Show.
Image credit: Monde Photo.
New Planning Tool to Fast-Track On-Farm Development
Ian Rogers
Farmers across New South Wales now have access to a powerful new tool designed to cut red tape, save money, and fast-track development applications (DAs) for essential onfarm infrastructure.
The Minns Labor Government has launched myFarmPlanner, an online platform that guides producers through the complex planning process in a matter of minutes, rather than months.
Cutting Time and Costs Traditionally, it could
take farmers up to 12 months to collect all the approvals, permits, and documentation needed to lodge a DA for structures such as barns, feedpads, processing facilities, or agritourism projects. The process often required costly consultants, adding as much as $2,000 per application.
myFarmPlanner streamlines the process by using an interactive map and tailored questionnaire to deliver clear, locationspecifc guidance in as little as 15 minutes. Farmers can now easily
identify:
•Relevant approval pathways and consent authorities
•Licences, permits, and required documentation
•Key regulations, legislation, and industry guidelines
•Property constraints including food zones, bushfre risks, and sensitive receptors
By consolidating data from local councils, state agencies, and industry guidelines, the platform reduces uncertainty and allows farmers to make faster, better-informed
decisions.
Broadening Access
The tool builds on a 2021 pilot program designed for the poultry sector and now extends to dairy, horticulture, poultry, and agritourism industries , with future updates to include additional agricultural sectors. The system will also integrate with the NSW Planning Portal to further improve efciency.
Developed with joint funding from the Australian and NSW governments through the Storm and Flood
Industry Recovery Program, myFarmPlanner is expected to be especially valuable for farmers rebuilding after natural disasters.
Industry and Government Support
NSW Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, said the platform was part of a broader push to support the $20 billion agriculture sector.
“Farmers are increasingly turning to technology to improve productivity and resilience. myFarmPlanner addresses critical barriers
by simplifying the DA process, reducing costs, and providing immediate guidance for recovery and expansion projects.”
Woodview dairy farmer Terry Toohey said the platform will help producers facing land constraints.
“It will allow farmers to consider their expansion options and see whether their land can accommodate new barns or feedpads before making big commitments.”
Viticulturalist Martin Gransden, from Molong, agreed.
PALM Review a Chance to Cut Red Tape and Boost Productivity
Ian Rogers
The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has welcomed the Federal Government’s review of the Pacifc Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme
Deed and Guidelines, calling it a vital opportunity to reduce red tape and improve outcomes for both farmers and workers.
NFF Interim Chief Executive Su McCluskey said while the scheme remained an essential part of Australia’s seasonal
workforce mix, its current design imposed unnecessary compliance burdens.
“Farmers value the PALM scheme and the contribution of Pacifc and Timor-Leste workers. But the scheme has been saddled with layers of complex obligations that make it harder than it needs to be,” Ms McCluskey said.
“The review is a prime opportunity to align PALM with the Treasurer’s productivity agenda by cutting duplicative or
inefective regulation.
Simplifying PALM will not only help employers but also free up government agencies bogged down in unnecessary administration.”
Key Priorities for Reform
In its submission to the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations, the NFF has outlined several areas for change:
• Accommodation –Streamline planning rules and remove barriers such
as fringe benefts tax to support on-farm housing.
• Pay and Conditions –Provide clearer guidance and harmonisation with the Fair Work Act to reduce legal complexity.
• Welfare and Wellbeing – Enable more fexible, modern approaches, including digital support platforms.
• Transport and Deductions – Remove disincentives for employers to provide safe transport and address conficting rules.
The NFF has also met with representatives from Solomon Islands and Tonga, and plans to engage further with other Pacifc nations to ensure the scheme works in the interests of workers, sending countries and Australian employers.
Falling Numbers Signal Change Needed
Ms McCluskey noted that short-term agricultural placements under PALM had dropped well below their peak.
“This tells us the scheme
in its current form is too hard for many employers to use. We need a system that makes it easier for farmers to mobilise their workforce while still ensuring workers are well treated. That balance is absolutely possible, but PALM as it stands doesn’t deliver it.”
The NFF said a streamlined scheme would boost productivity across regional Australia and secure PALM as a reliable, sustainable labour solution into the future.
Cousin It: A Lush Ground Cover for Northern Rivers Gardens
Jef Gibbs
When it comes to creating a low-maintenance, eye-catching ground cover, few plants make a statement quite like Cousin It (Casuarina glauca ‘Cousin It’). With its cascading, mop-like foliage, this quirky native has become a favourite for gardeners across the Northern Rivers, ofering texture, resilience, and year-round greenery.
About the Plant
Cousin It is a compact, prostrate form of the grey she-oak (Casuarina glauca). Instead of growing upright like its larger relatives, this variety hugs the ground in soft, fowing mats of deep green foliage. Its name comes from its resemblance to the shaggy-haired character from the Addams Family, making it both memorable and appealing.
At maturity, Cousin It typically spreads up to 2 metres wide and grows about 10–20 centimetres high. It works well across banks, garden beds, and around stepping stones, where it fows like a living carpet.
Growing Conditions
One of the biggest benefts of Cousin It is its adaptability. It tolerates a wide range of soils—from sandy coastal conditions to heavier clay soils— making it well suited to the diverse landscapes of the Northern Rivers.
• Sunlight: Prefers full sun but can also handle partial shade.
• Soil: Free-draining soil is
best, though it will adapt to most conditions.
• Water: Once established, it is drought-tolerant, though it appreciates occasional deep watering in prolonged dry spells. Cousin It is also tolerant of salt spray, which makes it an excellent choice for coastal gardens from Cofs to Coolangatta and in the regions inland towns such as Casino and Kyogle.
Benefts in the Garden
Beyond its striking appearance, Cousin It provides a range of practical benefts:
• Weed suppression:Its dense, mat-like growth shades out weeds, reducing the need for
constant maintenance.
• Erosion control: On slopes or banks, it helps stabilise soil and prevent washouts.
• Habitat value: Its dense foliage provides shelter for small insects and lizards.
• Design versatility: Works beautifully spilling over retaining walls, in rockeries, or under contrasting upright shrubs and trees.
Feeding and Care
Cousin It is a lowmaintenance plant, but a little care helps it thrive:
• Feeding: Use a slowrelease fertiliser designed for native plants in spring and again in late summer. Avoid high-phosphorus
fertilisers, as they can harm native species.
• Pruning: Minimal pruning is needed, though it can be lightly trimmed to keep it neat if required.
• Mulching: A layer of mulch around the edges helps retain soil moisture while the plant establishes.
A Northern Rivers Favourite
For gardeners seeking a tough, attractive ground cover with character, Cousin It ticks all the boxes. It blends seamlessly into both modern landscapes and nativeinspired plantings, all while keeping weeds down and soil in place. With its
playful looks and practical benefts, Cousin It is fast
becoming a must-have for Northern Rivers gardens.
HANKINSON, Bruce Henry
15.12.1958 ~ 08.09.2025
Formerly of Ballina NSW, late of Springwood QLD. Dearly loved husband of Karyn.
Treasured father of Katelyn, Alyssa and Daniel. Loved brother of Lenore and Ellena. Forever loved, always in our hearts.
Requiem Mass for the repose of Bruce’s soul will be celebrated at St Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Cherry Street, Ballina on MONDAY (September 29, 2025) commencing at 10.00 am. After Mass the cortege will leave for the East Ballina Cemetery. Livestream link: fwhlive.com/brha
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
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.
Broadwater
Dungarubba Country Music at Broadwater Hall
Saturday 27th September
11.30 – 4.30 Entry $5 including afternoon tea Lunch available Lucky Door
Raffles Variety of Artists Enquires Joy 0400 372 948
Low rates, friendly service
EXPERIENCED, FULLY INSURED,
Wood Chipping
• Cherry Picker
ALSTONVILLE PROBUS CLUB
For a free quote and advice contact NOEL
EXPERIENCED, FULLY INSURED, ALL SIZE JOBS
• Stump Grinding Low rates, friendly service
BRUNSWICK HEADS
For a free quote & advice Lopping Wood Chipping Felling Stump Grinding Removal
Email: northernriverstreeservice@gmail.com
Email: northernriverstreeservice@gmail.com
The Channon covering all areas of the North Coast P 6688 6136 M 0427 886 136
The Channon
Alstonville Probus Club meets on the last Thursday of each month at Plateau Sports Club at 10.00 am. This commences with a cupper and chat, with the formal meeting commencing at 10.30 which includes an interesting guest speaker. All visitors are welcome.
ALSTONVILLE QUOTA CLUB
Dingo mini digger & stump grinder goes anywhere
• Tree & Palms Removed • 17m Cherry Picker
• Larger Chipper • Stump Grinder • Qualified Arborist • Tree Detailing • Climbers • Rubbish Removed
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)
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
CWA Brunswick Heads
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 MUSEUM
Visit Crawford House Museum, an original farmhouse where you can see many interesting household objects which reflect family life from the beginning of the 20th century to the 1960s. There are also research facilities for information about Ballina Shire, as well as books about local history and other great merch. for sale. If you’re a support worker and you bring a client to the museum, your admission is free. And if you enjoy meeting and greeting visitors to our lovely part of the world, welcoming visitors to the museum is most rewarding. If you’re interested in joining our team of hosts for three hours a month, email us or drop in to the museum on Fridays. Crawford House Museum is at 10 Wardell Road Alstonville and is open on Fridays between 10am and 4pm and Sundays between 1pm and 4pm or at other times by appointment for groups.
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
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 funfilled shopping trip to Robina on Wednesday, 12th November – an outing not to be missed! information about our club or upcoming events, contact 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
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 coffee. 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 different? 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.
CWA Brunswick Heads branch will be holding a one-off Craft and Sewing Supply Sale on Saturday 18th October from 10am to 2pm at their hall on the corner of Booyun and Park Streets Brunswick Heads. Fabric, Lace, Yarns, Wools, Candlewicking, Threads, Patterns and much more. Tea and cakes will be available to buy, for enquiries please contact 0431 908063
CASINO
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 office 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 Griffins, President phone 0427622470 or Daphne Boyd, Secretary phone 0400070085.
CASINO UNITING CHURCH
CAFÉ PRAISE.... Every Wednesday @ 10-11am. All Welcome
10am Morning Tea Fellowship. Welcome and Chat 10.30am Praise and Worship
CASINO VIEW CLUB
Monthly luncheon meeting at Casino RSM Club at 11am, second Thurs of every month. Contact Jan on 0418715374
CASINO AA MEETING – ID MEETING
is held every Tuesday 12:00-1:30pm At the Casino Baptist Church, corner of West & Canterbury Streets Casino. Newcomers welcome. Contact George 0427 133 372.
CASINO AA WOMEN’S MEETINGS
Held every 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month, 12 –1.30pm at the Casino Baptist Church House, 137 Canterbury St, Casino. Contact Liz 0427133370.
LION’S CLUB CASINO
Lion’s Club meeting is held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday each month at Casino RSM Club from 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start. Denise Green 0448014682
LISMORE CASINO NAVAL ASSOCIATION
Meets bi-monthly at Casino RSM, new members welcome. Ph: Chris 66293269 or Jim 0427400625.
THE PLATYPUS RSL DAY CLUB operates every Tuesday at the Community Centre from 10am to 2pm. The day consists of gentle exercises, mental stimulation, games, and entertainment. Members are asked to pay $7 for their morning tea and lunch. Transport can be provided within the town limits. If you are feeling socially isolated or just need a day out, please contact Robyn on 66623871. New members are welcome.
Eltham
ELTHAM MASONIC LODGE – The Eltham Masonic Lodge welcomes all masons, to attend their monthly meetings, which are held on the fourth Tuesday, each month at the Eltham Masonic Centre. The meetings commence at 7.30 pm. If you are not a mason and are interested in joining Freemasonry, for more information please visit our website or phone 0416530456
EVANS HEAD
EVANS HEAD SEAGULLS CRAFT & QUILTERS GROUP Meet every Tuesday 9am-12noonin the Recreation Hall (opposite the Kiosk). We invite you to join us for a relaxing morning of crafting, friendship and sharing ideas. Beginners are very welcome. Finishing UFO’s, Embroidery, Gold Work, Hexagons, & Group Projects are just some of the crafts done.
The Rotary Club of Evans Head Markets held on the Last Saturday of the month held at Cribb Reserve opposite Illawong Hotel at 8am –1pm. A vast variety of stores from clothes, candle, Honey Photographs, books, and Organic Vegetables along with Rotary Bacon & Egg Rolls
Rotary Evans
Rotary Evans Head holds meeting the 1st and 3rd Monday of the month 5.30pm at Evans Head RSL downstairs in remembrance room. New members warmly welcomed. Cont. Sue 0438853921
EVANS HEAD CWA BRANCH meets every third Tuesday for lunch at noon. New members welcome. More info 0419 753 579
EVANS RIVER RSL DAY CLUB
The Evans River RSL Day Club meets each Monday in the Remembrance Room at Club Evans RSL Evans Head from 10am until 2pm Cost $10 includes Morning Tea and Lunch. We have several vacancies for volunteers and members, anyone who is feeling in need of some company are welcome to attend. Come along and join in the fun. Contact Merilyn 0401493316.
GOONELLABAH
TABLE TENNIS AT GOONELLABAH
Tuesday and Thursday mornings social playing: 9am-12noon; Monday and Wednesday nights social playing: 7-9pm; Training Monday mornings: 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 SENIOR CITIZENS
4 DAY COACH TOUR "23 members of Grafton Senior Citizens recently had a 4-day coach tour to Inverell area. Day 1, Gwydir Highway to Glen Innes, picnic morning tea in local park. To Danthonia, a cornmune of 200 residents east of Inverell, for organised lunch, & guided tour of sign business. At Inverell, visited Gem Centre, then Tourist Information Centre, before arriving at accommodation for next 3 nights. Day 2, to Copeton Dam for view, & picnic morning tea. At Inverell, self-guided tour of National Transport Museum, then organised lunch. Finally, to Gilgai New England Woodturning & Sculptures for didgeridoo demonstration, afternoon tea, view of gallery, & time to wander sculptures throughout grounds. Day 3, Mount Russell Wyoming Lavender for talk, morning tea of lavender scones, time to view gift shop. At Inverell Pioneer Village for organised lunch & selfguided tour. Finally, to Lake Inverell to take in view of relaxing venue. Day 4, to Tingha for self-guided tour of Wing Hing Long, a historic shop, frozen to 1996 when shop closed, leaving all contents intact. After Devonshire Tea, short drive to Green Valley Farm, for self-guided tour of museum, playground, animal farm, before organised lunch. Then a drive to Guyr4 a short visit to view tomato hot houses, then joined New England Highway to Glen Innes. After picnic afternoon tea at Standing Stones, travelled Gwydir Highway home to Grafton. Sincere thanks to committee for serving morning / afternoon teas, to all for support of trip, to all who assisted in various ways, & Coach Captain, Alan R, for ensuring great safe journey. Next meeting, Tuesday, 14 October, 10am. Next day coach trip to New Italy & Evans Head, Friday, 14 November, seats still available. Enquiries, Sandra, 6642 7720; 0417 464 946.
An Amazing Event is coming to Grafton Gallery! Our River, Our Stories, Our Song. Clarence River Guardians and the Grafton Regional Gallery present Water Talks Gathering a celebration of our river on World Rivers Day. Enjoy River Stories, hear about cutting edge river research, and be moved by the Youth Dance Mob’s Performance of Big River Song. When: Sunday 28th September, 11am – 2pm Where: Grafton Regional Gallery Includes: Finger food, tea and coffee. Come and Celebrate Our River! Proudly supported by Southern Cross University and The Lions Club of Clarence – Environmental
GRAFTON’S MIGHTY CLARENCE TOASTMASTERS CLUB
Perhaps it’s time to find out what it’s all about! If you would like to improve your communication and leadership skills. Make new friends and have fun, you are warmly invited to attend the Mighty Clarence Toastmasters Club. We meet on the 1st & 3rd Wednesday evening of each month. You may attend either from the comfort of your own home via zoom or join us in person at the Joan Muir Community Centre: 194 Turf Street, Grafton.
GRAFTON SENIORS BE FIT EXERCISE CLASSES
Every Friday at the Uniting Church, Prince Street. Join us for gentle exercises designed for Seniors. We meet at 10.30a.m. for a cuppa and a chat with the exercises commencing at 11. All equipment is provided and there is no cost to the participants. Further information can be obtained from Chris 0400490691 or Dot on 66423248 or 0477213017
Grafton VIEW Club
Grafton VIEW Club meets on the 4th Tuesday each month at Grafton District Services Club, Mary Street, commencing at 10.30am. Please come along & enjoy yourself with a tasty meal, motivated guest speaker & at the same time you will help disadvantaged children.
Please phone Helen at 6642 3867 for catering purposes no later than the Friday before the meeting. As well, a social outing is held each month. You are warmly invited to come along, have some fun & you will be helping others as well. See you there!
CLARENCE RIVER HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Clarence River Historical Society – Schaeffer 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
Kingscliff 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 Kingscliff 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. <p>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 offer. 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 17th of October 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 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 well-being of people in our community. Shed Activities Members work on their own projects, Mentoring is available, General woodworking, Welding & light engineering, Repair & restoration of items for the public Constructing projects, of items for the public Constructing projects for preschools, hospitals & other organisations Assembling flatpack, Minor maintenance work for the elderly & disabled, working with the disabled, talking with other members or simply having company. Memberships: $40-year Attendance Fee: $3 tea/ 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 TENNIS
Social Tennis is played at East Lismore Tennis Club, Cnr Neilson St & Oakley Avenue every Tuesday from 8am. We invite social players of all abilities to join us, we are a mixed group who enjoy a morning’s tennis without the commitment of competition. Ph: Fay Ross 0412910487. Everyone welcome.
MAINLY MUSIC
Fun, interactive, music sessions for young children [birth to school age] and their parents/caregivers in a relaxed setting on Tuesdays starting at 9:30am during School Terms. Children will be introduced to music, creativity and more. They will develop gross motor skills, as well as socialise with others in a loving, shared family environment. Morning tea with snacks included. Mainly Music at Lismore Anglican Parish Centre, 10 Zadoc Street, LISMORE. T: 0266213200
PROBUS CLUB OF LISMORE HEIGHTS
Our mixed group meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month at the Lismore Heights Bowling Club in High St. Our brief meeting is followed by morning tea and a guest speaker. Senior’s lunch for $15 at noon is optional. Guests and visitors are welcome. Ring/text Roslyn on 0437606674 for details of our other monthly social gatherings and outings.
ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE NETWORKING
Want to be part of an innovative, interesting, and inclusive networking group who meet fortnightly to share ideas, meet other professionals and work together to make a 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 SUNRIS E
Interested in contributing to community? Local and international?
The Rotary Club of Summerland Sunrise meets every Friday at 7.05am for Breakfast at Red Dove Café 80 Keen st Lismore. Join us please. Ph: 0435990919
SUMMERLAND AMATEUR RADIO CLUB
Meetings of the club are normally held on the second Sunday of each month at the clubrooms: 412 Richmond Hill Road, Richmond Hill at 1pm. Visitors are welcome. The clubrooms are usually open on Sunday afternoons from about 1pm onwards. We are primarily amateur radio enthusiasts and welcome persons interested in radio, electronics, astronomy, and similar subjects.
SUMMERLAND BONSAI SOCIETY INC.
Come and learn an addictive hobby with us. We provide personal support from experienced teachers as well as demonstrations and Bonsai information.
Club days are held on the second Saturday of every month at 1pm in the Red Dove at Lismore Be inspired about the art of creating little trees. Ph: 0438103601
ZEN and INSIGHT MEDITATION –Lismore Heights
INSIGHT (VIPASSANA) MEDITATION and practice:This mindfulness-based meditation group sits on Wednesdays from 7:00-8:30pm. The evening includes meditation instructions, sitting and walking meditation, Dharma talks and discussion. For further details, please contact Rosie – 0402 682 925. Beginners and experienced meditations are warmly welcomed.
ZEN MEDITATION and practice The Zen meditation group sits on Mondays from 6:30pm-8:15pm. If you wish to attend
MACLEAN
MACLEAN VIEW CLUB
Monthly meetings the 3rd Thursdays of each month at 11am. Contact Ruth Toyer on 0409844212 by Mondays, no later than 7pm. Numbers are required for catering purposes.
MCLEANS RIDGES
MCLEANS RIDGES CRAFT GROUP meet at the McLeans Ridges Hall, Cowlong Road, McLeans Ridges on the 2nd Saturday of each month from 9.30am to 3.30pm. Scrapbooking, card making, paper craft, knitting whatever takes your fancy. Come along for an enjoyable day. Bring your own morning tea and lunch. 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.
YAMBA
YAMBA LIONS CLUB
Yamba Lions Club’s meetings are held 2nd & 4th
Thursdays of month at Yamba Bowling Club, commencing at 7pm for 7.30pm. For further information, please contact the Secretary Peter 0417546097. Social outings also held at various time and visitors and new members’ welcome.
ALL NORTHERN RIVERS
NORTHERN RIVERS EVENING PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP
The next meeting of the Northern Rivers Evening Prostate Cancer Support Group is to be held on Wednesday October 1st – 7pm until 9 pm at the LISMORE WORKERS MAIN CLUB – KEEN STREET, LISMORE Men previously and newly diagnosed with prostate cancer are urged to join with the group to experience the personal cancer stories told which give a great opportunity for all to share, learn and benefit from each other – Partners and Carers are also most welcome to attend as family are very much involved with the process and treatment of those with this diagnosis –GUEST SPEAKERS – Fiona Montgomery CBA Casino Branch Manager also Dr Jim Walter
Topics to be on Elder Abuse, Senior Safety, Cyber Bullying and Mental Health on diagnosis of Prostate Cancer – Enquiries phone Bob Johnson (02) 6622 5792
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 GRAFTONHall 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
Northern Rivers District:
Sunny. Light winds becoming east to northeasterly 15 to 20 km/h during the afternoon then becoming light during the evening. Thursday. Sunny. Winds west to northwesterly 15 to 20 km/h shifting east to northeasterly during the afternoon then becoming light during the evening.
Northern Tablelands District:
Sunny. Areas of morning frost. Light winds becoming west to southwesterly 15 to 25 km/h during the day then becoming light during the evening.
Thursday. Sunny. Areas of morning frost on and west of the ranges. The chance of morning fog near the Queensland border. Light winds becoming west to southwesterly 15 to 25 km/h during the morning then becoming light during the evening.
New South Wales:
Chance of a shower along the coastal fringe, southern slopes and Victorian border, with a dusting of snow for the Alps above 1700 metres. Dry and mostly sunny elsewhere. Areas of morning frost and across the ranges, western slopes and plains, with fog along the ranges and slopes. Daytime temperatures near average, tending slightly cooler along the inland Queensland border. West to southwesterly winds, tending southwest to southeasterly inland. Thursday. Isolated shower possible along the southern slopes, ranges and coast, falling as snow over the Alps above 1500 metres. Dry and sunny elsewhere. Areas of morning frost across the ranges and slopes. Daytime temperatures slightly above average along the coast and inland. Northwest to southwesterly winds, tending northeasterly along the northern coast during the afternoon.
Byron Coast:
Winds: Southerly 15 to 20 knots shifting east to northeasterly below 10 knots during the afternoon then becoming north to northeasterly during the evening. Seas: 1 to 2 metres, decreasing below 1 metre during the afternoon or evening. Swell: Southerly 1.5 to 2 metres, decreasing to 1 to 1.5 metres morning. Weather: Partly cloudy. Coffs Coast: Winds: South to southwesterly 15 to 20 knots shifting north to northeasterly below 10 knots during the afternoon. Seas: 1 to 1.5 metres, decreasing below 1 metre during the afternoon. Swell: Southerly 1.5 to 2 metres, decreasing to 1 to 1.5 metres during the morning. Weather: Cloud clearing. Gold Coast Waters: Winds: Southerly 15 to 25 knots shifting east to northeasterly below 10 knots during the afternoon. Seas: 1 to 2 metres, decreasing to 1 metre during the afternoon. Swell: Southerly around 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore. Weather: Partly cloudy.
Local karting prodigy Kai Kanyaro to fy the fag for Australia in Spain
Jef Gibbs
At just 10 years old, Lennox Head’s own Kai Kanyaro is gearing up to make history on the world stage. This month, he will travel to Spain to compete in the T4 Nations Cup World Karting Championship at the Kartodromo Internacional, becoming the youngest-ever driver to represent Australia at the event.
A champion in the making
Despite his young age, Kai has already built a formidable racing résumé:
l Multiple state titles and championships across NSW and Queensland
l Victories in two-hour endurance races, often against much older competitors
l Lap records set at tracks across both states
l And, most importantly,
“lots and lots of friends along the way,” he says with a smile.
For Kai, karting is more than a sport — it’s where he feels most at home.
“To go so fast, so close to the ground, and feel the air rushing past — it’s the best feeling ever,” Kai said.
Carrying the Aussie fag
Kai will be the only Australian competitor in this year’s Nations Cup, proudly fying the fag not just for his country, but for the Northern Rivers. He has his sights frmly set on the future, too.
“I want to bring a full-on Aussie Team next year,” he said, aiming to return in 2026 with a dedicated Australian squad to showcase even more local talent.
With over 250 drivers expected to compete in Spain, Kai is determined to make his mark.
“Karting is a great sport where you battle on the track, and when you’re not racing you’re having fun with your friends in the pits,” he said.
Backing a big dream
To help realise his long-term vision, Kai is seeking business sponsors to support his racing journey, covering costs such as travel, gear, and competition expenses. In return, sponsors will be featured across his kart, race gear, media appearances, and growing social platforms.
“This is a chance for our community to rally behind a local kid with a big dream and show the world the talent we have here in the Northern Rivers of NSW,” Kai said. Get in touch
For sponsorship opportunities contact: kaikanyaro@gmail.com
WEEKLY SPORTS RESULTS
Coraki Veterans Golf Results –
Thursday 19 September 2025
What a fantastic day of golf last Thursday, with 58 players taking on the second round of our club championships at Coraki. The course was in excellent condition thanks to the tireless eforts of our volunteers — a big thank you to everyone who keeps it looking so good.
Results
l Winner: R. Thorne
l Runner-up: K. Lloyd
l Third place: S. Smith
l Free game: D. Vagne
Chicken/ball winners:
B. Julian, J. Celich, G. Brown, K. Prosser, R. Black, P. Brophy, T. McBurney, B. McDonald, R. Webber, W. Lunnon, R. Mackay, B. Cramp, L. Newton, E. Reddell, R. Earnshaw
Nearest the pins:
l 3rd/12th – J. Sauer
l 6th/15th – J. Weaver
Looking ahead
This Thursday, a single stableford will be played for those staying at home, while many members will head of to Woodburn Evans Head for the interclub visit.
Until then — good golfng!
— Report by Max
Local karting prodigy Kai Kanyaro to fy the fag for Australia in Spain
KAI KANYARO to World Karting Championships Spain
Irukandjis Crowned World Champions in El Salvador
SURF CITY, EL SALVADOR – Australia’s national surf team, the Irukandjis, have reclaimed the top of world surfng, winning gold at the 2025 Surf City El Salvador ISA World Surfng Games. It marks Australia’s frst Open Team title since 2011, ending a 14-year drought and reinforcing the nation’s reputation as a global surfng powerhouse.
The victory was spearheaded by 19-yearold Dane Henry, who claimed a spectacular individual gold medal in the men’s event, becoming the frst male surfer in the modern era to win while holding the reigning ISA World Junior Champion title. Bronze medals from Morgan Cibilic and Sally Fitzgibbons, along with strong performances from the entire squad, cemented the team’s commanding result.
Dane Henry Makes History Henry etched his name alongside legends Tom Curren, Gabriel Medina, and Jordy Smith, all of whom achieved similar double crowns. He opened the men’s Final with a
massive full-rotation aerial (8.67), followed by a near-perfect 9.50 on a long right-hander at La Bocana, sealing his win with an 18.17 combined score.
“This win means
everything,” Henry said. “To represent Australia and stand on top with this team is the best feeling in the world.”
Fitzgibbons and Cibilic Add Bronze
$5.4 Million Funding Boost for NSW Surf Clubs
Robert Heyward
Surf Life Saving Clubs across New South Wales are set to beneft from a $5.4 million funding boost through the Surf Club Facility Program, announced by the Minns Labor Government.
The program ofers grants of up to $1 million across three categories, supporting projects that upgrade, restore or construct surf lifesaving facilities. For the frst time, grants will also be available for project design and planning, helping clubs move from concept to completion with greater confdence.
Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said the program refected the Government’s commitment to building stronger, safer communities.
“The Surf Club Facility
Program will provide critical funding to enable clubs to better protect beachgoers. By supporting design and planning, we’re ensuring projects are wellprepared and better placed to secure funding for construction.”
The program also places a strong focus on inclusivity, with priority given to projects that encourage participation by women and girls, people with disability, First Nations communities, culturally and linguistically diverse groups, and LGBTQIA+ members.
Key Date Category 2 & 3
applications close: 10 November 2025
Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said the investment comes as surf lifesavers gear up for the busy summer patrol season.
“This $5.4 million in upgrades will ensure volunteers are better equipped to protect beachgoers. Combined with new jet skis, upgraded equipment, and Emergency Response Beacons, we’re delivering record support for Surf Life Saving NSW.”
Surf Life Saving NSW
President Peter Agnew said the funding would provide vital support for
clubs under pressure from both extreme weather and rising membership.
“Our 83,000 lifesavers and Nippers rely on safe, secure and accessible facilities. This investment will ensure our clubs remain ft for purpose while continuing to serve the communities they protect.”
The Surf Club Facility Program is part of a four-year, $21.6 million commitment by the NSW Government to strengthen surf lifesaving across the state.
For details and applications, visit: sport. nsw.gov.au/grants/surfclub-facility-program
Team captain Sally Fitzgibbons extended her extraordinary ISA record with a sixth career medal, adding bronze to her four golds and one previous bronze.
“Out of every ISA medal I’ve won, this is the one that stands out. Our team connection made it unforgettable,” she said.
Morgan Cibilic, the 2021 Championship Tour Rookie of the Year, also claimed bronze, his best ISA result to date.
“It’s the frst time in such a long time that Australia has won gold, and I’m super proud of our team,” he said.
A Golden Era Reignited
The El Salvador triumph is Australia’s sixth team
gold in ISA World Surfng Games history and its 16th overall medal, consolidating its position as the most successful nation in the event. It follows the Irukandjis’ junior world title in 2024, marking back-toback global victories.
Coach Adam Dufner praised the squad’s spirit: “It has been a privilege to coach this incredible group of athletes. This event is a career highlight.”
Final Team Standings
1st – Australia – 3935 pts (Gold)
2nd – Peru – 3143 pts (Silver)
3rd – Spain – 2943 pts (Bronze)
4th – France – 2743 pts (Copper)
Jef Gibbs
IRUKANDJIS
AS CLEAR AS MUD
REBELS GO DOWN SWINGING
By Gary Nichols
Photo: Gary Nicholls.