TVW09Jul26MA001

NAIDOC March - 50 years of deadly

By Jonathon Howard

THE TWEED community will come together on Friday, July 10, for the annual NAIDOC March and Corroboree in the Park taking centre stage as part of NAIDOC Week 2026.

The march will begin at 10am from the Tweed Heads Civic Centre before making its way to Jack Evans Boat Harbour, where the Corroboree in the Park will feature cultural performances, community activities and celebrations honouring the world’s oldest continuous living cultures.

The celebrations will continue into the evening with the Tweed NAIDOC Ball.

This is a highlight of Tweed’s events calendar as NAIDOC Week is celebrated nationally each July to recognise the history, cultures and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples while encouraging all Australians to learn more about the nation’s First Peoples.

The event forms part of this year’s NAIDOC Week celebrations, running from July 5 to 12 under the national theme ‘50 Years of Deadly’, marking five decades of recognising the voices, strength and pride of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Tweed’s Deputy Mayor Reece Byrnes said the week was an opportunity for the entire community to celebrate and learn.

“NAIDOC Week is a time to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, history and achievements, here in the Tweed and across Australia,” Cr Byrnes said.

“Council is proud to support these celebrations and encourages everyone to attend, learn more and show their support.”

Other events throughout the week include the opening ceremony at Minjungbal Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Museum, a Sports and Community Expo at Arkinstall Park, Cultural Day and Salt-

Local

by the Tweed NAIDOC Committee with support from the Tweed Byron Lo-

Stoush over Cobaki

By Jo Kennett

BILLIONAIRE PROPERTY developer

Bob Ell has launched an extraordinary public attack on Tweed Shire Council, claiming his proposed Cobaki Estate “cannot be developed” because of bureaucratic red tape and a lack of water infrastructure, a claim the council strongly disputes.

Mr Ell, the founder of Leda Holdings and developer of Kings Forest, made the comments in a LinkedIn post about his proposed multi-billion-dollar Cobaki Estate development adjacent to the Gold Coast Airport on the NSW-Queensland border.

The 600-hectare master-planned community was approved by former Labor Party NSW Minister for Planning Tony Kelly in 2010, with 5,500 planned dwellings designed to accommodate more than

12,000 residents.

“Almost three decades ago, LEDA acquired Cobaki Estate opposite the Gold Coast Airport with full master planned approval, along with sufficient power, sewage and water to service the land,”

Mr Ell wrote.

“Today it cannot be developed because Tweed Shire Council, due to their incompetence, does not have sufficient water.

“This means no homes for over 12,000 people.

“No jobs for over 16,500 people.

“No town centre, schools and healthcare facilities. No parks, playing fields and cycleways.

“And 100+ hectares of bushland that will never be protected for good.

“The Aussie dream is no longer alive because of bureaucratic red tape.”

Tweed Shire Council general manag -

Continue reading on page 8.

water Day at Fingal Beach.

celebrations are coordinated

er Troy Green rejected Mr Ell’s claims, saying the issue was not a lack of current water supply but funding the infrastructure needed to support future growth.

Naidoc 2012

The Cobaki Estate development

I chose a country shire over a city any day

I write in response to Laurie McMahon’s letter regarding Cudgen Connection (TVW, July 2, Letters).

To Mr McMahon’s question: “does the Tweed Shire want to become a city one day or is it content to just be a country shire?”.

I would wager many of us are quite content for it to remain a country shire.

I do not believe protecting farmland will turn the Tweed into a “backwater”, quite the opposite.

The farmland, coastal and hinterland villages and open spaces are central to the character of this region.

The idea that “anything new and big in the area will enhance the overall look” is exactly the kind of thinking that has led to places like Surfers Paradise. In my experience, many people choose to live in the Tweed Shire because it is not that.

I moved to Bogangar precisely because it is a small coastal town.

While I support public healthcare and the new Tweed Valley Hospital, I have no wish to see the Tweed Shire become a city, nor to see its farmland traded away in the name of progress.

Keri Algar, Bogangar Vandals should face strong arm of the law

In reply to Neville Jennings letter “why I live where I live” (TVW, June 2, Letters).

Neville you have expressed the delight of our area so lovingly and the beauty of it, it is a privilege to live in a world heritage area and very much appreciated.

I come from a war country and know, people planting trees and plants voluntarily and taking good care of the area, except those uneducated individuals that don’t respect the area with graffiti vandalism.

I have lived here for 31 years and it’s not our children, or the children after that, that has destroyed the area with graffiti and not the young ones

that live here now, as they are picked up and taken home by the school bus each day.

It is others out of the area coming in to vandalise.

When will those uneducated individuals learn and appreciate what a beautiful country we have and start taking care of it.

In my opinion they should be fined so they realise what a privilege it is to live where we live.

Edith Siseric, Smiths Creek

Do not pave paradise

I would like to respond to Laurie McMahon’s letter regarding Cudgen Connection (TVW, July 2, Letters).

As a newcomer to our beautiful Tweed Shire, you would be unaware of its fairly recent history, with the majority of residents opposed to over development like the ten storey high rises being proposed by the developer of Cudgen Connection.

Most residents of the Tweed are here for the laid back lifestyle and peaceful environment that we can all enjoy, with countryside being only one kilometre from the beach, enabling us to have the best of both worlds.

Newcomers have been attracted here by the 13.9 metre height limits, guaranteeing that we will not become a high-rise jungle like the Gold Coast has become.

If the developer who proposes high rises at least twice the height of our current limits for the Cudgen Connection takes his money elsewhere, we will not become a backwater, we will have preserved the environment and quality of life which we all now enjoy for future generations to come.

I dispute the comments that: “anything new and big in the area would enhance the overall look”. It would do just the opposite in my view and detract from the rural ambience which we all love.

I very much doubt that the residents here want to become a city, as they are very content to just be a country shire. We have the International Airport at Coolangatta only minutes

away, enabling us to live in a beautiful place but still be connected to the world whilst living in a peaceful paradise.

If a poll were to be held asking all Tweed residents which they would prefer, our current beautiful spaces or a high-rise jungle, I know what the majority would vote for, and guess what, it wouldn’t be high rise development ruining our prime agricultural land.

Joni Mitchell’s song about paving Paradise and putting in a parking lot should be compulsory listening for everyone!

I have asked The Weekly editor if our local paper could you run an informal poll asking this question.

Question: Are you in favour of high-rise development on the Cudgen Plateau and other rural areas in the Tweed Shire, or do you want to maintain the environmental beauty which we currently have?

Barbara Roughan, Kingscliff

This ratepayer does not forget

Lovely to see Tweed Shire Council not excessively increasing rates (TVW, June 2, page 3).

However, giving themselves a pat on the back and not acknowledging the extraordinary 2023/24 rates increase suggests they hope we don’t remember. I especially remember the threat to close libraries and get rid of the sustainable agriculture lot.

Meg Houghton, Murwillumbah Fix Terranora Road

It obvious that the Tweed Shire Council has a lot on its plate with damage roads from the flood events. But some roads are neglected including Terranora Road from Bilambil Road T junction down to Tumbulgum Bridge is a mess, a lot of southern workers realising that it’s a shortcut (rat run) to Tweed City.

Once the child-minding centre at Terranora School opens it will be Pitt Street. It is close to it now with heavy vehicles plus. Looking ahead

Mongrels give life-saving blood

THE MONGREL men are at it again, this time swapping their walking shoes for donation chairs as the blokes rolled up their sleeves to give blood at the Mobile Life Blood van in Kingscliff last week.

A total of ten members of the group, Kingscliff Mongrels men’s group, along with three supporters, took part in the organised donation drive with Australian Red Cross Lifeblood, helping to boost vital blood supplies.

Australian Red Cross Lifeblood, a not-for-profit division of the Australian Red Cross Society, has been supplying life-saving blood products to Australian hospitals and communities for more than 30 years, relying heavily on volunteer donors.

Kingscliff Mongrels member Tim Gibson told The Weekly the idea came after seeing a call for donors and realising the group could make a collective contribution.

“Life blood has the opportunity for teams to donate as a group, so I

if a major disaster happens the area will be at mercy for essential services

P Lazer, Terranora Home insurance rises

As a pensioner we now have insurance companies refusing to insure in many areas, mine being Banora Point.

And the ones that do provide insurance on my property are charging huge amounts, even though I have never had a claim against any insurance company.

The reasoning being because I live in an area where there have been natural disasters and therefore everybody in these zones is charged exorbitant amounts for insurance. This is noth-

approached Neil and Noel. We mentioned the donations at the Tuesday and Thursday morning walks and got ten members interested in donating,” Mr Gibson said.

Mr Gibson, who had donated blood previously, said the group response was immediate once the idea was raised.

He also praised the simplicity of the booking process and the professionalism of staff at the mobile donation unit.

The Kingscliff Mongrels are already making plans to encourage more members to take part in future group donations.

ing but a blatant rip off in my view and surely the State or Federal governments could do something about this. Each home should be assessed on their own circumstances, not all lumped in together!

I have also written to our local state and federal governments about this dire problem for all, but more so for people on fixed incomes.

Rick Vaughan, Banora Point

Hotel plans for Murwillumbah

By Jonathon Howard

A REVISED development proposal for a boutique hotel in the heart of Murwillumbah’s CBD has returned to Tweed Shire Council this month with fewer guest rooms, more onsite parking and a redesigned building aimed at addressing concerns that led to an earlier application being withdrawn.

The new development application for 15 Queen Street proposes a 10-room boutique hotel featuring a bathhouse, rooftop plunge pool, reception lounge, street gallery and five onsite car parks - or two

more than the previous proposal.

While the proposal still falls short of the council’s calculated parking requirement, planners say council officers have already indicated the remaining demand can be accommodated by nearby public parking.

According to the Statement of Environmental Effects, lodged with the application, council’s traffic engineer accepted that “the shortfall of 1.78 spaces... can be accommodated within the adjacent onroad and off road public car park,” while also acknowledging “parking demand for a Hotel/Motel may not necessarily coincide with the CBD peak parking demand.”

The revised proposal replaces a larger 17-room hotel application lodged in 2024, which was withdrawn last year after council requested further changes.

Planning consultants Planners North say the latest design directly responds to those concerns.

“The subject application seeks consent for a revised scheme which addresses the concerns raised by council in relation to the initial DA,” the report states.

“The revisions to the scheme include a reduction in guest rooms from seventeen (17) to ten (10), increased setbacks to the adjacent heritage listed Citadel building and a reduction in the height of the proposed building to ensure compliance with the 12.2m height limit.”

The proposed four-level development has been designed by DFJ Architects and would replace the existing commercial building with boutique accommodation comprising 10 guest suites, a gallery fronting Queen Street, reception and lounge areas, an onsen bathhouse and sauna, rooftop pool and supporting guest facilities.

Planners describe the project as an opportunity to create a unique tourism destination within Murwillumbah’s town centre.

“The primary objective of this proposal is to create a contemporary boutique hotel which provides a unique accommodation experience within the Murwillumbah town centre,” the application states.

If approved, the development would become one of the most significant boutique accommodation projects proposed for Murwillumbah’s CBD in recent history, adding to the town’s growing reputation as a tourism destination.

Continued reading on page 9.

CORNERSTONE POOL DIVISION

BUILDING POOLS WITH EXCELLENCE

THROUGHOUT THE NORTHERN RIVERS

When Ben and Kev first met, Kev had been highly recommended by our local tile supplier as the go-to expert for laying natural stone around pool surrounds.

It didn’t take long for Ben and Kev to hit it off. They soon discovered they shared the same values - an unwavering commitment to quality, exceptional attention to detail, and a strong focus on client satisfaction.

With Kev’s 42 years experience in building high-end pools and refurbishing pools (Kev also started Murwillumbah Pool Shop, one of Murwillumbah’s first pool shops) and Ben’s expertise in running a premium residential building company, partnering to build luxury pools together was a natural next step.

A concept view of the proposed 15 Queen Street, Murwillumbah, hotel

Secondary homes inquiry debated

By Jonathon Howard

THE NSW Government has acknowledged the need for reform to rural housing rules, including secondary dwellings and dual occupancies, but has stopped short of committing to the major planning changes recommended by a Legislative Council inquiry, reigniting debate across the Tweed.

The response follows the NSW Legislative Council’s Select Committee on Rural Housing and Second Dwellings Reform Report No. 1, which examined ways to boost housing supply in rural and conservation zones outside Greater Sydney.

The government said secondary dwellings and dual occupancies are “important housing types that can support intergenerational living and provide more housing choice to help address the current challenges in housing markets.”

Of the six recommendations, three

were “supported in principle”, two were “noted” and one was “not supported”.

The key recommendation called for planning changes to allow secondary dwellings and dual occupancies as complying development in rural zones including RU1, RU2 and RU4RU6, while also considering conservation zones C3 and C4.

The government responded: “Supported in principle. The NSW Government agrees in principle with supporting additional housing opportunities in appropriate rural locations where there is demonstrated demand and where development can occur without creating unintended land use conflicts, adverse environmental impacts, or infrastructure consequences.”

However, it added that “a blanket approach to permissibility across all rural and conservation zones is unlikely to be appropriate given the substantial variation in environmen-

tal, hazard, access, and servicing conditions across these zones in NSW.”

The government also supported in principle providing councils with additional guidance for Local Environmental Plans, noted recommendations relating to moveable dwellings and unauthorised structures, rejected a proposal for new infrastructure charges on second dwellings, and supported in principle councils auditing rural roads.

“There’s still a long track ahead but we are on the right track.”

The report has sparked some local debate along with Tweed Shire Councillor Kimberly Hone.

Cr Hone, who has campaigned for

reform, welcomed the response.

“The State Government’s decision on the recommendations from the Secondary Rural Dwellings inquiry has been handed down,” Cr Hone wrote.

“There’s still a long road ahead but we are on the right track!

“Despite the Mayor and the Greens councillor (Cr Firth) trying to block this initiative I will not give up the fight! This is the quickest, cheapest and easiest way to fix the housing crisis in our shire!”

The announcement also drew strong community reaction, with one resident arguing the reforms would do little to improve affordability.

“These proposals are being presented as a solution to the housing shortage, but they are nothing of the sort,” the resident wrote.

“They primarily facilitate rural residential development, placing our natural environment and rural

landscapes at risk while doing little to deliver genuinely affordable housing where it is most needed.”

Cr Hone rejected those concerns.

“These homes will be built on already cleared land. This will prevent the need to bulldoze more trees for development,” she wrote.

She also argued the reforms could reduce housing costs.

“If we allow second dwellings, that instantly removed the cost of land for new homeowners of up to 1 million,” she said.

“Rural land only exists because you have people working it… those working the land are requesting this new measure to support that work.”

YOUR THOUGHTS: The Weekly is interested in your thoughts on this matter. Do you believe the state government should relax the rules for secondary dwellings on most lots? Share your thoughts and letters via email: editor@theweekly.net.au

Peter Bennett and Craig Huff spoke at the inquiry chaired by John Ruddick MLC

Public Hearing - Inquiry into Rural Housing and Second Dwellings Reform - 8 December 2025

Please

Two tax cuts for every Australian taxpayer

Capping PBS medicines at $25, or $7.70 for concession card holders

Doubling bulk billing clinics from Tweed to Ballina

Giving first home buyers a fair go

Extending paid parental leave to a full six months

Making childcare cheaper

Banning supermarket price gouging

Australia’s first Environmental Protection Agency

Cost pressures adding to Cobaki woes

Continued from page 3.

“The proposed raising of Clarrie Hall Dam is the key project identified to ensure ongoing water security and enable the next generation of housing and employment lands, including Cobaki,” Mr Green said.

“What has changed over time is not the planning intent, but the economic and funding environment.

“Infrastructure costs have escalated substantially, while the mechanisms available to councils to fund that infrastructure, including recouping costs through developer service plans, have not kept pace, creating a significant funding gap for essential projects.

“Put simply, Council cannot construct infrastructure for the price that it could in 2012.

“In this context, Council is taking a responsible and necessary approach by: aligning development with confirmed infrastructure capacity; prioritising existing communities and approved growth areas; progressing approvals for major water infrastructure including the raising of Clarrie Hall Dam; and advocating for funding reform to developer service plans and government support.”

Mr Green said it was “about ensuring growth is delivered in a way that is sustainable, affordable and does not compromise water security for existing residents.”

“The opportunity for Cobaki and other major development areas remains, but like all growth across regional NSW, it depends on coordinated infrastructure investment from all levels of government and appropriate contributions from developers,” he said.

The site at Cobaki Lakes covers 17 individual allotments and is located within the local government area of Tweed Shire Council. The entire site is owned by LEDA Manorstead Pty

Ltd, who is also the proponent.

The site is located on the New South Wales and Queensland border approximately 1.5 kilometres west of the Gold Coast Airport and approximately 6 kilometres inland of Tweed Heads (refer Figure 2). Adjoining the site to the east is a wetland protected by State Environment Planning Policy No. 14 - Coastal Wetlands, Cobaki Creek and the Cobaki Broadwater. Remnant bushland forest areas lie to the west and north of the site and are zoned for environmental protection. Agricultural land primarily used for cattle grazing adjoins the site to the south and to the north-west. To the south-west is a golf course, which is zoned rural.

Source: NSW Department of Planning, DirectorGeneral's Report Part 3A Approval of Cobaki, December 2010.

Got a nasty flu? You’re not alone

By Jonathon Howard

TWEED RESIDENTS are being urged to take precautions as flu activity rises across New South Wales, while COVID-19 remains at a low level of activity, according to the latest NSW Respiratory Surveillance Report for the week ending June 27, 2026.

The report shows influenza activity continued to increase across the state but remained “at a low level”, while COVID-19 activity remained stable and low.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), however, continues to circulate at a high level.

In the Tweed and wider Northern NSW region, health data shows COVID-19 notifications remain comparatively low, with no indication of significant local escalation, while influenza cases are increasing in line with state-wide trends.

“Influenza activity continued to increase but remained at a low level. COVID-19 remained at a low level of activity. RSV activity remained at a high level,” the report states.

While COVID-19 remains subdued across most age groups, influenza notifications have risen sharply across the state, increasing by 40.1 per cent in the past week alone.

COVID-19 notifications increased by 7.5 per cent, while RSV increased by 11.5 per cent.

Emergency department data also shows influenza-like illness presentations increasing, particularly among children under 10 years of age, a trend that health authorities say is typical for this stage of the winter respiratory season.

Across NSW, there were 1,098 new COVID-19 notifications in the week ending June 27, including 93 cases in Northern NSW Local Health District, which includes the Tweed.

Murwillumbah Public School

Influenza notifications were significantly higher, with 2,165 cases recorded statewide, including 16 in Northern NSW, while RSV remained the most active of the three viruses, with 2,924 notifications statewide and 26 recorded locally.

NSW Health says influenza vaccination is now strongly recommended, while RSV vaccines are now available for older adults as part of ongoing efforts to reduce severe illness during winter. Local health experts say the combination of rising influenza and sustained RSV circulation is typical for winter but warn that pressure on emergency departments often increases as school-aged children and older residents are most affected.

For Tweed residents, the message remains consistent: vaccination, early symptom management and avoiding contact with vulnerable people when unwell are key to limiting further spread as winter respiratory illness activity increases.

Murwillumbah Public School Shines at Festival of Performing Arts

Murwillumbah Public School is celebrating outstanding success at this year’s Festival of Performing Arts, with all three school choirs winning rst place in their respective sections. The Kindergarten–Year 2 Choir, Stage 2 Choir (Years 3 and 4), and Stage 3 Choir (Years 5

and 6) delivered exceptional performances, impressing adjudicators as they competed against local public and private schools.

Under the expert direction of Vikki Armour, the students showcased their musical talent, teamwork and dedication after weeks of

rehearsals. Their performances re ected the hard work and commitment of both the students and staff. Several students also competed in the festival’s solo, duet and trio instrumental sections, showcasing their musical talents and achieving outstanding results. Their impressive performances earned a host of medals, adding to the school’s remarkable success at the Festival of Performing Arts.

Murwillumbah Public School is now accepting enrolments for next year. Families with children starting Kindergarten are encouraged to enrol now and take advantage of the school’s Kindergarten Transition Program, beginning next term. The program provides children with the opportunity to become familiar with the school, meet teachers and classmates, and enjoy a con dent start to their learning journey.

Congratulations to all choir members and staff on this outstanding achievement. The entire Murwillumbah Public School community is incredibly proud of their success.

Flu numbers have risen sharply as health authorities urge residents to get vaccinated

Hotel plans submitted for Queen Street

Continued from page 5.

The report also states the project aims “to promote the Rail Trail and encourage guests to travel to the site by means other than private motor vehicle.”

Located within the Murwillumbah Main Street Heritage Conservation Area and adjoining the heritage-listed Salvation Army Citadel, now The Citadel, the proposal places a strong emphasis on protecting the surrounding streetscape.

Planning documents argue the development “will have an overall positive heritage impact” and describe it as “contemporary yet sympathetic infill development,” adding that key design changes have been made to preserve views of the historic Citadel and complement the character of Queen Street.

The application also notes that the redesigned building complies with the site’s maximum

Wollumbin High School upgrades

MEMBER FOR Lismore Janelle

Saffin said work is continuing over the school holidays on Wollumbin High School’s new sports court and landscaping ahead of Term 3.

“The Department of Education has continued upgrades at Wollumbin since the return to two separate high schools in Murwillumbah at the beginning of 2025,” she said.

“Completed works include new music classrooms and recording studio, upgraded Technology and Applied Studies rooms, administration spaces, additional learning support facilities, and improved cooling, ventilation and stormwater drainage.

“Work is now focused on the new futsal and pickleball court and remediating the area previously occupied by temporary demountables.

“The Department expects the sports court and landscaping to be completed in time for Term 3.

“This is the final stage of the upgrade and I look forward to visiting the school to see the finished results.”

Body composting up for debate

TWEED RESIDENTS are being asked whether they would support a new end-of-life option that would allow human bodies to be naturally composted instead of being buried or cremated.

The discussion follows the introduction of a private member’s bill to the NSW Parliament by Alex Greenwich, which would legalise natural organic reduction in NSW through a controlled and regulated process that accelerates the natural decomposition of a body into soil or compost.

Member for Tweed Geoff Provest said the proposal has prompted calls for community feedback.

“Tweed residents invited to share their views on whether natural composting should become a legal end-oflife choice in NSW,” Mr Provest said.

YOUR THOUGHTS: Would you choose natural composting as an alternative to burial or cremation? The Weekly would like to hear from readers. Send your thoughts to editor@ theweekly.net.au.

12.2-metre height limit and floor space ratio requirements, while specialist reports conclude it can safely operate despite part of the site being flood affected.

Reception, the bathhouse and kitchen and bar are proposed to operate between 7am and 10pm, with the rooftop outdoor areas also closing by 10pm in accordance with the project’s acoustic assessment.

A Traffic Impact Assessment found the development requires 13 spaces under council’s parking code, but after applying existing site parking credits of 6.22 spaces, the shortfall is reduced to just 1.78 spaces.

Planning documents state parking surveys of the nearby Murwillumbah multi-level car park, just 14 metres from the site, found ample capacity throughout the week provided the car park is open following lengthy closures of the

car park due to open at the end of this month.

“The survey results demonstrate that spaces are generally available on both the top, middle and ground levels during the peak weekdays with at least nine spaces available during any hour,” the report states.

“An abundance of car parking is available at all times on weekend days on all levels.”

The report concludes there is “sufficient parking via the multi-level car parking complex to accommodate the 1.78 space shortfall” and proposes developer contributions be paid to council for the missing spaces under Contribution Plan 23. Council officers have already indicated the arrangement would be acceptable provided no more than three staff are on site at any one time.

The application also outlines a range of measures designed to minimise impacts on neigh-

bouring properties, including limiting the use of the rooftop pool, communal outdoor areas, kitchen and bar to between 7am and 10pm.

Acoustic screening will also be installed around rooftop mechanical equipment to reduce noise.

A preliminary contamination assessment concluded the former warehouse site is suitable for redevelopment, while flood engineers determined the design would allow guests to safely evacuate during a major flood event and would not adversely affect flood storage.

The development application will be assessed by Tweed Shire Council before a determination is made.

YOUR THOUGHTS: Do you think Murwillumbah’s CBD could do with a new hotel? The Weekly is interested in your thoughts and letters via email: editor@theweekly.net.au

Three charged after Bray Park incident Brazen Casuarina car thefts

By Jonathon Howard

THREE PEOPLE have been charged over the death of a 34-year-old man who allegedly died after being restrained on a Bray Park footpath earlier this year.

The charges follow a three-month investigation by detectives under Strike Force Raison into the death of Vaughn Cummings, 34, who died in hospital two days after the incident.

Cummings had been wanted by police for several months prior to the Bray Park incident on unrelated outstanding warrants.

Emergency services were called to a home on Bellevue Avenue, Bray Park, about 4.30am on Wednesday, April 8, following reports of a man acting suspiciously.

Officers attached to Tweed/Byron Police Area Command arrived to find Cummings had suffered serious injuries after allegedly being detained by two men on the footpath.

NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the 34-year-old at the scene before he was taken to Gold Coast University Hospital in a critical condition.

A crime scene was established and detectives launched Strike Force Raison to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Cummings died in hospital on Friday, April 10.

Following extensive inquiries, police arrested two men, aged 31 and 42, and a 43-year-old woman at Tweed Heads Police Station about 7.30am on Thursday, July 2.

The two men have each been charged with manslaughter, while the woman has been charged with “hinder discovery of evidence –

serious indictable offence”.

All three were granted conditional bail and are due to appear before Tweed Heads Local Court on Monday, July 27.

Police said investigations under Strike Force Raison are continuing.

Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

LOCAL residents are being urged to lock their vehicles and homes, hide their car keys and consider installing anti-theft devices after two vehicles were allegedly stolen from a Casuarina home on Saturday night, July 4.

The vehicles, a Mitsubishi Pajero Sport and a Mazda, were stolen from a home in Pavillion Court after thieves allegedly broke into the home and took the keys.

“We slept through it and the cars were gone in the morning but the neighbours had CCTV footage and you could see three people going into every yard and car and jumping fences to try to access everyone’s house,” the woman, who did not want to be named, said.

“You could see them driving our cars away at 12.57am with the car they came in.

“They were very bold. Our neighbours have dogs and they took drinks out of our fridge and drank them and left them next to the door they broke in through.

“They were doing the same thing at Cylinders Avenue and someone called the police so they were being chased around 1am and they abandoned our cars and took off in the car they came in.

“Our keys are gone and there is a lot of drama around that but we are just grateful to have our cars back.

“We have to get all our locks changed and everything re-keyed.

“It’s just uncomfortable that they were in our house and they took my laptop, my work bag and they just tossed it all in the road.”

The woman said police chased the suspects to the Queensland border before they escaped.

“I think the laws where they aren’t able to collaborate to stop this because of this border doesn’t make us feel that confident on this side of the border,” she said.

“It’s clearly a recurrent issue and it must be frustrating for our police.

“It just seems so ridiculous because it’s not two different countries.”

The woman said it would cost a few thousand dollars to get locks changed and new FOBS and the family can’t use insurance as their excess is so high.

“We’ve had forensics here doing fingerprinting.

“It’s expensive but not as expensive as replacing two cars and we appreciate the responsiveness of the police officers. They were very helpful and professional.”

Earlier that evening, what are believed to be the same suspects driving a dark-coloured sedan, slowly drove along Cylinders Drive in Salt, stopping beside parked vehicles.

A witness said they didn’t seem to be touching the vehicles and thought that maybe they had some kind of key scanner, though this hasn’t been confirmed.

They did three passes in Cylinders Drive with police called twice, arriving within 15 minutes.

Another witness reported there was a police chase in Chinderah between 1:30 and 2am. The cars were found abandoned in Seaview Street and undamaged.

Owners of push-start vehicles can reduce the risk of theft by installing an onboard diagnostic (OBD) port lock.

The devices are inexpensive, easy to install and widely available.

To stop keys being cloned use a signal blocking pouch, put them in a metal tin, or hide your keys in a drawer.

More information, including a demonstration video, is available on the Victoria Police website.

Vaughn Cummings

Failing to pay for fuel

A DRIVER who failed to pay for fuel in March 2026 and was charged by Tweed Police fronted Tweed Heads Local Court on Monday, June 29. The driver was issued with a fine for $5,500 and the service station was compensated for the fuel that was not paid for at the time.

Fuel theft continues to impact local businesses and the wider community.

If you forget to pay, return immediately to the service station. If you witness fuel theft, report it CCTV and number plate recognition are commonly used.

Fuel theft is a criminal offence and may result in charges, fines, and court action.

Fuel theft has been a feature of 2026 with reports across NSW.

Instances of fuel theft in NSW have surged recently, driven by fluctuating global fuel prices and supply concerns. These incidents range from service station drive-offs to the targeted siphoning of commercial trucking fleets and bulk diesel theft from rural and agricultural properties.

In fact, according to media reports, petrol stations are seeing a 50 per cent rise in fuel theft, with drivers filling up and leaving without paying, happening two to three times daily.

Police bosses to duke it out

By Jo Kennett

THE CURRENT commander of the Tweed Byron Police District has thrown down the gauntlet to his predecessor over their upcoming boxing bout on Fight Night 2026 in Sydney, August 7, to raise money for NSW Police Legacy and Police Citizens Youth Clubs.

Local residents are encouraged to back the bosses, by making a donation to support the PCYC and NSW Police Legacy, a charity that helps care for the widows, widowers, partners and children of deceased members of the NSW Police Force.

Tickets to the bout at The Juniors, Kingsford, are also for sale.

Superintendent Chris Schilt will face Superintendent Dave Roptell, former Tweed Byron Police District commander who is now in charge of the Richmond Police District, based at Lismore, but still resides in the Tweed.

“Proud to see one of our own stepping up again to support NSW Police Legacy,” Tweed Byron Police posted to their social media page.

“Tweed Byron Police District stands behind our Commander — literally and figuratively.

“Chris “The Sheriff” Schilt is lacing up for Fight Night 2026, and we hear Richmond’s Dave “The Mess” Roptell is doing the same.

“Richmond talk a big game.

“Tweed Byron? We prefer to show up, glove up, and back our own.

“All for a great cause, all in good fun - but make no mistake… this is District vs District, and we’re backing the Sheriff all the way.”

Richmond Police District wasn’t taking that lying down.

“The Sheriff might bring law and order, but The Mess specialises in creating chaos,” they posted.

NSW Police Boxing posted that, “Both of these men are very experienced in the ring so this bout will be a cracker.”

You can show your support by making a donation or to purchase a ticket to Fight Night 2026 Friday, August 7, Junior Rabbits go to the NSW Police Boxing Facebook Page.

“Some people talk the talk; these men walk the walk,” NSW Boxing posted. Was that you Supt Schilt?

Supt Roptell is currently beating Supt Schilt in the fundraising stakes and we can’t have that Tweed Shire. Support Supt Schilt at: www.policelegacynsw.org.au/fundraise/chris-schilt

JP honoured for 50 years

By Jo Kennett

WELL-KNOWN CABARITA resident Ian Anderson has been recognised for 50 years of service as a Justice of the Peace (JP), joining 165 long-serving NSW JPs honoured in the NSW Parliament.

Ian, who was sworn in as a JP on February 12, 1975 in Darlinghurst, was acknowledged alongside the “Class of ‘75” for five decades of voluntary service and dedication to the community.

NSW Attorney General Michael Daley praised the recipients, describing JPs as “integral to the function of courts and banks”.

Supt Schilt is also the president of NSW Police Boxing and he and Supt Roptell have done plenty of rounds for Legacy.

Chris The Sherrif Schilt, will take on Dave

The Mess Roptell in Fight Night 2026

Former Tweed Byron Police Commander Dave Roptell

VOLUNTEERS WANTED

Support for New Mums is seeking caring volunteers to support the health and wellbeing of local mums and their babies.

Just a few hours a week can make a real difference by offering practical help, friendship, and encouragement.

No experience is necessary - training and ongoing support are provided. A Volunteer Information Session is being held at Tweed Heads on 21st July at 11am.

To find out more or register your interest, email Support for New Mums at: newmums8@gmail.com 96374 Support for New Mums 9x3col

Tweed traffic boost

By Jonathon Howard

LONG-AWAITED UPGRADES to some of the Tweed’s busiest motorway interchanges have moved a step closer, with the NSW and Federal governments committing a combined $30 million to plan improvements along the M1 Pacific Motorway corridor between Tweed Heads and Byron Bay.

Announced as part of the 2026-27 NSW Budget, the Minns Labor Government will contribute $15 million, matching a $15 million commitment from the Albanese Government to fund modelling, concept designs and economic analysis for future upgrades.

Priority locations include Kennedy Drive and Minjungbal Drive at Tweed Heads, Darlington Drive at Banora Point and Tweed Coast Road at Chinderah, where growing traffic volumes have created congestion and safety concerns.

The funding will also support planning for improvements at Ewingsdale Road, while investigating public transport, bus priority and freight upgrades across the North Coast.

The investment comes as almost 70,000 vehicles use the M1 at Tweed Heads each day, with traffic expected to increase ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games.

NSW Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said the funding would prepare one of Australia’s busiest transport corridors for future growth.

“The M1 Pacific Motorway is one of Australia’s most important transport corridors, connecting communities, supporting freight and driving economic activity between NSW and Queensland,” Ms Aitchison said.

“But for the 70,000 people who use the M1 every day, congestion isn’t just frustrating – it’s time away from family, delayed freight, longer commutes and missed opportunities.

“That’s why we’re investing $30 million, with half funded by the Albanese Labor Government, to plan the long-term upgrades this region

will need for decades to come.”

Federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine King said the planning work would future-proof the motorway between Tweed Heads and Byron Bay.

Member for Richmond Justine Elliot said the funding would deliver concept designs for critical interchanges across the Tweed and Northern Rivers while laying the groundwork for longer-term improvements.

“It’s great that the NSW Minns Labor Government is matching the Albanese Labor Government’s $15 million in funding for the planning works for key fixes for Pacific Highway intersections on the North Coast,” Ms Elliot said.

“This funding will deliver modelling and concept designs for key interchanges from Tweed Heads to Chinderah.

“It will also start key planning work, so we can develop longer term improvements to the Ewingsdale Road interchange, a key link to Byron Bay.

“As your local Labor MP, I’m proud to be building on more than $3 billion I’ve already delivered for our region, including making our roads safer with the duplication of the Pacific Highway between Sexton Hill and Ballina.”

NSW Labor spokesperson for Tweed and Ballina Emily Suvaal said the planning work was essential for the region’s future.

“Anyone who regularly travels through Tweed Heads, Banora Point, Chinderah or Byron Bay understands how important these upgrades are,” Ms Suvaal said.

“This investment in planning and designing intersection upgrades to some of the region’s busiest interchanges will lead to improved travel times and safer everyday journeys for local residents.

“It’s not just about easing congestion now. It’s about making sure our road network can handle the growth this region is already living through.”

Roadworks rules relaxed

By Jonathon Howard

TWEED MOTORISTS frustrated by apparent

“roadwork zones” where no construction is taking place, will now see a major change under new NSW laws as speed limits in inactive work sites will be lifted when it’s safe to do so.

The Minns Labor Government’s reform, which took effect on Wednesday, July 1, removes one of the state’s most criticised road rules by requiring temporary roadwork speed limits to be managed more dynamically outside of construction hours.

Lismore MP Janelle Saffin said the change would be welcomed across the region, particularly in areas like the Tweed where ongoing flood recovery works have created widespread roadwork zones.

“Our entire area could be called a construction zone with the large number of roads under repair due to the flood damage,” Ms Saffin said.

“Thank goodness that they are funded from the Federal-State Government’s Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) as local councils could not otherwise afford them.

“I am forever on the road given that the Lismore Electorate covers over 16,000 square kilometres from Tenterfield to the Tweed Valley and dutifully stick to the speeds (not all do) in construction zones after hours or where no work is underway.

“Of course, you still have to use judgement and care based on the state of the road.”

Under the updated Traffic Control at Work Sites (TCAWS) Standard, Transport for NSW will now require speed reductions in construction zones to be removed during non-work hours where it is safe to do so.

The change means that if no workers are on site and conditions allow, motorists will be able to travel at higher posted limits rather than the reduced roadwork speeds that have long applied around the clock.

The new approach aims to improve traffic flow while still prioritising safety, with all drivers required to obey posted limits depending on conditions at the time.

The Minns Government says the reform delivers on an election commitment and is designed to balance safety with efficiency across NSW’s extensive road network, particularly in regions undergoing large-scale reconstruction following flood events.

The updated standard has been published in the NSW Government Gazette and Transport for NSW’s transport standards website. Authorities have reminded motorists that while limits may be lifted outside work hours, road conditions can still vary significantly in construction areas and drivers must continue to exercise caution.

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Tweed Link

Where community gathers, recovers, and begins again

Community halls have long been the heartbeat of life in the Tweed — places where locals celebrate, connect and lend a hand. And when disaster hits, they’re often the first doors to reopen, welcoming communities back in.

The 2022 floods damaged halls and centres across the region. Some took water. Some were cut off for days. After the floods receded, restoring them was about more than repairing buildings. It was about restoring the infrastructure of belonging.

Now, thanks to support from the Australian and NSW Governments through the Community Assets Program, Council has been hard at work rebuilding and upgrading halls across the region — making them stronger, more accessible and ready for whatever comes next.

Leading the charge is the impressive restoration of Tumbulgum Hall. Once battered by floodwaters, the historic venue has been given a major facelift, with a new roof, windows, external cladding, upgraded lighting and a relocated electrical switchboard safely

above flood level. Officially reopened in May, the hall now shines in its heritage colours and is once again buzzing with community life.

Locals also had their say in shaping improvements. In Kunghur, residents called for a better-equipped hub after landslips and communication outages left them isolated during the floods. Council responded, securing funding to upgrade the historic Kunghur Hall to ensure it can serve as a reliable base for both community gatherings and emergency response.

Upgrades have also been completed at Crabbes Creek Hall, Tweed Heads South Community Centre and Old Doon Doon Hall, with work still underway at Kingscliff Community Hall.

More than just bricks and mortar, these projects are about rebuilding the spirit of the community to create vibrant, welcoming spaces where people can come together in good times and lean on each other when it matters most.

Read more about the Facing the River series on Council's website at tweed.nsw.gov.au/latest-news

Tweed website?

Your Say Tweed has a new look and improved features, making it easier to stay informed and have your say on Council projects, plans and policies.

If you had an account on the previous platform, you'll need to reset your password the first time you log in to access your account on the new site.

While you're there, take a few minutes to review and update your profile. By selecting your interests and preferred locations, you'll receive information and updates that are most relevant to you, including new consultations and projects happening in your area.

You can also follow projects that interest you, access project information and engagement outcomes and stay up-to-date with opportunities to get involved in decisions that shape our community.

Visit yoursaytweed.com.au to explore current projects, update your details and join the conversation.

Tree maintenance works – Collier Street, Cudgen

Council will be undertaking maintenance works on the Norfolk Pine located in the reserve area on Collier Street, Cudgen, on Tuesday 14 July.

Following assessment, a section of the tree has been identified as dead and will be removed to ensure the ongoing safety of the public, including nearby school users. The tree is not being removed in its entirety; only the dead portion of the tree will be carefully removed.

The timing of these works has been scheduled during the school holiday period to minimise disruption to residents, visitors and local traffic.

Due to the size of the tree and the nature of the work, an 80-tonne crane will be positioned within the reserve area to safely complete the operation.

This Norfolk Pine is a significant local landmark and is dedicated to C. Hansen.

Council is committed to preserving the healthy portion of the tree while ensuring public safety. We thank the community for their understanding and cooperation while these important works are carried out.

For further information, please contact Council on 02 6670 2400 or tsc@tweed.nsw.gov.au

Council trivia

Did you get last weekʼs question right?

Answer: True

A lot of volunteer organisations need volunteers to sign up and complete safety and training before an emergency occurs. While Council is not the lead combat agency during an emergency, it’s established a webpage to help residents find local volunteer agencies that frequently seek help during emergencies.

Become an emergency-ready volunteer and lend a hand when it’s needed most. Find out more at tweed.nsw.gov.au/step-up-before-an-emergency

Thank you for being part of our everyday Learn more at tweed.nsw.gov.au/part-of-your-everyday

Sign up for Tweed Coast Road works alerts

Tree clearing on Tweed Coast Road is scheduled to be completed this week.

Tweed Coast Road users can sign up for free SMS and email alerts to stay informed about works on Tweed Coast Road.

The alert service will provide timely updates if construction causes any sudden or unforeseen impacts to access, travel times or safety in the area.

Tree clearing between Morton Street, Chinderah, and the Cudgen Road intersection at Cudgen is scheduled to be completed this week, weather permitting.

Contractor SEE Civil Pty Ltd has completed the identification of underground services along the route, with work now moving to relocating services such as telecommunications.

To register for free SMS or email alerts, visit the Widening Tweed Coast Road project page at tweed.nsw.gov.au/widening-tweed-coast-road

Tweed Shire Council wishes to acknowledge the Ngandowal and Minyungbal speaking people of the Bundjalung Country, in particular the Goodjinburra, Tul-gi-gin and Moorung – Moobah clans, as being the traditional owners and custodians of the land and waters within the Tweed Shire boundaries. Council also acknowledges and respects the Tweed Aboriginal community’s right to speak for its Country

Tumbulgum during the 2022 floods (left) and (right) the renovated Tumbulgum hall as it is today.

Your Say Tweed is your place to have your say and contribute to decision making in the Tweed.

Maintenance on the significant Norfolk Pine dedicated to C. Hansen will start on Tuesday 14 July.

Life ends, but paperwork continues

Most people know that arranging a funeral involves making decisions about a cremation or burial. What many don't realise is the amount of paperwork, legal documentation and administrative responsibilities that must also be completed during what is often a difficult and emotional time.

To help community members better understand these requirements, Halie Halloran, Managing Director of Paperbark Funerals and Deathcare and Tweed Shire Council Cemetery staff are hosting a free information session as part of Local Government Week 2026. The session will provide practical guidance on the paperwork, legal requirements and responsibilities involved in arranging a cremation or burial, with opportunities to ask questions throughout.

Attendees will learn about:

• the paperwork funeral directors complete on behalf of families

• the role of executors

• statutory declarations

• pre-arranged burial and ash interment plots

• interment rights and responsibilities

• what happens to important documents once they have been submitted.

Have your say

Add your voice to decision making in the Tweed

Commercial Use of Waterways Policy

Council is inviting community feedback on the Commercial Use of Waterways Policy

The policy aims to create a simplified approval pathway for  businesses using Council’s boating facilities on the Tweed River.

Hard copies of the document can be viewed on the project page or viewed upon request at our Customer Service Counters in Murwillumbah and Tweed Heads. Pop-up information sessions

Council staff will be available to chat with community members and businesses operating on Tweed’s waterways at the following locations:

• Dry Dock Road boat ramp, Friday 10 July, 8 am to 12 noon

The session is designed for anyone wanting to support ageing parents or family members, understand their responsibilities as an executor, or simply gain a clearer understanding of end-of-life arrangements. The 45 minute presentation will include time for questions from attendees. Guests are invited to stay for a complimentary morning tea on the chapel balcony and chat informally with the presenters. This practical and informative session provides an opportunity to gain knowledge, ask questions and better prepare for an important life event that affects us all.

Event details

10 to 11 am, Thursday 6 August

Tweed Valley Lawn Cemetery Chapel 813–871 Eviron Road, Eviron NSW 2484

Give yourself and your family the gift of being prepared.

Unable to attend in person?

Visit the registration page to join online: events.humanitix.com/life-ends-but-paperworkcontinues

Free event | Registration essential

A new, easier way to pay your Council bills

Tweed ratepayers now have a new way to pay their rates and water bills with Payble.

Payble is a secure, Council-approved online payment option designed to make managing your bills simpler and less stressful.

Instead of paying everything at once, you can spread your payments into smaller amounts — weekly, fortnightly or monthly. You can also set up automatic payments or reminders, helping you stay on track without worrying about due dates.

• Fingal boat ramp, Saturday 25 July, 8 am to 12 noon.

Have your say

The exhibition period is open from Monday 6 July to Monday 3 August 2026, with submissions being received until Monday 17 August 2026.

Share your feedback in one of the following ways:

• on the dedicated Your Say Tweed project page at yoursaytweed.com.au/commercial-use-waterways

• via email to tsc@tweed.nsw.gov.au

Subject: Commercial Use of Waterways Policy

• mail to the General Manager, Tweed Shire Council, PO Box 816, Murwillumbah, NSW 2484

Subject: Commercial Use of Waterways Policy

Council confidentiality policy: On request, any submission including identifying particulars will be made public. Council will give consideration to the ‘Public Interest’ and requests for confidentiality however, the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 may require confidential submissions to be released to an applicant.

at yoursaytweed.com.au

Payble can be managed from your phone, tablet or computer. At any time, you can check your balance, update your details or adjust your payments as your circumstances change.

Learn more about Payable and other payment tweed.nsw.gov.au/ways-to-pay

Left: Easily manage and schedule your payments in Payble.

Notification of development application determinations for the purposes of

4.59 of the Environmental

and Assessment Act 1979 (as amended). Application details

DA26/0231 – Alterations and additions to existing Cabarita Beach Hotel

Lot 903 DP 1113977, No. 2–6 Pandanus Parade, Cabarita Beach

DA26/0076 – Demolition of existing dwelling and construction of two storey dwelling with attached garage and in-ground swimming pool

Lot 33 DP 1031933, No. 15 She-Oak Lane, Casuarina

DA26/0199 – Two storey dwelling with attached garage & associated earthworks

Lot 220 DP 1308590, No. 7 Culgoora Street, Kings Forest

DA26/0220 – Two storey dwelling

Lot 203 DP 1308590, No. 88 Enmore Crescent, Kings Forest

DA26/0235 – Two storey dwelling with attached garage & associated earthworks

Lot 57 DP 1308587, No. 9 Berida Street, Kings Forest

DA26/0242 – Dwelling with attached garage

Lot 310 DP 1308592, No. 35 Enmore Crescent, Kings Forest

DA26/0243 – Single storey dwelling with attached garage

Lot 42 DP 1308587, No. 48 Enmore Crescent, Kings Forest

DA26/0248 – Single storey dwelling

Lot 38 DP 1308587, No. 56 Enmore Crescent, Kings Forest

DA26/0202 – Roofed patio

Lot 58 DP 855991, No. 14 Shoal Place, Kingscliff

DA26/0042 – Alterations and additions to existing dwelling including pool

Lot 30 DP 249874, No. 9 Sand Street, Kingscliff

DA26/0193 – Relocation of an existing dwelling to site, new carport, pool and associated earthworks including retaining Lot 3 DP 1293711, No. 178C Byangum Road, Murwillumbah

DA26/0124 – Secondary dwelling and shed

Lot 204 DP 806528, No. 8 Westminster Court, Pottsville

DA26/0169 – Alterations and additions to dwelling and secondary dwelling and swimming pool

Lot 5 DP 716288, No. 35 Ducat Street, Tweed Heads

DA26/0289 – Change of use and internal fit-out for a commercial bakery

Lot 3 SP 19100, SP 19100, Unit 3/No. 1 Machinery Drive, Tweed Heads South

DA26/0177 – Swimming pool

Lot 33 DP 29193, No. 11 Sunset Boulevard, Tweed Heads West

DA26/0115 – Demolition of existing dwelling and construction of new high set dwelling

Lot 2 DP 1320710, No. 759–769 Tumbulgum Road, Tygalgah

DA26/0223 – Construction of an in-ground concrete swimming pool

Lot 7 DP 810164, No. 21 Braemar Place, Urliup Refused

DA26/0084 – Use of unauthorised deck extension & proposed additional deck works (balustrade and privacy screening)

Lot 27 DP 1031933, No. 3 She-Oak Lane, Casuarina

DA26/0154 – Use of an existing shed and associated fill (existing) including further remedial earthworks on site

Lot 2 DP 1159743, No. 10 Chinderah Road, Chinderah The above development determinations are available for public inspection free of charge at the Planning and Regulation Division, Murwillumbah Civic Centre, during ordinary office hours or viewed on Council’s DA Tracking site located at datracker.tweed.nsw.gov.au

The pond at Tweed Valley Cemetery is a peaceful place for reflection and connection.

“Aging

Friendship and support at new Rotary hub

By Jo Kennett

A NEW home at Kingscliff for Banora Tweed Rotary Club Lunch

Ladies and Breakfast Brothers has laid the foundations for a community hub where shire residents can find friendship, support and a sense of belonging.

Club member Louanne King said the move from the Chinderah Scout Hall to the Anglican Church Hall, opposite Summerland Bank on Pearl Street, provides a partnership with the Chinderah and Surrounds People’s Hub and the Anglican Church. She said the new location, close to public transport, would allow the group to expand while tackling one of the biggest issues facing many Australians — loneliness.

“There is a lot of loneliness and lack of connection and it’s really important we rebuild that for times of cyclones, floods etc, so people have

“In helping other people you get a lot back. It’s about giving and using your skills to help others.”

networks to connect into to survive these tough times,” she said.

Each fortnight, women gather over morning tea and lunch while the men enjoy a barbecue breakfast, a chat and friendship.

“It’s just a lovely, friendly social outing at no cost,” Louanne said.

“We are reaching out to anyone local and that can be as far away as Coolangatta, Uki or Pottsville so if you want to join us for friendship, food and a chat, please come.

“We are working with the food hub

that is also going to be bringing in Service NSW to work with people here and hopefully in the future there will be other services like social workers being able to operate out of this venue.”

Help in troubled times

“I grew up in a time when housing was affordable, education was free and without those opportunities I wouldn’t be where I am today so I think it’s important to give back when we can,” new club president Jessica Keast said.

Jessica said the seeds of the Lunch Ladies and Breakfast Brothers were planted during the devastating 2022 floods.

“During the floods Rotary gave $20,000 as Visa cards so we knocked on people’s doors and said, ‘Here’s $1,000 if you need it,’” she said.

Volunteers also worked closely with residents of the Royal Pacific caravan park at Chinderah after floodwaters inundated the site.

“We helped them buy white goods and assisted them in repairing their caravans,” she said.

“Then we realised a lot of people didn’t know where to go or who to go to and they were isolated and that’s why we started the Lunch Ladies and the Breakfast Brothers to do outreach and build community resilience in older people.

“When the cyclone came around

we knew where to go and we went around and we made sure that everybody was safe.”

Benefits of Rotary

Jack Wilson has been in Rotary for more than 20 years and said helping others had enriched his own life.

“It’s really about having a similar ethic about what you enjoy doing,” he said.

“My wife Heather and I have been involved in Rotary helping people and it’s really good to help people turn their life around.

“In helping other people you get a lot back. It’s about giving and using your skills to help others.”

Jack used his engineering skills to help caravan park residents rebuild after the floods.

“We have made some great friends

from that,” he said.

He recently stepped down as president and said the organisation’s greatest strength was its people.

“It’s a really great way to meet people and be with people, not just here but you can go anywhere in the world,” he said.

“We recently had some Rotarians come over from India and invite us to visit them there.

“Wherever you are in the world you can find Rotary people if you are feeling a bit lonely.”

Lunch Ladies: First and the third Friday of each month from 11am to 1pm

Breakfast Brothers: Second and fourth Friday from 8am to 10am. Kingscliff Anglican Hall, 41 Pearl Street, Kingscliff. Phone Louanne on 0406 853908

Banora Tweed Rotary Breakfast Brothers around the barbecue at Kingscliff Anglican Church Hall

Lunch Ladies with Banora Tweed Rotary at Kingscliff Anglican Church Hall

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Frozen meals and fitness: Fuelling an active lifestyle

Staying active as we age isn’t just a lifestyle choice—it’s a key part of maintaining independence, energy, and a sense of wellbeing. From morning walks and tai chi to swimming sessions or keeping up with the grandkids, staying on the move helps strengthen muscles, bones, and overall stamina. But staying active also relies on something just as important: the right nutrition.

Preparing balanced, nutritious meals every day can be tiring, especially when fatigue, dietary requirements, or mobility challenges get in the way. That’s where modern frozen meals can make a real difference. Today’s high-quality frozen options are packed with flavour and carefully designed with seniors’ health in mind, providing the protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals that support muscle, bone, and digestive health. They’re portion-controlled, ready in minutes, and help reduce waste, so you can enjoy more of the things you love without the stress of daily cooking.

Gourmet Meals are complete, balanced meals with everything you need in one package—lean proteins,

colourful vegetables and heart-healthy ingredients—so there’s no need to add anything extra. Staying hydrated and enjoying a protein-rich meal after exercise helps your body recover and maintain strength, keeping you energised for everything from a morning stroll to an afternoon of gardening or playing with the grandkids.

Every Gourmet Meal is dietitianapproved, snap-frozen to lock in nutrition and flavour. From lean fish and chicken dishes to warming, protein-rich favourites or vegetarian options full of fibre, there’s something to suit every taste and lifestyle. Whether you’re managing a health condition, living independently, or simply want more free time, Gourmet Meals makes it easy to stay well-nourished and fully enjoy your day.

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Find help with Practical Support Solutions

By Jonathon Howard

A LOCALLY owned home care business is aiming to provide a more personalised approach to supporting older residents and people needing assistance across the Tweed Shire.

Practical Support Solutions has been established by neighbours and close friends Tiffany, Brett and Therese, who have combined their backgrounds in healthcare, emergency services and childcare to create what they describe as a flexible, community-focused support service.

The trio said the idea grew from years of working with people of all ages and recognising the need for more personalised home care.

“Our goal is to provide support with a difference,” co-founder Brett said.

“That difference is a much more personal and caring experience, combined with the ability to provide a wider range of services than most providers.”

The business offers a broad range of services, including domestic assistance, transport, personal care and support, companionship, lawn and garden maintenance, handyman services, warm water exercise, home safety checks and even companion dog visits for clients seeking social interaction.

Brett and Tiffany both bring experience as paramedics, caring for people from diverse backgrounds and with varying medical needs, while Therese has spent many years working in childcare.

Brett said the team’s combined experience had reinforced the importance of treating every client with dignity and respect.

“We strongly believe there is a huge need to focus on the client’s needs and requirements,” he said.

“Our main aim is to increase the level of posi-

tive, personalised outcomes for each individual in a way that enriches people’s lives.”

The founders said no two clients were the same, with requests ranging from technology assistance to transport for medical appointments.

“We’ve had enquiries from people needing help setting up their Wi-Fi through to needing transport to hospital,” Tiffany said.

“It could simply be sharing a cup of tea with a friendly face or helping with the garden when it becomes too much to manage.”

The team said their small size allows them to provide continuity of care and build trusted relationships with clients rather than offering a rotating roster of carers.

“That’s why we created Practical Support Solutions — to keep things simple,” Therese said.

“Our approach is friendly, flexible and tailored to the individual. As a small team, we focus on building trusted relationships and providing practical support that genuinely makes everyday life easier.

“At Practical Support Solutions, we believe good support starts with genuine people, practical help, and treating every client with dignity, kindness and respect.”

To mark the launch, the business is offering new clients $50 off their initial service throughout July.

To find out more please phone the friendly team on 0494 725 036 or visit their website: practicalsupportsolutions.com.au

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Eldership PRIDE

You and Me community

YOU AND ME CoMentoring community project in Murwillumbah is gaining a lot of interest at senior levels of Health, Education and Parliament.

This article aims to answer a few questions about it and invite retired women to participate.

There will be local residents who have plenty of ideas about that!

For this project the fact that Murwillumbah is a country town is a big plus.

Making connections between the generations is a major social focus in most countries, but so far attention has been on people who live in the city not the country.

Tweed Shire Council is the only shire in Australia so far to have a Senior Ambassador. This project could give pointers to other rural parts of Australia, and other countries which have isolated rural populations, and that is why it is viewed with such interest.

What is the project about?

As Senior Ambassador for 2026 at Tweed Shire Council, I have set up this project to bring young and old people together as Co-mentors.

The two main bodies sponsoring the project are Tweed Shire Council and Murwillumbah High School.

What is “Co-Mentoring”?

There are a few definitions, but the essence is bringing together people who take equal responsibility for providing useful learning for each other.

In the business world for example it is now seen as a way of ensuring that the diverse skills of the working team are shared.

It is seen as vital in succession planning as older staff leave the workforce with the potential

loss of their expertise.

In the creative world it is seen as resulting in an outcome which is greater than the sum of its parts.

In this project Co-Mentoring is the sharing of perspectives and ideas so that both young and old people can gain a more detailed appreciation of each others’ strengths.

From the end of July to end of September (term 3) there are structured meetings designed to support this aim.

How can I be involved?

There is a nominated group of year 11 students who will participate.

There are retired members of the community who have already volunteered to take part. The student group is an even split between male and female students.

The retired group is mostly men. So if you are a woman over 60 who enjoys the company of young people, and who is open to learning new things at the same time as sharing your life experience and skills, please contact me.

Karen Dawson email: karendinoz@gmail.com or by phoning TSC: 02 6670 2400 to leave your details. Be sure to mention Senior Ambassador

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Tweed Business Awards

By Jonathon Howard

THE TWEED’S business community gathered in style for an unforgettable afternoon of celebration as the inaugural Victory Auto World Tweed Business Awards luncheon was held at Twin Towns Services Club on Friday, June 26.

Luncheon awards a hit! Tweed Business Champion

For the first time, the prestigious awards moved from an evening event to a luncheon, with a packed room of business leaders, entrepreneurs and community supporters coming together to recognise the outstanding achievements of the region’s thriving business sector.

Major sponsor Victory Auto World helped make the event possible, while event organiser Lyndall Guinery-Smith was widely praised for delivering a polished and memorable celebration. Adding plenty of laughs to the afternoon was MC and comedian Ellen Briggs, who kept the audience entertained between presentations.

The Weekly was proud to be there cheering on local businesses during the Tweed’s biggest celebration of business excellence.

The coveted Business of the Year title was awarded to SEE Group, which also claimed Excellence in Large Business and Outstanding Employer of Choice – 21 Employees and Over, highlighting its continued leadership across the construction industry.

Another standout performer was Ho -

Excellence in Sustainability. Its artisan brand, Pasta’bah, also took home Excellence in Manufacturing.

Bookeze secured Excellence in Business & Professional Services as well as Excellence in Small Business, while Valley E-Bikes impressed judges with wins for Excellence in Micro Business, Outstanding Visitor Experience and Excellence in Sustainable Tourism.

Other category winners included Curly & Co Hair (Excellence in Personal Services), Chinderah Motors (Excellence in Trade), Preston Building (Excellence in Construction), Coolangatta Tweed Osteopathy (Excellence in Health, Care & Wellness Industries), M|Arts Precinct (Excellence in Creative Industries), Mega Office Supplies (Excellence in Innovation), Shaping Outcomes (Outstanding Community Organisation), Full Circle Support (Excellence in Diversity and

ness) and Tweed Eco Cruises (Excellence in International Business).

Individual excellence was also recognised throughout the afternoon. Alexander Scully from Summergrove Estate was named Outstanding Business Leader – 21 Employees and Over, while Ben McGloin from McGloin Baker won Outstanding Business Leader – 20 Employees and Under. Joshua Bacon from Stable Home Care was named Outstanding Young Business Leader, Chelsey Malivanek from M|Arts Precinct received Outstanding Employee, and Elody Armbruster from Summergrove Estate claimed Outstanding Trainee/Apprentice of the Year.

Long-time business advocate Jeannie Anderson was inducted into the Hall of Fame, recognising her lasting contribution to the Tweed business community.

A fitting finale came with Murwillumbah businessman John Spedding, of The Hinterland Collection, receiving the prestigious Champion of the Tweed award in recognition of his outstanding contribution to local business and the broader

By Jonathon Howard

FROM COLLECTING golf balls at Club Banora as a teenager to helping build one of the Tweed’s most diverse tourism and hospitality portfolios, Murwillumbah-born businessman John Spedding has been recognised for a lifetime of backing local enterprise and investing in the community he calls home.

John was recently named Champion of the Tweed at the 2026 Tweed Business Awards, an honour he said came as a complete surprise.

“The award was certainly unexpected and quite humbling,” he said.

“To be recognised in the region where I grew up, alongside so many incredible businesses and people, means a great deal to me.”

John’s connection to the Tweed runs deep.

His maternal grandfather, Tom O’Connor, founded the iconic Burringbar Bakery and served as a local councillor for more than a decade. His mother, Barbara Spedding, was a nurse at Murwillumbah hospital and founded and operated a number of businesses in the Tweed , while his father, John Spedding Snr, was a commercial fisherman and farmer who worked across a range of agricultural pursuits including cattle, bananas and seasonal crops such as zucchini, beans and peas.

Growing up surrounded by small business, agriculture and community service instilled in John a strong work ethic and a belief in contributing to the place where you live.

“I was fortunate to grow up around people who worked incredibly hard and were deeply connected to the community,” he said.

Continue reading on page 26.

It was an outstanding Tweed Business Awards and first luncheon

Jeannie joins Hall of Fame

By Jonathon Howard

THERE ARE few people who have done more to support Tweed’s business community than Jeannie Anderson, making her induction into the Victory Auto World Tweed Business Awards Hall of Fame a fitting recognition of more than three decades of service.

The respected and recently retired accountant and business adviser joined an elite group of Hall of Fame recipients during the awards luncheon at Twin Towns Services Club on Friday, June 26, recognising a career dedicated to helping local businesses grow and succeed.

Through her work with Mayberry Meldrum & Anderson, Jeannie has become one of the Tweed and Gold Coast’s most trusted advisers, combining professional expertise with genuine care for her clients.

A Murwillumbah local, Jeannie studied accountancy at the University of Southern Queensland before joining the firm in 2000.

In 2006, she became Mayberry Meldrum & Anderson’s (now owned by Count) first female partner. The firm has now served the region for more than 40 years.

Beyond accounting, Jeannie has supported countless local businesses through free educational seminars and has developed a strong reputation for her expertise in self-managed superannuation funds.

She was also active member of BNI Gold Coast and Tweed Shire for 14 years.

Jeannie now balances family life with husband

David McLean and their eight children and eight grandchildren, as well as on active boards including Agape Outreach and Rotary District 9640 and Kenya Health Australia.

“I did get an email to say I was a finalist in the Hall of Fame, and I felt really honoured as I love this region and to know I’ve made a difference is really special,” she said.

“As I entre retirement, I want to remain active in the Tweed’s business community as I know the challenges of small businesses and have knowledge to help.”

Jeannie said she measures success by “whether she’s made a difference”.

“For me the secret to everything is building trusted relationships and even today I have clients who call for a chat some advice and guidance,” she said.

“There comes a point when you realise you want to spend more time with family and my grandchildren, one of whom is almost an adult.”

While many accountants measure success through numbers, Jeannie Anderson’s legacy is reflected in the success of the businesses she has helped build, making her one of the region’s most respected and influential business leaders.

Jeannie Anderson was inducted Hall of Fame

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Thank you to our clients, families, staff and community for your continued trust and support.

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Tweed Business Awards

Champion of the Tweed

Continued from page 23.

John’s first job was collecting golf balls at Club Banora before taking on work at Kmart at just 14 years of age.

“Whatever I put my hand to, I always tried to work hard, look for opportunities and find ways to improve things,” he said.

After completing a degree in Mathematics and Statistics at Griffith University, John began his career in financial markets with Commonwealth Bank before he and his wife, Donna, spent 13 years living and working in England.

Returning home to the Tweed in 2012 proved to be a defining moment.

The couple purchased Summergrove Estate and began building a collection of businesses centred around hospitality, tourism, food, accommodation and experiences that celebrate the region’s natural beauty and lifestyle.

“We could have settled in Sydney or Melbourne, but we saw an opportunity to come back to the Tweed, be close to family and invest in a place we genuinely believe in,” he said.

“At one point we joked that getting into hospitality was a bit of a midlife crisis, but it has become so much more than that. We’ve been fortunate to build businesses that allow people to experience the best of this region.”

Since then, John and Donna have expanded their interests to include Summergrove Estate, Potager – A Kitchen Garden, Elysian Hills, Tweed Eco Cruises, Cascade Springs Farm Stay, Equinity Horse and Rider and Bellingdale Farm.

Together, the businesses employ around 20 full-time staff and more than 50 casual employees, many of whom are local university and TAFE students.

“One of the things we’re most proud of is being able to create opportunities for local people, particularly young people, so they can study, work and build careers here in the Tweed,”

he said.

John said the Champion of the Tweed award is recognition not only of his own journey, but also of the people who have supported the businesses along the way.

“This award really belongs to Donna, our management team and the many staff members who have contributed over the years,” he said.

“No one builds anything worthwhile on their own. We have an incredibly committed team and we’re grateful for the role they play in our success.”

Looking ahead, John remains optimistic about the future of the Tweed and its potential as one of Australia’s leading lifestyle and tourism destinations.

“The Tweed is an extraordinary place. We have world-class scenery, amazing food producers, passionate business owners and a wonderful community spirit,” he said.

“I think the best is still ahead of us.”

For aspiring business owners, his advice is simple.

“Take small steps, grow sustainably and don’t try to do everything at once,” he said.

“Surround yourself with people who complement your skills, never stop learning and don’t give up when challenges arise.”

“If you’re passionate about what you’re creating and genuinely believe in it, keep going. Persistence and resilience are incredibly important.” John Spedding recieving his award

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Last year while minding our own business in Personal Services in our Creative Industry of curly hairdressing, we were affected by cyclone Alfred. After moving out of our Recreation St, Tweed salon we moved in and out of 3 different locations before moving into our forever salon on Keith Compton Drive, Corner of Banks Ave. We had incredible help from other businesses in Tweed through that time. Despite the upheaval of course our clients service standard was of utmost importance. If it wasn’t for the storm I we would never have entered the Business awards. I figured it was massaging the symbiotic relationship with the Tweed Chamber to enter and perhaps a chance to make lemonade from lemons. Our team was thrilled to receive Highly Commended in Creative Industry and a Win Personal Services. I would like to thank the C&CH team, Tweed Shire Business Development Manager Vanessa, the planning department, and Tweed Chamber of Commerce and Industry for their assistance last year. A big thank you to our curl community. I am very grateful.

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ANOTHER GOOD weekend of footy, albeit without our Origin stars but still some real highlights.

It’s pretty safe to say the premiers are gone after a disastrous season. Injuries, rep duties and suspensions aside the Broncos have been plain from very early on and with games against teams ranked 1,2,4 & 5 in the last two months the task will be too big and they are just playing poorly.

The Cody Walker kicking incident was a blight on the game and another example of a super talented human who just has issues controlling his temper. I’m not a fan of his antics at all and to be honest he’s pretty lucky the ten mins for punching has come into the game or I reckon he would be target number 1 for plenty of teams which is disappointing as he is a quality player.

The Tigers promised so much and looked great early but they have capitulated badly and the Dragons got win number two on the weekend.

The Sunday footy was great and once again the up and down Eels showed what they are capable of but without any consistency it’s hard to see them heading north on the ladder but it was nice to see Jonah Pezet back in the NRL and playing well.

A huge game in the steel city Sunday night and the Knights snuck home to go to outright fourth on the ladder.

I’m a big Justin Holbrook fan and what he has done with the Knights has been super impressive. They have a good run home and have every chance of landing a top 4 spot. He cost them plenty of money but Dylan Brown was good

but I reckon everyone loves Fletcher Sharpe, what a player he is.

It was great to see the NRLW back and no real surprise to see the Broncos, Roosters and Warriors score strong wins. Some very entertaining footy and how good to see former Rugby star Teagan Levi in the NRLW with the Titans and a ripper try on debut.

Some quality viewing on Kommunity TV with the ASSRL carnival being held at Coffs Harbour this week. The 7 for Qld Maroon in the girls is a star - Lilianah Lewis.

Class act of the weekend was Brian To’o giving a massive shout out to the man who replaced him for Origin 3 in Jack Bostock. That was quality from a man who would be hurting, well done Bizza.

The Grand Finalists from last year in the NRRRL sit one and two with five rounds to go after Mustangs defeated in form Casino in Casino and Marist Brothers snuck home against Ballina. See you at the footy. Quinny

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Palestinian saga comes to The Regent

By Madeleine Murray

A SWEEPING PORTRAIT of one Palestinian family’s endurance across seven decades of displacement, loss and political upheaval will come to The Regent on Thursday, July 16, when All That’s Left of You screens in Murwillumbah.

Written, directed by and starring Palestinian-American filmmaker Cherien Dabis, the film follows a family whose history mirrors the modern history of Palestine.

Set initially in the occupied West Bank in 1988, the story begins as a young man joins a protest that changes the course of his family’s life. In the aftermath of violence, his mother, Hanan, recounts the family’s journey – a story stretching back generations to their home in Jaffa, a place they continue to long for even as it slips further from reach.

Inspired by Cherien’s own family history, the film was produced by actors Mark Ruffalo and Javier Bardem.

As the Palestinian-American filmmaker and lead actor Cherien told The Weekly: “I don’t think you can really understand what’s happening today without seeing when and how it started and what Palestinians have been enduring all these

decades. Current actions are in fact an acceleration of what began back then.”

The film unfolds against the backdrop of the long-running Israeli–Palestinian conflict, whose roots are widely traced to the rise of the Zionist movement and Britain’s administration of Mandatory Palestine following WWI.

Rising Jewish immigration intensified tensions between Jewish and Palestinian Arab communities, culminating in civil war after the United Nations proposed partitioning the territory in 1947 – a plan rejected by the Palestinians and neighbouring Arab states.

The 1948 Arab-Israeli War led to the establishment of Israel and the displacement of much of the Palestinian Arab population, an event Palestinians refer to as the Nakba.

Cherien describes the film as “a sweeping epic about three generations of one family, attempting to survive decades of political upheaval and personal loss.”

The film has received a warm critical reception.

At the 2025 Sydney Film Festival it received a standing ovation, while review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes awarded it a 100 per cent rating, describing it as: ‘A riveting drama that takes on the thematic breadth of an epic work.’

All That’s Left of You will screen at 6:15pm on Thursday, July 16, at The Regent, Brisbane Street, Murwillumbah. Doors open at 5pm, with refreshments available. At 6pm, Naser Shakhtour, founder of Cultural Media and distributor of the film, will introduce the screening. Tickets are available at theregentcinema. com.au. More information about the film can be found at allthatsleftofyou.au

PACIFIC BITUMEN

JP honoured for 50 years

Continued from page 11

“Every day, thousands of JPs across New South Wales help people access justice in their communities and witness and certify documents during significant life moments,” he said.

The event also marked the launch of JP 4 All, a new initiative to make it easier for people to find JPs offering accessible services, including AUSLAN, video appointments and disability-friendly locations.

Ian said becoming a JP was simply about giving back.

“I wanted to give back to the community,” he told The Weekly.

“I thought we needed to have one at TAFE.”

After beginning his teaching career in carpentry and joinery at Meadowbank TAFE in 1973, Ian taught at Orange, Lismore and Kingscliff TAFE. He moved to Cabarita in 2000.

Although now retired from teaching, Ian continues helping local residents by witnessing statutory declarations and certifying copies of documents.

“I might see three or four people one week, then no one the next,” he said.

“I meet people wherever it’s convenient and sometimes visit them at home if they’re elderly or have mobility issues.”

Unable to attend the Sydney ceremony because of the recent fuel crisis, Ian watched the event via livestream.

“I was very honoured and privileged to be recognised after 50 years of dedicated service,” he said.

“It’s purely voluntary but a real honour.

“I’ll keep going. We have to recertify every six years, but I’d definitely recommend becoming a JP.

“You’re recognised as a person of integrity in the community and it’s good to help people, often at short notice.”

Ian’s contribution to the community extends well beyond his role as a JP.

He has served on the committee of Cabarita Beach Surf Life Saving Club, chaired the Northern Region Westpac Rescue Helicopter fundraising committee, volunteered with the SES for 40 years — including as a controller — and has also been involved with Cabarita Beach Bowling Club and Lismore Turf Club.

While he has stepped back from some roles, Ian continues volunteering at the surf club, where his dedication to the community remains as strong as ever.

NORTHERN RIVERS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA PROUDLY PRESENTS

PROGRAMME

Overture to Don Giovanni

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Horn Concerto No. 1 in E Major

FEATURING: Ar�st MATT OTTLEY with his “ Sounds of Picture Book Series” & NRSO Ensemble

Richard Strauss

Symphony No. 7 in A

Ludwig van Beethoven

With conductor Marco Bellasi

Date:

Sunday 26th July 2026

ROBERT SCHUMANN

Piano Quintet in E flat Op. 44

Date: Please Note, SATURDAY 19th OCTOBER 2024

Time: 2.30pm NSW / 1.30pm QLD

Tickets: Adults $60 | Concession $50 | Students (18+)

Venue: Tweed Heads Civic Centre, Brett Street, Tweed Heads NSW

Tickets: Adults $50 I Concession $45

School Students $10 & Students 18 years & over $20

Children

Sharif (Adam Bakri) and son Salim - Jaffa pre-1948

Salim (Saleh Bakri) and Hanan (Cherien Dabis) with their children

Symphonic Selections with the NRSO

By Madeleine Murray

THREE MASTERPIECES spanning the Classical and Romantic eras will take centre stage in an exhilarating orchestral concert celebrating some of music’s greatest composers.

Northern Rivers Symphony Orchestra (NRSO) will present Symphonic Selections at the Tweed Heads Civic Centre, on Sunday, July 2026.

The program, conducted by Owen Clarke, opens with Mozart’s dramatic overture to Don Giovanni before acclaimed French horn soloist Neil O’Donnell performs Richard Strauss’s lyrical and technically demanding Horn Concerto No. 1 in E-flat Major. The concert concludes with Beethoven’s exhilarating Symphony No. 7 in A Major, a work renowned for its infectious rhythmic energy and emotional power.

From Mozart’s theatrical brilliance to Beethoven’s triumphant finale, the program promises an afternoon of virtuosity, passion and timeless orchestral music.

For Northern Rivers musician and educator Neil O’Donnell, performing Richard Strauss’s Horn Concerto No. 1 with Northern Rivers Symphony Orchestra is the culmination of a musical journey that began more than three decades ago.

Neil first picked up the French horn at the age of 11 and quickly developed a passion for the instrument’s unique blend of power, warmth and lyricism.

Strauss’s First Horn Concerto holds special significance for Neil. Although he studied and

performed the work during his conservatorium years, he has never previously presented it in a public concerto performance.

“Every time I return to the piece, I discover something new,” Neil told The Weekly.

“It’s a work that has grown with me. As my musicianship has developed, so has my understanding of its character, passion and heroism.

“The idea of heroism in this piece isn’t straightforward or triumphant in a simple sense. It’s layered. There are moments that feel almost superhuman in their confidence and sweep, but they’re constantly tested – pulled back by doubt, by introspection, by an awareness of vulnerability. That tension is what makes it so compelling to play.

“The second movement, in particular, feels like stepping into another world entirely. It’s so inward-looking, almost fragile in places, like a private conversation with yourself rather than a public statement.

“The lines have this suspended quality, as if time slows down just enough for something unspoken to surface. For me, that movement is where the emotional core of the whole work really reveals itself.”

A trombonist and violinist, conductor Owen Clarke has had a diverse career: recorded and produced five compact discs with the Royal New Zealand Air Force and Navy Bands, formed a Military Band in East Timor, travelled six times to Gallipoli to perform on ANZAC Day and has been announcer on the classical music radio station 4MBS in Brisbane. Symphonic Selections is at 2:30pm on Sunday, July 26, at the Tweed Heads Civic Centre, Brett Street, Tweed Heads. For tickets go to nrso.com.au

Local lens wins

By Rada Campbell

TWO TWEED photographers have turned a return to study into statewide recognition, with Dean James awarded first place and Nicole McKenzie named a finalist in the TAFE NSW Digital Art Prize, held in collaboration with Adobe and Wacom.

Both are Kingscliff TAFE alumni who came to photography as mature-age creatives, making the recognition more than a line on a CV.

Dean won first place in Photography and Digital Imaging for a black-and-white image of his friend Carter bombing a hill on his skateboard.

“I knew it would be a good image but had to figure out how to shoot it,” Dean told The Weekly.

After a fisheye attempt flattened the steepness, he switched to a telephoto lens from Boundary Street, compressing the scene to show the length and drama.

“It actually started to rain as soon as I got the shot, so I was glad to wrap it up with no harm done,” he said.

The win came with a comic twist. Unable to attend the Sydney event, Dean sent a video message, then realised he had congratulated the winner without knowing the winner was himself.

Dean plans to keep shooting “surf/skate/ lifestyle” work, alongside nature, vehicle, pet

and fashion photography, and said he is most pleased that a skate image was recognised: “Ultimately I’m most pleased that a skate image won this award regardless of who took it.”

Nicole’s finalist work, Muslim girls at Buddhist celebration, Java, was photographed near Borobudur Temple in Indonesia, where three young women stood layered together watching a street parade.

“What drew me in was their openness and presence,” Nicole told The Weekly.

She converted the image to black and white in Lightroom, allowing “the faces and expressions to carry everything”.

For Nicole, the recognition acknowledges not only the shot, but the digital processing behind it.

“It’s validation that the editing and processing side of my practice, not just the shot itself, is seen as its own creative act,” she said.

In a field often obsessed with youth and speed, the achievement is a reminder that instinct, patience and life experience still cut through.

Nicole plans to keep building documentary and travel photography, recently returning from West Papua and preparing for Ethiopia in January.

The TAFE NSW Digital Art Prize was held at the Adobe Sydney office on July 2. Follow their work @deanjamesnotjamesdean and @ nicole_e_mckenzie

Neil loves the warmth and power of the French horn

Owen is a dynamic, subtle conductor

Nicole McKenzie's finalist image, Muslim girls at Buddhist celebration, Java, captures three young women watching a street parade near Borobudur Temple in Indonesia

The next 50 years of Deadly

By Alicia Morgan

FROM JULY 5 to 12, communities across the Tweed will come together for NAIDOC Week, celebrating the histories, cultures and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

This year’s theme, 50 Years of Deadly, honours those who walked before us while looking proudly towards the generations who will carry their legacy forward.

To me, it is a reminder of the strength of our people and our responsibility to continue the journey.

I am a proud Aboriginal woman with ancestral connections to Bundjalung and Gumbayngirr Country, as well as Australian South Sea Islander heritage. My ties to the Tweed run deeply through my family, identity and sense of belonging. This Country continues to guide and ground me.

My journey with cultural identity has not always been straightforward. I have experienced times when my identity, integrity and even my family’s integrity have been questioned, including by other mob.

Those experiences cut deeply and can leave you feeling as though you must prove who you are or defend connections carried within your family and heart.

Over time, I have learned that identity cannot be taken away by the judgement of others. It is carried through family, Country, community, stories and responsibility.

Standing proudly in my identity means continuing to listen, learn, reconnect and honour those who came before me.

As an educator in a local NSW public school, this journey shapes how I teach and lead. I feel a strong responsibility to ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures and perspectives are taught with truth, respect and authenticity throughout the year.

When Aboriginal students see their culture

valued at school, it strengthens identity and belonging. For non-Aboriginal students, it builds understanding, respect and connection to the Country on which they live and learn.

When I look at our young people, I see the next chapter. They are not waiting for the answers— they are the answers. They will be the leaders, educators, artists, advocates and knowledge holders who shape the next 50 years of deadly. They follow in the footsteps of Elders, ancestors and community members who stood strong and created opportunities for those coming behind them.

Our responsibility is to keep that path open and ensure our young people know their culture, identity and voices matter.

Fifty Years of Deadly is not only about looking back with pride. It is about standing strong today and ensuring the next generation can carry our stories forward—strong, proud and deadly.

Women’s

By Rada Campbell

WHEN Helen Bub-Connor returned to Pottsville, she brought with her a lifetime of music - and a belief in the power of women’s voices to build something more than song.

Born in Murwillumbah and educated locally, Helen’s musical life began early, singing in church and school choirs, experimenting on the family piano, performing in high school rock bands and taking lead roles in Murwillumbah High School musicals.

After years living interstate, overseas and in remote Australia, Helen returned to the Tweed Coast, where she now works as a voice and piano educator, composer, conductor and workshop facilitator.

In 2024, she founded Kalliope On The Shore, a Pottsville-based women’s voice ensemble that has grown into a committed community of singers from across the Tweed Shire, including Murwillumbah, Pottsville and Kingscliff.

“The human voice has always intrigued and inspired me - not just as a musical instrument, but as a powerful tool for creativity, connection, expression and healing,” Helen told The Weekly. Although she did not originally set out to form a women’s choir, the first people to respond to her invitation were all women, and the ensemble

naturally evolved from there.

Helen said many members began with little formal vocal training, but the choir has grown in confidence, musicianship and connection.

“The women aren’t simply turning up to sing; they are contributing to something they feel genuinely invested in,” she said.

The name Kalliope On The Shore was adopted in 2025. In Greek mythology, Kalliope is the “beautiful-voiced” Muse of music, poetry and eloquence, while “On The Shore” honours the choir’s home on Bundjalung Country and the influence of landscape, community and environment.

The choir’s upcoming performance, Ocean Contemplations, will combine three-part vocal harmonies, poetry, electronic soundscapes and slow-motion footage of local beaches and shoreline life.

Audiences can expect music inspired by the ocean, sacred traditions, ancient poetry and the universal longing for peace, connection and belonging.

Ocean Contemplations will be performed at 7pm, Saturday July 25, Pottsville Beach Community Hall, 1 Tweed Coast Rd. Tickets are $15 prepaid via Humanitix, $20 cash at the door, free for children under 12. Enquiries: kalliopeontheshore@gmail.com or 0414 392 458

A Pottsville-based women's voice ensemble founded by local musician and educator Helen BubConnor. Photo Noel Hart

voices rise on the shore

The official NAIDOC Week 2026 poster

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Largest ocean (7)

Lover (7)

Set aside (7)

Frypan (7)

Pronoun (3)

(1,1,1)

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Calculator (6)

Bizarre (6)

Rough, harsh (6)

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Set

JUNIO

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

BUSINESS BEAT

How long have you been in the beauty world?

I have been a beauty therapist since I was 18 years old, so almost 40 years now. After having salons and working on my own and having a family, I felt the pull to come back into Murwillumbah and open a salon in the town I love and where the people are down-to-earth.

I wanted to provide a salon where people from all walks of life felt comfortable, a salon that provided quality treatments with friendly, professional staff.

What makes you good at your job?

I love it and have a lifetime of treatment skills and knowledge. I enjoy people, I try hard to listen to what people’s needs are and always try to fill those needs. I am empathetic and like a good laugh.

Best part about your job? The clients, and getting results that increase their self-esteem.

How do you know The Weekly works for promoting your business?

I have been advertising in The Weekly for about 23 years now. I still do print advertising as there is still a large, older cohort of people that don’t use social media.

I love that the paper goes around our entire shire – I often have clients come in with the ad cut out. It may be recent or they may have kept hold of it for over a year. You can’t do that with online advertising. People like something tangible to hold.

I like the fact that our paper concentrates on our area, so you know you are reading primarily about locally owned businesses.

How do you run a complicated business, on your own, efficiently and with minimum stress?

I have absolutely fantastic staff, Nicole and Harmonii are both an integral part of my team. I delegate where needed and if I am a bit overwhelmed, I only have to mention it and they will step up immediately. I have

certain days out of the salon to keep up with all the admin where there are less distractions.

What’s your favourite hobby?

Spending time with my family and four grandchildren. Beach time, swimming, reading and watching a good suspense show.

What’s the worst thing a customer could do? Not come back to us and let us know

Blues surprise Raiders

By Jo Kennett

TWEED COAST Raiders junior players got the thrill of a lifetime when their heroes from the Blues State of Origin dropped into training at Cabarita unexpectedly on Tuesday, June 30.

The Blues had been based at Kingscliff before heading to Brisbane for the Game 3 decider.

Tweed Coast Raiders Drew Lanston, one of the very few that had to keep the visit a secret, said Wade from NSW Rugby League had suggested the players visit Les Burger Field to meet the junior players.

“They needed a club close to Kingscliff and we are very grateful they sent

them here,’ Drew said.

“You can see how much it means to the young kids.

“It was supposed to be a surprise but somehow word got out.

“Everyone gets very excited seeing their heroes and there were even some adults in there. It was such a great afternoon.

“The whole team came and we had Nathan Cleary and we even had Reece Robson from Murwillumbah playing Bullrush with the young kids, taking tags off them. The kids were just so grateful.

“The surprise was to get them over there when the kids were training and have the guys just join in which they

did so it was great.”

Les Burger, who with the help of other club members and his family, built the field from the ground up, would have been thrilled.

if they weren’t happy about something. We can’t improve on something if we don’t know there is an issue. We are very approachable and always happy to listen.

The Cosmetic Tattoo and Beauty Bar, 97 Murwillumbah St, Murwillumbah. (This journalist is thrilled with the eyebrow

Madeleine Murray speaks with Kathy Ward, owner of The Cosmetic Tattoo and Beauty Bar in Murwillumbah.

Kathy Ward of The Cosmetic Tattoo and Beauty Bar. Pics Madeleine Murray

Nathan Cleary at Raiders

Future Blues hopeful Sidney Pitfield with Blues player Reece Robson (Reece is on the right) photo by Clem Jorss. INSET: A fan selfie with Ethan Strange

Tweed

Make

Try listing in our Classifieds Call our friendly team to get started: (02) 6672 4443

Position Vacant

Occasional Home Help. Some cleaning, vegetarian cooking (in a chemical free home), small errands as needed. 0467 848 819

Support Group

GROW Mental Health Program

A free peer support group, held in confidential settings, assisting people with their life’s difficulties. We welcome you to attend our weekly meetings on Mondays between 10am-12pm at the Anglican Church, Cnr Florence & Powell Streets, Tweed Heads. Refreshments are provided afterwards.

Scrap Metal

ME UP SCRAP

We collect white goods, heavy gauge steel,

machinery, trucks, cars and all metals including copper. We also collect batteries. You call, we collect! Contact Wayne Leveridge on (02) 5616 8017 or 0434 431 461 www.pickmeupscrap.com.au

Death Notices

Memorial Service

LYNNETTE FRANCES ‘LYNNE’ BECK

26.11.1937 ~ 14.06.2026

“At Peace Now”

Loved Wife of Don.

Beloved Mother and Mother-in-law of Liz & Glenn Chauvier and Allison & Michael Scott.

Loving Grandma of Claire & Rohan, Angus, Monique, Thomas & Jade and Rachel.

Dearly loved daughter of Hec (dec) & Ena (dec) Robertson.

Loved sister and sister-in-law of Nancy (dec) & Bill (dec)

Loving Memory of

Shirley Dods 08/07/1938 passed away on 26/05/2026

Beloved wife of Leonard John Loving mother of Terri Lee Remembered lovingly by George, friends and family Love you forever Rest in peace beautiful lady Private Cremation

Robert Goetz 01/07/2026

Donald James Boyce 24/06/2026

Robyn Millar 23/06/2026

BACON

BONE

CAMBIEN

GRIFFITHS David James 02/07/2026

FRANCIS

X Games gold for Chloe Clean sweep for the Raiders

By Jo Kennett

IT WAS the third clean sweep in a row for the Mustangs in Round 11 last weekend and the first for the Tweed Coast Raiders after the Blues Origin squad popped into training, which may have sprinkled some magic their way.

The Bilambil Jets played Northern United at Lismore, with the women’s tackle team going down 28-6.

The Jets Under 18s played the Tweed Coast Raiders and lost 30-0, while Northern forfeited in Reserve Grade.

At Lismore on Sunday, the Jets First Grade side pulled out a dominant performance to take down Northern 52-16, with no details available.

Cudgen played Kyogle at home with the ladies having a bye and the Under 18s getting a 34-6 win over the Turkeys.

The Hornets Reserve Grade side also had a blinder, getting up 36-4, while it was a 12-12 draw in First Grade.

Cudgen opened the scoring early with a try, but were down 12-10 with just ten minutes to go before Elliot Speed kicked a penalty goal to get the draw.

First Grade debutant Max Wood impressed in a strong performance. Max’s father, Peter, tragically passed away in April.

His mother, Joanne, commented online that Peter would have been so proud to see Max pull on the First Grade jersey. Congratulations to Max, and best wishes to the family.

Tweed Heads played Byron at Byron, kicking off with a 30-12 win in the LLT. The Under 18s also got the win 34-24 but Reserve Grade went down 22-10.

In the tackle the Seagulls ladies went down to the Byron ladies 18-16.

In First Grade the Seagulls dominated, with six tries, all converted by Oliver Singh, before Byron scored a late consolation try on the buzzer to finish 36-4.

Murwillumbah played Casino at Casino, putting on another great performance in all four grades.

First up the ladies tackle side took down the Cougars 28-4 and now sit on top of the ladder, before the Mustangs Under 18s side got the win

22-6. They are also on top of the ladder with Cudgen second and the Seagulls fifth.

The Mustangs reggies got a hard-fought 16-10 win and now sit in third place with the Jets in fourth and Cudgen in fifth.

In First Grade Murwillumbah took down their closest rivals with a convincing 39-22 victory and are looking like the team to beat this year.

After a difficult season, the Tweed Coast Raiders finally had some luck on Saturday against the Evans Head Bombers at home.

The Raiderettes were absolutely dominant in the LLT, winning 52-0 and sit in fifth place, with the Mustangs in third and the Seagulls in second.

The Raiders Under 18s had their best win of the season, getting up 30-0, before the Reserve Grade side got a hard-fought 36-20 win over the Bombers.

In First Grade, despite the Bombers spending much of the first half attacking the Tweed Coast line, the Raiders dominated, taking an 18-6 lead into half-time.

The Bombers came back with a couple of tries in the second half before Raiders winger Liam Foster went over on his ankle and went down with what many described as the worst fracture they had ever seen. We wish Liam all the best for a speedy recovery.

“It was a close one,” coach James Sheehan said.

“We got a couple of injured players back so that really strengthened up our middle.

“That one was for Liam Foster, he went off in the ambulance with a pretty bad compound fracture and there was no way we were going to lose after that happened.”

The Bombers came back with a try after the ambulances had left but the Raiders got the win 26-16.

By Jo Kennett

TWEED TEEN skateboarding star Chloe Covell has made history, winning gold in the Monster Energy Women’s Skateboard Street at the MoonPay X Games Chiba 2026 before adding bronze in the Street Best Trick event.

The 16-year-old produced a flawless performance on Saturday, July 4, to claim her sixth X Games gold medal, setting a new record for the most Women’s Skateboard Street gold medals in X Games history.

The victory moved Chloe ahead of Brazilian skateboarding great Leti cia Bufoni, who previously held the record with five Street gold medals.

Chloe’s mother, Julie, said the result capped an outstanding international tour that saw Chloe collect four medals across three major events.

“Chloe is very happy she got four med als,” Julie told The Weekly.

“She worked really hard in training lead ing into the competitions and throughout the practice sessions.

“It was a long few weeks with many back-to-back competitions, but she’s happy with the outcome and looking forward to the next one.”

Before competing in Japan, Chloe successfully defended her World Skate Olympic qualifier title in Rome, winning gold for the sec ond straight year after victories in both 2025 and 2026.

She then travelled to Sacra mento, where she claimed a sil ver medal, before finishing her X Games campaign in Chiba.

Julie said Chloe’s season is not over yet, with one final stop in New Orleans.

“Her team, New York, is equal first with Tokyo and hopefully her team can come away with a win in New Orleans,” she said.

Chloe has now amassed an incredible X Games record of six gold, two silver and three

bronze medals despite being just 16 years old.

Her rise through the sport

She made her X Games debut in Chiba in 2022 as a 12-year-old, winning bronze in the Women’s Street event before improving to silver later that year. In California in 2023, Chloe became the youngest X Games gold medallist in history at just 13 after winning the Women’s Skateboard

Although Chloe finished eighth at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games after attempting several high-risk tricks, she has bounced back in impressive

She has continued to dominate international street skateboarding, collecting more X Games titles and strengthening her reputation as one of the world’s

Chloe has also made the perfect start to her campaign for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. By defending her Women’s Street title at the World Cup in Rome, she moved to the top of the World Skate rankings.

With another record-breaking X Games gold now added to her collection, Chloe continues to establish herself as one of Australia’s brightest Olympic medal hopes for Los Angeles in 2028.

Future pro bodyboarders barrel into Duranbah

By Jonathon Howard

THE NEXT generation of Australia’s bodyboarding stars will descend on Tweed’s Duranbah Beach next weekend as the City of Gold Coast Future Pro’s hits the waves.

Around 50 of the sport’s brightest young riders, including competitors from Hawaii, will battle it out on Saturday and Sunday, July 11 and July 12, for the Australian leg of the International Bodyboarding Committee (IBC) Junior World Tour Rising Series.

The free spectator event will showcase high-performance bodyboarding across five divisions: Super Grommets (under 12), Grommets (under 14), Cadets (under 16), Juniors (under 19) and Girls (under 18)

Competitors are chasing valuable points towards qualification for the IBC Junior Men Grand Final in Spain this October.

Event organiser and Gold Coast Bodyboard

Club President Silas Ganciar said the Future Pro’s was much more than a junior competition.

“This event gives young athletes the opportunity to compete at an international level without leaving Australia and provides an important stepping stone towards a professional bodyboarding career,” Mr Ganciar said.

“People often hear about professional surfing, but bodyboarding also has a thriving international tour, and these competitors are the next generation of athletes aiming to become world champions.”

Mr Ganciar said Duranbah Beach, renowned for producing consistent, powerful waves, was

Golden Nuggett line up

THE COUNTDOWN is on to one of lawn bowls’ biggest events, with Club Tweed unveiling a star-studded international field for the 2026 Golden Nugget that promises four days of world-class competition at Tweed Heads South.

Running from July 27 to 30, the prestigious invitational singles tournament has assembled one of the strongest fields in its 40-year history, featuring a mix of decorated champions, rising Australian talent and international contenders eager to claim one of the sport’s most coveted titles.

Leading the charge is seven-time Australian Open champion Aron Sherriff, who headlines a field packed with proven winners.

Reigning Golden Nugget champion Jack

McShane returns to defend the title he captured in dramatic fashion last year, while two-time Golden Nugget winner Lee Schraner is back chasing a third crown.

Renowned singles specialist Cass Millerick and Club Tweed favourite Chloe Stewart will also be among the leading contenders, with Stewart looking to make the most of homegreen advantage in front of local supporters.

The 2026 tournament will also showcase the next generation of bowls talent, with an impressive group of first-time Golden Nugget competitors making their debut.

Among them is Australian Open Singles runner-up Tyson Wilson, alongside Tasmania’s

the perfect venue to showcase emerging talent.

“We’re expecting around 50 competitors from across Australia and overseas, including riders from Hawaii, and the standard is incredibly high,” he said.

“These young athletes have dedicated countless hours to their sport and this event gives them the chance to test themselves against some of the best junior bodyboarders in the world.”

The Australian event is the third international stop on the IBC Junior World Tour Rising Series, with competitors looking to earn enough points to secure a place in the world final in Spain.

Mr Ganciar encouraged locals and visitors to head to Duranbah Beach for what promises to be an exciting weekend of action.

“It’s completely free to watch and it’s a fantas-

Dylan Fisher, New Zealand representatives Aiden Takarua and Briar Atkinson, ACT’s Chloe Morrison, NSW bowlers Jessie Cottell, Samantha Noronha and rising talent Chanel Chakouch, Victoria’s Lisa Phillips, Switzerland’s Laura Butler and Malaysian representatives Nurul Alyani Binti Jamil and Muhammad Idham Amin Bin Ramlan.

Club Tweed’s bowls coordinator Emma Boyd said t he diverse field reinforces the Golden Nugget’s standing as one of the sport’s premier international events.

“We have competitors travelling from across Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia and Switzerland all to com pete at Club Tweed’s Golden Nugget event,” she told The Weekly.

“Over four decades, the Golden

tic opportunity to see elite junior bodyboarding up close,” he said.

“Duranbah is one of Australia’s premier bodyboarding waves and we’re looking forward to welcoming spectators to cheer on these talented young riders.”

Competition gets underway from July 11-12 at Duranbah Beach.

Nugget has built a reputation for producing unforgettable contests and crowning some of the biggest names in world bowls.

“This year’s edition is expected to continue that tradition, with established champions facing an ambitious wave of emerging stars in a ournament where every match carries high stakes.”

Ms Boyd said spectators are encouraged to attend throughout the event to witness some of the world’s best bowlers in action on Club Tweed’s renowned greens.

The 2026 Golden Nugget will be held at Club Tweed, Tweed Heads South, from July 27 to 30.

Chloe now holds the record for the most gold medals for a female street skater at the X Games

Raiders Ethan Ferguson scores

Chloe on her way to gold

Jaxon Cruickshank and last year's winner Ossian Mackenzie. Photo by Tim Oliver Photography

The Golden Nugget is back

Real Estate

FROM COAST TO COUNTRY

Cudgen Connection rezoning approved

By Jo Kennett

THE PROPOSED $300-million Cudgen Connection development on the Cudgen Plateau has been given a green light from the state government planning panel.

The proponents, partners Digital Infratech and Centuria Capital Group, were seeking to have the 5.7-hectare site at 741 Cudgen Road, next to the Tweed Valley Hospital, rezoned to construct a private hospital, university campus, mental health hospital, worker housing, childcare and retail to support essential workers, medical suites, a private medi-hotel and a research facility.

The Northern Regional Planning Panel has ruled that the rezoning of the site should be allowed, subject to amendments to the proponent’s planning proposal.

According to the record of the public decision published on July 6, the vote wasn’t unanimous.

“The Panel’s decision was 2:1 in favour, with Pat Miller considering the proposal should not be made, given: The Tweed Shire Council Mayor’s presentation made at the public briefing, noting concerns regarding the site falling outside of Council’s strategic planning area,” the decision, posted on the NSW Planning Portal website, stated.

There is also an amendment to change the Local Environmental Plan “because the Panel wishes to ensure that the primary uses of hospital/medical/education parentheses the basis of the zoning changes to special purposes) proceed prior to, or concur with, residential and

Open Homes

Saturday, July 11

Raine & Horne Jet

• 2981 Kyogle Road, Kunghur, 9–12pm

• 3 Panorama View, Kunghur, 9–12pm

• 20 Panorama View, Kunghur, 9–12pm

• 46 Brisbane St, Murwillumbah, 9.30–10am

• 629 Tumbulgum Road, Tyalgah, 10.30–11am

• 1243 Kyogle Road, Uki, 11.30–12pm

• 837 Nobbys Ck Rd, Nobbys Ck, 12.30–1.30pm

DJ Stringer

• 6/2 Surf St, Bilinga, 9–9.30am

• 2/118 Sunset Blvd, Tweed Heads West, 9–9.30am

supportive retail and commercial uses.”

The key amendment called for is a provision for affordable housing, which opponents say the applicant could not guarantee at the public meeting.

“The Panel also requires at least 75% of the dwelling as affordable rental housing to be managed by a not-for-profit agency for a period of at least 25 years,” the determination states.

Read from one of the directors

After five years compiling one of the most comprehensive development applications ever undertaken in Regional NSW, Cudgen Connection director Allan Larkin welcomed the Planning Proposal Authority’s decision to approve the rezoning of the land parcel at 741 Cudgen Rd Cudgen.

“It’s great to see common sense prevail in the planning panel’s decision, reflecting the underlying majority community support for the proposal,” said Larkin

“The Cudgen Connection team would like to pass on our sincere gratitude to Planit Consultancy in addition to the multitude of professional consultants who underwrote the scientific, planning & community benefit analysis of the initiative.

“The unwavering support and enthusiasm of the Cudgen Connectors community engagement program was infectious, and we look forward to working with these volunteers on delivering solid community benefit programs and facilities.

“We totally understand and support the sensitivities around the State

• 1033/18-20 Stuart St, Tweed Heads, 9–9.30am

• 2101/18-20 Stuart St, Tweed Heads, 9.30–10am

• 39/329 Golden Four Dr, Bilinga, 10–10.30am

• 54 The Quarterdeck, Tweed Heads, 10–10.30am

• 28/6-8 Thomson St, Tweed Heads, 10.15–10.45am

• 33/5 Island Dr, Tweed Heads, 11–11.30am

• 29 Townsend Cres, Terranora, 11–11.30am

• 5/18 Dutton St, Coolangatta, 11–11.45am

• 1 & 2/8 Triton St, Tweed Heads, 12–12.30pm

• 7/20 Dutton St, Coolangatta, 12–12.30pm

• 36 Peninsula Dr, Bilambil Heights, 1–1.30pm First National Murwillumbah

• 30 Riverbend Way, Murwillumbah, 9–9.30am

• 7 Central Parade, Murwillumbah,9–9.30am

Significant Farmland, with this decision not prejudicing the surrounding active farmland enterprises.

“The unique features, location, & unsuitability to farming of this noncontiguous land parcel ensures no domino effect will follow this unique decision.

“Once conditions of the rezoning are ratified, the next stage in the process is finalising the concept masterplan and producing a Development Control Plan. We envisage this stage will take approximately 18 months to finalise.

“We look forward to engaging with tenants and operators across the variety of proposed uses, and enabling the delivery of significant health, education & essential worker accommodation and associated facilities to support the growing needs of the Tweed region. “

Read the mayor’s response

The Tweed Shire Council mayor, Chris Cherry, had argued the proposed development would see more than 1,000 staff employed (after construction is completed) with accommodation for just over 300 planned.

She called it “an incredibly disappointing outcome for the Tweed after decades of promises from both sides of government that they would respect the protection of state significant farmlands.”

“This development has been foisted on us and we simply do not have the water supply for it,” Cr Cherry told The Weekly.

“We explained that to them in the public hearing so I am not sure how this development is going to get water.

• 25 Thomas Street, Bray Park, 9–9.30am

• 25 - 27 Irving St, Tumbulgum, 9.45–10.15am

• 2471 Kyogle Road, Terragon,10.15–10.45am

• 101 Smiths Creek Road, Uki, 10.45–11.15am

• 166 Kunghur Ck Rd, Kunghur Ck,11.30–12pm Schmith Estate Agents

• 6/13 Cabernet Ct Tweed Heads Sth, 9–9.30am

• 49 Dixon Street Coolangatta, 10–10.30am The Agency

• 11/106 Kennedy Drive, Tweed Heads West 9–9.30am

• 5/181 Kennedy Drive, Tweed Heads West 9.45–10.15am

• 14/2 Rosella Close, Tweed Heads Sth 10.45–11.15am

• 6 Ivory Crescent, Tweed Heads 11.45–12.15pm

“If the state government is going to approve things like this, against Councils strategic planning then hopefully they are going to fund the dam upgrade.”

The Kingscliff Residents and Progress Association (KRPA) had also spoken against the development at the public consultation two weeks before the decision was made public.

“A disappointing but not unexpected outcome, given how this has been playing out over some time now,” a spokesperson from the Kingscliff Residents and Progress Association.

“However, there is a lot more to come on this as the proponent is now required to submit an amended planning proposal, which will then be further assessed by DPHI before being presented for the Minister’s decision.

“We will not waste this time and will be following through with our elected representatives (whose silence remains deafening), the Premier and ministers to address this shambles of a process.”

Tate Brownlee

• 1055/20-22 Stuart St, Tweed Heads, 9–9:30am

• 2074/20 Stuart Street, Tweed Heads, 9–9:30am

• 108 Darlington Drive, Banora Point, 10–10:30am

• 3 Elm Place, Banora Point, 10–10:30am

• 38 Curtawilla Street, Banora Point, 10–10:30am

• 34/74 Greenway Dve, Banora Point, 10–10:30am

• 17/74 Greenway Drive, Banora Point, 10–10:30am

• 33 Liriope Street, Casuarina, 11–11:30am

• 5 Mount Bilinga Circuit, Bilambil, 11–11:30am

• 3 Avondale Drive, Banora Point, 11–11:30am

• 43 Henry Lawson Drive, Terranora, 12–12:30pm

• 37 The Hermitage, Tweed Heads Sth, 12–2:30pm

• 16 Bosun Boulevard, Banora Point, 12–12:30pm

• 109 Peninsula Drive, Bilambil Heights, 12-12:30pm

• 14 Valleyview, Terranora, 1-1:30pm

The preliminary masterplan for Cudgen Connection

336.40 sqm block with DA approved modern living home located just 5 minutes to the CBD of Murwillumbah, the opportunity to secure your new home has now become reality. These magni cent 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom residences are elevated with views and represent low maintenance living. Now is the opportunity to secure your brand-new turnkey house and land in the growing and popular town of Murwillumbah.

18 new homes available

PROPERTY FEATURES:

* Exposed aggregate driveway & turfing to entire lot

* Full timber paling fencing and landscaping package

* 2590mm elevated ceiling height to ground floor

* Quality floor coverings throughout

* Superior LED lighting package throughout the entire house (excluding garage)

* Designer Kitchen with 600mm stainless steel cooktop, oven & range hood

$1,130,000

* Overhead cupboards, stainless steel dishwasher

* 2 x split system air conditioners

* 20mm stone benchtops to kitchen and bathrooms

* Building approval and water application fees included

* Colourbond roof & barrier screens to opening windows & doors

* Ceiling fans in every bedroom, living area & alfresco

* 3000L water tanks

* Solar panels

WE ARE NOW LOCATED AT 1/42 WHARF STREET, TWEED HEADS Same great team, now in one location.

Caillon Place

6 Ivory Crescent, Tweed Heads

Luxury Living. Prime Position. Limited Opportunity.

A rare opportunity has arrived in the heart of Central Tweed Heads.

6 IVORY is the only brand-new apartment development currently available in central Tweed, now is the time to secure your place before it’s too late.

Demand is already strong and apartments are selling quickly, with no other major new unit developments expected to be completed in Tweed Heads over the next 12–18 months.

Featuring just 14 spacious two-bedroom residences, these architecturally designed apartments combine quality construction, premium fixtures and fittings, and stunning views in one unbeatable location.

Perfectly positioned only minutes from the beach, airport, shopping, dining and everything central Tweed has to offer.

• Building is now completed

• Spacious 2-bedroom residences with modern open-plan living

• Premium fit-out featuring quality fixtures, finishes and appliances

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• Only minutes to Gold Coast Airport and major transport connections

• An outstanding opportunity for both owner occupiers and investors

• Secure your apartment in Tweed Heads only new development available now.

Toby Sandell 0408 764 931 tobysandell@theagency.com.au

Jacinta Greentree 0474 556 231 jacintagreentree@theagency.com.au

5909 TWEED VALLEY WAY, MOOBALL NSW 2483

FOR SALE BY EXPRESSION OF INTEREST CLOSING: 1PM, THURSDAY 6 AUGUST 2026

• Rare Byron Hinterland Freehold Going Concern Hotel

• 9 x highly valuable Band 1 GME’s included on licence

• Generating ~$45,000* average weekly turnover across bar, bistro & gaming

• 20 minutes* from Byron Bay and 15 minutes* from Tweed Heads

• Heritage-character asset with 6 x accommodation rooms

• Turn-key offering requiring minimal capex expenditure

• Neighbouring an approved 261-lot master residential precinct

• Loyal local catchment & strong visitor trade from local tourism precincts

*Approx.

Mr Property Services

Waters

Banksia Waters - Tweed Heads

54 The Quarterdeck Tweed Heads

SPLENDID WATERFRONT LIVING - where memories are made'

Outstanding opportunity to immerse yourself into an enviable lifestyle from this well-appointed 4-bedroom residence anchored on a prime 989m2 waterfront allotment.

• Formal living & dining areas w/ plantation shutters

• Generous kitchen w/ stainless appliances

• Air-conditioned family room w/ high pitched ceiling

• Large air-conditioned main bedroom w/ bay window, mirrored robes, dressing area & ensuite

• 3 additional bedrooms (2 w/ built in robes)

• Covered entertainment area w/ sun blinds

RARE

• Oversized double automatic lock up garage w/ rear roller door plus heaps of room for additional cars, boat & caravan (on driveway & RH side of home)

• Impressive in-ground pool w/ expansive bathing areas (refer agent regarding pool fencing compliance)

• Fully fenced yard to water & street

• Solar panels (14) & battery storage

989m2 Waterfront Allotment Buyer Guide $2.250M

10:00-10:30am

David

0418 150 731

david@djstringer.com.au

TWO 3-BEDROOMS DUPLEX VILLAS

Units 1 & 2, 8 Triton Street Tweed Heads Landsize 754m2 (combined)

Enjoy the perfect balance of space, privacy and convenience from the choice of two 3-bedroom duplex villas which can be purchased jointly or individually – the choice is yours!

• Spacious (3) bedrooms, master w/ walk-through robe & ensuite

• Open plan living & dining area w/ air conditioning

• Well-appointed kitchen w/ gas cooktop & dishwasher

• Main bathroom, separate bath & separate WC

• Built-in robes & ceiling fans to all bedrooms

• Security screens throughout

• Private fully fenced yard with outdoor entertaining area

• Unit 1 has an additional pergola

• Automatic garage with internal access, plus parking for second vehicle

Guide Unit 1 - $995K Unit 2 - $995K

Saturday 12:00-12:30pm

Stringer 0418 150 731