TVW19Mar26MA001

Emotions run high at Tweed e-bike meeting

By Jonathon Howard

STORIES OF abuse, near misses, a lack of parents and authorities, were all evident as emotions were running high for about 100 residents who gathered at the Tweed Heads Civic Centre on Friday, March 13, to demand greater action and accountability for the ongoing impacts that e-bikes and e-motorbikes are having on the Tweed.

The E-bike Community Meeting was hosted by Member for Tweed, Geoff Provest, who was compiling feedback from residents to be taken back to the NSW Parliament for further discussion around regulation and enforcement.

Among those attending were Tweed-Byron Police District Superintendent Chris Schilt, Traffic and Highway Patrol Police, Tweed Mayor Chris Cherry, Tweed Shire Council General Manager Troy Green and Council’s Director Sustainable Communities and Environment Naomi Searle.

Police presented three different types of e-bikes at the meeting, ranging from a fully compliant model that’s legal in NSW, to high-powered versions that are illegal to ride unless on private property.

Officers demonstrated the differences between the e-bikes but also warned how easily these devices can be purchased online and modified.

One example discussed was the controversial Sur-Ron model, which police described as an electric motorbike often marketed online as an e-bike – advertising images for the Sur-Ron even show the bike being ridden on public roads albeit in China.

While most residents acknowledged that e-bikes and other electric mobility devices have an important role to play in transport, many speakers said a minority of riders were creating serious safety concerns and even a “gang-like mentality.”

Several attendees told the meeting that the police response to incidents or gangs of riders, were often slow or ineffective, and criticised what they described as a lack of action by state and federal governments to address the sale and modification of high-powered e-bikes.

“We are told not to take matters into our own hands, when we are being abused

by e-bike gangs in our communities on a daily basis, but where are the police?”

one resident told The Weekly following the meeting.

Questions were also raised about whether police could visit schools to check on bike racks and, if suitable, seize illegal e-bikes at their source – if they had been ridden to school for example.

The idea, which has gained support among local residents online, was raised by a local resident and taken to the meeting by The Weekly.

One resident told the paper that if an illegal bike had clearly been used to travel to school, police should be able to confiscate it and investigate further.

However, officers said enforcement could be difficult in this case, because police generally need to witness the rider committing an offence before taking action.

The officers acknowledged the bike rack suggestion could be considered in the future.

Parental control lacking

Many residents said the issue went beyond the legality of the e-bikes themselves and pointed to broader concerns about youth behaviour, lack of parental control and the ring leaders of youth gangs.

“Helmets are no longer being worn, the bikes are getting faster and faster, police cannot keep up, but residents are the ones dealing with the consequences,” said another attendee, citing the recent deaths of two children on an e-bike in Logan.

One local resident shared a recent incident in Casuarina, where she and her husband were riding their own legal e-bikes when a group of teenagers allegedly verbally abused and assaulted her husband by throwing pinecones and rocks along a section of the shared pathway between Coles Casuarina and Cabarita Beach.

Police were called but reportedly arrived more than 30 minutes later, by which time the youths had left the area.

The resident said video footage of the incident had been provided to police, but she had not heard any further update.

Others at the meeting suggested increased plain-clothed police patrols along popular coastal bike paths, including the shared path linking Kingscliff, Casuarina

and Cabarita, where groups of young riders are often seen.

‘Get out of their vehicles’

“Police need to get out of their vehicles and wear plainclothes, or even ride around the coast, to see what’s happening every day, especially at Pottsville, Cabarita and Casuarina,” said another resident.

“It’s not enough to cruise by in a police car, while the kids vanish, only to reappear and start the terrorising of others again, police need to be present all the time.”

Despite the concerns, many residents stressed they did not want to see responsible riders penalised.

Several attendees said they owned legal e-bikes and relied on them for transport, fitness and mobility.

One parent even stood to explain the process of buying a legal e-bike for his children but found it challenging when the market offers so many illegal versions.

Some warned that proposals such as registration or insurance requirements could unfairly impact law-abiding riders, particularly older residents who use e-bikes to stay active.

Others pointed out that existing cycling infrastructure in parts of the Tweed was inadequate, with narrow bike lanes and debris-covered road shoulders making shared pathways a safer option for many riders.

The meeting concluded with a call for stronger enforcement of existing laws, improved infrastructure and clearer regulation of high-powered electric bikes being sold online, as well as greater signage on footpaths that indicate speed limits.

Councillor raises question

In further news, Tweed Shire Councillor James Owen will raise a question on notice with council staff around dangerous riding on shared paths.

Cr Owen will ask what measures council can implement to manage dangerous and excessively fast bike and e-bike riding, notably on shared user paths, such as signage or other interventions or treatments?

Read more in next week’s edition and have your say: What methods do you think council could adopt to help slow fast e-bikes down? Send your thoughts and letters via email: edito@theweekly.net.au

An e-bike needs to accelerate due to weight

After reading your article in The Weekly about e-bikes (TVW, March 12, front page) I would like to have a say.

The people who are making the laws for these e-bikes most likely do not ride them themselves and are not aware of how heavy these bikes can be, so to get them going in a hurry like when you are trying to cross a busy road you cannot do it unless you have a throttle that goes at least 15 kilometres per hour.

Six kilometres per hour is a joke. It is hardly a slow walking pace and besides, what is the problem with a throttle that goes up to 25km/h. It does not make any difference if you are pedalling or not if that’s the speed limit.

Without a throttle it is almost impossible to ride my e-bike from a stationary position.

Some countries have higher speed limits, and it doesn’t seem to be a problem.

Traditional racing pushbikes go nearly 40km/h on the roads.

Why make laws that people will just ignore anyway because they are not practical.

The size of the motor should not make any difference if they are restricted to the speed limit, you need that extra torque power when going uphill especially when doubling up. I am for the age limit for the over 12-year-olds.

David Briggs, Tweed Heads South E-bike laws are simply unenforceable by police

Many residents can’t enjoy a peaceful walk along the footpaths anymore, especially if you have a young child or are walking the dog.

I have read the government wants to have a legal minimum age to ride an e-bike between 12 and 16.

In NSW that means they can fly along narrow footpaths in front of shops placing pedestrians in danger

– and this is to be totally legal.

Any laws they bring in for the youths will be unenforceable by police.

If the youths have an accident evading the police, there will be a public outcry.

A policeman was recently given a jail sentence for blocking the path of a stolen motorbike on a footpath resulting in the death of the motorcyclist. There were riots and demonstrations in Sydney when a 11-year-old saw a police van and ended up impaled on a fence.

Oliver Bode, Tweed Heads Control camphor without glyphosate

In response to your article titled ‘should we eradicate camphor Laurel’ (TVW, March 5).

The idea of eradicating camphor laurel from the ecosystem without a plan of management is hard to comprehend.

Do they plan on dousing the Tweed Shire with the proven toxic chemical Glyphosate in their management of the species?

Not only does this cause damage to an already degraded environment, but it also poses significant risks to humans and local fauna.

Glyphosate is a proven carcinogen, now found in our food, our air and our water – do we plan on adding to this through the eradication program and put our community at risk?

Although camphors pose a risk to the environment with their ability to completely transform ecosystems, they currently play a valuable role in creating habitat, food sources for local fauna, sequester carbon, provides shade and assists in converting bacterially dominated soil to fungal dominated soil, thus assisting in the rebalance of the ecosystem.

They are not just weed species. Camphors work with nature and are trying to heal country, like many common weeds, after we completely destroyed it through logging.

There is hope though, organizations

such as We Forest Earth provide ecosystem rebalancing without the use of toxic chemicals.

They use the species as a tool to convert camphor dominated forests into functioning healthy ecosystems while growing food and medicine in the process.

So, although there is a need for management of these species, there needs to be a management plan in place, and we should not be dousing the Tweed in glyphosate to get rid of them. We have options!

Rachael Sanderson, Murwillumbah Let’s petition for e-bike ban on footpaths

I live in Casuarina and cycle to the creek at Kingscliff every second day.

I have been doing this for nearly 20 years I would consider this a world class path.

In the last 12 months I cycle on my push bike and have been physically assaulted three times. I have reported this to the police.

Every time I cycle on the path I get verbally abused and feel intimidated by e-bike riders.

I have friends that don’t walk or cycle anymore because of the e-bike riders. The other thing that scares me is that some of these e-bikers are travelling 50 kilometres per hour.

I have a grandchild that I will not take on the path.

Just to conclude, I have had e-bike riders hit me in the head with rocks thrown at me and cans of drink. I have been yelled at and sworn at and I am 74 years old. I can’t believe that we can’t ban e-bikes from this path before someone is killed!

Tony Grana, Kingscliff Tweed spends $9.3 million for dogs, cats and livestock, but $0 for the homeless.

I have just learnt that a new $9.3 million facility referred to as the “Animal Management Facility’ was officially opened in South Murwillumbah

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This has come as great shock to me. For 24 years or more I have requested help for the homeless in Tweed.

All I have been requesting is nothing more than many towns and cities around Australia and the world, provide for the homeless. Just a safe place to sleep, have a meal and then move on until nightfall.

But my requests have always been met with, this is too hard, or no funding and any other excuse possible.

We have a new $9.3 million facility for dogs, cats and livestock. 40 purpose built dog kennels, 40 purpose built catteries, dedicated stables and paddocks plus exercise yards. And the facility includes significant acoustic treatment to reduce noise and provide a peaceful environment for the animals.

Are you kidding me?

So for the many who have been asking council to move “illegal campers”, perhaps you could now join me in requesting our homeless population are provided a humane facility.

All they would want is a place where they could be provided with a meal.

A place to sleep safely. Not a $9.3 million dollar facility. Just a basic facility. I believe they would be happy to move on during the day and look for a job. The old hospital could be a start. I know this working model has been successful in many countries.

I find our Tweed three levels of government an absolute disgrace and I am not finished yet.

John Lee OAM, president/founder

You Have A Friend, Tweed Heads Farmer watching the end of Tweed’s natural weedfree land

Very pleasing to note that Tweed Shire councillors are voting for stronger weed control and management of coastal littoral rain forests (TVW, February 20, page 8).

Sadly, councilors seem oblivious to the fact that the largest contributors to the shires’ wealth is from farmers,

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monetarily and environmentally. We work countless hours and spend huge dollars applying natural means and target-specific chemicals to control weeds on our farms.

Meanwhile, the verges of our Tweed Shire roads, creek/riverbeds, riparian zones, un-inspected non-rural properties, vacant land and state forests proliferate with uncontrolled weeds. Parramatta grass seeds were transported by every vehicle using Byrrill Creek Road (BCR) all summer.

Mature Parramatta grass pulls the teeth out of cattle so they can’t eat and have to be slaughtered long before a reasonable life. We farmers care about our stock.

Just in mid-February 2026, council slashed the verges of BCR for the first time and managed to slash areas of the declared noxious weed ‘tropical soda apple’, spreading it and Parramatta grass further.

It is believed there was no evidence of tropical soda apple on farming land in Byrrill Creek before 2025. It is now requiring weekly eradication.

It also seems that “the horse has bolted” with the giant devil’s fig outbreak, possibly vying with camphor laurels to take over existing state forests. For the ecologists, council, LLS etc, the longer you let the weeds get out of control, the more cost (to rate/ tax/levy payers).

Ultimately chemicals will be required to control them, ending up in the soil, water, ocean and food chain. If you choose to do nothing or do not allocate sufficient controls, we will have no natural weed-free land or state forests and you will be responsible for the annihilation of many native flora and fauna species.

R M Gault, member of NSW Farmers, Tweed

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Caravan park back on agenda

By Jo Kennett

A SCALED-DOWN proposal for a caravan park at 1183 Cudgera Creek, Cudgera, is set to be considered by Tweed Shire councillors during their monthly meeting on Thursday, March 19, with councillors being asked to decide whether to allow the developer to formally lodge a new development application.

Council staff are recommending that councillors refuse owner’s consent for the proposal, which would pave the way for an application to build a caravan park with eight long-term sites and 33 short-term sites, along with a clubhouse, swimming pool, pickleball court and associated infrastructure.

The request comes after a much larger proposal for the same rural property, which included 267 long-term sites and 12 short-term sites, was rejected in 2025 by the Northern Regional Planning Panel, a decision that has prompted a legal appeal in the Land and Environment Court.

The earlier development was refused for a range of reasons, including biodiversity impacts, land-use conflicts and the lack of owner’s consent from council for works affecting public land.

The latest proposal, lodged by Arbus Pottsville Pty Ltd, is significantly smaller but still requires council approval to undertake works in several areas of council-controlled land and road reserves before a development application can even be submitted.

The planned development would involve demolishing existing farm buildings and rural infrastructure on the 120-hectare property, located about four kilometres west of Pottsville.

Access to the site would require up -

grades to Cudgera Creek Road, the construction of a new bridge across Cudgera Creek, and improvements to Johansons Road, including widening and sealing the currently unsealed road.

The proposal also includes installing a new water main connecting to infrastructure in Tom Merchant Drive, along with internal access roads, landscaping and a private wastewater treatment system.

Council’s roads and stormwater unit has indicated it has no technical objection to the access and infrastructure works, provided the developer covers all costs associated with road upgrades, land transfers and ongoing maintenance.

However, council’s sustainability and environment unit has raised significant ecological concerns.

Officers warn the proposed access works and bridge crossing could impact an important riparian corridor along Cudgera Creek, which forms a key wildlife movement pathway and contains habitat for threatened species.

The area also includes vegetation associated with the endangered ecological community known as Lowland Rainforest on floodplain, which is protected under

Land Services

state and federal environmental laws. Council staff say the biodiversity assessment submitted with the proposal is unreliable and outdated, with inaccuracies in mapping threatened plant species and insufficient analysis of impacts on wildlife movement and habitat connectivity.

They also note that threatened flora, including the species Acacia bakeri (Marblewood), occurs close to the proposed crossing point.

Because of these unresolved environmental issues, staff are recommending councillors refuse the request for owner’s consent, which would prevent the developer from lodging the new development application.

Even if consent were granted, council notes that the project would still need to undergo a full development assessment, including public notification and further environmental review.

The development has an estimated cost of about $25 million.

YOUR THOUGHTS: Would you welcome a scaled down caravan park at this site in Cudgera? The Weekly is interested in your thoughts and letters via email: editor@theweekly.net.au

The image above shows the site at 1183 Cudgera Creek, Cudgera, where the developer is applying for owner's consent for a caravan park via Tweed Shire Council.

Whoa back on busy road

ONE OF Tweed’s busiest roads, Tweed Valley Way, will have its 60 kilometre per hour (km/h) speed zone extended to improve safety at the intersection with Clothiers Creek Road at Condong, following seven reported serious crashes in the past five years.

The 60km/h zone will now extend along Tweed Valley Way to around 300-metres north of the Clothiers Creek Road intersection.

Nightworks are scheduled for March 24, weather permitting, to update the signage.

The news comes as a relief to many truck drivers and motorists who regularly navigate the busy intersection of Clothiers Creek Road and Tweed Valley Way, where concerns about safety have been growing for years.

Some drivers have called for traffic lights, others for a roundabout, but Tweed Shire Council says slowing vehicles from 80km/h approaching the intersection is the most effective immediate step.

Council said the new speed limit will take effect once the new signs are installed.

Council manager of roads and stormwater Danny Rose acknowledged the collaboration between council and Transport for NSW in bringing about the change.

“Road safety is one of our highest priorities at Tweed Shire Council,” Mr Rose said.

zone review by Transport for NSW has given us a tangible way to make that section of Tweed Valley Way safer for everyone.”

Transport for NSW determines speed zones on all public roads across the state.

While councils cannot set speed limits themselves, they can request reviews, as council did for this section of Tweed Valley Way.

“The Tweed Valley Way intersection with Clothiers Creek Road has seen some serious crashes in recent years and we expect this small change in speed limit to make a big difference,” Mr Rose said.

According to the International Transport Forum’s Speed and Crash Risk report, even modest reductions in speed can deliver significant safety benefits.

In fact, a 10 per cent reduction in average driving speed can lead to a 38 per cent drop in road deaths and a 27 per cent reduction in serious injuries.

“Managing speed effectively is one of the most practical ways we can improve road safety and strengthen the liveability of our communities,” Mr Rose said.

YOUR THOUGHTS: Do you welcome the slower approach to Condong, or would you have liked to see a roundabout installed? The Weekly is eager to hear your thoughts and letters via email: editor@theweekly.net.au

Preschools plea for vital wage funding

By Jonathon Howard

COMMUNITY PRESCHOOLS across the Tweed are increasingly desperate for better funding and wages for our hardworking teachers and educators, after the state government rejected their proposal for increased financial support.

Educators at centres including Tyalgum Community Preschool and last year Possums Community Preschool say the current funding model is leaving many small community-run preschools struggling to remain viable while trying to pay competitive wages.

The calls come after the NSW Government instead announced a new initiative, Expanding Quality Access, which offers optional funding for community preschools that wish to transition into a long day care model.

The $100 million program is financed through the NSW Childcare and Economic Opportunity Fund and is designed to help centres extend operating hours or cater for younger children.

But local educators say the initiative does not address their core concerns about pay and conditions.

Tyalgum Community Preschool director Tracey McCarthy said preschools had been negotiating for months with the Independent Education Union of Australia (IEU) to try to secure improved funding.

“Local community preschools are still trying to improve funding, wages and conditions,” she told The Weekly.

“After months of bargaining with our union, the IEU, the NSW Government has rejected our proposal for increased funding to help you get the wages we deserve.”

Ms McCarthy said that educators were disappointed the government had declined to

increase funding despite being the primary funding body for community preschools.

“They refuse to take responsibility as the main funding body for community preschools in NSW,” she said.

“The Expanding Quality Access program, announced by the NSW Government on 16 September, won’t fix the problem.

“We need the NSW government to stand with community preschools and pay their teachers and educators what they deserve.”

She said small rural centres were feeling the pressure and their future could be at risk.

“Tyalgum Community Preschool is doing it tough under the safety net funding, and it feels like the department are trying to close us down,” Ms McCarthy said.

Community preschools are typically not-forprofit services that provide early learning programs, often in smaller regional towns where access to childcare options can be limited.

To raise awareness of the issue, Tyalgum Community Preschool had invited the community to attend a “Wear It Pink” day at the centre on Wednesday, March 18.

Ms McCarthy said the event was intended to show support for local preschools and the educators who work in them.

Tyalgum Community Preschool

Tweed Heads Medicare Urgent Care Clinic

NOW OPEN

7 DAYS

As your local Labor MP I’m proud to be delivering on my election commitment for a Medicare Urgent Care Clinic in the Tweed region.

The Medicare Urgent Care Clinic is located at Tweed Health for Everyone Superclinic, 33/35 Corporation Circuit Tweed Heads South.

This means you can get the free, fully bulk billed, urgent care you need.

Federal Member for Richmond

By Jonathon Howard

TWEED VALLEY Hospital’s emergency department (ED) has set a new record after receiving its highest patient number on record and cementing its position as the North Coast’s busiest hospital in 2026.

The latest Bureau of Health Information (BHI) Healthcare Quarterly report shows the hospital received 15,281 ED attendances during the first quarter of 2026, an increase of 0.9 per cent (133 patients) compared to the same period last year.

Despite the heavy demand, the hospital delivered strong performance in patient care.

More than eight in 10 patients (80.8 per cent) began treatment on time, and 79.5 per cent were discharged within four hours of arrival.

Ambulance transfers to ED staff also met the benchmark for 80 per cent of patients within 30 minutes.

Elective surgeries at Tweed Valley Hospital also continued to rise, with a total of 1,016 procedures completed, a 6.6 per cent increase (63 surgeries) on the previous year.

Meanwhile, nearby Murwillumbah & District Hospital experienced a noticeable drop in ED attendances, with 4,766 patients, 11.7 per cent fewer (629 patients) than the same quarter in 2025.

However, performance indicators remained strong, with 90.9 per cent of patients started treatment on time and 91.1 per cent were discharged within four hours – the best result among NSW hospitals of a similar size.

Ambulance transfers met the 30-minute benchmark for 98 per cent of patients, and elective surgeries rose by 29.1 per cent (72 procedures) to a total of 319, with 92.2 per cent of planned

surgeries performed on time.

All urgent surgeries were completed on schedule.

Northern NSW Local Health District director of clinical operations, Lynne Weir, highlighted ongoing efforts to improve patient care across the district.

“We’ve been focusing on a range of strategies to enhance the timeliness of care for patients in our emergency departments,” Ms Weir said.

“This includes escalating patient flow, increasing bed capacity, prioritising discharges, and supporting care pathways both within hospitals and in the community to reduce avoidable ED visits.”

Ms Weir also welcomed the opening of the district’s second Medicare Urgent Care Clinic in Tweed Heads in December 2025, following the Lismore clinic in November 2023.

“These clinics provide non-urgent care in a GP setting, easing pressure on our busy emergency departments so clinicians can focus on patients with higher-acuity needs,” she said.

Residents are reminded that if an illness or injury is not serious or life-threatening, they can call Healthdirect on 1800 022 222 for 24hour telephone advice from a registered nurse.

By Jonathon Howard

PLANS TO raise the wall of Clarrie Hall Dam by 8.5 metres are moving closer to a final decision, with Tweed Shire Council expecting planning approval for the water security project by June this year.

Councillors and the community will receive an update on the major water security project during their monthly meeting on Thursday, March 19, with Cr Kimberly Hone also questioning why the process is taking so long.

The dam wall raising would increase storage capacity from 16,000 megalitres to about 42,300 megalitres or almost triple the dam’s capacity and extend the Tweed’s water security supply until 2065.

Council’s Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the project was lodged with the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure in September 2024 following years of environmental, engineering and cultural heritage studies.

Since then, council has provided further reports addressing issues raised during the public exhibition period, including a Response to Submissions Report in December 2025 and additional hydrology information in January 2026. The planning department is now expected to issue draft project conditions in March 2026 for council to review and negotiate, with a final determination on the project anticipated by June 2026.

“The dam raising project is considered State Significant Infrastructure, meaning it must undergo a detailed planning and environmental assessment process before construction can begin,” council’s report read.

Planning work for the project began more than a decade ago. In 2015, Tweed councillors adopted raising the dam wall as the preferred option for securing the shire’s future water supply after reviewing a range of alternatives.

Environmental studies began in 2016, including year-long flora and fauna surveys to capture seasonal changes in the surrounding ecosystem.

The EIS examines potential impacts on areas including aquatic ecology, biodiversity, dam safety, water quality, cultural heritage and traffic during construction.

During the public exhibition period in late 2024, twenty-two submissions were received from community members and stakeholders.

“Land acquisition for the project is also almost complete,” council’s report read. “Negotiations with 16 affected property owners began in 2016, with all but one property now acquired or under agreement.”

Part of the proposal also involves revoking a small portion of land from Mount Jerusalem National Park and council is working with the National Parks and Wildlife Service to identify land transfers as environmental compensation.

Meanwhile, council is preparing a detailed business case and delivery plan for the project, which will help secure funding from state and federal governments.

The most recent estimate places the total project cost at about $304 million, including contingency, escalation and around $50 million in biodiversity offsets.

Council’s long-term financial planning currently assumes 50 per cent of the project funding will come from government grants.

If approved and fully funded, construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2032.

Tweed Valley Hospital's ED received more than 4000 more patients than Lismore Hospital in the last quarter, according to the latest BHI report

by Jo Kennett

Tweed unit gutted Record marine rescues

By Jo Kennett

MARINE RESCUE NSW volunteers across the Northern Rivers experienced their busiest February on record, completing 40 search and rescue missions, including 22 emergency responses, and safely returned 94 people to shore. It was the region’s strongest February performance, surpassing the 34 missions conducted in 2023.

The location of highest demand was Point Danger with 20 missions (Ballina had seven, Brunswick had six) with our amazing local volunteers out on the water, mostly on weekends, saving lives.

Volunteer crews from Marine Rescue NSW completed 404 search and rescue missions across the state in February, including 140 emergency responses, safely returning 847 people to shore. Most issues were engine, battery and fuel problems and preventable.

The February total brings the number of missions performed over summer (December to February) to almost 1,700, highlighting the sustained demand placed on volunteers during the peak summer period.

Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Todd Andrews said while volunteers stand ready to respond around the clock, many incidents could have been avoided with better preparation.

“February was another busy month for our volunteers, who responded to 404 incidents across NSW, including life-threatening emergencies,” Commissioner Andrews said.

“Sixty per cent of responses were for engine, battery and fuel issues. These are largely preventable problems. Boaters must ensure their vessel is properly maintained, carry sufficient clean fuel including a reserve, and check their battery before heading out.

“There is a fine line between a great day on the water and a dangerous situation. Preparation and planning are critical.”

Crews responded to a dozen capsized vessels during the month and were involved in numerous multi-agency missing person searches including along the Northern NSW coastline, on waters near Forster and off Maroubra as well as an intensive night search on Lake Jindabyne where three kayakers were located safe and well on an isolated island.

Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie was again the busiest unit in the state, completing 61 search and rescue missions last month.

Across the Illawarra, crews were also in high demand, completing 46 search and rescue missions, equalling the region’s February record set last year.

Commissioner Andrews said Marine Rescue NSW radio operators played a vital role in keeping boaters safe.

“In February, our radio operators managed 18,864 calls, including nine MAYDAYs and five PAN PANs, and kept watch over 24,241 people on board 7,322 vessels that had Logged On.

“Logging On is quick, simple and could save your life. Boaters can Log On 24 hours a day via the free Marine Rescue NSW app or on VHF Channel 16.

“When you Log On, our volunteers monitor your safe return. If you become overdue, a search can be initiated without delay.

“It only takes a minute to Log On, but it can save precious time in an emergency.”

Commissioner Andrews urged boaters not to become complacent with just under seven weeks still to run in the boating season.

“Whether you are fishing offshore, crossing a bar, or enjoying time on enclosed waters, always wear a lifejacket, check the weather forecast and conditions, ensure you have the required safety equipment on board and make preparation part of every trip,” he said.

“Marine Rescue NSW volunteers are ready to respond at any hour, but we would much rather see everyone return home safely without needing our assistance.”

A TWEED Head unit has been destroyed by fire and smoke on Monday, March 9, with residents in the unit block forced to evacuate, but fortunately no one was injured.

At approximately 11:10pm, firefighters from Fire and Rescue NSW Banora Point and Tweed Heads responded to reports of a unit fire on Beryl Street, Tweed Heads.

On arrival, crews were met with a well-developed fire on the second storey of a multi-tenancy unit block.

Firefighters decided to attack the blaze from inside, working through thick smoke and poor visibility to locate the seat of the fire.

Thanks to the crews’ rapid actions, the fire was brought under control before it could spread further to other units in the building.

Unfortunately, the building’s main switchboard was damaged by fire, leaving a number of residents and commercial tenants without power.

Thankfully, no injuries were reported at the time but the unit was gutted.

Police are currently investigating the cause of the fire.

Marine Rescue Point Danger crew members sharpen their navigation skills

Firefighters at the Tweed unit blaze Photo Fire and Rescue Banora Point The unit power box was damaged in the fire

No pedals e-bikes seized

By Jo Kennett

TWEED POLICE have seized two e-bikes with no pedals which are illegal in NSW, in the latest Operation Cyclesafe crackdown run on Wednesday, March 11.

At about 5.40pm, a 14-year-old boy was seen riding along Leisure Drive, Banora Point. Following inquiries the bike was found to have no pedals. Later that day, at about 7pm, police spoke with a 15-year-old boy riding a bicycle along the main street of Pottsville. The bike was also found to have no pedals. Both riders are deemed as unlicenced, with the bikes being classed as unregistered/uninsured.

Police have seized the bikes with an appli -

cation being made for them to be forfeited to the Crown.

Operation Cyclesafe saw 14 people receive warnings for failing to wear an approved and properly fastened bicycle helmet. Six others were issued infringement notices for failing to wear an approved bicycle helmet.

Police also spoke to a number of young people educating them on e-bike laws.

Two rescued in unit fire

Emergency services responded to reports of a unit fire in the Kingscliff area just before 9pm, with Fire and Rescue NSW crews called in from Kingscliff, Tweed Heads and Banora Point, alongside NSW Ambulance and Tweed Police.

On arrival crews faced a three-storey building with a top unit, well alight, with visible flame coming from the roof and all windows.

While liaising with police who were already on the scene, it was made apparent that there were still two people unaccounted for in the opposite unit.

Firefighters and police quickly removed the occupants and began a fire attack on the unit. The fire was quickly extinguished by crews,

but roof collapse and concerns about structural integrity made it difficult to fully extinguish all hotspots.

All occupants on scene were accounted for and treated by NSW ambulance, with one being transported to hospital for further observation.

Local residents, including one who was in the building when the fire broke out, took to social media to thank firefighting crews for their work.

One of the seized e-bikes with no pedals

TWO PEOPLE had to be rescued from a unit block after the unit opposite them caught fire on Friday, March 13.

The unit fire in Kingscliff

Photo Fire and Rescue Kingscliff

Act now for flood funding Rolling Sets wants to return to Tweed

By Jonathon Howard

FLOOD AFFECTED homeowners are being urged to act quickly, with the deadline fast approaching to apply for grants under the Resilient Homes Program.

Senior program manager Jane Holden recently spoke with The Weekly to update readers on the program’s progress and remind residents that Tuesday, March 31, is the final day to lodge an initial application for assistance to renovate, raise, relocate or remove a flood-impacted home.

“We’re calling for last applications now — March 31 is the final day you can submit the initial application,” Ms Holden said.

The program, jointly funded by the state and federal governments, is designed to reduce flood risk by helping residents move homes out of flood zones, elevate them above flood levels or remove them entirely.

Ms Holden said the program had made strong progress across the region.

“The aim is to relocate or remove 1,000 homes and so far we’ve settled 781 properties, including 141 in the Tweed, and approved 257 home-raising or retrofit grants, with 53 of those in the Tweed,” she said.

Once approved, homeowners can access grants of up to $100,000 for works such as raising or retrofitting homes following inspection and assessment reports.

“We’ve also increased the grant amount by $20,000 to help cover design costs and the development application process, including obtaining multiple quotes for the work,” Ms Holden said, acknowledging the cost increases in the building sector.

The program also includes a co-contribution scheme designed to boost the amount available for building works.

“What we have is a co-contribution mod-

el, which means if a homeowner contributes funds, the government will match it dollar for dollar,” she said.

“In some cases, homeowners can receive up to $220,000 if they contribute $50,000.

“There’s also a waiver of that contribution requirement for concession card holders.”

While the program is well advanced, Ms Holden acknowledged that completing the work has not been without challenges.

“Any building project is complex, and attracting builders has been difficult across the region,” she said.

“But we’ve been actively reaching out and advertising for trades, and we are seeing more people register.

“At a recent meeting in Murwillumbah, eight builders signed up to take part.”

She said the program team is working closely with homeowners to help them navigate the process.

“Building projects require a few steps, and our team is committed to helping people through that process, including working with council and community groups,” she said.

Removing flood-affected homes from high-risk areas has also been a major focus of the program.

“One of the challenges is that we have a lot of houses that need to be removed from the floodplain,” Ms Holden said.

“Innovation has been key. We held an auction of 150 houses and 42 were sold for relocation, which is a really positive outcome.”

She said the team also works with people who purchase buyback homes to ensure the buildings are ultimately removed from flood-prone land.

“Anyone who has purchased a buyback house, we reach out to them and work with the new owner to ensure the house is removed,” she said.

With the program scheduled to wrap up on June 30, 2027, Ms Holden stressed for anyone who may still be eligible to get in touch before the March deadline.

“People who haven’t yet made an application should contact our team and we will help them work through the process,” she said.

“If you’re in doubt about whether you qualify, or you have questions, please contact us before March 31 — it’s the final date for applications.”

For more information search Resilient Homes NSW online, or phone: 1800 844 085

BLUESFEST MAY have fallen into liquidated, but festivals remain popular with Rolling Sets Music Festival planning a return to Ebenezer Park at Tweed Heads in November 2026, pending Tweed Shire Council’s approval.

Following a successful Rolling Sets festival in 2025, headlined by Hilltop Hoods, that drew around 10,000 attendees, organisers are hoping to expand the festival to accommodate up to 12,000 music fans this year.

The 2025 festival was widely praised, according to council’s report to be presented to councillors during their monthly meeting this week.

Tweed Police also reporting “good crowd behaviour and minimal disruption to the local community”.

Some minor issues were noted, including noise complaints from nearby residents, small amounts of damage to park infrastructure, and last-minute adjustments to on-site structures.

“Event organisers have since been working with council to address these concerns and improve coordination for 2026,” council’s report read.

Council’s report said the festival aligns with the Tweed’s vision for thriving, creative communities and supports local culture, outdoor recreation, and tourism.

“Rolling Sets is a vibrant, community-focused event that showcases the Tweed as a destination for music, arts, and culture,” council’s report read.

While a full event assessment is still underway, council has provided in-principle consent for the festival to proceed.

This step allows organisers to begin planning, including securing performers and vendors, but does not constitute full approval until all event documentation such as noise and traffic management plans are submitted and reviewed.

Rolling Sets was a hit and is applying to return in November 2026

The 2022 flood was one of the worst in the Tweed's history - but support is still available

$30,000 in prizes: the Wollumbin Art Award is back

Artists from across the region are invited to enter the 2026 Wollumbin Art Award, the biennial prize run by Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre that has become one of the most anticipated events on the regional arts calendar. Named after the mountain that watches over the Gallery, the award celebrates the creativity and diversity that makes this region special. Now in its latest edition, it continues to draw entries from both emerging talent and established artists looking to show their best work.

With $30,000 in total prizes, the Wollumbin Art Award is open to artists aged 18 and over from across the Tweed, Ballina, Byron, Kyogle, Scenic Rim, Richmond Valley, Lismore and Gold Coast City local government areas. Any medium is welcome — painting, photography, sculpture, digital media, installation — and artists can submit up to 2 works.

Help protect our threatened Beach Stone-curlews

A Beach Stone‑curlew chick has been sighted on the beach at Hastings Point, and Tweed residents are being urged to take extra care around the Critically Endangered young bird.

Regular visitors may have seen the chick being raised inside the enclosure at Cudgera Creek Park. It has now begun moving out to feed on the beach — a critical stage in its development when it cannot fly and is especially vulnerable to dogs and other threats.

In NSW, species listed as Critically Endangered are at extreme risk of extinction unless they receive strong protection. Council is asking everyone to give the adult birds and their chick plenty of space so they can feed, rest and stay safe.

Council’s Pest Animals and Wildlife Protection Program Leader, Pamela Gray said:

“Although the chick is now feeding on its own, it is still getting its adult plumage and remains extremely vulnerable. This young bird will not be able to fly for another 4 weeks, making it particularly at risk from off-leash dogs.”

Prize categories are:

• $15,000 Wollumbin Art Award, plus a 2-week residency at the Gallery’s Nancy Fairfax Artist in Residence Studio

• $10,000 Bundjalung Award for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, plus a solo exhibition at the Gallery

• $5,000 Emerging Artist Award

Entries open 16 March and close 1 June 2026. The entry fee is $35 per work. Finalist works will be on show at Tweed Regional Gallery from 29 August to 15 November 2026.

In addition, young artists aged 5–17 can also enter the Wollumbin Youth Art Award — a chance to show work in a professional gallery setting. Entry for this award is free.

Enter at gallery.tweed.nsw.gov.au/whats-on/ prizes-awards

Council is encouraging dog owners to help protect the birds by following all signage around Beach Stonecurlew habitat.

Dog owners can help by:

• respecting dog-prohibited zones, especially near nesting or feeding areas

• giving shorebirds plenty of space, even if chicks aren’t visible

• following all signs marking sensitive wildlife areas. These simple actions make a big difference in helping threatened species like the Beach Stonecurlew survive. For more information visit tweed.nsw. gov.au/bush-stone-curlews

Last week, we each used

Council trivia

Did you get last week's question right?

Answer: C was correct.

Council supports more than 90 local clubs across the Tweed from AFL and cricket to mountain biking and equestrian. We own the land and manage club use of the grounds, helping create more opportunities for people of all ages to stay active, healthy and connected. We’re also investing in new sport and recreation facilities to support our growing population and make it easier for families, kids and clubs to get outdoors and have fun. These projects are guided by Council’s Open Space and Active Recreation strategies, which shape how and where new spaces are delivered. We’re proud of the progress so far and excited for what’s ahead.

Learn more at tweed.nsw.gov.au/parks-recreationstrategic-planning.

Read next week's edition for a new question.

In brief ...

Last chance to have your say on single use materials and packaging policy

Community feedback on Council’s Single Use Materials and Packaging Policy is open until 4 pm Wednesday 25 March.

The draft policy proposes replacing single use items like cups, cutlery, straws and takeaway containers at places and events managed or supported by Council, with a gradual phase-out of these items over a 3 year period.

The policy and implementation guide are available online or upon request at a Council office. Feedback can be submitted via Council's engagement site at yoursaytweed.com.au/single-use-materials-policy

after what makes the Tweed the Tweed.

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 and to care for its traditional Country in accordance with its lore, customs and traditions.

Gallery visitor with Mick Stovin’s Reflections of gilded wisdom 2024, at the finalist exhibition of the 2024 the Wollumbin Art Awards. (Photo by Sally Singh)

Beach Stone‑curlews. (Photo by Susan Monkley)

The draft policy supports the use of reusable items at Council land and venues and sponsored events.

Soft plastic recycling update

Soft plastic recycling remains one of the most common waste related enquiries we receive. Many residents want to know when services will return and what Council can do to support future recycling options.

Soft plastics are plastic items that can be scrunched into a ball in your hand.

REDCycle’s collapse in 2022 paused soft plastic recycling nationwide after the program was overwhelmed by the volume of materials collected. Since then, supermarkets have been working together to process the backlog and trial a slow restart of collections at selected supermarkets in Melbourne, Sydney and South East Queensland. While these trials are expected to expand to the Tweed, there is currently no confirmed timeframe.

Right now, there are limited cost-effective options for soft plastic recycling. Some councils in NSW participate in a program that collects soft plastics via yellow recycling bins, but Tweed’s waste contractors do not have infrastructure to support this option. Another model available in some areas is a home collection program for difficult-to-recycle items. Home collection program along the Tweed Coast

Some residents along the Tweed Coast may be able to access ReSmart’s user-pays doorstep collection of difficult-to-recycle items, including soft plastics. Check whether your address is within their service area at: resmart.co/where-we-collect

Tips to avoid soft plastics

Reducing our reliance on soft plastics is one way we can make a difference while national recycling solutions continue to develop. Consider:

• reducing packaging by buying in bulk

• minimising cling wrap by using reusable containers or beeswax wraps

• choosing products with minimal or sustainable packaging.

Council continues to advocate to State and Federal governments for stronger packaging rules and better support for regional soft plastic recycling programs. We will keep the community updated as new opportunities arise.

Celebrating harmony and belonging – Tweed Welcomes Refugees

This week communities across Australia celebrated Harmony Week (Monday 16 – Sunday 22 March 2026), a time to reflect on the spirit of inclusion, respect and belonging that brings us together.

Here in the Tweed, we want to shine a light on the volunteers at the heart of this spirit — those who show up, lend a hand and help others find their place. Programs such as Tweed Welcomes Refugees and Northern Rivers for Refugees rely on volunteers who give their time, energy and compassion to support new residents and nurture a welcoming community. Tweed Welcomes Refugees (TWR) is supported by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and plays a vital role in helping new arrivals settle into life in the Tweed but it’s the volunteers who make this possible.

From the moment new residents are welcomed into the Tweed, volunteers are there — greeting them with warmth and dignity, helping them navigate their new surroundings, and offering practical support. Volunteers step in to assist with housing arrangements, school enrolments, English classes, local orientation, transport and the small but meaningful details that help someone feel at home. It’s these everyday actions, offered quietly and wholeheartedly, that help people not just settle but truly belong.

TWR’s resettlement coordinator, Claudia Gross, said:

“Once again we have been entrusted to welcome and support a family who was in need of safety. The smiles on their faces when they arrived at the airport earlier this month will live with me always. Already they are finding their way around on public transport and practicing their English. We are very grateful to the many locals who have made them feel welcome and offered a friendly hand in various ways.”

Harmony Week reminds us of the diversity that enriches communities across Australia and encourages ongoing reflection on the values that unite us. Through acts of inclusion, kindness and support — particularly from volunteers — our community continues to strengthen its shared commitment to ensuring everyone feels they belong.

Marked annually on 21 March, the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination prompts reflection on the reality that racism still affects people in Australia today. Building a community free from racism is a shared responsibility — shaped by the way we speak, the way we listen, and the way we support one another.

To learn more about Tweed Welcomes refugees, visit tweedwelcomesrefugees.org/

To learn more about Harmony Week, visit harmony. gov.au/

To learn more about the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, visit humanrights. gov.au/

Final days to have your say on bush fire risk management plan

Time is running out to provide feedback on the draft Far North Coast Bush Fire Risk Management Plan, which will guide how fire agencies and land managers protect people, properties and communities over the next 5 years.

Using the latest science and modelling, the risk of bush fires has been mapped across the Far North Coast. The draft Bush Fire Risk Management Plan explains the risk and sets out the plan to manage the risk.

Have your say before 5 pm Tuesday 31 March 2026 at: rfs.nsw.gov.au/plan-and-prepare/managing-bushfire-risk/bush-fire-management-committees/farnorth-coast

Help us tell the stories behind the lens

Tweed Regional Museum is inviting community members to help unlock the secrets of an extraordinary local photographic archive, the Ray Sharpe collection.

Ray Sharpe spent decades capturing the people, places and everyday moments that shaped life in the Tweed from the 1960s through to the 1990s. When he passed away in 2023, he left behind more than 150,000 negatives, an intimate visual record of a community across time.

Ray’s love of photography began early. He picked up his first camera at just 16 in Coolangatta, later working alongside Fred Lang at the Currumbin Bird Sanctuary and serving as a photographer for the Daily News across the border. A dedicated member of the Tweed Heads Historical Society, Ray donated cameras from his personal collection and, in 2019, entrusted the Museum with the full archive of his negatives. Many of those images remain a mystery. Faces without names. Streets without addresses. Events without dates. And that is where the community comes in.

Starting this month, Tweed Regional Museum and Tweed Shire Council will share one photograph from the Ray Sharpe collection on Facebook every fortnight. Each image will come with a simple question: do you know who is pictured, where it was taken, or what was happening?

Your memories, however small, could be the missing piece. Every detail helps the Museum document and preserve Ray’s legacy for future generations.

The first image will be shared soon on Tweed Shire Council facebook.com/tweedshirecouncil/

Soft plastics are plastic items that can be scrunched into a ball.

Local volunteers helped new Tweed residents settle in, offering support, connection and a safe start in their new home.

Photographer Ray Sharpe.

Council meeting agenda – Thursday 19 March 2026

The Council meeting agenda for Thursday 19 March 2026 is available at tweed.nsw.gov.au/councillors-meetings . The meeting will be held at the Harvard Room, Tweed Heads Administration Building, Brett Street, Tweed Heads commencing at 11 am. Agenda

Reports for consideration

Confirmation of minutes

5.1 Confirmation of minutes of the Ordinary Council meeting held Thursday 12 February 2026

Reports from the Planning and Regulation

13.1 Community Markets Policy Review

13.2 Audit update - Extension of temporary licence over Council owned operational land at Parkes Drive, Tweed Heads West, located off Sussyer Avenue, Tweed Heads West (part Lot 1 DP1011625)

13.3 Development Application DA26/0072 for a five storey mixed use development with ground level retail and ground level residential units with residential units contained on levels 1-4 (inclusive; a total of 69 residential units, 2 of which will be affordable housing units, two basement levels of carparking with 184 carparking spaces and associated facilities (SSD-83069459) at Lot 2 DP 1310938 No. 4-8 Bells Boulevard, KingscliffSubmission to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure

13.4 Development Application DA25/0545 for removal of two (2) existing product storage tanks and installation of two (2) new tanks in association with existing brewery at Lot 207 DP 1122768 No. 35-37 Kite Crescent, South Murwillumbah

13.5 Tweed Development Control Plan

13.6 Proposed Planning Proposal for Dwelling Opportunities on Rural Land and Boundary Changes

Reports from the Director Sustainable Communities and Environment

14.1 Reducing Wildlife Road Fatalities

14.2 Hastings Point Headland Management Plan

14.3 Future Use of Former Temporary Housing Area - Tweed Holiday Parks Pottsville North

14.4 Adoption of Tweed Regional Gallery and Margaret Olley Art Centre Strategic Plan 2025 - 2028

14.5 TEN000066 SCRRC Surface Water Collection Pond Construction

14.6 Minutes of the Tweed Coast Koala Advisory Committee Meeting held Tuesday 18 November 2025

14.7 Compensatory Planting Policy

14.8 Rolling Sets Music Festival 2026 at Ebenezer ParkLot 448 DP 755740, Lot 653 DP 755740, Lot 702 DP 720453, Lot 7312 DP 1121225, Lot 7339 DP 1166191, Lot 7341 DP 1166191, Lot 7342 DP 1166191, Lot 7343 DP 1166191, Lot 7344 DP 1166191, Part Lot 7340 DP 116619 and Road 1350 Coral Street, Tweed Heads; Lot 704 DP 877249 Eden Street, Tweed Heads and Part Lot 703 DP 877250 No. 18 Coral Street, Tweed Heads

14.9 Minutes of the Aboriginal Advisory Committee Meeting held Tuesday 2 December 2025 Reports from the Director Engineering

15.1 Minutes of the Local Traffic Committee Meeting held Thursday 5 February 2026

15.2 Clarrie Hall Dam Raising Project Update

15.3 Local Traffic Forum

15.4 Update on cleanup of the landslip near Illawong Crescent, Terranora - March 2026

15.5 TEN000111 - Endless Summer Park and Hartigan Street SPS Upgrades

15.6 Request for Owners Consent, Caravan Park proposal (8 long term sites and 33 short term sites plus demolition and ancillary works) at Lot 250 DP 755701 No.1183 Cudgera Creek Road, Cudgera Creek

15.7 Dulguigan Road Traffic Survey Report - Fourth Quarter 2025

15.8 Variation Report for Contracts Finalised with Reportable Variations - 1 July 2025 to 31 December 2025

Reports from the Director Corporate Services

16.1 Community Engagement Participation Plan (on exhibition)

16.2 Draft Civil and Insurance Claim Management (excluding Workers Compensation) Policy

16.3 Public Forum Policy

16.4 Legal Services Register Report - 1 October 2025 to 31 December 2025

16.5 Councillor Expenses and Facilities Policy changes for adoption

16.6 Councillor Expenses 2025-2026

16.7 Short Term Rental Accommodation - Rating Implications

16.8 Monthly Investment Report for the period ending 31 January 2026

16.9 Monthly Investment Report for the period ending 28 February 2026

Notices of motion

19.1 Voice for Youth

19.2 Eradication of Camphor Laurels

19.3 Expulsion from Council Meetings

19.4 Regional and Rural Healthcare Recommendations

19.5 Support for Federal Government Import Restrictions for e-bikes

19.6 Report/Audit Request on TSC Future Economic Viability and Sustainability

19.7 Tweed Shire Council make a submission to the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion in Australia

Questions with notice

20.1 Kingscliff Skatepark

20.2 Dangerous Riding on Shared Paths

20.3 Dam Wall

Reports from the Director Planning and Regulation in Committee

26.1 Class 1 Appeal – Development Application DA25/0165 for a two (2) lot subdivision at Lot 13 DP 559888 No. 676 Terranora Road, Terranora

26.2 Compliance Strategy - Lot 13 DP755740 No. 1166 Terranora Road, North Tumbulgum

The agenda for these meetings, which may also include any late or supplementary reports, will be updated prior to the date of the meetings and are available on Council’s website. It should be noted that confidential items are considered in closed session, which excludes media and public. Also, the minutes of these meetings will be available as soon as practical following the meetings and are unconfirmed until they are formally adopted at the next Council meeting.

Please be aware that meetings are livestreamed, and video recordings will be available on Council’s website following the meeting. A person’s image and/ or voice may be broadcast. Attendance at the meeting is to be taken as consent by a person to their image and/or voice being webcast.

Development application determinations

Notification of development application determinations for the purposes of Section 4.59 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (as amended).

Proposed Naming of Road in Subdivision

In pursuance of section 162(1) of the Roads Act 1993 as amended, Council proposes to name the road dedicated in a plan of subdivision of Lot 50 in DP13109826, (S96/0049.13) in Tweed Heads West, Tweed Shire as: Pony Place

A period of 15 working days from the date of this notice is allowed for any person to lodge a written objection to the proposed naming. Any objections should state clearly the reasons for such objections. Objections should be addressed to the General Manager, Tweed Shire Council, PO Box 816, Murwillumbah, 2484 or tsc@tweed.nsw.gov.au

New horticulture food safety standards now in effect

Food Authority

New rules for NSW berry, leafy vegetable and melon growers.

New food safety requirements now apply for berry, leafy vegetable and melon primary production and processing businesses in NSW.

The requirements, introduced nationally, aim to strengthen food safety and traceability throughout the supply chain.

Is your business ready?

Scan the QR code or visit www.foodauthority.nsw.gov.au/horticulture to learn more.

Have

you

applied for a Resilient Measures grant?

Don’t miss out. New applications for the Resilient Homes Program close 31 March 2026. Homeowners have until 20 December 2026 to submit a building scope of works

If your home flooded in 2022, you may be eligible for a Resilient Measures grant of up to:

• $100,000 for house raising

• $50,000 for retrofit works

• $20,000 for planning and preparation costs. To find out more, chat to the Reconstruction Authority (RA) at the Chinderah Community Pop-up:

Date: 27 March 2026

Time: 10 am to 2 pm

Location: Turnock Park

For assistance, call 1800 844 085, email resilienthomesprogram@reconstruction.nsw.gov.au, or visit nsw.gov.au/resilienthomesprogram

Correction Proposed classification of land

Tweed Shire Council is in the process of acquiring proposed Lot 625 in DP1325250 in a proposed plan of Subdivision of Lot 441 in DP1320227 and Lot 750 DP1325252 in proposed subdivision of Lot 626 DP1325250 at Kings Forest Estate stages 6 and 7. Council proposes to resolve to classify the lots as Operational land in accordance with the provisions of section 31(2) of the Local Government Act 1993

Last week we published an incorrect map. To view the correct map and find out how to make a submission, please visit our public notice page - tweed.nsw.gov.au/proposedclassification-of-land-kings-forest-estate

Under the provisions of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009, submissions may be referred to third parties for consideration.

Current vacancies

Visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/job-vacancies to view current vacancies. Subscribe to receive Job Vacancy Alerts via email at tweed.nsw.gov.au/subscribe

Financial Advice

Planning

Superannua�on

02 5631 1733

2/15 Commercial Road MURWILLUMBAH NSW 2484

Kathryn Willowhite and Funding What Matters are Authorised Representatives of Synchron Advice Pty Ltd AFSL 243313 92693

Eat Well, Live Well: How Smart Nutrition Keeps Seniors Thriving

When families think about elderly care, the conversation often starts with visible needs like mobility aids, medication management and home modifications. These are all important steps for safety and quality of life. Yet, there is another key factor that can sometimes be overlooked: nutrition.

Memory and cognitive function are not just determined by genetics or luck. Eating nutritious meals and getting enough protein can play a role in supporting clear thinking and maintaining independence as we age. Every meal is an opportunity to influence wellbeing. When older adults eat balanced, nutritious meals, their bodies and minds are better supported for daily living. Nutrition is not just about general health, it’s about making daily life a little easier and more enjoyable. At 25, your body forgives nutritional mistakes. At 75, it keeps score. Ageing affects metabolism and nutrient absorption, so seniors often need fewer calories but more nutrient-dense foods. Diminished senses of taste and smell can also make food less appealing, right

when good nutrition matters most. Many older adults face challenges in getting enough of the right nutrients, which can impact overall health and quality of life.

Nutrition can influence how long someone is able to live independently. Eating well helps maintain muscle mass, which can help prevent falls. It supports energy and makes daily life more manageable. Poor nutrition, on the other hand, may increase frailty and fall risk. Every food choice becomes a choice about independence.

Gourmet Meals makes it easier to meet individual needs. Snap-frozen meals go straight to your freezer, giving you convenient access to dietitian-approved options whenever you need them. Each meal is balanced and cost-effective, with choices to suit a wide range of health requirements, from high protein and low fat to gluten free and vegetarian. Discover the full menu of nutritious meals at Gourmet Meals and see how simple it can be to get the nutrition you need, every day. For a copy of our menu contact us on 1300 112 112 or sales@gourmetmeals.com.au

Music and memory

By Rada Campbell

FOR LORRAINE VERRON, live music has always been part of life.

Long before she became a resident at Opal Greens aged care in Murwillumbah, Lorraine and her family ran a motel on the Gold Coast.

It was the 1980s, when the near by casino and Surfers Paradise clubs regularly hosted touring musicians and performers.

“We used to own the Broadbeach Motor Inn,” Lorraine told The Weekly.

“All the musicians that played over at the casino would stay with us.”

Those musicians were never far from their instruments.

“They’d play at the Patch and every where,” she said.

For Lorraine, it meant an open invi tation to the music scene.

“I used to go to all their performances for free.”

Decades later, that love of live music remains just as strong.

When Murwillum bah folk band Fiddle and Folk arrived at Opal Greens for a performance,

Lorraine took a front seat among the residents

It was her first time seeing the local group

The band’s lively mix of traditional folk tunes and familiar singalongs quickly drew smiles from residents across the room.

For Lorraine, the experience brought

“I love music,” she said. Asked what she enjoyed most about the performance, Lorraine

“Everything,” she said with a When band member Nick Kos jokingly asked if the musicians had paid her to say that Lorraine smiled even

“No, they haven’t paid me, “She said. “But I enjoyed every bit.”

Watching the band play, Lorraine said she could see the same enthusiasm she remembered from the musicians she met decades

“They really got into the music,” she said. “And that’s what makes

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Resident Lorraine Verron enjoyed her first performance by Murwillumbah folk band Fiddle and Folk

Groover Maree will be missed

By Jonathon Howard

AFTER NEARLY 15 years of helping local women stay active and connected, longtime community volunteer Maree Horwath has led her final class with the Pottsville Groovers before relocating to Queensland.

Ms Horwath, who founded and led the popular exercise group for older women in Pottsville, is moving to Hervey Bay to be closer to family.

Members of the group gathered at the Pottsville Sports Club last Friday, March 13, to farewell the much-loved organiser and thank her for years of dedication to the community.

The Pottsville Groovers program runs twice a week on Mondays and Wednesdays from 9am to 10.30am and offers light movement and exercise designed specifically for women over 60. Over the years, the classes have become about more than just exercise, providing an important

social outlet and support network for many local women.

Despite Ms Horwath’s departure, the group will continue operating, ensuring older women in the community can keep benefiting from the age-appropriate exercise routine she helped establish.

Participants say Ms Horwath’s enthusiasm, encouragement and commitment helped make the classes a “welcoming space for women of all abilities”.

As she prepares to leave the community she has supported for so long, Ms Horwath said she was proud the group would continue.

Anyone interested in joining the group is asked to contact organiser Erica before attending a session.

Erica can be reached on 0428 733 844 or via email: ericabeb17@yahoo.com to discuss the exercises involved and ensure the class is suitable.

Pottsville Groovers want to thank founder and volunteer Maree Horwath for all her hard work

Gentle.

Local. Dental Care in Murwillumbah

Fossils share connection

By Jonathon Howard

A REMARKABLE connection across time has emerged at Hastings Point this week, where two Tweed residents have found fossilised shark teeth at the same beach – separated by a decade.

Lara Jones recently made headlines after discovering a fossilised shark tooth believed to be millions of years old, sparking excitement among local fossil enthusiasts.

Shortly after the story was published, Jennifer Priest contacted The Weekly, revealing she had made a similar find at the very same spot back in 2016 (pictured).

“It was amazing to read The Weekly’s report from Lara,” Jennifer said.

“I felt the same experience as Lara, but in 2016, when walking along the beach at Hastings Point.

“I love visiting the Tweed Coast, I am drawn to the sea, and finding something as rare as this fossil, potentially from millions of years ago, only to hear of someone finding another one — the chances are incredible.”

Jennifer added with a touch of wonder: “It

would be nice to think that the teeth came from the same pre-historic shark.”

Lara shared images of her shark tooth in several online geology and fossil hobbyist groups, where members suggested it closely resembles a tooth from Cosmopolitodus hastalis, an extinct shark species believed to be an ancestor of the modern great white shark.

“From the information I have been able to find, teeth from this species can date anywhere from roughly one to 30 million years old, originating from the Late Oligocene through to the Early Pleistocene epochs,” Lara explained. The rare finds have sparked interest among local fossil enthusiasts and scientists alike, highlighting the Tweed Coast as a site of intriguing prehistoric discoveries.

“It’s incredible to think that we’re walking along the same shores as creatures that swam here millions of years ago,” Jennifer said. “Finding these fossils makes the past feel astonishingly close.”

YOUR THOUGHTS: Have you made any amazing fossil discoveries across the Tweed Shire? The Weekly would love to hear your story via email please: editor@theweekly.net.au

Main image was the fossil shark tooth found by Jennifer Priest. Inset is Lara Jones' find last week

TREES ON TWEED

TREE REMOVAL, PRUNING & SHAPING

Bluesfest refunds unlikely

By Jo Kennett

THE CANCELLATION of Bluesfest just three weeks before the much-loved event was to take place on the Easter long weekend, has sent shock waves through the community, with ticket holders being told they are unlikely to be refunded and many local businesses taking a big hit.

What began as a rumour turned into a big news story when festival organisers confirmed the cancellation last Friday, March 13.

“After 36 years as Australia’s most awarded festival, Bluesfest has made the difficult decision not to proceed with the 2026 event. We are proud of what we have achieved - the music, our artists, the busking competition, our staff, our community, and everyone who has been part of the Bluesfest journey,” event organisers posted online, thanking “loyal fans, artists, partners and the Byron Bay community for their support over the past 36 years.”

Organisers blamed rising production, logistics, insurance and touring costs for the late cancellation, which has caused chaos for artists, local accommodation providers, festival vendors, local businesses and ticket holders.

Liquidator Worrells has confirmed that ticket holders, including parking pass customers and campers, are unlikely to receive direct refunds.

Ticket holders are classified as unsecured creditors and advised to initiate chargebacks via their credit card provider or bank.

The owner of Gunter’s Flammkuchen says he was one of the main catering companies for the Green Room.

“The cancellation will affect my trade massively, as I have several food trucks in caravan parks in the area which usually benefit from the additional crowds over Easter,” Gunther said.

“So indirectly I’m looking at possibly $10,000 loss of revenue for that long weekend.”

A 2022 report highlighted that in addition to the $70.2 million injected into the Byron Shire

Murwillumbah Public School

PROMOTING EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION

specifically, the festival provided a massive flowon effect to surrounding areas including the Tweed, with the total Northern Rivers region benefiting by $143.9 million that year.

Banora Point resident Chris Ambroisine paid around $1,200 for tickets which she doesn’t think they will get back.

“I’m both disappointed and angry,” Chris said.

“We were so excited to see the likes of Split Enz, the Black Crows and so many other acts.

“To have it cancelled, most possibly without a refund, is a double kick in the guts.

“At least we’re local and didn’t have accommodation and travel booked as well.”

Sacha Maiji booked tickets with American Express and called them about it.

“I located the amount and date of purchase and explained to them the company was going into liquidation,” she said.

“They accepted this and advised the refund should appear on my next statement and they now have the debt with the company.

“That’s was that. Less than 5 minutes.

“I hope the stalls and other punters that paid different ways get reimbursed. Sad day for everyone really.”

The Tweed has been a popular place to stay for festival-goers since it relocated to Tyagarah in 2010, but now many local accommodation providers have seen bookings cancelled as well. The cancellation followed the end of Splendour in the Grass which had been held at Yelgun, near Wooyung, in 2024.

UNE Discovery Inspires Young Minds at MPS

Murwillumbah Public School (MPS) was lled with excitement as the annual UNE Discovery Tour returned, delivering a full day of hands-on, interactive learning for students from Kindergarten to Year 6.

The University of New England (UNE) Discovery program provides engaging, curriculum-aligned activities grounded in STEAM — Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics. Designed to enhance childhood development, the program recognises the importance of variety and meaningful exploration during the early years of schooling.

At MPS, we value opportunities that extend learning beyond the everyday classroom routine. The visiting facilitators — all quali ed scientists — encouraged curiosity, questioning and self-directed exploration throughout the day.

Students had the unique opportunity

to solve a crime by carefully examining evidence collected at the scene, putting their critical thinking and problem-solving skills to the test. They also practised their observational skills through detailed drawing of various species, enhancing their understanding of biology and art.

In a hands-on fossil excavation activity, children dug through sand to uncover hidden treasures from the past, learning about palaeontology and Earth’s history. Additionally, they challenged their engineering abilities by designing and building towers capable of supporting weights, exploring principles of physics and mathematics.

Experiences such as the UNE Discovery Tour re ect MPS’s ongoing commitment to providing dynamic educational opportunities that inspire curiosity and foster a lifelong love of learning.

The Bluesfest site at Tyagarah

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Custom Curtains and Blinds in Tweed Heads

Condong Public School open day

By Jonathon Howard

AFTER YEARS away from their Condong campus, following the devastating 2022 floods, students and staff at Condong Public School are finally back home and the community is being invited to celebrate this month.

The school, located beside the Tweed River, was severely impacted during Tweed’s worst flood, forcing students and staff to evacuate and relocate temporarily to the former Murwillumbah South Infants’ School, which had closed in 2016.

For the past three years, the NSW Department of Education has been working to rebuild the school on its original site at Condong high and dry for the future.

Condong Public principal Katherine Kolarik said returning to the rebuilt campus has been a milestone moment for the entire school community.

“We are happy to say that we are now back in our Condong community,” Ms Kolarik told The Weekly.

“At the end of 2025 we got a glimpse of our brand-new premises and were able to move all our school resources back into the classrooms, ready for a fresh start in 2026.”

On February 2 this year, students and teachers officially began the new school year in the purpose-built facilities.

“All students and staff began anew in our stateof-the-art school,” Ms Kolarik said.

“It has been a very exciting start to the year and the journey ahead.”

To mark the occasion, the school will host a Community Open Day on Friday, March 27, from 4pm to 7pm, inviting families, businesses

and community groups to celebrate the milestone together.

The event will feature music, raffles, competitions, food stalls, performances and other activities.

“This will be a vibrant and dynamic official ‘welcome home’ to our school,” Ms Kolarik said.

Organisers are also encouraging local groups and businesses to get involved in the celebration.

“Our goal is to bring the community together in a joyful and inclusive way as we mark this important milestone,” Ms Kolarik said.

“Your involvement would mean so much to us and help make the day even more memorable for our students and community members.”

Community members interested in participating in the event or supporting the celebration through donations or sponsorships are encouraged to contact the school.

Students and staff at Condong Public School are celebrating a long-awaited return to their rebuilt campus beside the Tweed River after being displaced by the devastating floods.

Fuel shock could lead to major changes

By Jo Kennett

GET YOUR bicycles out folks, it looks like we could be going back to those peaceful pandemic times when everyone stayed home, and they saw the sky for the first time in the middle of Beijing as traffic ground to a halt.

You may also remember images of the smog that permanently hungover cities like Beijing. Well now, thanks to the electric car revolution in China, much of that is gone.

The whole thing has made the Chinese look very prescient in moving to renewables. Did they see the writing on the wall? We all should have really.

The great fear as far as fuel security goes has always been that something would happen to shut down oil supplies from the Middle East, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz.

Throughout their involvement in the region, US leaders and diplomats have been well aware of the danger of making any moves that might lead to that happening. Like attacking Iran, not once, but twice.

This really was so foreseeable, es -

pecially after the attacks last year by Israel and the US on Iran, in pretty similar circumstances, when Iran was at the negotiation table on its nuclear program, just as it was this time.

Iran is renowned for its world leading medical research and has, over decades, built its own nuclear medicine industry with over 200 centres that produce around 70 radioactive drugs to find and treat cancer. International sanctions have made it harder to get equipment and materials for that.

This is the nuclear program Israel, and the US have been using as an excuse to attack the country. Yes, the regime is authoritarian, and women are treated like crap, but that’s not what this war is about.

Also held up at Hormuz are shipments of gas, urea - chemical fertilisers - and plastics, a product created from the oil and gas industries to monetise byproducts from refining.

Right now, in the Tweed (and around the country) trials are being done to reduce the need for chemical fertilisers and much progress has already been made. And farmers hate having to fork out a fortune to companies like Monsanto to pay for chemicals to grow and harvest crops.

Still our farmers will take major hits in yields if they can’t access urea for winter crops, such as wheat, which is planted going into winter. The soybean harvest is kicking off right now in the shire, and the price of diesel and supply problems will make that

a costly and stressful exercise.

Iran says it won’t let enemy (including US allies like Australia) ships –through Hormuz, but it has let oil shipments including a handful bound for Pakistan and India pass through the straits recently.

South Korea has just done a deal with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to import more than six million barrels of crude oil, which is good news for Australia, as we import almost one third of our refined fuel from South Korean refineries.

The UAE has an oil pipeline that runs straight into the Gulf of Oman on the south side of the Strait of Hormuz, bypassing that chokepoint, much like the Saudi’s pipeline which runs across to the Red Sea, to the west of the Persian Gulf.

The main strait connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean is the Bab el-Mandeb.

Like Hormuz, it’s a narrow, strategic waterway and lies between Yemen on the Arabian Peninsula and Djibouti/ Eritrea in the Horn of Africa.

Houthi rebels in Yemen targeted ships in the strait in 2023 in response to the Israeli attacks on Palestine, and now they are threatening to shut it down in opposition to the attacks on Iran.

One-quarter of global shipping, including around four to six million barrels of oil daily, passes through this strait, linking Asia, Europe, and Africa via the Suez Canal, so that

would make the current situation much, much worse.

Trump is, of course, deeply concerned about all this. “When oil prices go up, we make a lot of money,” he said last week.

That’s because the USA is currently the world’s largest oil producer, and who doesn’t love a bit of spare cashola. Not sure if the punters would be loving it.

Good news? Middle Eastern nations, including Iran, need to keep their wells pump, as much as refiners need to keep their refineries running. If they have to shut them down it causes major problems that could

take months, or years, to fix. Iran is trying to outlast Israel and the US, and the war probably won’t stop until Netanyahu is pressured by his own people, now under retaliatory attacks from Iran, into stopping it. Let’s hope that happens soon. Troubles locally with fuel supplies and pricing will have many people looking at hybrid and electric vehicles, which may be the start of a much broader move out of oil-reliant transport. Fortunately, you can pick one up at your local dealer right now.

Bab el-Mandeb bottom centre with the Strait of Hormuz between the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman

PACIFIC BITUMEN

Bowser horror story

AVERAGE REGULAR unleaded prices have apparently only risen 12.4 cents per litre this past week, and prices, as we went to print, were supposed to have flattened out - although anyone filling up this week, especially on diesel, isn’t feeling that lucky.

According to the NRMA Weekly Fuel Report, how fast prices continue to rise will be dependent on future wholesale price increases.

Average regular unleaded prices – 229.6 cents per litre - have risen 70.1 cents per litre from the previous low point of the Sydney cycle on February 15. That’s a lot.

Over the previous week Tapis crude rose $US 15.8 per barrel to $US 101.8 per barrel. That’s the light, clean good stuff with low sulphur content that refiners like and that we use in Australia for petrol, diesel, and jet fuel. Tapis acts as “a key marker for trading crude oil in Southeast Asia, influencing the price of many Australian and Asian light sweet crudes” (gosh, sounds like wine right, only a little more difficult to digest)

Fuel in the Tweed Shire jumped from the $1.60s for unleaded 91 at the start of March (the attack on Iran began at the end of February) at the cheapest service stations and was

over $2.10 in some outlets by Monday, March 9, and more expensive on the Gold Coast.

By Tuesday, February 17, according to Petrol Spy, it had soared to highs in the $2.50s for unleaded petrol, scary for those of us who were running on empty.

It’s even worse for people with diesel vehicles, who are nearly $3 to fill up at some service stations. That’s a lot if you’re pumping 1,000 litres of diesel into your John Deere.

Fortunately, there were plenty of options for Unleaded 91 in the shire in the $2.20 range, which seems ridiculous when you could get it in the $1.60s before this whole debacle started.

Willserve Murwillumbah, an old fave on Tweed Valley Way that has always been up with Taylor’s Corner for the best fuel prices, had Unleaded 91 for $225.9 and diesel for $265.9 on Tuesday, which suddenly seems like a bargain.

SUBI CARE MECHANICAL

Specialising in repairing & servicing Subarus

- DAVID HAMILTON

BUSINESS BEAT

Meet Subi Care owner Dave Hamilton

With Madeleine Murray

What does Subi Care do?

Here at Subi Care, we specialise in looking after, servicing and repairing Subaru vehicles. We do not touch European. We do not touch American.

How long have you been doing it?

I opened Subi Care up in April 2008 and we’ve been operating ever since. We’ve lived through two floods, both hugely traumatic and devastating to the business.

How did you first get into it?

I previously worked for the local Subaru dealer. Later on, I started up my own workshop, but specialised in Subaru. I like Subaru.

There is a lot of responsibility in your job. How do you cope with that?

By having very good staff.

You have 83/85 positive reviews on google. What makes you good at your job?

The main reason, I believe, is I actually like my job. And enjoy doing what I do. If people think I’m good at it, that’s probably why.

What’s the best part about your job?

Basically interacting with customers, and their vehicles – accomplishing outcomes, achieving what we set out to do. Helping people, basically.

What’s your favourite hobby?

I like working with cars and I do that in my spare time. I have a heap of projects, which I will never see the end of.

But my other favourite hobby would be go-karting. The problem is that there are no facilities nearby. It’s a great family, bonding sport and our lovely council should think about having something local. All the tracks are closing, and

they wonder why people do burnouts on the roads. Because there’s nothing for them to do. A lot of people like me love motorsport. I’m not physically inclined to get out on a pushbike. I’m lazy. I love a motor.

If you could have done something else, what would that be?

When I was at high school, I thought about becoming a school teacher. I was very interested in joining the police force. Then I wanted to become a builder like my brother. But I got offered a job as an apprentice mechanic, which I wasn’t aiming for, but I was very happy. Subi Care Mechanical is at 8/11 Buchanan St, South Murwillumbah. Call 02 6672 4005, 0418 497 867

MURWILLUMBAH TYRE SERVICE

ALEX JOHNSTON take a bow. What a great spectacle that was on Friday night with AJ becoming the greatest try scorer in NRL history.

The crowd really got into it and that was probably always going to happen.

Wayne put a bit of a dampener on things and I reckon his press conference might have been different if they held on to win the game which was a shame as it was a great celebration for one of the good guys of Rugby League - I reckon he’s got a few more in him as well and a couple of seasons at the PNG Chiefs could see the record extend.

I also did feel for the one poor bloke security got and were going to fine $5,000!

The Broncos Eels game was one of the strangest games of footy I have ever seen. To have two sides be so good and so bad so many times in 80 mins was amazing.

No team wants to start the season 0 from 2 but the reigning premiers need to get going and it gets no easier this week against the formidable Storm.

The Warriors have been su-

AT THE FOOTY with Quinny

per impressive also to kick off 2026 and will travel to Newcastle this week pretty confident considering the blow for the Knights having Ponga and Brown out for extended periods.

Players getting injured is part of the game and no one wants to see players on the sidelines but when they are genuine stars and take up a fair chunk of your salary cap it’s even harder.

The Titans had two points in the bag on Sunday night but let it slip with 15 minutes to go.

Coach Hannay would have been particularly disappointed with the finish as they were great across the board in the first 60.

The Tigers ran riot against a struggling Cowboys and the drums are already starting to beat for coach Payten and it’s only round 2.

I’d also think Manly would want to find some form and quickly to keep the naysayers at bay.

Country Championships semi finals this week at Lismore with the Northern Rivers Titans Men, Women and Laurie Daley u18’s all vying for a spot in the finals next week at Port Macquarie.

This should be a cracking day of footy at Crozier on Saturday and we wish all our local teams the very best of luck. See you at the footy. Quinny

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Murwillumbah democracy

By Rada Campbell

INDIGENOUS RIGHTS advocate and author

Thomas Mayo will bring a powerful conversation about Australia’s future to Murwillumbah when he speaks at the Regent Cinema on March 26.

Mayo, a key architect of the Uluru Statement from the Heart, will headline the second event in the Democracy Matters! talk series.

The national speaker and union official has spent years travelling across the country advocating for constitutional recognition and better outcomes for First Nations communities.

He said his involvement in the Uluru Statement was driven by a simple goal: finding a better way forward after decades of stop-start policy approaches.

“It was just about trying to see better outcomes for Indigenous people,” Mayo told The Weekly.

“Sometimes Australians don’t realise the people working hardest to close the gap are Indigenous people themselves. We’re talking about our own families and our own children.”

Mayo said many communities had seen promising programs undone by changing governments or ministers.

“It’s been this stop-start, one step forward, two steps back situation,” he said.

“I was looking for how we could do things differently and the Uluru Statement from the Heart offered that opportunity.”

The 2023 referendum on a Voice to Parliament was a devastating moment for many supporters, he said.

“It was a really sad time,” he said.

“It wasn’t just Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who were devastated. It was

a lot of Australians who hoped for better for their country and our relationship with the First Peoples.”

Despite the result, Mayo said the work for justice and recognition had never stopped.

“No one works harder to improve the lives of Indigenous people than we do ourselves,” he said.

During his Murwillumbah talk, Mayo will reflect on the state of Australian democracy and the importance of transparency, accountability and public participation.

He said a healthy democracy depended on trust in institutions and the ability for citizens to hold leaders accountable.

“The right to protest is important,” he said.

“When people aren’t heard, they need to be able to get out on the street and be part of the accountability for elected members.”

He also warned that misinformation and algorithm-driven social media were increasingly shaping public debate.

“It’s influencing our democracy in a way that undermines it,” he said.

Mayo said he looked forward to hearing the questions from regional audiences when he visits communities like Murwillumbah.

“I hope people ask about the state of our democracy and how we protect it,” he said.

“I’m hoping to enlighten.”

The evening will also feature live music from Zemzemeh, a duo blending traditional Iranian music with contemporary influences.

Thomas Mayo will speak at the Regent Cinema, 5 Brisbane St, Murwillumbah, 6:30pm on March 26 as part of the Democracy Matters! series.

Tickets: theregentcinema.com.au

Audi�onees will be required to sing a verse and chorus of their favourite song.

Please bring a USB backing track of the song.

Thomas Mayo speaks at Regent Murwillumbah March 26

Chillingham Voices honours founder

By Madeleine Murray

CHILLINGHAM VOICES CHOIR will present a special tribute concert at All Saints Anglican Church in Murwillumbah on Sunday, March 29, celebrating the life and legacy of founder Harlie Axford.

Titled Past, Present and Future: A Tribute to Harlie Axford, the afternoon performance will honour the charismatic choirmaster who established the community choir in 2008 and led it until his death in 2024.

Axford’s partner, Sue Axford, said the tribute meant a great deal to the family and choir members alike.

“It is such an honour to have this tribute paid to Harlie, who was the much-loved founder of the choir,” she said. “Thankfully a number of conductors, including our son Ben, have stepped up to keep the tradition of this community choir alive.”

Before moving to the Tweed in the late 1990s, Harlie was a music lecturer at Queensland University of Technology. He and Sue later built a distinctive Swiss-style wooden house in Chillingham.

A passionate musician, Harlie played trombone with bands at the Brisbane Jazz Club, was active in theatre with the Mt Cotton drama group, and led the SCAT vocal group both in Brisbane and overseas. In recent years he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for services to music education.

Under his direction, Chillingham Voices performed widely across the Tweed Valley and further afield, including Stradbroke Island, Tasmania, South Australia and New Zealand. Sunday’s program will feature an eclectic mix of music including Air from Water Music by Handel, Make your Garden Grow by Leonard

Bernstein, Let it Be by Paul McCartney, and Mood Indigo by Duke Ellington. Gibbons, Schönberg, The Beach Boys and David Bowie will also feature.

In addition to the full choir renditions there will be performances by the Hot Chilli Chicks and Cool Chilli Dudes. Audience members will recognise songs from musicals such as Les Miserables and Candide, and those who know the works of Eric Whitaker and Rudyard Kipling will enjoy a rendition of The Seal Lullaby. Conductors Barbara Crellin, Mary Wiseman, Lynne Turpie, Ben Axford and Barry Firth will lead the choir. Ed Dryhurst and Ben Axford will provide some backing on guitar and bass, along with the two regular accompanists (Mary and Lynne) on piano.

Past, Present and Future is at 2:30pm on Sunday, March 29 at All Saints Anglican Church, 26-30 Byangum Rd, Murwillumbah. Tickets will be available at the door from 1:30pm or online via TryBooking: events/landing/1547948. Adults $12, concessions $10, with children under 12 admitted free.

Choir members will take turns conducting.

BEHIND: Harlie Axford founded the Chillingham Voices

(8)

74 One of three germ layers (8)

75 Moves in an ungainly way (7)

1 Disorderly (7)

2 Transposition of letters to form a new word (7)

3 Long-eared dog breed (7)

4 Fruit of a tropical palm (7)

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12 Produce milk (7)

14 Diameter of a bullet (7)

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Strut (6)

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31 Day’s end (6)

32 Connive (6) 34 Adjust (5)

Issue (7) 36 Test (5) 38 Dodged (6)

39 Continue (6)

40 Degradation (14)

45 From a landlocked South Asian country (6)

46 South American lizard (6)

48 Cicatrice (4)

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51

3. The word veterinary derives from the latin “veterinarius” meaning what kind of animal?

4. What does the Japanese word “sushi” literally mean? 5. Where do Frangipani trees originate from?

JUNIO

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“We moved away for work when we were young and ended up in Darwin.

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Luke has been working in construction across excavation and drainage works for the past 20 years with one of Australia’s largest civil contractors.

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For

Proposed termination of strata scheme number 17072 being property situated at 6 Greville Street, South Murwillumbah NSW 2484 Notice is given of an intention to apply to the Registrar-General for an order terminating the above strata scheme and the consequent dissolution of the owners corporation pursuant to section 142 of the Strata Schemes Development Act 2015. Any person having any claim against the owners corporation of the above strata scheme or any estate or interest in or claim against any of the lots comprised in the strata scheme is required, on or before 3 April 2026, to send particulars of the estate, interest or claim to:

NSW Reconstruction Authority Attention: Kristie Clarke Level 4, 218 Molesworth St Lismore NSW 2480

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Exciting Job Opportunity

Tweed Valley Weekly is seeking a motivated part-time Salesperson to grow our Trades and Professional Services section and manage notices. The role is ideal for someone who enjoys building relationships with local businesses and community members. The position is three-days per week with an attractive hourly rate and comfortable working environment. Strong communication skills and a friendly, professional manner are essential.

Please apply via email: eryn@ theweekly.net.au or visit the office and introduce yourself at Shop 7, 41-45 Murwillumbah Street (Palm Court). (02) 6672 4443

LEGAL SECRETARY POSITION VACANT

Legal Secretary (Murwillumbah) required 3 days per week (casual) with the potential to become permanent for the right applicant.

The successful applicant must have office experience (not necessarily legal), be competent with general office skills including but not limited to: Microsoft Word, emails and internet and have good people and telephone skills. On the job training will be provided to enhance your skills to what we require. Applications may be forwarded to office@hynesandmccormack.com.au.

Weekly In Memoriam

In Loving Memory of

Krystal

Rosabell Krasna

8 June 1982 ~ 21 March 2022

Those we love don't go away, they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed, and forever dear.

In loving memory of RONALD

(RON) FINCH

26/06/1953 - 12/03/2026

Passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on the 12th March 2026, aged 72.

Dearly loved husband of Annette for 53 years, Loving father of Matthew and Shannon, and father in law to Cathy and Kylie, An adored grandfather and beloved great grandfather. A loved brother and a beloved friend to all.

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend Ron’s funeral service on 24th March at 11:30am (NSW time) Tweed Heads Memorial Gardens 176 Kirkwood Road, Tweed Heads South. Go Parra

| Tweed Heads (07) 5599 1800

Alfred Ernest Bartlett

In loving memory of Alf Late of Condong Passed away peacefully on Saturday 7th March 2026 Aged 91 Years

Dearly loved husband of Dorothy(dec’d) Cherished father, grandfather and friend

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend Alf’s Funeral Service at Tweed Valley Lawn Chapel, Eviron Road, Eviron Saturday 21st March 2026 at 10:00am (NSW time).

Our women Funeral Specialists are here to share their strength, and support you and your family.

Our women Funeral Specialists are here to share their strength, and support you and your family.

Dedicated support for your family, before and after the funeral

Dedicated support for your family, before and after the funeral

Since 1987, we’ve helped Australian families find the strength to say farewell to their loved one. Your caring Funeral Specialists will be here for you every step of the way.

Bespoke funeral services

Your loved one’s farewell should be as unique as them. We’ll create a truly personalised service that reflects their spirit.

Since 1987, we’ve helped Australian families find the strength to say farewell to their loved one. Your caring Funeral Specialists will be here for you every step of the way.

Say farewell from anywhere

Bespoke funeral services

We serve communities right across Australia. For those who can’t attend in person, we provide live-streaming services so everyone has a chance to say goodbye.

Your loved one’s farewell should be as unique as them. We’ll create a truly personalised service that reflects their spirit.

Speak with our caring Funeral Specialists 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Say farewell from anywhere

We serve communities right across Australia. For those who can’t attend in person,

Tweed Valley Rollers

By Madeleine Murray

NORTHERN RIVERS Revolt Roller Derby

Tournament will kick off on Saturday, March 21, and Sunday, March 22, at the Cavanagh Centre, Byron Bay.

Six teams will compete from around Australia, including our very own Tweed Valley Rollers (TVR) who will join forces with the Northern Rivers Roller Derby to compete as the River Valley Rollers.

“The Northern Rivers Revolt has become a staple of the Australian Roller Derby calendar,” event organiser Mojo told The Weekly.

“Reaching our sixth year is a testament to the strength of our local derby community. This year, the competition is tougher than ever, and we’re excited to showcase both our six-team tournament and a high-energy open-gender game.”

Part sport, part spectacle, the Northern Rivers Revolt showcases the fast-paced, hard-hitting excitement of roller derby while highlighting the strong community spirit that underpins the game. Teams compete in a series of high-energy bouts that demand speed, strategy and teamwork, as skaters battle for position on the track.

But the event is about more than competition.

Organisers say the tournament reflects the inclusive and supportive culture that has helped roller derby flourish in the Northern Rivers. Skaters, volunteers and supporters come together not only to celebrate the sport, but also to strengthen connections in the community.

Tweed Valley Rollers have been training at the Epic Skate rink since 2009. They have skaters from 18 to 58 years old, and accept skaters from age 16. Lisa O’Leary, age 52, is the longest standing member, she has been at the club for 16 years.

Over the years the Revolt has grown into one

of the region’s signature derby gatherings, attracting competitors and fans. With its mix of athleticism, camaraderie and grassroots spirit, the tournament embodies what roller derby in the Northern Rivers is all about: fierce competition on the track and a welcoming community off it.

Two teams (usually five skaters on the track from each team at a time) compete in short rounds called jams, which last up to two minutes. Each team has a jammer or scorer, and four blockers who both defend their own jammer and try to stop the opposing jammer. Blockers use legal body contact – hips, shoulders and positioning – to slow, contain or knock the jammer off balance.

It’s rough but highly regulated. There are strict rules about what contact is allowed (no tripping, no elbowing, no head contact).

Roller derby began in the United States in the 1930s as an endurance skating race and evolved into the modern contact sport.

Northern Rivers Revolt is on from 9am to 5pm on Saturday, March 21 and Sunday, March 22 at the Cavanbah Sports Centre, Byron Bay. All proceeds to community support hub, Fletcher Street Cottage.

Cudgen into finals

By Jo Kennet

THE CUDGEN Hornets are into the final of the LJ Hooker League, after defeating the Tweed Banora Colts in the semifinal on Saturday, March 14, with Caleb Ziebell and Zeke Mostert starring.

The Colts won the toss and elected to bowl and Cudgen came out swinging.

Callum Gall scored 37, Alec Williams 30 and then Caleb Ziebell came out and smashed six sixes and five fours, for a total of 98 before he was bowled by Jock Vivers and caught by Tommy Byrnes.

Pat Rosser (29), Hayden Wilson (35) and Riley Weir on 34 (not out) backed up to pretty well seal the deal, with the Hornets 7/278 at the end of 40 overs.

In reply Captain Andrew Ridgewell top scored for the Colts on 41 and it was Zeke Mostert who took 5 wickets for 34 runs, and held the opposition at bay.

The Colts were all out for 139 at the end of 31 overs, with their finals’ run over.

They had an amazing season and were in the top two for much of the competition, so it was the end of a great campaign.

“While the results weren’t what we hoped for, we couldn’t be prouder of the effort, commitment and heart shown by both teams throughout the season,” the club posted on its social media page.

“To finish the year with two teams playing finals cricket is a fantastic achievement and a reflection of the hard work from our players, coaches, volunteers and families at the Tweed Banora Colts Cricket Club.

“Well done to all our players across each team for representing the club with pride all season. We’re incredibly proud of what you’ve achieved and can’t wait to see what next season brings.

“A huge thank you to our supporters who came down across the weekend to cheer the teams on, your support means everything.”

Cudgen will take on Goonellabah in the finals at Reg Dalton Field, Kingscliff, on Saturday, March 21, kicking off at 1pm.

Local mountain bike star rising through the ranks

By Jo Kennet

RISING LOCAL slopestyle mountain bike star Dane Folpp hit the international stage against the best riders in the world in New Zealand last weekend and shot straight to seventh on the world rankings.

“It has been an incredible couple of days,” Dane’s mum Tanya said.

“Dane received sixth place at his first ever ‘Diamond’ FMBA (Freestyle Mountain Biking Association) event held by Crankworx in Rotorua NZ.

“This has placed him 7th overall in the World Slopestyle Super League rankings.

“This is an incredible result considering it was his first Diamond competition, competing against the best riders in the world.

“Dane will now set his sights on two European

competitions being a Gold event in Slovakia and another Diamond event in the Netherlands.

“He is well on his way to achieving his ultimate goal on one day becoming world champion. “

Dane’s support crew were thrilled when he gained recognition on an international level after being awarded Red Bull Rookie of the Year for 2025 last year.

“This is a prestigious award that no other Australian has ever won and is a huge achievement,” Tanya said.

“Slopestyle’ mountain bike riding is an extreme sport where athletes showcase aerial tricks with their bikes over multiple course features.”

Tanya said her 18-year-old son is a passionate freestyle/mountain bike rider.

“Dane started competing at the age of 14 where he quickly rose through the competition

ranks and became the open men’s Australian champion at just 16 years of age,” she said.

“After achieving this, Dane set his sights on advancing into the world tour rankings.

“He has competed across the globe in international competitions against riders from all over the world.

“We are so excited for our son and couldn’t be prouder of his achievements.”

fifth place at Silverstar, Canada (FMBA Gold).

Dane trains with local legend Jared de Thierry, coach of surf stars like Jack Robinson and Dane Henry, at his Chinderah gym.

Tanya said that since Dane started competing, his goal has always been to one day represent Australia and be on the Diamond FMB (Freestyle Mountain Bike) World Tour.

“Winning Red-bull Rookie of the Year means he is truly on his path to achieving this goal,” she said earlier this year.

“It really is a dream come true and we are still pinching ourselves that it is about to happen.”

“He is the first male Australian to ever achieve this milestone of competing in a Diamond League Slopestyle competition,” Tanya said.

If you haven’t already checked it out, go to Dane’s Instagram page @dane_mtb to be to see some clips of Dane in action.

and

The Dungay teenager who works at Northern Rivers Cycle and Bike Hire at Mooball - you can check out his progress on their social mediawhen he isn’t training or competing, won the 2025 Red Bull Rookie of the Year last October after podium finishes and top ten results across Gold and Silver events around the world: He took first place at Horseshoe, Canada, (FMBA Silver level), second place at Vittoria, Italy (FMBA Silver), fourth place at Birell Bike Fest, Slovakia —

Tweed Valley Rollers in red. Photo Richard Tompsett

4th place (FMBA Silver)

Dane ripping up the massive tabletop at the Kiwi event recently

Caleb Ziebell, in action with the Blues here, top scored on the weekend

Real Estate Estate

FROM COAST TO COUNTRY

Will rate rise dampen growth locally?

By Jo Kennett

THE RESERVE Bank of Australia lifted rates on Tuesday by 25 basis points, to 4.1 per cent to combat inflation which is set to soar because of the war, following a similar rise in February which did little to slow demand in the Tweed Shire.

That’s expected to increase the average owner-occupier’s monthly mortgage repayments by approximately $91, based on a $600,000 loan.

The market locally has proved resilient due to high demand and limited supply, with some forecasts predicting more, but slower growth in 2026.

Before Operation Epic Failure kicked off, property prices in parts of the shire seem to have plateaued, but hadn’t really dropped, whereas in some cities they had.

There was a pretty steep price increase last year for

Tweed Heads properties, up from around $1.3 million median to $1.66 million by last September.

That’s now settled to around $1.64 million at the end of February.

Murwillumbah saw a less steep rise in prices over the past year, but it still went up, and since December has settled at around $943,500.

Pottsville property peaked in 2022 at around $1.48 million then dropped to around $1.22 later that year and gradually rose to $1,477,500 in February.

Cotality’s Asia Pacific Head of Research, Tim Lawless said this week that the Australian housing market is beginning to show early signs of cooling.

“Clearly the market’s starting to slow down a little bit, a few cracks emerging on the back of affordability and serviceability challenges,” he said, adding that the February rate rise had played a key role. You would expect the latest rise

Open Homes

All times are DST unless specified. Saturday, March 21

DJ Stringer

• 169 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah 9–9:30am

• 4/241 Golden Four Dr, Bilinga 9–9:30am QLD Time

• 6/311 Golden Four Dr, Bilinga 9–9:30am QLD Time

• 1/42-44 Thomson St, Tweed Heads 10–10:30am

• 2046/20 Stuart St, Tweed Heads 10:45–11:15am

• 14 Tyrone Terrace, Banora Point 11–11:30am

• 2104/20 Stuart St, Tweed Heads 11:15–11:45am

to have a similar effect.

Markets are factoring in another rise in May, which will mean three rises this year. Will it force some investors out of the market? Only time will tell but that is quite likely as well.

There was quite a bit of movement with the Albanese government bringing forward its First Home Buyers 5 per cent deposit scheme to October and launching the Help to Buy shared equity (2 per cent deposit) scheme in December, which saw a rush of investors trying to get in before all the first home buyers.

The war in the Middle East will see a big rise in inflation, which may drag on, because one of the biggest causes of inflation is rising fuel prices which have skyrocketed as oil supply from the region slows. That leads to higher consumer prices for goods and services.

Pushing up rates to combat

• 2/38 Garrick St, Coolangatta 11:15–11:45am QLD Time

• 16/19 Ivory Cres, Tweed Heads 12–12:30pm

• 33 Inlet Dr, Tweed Heads West 12–12:30pm

• 7/20 Dutton St, Coolangatta 12:15–12:45pm QLD Time

Tate Brownlee Real Estate

• 8 Glenys Street, Tweed Heads South, 9–9:30am

• 56 Terranora Road, Banora Point, 9–9:30am

• 20/14 Lorikeet Dr, Tweed Heads South, 10–10:30am

• 5 Admiralty Pl, Banora Point, 10–10:30am 14 Laura St, Banora Point, 10–10:30am

• 59 Banora Boulevard, Banora Point, 11–11:30am

• 17 Ossa Boulevard, Terranora, 12–12:30pm

• 22/61 Marana St, Bilambil Heights, 12–12:30pm

• 13 Cobaki Rd, Tweed Heads West, 1–1:30pm

rising inflation comes with its own dangers, as Michelle Bullock and her team know.

One landlord who owns 25 properties said, just before the RBA met, that a rate rise would see rents increase and they wouldn’t go down, unlike mortgages. Rising rates pushes up rental and construction costs, which pushes up inflation which pushes up interest rates. As far as blunt instruments go it’s like hitting a nail with a sledgehammer and smashing your fingers in the process.

Time will tell how international events play out locally but, sadly, the impact looks likely to be ongoing.

Raine and Horne Jet

Hot property

OUR HOT Property this week is truly one of a kind: one property, four gorgeous dwellings and impressive income potential, all just a short stroll from the beach at Kingscliff.

At the heart of “Sunset” at 7 Surf Street — an address to envy — is a sparkling magnesium pool surrounded by multiple living spaces, with potential income of $2,650 per week.

The main residence features three spacious bedrooms with built-in robes and a light-filled openplan living and dining area.

The stylish kitchen with stone benchtops includes a servery window opening to a large timber deck, perfect for barbecues and alfresco dining.

A beautifully furnished granny flat offers high ceilings, open-plan living, full kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, laundry and a sunny north-facing deck.

A self-contained studio includes a kitchenette, bathroom, laundry and courtyard, while a converted three-car garage provides a single garage plus a large multi-purpose room.

“Sunset” is for sale with Adrianna Jenkins at Northern River Property Group, with a price guide of $2.2 to $2.35 million.

• 7 Peter Street, Murwillumbah 9:30–10:00am

• Panorama Estate: 2891 Kyogle Rd, Kunghur 10–2:00pm

• 629 Tumbulgum Road, Tygalgah 10:30–11:00am

• 18 Flinders Way, Ocean Shores 12–1:00pm First National Murwillumbah

• 145 Smiths Creek Road, Uki 10:30am–11:00am

• 129 Minnows Road, Fernvale 11:30am–12:00pm Schmith Estate Agents

• 177 Kennedy Drive Tweed Heads West 10:00–10:30am

• 501/215 Boundary Street Coolangatta 11–11:30am QLD time

• 11/28 Coolangatta Road Coolangatta 12:30–1pm QLD time

• 63 Piggabeen Road Tweed Heads West 2:30–3pm The Agency

• Unit 3/ 22 Garrick Street, Coolangatta, 10.30–11am Qld time

• 6 Ivory Crescent, Tweed Heads, 10.30–11am LS Properties

• 5 Waugh Street, Chinderah, Auction, 9am9:30am

• 57 Cabarita Road, Bogangar, Auction, 11am11:30am

• 5 Brady Place, North Tumbulgum, Auction, 9:30am-10am

• 8 Brushbox Court, Bogangar, 10am-10:30am

• 102 Farrants Road, Farrants Hill, 10:30am-11am

• 8 Candlenut Street, Casuarina, 11am-11:30am

• Emerald Mountain View, Tanglewood, Auction, 1pm-1.30pm

4 Bed | 3 Bath | 2 Car

Commanding a private position with a peaceful outlook across the greenspace of Casuarina Beach, this stunning residence is an oasis of unparalleled quality and relaxed comfort for families and their guests.

Proudly positioned in the esteemed enclave of She-Oak Lane in northern Casuarina, with direct beach access, 35 She-Oak Lane emerges from its private paradise as the ultimate lifestyle property. Exemplary in every aspect, this fusion of coastal elegance and timeless architecture will stand the test of time.

Drawing inspiration from the coastal landscape to bring the natural beauty of the surroundings inside, this property emphasises the use of natural materials, light timbers, stone, and soft furnishings, to create a sense of organic texture and a connection to the Casuarina coastal environment.

Soaring ceilings, including a 6-metre void above the dining room, add space, light, and romance. Flawless tiling and lavish stone features layer this floor plan with a luxurious ambiance. Showcasing multiple living zones, a designer kitchen, and resort-style amenities, including a home cinema, 12-metre lap pool, feature limestone fireplace, and outdoor alfresco entertaining zone, this residence is the key to your new Casuarina lifestyle.

We are proud to represent 3 She-Oak Lanek, Casuarina. An architectural masterpiece of space, light & flexibility.

Please contact Nick Witheriff on 0405 618 477 or Carol Witheriff on 0413 056 405 to arrange your exclusive viewing.

Contact Witheriff Group for a FULL information memorandum.

Nick Witheriff: 0405 618 477

Carol Witheriff: 0413 056 405 www.witheriffgroup.com.au

35 She-Oak Lane, Casuarina

Same people, new brand.

Over the past six months, we have been working closely with a well-known and highly respected national real estate brand. Following careful consideration, we are proud to announce that Jason and Elizabeth will be joining Raine & Horne as franchise owners, trading as Raine & Horne Jet

From 15 January 2026, we will no longer trade under JET Real Estate. Our company name remains Jet Property Consultants Pty Ltd, now trading as Raine & Horne Jet. This move allows us to continue offering the same trusted local service, supported by the strength, reach, and over 140 years of real estate expertise that Raine & Horne provides.

Our passion is finding your best way of living.

Shop 2/41-45 Murwillumbah Street, Murwillumbah

Phone: (02) 6672 2499

Positioned within the Eden Apartments complex just one street back from the sand, this elevated fifth-floor residence offers a rare opportunity to secure a light-filled coastal apartment in the heart of Rainbow Bay. One of only nineteen apartments in the building and with just two residences per floor, the north-east facing residence captures natural light and ocean breezes while enjoying the privacy of a well-maintained building

177 KENNEDY DRIVE, TWEED HEADS WEST

Positioned in a central growth corridor, this substantial 2,662sqm holding presents a rare opportunity to secure a large residential site with valuable dual street frontage. Offering immediate rental income from the existing house, the property provides flexibility for investors, developers or land-bankers looking to capitalise on a wellconnected Tweed Heads West location close to the river, beaches and key infrastructure. A scarce large-scale residential holding in a tightly held location, offering immediate income and outstanding future potential.

14 Tyrone Terrace Banora Point

DUAL LIVING FAMILY HOME - with scenic views'

Privately elevated on a 714m2 corner allotment to capture the cool summer breeze, you will feel right at home within this 4-bedroom residence that includes a versatile ground level 1 bedroom studio, equipped with kitchenette and own bathroom, ideal for dual living, home business or those seeking family independence.

• Self-contained 1 bedroom airconditioned studio with bathroom, kitchenette & private entry

• Open plan air-conditioned living & dining w/ polished timber flooring

169 Tweed Valley Way Murwillumbah

TRI-LEVEL FAMILY ENTERTAINER –imagine the lifestyle'

From the moment you arrive home, you will enjoy the natural waterfront ambience from most vantage points, within this light filled 4-bedroom residence, anchored on a prime 654m2 absolute riverfront allotment.

Buyer Guide $1.5M

Open Saturday Saturday 11:00-11:30am (NSW)

David Stringer 0418 150 731 david@djstringer.com.au

Buyer Guide $1.295M

Open Sat 9:00-9:30am (NSW)

David Stringer 0418 150 731 david@djstringer.com.au 4 3 2

16/19 Ivory Crescent

Tweed Heads

TRANQUIL WATERFRONT LIVINGGreenbank Island'

Immerse yourself into a healthy way of life from this solid first level 2-bedroom lifestyle unit (just one of 8 in this building) commanding splendid water views across rolling lawns of the ever-changing Tweed River. Buyer Guide $950K

Sat 12:00-12:30pm (NSW)

David Stringer 0418 150 731

6/311 Golden Four Drive Bilinga

LIVING THE BEACHFRONT DREAM

Immerse yourself into a beachy lifestyle from this original 3-bedroom first level residence (just one of 9 only) situated at the rear, however, enjoys a lovely ocean vista from the living area and water views from each bedroom.

2 2

9:00-9:30am (QLD) David Stringer 0418 150 731 david@djstringer.com.au

33 Inlet Drive

Tweed Heads West

TWO COUNCIL APPROVED DWELLINGS ON ONE TITLE - Endless options

This unique property offers two council-approved dwellings on one title, delivering an exceptional opportunity for investors seeking strong rental income. Equally appealing to owner-occupiers, the flexible layout allows you to live in one while renting the other.

Buyer Guide $1.295M

Open Sat 12:00-12:30pm (NSW)

Stringer 0418 150 731

HOW

TO ENTER

ENTRIES CLOSE TUESDAY 31st MARCH DRAWN WEDNESDAY 1st APRIL Take a photo of your entry and email: reception@djstringer.com.au or send via messages to Facebook: DJ Stringer Property Services or send via post to: 76 Griffith Street Coolangatta QLD 4225 or drop it into our office at: 76 Griffith Street Coolangatta

Riverfront Homestead - Equine Estate

Framed by the flowing Rous River and gazing directlyto the iconic silhouette of Mt Warning, this riverfront estate is a private rural sanctuary where luxury living, and world-class equine infrastructure exist in complete harmony. Welcome to 76 Dulguigan Road. Manicured paddocks, extensive stabling and a covered training arena create a professional-level equine environment, with infrastructure designed for efficiency and horse welfare. 76 Dulguigan Road,

Six

Landlord Review

‘’I had

‘’ - Belinda