Tweed Valley Weekly, January 12, 2023

Too early to call flood risk

By Jonathon Howard

THE THREAT of another strong La Niña system is beginning to ease, according to the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), but its forecasters were reluctant to say whether this means the Tweed will dodge a flood this wet season.

Whilst 2022 went down as a record year for flooding in the Tweed and Northern Rivers due to a strong La Niña, BOM senior meteorologist Dean Narramore said this year’s La Niña continues to weaken. However, La Niña remains an impact to water temperatures and Mr Narramore said it was important to remain “weather aware”.

“Every wet season and every La Niña is different, but La Niña this year is showing signs of weakening,” he told The Weekly.

“But don’t expect to get out of the trouble there just yet, you can still expect some heavy rain events and possible thunderstorms.

“We are seeing an easing of the La Niña,

but in saying that, the water temperature is above average, which means increased moisture.

“We remain in La Niña for the moment and we are looking at average to slightly above average rainfall for the Northern Rivers.

“We are in the wet season for the Northern Rivers until April.”

Mr Narramore said the long-range forecast remains a challenge to predict for the Northern Rivers and he held back any broad predictions including whether we could go flood free.

“As the La Niña weakens, there could be longer dry periods followed by periods of rain and thunderstorms, as seen in previous years,” he said.

Mr Narramore could not comment on whether the Tweed will experience another flood like the one in 2022.

“We are moving into the peak rain periods for Northern Rivers, which means heavy rain and storm activity which could lead to flooding, so it’s important to be

weather aware,” he said.

“So my advice is to be weather aware for the coming months as we move through the wet season.”

Mr Narramore encouraged residents to use the BOM website to assess updates and study the latest climate outlooks.

Tweed jobs boom

By Jonathon Howard

EMPLOYERS ARE crying out for staff in the disability, aged care and early childhood sectors in 2023 according to Ace Community College.

Ace Community College’s national RTO manager Robyn Keenan caught up with The Weekly recently to encourage anyone wanting to kick start the new year with training and a new job.

Based in Murwillumbah, Ace Community College boasts a range of courses and has an 80 per cent employment outcome for its students.

“Employers are in crisis in the three sectors of disability, aged care and early childhood,” Ms Keenan said.

“We have some students receiving job offers prior to completion of our courses, which is a good indicator of a high chance of securing a job.”

Ms Keenan said other sectors such as tourism and hospitality in the Tweed Shire are also in high demand and there are opportunities for seniors.

“Seniors are now able to work additional hours per week (check with Centrelink) which is luring some retirees back into the workforce,” she said.

“We have some clients who are eager to employ seniors and will work within their capacity.”

Ms Keenan said a lack of international

students, impacts of COVID-19 and industry layoffs has resulted in major changes to the job market.

“There are now large holes in the job markets that need filling now,” she said.

“We need to start from ground zero and rebuild and attract employees back to these sectors. We’re about two years behind.”

Ms Keenan provided some great tips for students and graduates wanting to find work this year.

“One of the best tips I can give first and foremost is upskill via Ace Community College,” she said.

“This is followed by the use of age old, tried and tested traditional job methods such as visiting local businesses with your resume. If you need help with your resume

presentation visit Ace Community College and we can help.”

Ms Keenan said an email to a potential employer will not always result in a job.

“Turning up, nicely presented with a resume and asking for a job onsite is still one of the most effective methods of securing employment, email is certainly a great start, but nothing compares to face to face,” Ms Keenan said.

“Employers receive a lot of emails and email applicants, and it’s not always easy for a business owner to go through them all. Showing up and asking for a job is proactive and shows initiative, it’s still a great way to get a job.”

Continued on Page 3, also check The Weekly Classifieds for more information and work opportunities.

JOB SEEKERS: Don't rely on the internet and emails alone to secure a job this year

Tweed could dodge a major flood this year, but no one is willing to call it

Why You Need Solar & Batteries Now!

Power Prices Rise by 18%

Australian electricity prices have risen by up to 18.3 per cent under a decision by the Australian Energy Regulator due to increased cost of generation due to global rises in coal and gas prices. The increases, which came into effect from July, amount to more than $250 a year based on ACCC figures putting the average residential electricity bill at $1,434. The

Feed in Tariffs for Solar Crash

Electricity retailers are in a price squeeze and have slashed the amount they pay for your excess solar, now paying zero - 8c per kWh, down from the 21c we were paid in 2020. Unless you have solar and batteries you are facing serious increases in energy costs. 888 Solar Tek have installed hundreds of solar battery systems in the last 8 years and can help you with great deals on the most reliable and long lasting solar batteries in Australia.

Two-ply toilet paper

For more than several years I have noticed and complained to various store officials at the big four retailers about a subject that no-one dares to mention in public.

If you are a country person and rely on a septic tank for your sewage waste disposal you will know the problem. It is common knowledge that rural septic tanks cannot handle three-ply toilet paper without a speeded-up failure and/or blockage rate.

The tanks cannot handle the extra load of thicker toilet paper and instead of lasting up to ten or fifteen years (depending on the size of your family) the tank begins blocking and malfunctioning well inside ten years — all for the sake of stocking a line of two-ply toilet paper that they have carried unnoticed for decades.

Now all of this would be purely academic was it not for the fact the big four appear to no longer stock two-ply!

I am drawing their collective awareness to the problem by promulgating this simple article in The Weekly.

It is up to you septic tank owners to begin influencing your retailer, or are you happy to pay $650 or more on septic maintenance fees for the privilege of silence?

I shall continue to check their shelves to judge the reaction(s) of the big four.

Ian Jefferys, Murwillumbah Christmas disappointment

I was disappointed to notice there was not a single Council Christmas decoration in Kingscliff or Cabarita this year. Both are premier regional holiday destinations not to mention home to an ever-growing population.

I realise it has been a difficult year with budgetary constraints and some previous vandalism, but neither of these negates the importance of the value of feel-good community spirit during the most important festival and holiday season in our calendar regardless of religious beliefs (remem-

bering, incidentally, we are a Christian country with Christian values). Just check out the obscene spending over Christmas to see how universally accepted Christmas is!

If ever there has been a more important time to share goodwill and community spirit it is now and Christmas decorations and recognition draws the community together in a small but important way. We need to challenge our bureaucrats to ensure we do not lose the celebration of Christmas for the sake of saving money or appeasing so-called political/religious correctness.

The lighting of Christmas trees and street decorations brings joy to all, particularly children. Just visit Tugun Lights Up in December each year to see how our close neighbours do it.

We need to lift our game in this spectacular region, not only for tourism but particularly for ourselves and not allow us to degenerate further into dullsville after dark.

The beautifully upgraded Kingscliff foreshore, as well as Marine Parade, is gloomy and uninviting after dark and Christmas lights and decoration may well have encouraged more regular visitation at night and better patronage for our struggling restaurants. After all, who is in charge here? Council bureaucrats or us the residents and ratepayers?

Leigh Kealton, Casuarina 2023 - a year of reconciliation?

As we move in to a new year, there is hope that 2023 will be remembered for the reconciliation that took place between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.

At the local level, we hope that members of the Wollumbin Stakeholders Advisory Committee will reach a compromise regarding access to Wollumbin National Park that is respectful of all stakeholders.

On a broader level, this could be the year when Indigenous Australians are finally recognised in the Constitution

and when a “Voice to Parliament” becomes a reality. If the process is successful, people of our nation will be able to look back with pride on 2023 and say, “That was the year when we finally started listening to Indigenous voices”.

Regarding the notion of a “Voice” there are some Indigenous and non-Indigenous people who would be more supportive of the referendum if any proposed legislation recognised the full range of Indigenous “voices” across the nation. Hopefully the government will heed this advice and make this clear in presenting the “Yes” case for the Referendum.

It is also hoped that the vast majority of voters will disregard the views of Indigenous National Party Senator Jacinta Price who claims that the Voice will be “divisive”. Ironically, she is the most vocal individual causing such division. In the development of the Uluru Statement from the Heart many voices were heard and yet consensus was reached on the notions of a Voice to Parliament, Truth-telling and a Treaty.

We hope those addressing the latest “Closing the Gap” report will see 2023 as the year when governments finally acknowledged that consultation with Indigenous leaders is vital before money is thrown at an issue.

Neville Jennings, Murwillumbah

Russophobia

Hi Stuart Hamilton, thank you for your reply (TVW Letters, December 29). I could refute your assertions but that would take more column inches than even the most patient editor would be willing to allow.

It was my intention to show the depth of fascism running beneath the surface, and occasionally overtly, in contemporary Europe. Fascism is the handmaiden of capitalism and capitalism is the very antithesis of democracy. Mussolini referred to fascism as ‘corporatism’.

It is strange that capitalism’s biggest enemies are free health, free educa-

tion and government-run institutions and services. They are socialist initiatives locking up money and resources that capitalists consider their exclusive preserve. A government working for and in the interests of the people is a total anathema to capitalism.

To my mind democracy should be absolute but to our politicians such a democracy is ‘mob rule’ or anarchism. I wanted a vote on whether we went to war with Iraq on WMDs.

Our PM chose to follow a lie that even Colin Powell didn’t believe.

Our last PM thought there was an awful lot of stuff that we didn’t need to know. Democracy is our right to know and to act accordingly.

Fascism for me is the denial of truth and freedom to seek the truth. It is covered up via ‘commercial in confidence’, covering up police corruption and judicial and political corruption. The list of prohibitions against us is far greater than a list of ‘rights’, only we don’t have a list of ‘rights’.

In Europe there is a hatred of Russia, whether it be ancient Imperial Russia, Soviet Russia or a fledgling capitalist Russia. There was a lot of Russophobia in Stuart’s reply. I don’t fear Russia or China, but through experience I do fear the US and US military fascism. And they already occupy us.

Bill Collins, Murwillumbah

Thanks Woolies Kingscliff

This is a shout out and a big thank you to all the staff at Woolworths Kingscliff, especially those on checkouts who put up with so much from some customers and the ‘shelf fillers’, day and night, who without them, the shelves would be bare. Perhaps a little more appreciation and thought from us all for these good people who are doing a jolly good job. Thank you.

Margie Coll, Kingscliff

Burringbar Arch

On August 15, 2019, at a meeting at the Burringbar Memorial Reserve and Masterson Park, approval was given by Tweed Shire Council (TSC),

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along with approval of the Executive of the Burringbar Community Association (BCA) for the Burringbar RSL (now known as Burringbar Chapter of the Pottsville District RSL Sub-Branch) to erect a timber archway at the eastern end of the Memorial Avenue of trees. TSC helped to prepare the site, relocate a picnic table setting, along with providing advice and support, and a proposition that a pathway be constructed as a walkway between the trees. The BCA was provided with the concept plan for the timber archway.

The erection of the archway was designed to commemorate a very significant milestone – the 100th anniversary of the formation of the RSL in the Burringbar district; formed on December 14, 1919. The formation of the RSL Sub-Branch, then known as the RSSILA occurred just four months after the planting of the Memorial Avenue of trees in honour of the 32 lads on the Honour Roll from Burringbar District killed in action during WWI.

The unveiling and dedication of the Centenary Arch was held on December 14, 2019. However, due to structural concerns and the need for clarification on the wording, the Arch was removed temporarily. With the Burringbar community currently invited to have their say regarding the reinstallation of the Arch, it’s important to note the suitability of the approved location as well as the historical significance of the location.

I write this as the Immediate Past President and former Life Member of the Burringbar RSL Sub-Branch. Phil Connor, Chapter Coordinator RSL Burringbar Please note the views on the letters page are that of the letter writer and not of the Tweed Valley Weekly. Letters must include a suburb and contact number for verification. Letters may be edited for length or legal reasons. Send your letters to editor@theweekly. net.au.

Tyalgum Road glimmer of hope

By Jonathon Howard

A GLIMMER of hope is emerging for Tyalgum Road to reopen under a temporary one-lane access model in the first half of 2023, cutting six months off the forecasted 12-month timeframe.

Tyalgum Road sustained a major landslip during the 2022 flood, making it one of the largest and most complex road projects in the Tweed.

Tweed Shire Council has since been working towards a solution for the road, which remains closed, and the wheels are in motion for a temporary solution that could get the road up and running in the first six months of 2023.

The Weekly caught up with Council’s manager of infrastructure delivery, Tim Mackney, who said it was Council’s highest priority to have Tyalgum Road and other all other flood-impacted roads open.

Councillors recently voted to reject a tendering offer for Tyalgum Road during an extraordinary meeting in December 2022.

Councillors have made a move designed to speed up the process of approving the final design and construction work on the landslip, and unanimously agreed to decline the offers submitted for the project and negotiate.

They agreed with a recommendation to authorise Council’s General Manager Troy Green to delegate authority to the relevant Council department, which will allow final discussions on design and construction to be held without having to go back to Councillors for further approval.

The move will allow Council’s flood recovery team to work through various issues connected with restoring Tyalgum Road, the site of the Tweed’s largest and most complicated landslip caused by the

2022 floods.

“The contractor who we finally select and who will ultimately come up with the plans to permanently resolve the road slip, could cut a temporary road access through the Tyalgum Road landslip area, which could allow for some traffic to access a one-way road into Tyalgum,” Mr Mackney said.

“The permanent solution would take 12 months, pending weather, but Council was not satisfied with this timeframe and has stressed the need for a temporary road solution as suggested.

“We can’t cut a temporary access through it today, as the slope is still moving and this would be dangerous.

“However, during the contraction for the permanent works enough stabilisation could’ve been undertaken to enable a temporary access on Tyalgum Road, before permanent works are finalised.”

Meanwhile, a $6 million tender to design and construct the repair of Reserve Creek Road, which suffered a significant landslip in the February flood, has been awarded to SEE Civil Pty Ltd following an extraordinary meeting.

The works on Reserve Creek Road are expected to get underway early this year with the potential to also have a temporary road solution in place within the next six months.

Mr Mackney said the complexity of the Tyalgum Road slip had been a huge challenge for contractors bidding for the work and analysis of the site had taken considerable time.

“We have had positive discussions and consultations with the contractors, but there are still some issues which have to be resolved to ensure the restoration work is appropriate,” Mr Mackney said.

Don’t let the sun harm you

AS A doctor working in the Tweed Shire, I feel most of us recognise the importance of sun safety.

But recently I am increasingly alarmed, witnessing far too many sunburns in all ages.

On a recent outing I had even gone so far as to almost approach a group of shirtless runners and offer up my sunscreen that I always tote around with me.

To give my concern context I work as a skin cancer GP at Tweed Health for Everyone Superclinic in Tweed Heads and I am very passionate about skin cancer prevention!

This article is my first in a three part series looking into skin cancer education and prevention.

I often tell my patients both young and old “did you know two out of every three of us will get a skin cancer before the age of 65?”.

To which many respond in some form of a surprised reply. In fact, I often like to talk about sun safety. We live in a geographically unique part of the world that has one of the highest incidences of Melanoma and other skin cancers!

It’s scary at just how intense the UV index is on most days. Even the dash from home to

work on a day where the UV index is three or above should prompt you to pop sunscreen and a hat on routinely.  There is very strong medical evidence to support just how important sunscreen and covering up is at reducing this high risk of skin cancer – and it’s not too late to start!

So I hope that this brief article spurs you into reconsidering your approach to sun safety and acts as a reminder to book in to see your doctor for a skin check.

Who knows it could just save your life!

“The awarding of the Reserve Creek Road tender and Council’s approval to finalise the contract for Tyalgum Road is very welcome and good news for local residents.”

The decision to award the contract to SEE Civil Pty Ltd will enable the company to proceed with further design work to repair Reserve Creek Road early in the new year.

It is hoped negotiations with bidders on the Tyalgum Road landslip will be completed early in 2023.

It is part of Council’s commitment to delivering a safe and connected road network that will be able to handle increased volumes of traffic as the Tweed grows.

Mr Mackney said there are another six tenders in the pipeline expected to close in January including Kyogle Road.

Plans are in motion to open Tyalgum Road

Dr Solano at work in the Superclinic at Tweed Heads

Guilty or not guilty – could a computer be the judge?

Weighing up the pros and cons of a case, discarding irrelevancies, assessing the likelihood of statements being the truth or a lie… it’s all in a day’s work for a judge in a court. But could a computer do the same thing? Programmed properly, could a computer weigh the evidence presented in a court case and decide whether the defendant is guilty or not guilty?

Early in 2021 the Federal Court of Australia ruled that an inventor can be non-human, meaning that an artificial intelligence (AI) could hold a patent. It was later overturned on appeal, but for the AI it was a shining moment of legal recognition.

In some overseas courts, AI has been accepted as part of the legal judgment process.

The University of NSW reports Estonia has used an AI judge to adjudicate small claim disputes, such as contract claims valued under 7,000 Euros.

Canada has used AI to decide some areas of law, such as strata property disputes and motor vehicle claims below a certain value.

According to Professor Michael Legg of UNSW, computer algorithms can be used to review large numbers of judgments or other data to find whether particular injuries receive compensation in a specific dollar range, or how to divide property in divorce proceedings.

Prof Legg says predictive analytics can overcome human biases in decision making by finding correlations through harnessing enormous amounts of computing power and data.

According to a paper by UNSW and others, research groups have developed computers which are able to predict the outcomes of decisions in various courts, including the Australian Federal Court and courts in Europe.

Machine learning programs have been used to predict the outcomes of securities fraud class actions and intellectual property lawsuits. AI has been used to predict decisions by particular judges, based on their history.

Courts in China use AI to give judges a warning if their judgment does not match what a database predicted it ought to be, particularly in sentencing, and send a warning to the judge’s superiors.

In the US, AI is used in bail and sentencing to predict the likelihood that an accused will reoffend. The system, called COMPAS, has been used in more than a million court hearings.

Anneka Frayne at Stacks Law Firm warns AI is only as good as the data provided to it, and while it may assist in administration of courts, computers have no place on the judicial bench.

“In matters that involve open justice, judicial discretion, procedural fairness, impartiality and even compassion, humans will always be needed to sit in judgment,” Ms Frayne said.

Responsibility for comment is taken by Stacks Law Firm

Support local businesses

By Jonathon Howard

TWEED BUSINESS Chamber is calling on residents to think local, shop local and support Tweed Shire business in 2023.

Tweed Chamber president Warren Polglase said Tweed businesses are family owned and operated, and after several challenging years, “they’re eager to bounce back”.

“From the Tweed Business Chamber’s view, local businesses are expected to increase profits on the previous years, especially after shaking off COVID-19,” Mr Polglase said.

“Some of the drivers for businesses this year is learning to operate with less staff.”

Mr Polglase commented on growing concerns around interest rates which are expected to stabilise in the second quarter of 2023.

“If you go back to 2010, interest rates were around six to seven per cent, so we’ve had a honeymoon period in the Tweed and now we need to learn to work smarter,” he said.

Mr Polglase said he remains confident that supply chain issues from last year will improve in the first quarter of 2023 for trades, including building supplies, farming equipment and retail stock.

“The prices on products are also beginning to stabilise, which is great news for Tweed businesses, but there are some challenges with staffing,” he said.

“I feel businesses will absorb some of the increases this year, but in saying that consumers should expect some price rises

on certain products.

“My focus is reminding everyone to support these local businesses by thinking local, shopping local and supporting our Tweed operators.

“I think there’s also a lot of enquiries from larger businesses that are now looking closely at the Tweed.

“For example, Leda is now calling for expressions of interest for Kings Forest housing, which is another big step for the Tweed Coast.

“One of the major drivers behind this renewed Tweed business push is the new Tweed Valley Hospital which will come online this year.”

Mr Polglase also wanted to encourage local businesses to get involved with the Tweed Business Awards in 2023.

“We have some great ideas and sponsors already supporting the Tweed Business Awards and this is a great opportunity to get some well-deserved recognition for your business,” he said.

To find out more about the Tweed Business Awards please contact event coordinator Julie West on 0412 899 934.

over Australia to visit our beautiful shire and enjoy our fantastic beaches, beautiful hinterland, incredible food and drink offerings, and unique tourism experiences,” he said.

“One of the things that visitors love about Tweed is the incredible hospitality and vibrant community that we have, and I know many people that just love coming back here, again and again.

the

Chamber of Commerce response:

“Now that the Covid mayhem has settled down people are increasingly looking to get away to places like Kingscliff to relax, recharge and have some fun with family and friends I don’t see this stopping any time soon, in fact, I think it is just going to get busier and busier, which is fantastic for all of our businesses that make a living from the tourist and visitor dollars.

“I also know that locals are getting out and about more and embracing our local cafes, restaurants, pubs, clubs, and healthy lifestyle opportunities that Kingscliff has to offer.”

Town vandalism rampage

By Jonathon Howard

A SHOP window was smashed in an act of senseless vandalism at Tweed Palliative Second-hand Store on Queen Street in Murwillumbah on Monday, January 9.

Store manager Edna Gorton told The Weekly an unknown male wearing black shorts with no shirt or shoes went on a violent rampage around the main street at about 6pm.

“We believe the man used a chair that was donated to the shop to smash a large panel window in one of our shopfronts (pictured right),” she said.

“We then think he’s proceeded to smash

a car window of a local nurse across the road.”

The man was described as yelling obscenities and was “out of his mind” according to witnesses.

Fortunately, Tweed Police were able to respond and apprehended the alleged offender in Murwillumbah’s CBD.

Edna said it was quite an ordeal and she’s emphasised the need not to leave items on the footpath when the store is closed.

“We need people to stop dropping off items when we are closed or on weekends,” she said.

“It’s creating unnecessary clutter outside

and it needs to stop.”

The damaged window was repaired on Tuesday, January 10, at a cost of around $1,000.

Edna said she was okay after the ordeal and only a little shaken up.

Both Edna and the car owner provided police with a statement.

“I’d like to thank Tweed Police and Vince for coming to our aid so quickly,” she said.

David Crossan Lawyer

Read

Kingscliff

K ingscliff & District Chamber of Commerce president James Owen is also encouraging the buy local principle and says he sees a bright road ahead for Tweed Coast businesses.

“Tweed coastal business in and around Kingscliff have enjoyed a bumper holiday season with tourists flocking from all

SHOP LOCAL: Tweed businesses need our support in 2023

Tweed Link

189L a day

Access track to Dreamtime Beach closed

Council has temporarily closed the access track to Dreamtime Beach, off Lagoon Road in Fingal Head.

There will be no vehicle and pedestrian access while works to address safety and environmental concerns at the popular track are underway. Works will take about 4 weeks to complete, weather permitting

The old quarry track is unsealed and poorly drained, with a lack of parking and other facilities.

Emergency vehicles are often unable to access Dreamtime Beach due to parked vehicles blocking the beach access track. This is a serious safety concern for the community as Dreamtime Beach is a dangerous swimming beach.

Unrestricted vehicle access and illegal camping are also causing damage to endangered coastal wetlands and rainforest so Council is taking action to reduce our impact on the natural environment.

Works to resurface the car park with gravel and repair the track for emergency vehicles have started.

A car parking area at the start of the track will be formalised to ensure safe pedestrian access to the beach. However, vehicle access along the old quarry track will be restricted to emergency vehicles only.

For the safety of crews and the community, the access track will be closed to all vehicles and pedestrians for the duration of the works. Visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/roadworks for updates.

It’s time to get rid of insinkerators

Council is urging residents with insinkerators to use green-lid bins instead.

When food scraps are thrown into green-lid bins, they become topquality compost, thanks to the Tweed Organics Processing Facility.

When scraps are thrown into insinkerators, they head into the wastewater system and help cause sewer blockages.

Scraps that make it to wastewater treatment plants mix with sewage.

It takes a lot of energy (electricity) to turn the mix into safe biosolids for disposal.

Food scraps are for worms, not pipes.

Keep food scraps out of the wastewater network by getting rid of your insinkerator and using a green-lid bin instead.

It’s better for our environment.

Green-lid bins are available from Council.

Head to tweed.nsw.gov.au/green-lid-bins to find out more.

The rail trail is coming!

Work on the Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is in the final months of construction, with the exciting new attraction set to open to the public in March this year.

Subscribe to the Northern Rivers Rail Trail E-newsletter to be the first to know about opening celebrations and upcoming expressions of interest for the Rail Trail Partner Program.

Council will call for expressions of interest for the Rail Trail Partner Program later this month. Adjoining landowners and local businesses who want to be part of the region’s newest must-do experience – for both visitors and residents – should start to consider the commercial opportunities the rail trail will bring.

Subscribe at northernriversrailtrail.com.au

Don’t be a goon, just ditch the balloon

A complete ban on the use of balloons in all Council buildings, parks and outdoor areas came into effect on 1 January.

'Don’t be a goon, ditch the balloon' is the message from Council as we all play our part in caring for our internationally significant environment,

Balloons, once a party staple, have been found to wreak havoc on animals and marine life. Whether foil, latex or made from so-called environmentally-friendly materials, all balloons have the potential to cause harm to our local ecosystems.

Even products labelled biodegradable can still take years to decay. In that time, they can be devastating to animals that swallow parts of them or get tangled in the strings they are often attached to.

The total balloon ban follows Council’s move in September last year to prohibit the release of helium balloons on Council-owned land. It also falls in line with the NSW Government’s ban on single-use plastics which was recently widened to include items such as plastic containers and cups, stirrers, and plastic microbeads.

It is important to note the total balloon ban does not extend to events held on privately-owned land.

Council is encouraging the community to share their balloon alternatives. Use the tag #ditchtheballoon on social media to highlight the ideas you’ve come up with.

For more information on the harmful effect of balloons on the environment, visit cleanup.org.au/balloons. For ideas on balloon alternatives, you can also visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/ditchtheballoon

Get your fill of clean fill

Council is looking for landowners interested in accepting clean fill from our construction projects and flood repairs.

Each year, Council excavates about 10,000 tonnes of clean fill. As part of their commitment to reduce impact on the natural environment Council is always looking for ways to reuse the material rather than disposing of it in landfill.

Eligible landowners can apply to take loads of clean fill to use on their property such as to build-up sites for farm sheds or pads above flood levels for stock and machinery.

Properties must be suitable for a tandem truck to access. During periods of wet weather, fill will only be delivered to properties with all-weather access.

To register your interest or for more information visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/disposal-of-fill

Applications will be assessed against relevant planning and land zoning controls.

Council donates to vital community rescue helicopter service

Council has again thrown its support behind the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, donating more than $16,800 to the vital aeromedical service.

Funds donated to the service are used for the upkeep and maintenance of their rescue helicopter, fuel, training for staff and more. The previous Tweed donation went towards building a storage facility at the hangar.

Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service Major Gifts & Donors Manager Zeke Huish thanked the Tweed for its support.

“Tweed Shire Council’s support is very significant and is something we do not take for granted,” Mr Huish said.

“As a local charity we can’t thank Council and the residents of the Tweed Shire enough for their continued support to help us save lives throughout the region.”

In 2021/22, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service completed 1,494 missions across Northern NSW from its bases in Newcastle, Tamworth, and Lismore. In all, 413 of these missions were performed from their Lismore base which services the region from Nambucca through to the Queensland border and west to Tenterfield.

Their missions cover a wide variety of medical emergencies, including search and rescue operations, injuries from motor vehicles and motorcycle accidents, medical conditions, industrial and sporting injuries, burns, drownings and falls, as well as inter-hospital transfers.

The Northern Rivers-based service has been in operation since 1982 and has grown to become a vital 24-7 aeromedical operation. It is reliant upon community fundraising and strong partnerships such as that with Tweed Shire Council to ensure its quality, reliability, and sustainability.

Tweed

The Dreamtime Beach access track at Fingal Head is closed to vehicles and pedestrian during upgrade works.

The Westpac Rescue Helicopter on standby at the service's Lismore base.

Measuring the cost of the 2022 flood

As a new year begins, we take stock of the year that was so dominated by the flood of February 2022 – the biggest flood in the Tweed’s recorded history which devastated much of the region.

The destruction and damage to the Tweed’s infrastructure, services, businesses and individuals caused widespread angst and distress and the financial cost amounts to many millions of dollars.

The community was hit hard by the 2022 floods. More than 2,100 homes were damaged and of those, 500 were deemed no longer habitable and an estimated 1,600 people required temporary accommodation.

Getting the Tweed up and running again has been a focus for Council and the many organisations involved in recovery efforts.

Restoration of infrastructure and services

Restoration works commenced in March and will continue through 2023 and well into 2024. Supporting the Tweed’s recovery by reconnecting communities and restoring infrastructure and assets has been a priority for Council.

The challenge has been not just to restore infrastructure but where feasible, incorporate greater resilience.

The total damage bill from the floods of February and March for Council has been revised up and is now estimated at more than $110 million.

A large portion of the cost has been damage to the road network, including 10 significant landslips which have caused major disruptions to the community.

Restoring the road network has been a complicated and lengthy process with an estimated road damage bill of more than $90 million. To date, a total of 3,780 road damages have been identified which is more than double that following the 2017 ex-Cyclone Debbie floods and does not include minor repairs such as potholes.

As at the end of November, Council has spent more than $39 million on flood restoration works. The bulk of this expenditure is in road repairs including:

• Council has completed 100% of the Emergency Works – 730

• Council has completed 76% of Immediate Reconstruction Work –1601 out of 2104 locations

• Council has repaired 36,242 potholes.

The flood recovery has included a massive clean-up operation, removing flood debris and commercial and residential items destroyed or damaged in the floods.

The cost of the waste collection and disposal was $4.1million.

• This involved clearing 26,000 tonnes of flood waste including household goods (equivalent to an additional 2/3 of the annual waste volume the community usually produces)

• Among this waste was 1,440 tonnes of asbestos

• An estimated 75,000 tonnes of mud debris were also collected and removed (including setting up a temporary waste processing facility with approvals from the Environmental Protection Authority).

Some 90 Council buildings were damaged in the floods along with damage to items such as water and sewerage, flood mitigation and waterway assets.

The estimated cost to restore these facilities is in the order of $20 million. To date more than $2.15 million worth of repairs have been carried out including:

• Repairs to community assets and parks - $850,000

• Council depot repairs - $600,000

• Water and wastewater repairs - $700,000

• Flood mitigation assets - $300,000.

There’s more to this article than we have the room to include here. Visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/latest-news to read more.

Students plant trees to protect threatened birds

More than 100 year 4 children from Lindisfarne Junior School recently participated in tree planting and bollard painting at a newly-installed habitat enhancement site to protect the Glossy Black-Cockatoos and Bush Stone-curlews at Old Fingal Boat Harbour Park at Fingal Head.

Council and local residents created a ‘safe haven’ for the 2 threatened bird species at Fingal Head as part of the ‘conserving cockatoos and curlews on the Tweed Coast’ this year. The project focuses on conservation efforts by managing known key threats, including habitat loss and disturbance, predation and disturbance by people, domestic pets and feral animals.

Read the full story at tweed.nsw.gov.au/latest-news

Tweed

FREE Twilight Movies on The Tweed

The Emoji Movie on Friday 13 January (approx. start of 8.15 pm)

Red Dog, True Blue on Friday 10 February (approx. start of 8 pm)

The pop-up screen will be set up in the large, grassed area beside the exciting new inclusive playground, Goorimahbah - Place of Stories.

You are encouraged to travel by public transport, walk, ride, skate or scoot.

Pop- up coffee kiosk

Tweed Shire Council is trialling a pop-up coffee kiosk at Jack Evans Boat Harbour until the end of February. Coffee and other drinks, as well as sweet and savoury treats, will be available.

Trading hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 6.30 am - 2.30 pm. The pop-up kiosk will be located near the exciting new inclusive playground, Goorimahbah - Place of Stories. Come visit and enjoy these pop-up events.

Tell us what you think on yoursaytweed.com.au/lovejackevans

Both of these pop-up events are supported by the NSW State Government as a part of the Places to Love initiative and will inform and guide the future use of the space.

Council seeks support to apply for Special Rate Variation

Tweed Shire Council is seeking to apply for a 2.35% rise in general rates in addition to the 4.0% rate rise approved for the Tweed by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) – to meet the rising costs of delivering services and ensuring information systems are up to date and secure.

The Special Rate Variation (SRV) application is necessary as Council service delivery costs have increased significantly over the past 12 to 24 months and to ensure our information systems are up to date and secure. If the financial position has not improved over the longer term, services will have to be reduced and assets will not be renewed when needed.

As a resident or ratepayer, you are invited to have your say.

• Give feedback or leave a comment on yoursaytweed.com.au/srv

• Email: tsc@tweed.nsw.gov.au

• Mail: Address to the General Manager, Tweed Shire Council, Civic and Cultural Centre, 10-14 Tumbulgum Road, Murwillumbah NSW 2484.

Additionally, the community will have the opportunity to provide submissions to IPART following Council submitting the SRV application. This will occur during March/April 2023. Have your say

Learn more about the Special Rate Variation application on yoursaytweed.com.au/srv

Enquiries: Arthur Piggott, Senior Accountant

Phone: 02 6670 2400

Submissions

Visit yoursaytweed.com.au to learn more and make a submission.

Submissions can also be made to the General Manger, Tweed Shire Council, PO Box 816 Murwillumbah 2484 or email tsc@tweed.nsw.gov.au

Enquiries: Danny Rose, Manager Roads & Stormwater

Phone: 02 6670 2400

Tweed Byron Local Aboriginal Land Council Ranger Tommy Byrnes with Lindisfarne year 4 students at the Fingal Head habitat enhancement site. Tommy talked to the students and teachers about incorporating stories as part of their artwork when painting the bollards.

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

Shire Council is starting 2023 with some exciting community activations at Jack Evans Boat Harbour.

Here is the flood recovery update for 11 January 2023

Community Centre resumes service

The Murwillumbah Community Centre (MCC) has resumed normal services for 2023 at the Coolamon Centre in Murwillumbah.

The MCC service will also be operating from the Anglican Church at 41 Pearl St, Kingscliff.

For those seeking flood recovery support, bookings are required. For more information contact the MCC on 02 6672 3003.

Service NSW will operate on Tuesday, 10 January and 17 January 2023. After this date, service numbers to be reviewed to determine if remain open.

If decision to close a 4-week notice period will be given to public. Recovery assistance will continue from Services NSW office at Canvas and Kettle.

For further information please contact Service NSW on 13 77 88.

Pottsville Recovery Support Service back after break

The Pottsville Beach Neighbourhood Centre has reopened for faceto-face appointments, including Recovery Support Service (RSS). They link people to their own personalised recovery support worker, who can help them navigate and access services and disaster assistance packages.

The recovery support workers also support people with the ongoing emotional, physical and financial impacts of floods, which may impact their longer term health and wellbeing.

The Pottsville Beach Neighbourhood Centre is located at 10b – 12a Elizabeth St, Pottsville. For more information, call 02 6676 4555 or 0476 677 422, email rss@pbnc.org.au

Chinderah Donation Hub reopens next week

The Chinderah Donation Hub, located at 23/18 Ozone Street, Chinderah, in the Chinderah Industrial Estate (behind the BP Service Centre), located between Supaloc and Chinderah Motors, will reopen on Monday, 16 January 2023.

Services NSW staff will continue outreach services resuming on Thursday from 9 am to 4 pm as numbers continue to be high and consistent.

Scenic Drive update

Another milestone in the restoration of Scenic Drive will be achieved when contractor Australian Marine and Civil Pty Ltd (AMC) seals a new restored section of road at site A on Tuesday 17 January from 10am.

This section of the road will be in “caretaker mode” with both lanes open for use, having water filled barriers against the down side of the road and reduced speed to 40km.

Starting this month, further works will commence including guard rail instalment and line marking.

Traffic lights will still be functioning for this site as only one lane will be in use until sealing is completed.

Once this is completed, work will then commence on pavement works, kerb and guttering, batter works and the installation of guard rails.

The road is open with a temporary one lane access to all vehicles under traffic control. There is no footpath or pedestrian access.

Traffic controllers will monitor flows and meet the needs of peak demand times so please be patient and allow extra time for travel.

Tyalgum Road

In a move designed to speed up the process of approving the final design and construction work on the Shire’s largest landslip at Tyalgum Road, Councillors have agreed to decline the offers submitted for this project and negotiate.

They agreed with a recommendation to authorise Council’s General Manager Troy Green to delegate authority to the relevant Council department, which will allow final discussions on design and construction to be held without having to go back to the Councillors for further approval.

The move will allow Council’s flood recovery team to work through various issues connected with restoring Tyalgum Road, the site of the Tweed’s largest and most complicated land slip caused by the 2022 floods.

Manager of Infrastructure Delivery Tim Mackney said the complexity of the Tyalgum Road slip had been a huge challenge for contractors bidding for the work and analysis of the site had taken considerable time.

“We have had positive discussions and consultations with the contractors, but there are still some issues which have to be resolved to ensure the restoration work is appropriate,” Mr Mackney said.

It is hoped negotiations with bidders on the Tyalgum Road landslip will be completed early in 2023.

A round table meeting between the NSW Government and Tweed Shire Council representatives and the Tyalgum community is planned for Tuesday 31 January 2023.

Reserve Creek Road

A $6 million tender to design and construct the repair of Reserve Creek Road, which suffered a significant landslip in the February flood, has been awarded to SEE Civil Pty Ltd.

The decision to award the $5,978,367 contract to SEE Civil Pty Ltd

will enable the company to proceed with further design work to repair Reserve Creek Road early in the new year.

The Reserve Creek Road landslip presents a major design and engineering challenge, with the road significantly undermined by a 15-metre high, near-vertical landslip which occurred during the February-March flood.

Transport for NSW has confirmed in-principle funding approval to cover the cost of repairs.

Council is aware of the issues facing the local community and the significant connectivity impacts associated with the road closure and are doing everything we can to expedite the repair process and deliver a safe and connected local road network.

Visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/flood-recovery-works and click on ‘flood recovery on our roads’ to find out more.

Construction work on Site A on Scenic Drive.

By Jonathon Howard

DRINK DRIVING remains at record highs in the Tweed Shire, according to Tweed Police, who were kept busy nabbing more than 40 offenders over the holiday period.

Operation Christmas/New Year was a 12-day traffic blitz targeting factors that contribute to road fatalities, according to Tweed Police Chief Inspector David Vandergriend.

He said local officers carried out 5,514 random and organised stops of drivers throughout the operation and the results were shocking.

“This returned 40 drink driving offences, 18 positive roadside drugs tests, 68 speeding offences, 13 seatbelt offences and 12 mobile phone offences,” he said.

“There were also another 275 driving offences, including not securing a load and unroadworthy, to name a few.

“These are the unfortunate statistics that have placed Tweed-Byron Police District on top of the state for drink driving.

“There’s also a high collision rate involving alcohol in this area.”

When asked why the Tweed remains a hotspot for drink driving in NSW, Ch Insp Vandergriend said a lack of planning is at the core of the issue.

“I think it’s more about planning and having a ‘Plan B’ in place — or put in place pre-arranged plans to transport you home,” he said.

“Wherever you are at licenced premises, always look to alternative options.

“There are some venues that offer courtesy buses or have a dedicated driver.

“At the end of the day, every police car has the ability to perform a breath test and officers are always on the lookout.

“It’s about community safety on our roads and making it as safe as we can.”

Car thefts from syndicates

In further news, Ch Insp Vandergriend said Tweed Police continue to see vehicle thefts from local and mostly Queensland offenders, “especially from young adults and even children”.

“A lot of these offenders are members of crime syndicates, and they are assigned these tasks, such as car thefts and break-ins, knowing they are dealt with differently,” he said.

“The system is designed to give young offenders more options, which is designed to discourage them from reoffending, which some choose to exploit.”

He said ensuring your home and property is secure should be a priority for everyone.

“Security is the biggest thing, ensure your property is secured and any valuables are out of sight,” he said.

“It’s all opportunistic crime and residents can avoid becoming a victim by remaining vigilant of their own security.”

By Jonathon Howard

IT’S A new year and residents are being reminded to be aware of new scams that are targeting those looking for work.

Job seekers are being urged to protect their personal information when applying for jobs through social media platforms or messaging services such as WhatsApp, according to the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC).

There have been more than 3,194 reports of job scams made to Scamwatch in the past year, and many of the victims were lured on the promise of making money quickly.

“Thousands of young Australians have finished school and graduated from university, with high hopes about their future careers and the intention to look for work in the new year,” ACCC deputy chair Delia Rickard said. “Unfortunately, they are being targeted by scammers.

“We know younger people are particularly vulnerable, with Australians aged between 25 and 44 reporting the biggest losses to job scams.”

“If you are job hunting and you are offered work that requires little effort for a big financial reward it is most likely a scam. This might include repeatedly clicking a button on a website or app to purchase products or submit reviews.”

Scammers will often ask for a payment in exchange for a guaranteed income. They pretend to be hiring on behalf of high-profile companies and online shopping platforms and impersonate well-known recruitment agencies.

“In the final months of 2022, we saw a significant uptick in reports and losses associated with recruitment scams and we are concerned these scammers will continue to ramp up their efforts as people look for work in the new year,” Ms Rickard said.

“With many Australians looking to make the most of a highly competitive job market, we are urging job seekers to be wary of opportunities that seem too good to be true. Never make a payment or upfront investment to secure a job.

If you think you’ve been scammed, contact your bank or financial institution immediately.”

Fingal education hub

By Yvonne Gardiner

THE future for Indigenous youth in the Tweed looks brighter after the handover of generous NSW Government grants to the Tweed Byron Local Aboriginal Land Council’s Land and Sea Ranger program at Fingal Head.

Then Acting Premier and Minister for Regional NSW, Paul Toole, and Minister for Regional Youth, Ben Franklin, attended in person on December 20 to make the announcement that $522,000 had been earmarked for an education facility for the Tweed and Byron Aboriginal community, especially youth at risk.

A further $380,000 will expand “River Tracks”, a Growing Our Youth project which supports Tweed young people.

Mr Toole said Elders at the education hub would run life skills programs that would cover budgeting, shopping, and preparing a weekly

cook-up for the wider Aboriginal community.

Member for Tweed Geoff Provest said the funding would support a much-needed service for local youth.

“This is a significant investment in our region and I’m very pleased to see funding go to an organisation that is working to enhance the lives and wellbeing of young people,” he said.

Tweed Byron Local Aboriginal Land Council chairman Des Williams said the investment in the Fingal Head education hub was very important.

Elders meet there to steer the language program, and young rangers use it as a base.

Mr Williams said the hub would help with studies and encourage young people to stay on at school.

“It’ll bring us all together,” he said.

“We’d love to have some marine biologists come out of here.”

Varroa mite concerns

THE NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) is reminding Tweed beekeepers to carry out mandatory surveillance on their hives as part of the effort to eradicate Varroa mite.

Surveillance of hives in the purple zone, which now includes Coffs Harbour, has identified one new infested premises, bringing the total infested premises to 107.

The provision, which was introduced under the Emergency Order in September 2022, requires beekeepers to conduct alcohol washes at least every 16 weeks and report the results to DPI.

Varroa mite Emergency Response Coordinator Chris Anderson said the beekeeping community has shown strong support for eradication, after Varroa mite was detected in sentinel hives near the Port of Newcastle in June.

“Surveillance is a critical part of the effort required to achieve the goal of eradicating the mite and we need beekeepers to work with us to establish the base of data needed to maintain confidence in containment,” Mr Anderson said.

“The requirement for beekeepers to carry out alcohol wash surveillance on their hives at least three times a year, no more than 16 weeks apart, was introduced alongside other measures that provided more flexibility for

essential beekeeping operations to continue.”

“That data, along with our surveillance operations, is vital to the response because even negative results will help us to establish a more comprehensive picture of the situation.

“It is the responsibility of beekeepers to ensure they are aware of and are meeting their requirements under the Emergency Order as non-compliance can result in significant penalties and fines.”

Due to the measure being introduced in September 2022, all beekeepers should have completed the alcohol wash process at least once by mid-January.

Beekeepers can report results of alcohol washes to DPI by calling 1800 084 881 or via the online form at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/alcohol-wash

The DPI response team has tested close to 12,000 hives in the surveillance purple zone and more than 30,000 hives state-wide to date, in addition to around 85,000 alcohol wash results reported from beekeepers, many as part of the requirements of hive movement declarations. It is estimated that there are more than 380,000 registered hives currently in NSW.

For more information about the Varroa mite response visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/varroa

RIGHT: Member for Tweed Geoff Provest (left) joins rangers, NSW Government ministers and Tweed Byron Local Aboriginal Land Council chairman Des Williams (right) at the Fingal Head education hub site

ABOVE: Tweed Byron Local Aboriginal Land Council Land and Sea Ranger program supporters welcome new funding

Varroa mite remains a major concern for the Northern Rivers with a case in Coffs Harbour recently

Help from Banora Tweed Rotary

By Madeleine Murray

AFTER THE devastating floods last year, the Banora Tweed Rotary Club looked for a way to help.

The club decided to work with the Chinderah Flood Recovery Centre to help flood victims at the Royal Pacific Caravan Park find a way back to normal life and set goals for the future.

Clive Rimell, president elect of the club, was chosen as coach to help people work their way through the application requirements and apply for government funding. Most of the impacted found this very difficult. Not only were they traumatised, but many critical documents had been swept into the sea.

The role of coach required considerable patience and attention to detail — supporting the applicants, and helping them to see a way through. At this point most had lost hope.

“I had an opportunity to work with people badly affected by the floods to obtain grants from Service NSW,” Clive told The Weekly.

“This was a really rewarding experience as they had lost most of their documents in the flood and duplicates had to be obtained, but we got a result.

“When I heard that the grants had been successful, it was a great feeling to know that we had made a difference to some lives.

“I’m really pleased with the outcomes we have seen so far. Residents can focus on the future with more certainty and get on with rebuilding their lives following this terrible event.”

Jack Wilson, foundation director of the club, worked with owners to help them put together a plan for restoring their vans,

annexes, or transportable houses.

One of the key elements for this role was building a vision for the future and helping people make decisions that met their needs and were within their budgets.

Many found decision-making very difficult as they were still traumatised.

The generosity of people was stunning, with many Rotary members, friends of Rotary and local businesses donating their time and financial resources.

Rotary provided initial direct funding to some survivors for immediate day-to-day expenses.

Building materials were donated. Volunteers made curtains, repaired many things including special keepsakes, and

gave over 1000 hours of time.

The significant government grants bought new flooring, walls, ceilings, kitchens and furniture. The money helped with cooking, washing, and replacing or restoring belongings.

A woman whose van was restored, said, “The biggest gift that Rotary and you guys did was giving me hope again. I couldn’t see any future before you came.”

The floodwaters have subsided but the pain remains for many as the future is unclear.

The challenge continues. The club is still working to restore and rebuild more units in the caravan park.

Tweed loses local legend

CONDOLENCES

The Weekly incorrectly cropped an image of Mr Garbett in our New Year double edition and wanted to reprint the image. The correct image is printed above.

“Birt dug out the whole back paddock to build a cricket field from a grazing paddock,” club president Matt Sutton said.

“He put in all the pitches and spent eight weeks bulldozing, grading and levelling the field.”

Birt was invited to send down the first ball and on the first day of play on the ground his son Geoff scored 114 not out which must have been a wonderful thing to witness.

Birt loved his club and passed away peacefully on November 26 to join his wife Evelyn, leaving a tribe of kids, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Now that’s a life well lived.

The Old Boys Day on December 17 had a great turnout in honour of Birt and his family.

The editor would like to apologise for the image mistake.

Funding What Matters

Happy New Year to all. What a year we are walking into, and what a year we are probably all very happy to now have in the rear-view mirror! ere are two key topics we wanted to write about today - interest rates, and in ation. To be fair, we couldn’t address one without the other but the rst is straight forward as it currently stands. e second is a very big topic, and quite scary when you understand what it means, for retirees especially.

Interest rates are higher than they’ve been for a while, but still not out of control. We have not seen rates this high since before the Global Financial Crisis (GFC). However, I suspect most readers have seen rates much higher than this in the decades gone by. Good for savers, bad for borrowers. But are they good for savers? And how bad are these rates for borrowers? at is a conversation for another time, but there is no mistaking the fact that interest rates are costing borrowers as the months go on. Savers on the other hand are being paid interest for the rst time in over a decade.

You don’t have to venture far from home to realise that in ation is out of control. ere is no doubt about it. With in ation now over double the current interest rate, the ‘interest’ savers are being paid sure doesn’t go far when your purchasing power diminishes by the day.

is is why it is vitally important that you consult with an Adviser well before you retire. Don’t leave it to the last minute to make plans for what is potentially a large portion of your life. You will need to know what nancial goals are feasible for you and your family in the lead up to your retirement. In our rapidly changing world, you need the stability of good nancial advice. at advice should be given by a quali ed and well-educated Financial Adviser. Kathryn Willowhite, our Principal Financial Adviser, has worked in Financial Services on the Tweed for 23 years. Kath is an experienced nancial professional who puts her clients interests rst by giving a clear strategy towards nancial security over the long term. If you need help, or for a professional second opinion, please call our o ce for a consultation. We exist solely to give support on your nancial journey by funding what matters to you.

TO the Terranora Lakes and Garbett family on the passing of a man described as “one of the club’s founding fathers and true Lakes legend”, Birt Garbett.

Volunteer Alister Millar at work

Volunteer Alister Millar is a top handyman

Terranora Lakes legend Birt Garbett (left) with life member Brian Kenny during one of many good times

Sisters sparkle with success

By Madeleine Murray

THERE AREN’T a lot of jobs in rural areas like Uki, so three sisters, including identical twins, created their own eight years ago.

Glo Tatts, which designs and makes elegant glow-in-the-dark, metallic temporary tattoos, has been featured in Vogue and on the ABC.

The shimmering skin designs have adorned stars such as Delta Goodrem who wore them on The Voice, Bella Thorne who wore them to a movie premiere, Elsa Pataky, and Julia Stone.

The Magree sisters, born in Murwillumbah, come from a colourful family of nine children.

They travelled, camped, fended for themselves at times, and were taken to music festivals and vibrant Krishna celebrations by their parents.

“We spent a lot of our childhood getting dressed up for festivals using henna and gold tattoos,” Saci Magree told The Weekly.

“Later, my big sister Kat and I wanted to do something fun as a business together.

“We loved music festivals and the film Avatar, so we started thinking up an idea around luminous skin jewellery.

“Combining gold tattoos with glow in the dark had never been done before.

“I got obsessed with the idea and eventually found a manufacturer in Hong Kong who was willing to test the idea with me so I quickly designed three tattoo sheets and three weeks later got the samples, which were incredible.

“I had to order thousands to persuade the manufacturer to help me with the idea.”

You put a Glo Tatt somewhere on your

body, peel the backing off, and you instantly have beautiful, delicate skin jewellery, that glows in the dark and lasts up to two weeks.

Saci and Kat first took the Glo Tatts to Splendour in the Grass and gave them out for free.

The subtle chic wearable art was an instant hit. Australian actress Nat Kelley wore them to Burning Man Festival in Arizona.

“Some of her famous friends saw them,” Saci said.

“I got a call from Free People/Urban Outfitters in the US who wanted to stock 10,000 at a time, so pretty much overnight I had to quit my job and go full-time in the business.”

Saci hand draws each design, inspired by elaborate Indian body art, traditional jewellery, global cultural tattoo markings, and her twin sister Rada, a talented illus -

trative artist.

After long two years of shutting down during COVID, the business is finally starting to sparkle again with new designs out this year.

Seniors active grant

SENIORS AGED 60 and over in the Northern Rivers will soon have more options to help stay fit, with applications now open for the ‘Active Ageing’ grants program.

Active Ageing grants are now available to support exercise providers and fitness leaders to provide low-cost exercise programs for people over the age of 60 in the Northern Rivers.

Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) is providing eight grants of $500 to support existing group exercise programs and five grants of $800 to help start new group exercise programs.

NNSWLHD Acting Manager Health Promotion Graeme Williams said preventive healthcare plays a vital role in the health system.

“Having access to affordable exercise programs is one of the key things we can do to support people in the Northern Rivers region to stay active and well as they age,” Mr Williams said.

“Exercise groups are a great way for older people to come together to build their strength, balance and endurance and to connect with others socially.”

The exercise programs must be delivered in the NNSWLHD footprint.

Applications close January 27, 2023. To apply, or for more information, visit: healthupnorth.info/activeageinggrant

GLO TATS: Saci and Rada wearing Glo Tatts

Saci and Kat launched Glo Tatts at Splendour in the Grass festival

GET ACTIVE: Active Ageing Grants are now available

Discover the delightful flavours of Uki

By Madeleine Murray

EACH FOOD option in Uki is unique, but the providers have a few things in common.

They all love the village and using local produce to create outstanding local dishes. Plus, they all survived the 2022 flood and COVID-19 pandemic.

To find out more about our beautiful little village’s cuisine, I took a tour around Uki’s food scene and sampled the flavours.

Uki Pies (Australia’s best)

“The pastry is flaky, beautiful and buttery,” he said.

“The ingredients are generous. They are the best pies anywhere. I head straight here when I visit Uki.”

Michelle grew up on Cadell Road at Mebbin Forest and went to school in Nimbin.

“I’ve been in the valley all my life. I started at 16 in the Rainbow Cafe in Nimbin, trained as a sous-chef in Jems, and went down to Byron for a few years,” she tells me.

“I use a lot of local produce, I’m from a restaurant background, so it’s nice to put restaurant quality in the pastry.”

The colourful shop interior is now double its original size.

“We had water through in the flood, so I thought it’s a good time to renovate it and give it a new lease on life,” Michelle said.

Pure Love (simply delicious)

When Az Williams bought the Uki takeaway in July 2020, she brought her passion for fresh food to the popular business.

Pure Love has everything from takehome meals to pizzas, a range of burgers, seafood, wraps, rolls, Turkishes and a selection of cakes.

“We make everything here,” Az told The Weekly.

“We have lots of local produce. Our lettuce is picked 500 metres down the road every morning.

“I try and source as much as possible locally. It’s all fresh and handmade. No freezer to the fryer.”

The most popular items are the wraps and rolls. A juice bar is being built at the moment and will serve juices, smoothies, frappés, and “good old-fashioned milkshakes”.

“I love Uki,” Az said. “That’s why this is working. Because I love this village, and I love feeding good food to these beautiful people.”

Village & Co (made with love)

At Village & Co cafe, you can sit in the cosy indoor area, or outside at tables with a view of Wollumbin/ Mt Warning.

The food ranges from all-day breakfast, to lunch burgers, toasties, savouries, frittata, muffins and more.

breakfast, and burger with the works.

“I love doing business here,” she said. “I love this ambience, I love being here.”

Mt Warning Hotel (a Uki icon)

The popular Mt Warning Hotel, owned by Brett and Kim Watson, is a family-run business that’s a must visit in the Tweed Valley.

The hotel offers a large open bar and dining room, has a wide veran-

dah with views of the mountain, and is extremely popular with families, locals and passing visitors.

“We serve bistro food, ranging from parmies to grilled or battered fish,” Brett told The Weekly.

“The meat section comes from our local butcher in Bray Park. We try to look after locals when we can.”

The restaurant is open from 12pm to 2.30pm, and 6pm to 8.30pm.

“It’s a great thing for locals and families,” Brett said.

“Our most popular dish is probably the grilled barra with salad and chips, or veggie and mash. People like the slow-cooked lamb shanks, and you can get pizzas all day.”

The Watson family has been back running the hotel since 2017.

Water was waist-high in the bar during last year’s flood, but they cleaned up and opened again.

“I love doing business in Uki,” Brett said.

“It’s a great community, with good people. That makes it easy to come to work!”

Michelle Neville bought Uki Pies two years ago, and loves doing business in the village.

“It’s awesome,” she told The Weekly. “It’s absolutely lovely.”

Denis Sunjic from Sydney was eating the chunky steak pie at an outdoor table and offered some input.

Free solar - savings up to $600 on electricity bills

Owner Jessica Tremlett grew up in Eungella, worked in hospitality for eight years and bought the business 18 months ago.

“Everything is made in the kitchen with fresh produce and fresh food,” Jessica told The Weekly.

“The most popular choices are probably the eggs benedict, the vegan

The NSW Government is offering a new way to assist people on low incomes with their power bills by installing free solar systems for eligible households in place of their Low Income Household Rebate. This program aims to improve energy affordability by helping households unlock long terms savings on their electricity bills. While this means you will no longer receive the $285 annual rebate on your electricity bill, you could receive up to $600 in savings per year from your new solar system!

The offer is only available to households that live in the specified regions and meet the eligibility criteria. When participating in this program households will receive a free, fully installed 3kW solar system in place of their Low Income Household Rebate.

SAE Group are the approved provider, designing and installing solar systems to eligible homes in your region.

To be eligible you must:

- Currently be receiving the Low Income Household Rebate

- Agree not to receive the rebate for ten years

- Own your own home

- Not already have a solar PV system

- Hold a valid Pensioner Concession Card or a Department of Veteran Affairs Gold Card

- If you are not the registered homeowner, but your spouse is, you may be considered eligible collectively as a household

A 3kW system is designed to generate an average of 12.6kwh per day, which will deliver electricity savings depending on each household’s energy consumption. Managing Director of SAE Group Glen Ashton comments “We know electricity bills continue to place a lot of pressure on households, and we are pleased to be working with the NSW Government to help ease the pressure on low income households.”

SAE Group are an Australian owned and operated organisation with over ten years’ experience in the solar industry. SAE Group are a Clean Energy Council Approved Retailer, and hold accreditations ISO 9001, ISO 45001 for safety and quality systems. Safety is paramount to us, and it our goal to ensure we provide quality solar systems to eligible households that will deliver ongoing savings for many years to come.

Want to find out more?

Visit: https://energysaver.nsw.gov.au/solar-low-income-households to check your eligibility and apply online or visit www.saegroup.com.au or call us on 02 66 389 439. The Solar for Low Income Household Offer is supported by the NSW Government.

UKI PIES: Michelle Neville owns Uki Pies and loves the village

PURE LOVE: Az Williams of Pure Love Takeaway in Uki

VILLAGE & CO: Owner Jessica Tremlett is passionate about food

Sunjic family from Sydney enjoyed dinner at the Mt Warning Hotel

Keep Tweed birds safe while fishing

FISHING LINE discarded without thought for the resident wildlife can cause terrible suffering.

Tweed Valley Wildlife Carers’ seabird co-ordinator Mary Grant spends a good deal of her time catching injured birds and removing fishing debris.

“This problem seems to have been going on ever since fishermen first used man-made fishing line which did not disintegrate into a harmless substance,” Mary said.

“Many people, especially visitors to the Tweed Coast, often avoid being conscious of the environmental damage they leave in their wake.

“Injuries include loss of a wing or leg. A juvenile pelican was recently euthanased due to strangulation by fishing line.

“An ibis was very hungry and was unable to hunt naturally at low tide due to some blue fishing line joining both legs.

“Around the bird’s toes were tied another tight constriction of line.”

A black swan was recently released at The Anchorage, Tweed Heads.

“Originally, this swan was in pain with a hook embedded close to the bone,” Mary said.

“Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital treated the swan, removed the hook, then Australian Seabird and Turtle Rescue Centre at Ballina looked after this

bird.”

TVWC has received 68 calls in the last six months relating to fishing line entanglements. However, many injuries go unreported.

Silver gulls were most affected, with 20 birds falling victim to fishing debris.

Among animals injured were Australian white ibis, black swans, magpies, pelicans, ospreys, and even an

bly.

To help with this, eight tackle bins are installed around the Tweed Shire.

TVWC tackle bin co-ordinator Ron Potter says more bins are available to be installed on request.

He asks that fishers cut their discarded line into pieces before dumping to keep birds safer.

Anyone finding a bird entan gled by fishing debris should ers on 02 6672

ban

A COMPLETE ban on the use of balloons in all Tweed Shire Council buildings, parks and outdoor areas came into effect on January 1 this year.

Balloons, once a party staple, have been found to wreak havoc on marine life.

Whether foil, latex or labelled ‘environmentally-friendly’ materials, all balloons have the potential to cause harm to our local ecosystems.

The total balloon ban follows council’s move in September to prohibit the release of helium balloons on Council-owned land.

Council’s director of sustainable communities and environment, Stewart Brawley, said there had been widespread acceptance of Council’s initial ban on balloon releases.

“The community welcomed our initial ban on balloon releases, this is just another step forward in reducing our impact and keeping the rich and diverse ecosystems found across the Tweed free of harmful pollutants,” Mr Brawley said.

“The Tweed is a forerunner when it comes to matters on climate change and protecting our natural environment so that future generations can enjoy it. We want to thank our community for embracing initiatives like this.”

Council is encouraging the community to share their balloon alternatives. Use the tag

#ditchtheballoon on social media to highlight the ideas you’ve come up with.

It is important to note the total balloon ban does not extend to events held on privately-owned land.

For more information on the harmful effect of balloons on the environment, visit: cleanup. org.au/balloons.

with Yvonne Gardiner

HOOK, LINE AND SINKER: This intermediate egret rescued by TVWC member Mary Grant was unable to move due to discarded fishing debris entangling its wing at Chinderah. The bird was treated at Currumbin Wildlife Hospital and released.

Council's balloon ban

call McKenzie home.

and compassion our residents enjoy, you’ll want to call McKenzie home.

Discover Uni of the Third Age

By Madeleine Murray

UNIVERSITY OF the Third Age (U3A) is a great recreational and learning opportunity that is practically free.

For an annual fee of $70, you can go to courses from advanced French to public speaking or even play Mahjong. You must be over 45 and not working full-time.

Tweed Coast 3UA is slowly recovering from the double blow of COVID and a fire at the Cudgen Leagues Club, its traditional home.

But it has risen from the ashes and is holding enrolments on Thursday, January 19.

Members come from Tweed Heads to Pottsville and Murwillumbah, with classes held in Kingscliff, Tumbulgum and Murwillumbah.

U3A originated in France and has now more than 3,000 groups worldwide.

The object is lifelong learning in a friendly social atmosphere.

U3A Tweed Coast was established in 2000 by foundation president Dorothy Somerville.

Forty group leaders conduct 45 groups.

Some members lead a group, some join in one or more groups, some are

part of the administration committee and some do all of the above.

Group leaders are all volunteers who need no special qualifications or training, just a willingness to share their interest or passion with others.

U3A Tweed Coast is

As you age, your digestive system slows down which leads to weight gain over time. This is one of the main reasons fibre becomes more important in older adults. Dietary fibre can keep you full and aids in achieving a healthy weight. Additionally, it plays a role in reducing the risk of a multitude of health conditions like cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes, and some cancers.

Eating a wide variety of high-fibre foods can help your digestive health by normalising your bowel movement and maintaining your bowel health. This is especially true for people living with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a gastrointestinal condition marked by stomach cramps, diarrhea, and constipation. However, whilst fibre is known to relieve some of the problems caused by IBS, it is important to remember that fibre tolerance is not the same for everybody. Both soluble and insoluble fibre have their own benefits, but their effects vary from person to person. Hence, it is still best to see a doctor for treatment advice if you have IBS. You might also consider

HEALTHY

holding its annual Enrolment & Information Day at Seventh Day Adventist Church, Philip Street, Kingscliff on Thursday, January 19, from 10am to 2pm.

Members can join one or more of the groups available for the $70 annual fee.

Zoom classes have been introduced. The Facebook group https://tinyurl. com/2p94xezs complements the website tweedcoast.u3anet.org.au to keep members informed of changes.

GROUP ACTIVITIES

Appreciating Poetry

Australian History

Art (three groups)

Book Chat & Book Lovers

Brain Games

Card Making

Canasta & 500 (cards)

Digital Photography

Discussion Group/Current Affairs French (two levels)

German Conversation (three levels) Hatha Yoga (two classes)

Yoga Posture

Italian Conversation (level 1 and 2) Italian Conversation (intermediate) Italian (advanced)

Painting & Drawing

Public Speaking

Life Writing (three different groups) Mahjong (three groups)

Pavement Walk Rock ‘n’ Roll Scrabble

Singalong Choir Spanish

Tai Chi (four levels)

talking to a registered dietitian or nutritionist to have your overall diet assessed, and determine what changes need to be made as far as your fibre intake is concerned.

But if you’re simply looking to increase your fibre intake for the purpose of boosting your immune system and overall health, filling up on whole grains, vegetables, and fruit can help you get the amount of fibre that your body needs per day.

When it comes to adding fibre to your diet, it’s best to start low, go slow. “Too much fibre” is a real thing and can occur if you increase your fibre intake very quickly. Eating too much fibre can lead to symptoms such as bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and constipation. With that being said, here are some tips on increasing your fibre intake:

Eat whole fruits such as pears and apples instead of drinking fruit juices

Replace white rice, bread, and pasta with brown rice and whole-grain products

Snack on fresh and dried fruit, raw vegetables, and whole-grain crackers instead of pretzels and chips Have a daily serving of beans and lentils Try grinding and sprinkling chia seeds on your smoothie or oatmeal

Drink plenty of water when eating high-fibre foods Finding a meal with enough fibre can be challenging at times, but Gourmet Meals is here to help you make the switch to a high-fibre diet. We offer a huge range of high-fibre meals that are actually delicious, too! Try our ‘Beef Rissoles’ in a rich tomato sauce, served with green beans, carrots, corn, and potato bake; or our ‘Lamb Roast’ with mint gravy, mixed vegetables, pumpkin, and roasted chats potatoes. A pavlova served with mango, strawberries, kiwifruit and cream, and you are in for a sweet treat with our own version of ‘Fruit Pavlova’.

Boost your fibre intake now and start reaping its health benefits. Browse through our menu or contact us on 1300 112 112 for more information.

GERTRUDE STEIN

Southern Cross First

Guiding Tweed growth

By Yvonne Gardiner

PHASE ONE of a document that will guide the growth of Tweed Shire for the next 20 years has been completed.

The Growth Management and Housing Strategy — Issues Paper, presented to Tweed Shire Councillors at their monthly meeting on Thursday, December 15, identifies the issues facing the future of housing and employment land.

Council officers noted that these topics involved complex issues which had a direct impact on the look and feel of a village, town or city.

Mayor Chris Cherry said the GMHS was council’s most important strategy.

“It’s incredibly important to get it right,” she said.

“We need to make sure that these documents are accurate.

“Population projections are incredibly important.

“We use them to determine our infrastructure planning and water supply planning.

“All the things that we need to think about as a service provider.”

Cr Cherry highlighted that the Tweed population outlook prepared by PSA Consulting (Australia) in this draft issues paper was more than double that of the population projections published by the NSW Department of Planning and Environment and NSW Department of Health.

According to the GMHS outlook, the population of Tweed Shire is anticipated to increase by 31,682 people over the next 20 years — from 97,151 residents in 2021 to 128,833 residents in 2041.

Currently over a quarter of residents are aged 65-plus.

In 2020 the Tweed welcomed its highest number of new residents.

“As the fastest growing local government area in the northern region of New South Wales, the

careful management of well-planned housing and employment land opportunities are critical to the way that the Tweed will develop over time and how the region will ultimately look and function, decades from now,” the paper noted.

Cr Cherry also called for a key theme, “natural environment”, to be added to the planning and policy framework.

Flood mapping that is at least 1 in 500 years is also to be included in the issues paper, in addition to the current 1 in 100 year measure.

The focus of phase one of the project was to record the concerns, aspirations and preferences of the local community and key stakeholders through meetings, online comments, interviews, and a public exhibition.

Council’s Your Say Tweed website received more than 1405 visits with nearly 300 people filling in the early-stage survey.

Tweed Resident and Ratepayers Association pointed out that Tweed Shire had about 15,000 lots approved for residential and employment development, plus infill sites zoned for such development.

“Initiatives need to be explored to bring the availability of these lots to life,” the association said.

“Mechanisms need to be implemented under state planning provisions that there are sunset clauses that prohibit the lengthy and protracted release of lands.

“The government needs to urgently recognise and address the significant impacts to the housing and rental pool created by the short-term rental accommodation.”

The GMHS will provide a more contemporary land use planning framework and will supersede the Tweed Urban and Employment Land Release Strategy 2009.

A draft options paper will be developed in 2023 based on the issues paper.

Council is also preparing an affordable housing strategy.

Mayor Chris Cherry reviews the challenges of growth in the Tweed in the next 20 years. Photo by Yvonne Gardiner

Labor steps up offers

By Jonathon Howard

IT’S ONLY the first week back and the NSW Labor Party has doubled down on its attempt to take government in 2023, with an offer to abolish or discount stamp duty for first-home buyers.

NSW Labor Leader Chris Minns and NSW Shadow Treasurer Daniel Mookey this week jointly announced that Labor will abolish stamp duty outright for first-home buyers buying a home worth up to $800,000, while offering a concessional rate to first-home buyers purchasing a property up to $1 million.

Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said she welcomed NSW Labor leader Chris Minns’ plan to scrap stamp duty for first-home buyers as “taking real action to make housing more affordable for singles, couples and families”.

“This fresh initiative, combined with other measures to ensure more fairness for renters, is good public policy and even better regional and rural public policy,” Ms Saffin said.

“How long have we waited for this? It is fantastic.

“Given the target is $800,000 or below, that would cover people in the Lismore Electorate and the regions who need to have stamp duty waived to allow them to get into their first home.

“Under our plan, an estimated 46,500 future homeowners in NSW will be paying no stamp duty or be able to claim a heavy discount over the first three years of a Minns Labor Government.

“We will provide this much-needed stamp duty relief by scrapping Premier Dominic Perrottet’s dreadful land tax on the family home.”

The news comes as Labor continues to stall on revealing a candidate for Tweed, with incumbent Ms Saffin running for the seat of Lismore.

Independent modelling by the Parliamentary Budget Office shows that within the first three years of Labor’s changes, 27,700 first-home

buyers would have paid no stamp duty whatsoever. An additional 18,800 first-home buyers would have paid a discounted rate.

This means that an estimated 95 per cent of all first-home buyers in New South Wales will pay no tax or a reduced rate when they buy their first home.

With more housing policies still to be released, Labor has already committed to a range of areas in the housing sector including protecting tenants from unfair evictions by requiring them to be given a lawful reason for terminating their lease; banning the practice of secret rent bidding, which pits tenants against each other in bidding wars; implementing a Portable Bond Scheme to allow tenants to apply their current bond to their next lease; making it easier for renters to have pets in their homes; and hosting a renters’ roundtable to hear from stakeholders and community groups.

Consider shingles vaccine

By Madeleine Murray

SHINGLES IS the silent infection that can creep up on older people and leave them in agony for several weeks.

Shingles is insanely, relentlessly painful, yet almost entirely preventable with a vaccine.

According to the Mayo Clinic, “shingles is a viral infection that causes a painful rash.

“Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus — the same virus that causes chickenpox.

“After you’ve had chickenpox, the virus stays in your body for the rest of your life. Years later, the virus may reactivate as shingles.”

Before routine vaccination began in November 2005, chickenpox was a very common illness. Anyone who had chickenpox can get shingles.

Shingles can occur anywhere on your body, but it typically looks like a single stripe of blisters that wraps around one side of the torso.

“I got my vaccine when I turned 50, because I’d seen too many people with really bad shingles,” a local doctor told The Weekly.

“The nerve pain is terrible. One patient who got it in his eye nearly went blind.”

A local woman who prefers anonymity has just

recovered from five weeks of intense, almost unbearable pain.

“The first sign was a sore back,” she told The Weekly.

“It took four days for the rash to emerge, which meant shingles.

“It was so painful, a constant hot burning and nerve pain. In my case, the virus attacked the nerves coming out of the spine and followed the pathways.

“The neuropathic drugs only gave temporary relief.”

The woman simply had to endure the pain for five weeks.

“I felt as if I couldn’t focus on anything else except the pain.

“I wondered if it would it ever end. I was a bit tearful, it went on for a long time.”

The shingles vaccination is free under the National Immunisation Program for immunocompetent adults aged 70 years and over.

Catch-up vaccination is also available for adults aged 71 to 79 years until October 31, 2023. If you are over 60, consult your local GP about a vaccine if concerned.

NSW Labor leader Chris Minns has announced a policy that will see the majority of first-home buyers either paying no stamp duty or at a reduced rate

Shingles can leave you in agony but is preventable

By Brad Nardi

FROM THE Tweed Tourism Co team, we hope you had a wonderful festive season.

It was a busy end to the year for the team with social media competitions counting down the ‘12 days of Tweedmas’, giving away daily prizes and cross promoting an online Tweed Gift Guide whilst supporting locally sourced and sustainable products and experiences.

We also launched a special hinterland campaign, Take the Slow Road, encouraging south-east Queensland and the broader Northern Rivers to take a day drive out to the valley, in particular supporting Tyalgum, Chillingham and Crystal Creek.

With the ongoing closure of Tyalgum Road, this is an area continuing to feel the effects of last year’s flooding, but head there via Chillingham and the surrounding local roads are in fantastic order – you’ll have a great day out!

Looking ahead in 2023, there really is so much to be excited about for tourism in the Tweed.

First up, it’s certainly looking to be a great year for the bikers! Not only will the official opening date for the Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail be announced soon, but construction has also begun on the new Mountain Biking Park in Uki, aiming for a mid-2023 launch.

Each of these projects are set to be game changers for the Tweed valley, attracting eco-minded visitors out on the trails to explore our country villages, creating opportunities for new tourism products and marketing messages.

Another great aspect of these trails is that they will encourage people to the region who may not have previously visited, generating positive word of mouth,

Exciting year ahead for local tourism

building visitor numbers and dispersing travel dollars more deeply across our towns and businesses.

At the same time, we are looking forward to the gradual return of international travel into Australia starting to have positive impacts on tourism for the Tweed in 2023.

Evidence of this is the increasing return of international services, such as the announcement late last year that AirAsia X will recommence services between Kuala Lumpur and the Gold Coast in February, an injection of almost 59,000 inbound seats each year from Malaysia.

Our region’s strengths in cuisine, nature and art will be appealing, along with the

proximity between coastal and country experiences.

Final shout-outs for great happenings in January that are set to boost tourism — the Tweed Wedding Trail is on again this Sunday, January 15, for its sixth consecutive year, showcasing nine local venues and over 100 wedding suppliers, and later this month the revamped Tyalgum Hotel will be officially launched, adding to the already big appeal of this small valley town.

With so much to look forward to in 2023 we are excited to be working hand-in-hand with the Tweed’s amazing local operators to elevate the benefits of tourism for the region.

Millions for road repairs

THE NSW Government has fast-tracked the opening of applications for the $500 million Regional and Local Roads Repair Program.

Member for Tweed Geoff Provest said Tweed Shire Council can now apply earlier for their slice of $500 million in NSW Government funding for urgent road repairs.

“Our priority is to make sure NSW roads are in the best condition possible so tradies and truckies can work and families can make their way home from holidays safely,” Mr Provest said.

“Tweed Shire Council are eligible for a one-off payment to help them fix roads that have been damaged by successive severe weather events throughout 2022.

“Applications are now open, and the money will start to drop into council bank accounts within weeks to ensure repairs can get underway as soon as possible.

“We’ve fast-tracked this cash injection and made the process simple so councils can focus on important road repairs that will keep communities connected and safe.”

Councils need to make an application to Transport for NSW, who will allocate the funds based on total kilometres of roads managed in each local government area.

This new money is on top of existing funding and assistance to councils including the Regional Roads Block Grant program and NSW Disaster Assistance Arrangements.

NOW OPEN 7 DAYS

TOURISM: Tweed Tourism has launched an all-new map and it's well worth a look

More road repair funds are being made available

Sixty years of love and still going

By Jonathon Howard

WELL-KNOWN LOCAL couple

Del and Ross Johnson are proof that love can last a lifetime, as the couple celebrated 60 years of happy marriage on Thursday, January 5.

Del and Ross met at a Church of England (Anglican) Youth Revue at All Saints Parish Hall in Murwillumbah in late 1958.

They started dating in 1959 and were married at All Saints Anglican Church in Murwillumbah in 1963.

“Del is the love of my life,” Ross said.

“She’s caring and always puts family first. Over the years, if we’ve ever had any worries, she’s able to rise and help with the children.

“When she was on the front desk at the Murwillumbah Hospital, she would always receive high praise for her approach to people and communication skills.”

Del said she loves Ross for his faithfulness and caring attitude.

“Ross is also the love of my life and

the backbone of the family,” Del said.

“He’s unselfish and always gives what he can.

“He also wants the best for his family, and these are some of the qualities I love the most.”

Del is the eldest daughter of the late Mabel (née Edmed) and late George Hanna of Ewing Street, Murwillumbah.

Ross is the only son of the late Edna (née Adams) and late Fred Johnson of “Johnsons’ Creek” at Condong.

Sadly, only two of their five wedding attendants survive: Del’s sister Jeanette Watson of Hastings Point and Ross’s cousin, Robert Adams of Sydney.

The celebrant was a friend of both families and Rector of the Parish of Murwillumbah, the Reverend Cleve Hancock.

Del’s father’s building company had completed the church in time for its opening on All Saints Day, November 1, 1960.

“We are still involved with the Anglican Parish of Murwillumbah where we have been organist for 64 years and at Cuthbert’s Parish Tweed Heads for the past fifteen years,” Ross told The Weekly.

The couple made their home in Tweed Street, Murwillumbah, where they lived until building a new home in Cudgen in 1993.

They now live in retirement at the Noble Lakeside Complex in Kingscliff.

Their three children, Mark, David and Lisa, have provided them with eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

With one family resident on the Tweed, the Johnsons are now a seventh generation Tweed family.

After completing TAFE in Murwillumbah, Del worked in the offices of the Ford Dealership and Hanna and Edmed prior to having a family.

With the children all at school, Del became a much-respected employee at Murwillumbah Hospital initially on medical records and later administration and reception work for 26 years.

In recognition of her work she was awarded ‘employee of the month’ in November 1989 as part of a project organised by the Murwillumbah Business Corporation.

As a young girl Del enjoyed dancing. She was the Rotary Queen Candidate in the 1959 Banana Festival and was inaugural Treasurer of Murwillumbah Day VIEW Club. A membership of VIEW was held for 30-plus years.

Del currently enjoys involvement with her water aerobics group and her “walk and chat” group at Noble Lakeside.

Ross has only had a two-year absence from the Tweed, at Armidale Teachers’ College in 1956-57, as on completion of National Service Training at Wacol, Queensland, in April 1958, he was appointed to Tweed Heads Primary School.

Over 50-plus years with the Department of Education, he also served at Broken Head, Tyalgum and Murwillumbah East Public Schools before retiring as Principal of Crabbes Creek School.

As a former member of Greenmount Surf Club, an instructor with the Royal Life Saving Society and

coordinator of Zone Swimming Carnivals, he was awarded Life Membership of the Tweed Zone Public Schools’ Sport Association. He is also a Past President of Murwillumbah Jaycees and a Zone Secretary.

With specific interests in music and local history, he is an Honorary Member of the Murwillumbah Festival of Performing Arts, provides voluntary music therapy for the dementia clients of Lifebridge Kingscliff and is voluntary organiser and accompanist for a monthly concert at Noble Lakeside.

With his interest in local history, he served as president for five years of the Tweed Heads Historical Society and assists with information and photography at Tweed Regional Museum.

Both Del and Ross enjoy time with their family and before old age set in, they enjoyed many holidays in Australia and eight trips overseas.

In closing, Ross and Del provided some valuable insights into what is

the secret to long and happy marriage?

“Tolerance and the understanding of each other,” Ross said.

“Perseverance and patience are what I believe are the key to a successful marriage,” Del said.

“Never walk away after an argument.”

HAPPY COUPLE: Del and Ross on their big day

Celebrating 60 years together

Del Hanna rotary queen candidateBanana Festival 1959

Hi-fi's band formed for the youth revue in December 1958 - Ross Johnson is on the piano

returns

FALLS FESTIVAL returned with roaring success to the North Byron Parklands at Yelgun in the Tweed Shire from December 31 to January 2 for its eighth iteration.

The festival wrapped up a great success with organisers praising the relaxed, friendly crowd and thanking the team of volunteers, service personnel, staff and artists.

The event attracted close to 20,000 patrons with over 10,000 camping onsite.

“There were no delays getting campers onto the site on December 30 nor during exit on 3 January, with all campers exiting the site by 10.30am and the grounds left in impeccable condition thanks to the campers and workers,” Falls Festival director Brandon Saul said.

Overall, Falls Byron enjoyed spectacular weather with some rain on the 30th having no serious impact on the site or festival operations.

Falls Byron highlight acts included Lil Nas X who rang in the New Year with a spectacular show with eight dancers and multiple costume changes.

“A huge amount of effort went into creating this festival and we would like to thank all the artists, staff, service per-

sonnel, stall holders and the large contingent of volunteers. “The police, security and Red Frogs volunteers did an excellent job of keeping our patrons safe. The festival patrons should be congratulated for making the eighth Falls Byron such a great experience, and the local community for being such a gracious host.”

Big win for Tyalgum Theatre Company

By Jonathon Howard

TYALGUM THEATRE Company Shepherd’s Purse had a major win last month.

Their production of ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ performed at Flutterbies Cottage Cafe in July, was the 2022 Recipient of the Platinum Palm Award at the Gold Palm Theatre Awards on the Gold Coast.

The Gold Palm Theatre Awards recognise excellence in live community theatre throughout the Gold Coast and Northern NSW, with participants as far reaching as Brisbane in the north and Newrybar and Ballina in the south.

The ceremony was held at Dracula’s Cabaret restaurant at Broadbeach on Monday, December 5.

The 2022 production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream was nominated for five Awards including Best Costumes, Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress.

The Platinum Palm Award is a non-competitive award given every year for Outstanding Service to the Theatrical Community, it was the final award given on the night and is their highest honor.

Shepherd’s Purse was awarded this for the presentation of the entire event, involving so many people within the local community, demonstrating the real meaning behind community theatre.

“As a first-time participant in these awards we were totally blown away to receive the Platinum Palm,” Shepherd’s Purse director Solar Chapel said.

“This was all very new for us, and we did not know what to expect.

“The event was also a great opportunity for us to meet many more amazing theatre practitioners throughout the region, and to introduce them to some of the treasures in our local area.”

On receiving the award, Mr Chapel was also given the opportunity to announce that the company will be doing a major production in 2023, following a special arrangement with Disney Theatrical, this July they will present the Australian community theatre premiere of ‘Shakespeare In Love’, based on the Oscar-winning screenplay by Marc Norman and Tom Stoppard, adapted for the stage by Lee Hall.

“This is such an exciting play to bring to our local audiences for the first time, and an Australian first for community theatre, we can’t wait for everyone to see it as part of our July Midwinter Shakespeare season,” Mr Chapel said.

“Auditions for Shakespeare in Love will be in February.

“We are seeking a dynamic team of actors, as well as keen participants backstage and stage management.”

Application details will be announced next week.

Old-time music group

By Madeleine Murray

MURWILLUMBAH’S OLD-TIME music group goes by the delightful name of Fiddle Faddle.

Old-time music refers to the traditional fiddle music of the American south and mid-west.

This acoustic music is aurally passed down through the ages, and consists of jigs, reels, hornpipes, rags and breakdowns.

Most of the tunes have no known composer and have changed over time through the interpretation of the musicians.

The community group evolved out of a weekly gathering of musicians at Sphinx Rock Café several years ago to play this old-time music, under the guidance of Gareth Bjaaland.

It currently consists of around 20 professional and amateur players who come together for two hours every Thursday morning at Tweed Creative Studios, Buchanan Street, Murwillumbah, to follow the tradition of playing and enjoying this music.

Anyone at any age, who wishes to share the experience, is welcome to join. Fiddle Faddle plays a wide variety of tunes regularly.

“This is a traditional style of music that gets your toes tapping and your spirit flying,” coordinator Phil Eizenberg told The Weekly.

“It’s lively and requires skill on your instrument, which will improve by further playing.

“By participating in this group, you exercise your brain, gain self-confidence, and improve your mental health.

“It’s a great hobby with a ton of fun – just ask anyone who takes part in the sessions!”

Focus is on ear training rather than using music because the written music does not accurately represent the ‘feel’ of old time tunes. The group is environmentally friendly as it is all acoustic. If the power goes out they keep playing.

Fiddle Faddle plays fiddle (of course) and banjo, ukulele, guitar, bass and percussion and dulcimer.

When the occasion arises, the group performs in public, and sometimes gets paid. Any proceeds go to Wedgetail Retreat.

For more info, contact Phil Eizenberg 0418 436 172, or Tweed Creative Studios (02) 6672 5556.

CONGRATULATIONS! Tyalgum Theatre Company was awarded the Gold Palm Award

FIDDLE FUN: Fiddle Faddle with Phil Eizenberg

The year is 2023 – which still sounds so very futuristic to me! – and how has it been treating you so far? Have you managed to keep your New Year’s resolutions? Statistically speaking, if you’ve made it this far, you’re in pretty good shape, as most fail within a week, and the majority of the rest within the next fortnight. I’ve been reflecting on how vital it is for society to have that mandatory stopping point, a time to sit back and review the year passed; when it’s ok to not answer emails, declare you won’t be back til such and such a date, and that everything will have to wait. The festive season is our busiest time in cinema land (big thanks Helen & Josh!!), and, as these last two weeks of school holidays are chock-a-block with fantastic films for young and old, we’ll be open 7 days! Avatar: The Way of Water, has broken records again, acing its predecessor as top-grossing movie of all time, and now makes its final splash across our screen. If you haven’t seen it yet, get a group together

and book The Regent for a private session in February. There’s no room for an encore screening in our new schedule, as there are so many stellar movies coming, many with similar epic running times, as Oscar season approaches with contenders we haven’t already screened, being released. These new films are worth the wait, so thank you for your patience! As well, February kicks off with two amazing live events in a row, from rock legends to theatre, so, get your calendar out and start booking tickets now, as this year is about to ramp up! Whilst most people were enjoying a jolly rest in December and January, I’m looking forward to having my Xmas holiday in February. My resolution, which I am continuing to keep, is for more connection this year, and whether that be personally, professionally, or through my curation of activities at The Regent, I am aiming to create closer connections within our community… seems there’s something in the air.

Special play in February

By The Regent Spotlight

FEBRUARY FAST approaches, and yet the year has just begun, with 2023 promising to overtake 2022’s record speed.

Time flies swiftly by as weeks march steadily towards March!

Yet, what would you do if you were told you only had 3 months to live…that you may only reach May, if you’re lucky…?

This question is explored in “The Very Last List of Vivian Walker”, a one-woman play, starring Madeleine West, live on stage at The Regent, on Friday, February 3.

Adapted from the highly commended, 2020 Banjo Prize shortlisted debut novel by Megan Albany, it’s a story of a woman in her mid-40s suddenly confronted with terminal cancer, throwing a major spanner in her list of things to do!

As a mother of six in real life, Madeleine West surely resonates with this role, knowing all too well the endless lists of thankless jobs a mother selflessly prioritises, even as her final days draw darkly nigh.

Deftly displaying the myriad emotions inevitable in such a situation, with frank honesty and rawness, Madeleine holds the stage solo,

as, not only the lead, but all other characters as well, switching swiftly and deftly between roles. Ms West is not performing entirely alone, with a live score played by Megan Albany (yes, the same afore-mentioned multi-talented author) and Marc Mittag. Hailed as both “Hilarious”, and “Poignant”, this unique theatrical production will take you on a rollercoaster with a loop-de-loop around your heart, discovering the magic in the mundane. Book ahead to secure your seat.

Trust 2023 is treating you terrifically so far! Our schedule has been adjusted to accommodate renovations downstairs, so from Monday 16th January, we will be open 7 days a week, starting with the first movie at 2pm on weekdays, and 10am Saturday and Sunday, until the end of the month when school holidays wrap up, with something for everyone in our marvellous movie mix!

NEW FILMS THIS WEEK: LYLE, LYLE, CROCODILE + MARCEL THE SHELL WITH SHOES ON + EMILY + TRIANGLE OF SADNESS

FRIDAY THE 13TH offers 6 films for your viewing pleasure, beginning with the FINAL screening of the cinematic masterpiece, French documentary, THE VELVET QUEEN, and culminating in your FINAL chance to see THE MENU, this time served up as a double-bill with TRIANGLE OF SADNESS, both hilariously dark comedies exposing the fragility of the elite world, as luxurious plans go awry. Match these flavoursome films with your favourite organic wine from our bar!

FINAL AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER is on Wednesday 18th.

Saturday’s Sunset Soirée welcomes back ELENA B. WILLIAMS & RACHEL HEATON for some feel-good, freestyle songs. MOHINI COX is back to rock our socks off for the next Soirée, on the 21st January.

NEXT WEEK: BLUEBACK + A MAN CALLED OTTO + WHITNEY HOUSTON: I WANNA DANCE WITH SOMEBODY BOOK AHEAD: THE VERY LAST LIST OF VIVIEN WALKER, live on stage, starring Madeleine West (3/2) KUEPPER WHITE (2/2) + THE VAGINA CONVERSATIONS (16/2)

Puss in Boots: The Last Wish 12:40PM Emily 2:45PM

Marcel the Shell with Shoes On 5:20PM Triangle of Sadness 7:15PM

The Amazing Maurice 12:35PM Emily 2:35PM

Marcel the Shell with Shoes On 5:10PM

A Man Called Otto 7:05PM

New Mist Gallery exhibition

By Madeleine Murray

THE STYLISH Mist Gallery in Cabarita has a new summer group show that’s well worth a look.

Owner Helen Otway has curated a group exhibition that includes around 60 new works.

“The show celebrates summer, local and regional artists with a good focus on the Tweed region,” Helen told The Weekly.

The works are by many of the regular gallery

artists, and includes Mist’s newest artist Jason King.

The dramatic landscapes, botanical paintings, ceramics, and semi-abstracts are all striking, interesting works, at reasonable prices.

Helen clearly has a good eye, and a love of art.

Place in the Sun opened on December 3, and runs until the end of January.

All works may be collected upon purchase. No need to wait visit: mist-gallery.com.au/ place_in_the_sun_mist_gallery.html#/

The Velvet Queen FINAL 10:00AM

Marcel the Shell with Shoes On 11:55AM

Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile 1:50PM

Puss in Boots: The Last Wish 4:00PM The Menu FINAL 6:05PM Triangle of Sadness 8:15PM

FRI 13 JANUARY SAT 14 JANUARY

Emily 10:00AM

Avatar: The Way of Water 12:35PM Marcel the Shell with Shoes On 4:10PM Sunset Soirée (LIVE MUSIC)

ELENA B WILLIAMS with RACHEL HEATON 6-8PM

Puss in Boots: The Last Wish 6:05PM Triangle of Sadness 8:10PM

Marcel the Shell with Shoes On 2:00PM Blueback 3:55PM

A Man Called Otto 6:05PM Emily 8:30PM

The Amazing Maurice 10:00AM Blueback 12:00PM

Triangle of Sadness 2:05PM

Puss in Boots: The Last Wish 4:55PM Sunset Soirée (LIVE MUSIC)

MOHINI COX 6-8PM

Marcel the Shell with Shoes On 7:00PM

Marcel the Shell with Shoes On 10:00AM Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile 11:55AM

Puss in Boots: The Last Wish 2:05PM Triangle of Sadness 4:10PM Emily 7:00PM

SUN 15 JANUARY MON 16 JANUARY

Marcel the Shell with Shoes On 2:00PM Emily 3:55PM Triangle of Sadness 6:30PM

TUES 17 JANUARY

Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile 2:00PM

Marcel the Shell with Shoes On 4:10PM

Puss in Boots: The Last Wish 6:05PM Emily 8:10PM

WED 18 JANUARY

Marcel the Shell with Shoes On 2:00PM

Avatar: The Way of Water FINAL 3:55PM Emily 7:30PM

A Man Called Otto 8:55PM Emily 10:00AM

Marcel the Shell with Shoes On 12:35PM Blueback 2:30PM

A Man Called Otto 4:40PM

I Wanna Dance with Somebody 7:05PM

Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile 2:00PM

The Amazing Maurice 4:10PM

Marcel the Shell with Shoes On 6:10PM

Triangle of Sadness 8:05PM

Marcel the Shell with Shoes On 2:00PM

Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile 3:55PM

Puss in Boots: The Last Wish 6:05PM

I Wanna Dance with Somebody 8:10PM

Blueback 2:00PM

Marcel the Shell with Shoes On 4:05PM

A Man Called Otto 6:00PM

I Wanna Dance with Somebody 8:25PM

Landscapes and botanical paintings at Mist Gallery are amazing!

The Very Last List of Vivian Walker will be performed live at The Regent next month

Most distant (8)

Sparkly discs on clothes (7)

Is eager to do (7)

Father Christmas (5)

Illuminated sign (4)

Borders (5)

Champion (3)

Favourite (3)

Beguile (5)

Suggesting one has nobler standards than is the case (12) 41 Part of the Hebrew bible (12) 44 Talks (5) 46 Liquid oxygen (3) 48 Young carnivorous mammal (3) 49 Garment for the

upper body (5) 50 Duty list (4) 51 Calendar month (5) 52 Pilot (7) 53 Meal course (7) 55 Word of approval (3) 56 During (7) 60 Synthetic drugs (12) 63 Women’s name (6) 65 Outcast (6) 67 Maintain in its existing state (8) 69 Ability to read and write (8) 71 Flourish (6) 72 Reluctances (11) 73 Consecrates (7) 74 Those who derive pleasure from others’ pain (7) 75 Fraternal (9)

20 Pictures (7) 21 Grow old (3)

23

24

25

26

28

31

38

39

57

58

Band that sings Let It Be, The –

61

62

64

66 Pretend (5) 68 Banish

70

Interested?

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Owner/upholster Phil Cox and his team members Danielle Loxton, social media/ interiors, and Lisa Young, sales and inhome stylist, work together to create their customer’s visions.

With more than 40-years’ experience in upholstery, Phil focuses on repairing and recovering furniture from daybeds, statement chairs, dining chairs, ottomans, cushions, window seats, caravan cushions and custom upholstery.

“We have a range of fabrics in store to choose from or we can source what you are looking for from our Australian fabric houses or overseas,” he said.

“We believe quality furniture has a far

greater life span than cheap imports.”

Phil said investing in a quality piece of furniture will serve you better including family heirlooms.

“They don’t make furniture like they used to,” he said.

“Lisa is our home stylist and is in store, or she can visit clients to help create their visions with more than 20 years’ experience

in the fashion and interior styling industries.”

Seaside Interiors & Upholstery offer a free pick-up and delivery service from within the Gold Coast and Tweed Coast areas.

Visit the friendly team at 2/84 Hastings Road, Cabarita, call 0435 116 897 for a free quote or visit the website: www. Seasideinteriors.com.au to make an appointment.

CABARITA BUSINESS Seaside Interiors

Social Group

To Let

Inspired hearts

her smile Netta Grace Curnow (nee Hewitson)

6 Sept 1926 – 24 Dec 2022

96 years old

Late of Murwillumbah, loved by all family members and friends. Many celebrated her life at a Memorial Service on Sat 7 Jan 2023 at the Murwillumbah Uniting Church.

Loved wife of John (dec’d), sister of Ron (dec’d), Claire, (dec’d), John (dec’d), Thelma, Dorothy, mother and mother-in-law of Libby (dec’d) and John, Jenny and Glen, Barbara and Don, and adored grandmother of Lara, Christy, Matthew, Sally, Jake and Rachel, greatgrandmother of Lolo, Matai and Sadie Netta.

NILON, KENNETH LESLIE

Passed away on Monday 2nd January 2023, in his 60th year. Dearly loved Son, Brother, Uncle and Friend.

‘Of all the possessions a friend is the most precious’. A private cremation to be held. Miami (07)

In loving memory of Beverley McDonald

Late of Chillingham. Passed away peacefully on Wednesday 28th December 2022. Aged 77 Years.

Dearly loved Wife of Peter. Loved Mother of Ros, Tracey and Peter. Cherished G-G. “I love the lot of youse’’ Ph: (02) 6672 2144 Murwillumbah

forever with

Real Estate

FROM COAST TO COUNTRY

Tweed remains hot property in 2023

By Madeleine Murray

THE TWEED Shire is a spectacular area of mountains, rivers, rainforest, and beaches, as well as charming villages and vibrant towns.

Plus, don’t forget it’s close to the Gold Coast Domestic and International Airport.

All these factors mean that real estate is highly valuable.

Prices rose significantly in the last couple of years when people around the country panicked about COVID-19 lockdowns and wanted to escape to the country. Many people discovered they could work from home, so there was a rush to snap up properties in regional Australia and Tweed was firmly in their sights.

Now the market and prices are cooling somewhat which means this could be your chance to find your dream home.

There are more properties for sale, the market is more competitive and there are some bargains to be had.

The Weekly Real Estate spoke

to three local real estate agents to get their insights and any hot property tips for the start of 2023.

“This South Murwillumbah

property is a little waterfront gem,” David Stringer, principal of DJ Stringer Property Services, told The Weekly Real Estate.

The quaint two-bedroom cottage, priced between $695,000-$745,000, is located at 181 Tweed Valley Way.

The 727-square-metre property extends right down to the Tweed River and has its own pontoon.

“If you are looking for a special property to enjoy a smorgasbord

Open Homes

Saturday, January 14

Schmith Estate Agents

1/7 Advocate Place, Banora Point, 9.30-10am

65 Cominan Avenue, Banora Point, 10.30-11am

50 Hillcrest Avenue, Tweed Heads South, 11-11.30am

27 Margaret Street, Tweed Heads, 12-12.30pm

81 Henry Lawson Drive, Terranora, 12-12.30pm

First National Real Estate Murwillumbah

257 Dulguigan Road, Dulguigan 9-9:30am

2/14 Somerville Circuit, Murwillumbah 9- 9:30am

95 Starlight Way, Pumpenbil 9-9:30am

9 Mooball Street, Murwillumbah 9:30-10am

11 Bagoo Avenue, Murwillumbah 9:45-10:15am

12 Riverbend Way, Murwillumbah 10-10:30am

82 River Street, Sth Murwillumbah 10- 10:30am

261 Tunnel Road, Stokers Siding 10-10:30am

289 South Pumpenbil Road, Pumpenbil 10- 10:30am

2 / 21 McPherson Court, Murwillumbah 10:30-11am

141 Glenock Road, Dum Dum 11-11:30am

32 Meadow Place, Uki 11- 11:30am

forested land sloping down to a permanent, spring-fed creek.

“The home features wide wrap-around verandahs with rural views, air conditioning, and ceiling fans to cool down on hot summer days,” licensee in charge Scott Reading told The Weekly Real Estate.

“And on those cool winter

of water activities such as water skiing, wake boarding, paddle boarding and fishing, or simply just want to sit back and enjoy gorgeous surroundings, then this is it,” Mr Stringer said.

For people more interested in the forest, First National Real Estate has a beautiful property on 396 Pinnacle Road, Pumpenbil, at a reduced price of $890,000.

Located amid the spectacular scenery of the Mt Warning Caldera, below the Border Ranges National Park, this large, well-appointed, 3-bedroom home, occupies an elevated position on 1.98 hectares of partially

nights, you can cosy up to the slow combustion heater in the open plan living room that flows to the large kitchen with granite bench tops.”

Justin Schmith, selling principal of family-owned Schmith Estate

12 Golden Links Drive Murwillumbah 11- 11:30am 2043 Kyogle Road, Terragon 11:15 – 11:45am 109 Bonnydoon Road, Uki 11:30- 12pm 279 Smarts Road, Wardrop Valley 12-12:30pm 396 Pinnacle Road, Pumpenbil 12:15- 12:45pm 150 Midginbil Road, Midginbil 12:15- 12:45pm 27-29 Bawden Street, Tumbulgum 12:45 – 1:15pm 434 Hopkins Creek Road, Hopkins Creek 1:30- 2pm 1452 Kyogle Road, Uki 2- 2:30pm 221 - 326 Settlement Road, Numinbah 2:30-3pm

DJ Stringer

7/4 Archer St, Bilinga ‘Interest Over $795,000’ 9-9:30am QLD Time 2/18 Garrick St, Coolangatta ‘Interest Over $650,000’ 10-10:30am QLD Time 1102/14-22 Stuart St, Tweed Heads ‘Price Guide $780K-$790K’ 10:30-11:00am NSW Time 26/6-8 Thomson St, Tweed Heads ‘Price Guide $895K-$945K’ 11:30-12pm NSW Time 1603/22 Kirkwood Rd, Tweed Heads South ‘Price Guide $1.295M-$1.350M’ 12-12:30pm NSW Time 3/12 Marian St, Tweed Heads West ‘Price Guide $420K-$450K’ 12:30-1pm NSW Time

5/42 Garrick St, Coolangatta ‘Price Guide $795K-$845K’

Dreams to reality

12:30-1pm QLD Time

Agency, recommends an easy care villa in a Banora Point complex, with a great price guide of $700,000.

“This is a perfect opportunity for those downsizing or as an investment, “ Mr Schmith told The Weekly Real Estate.

“This bright, airy and private, single level duplex/villa is on the market for the first time in 24 years.”

The easy to maintain duplex has only one neighbour, beautifully established gardens and a flat walk to local shopping village Club Banora and schools.

It’s located in a quiet, soughtafter street with easy access to the M1, only a short drive to major shopping centres, hospital, airport, university and famous beaches.

The exclusive Birdwood Close complex is set on a 4800 square metre allotment and is home to only 14 residents. The nicely maintained complex offers secure living and a sound investment.

“This property must be sold, don’t miss out,” Mr Schmith said.

Tate Brownlee Real Estate

24/1a Pioneer Parade, Banora Point 9-9:30am

1 Matilda Way, Terranora 9-9:30am

486 Terranora Rd, Terranora 9-9:30am

64 Kimberley Circuit, Banora Point 10-10:30am

10 Uniacke Drive, Banora Point 10-10:30am

84 Laura Street, Banora Point 10:45-11:15am

50 Oyster Point Road, Banora Point 11-11:30am

51 M arana Street, Bilambil Heights 11-11:30am

8/1 Morley Street, Tweed Heads West 11-11:30am 36 Bione Avenue, Banora Point 12-12:30pm

4/ 8 Recreation Street, Tweed Heads 12-12:30pm

1 Tern Court, Tweed Heads West 1-1:30pm

7 Highland Drive, Terranora 1-1:30pm

736 Carool Road, Carool 2-2:30pm

MANA Real Estate

4/2 Nunyar Court, Ocean Shores, 9-9.30am 51 Garden Avenue, Nunderi, 9-9.30am 59 Riverview Street, Murwillumbah, 9.45- 10.15am 34 Chevell Place, Smiths Creek, 10.30-11am

4 Eloura Court, Ocean Shores, 10.30-11am

1/3 Halyard Court, Ocean Shores, 12-12.30pm

Waterfront property in South Murwillumbah withy DJ Stringer

This Pinnacle Road property in Pumpenbil is with First National

7 Advocate Place, Banora Point is with Schmith Estate Agency

Zara Springs

351 Zara Rd, Zara NSW

Set on 139.5 acres (56.44ha) with natural springs, mesmerising views, lakes and pondages, wild foods, a koala corridor and a manuka honey plantation, Zara Springs is a true patch of paradise.

There are two houses and a yurt on the property, offering many lifestyle opportunities. The Lake House is the epitome of romance – a captivating white cottage surrounded by a dreamy English-style garden. While the Top House is a magnificent contrast. Completely off-grid and made from hempcrete, it has an earthy Japanese vibe with wood, steel and abundant glass capturing the jaw-dropping vista of the Springbrook Mountain range.