TVW26Feb26MA001

Dane has done it again

By Jo Kennett

RECENTLY CROWNED World Junior

Champion Dane Henry has taken out the 2026 Gold Coast Open, a WSL Qualifying Series 4000 event at Burleigh Heads, on Sunday, February 22, with Kingy’s Ava Arghyros making it to the quarter finals.

Isla Huppatz who won the women’s event and Danehave already qualified for the Challenger Series thanks to their World Junior wins, but plenty of surfers are vying for a spot on the CS.

After cruising through the opening rounds, knocking Morgan Cibilic out, Dane was up against local Liam O’Brien who took an early lead but, with less than a minute to go Dane scored a 9.7 without even doing an air, to progress to the semis with Lobbie.

In his quarter final heat Indonesian Bronson Meydi sat on 2.5 until the last minute when he pulled off a crazy air and scored 9.5 and took the win. He looked streets ahead of everyone in the semis which he won easily. Joel Vaughan was cruising in second until Jacko Baker, sitting in fourth spot, ripped into a wave with two brutal turns and took second place and a berth in the finals.

Dane also won his semifinal easily, knocking out Lobbie. He kicked off the finals with a big turn and air reverse for a 6.25. Ten minutes later, with his good

mate Bronson Meydi in first and Dane in third place, he pulled off a massive backflip, thumped his chest and laughed, walking away with a 9.65, the highest score of the event, backed up with more insanity for a 7.75 to take the win with a 17.4.

It was great to see his competitors out there applauding him, with the vibe a bit more like the camaraderie of skateboarding and snowboarding.

“It’s so good, I’ve got all my friends, my closest circle, everyone here,” he said.

“Thank you to everyone that’s watching and following along. All the support means the world to me. I’m really happy to have all my family down here and to win the comp in front of my grandparents.”

“I think a lot of people don’t believe me when I say I do backflips and they think it’s all AI on Instagram, but to get one in front of everyone at my home was really special,” Henry said.

“Duffy [Adam Dufner], my coach, actually just said, don’t play into Bron son [Meydi]’s game and do a flip. The section was just too good, so I did one and then we’re all kind of laughing about it. Right till the very end, I was definitely not safe. If he got that last one at the end, I guarantee I wouldn’t be the one standing up here. Bronson pushes me to my absolute best and I’m really keen to have a lot more battles with

that guy.”

He recently had Mick Fanning knock on his door and present Dane, who also rides for Rip Curl, with a rashie for his wildcard entry into the Bells Beach CT event, so it seems like all the doors are being flung open for the young superstar.

Kingscliff’s Ava Arghyros is surfing brilliantly, and made it through to the quarters winning most of her heats, including one where she knocked Bella Nicholls out. She would have won her quarter finals but had trouble sticking her final turns, hitting the lip so hard and vertical, but she was in great company as Steph Gilmore lost in the quarters too.

With the one remaining event in the season, the Phillip Island Pro QS 4000, kicking off this week, the road to Challenger Series qualification is reaching its decisive moment with a lot of great surfers desperate to make the cut-off.

Fingal mineral testing

By Jo Kennett

A MINING company has applied for an exploration license to test for minerals to extracted from the Tweed Sand Bypass, but they face big legislative hurdles that could make the project unviable.

Mandalay Metals is applying to sample the mineral content of the sand that is being pumped by the Tweed Sand Bypass at Fingal Head to southern Gold Coast beaches.

Stephen Hughes runs Hughes Mining Services, a NSW Mining Tenement and Community Consultation Specialist representing Mandalay Metals.

Sam Meredith is President of the Fingal Head Coastcare - who have spent 40 years revegating Fingal after sand mining there - and spoke to Mr Hughes who he said “seemed genuine enough.”

“He used the words, ‘truck it (the minerals) out’ and if the project comes to fruition, how many trucks does that mean? Is that one truck a day or more?

“Mandalay have to go for a licence even to be allowed to sample the sand and with

the complexities of mining rights, it’s probably a minefield — pardon the pun.

“As long as they are open and there is a genuine process going on.

“That sand from the jetty is pumped under the Tweed River to Point Danger, just on the north side of Duranbah Beach but there is also dredging of the Tweed River mouth and some of that recently has been dropped off Dreamtime Beach and a bit off Fingal Rovers but the bulk of it goes off Kirra Beach.

“Steve Hughes said the area on the map was large because they had to follow the state plot for dividing up mineral licenses.”

The application area runs from half way up Letitia Spit to Duranbah Beach.

“Theoretically, depending on the nature of the license, what’s to stop you mining that whole area so that’s something you would have to keep an eye on,” Mr Meredith said.

“Are they templated licenses or would a potential licence be granted only to extract minerals from the sand pumped from the jetty??

“All those things are unknown at the moment and that process has to be very solid

and genuine so that every requirement is met, including keeping the community well informed.”

Former Fingal resident Katie Milne also spoke to Mr Hughes, and said minerals sought include rutile, zircon and ilmenite and if sampling is successful and the mining is approved, the processing plant would likely be in NSW rather than Queensland.

“Multiple processing plants for each arm of the Queensland network would otherwise be required, according to the proponent Mr Steven Hughes,” Ms Milne said.

“The plan is to build a processing plant next to and connected to the Sand Bypass to extract these minerals from the pumped sand.”

She has concerns about the application.

“Most of Letitia Road is a fairly narrow and rough dirt road,” she said.

“At one section it runs extremely close alongside Kerosene Bay which is an important protected wetland.

“At one point it is maybe a metre away from the bank of the bay.

Continued on page 26

Dane is the 2026 Gold Coast Open winner

You have won a single pass* to the film of your choice

The signs say it all: ‘no camping’

In response to the The Weekly’s letter and reporting around the long-stay and overnight illegal camping across the Tweed, and the council’s reply, I beg to differ that they cannot enforce them to move on.

At the end of Bay and Florence streets, where these streets end in parking spots along the Tweed River there are signs that read “No camping” and “penalties apply” so my question is why can’t these signs be placed in known ‘hot spots’ (Boyd Street too) and council rangers actually patrol and fine offenders?

I do feel sympathy but there comes a point in time when enough is enough and this is just plain vagrancy! Also, there are dumped and unregistered cars left at the side of the road for months. No wonder Tweed Heads is having such a problem.

P F Noble, Tweed Heads Outrageous dog fine as campers flout the law

After reading your article in this week’s paper (TVW, Page 5, Calls for camper crackdown) I thought, ‘well someone is finally taking note’.

I have never replied to an article in the local paper in my life, or shared my thoughts, but thought that this would be the perfect opportunity to show my frustration on what is happening in our beloved Tweed.

I am a rate paying, tax paying, law abiding, still working senior citizen. About two years ago my husband and I were walking our two well behaved dogs on a deserted beach in the Tweed with us being the only people on the beach as it was raining. Low and behold we turned around and there was the ranger with a policeman in the car.

We got fined a total of $660 with no warnings, no nothing all because our two dogs were not on a lead but were only one metre away from us because we had taken them off the lead to have a frolic in the water.

I know all the do gooders will jump on the band wagon saying well we were “breaking the law” or “dogs should be on leads” but how if this fair? We were not hurting anyone by doing this!

We live around the corner from these illegal long-term campers in Keith Compton Drive and see them daily. We have the same conversation as everyone else. How are they getting away with it? I’d also like to ask where are they going to the toilet?

One of the “campers” even goes to work every day so he’s not exactly doing it tough, it’s just a cheap way to live especially when you don’t get harassed for staying illegally.

Go for a nightly walk after 6.30pm along the river and you can have anywhere up to 20 campervans and ten tents. We have been verbally abused and threatened. Why is there not great big signs along there saying “No Camping” like there is in other parts of the Tweed (see letters)? Let me tell you if I were to get fined again for having my well-behaved dog off a lead I will not be paying the fine.

Dog owners in the Tweed are unfairly targeted and my $660 fine has left a very bad taste in my mouth.

Obviously, council have one rule for responsible dog owners and another for Illegal campers.

I can tell you now if I were walking down Keith Compton Drive without my dog on a lead I would be fined but the illegal campers would just be ignored.

I understand that only the Police have the power to physically move them on but why isn’t something being done about it?

As a rate payer of Tweed Shire, I’m requesting a response from the Council to your article.

L Tarstan, Tweed Heads Overnight campers

Under the present council guidelines it is near impossible to control illegal campers (TVW, Page 5, Calls for camper crackdown).

Very few are genuine homeless living in vans, in my experience.

Most I have spoken to have decided to out of a lifestyles choice to live in prime locations. They can avoid rents and rates and also benefiting from the many services available in the immediate area. They tell me if the council rangers come they state they are homeless and they can’t take action. They are just given more information on the services available to them.

Oliver Bode, Tweed Heads Vital road repair needed at Rosewood Avenue

While it was great to see the Tweed Coast Road in Bogangar get reconstructed recently, I am baffled as to why Rosewood Ave, the main drag from the highway, has not been touched in more than 20 years. After the floods, Poplar Ave, a side street off Rosewood, got reconstructed (which didn’t need it) and Rosewood not touched! It also seems the Sweeper cannot sweep it clean. I am paying nearly $5k in rates now, and I find this road appalling.

It is embarrassing to have visitors come and comment on the main road in/out of town. I do not live on Rosewood, but I have lived in Cabarita for 20 years now and I have never seen this road get reconstructed, merely just fill in the holes that reappear the next week. Does the council think that traffic only comes from Tweed Coast Road? Cabarita deserves better.

A Shepherd, Bogangar

Enforce regulations is all we ask on illegal camps

I have contacted Tweed Shire Council numerous times in respect of vehicles being parked contrary to council’s signs on the south-western end of Chinderah Bay Drive.

Council often replies that they do not have the ability to move people on, as was stated in The Weekly’s article on Page 5, Feb 19, Calls to

LIFE FORCE PROGRAM

crackdown on campers.

When I ask council why not simply enforce the signage, council gives no reply. Could council please publicly address the simple question: why aren’t the signs stating no camping and parking enforced at Chinderah?

Council might not have the ability to move people on however they have the power to enforce regulations as sign posted.

John Anderson, Chinderah Surviving heat waves

Some scientists attribute Australia’s recent heatwave to climate change and warn of worse to come if we open more fossil fuel projects, but the global temperature is about half a degree lower than two years ago.

While southern Australia sweltered, much of the northern hemisphere shivered due to a southward shift in the inter-tropical convergence zone.

Australia’s deadliest heatwave, with temperatures of 40-50C for 24 days straight, occurred in January 1896. Recent heatwaves have been less lethal largely due to widely available and affordable electricity.

On January 26, the wholesale price of electricity in South Australia, which had replaced all its coal with renewables, exceeded $14,000 megawatts per hour (MWh) for nearly three hours and reached $20,300/ MWh, over 50 times the retail price!

If we listen to activists, we won’t be able to afford the electricity needed to keep cool in summer and warm in winter.

D Weston Allen, Cudgen

Crunching the numbers on detached homes

In relation to the proposal to reduce the minimum property size to 5 hectares where a detached second house is allowed on land zoned RU1 (primary production) and RU2 (rural landscape), I’d like to raise a few points.

Firstly, there would be 458 properties (or 565 allotments; a property can consist of multiple allotments)

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that would come under this proposed amendment. Of these 458 properties only 70 had a farmland rating according to the Rural Land Strategy (appendix 8). So there is a minimal benefit to the farming community.

If the driver for this amendment is inter-generational living, rural property owners already have the right to have adjoining houses (dual occupancy). In the recent council meeting, the question was raised as to how many adjoining houses have been built; the reply was around 30 in about 20 years. The overwhelming comment back to Council was that owners did not want to see the secondary house. So much for keeping your family close! And according to the Council’s Rural Land Strategy, about 46% of properties zoned RU2 are rented.

Every metre away from the existing house requires extra infrastructure such as electricity and sewerage connection plus extra road access. Extra roads would generally require vegetation clearing, not to mention clearing an extra fire break around the secondary house.

The current council rates structure is based on the ‘unimproved value’ of the land, which equates to the Council not receiving one single dollar for these secondary dwellings. The occupants would not contribute to Council infrastructure such as parks, pools, libraries and local roads maintained by Council. Any additional dwelling reform must occur in concert with rates reform that reflects the true cost of secondary dwellings. The state government is currently doing some work around rural secondary dwellings (and hopefully rates reform) which is due to be announced next year.

Rolf Kuelsen, Tweed Heads

MEETINGS: 4th Thursday of each month, next meeting is on Thursday 26th February from 5 – 7pm

LOCATION: Tweed Sports Bowls Club, 4 Mingjungbal Drive, Tweed Heads South

Outrage over car boot fine

By Jo Kennett

AN EVENT coordinator and a local club are requesting a review of a $6,000 fine they were handed after Tweed Shire Council received a complaint about a car boot sale they held before Christmas.

Makers & Finders coordinator Peita Gardiman was fined $6,000 for running the car boot sale without council approval and so was Murwillumbah Leagues Club, where the sale took place.

Ms Gardiman has already submitted her request for review to council and NSW State Revenue and the club is submitting theirs soon.

Ms Gardiman wanted to highlight that the Leagues Club event was a small car boot sale and not a Makers and Finders regular event.

The Weekly contacted Mayor Chris Cherry about the fine, which has already gone to NSW State Revenue.

“Council is put in a very difficult position when we receive a complaint about an upcoming event and we then write to the event organisers and the venue advising them three weeks out that their event will need an approval, but the organisers decide to go ahead with the event anyway without the approvals in place,” Cr Cherry said.

“This is a really unfortunate situation but put yourselves in council staff shoes.

“They sent an advice re what would be required to hold the event, they included a warning about what the fine would be if it went ahead and the event was held anyway.”

Cr Cherry said it was important to understand that a DA is required to have a market on private land so council can “manage impacts of traffic, noise, garbage and amenities on neighbours.”

“I know it seems like this was a very small market but the approvals required are the same for 13 stalls or 50,” she said.

“I talked to Clint, from Brothers Leagues Club, when he contacted me, letting him know

that he can request a review of the fine that has been issued.

“I know that he had further information about the event that might be important in the review process so I certainly hope they submit that.

“It kind of seems like both parties assumed that the other one had the approvals in place.

“I also advised the club to come in and speak with our duty planner about getting a DA that allows them to hold small community events like this that drive attendance at the club.

“Our DA processing times are back at an average of around 90 days now, with only 55 days for houses, so it might be the best option to get that in place as soon as possible.”

Ms Gardiman, who runs some of the biggest markets in the shire at Jack Evans Boat Harbour, Knox Park in Murwillumbah and other venues, said the event was closer to a neighbourhood garage sale than a commercial market.

“There were no complaints on the day, no permanent structures, and no impact to neighbours,” she said.

“The scale of the penalty compared to the scale of the event is what’s so distressing.

“I understand planning rules exist for a reason.

I’m not arguing against regulation. But this level of enforcement feels wildly disproportionate — and it highlights a much bigger problem for markets and events in the Tweed.”

Undernewmanagement

The car boot sale was held on the oval at Murwillumbah Leagues Club in December

THE LEGAL LIGHT!

Get

ready for

new anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing laws

Deadlines are fast approaching for businesses to make compulsory changes to comply with new legislative amendments broadening the reach of laws fighting money laundering and covert financing of terrorism.

Reforms to the Anti-Money Laundering and CounterTerrorism Financing Act 2006 (AML/CTF Act for short) start on 31 March 2026 for what are called “tranche 1 entities” which perform financial transactions, such as banks, casinos, financial institutions and remittance service providers. These entities are already required to report suspicious activities.

Newly covered by the amended Act are “tranche 2 entities”, such as legal and accounting practices, trust and company service providers, real estate professionals, and dealers in jewels and precious metals. These must enact changes to comply by 1 July 2026.

The AML/CTF Act regulates the financial, gambling, remittance, digital currency exchange and bullion sectors, which provide designated services listed in the Act. It is regulated and policed by the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre, AUSTRAC.

Money laundering is the process of hiding the origin of illicit funds gleaned through crime, so they appear to come from a legitimate source. Organised crime is estimated to cost Australia up to $60 billion a year, mostly through money laundering.

Business lawyer Geoff Baldwin at Stacks Law Firm warns the changes require stricter financial arrangements for businesses included in the expanded Act, such as law firms, real estate agencies and jewellers.

“Most legal and real estate practices already meet some AML/CTF requirements, such as checks identifying clients and awareness of ways to spot suspicious transactions,” Mr Baldwin said.

“Money launderers are particularly attracted to places where there are transfers of large amounts of money, such as property transactions and sales of businesses.

“Having an effective AML/CTF program supplied by AUSTRAC should help practices meet new legal obligations, avoid being misused for financial crime, and make defensible decisions about clients and transactions.”

By 1 July 2026, tranche 2 entities must be enrolled with AUSTRAC, have an AML/CTF program and compliance officer, train staff on the requirements, and be ready to engage with clients and report suspicious activities. Enrolment with AUSTRAC opens on 31 March. AUSTRAC offers starter kits to help businesses prepare for the new regulations.

It would be wise to consult a legal expert to make sure your business complies with the new laws, as penalties for not complying can be severe. Maximum penalties per breach are $6.6 million for an individual or $33 million for a corporation

AUSTRAC has already won cases against casinos and banks for failing to comply, including Crown Casino, which was fined $450 million, Westpac $1.3 billion and Commonwealth Bank $700 million.

By Jonathon Howard

THE DEADLINE for the completion of the 2022 flood reconstruction is looming for the NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA), who is calling for licensed builders and trades to help homeowners upgrade, raise, rebuild or relocate their homes.

With a March 31, 2027, deadline, RA’s focus has shifted from administrative assessments to active construction sites and the pressure is on.

Builders, designers, engineers, architects, project managers and house relocation specialists are urgently needed as approximately 600 homes move into the final stage of resilient measures including raising, retrofitting and rebuilding.

The $880 million Northern Rivers Resilient Homes Program (RHP), co-funded by the NSW and Australian Governments, supports voluntary buybacks and resilience upgrades across seven local government areas of Tweed, Lismore, Ballina, Byron, Clarence Valley, Kyogle and Richmond Valley.

Minister for Recovery, North Coast and Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffin, said the rebuild had “reached a turning point”.

“We have reached a critical juncture in the Northern Rivers rebuild,” she told

The Weekly.

“Plans are being finalised, funding is in place and now we need boots on the ground to turn these designs into resilient homes.

“This is a massive call to arms for our local construction industry. We have a clear window between now and March 2027 to complete these vital works.

“By stepping up now, our builders and trades aren’t just completing a job—they are laying the foundations for a stronger, more connected Northern Rivers, bringing our neighbors home and building a legacy that will define our towns for decades to come.”

Grants of up to $100,000 are available for home raising, rebuilding or relocation, with retrofit grants up to $50,000.

A co-contribution bonus will match homeowner contributions dollar-for-dollar, potentially doubling project values.

An additional $20,000 is available for planning and design costs.

NSW Reconstruction Authority Northern Rivers Adaptation Executive Director Kristie Clarke said demand for skilled workers was unprecedented.

“The scale of work now underway across the Northern Rivers is unprecedented, and we need skilled builders and construction

For a consultation call

David Crossan Lawyer

MOTORISTS CONCERNED about constant congestion along Kennedy Drive are not alone, with Cr Rhiannon Brinsmead formally seeking an update from Tweed Shire Council as to what is being done to ease traffic pressures during council’s monthly meeting.

Council confirmed it has been liaising with Transport for NSW (TfNSW) for years regarding congestion at the Kennedy Drive interchange and other connections to the Pacific Motorway. Multiple studies have examined options for motorway upgrades, river crossings and service roads, with TfNSW more recently beginning strategic planning for the M1 south of the Queensland border.

“A joint traffic modelling project between Council and TfNSW (and funded by TfNSW) commenced in 2025 to investigate short, medium and long term upgrades for the existing double-roundabout on Kennedy Drive, which need to be compatible with future upgrades for the Pacific Motorway and the Terranora Creek bridge,” council’s response read.

“It is also considering the interaction of the Kennedy Drive interchange with a future extension of Kirkwood Road to the Motorway, consistent with the Tweed Road Development Strategy.

“Councillors and community will be updated as the preferred options are developed and costed, in the first half of 2026.

specialists to help us deliver it,” she said. Information sessions and “Builder Brekkies” will be held across the region in coming months.

Residents are invited to the resilient measures information sessions for homeowners and the construction industry on March 5, at the Murwillumbah Community Centre.

An RHP Expo will take place in the Murwillumbah Civic Centre on May 13 and a builder breakie will take place on February 26 and May 7 at Keith Café in Murwillumbah.

Deadline looming for flood reconstruction Kennedy Drive traffic

“Some of the options may include shortterm improvements to the existing Kennedy Drive configuration, however any more substantial works (for instance alteration of ramps or structures) would be determined, funded and delivered by TfNSW.

“The urgency of these works and need for collaboration were discussed with Minister for Regional Transport, Jenny Aitkinson, at Community Cabinet in mid 2025; as Council is unable to unilaterally undertake works in the area without state government coordination, designs and funding.” Council said as a short term measure, it has recently trimmed vegetation in the centre of the twin roundabouts and adjacent to the bridge abutments.

The flood in 2022 is considered the worst in the Tweed Shire's modern history

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

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

Federal Member for Richmond

Councillors tackle heavy first meeting

By Jonathon Howard

IT WAS a busy monthly meeting for our seven Tweed Shire councillors on February 12, with several major motions receiving full or partial support.

The Weekly has compiled a list of some of the top agenda items and where the votes fell.

Tweed Coast road widening works awarded

TWEED SHIRE Councillors carried a unanimous vote to award a $32.2 million contract to SEE Civil Pty Ltd to widen Sections 5 and 6 of Tweed Coast Road, marking the next phase of growth along the Tweed Coast.

The contract, which went through an extensive tendering process, is partly funded by the NSW State Government’s Accelerated Infrastructure Fund, contributing $18.5 million with the remainder to be delivered through Council’s Road and Stormwater Developer Contribution Fund ($11.33 million) and Water and Sewer Funds ($5.69 million).

The widening works will address traffic capacity constraints currently limiting Kings Forest to 1,267 residential lots.

Completion of a proposed 600mm sewer rising main is also required before further staging can proceed.

Council said the upgrades will unlock additional housing, town centres, schools and community facilities as the Tweed Coast continues to grow.

Stronger weed control and management

COUNCILLORS WERE united in their support for stronger weed man-

agement protections for its coastal littoral rainforest threatened ecological communities.

Councillors unanimously supported a motion from Cr Nola Firth and seconded by Cr Meredith Dennis recognising council’s responsibility for several littoral rainforest coastal remnants.

Cr Firth said poor maintenance can increase long-term recovery costs and risk the ecological integrity of these sensitive areas. Council will consider allocating $30,000 annually in the 2026/27 budget for ongoing minimum maintenance and regeneration works. The motion was carried unanimously during council’s February 12 meeting, with all councillors voting in favour.

Detached dual occupancy proposed changes

A NARROW four/three vote during Tweed Shire Council’s monthly meeting on February 12, could signal a new chapter in the long-running debate over detached dual occupancy for farming families.

Councillors backed an alternative motion raised by Cr Kimberly Hone and seconded by Cr Rhiannon Brinsmead, calling for a report into allowing full-sized detached secondary dwellings on rural properties larger than five hectares. The motion also seeks options for reforming how landholders contribute to council’s general services, aiming to create a “fair and balanced framework” for dual occupancies, granny flats, buildto-rent developments and land lease communities in both rural and urban

areas.

Council will also consider lobbying the NSW Government on contributions reform.

If supported, following the report, the position would be embedded in the Draft Growth Management and Housing Strategy, Rural Land Strategy Implementation Plan, Tweed Local Environment Plan and Rural Lands Development Control Plan.

Deputy Mayor Reece Byrnes joined Cr Brinsmead, Cr Hone and Cr James Owen in support, while Mayor Chris Cherry and Cr Meredith Dennis and Cr Nola Firth voted against. Give our roundabout a glow up gains support

COUNCILLOR JAMES Owen has secured a win in his campaign to improve Tweed’s visual appeal, with most of his fellow councillors backing his plan to “give Minjungbal Drive roundabout a glow up” during council’s February 12 meeting.

The alternate motion was moved by Cr Owen and seconded by Cr Rhiannon Brinsmead, in responding to growing community concern about the deteriorating condition of the South Tweed entry point roundabout. Cr Owen and Cr Brinsmead have both campaigned to improve the vi-

sual appeal of the Tweed Shire but have faced roadblocks in costs.

Residents have described struggling palm trees, patchy landscaping and an overall presentation unfit for a key gateway to the shire.

Council noted staff estimates of $250,000 and an 18-month timeline for works. Instead, councillors supported developing a more cost-effective landscaping plan using low-maintenance native ground covers similar to those at the Kings Forest roundabout. The upgrade will be considered in the 2026/27 budget, with a further report to identify other roundabouts and entry statements for improvement.

The motion was carried 6–1, with only Cr Meredith Dennis voting against.

Jet ski plan given full support by councillors IN A BOLD push to strengthen beach safety, Councillor James Owen has won unanimous support for a plan for more jet skis aimed at improv -

ing lifeguard response times during emergencies, including possible shark attacks. At the latest council meeting, February 12, councillors backed Cr Owen’s alternate motion calling on Surf Life Saving NSW to develop a comprehensive jet ski program for Tweed Shire surf clubs.

The proposal seeks clear procurement guidelines to help clubs acquire jet skis for shark response and beach safety operations, alongside standardised operator training and certification.

It also calls for structured funding pathways covering purchase, maintenance and servicing, including access to NSW Government grants and Surf Life Saving NSW resources.

Cr Owen’s motion outlined the large geographic coverage across Tweed’s 36-kilometre coastline which forms a key part of the plan, ensuring coordinated operations between clubs. If progressed, the program would be ready for the 2026–27 surf lifesaving season.

The sad roundabout at Minjungbal Dr

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Jemma, Class of 2018 at a NSW public school

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Large mulch fire

FIREFIGHTERS WERE called in to extinguish a large fire in a pile of mulch that they believe was deliberately lit at Tweed Heads South in the early hours of Sunday, February 22. Emergency services responded to the callout at approximately 4:50am, with firefighters from Fire and Rescue Banora Point tasked to the scene of the fire at Coolangatta Tweed Heads Golf Club.

Arriving to a visible glow in the distance, crews gained access to the premises and were met by onsite staff who directed them to the location of the fire.

Approximately 200sqm of cultivated trees and vegetation, intended for mulching, had been deliberately set alight.

Firefighters applied around 6,000 litres of water and Class A foam to bring the fire under control.

Onsite staff then established sprinklers to ensure complete extinguishment.

Firefighters thanked the club staff for their professional and cooperative response.

Early the next morning there was also reports of a fire in a skip bin at Tweed City which firefighters were called into extinguish.

Firefighter visits

OVER THE past couple of months, Fire and Rescue Kingscliff Firefighters have been out and about conducting Home Fire Safety Visits (HFSV) and inspecting local hydrants to help keep our community safe.

Home Fire Safety Visits are free of charge for vulnerable or elderly residents, and for anyone unable to check or maintain their smoke alarms. We also provide practical fire safety advice to help keep you, your family, and your home safe.

Fire Safety Reminders

• Don’t leave lithium batteries charging unattended, and only use genuine batteries and chargers.

• Every home or livable dwelling in NSW must have a working smoke alarm.

• Regularly check gas bottles and BBQ connections for leaks or damage.

• Clean lint filters in clothes dryers after every use to reduce fire risk.

To book a visit or for more information, visit: https://www.fire.nsw.gov.au/.../home-fire.../ safety-visits

Man airlifted with suspected spinal injuries

A MAN has been airlifted to hospital with suspected spinal injuries after being injured at Tweed Heads West on Saturday, February 21. Emergency services were called to the scene at around 8.30am, with NSW Ambulance paramedics assessing the patient before calling in a Westpac Rescue Helicopter as they suspected the patient may have suffered spinal injuries. There were no details released about the cause of the injury.

The victim, a man in his 20s, was treated by paramedics and the helicopter’s critical care medical team for spinal injuries before being stabilised and airlifted to the Princess Alexandria Hospital in Brisbane.

No further details of his condition were available.

Fire and Rescue Kingscliff firefighters have been conducting home visits Photo Fire and Rescue Kingscliff

The Westpac Rescue Helicopter landed at Tweed Heads West

A firefighter at work on the blaze

Photo Fire and Rescue Banora Point

Lock up your e-bikes

THE RISE in popularity of electric bicycles is coinciding with an increase in the bike’s theft, according to Tweed Police, who is urging some simple steps to protect your property.

Officers are reporting an increase in stolen e-bikes and bicycles around busy transport hubs, beaches, accommodation precincts and residential complexes.

Police are urging owners to take steps to document and protect their property to improve the chances of recovery if a theft does occur.

“Owners should record their e-bike’s serial number, note the make, model and any distinguishing features such as colour, accessories, or aftermarket parts, and take clear photographs from multiple angles,” police told the media.

“Uploading details to platforms like Property Vault can also assist authorities.”

The warning follows the recent recovery of an allegedly stolen AMPD Bros e-bike in Tweed Heads.

Police disrupted a male attempting to spray the bike blue; “it may originally have been black”.

Officers are seeking the rightful owner to claim the bike.

Anyone believing this e-bike belongs to them should contact Tweed Heads Police Station with proof of ownership, such as a purchase receipt, serial number, or photographs, to arrange identification and collection.

Police emphasise that accurate documentation is critical in helping return stolen property to its owners swiftly and efficiently.

Nasty fall through roof

A MAN in his 70s has been airlifted to hospital following a serious fall through a roof at a rural property in Pumpenbil, west of Murwillumbah recently.

Around 4:20pm on Wednesday, February 18, when the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service was tasked by NSW Ambulance to respond to the incident.

“Emergency services were called after the man reportedly fell approximately two to three metres through a roof, sustaining multiple injuries,” medical teams said.

“NSW Ambulance paramedics treated the patient at the scene alongside the helicopter’s critical care medical team. After being stabilised, the man was airlifted to Tweed Valley Hospital in a stable condition.”

No further details have been released.

A stolen e-bike is awaiting confirmation from the owner after police found it being painted blue

Helping kids to thrive

SHAPING OUTCOMES, a long‑trusted and vital early childhood intervention provider in the Tweed region, continues to navigate signif icant obstacles two years after being removed from its long‑term premises by the NSW Health Department.

With no permanent location secured and de mand for services sharply rising, the organisation has leaned heavily on community support to keep vital programs running for local children with developmental delay and disability.

Over the past 12 months, the Ivory Waterfront Tavern has held weekly meat and seafood raffles on a Friday and it has become a crucial lifeline.

The raffles, supported by local families and small businesses, have raised thousands of dollars that have helped bridge funding gaps and allowed Shaping Outcomes to continue delivering therapy and early intervention programs during its most unstable period.

For many families, Shaping Outcomes has been nothing short of transformative.

“Shaping Outcomes has been a lifeline for us, we didn’t know what to do or where to turn” said one Tweed Heads mum.

“Shaping Outcomes stepped in and has been able to provide support to navigate these systems, without the community support behind them, I don’t know where we’d be today.”

Another parent shared a similar experience:

“Shaping Outcomes has been a constant support in an ever changing space. Their My Time group for parents has helped me no end.”

These stories echo a growing trend. Cuts in funding and reduced access to support under the NDIS have left many families navigating long waitlists or appealing sudden eligibility changes.

As a result, Shaping Outcomes reports a substan tial increase in requests for assistance, with families caught in the crossfire of ongoing political debate around disability funding and policy reform.

Adding to the groundswell of grassroots backing, Grill’d Coolangatta has selected Shaping Outcomes as one of its current “Local Matters” campaigns.

Throughout the month of February, diners can cast a token in support of the organisation, with Grill’d donating funds based on the final tally.

Col Usher is the parent of a child with a disabil ity and the CEO of Shaping Outcomes.

“It might seem small, but these moments of community kindness mean the world when you’re fighting every day for your child’s future,” he said.

While uncertainty around its premises contin ues, one thing has become clear: the community refuses to let Shaping Outcomes stand alone.

Local families, businesses and supporters are sending a united message—children with disabili ties deserve stable, accessible, and compassionate services, and Shaping Outcomes remains essential to delivering that promise.

Shaping Outcomes CEO Colin Usher

Tweed Link

Experience life in colour at Tweed Seniors Festival 2026

Tweed Seniors Festival 2026, the region’s largest annual celebration of older people, will be held from Monday 2 March to Sunday 15 March. This year’s festival offers a diverse program designed to support wellbeing, encourage community connection and recognise the important role seniors play across the Tweed.

The 2026 theme, Live life in colour, sets the tone for a lively program including creative workshops, cultural activities, social events, scenic cruises, technology sessions and activities that support both physical and mental wellbeing.

The festivities will begin with an opening ceremony on Monday 2 March at the Murwillumbah Civic and Cultural Centre Auditorium. Surrounding the ceremony will be a Seniors Health and Wellness Expo, giving attendees access to information, demonstrations and community services.

The program will also include the annual Local Achievement Awards, recognising seniors who have made outstanding contributions to their communities.

Entertainment on the day will include performances by Chris Mallory, the Fiddle Faddle Band and the Classic Movers dancers. Guests can also enjoy a complimentary morning tea prepared by the Murwillumbah Country Women’s Association Evening Branch.

To embrace the festival theme, attendees are encouraged to dress in bright, colourful summer outfits. Local groups, including the Banora Point Walking Group, will also bring added colour through a range of community activities held during the festival.

Free transport to the opening ceremony will be available from Tweed Heads and Banora Point.

Tweed Seniors Festival is held in alignment with the NSW Seniors Festival, the largest event of its kind in the southern hemisphere.

For more information and to view this year’s program, visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/seniors-festival or contact Council’s Community Care team on 07 5569 3110 or email communityservices@tweed.nsw.gov.au

Second Cane Toad Busting Challenge set to hop off

Tweed residents are gearing up for the second round of the Community Cane Toad Control Challenge, with the next week-long toad busting event kicking off on Friday 27 February and running until midnight Saturday 7 March.

The annual program invites locals to work together to help reduce the impact of cane toads on native wildlife and the broader environment.

Cane toads remain one of the Tweed’s most damaging invasive pests. Each female can lay up to 35,000 eggs per clutch, producing multiple clutches annually, meaning populations can grow rapidly without community intervention.

How to get involved

Get together with friends and family or work alone and get outside and collect cane toads from your local environment.

Log your data online to enter and go in the draw for exciting prizes at tweed.nsw.gov.au/canetoads

The team or individual who catches the most cane toads wins.

All cane toads collected during the challenge can be taken to designated drop-off points across the Tweed, or humanely euthanised at home using the approved stepped hypothermia (fridge-then-freeze) method recommended by the RSPCA.

For more information about the challenge, visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/canetoads

Council trivia

This week's question.

True or false?

Residents can submit a request for Council to plant trees in the nature strip outside urban homes. Read the next edition for the answer.

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

In brief ...

Clean Up Australia Day is almost here!

A huge thank you to all the schools, community groups and businesses who have registered to participate in Clean Up Australia across the Tweed. Being part of Clean Up Australia Day means you’re stepping up to care for the local environment and sending the message that we all need to work together to protect the places we know and love. There are several clean-ups registered in the Tweed, including Hastings Point, Cabarita and Terranora Creek. If you haven’t joined a local clean-up already, visit the Clean Up Australia Day website to find a full list of community events open to the public. Visit cleanupaustraliaday.org.au/join-a-clean-up to register.

Bush fire risk: Have your say

The draft Bush Fire Risk Management Plan (BFRMP) for the Far North Coast is on exhibition from now until 5 pm Tuesday 31 March 2026. Developed by the Far North Coast Bush Fire Management Committee (BFMC), the draft plan examines local bush fire risk factors and sets out a treatment plan to help mitigate bush fire risk in our community over the next 5 years.

You can view the plan online or in person at Council offices and the Far North Coast Fire Control Centre. Your feedback will contribute to a safer and more resilient region.

To find out more, scan or click the QR code below.

Tweed Shire Council wishes to acknowledge the Ngandowal and Minyungbal speaking people of the Bundjalung Country,

Moobah

Members of Banora Point Walking Group, who appear in the 2026 festival program. This year's Tweed Seniors Festival will run from 2 to 15 March.

Get together with family and friends and collect as many cane toads as you can!

Trees poisoned at Tweed Heads Lawn Cemetery

Tweed Shire Council is urging the community to help protect our public spaces following the deliberate poisoning of 3 established trees at Tweed Heads Lawn Cemetery.

The trees, located near a private gravesite, were recently found to be dying as a result of suspected poisoning. Council officers have confirmed the damage is consistent with vegetation vandalism.

Cemeteries are special places for families to grieve, reflect and remember loved ones. The loss of these mature trees not only impacts the appearance of the cemetery but also affects the peaceful, shaded environment valued by visitors.

Council’s Cemeteries Business Coordinator, Greg Puch, said vandalism of this kind is distressing and disappointing.

“Deliberately damaging trees on public land is a serious matter. These trees form part of the landscape

that supports all who visit the cemetery,” Mr Puch said. While Council has a long-standing policy on vegetation vandalism on public land, taking compliance action can be difficult without witnesses or clear evidence. The dead trees will now need to be removed and replaced, adding to maintenance costs and delaying the restoration of the area.

Estimated cost to ratepayers to remove the trees is $5000.

Council is asking the community to report any suspicious activity or damage to public vegetation across the Tweed, including cemeteries, parks, reserves and beaches.

If you have information or notice vandalism, please contact Council on 02 6670 2400 or lodge a report at tweed.nsw.gov.au

Together, we can help protect and care for the places that matter to our community.

Have you seen Ode: Margaret Olley and Sally Anderson?

There are only a couple of weeks left to experience this wonderful exhibition at the Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre.

Ode: Margaret Olley and Sally Anderson brings together masterworks by one of Australia’s most celebrated painters, Margaret Olley, alongside bold new works by Gadigal/Sydney-based artist Sally Anderson.

As part of her 2025 residency at the Gallery’s Nancy Fairfax Artist in Residence Studio, Anderson created a series of paintings inspired by Olley’s iconic still life practice and objects from the much-loved re-creation of Olley’s home studio. Her works cleverly weave themes of domesticity, care and memory, inviting audiences to see Olley’s legacy in a new light. With notable loans from public and private collections, including Olley’s Banksia 1970 (right) and rarely seen pieces, this exhibition is a must-see for art lovers.

On display until 8 March 2026 at the Margaret Olley Art Centre.

Find out more or book for upcoming programs at gallery.tweed.nsw.gov.au/workshops-openings-events

Scenic Drive slip moves toward stabilisation funding

Council is working towards permanent measures to reduce risks on Scenic Drive after concerns during heavy rains last week.

The downslope slip in Scenic Drive was inspected shortly after ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred and water filled barriers were installed all the road shoulders to reduce immediate risks to motorists.

Following a detailed geotechnical assessment and cost estimate, Council applied on 11 September 2025 for Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements

(DRFA) to stabilise this section of Scenic Drive. Of the 30 DRFA submissions lodged, this project was ranked the second-highest priority in the Tweed. Only the major fast-moving slip on Kyogle Road was given a higher priority by the NSW Reconstruction Authority.

Ongoing monitoring recently showed the Scenic Drive slip was moving even in dry weather. After rainfall on Friday 13 February 2026 and with more heavy rain forecast, Council pre-emptively closed the westbound lane to safeguard motorists. When the forecast rainfall did not eventuate, further geotechnical assessments confirmed the road could safely return to two-way traffic.

To reduce risk, Council has followed expert advice to shift traffic away from the slip. Traffic lanes have been narrowed and reconfigured, and the speed limit reduced to 40 kmh. These temporary measures will remain in place until full restoration works can be carried out.

After further advocacy by Council following the rainfall event, the NSW Reconstruction Authority gave in-principle support for funding to stabilise the slip on Wednesday 18 February 2026. Council is now awaiting formal approval.

The detailed design for the Scenic Drive stabilisation works is included in a tender package due to be released in the coming weeks.

Council acknowledges community concern about the potential for further deterioration and shares the priority of keeping Scenic Drive safe and accessible.

Visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/flood-restoration-works to stay informed.

tsc@tweed.nsw.gov.au

Upcoming Resilient Homes Program events in the Tweed

Residents and local builders are invited to 2 upcoming events in the Tweed Shire hosted by the NSW Reconstruction Authority, designed to support flood-impacted households and the construction industry.

Builder Brekkie – 26 February 2026

Local builders and trades are invited to a free breakfast event to learn more about the Resilient Homes Program and the funding available to support raising, retrofitting or rebuilding homes damaged in the 2022 floods.

Event details

• 7–8 am, Thursday 26 February

• Keith Café, 132 Murwillumbah Street, Murwillumbah

Resilient Measures information session –5 March 2026

The Resilient Homes Program offers grants to help eligible homeowners make their properties safer and more flood-resilient. The information session is an opportunity to meet with the NSW Reconstruction Authority and Tweed Shire Council staff to discuss your Home Assessment Report, explore design and construction options, and get practical advice on raising, retrofitting or rebuilding your home.

Available grants include:

• up to $20,000 for feasibility and scoping

• up to $100,000 for house raising

• up to $50,000 for retrofit works.

Additional funding may be available where co-contributions are made or a waiver is approved. Attendees can also speak with Council officers about development approvals, connect with local businesses, and meet the Building Advisory Support Service (Resilient Lismore) and local Recovery Support Services.

Event details

• 4 - 7 pm, Thursday 5 March

• Murwillumbah Community Centre, Knox Park, Nullum Street, Murwillumbah

For more information on Resilient Homes Program events, visit nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/ nsw-reconstruction-authority/our-work/events

Road closures – Kingscliff Triathlon

Saturday 28 February 2026

Closed from 8 pm to midnight: Cudgen Creek boat ramp access road.

Sunday 1 March 2026

Closed from 6 am to 1 pm: Marine Parade – Moss Street to Seaview Street. Moss Street – Marine Parade to Sutherland Street. Sutherland Point Road – Sutherland Street to the dead end.

Closed from 6 to 11:30 am: Chinderah Bay Drive – Wommin Bay Road to Bangalow Street (at the caravan park). Marine Parade – Seaview Street to Wommin Bay Road. Wommin Bay Road – Marine Parade to Chinderah Bay Drive.

Development application determinations

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

Application details

Approved

DA25/0563 – Alterations and additions to dual occupancy unit

Lot 2 SP 17991, Unit 2/No. 19 Martinelli Avenue, Banora Point

DA26/0025 – Swimming pool and deck

Lot 1 DP 574429, No. 531 Carool Road, Carool

DA25/0471 – Secondary dwelling

Lot 67 DP 1191156, No. 680 Casuarina Way, Casuarina

DA25/0547 – Dual occupancy (attached) and two pools

Lot 7 DP 1291087, No. 86 Cylinders Drive, Kingscliff

DA26/0036 – In-ground swimming pool and pool house

Lot 38 DP 839005, No. 12 Blue Jay Circuit, Kingscliff

DA25/0515 – Demolition of existing garage, new detached secondary dwelling and alterations and additions to existing dwelling

Lot 100 DP 263154, No. 28 Victoria Avenue, Pottsville

The above development determinations are available for public inspection free of charge at the Planning and Regulation Division, Murwillumbah Civic Centre, during ordinary office hours or viewed on Council’s DA Tracking site located at datracker.tweed.nsw.gov.au

Traffic lanes have been narrowed and reconfigured on Scenic Drive, and the speed limit reduced to 40 kmh.

Letter over pet adoption prompts pound response

By Jonathon Howard

A RECENT Letter to the Editor questioning why unclaimed pets are no longer adopted directly from the Tweed Shire Council pound has sparked a strong response from animal welfare advocates.

Local resident Vicki Barnes expressed concern that dogs, previously available for adoption straight from the pound, are now being transferred to Friends of the Pound Inc instead.

Welcome interns

By Jonathon Howard

A TOTAL of 39 new medical interns have recently joined the Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD), delivering a welcomed boost to the Tweed Valley Hospital workforce.

The junior doctors have joined teams at both Tweed Valley Hospital and Lismore Base Hospital, where they will work alongside and learn from the district’s experienced medical staff.

After completing orientation, the interns are already providing care to local patients and supporting frontline health workers.

Interns are medical graduates who have completed their university training and must undertake a supervised year of practice to gain general registration.

During their internship, they rotate across key specialties including surgery, medicine and emergency medicine.

The new recruits are entering a statewide training program that connects hospitals across NSW, offering both formal education and hands-on experience.

They are employed on two-year contracts and rotate through metropolitan, regional and rural hospitals to broaden their clinical exposure.

NSW Minister for Health Ryan Park said the interns were already playing a valuable role in the state’s public health system.

“These new medical graduate interns already play an important role in helping to provide high-quality care in our public hospitals. We are proud to have them on our team,” Minister

Park said.

“Choosing to work here in NSW means these new junior doctors will have the opportunity to learn from some of the country’s very best, as part of Australia’s largest health system.

“From doctors, to nurses, paramedics and allied health professionals – we are rebuilding an engaged, capable and supported workforce.”

NNSWLHD Executive Director Medical Services and Clinical Governance Dr Marco Giuseppin thanked the incoming cohort for choosing to begin their careers in the region.

“I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the 39 medical graduate interns who have chosen to pursue a rewarding career within Northern NSW Local Health District,” Dr Giuseppin said.

“These junior doctors will play a critical role in supporting the community here in Northern NSW and I wish them the very best as they embark on this exciting next step in their careers.

“Northern NSW is an exciting place to work with a broad variety of clinical experiences available.

“We support people who are training to become general practitioners, rural generalists, physicians, surgeons, and almost everything in between.

“We are particularly pleased to see many of our junior doctors are local residents, who have chosen to return home to do their internships following their studies. It’s great to have them on board.”

“What I don’t understand is why council is no longer doing this, why did this change, especially now we the ratepayers have paid for a new pound capable of keeping dogs a little longer,” she wrote, adding she plans to lobby council and potentially launch a petition.

Lesley Gail, founder of Give a Dog a Home (GADAH), described Ms Barnes’ comments as “misinformation” and said dogs entering pounds are often fearful, stressed, or traumatised and require assessment, decompression, veterinary care, desexing and training before adoption.

“Sending them straight out the door to anyone who wants them without behavioural assessment, decompression, positive reinforcement training, and emotional stabilisation is not progressive thinking — it is negligent,” she said.

In 2025, 76 dogs were successfully placed

into homes through this structured process.

Friends of the Pound (Tweed) president Sonia Trichter wrote in response to the letter and defended the current system.

“When animals move from council care into rescue, they are not being ‘gifted away,’ they are entering a specialised welfare pipeline designed to maximise their chances of a stable, lifelong home,” she said.

Ms Trichter explained that pounds manage legal intake and holding, while rescue organisations provide rehabilitation, foster care and careful placement.

“Our focus is not on access, ownership, or entitlement, but on safety, recovery and permanence,” she said.

“The measure of a compassionate community is not how quickly it can hand animals over the counter, but how well it builds systems that support them for life.”

She added that rescue pressure exists everywhere and the solution is not to bypass safeguards, but to invest in prevention through desexing, education, early intervention, and foster care to reduce pound numbers over the long term.

Friends of the Pound, she said, exists solely “to improve outcomes for animals who have found themselves displaced through no fault of their own,” caring for dogs, cats, and increasingly, rabbits, because “compassion is not selective.”

new

Animal Management Facility opened late last year

Join the coastal Rural Fire Brigade

By Jonathon Howard

THERE’S NEVER been a better time to step up and give back, with the Tweed Coast Rural Fire Brigade launching a recruitment drive for new volunteers.

Whether you’re a tradie, parent, retiree, student or shift worker, brigade leaders say there is a place for you in the NSW Rural Fire Service — the world’s largest volunteer fire service.

While many people picture firefighters battling blazes through smoke and rugged bushland, brigade members say the reality is far broader.

Tweed Coast RFB President Ben Matson said the service relies on volunteers across a wide range of roles.

“The brigade needs people across a wide range of roles: from firefighting to community engagement, communications, logistics, catering, and more,” Mr Matson told The Weekly.

“If you have skills to offer, whatever they may be, there’s a way for you to contribute and make a real difference.”

Behind every crew deployed to a fireground, there are volunteers coordinating resources, preparing meals, managing radios and keeping

operations running smoothly. Not everyone is on the frontline — and that’s by design.

Brigade leaders say volunteering is not just about giving time but gaining valuable skills and connections.

RFS members are often among the first to respond when emergencies strike, protecting neighbours, family and the broader Tweed Coast community.

Volunteers receive nationally recognised training in firefighting techniques, first aid, incident management and communications.

The experience also builds strong friendships and leadership skills, with members joining a proud legacy of community service stretching back generations.

Mr Matson said one of the most common misconceptions about join-

ing is the time commitment.

“In reality, the brigade welcomes volunteers who can offer whatever time they have available,” he said.

“Whether you can commit to one weekend a month or several days a week, your contribution will be valued and put to good use.

“Training is structured to fit around your life, and the brigade works hard to accommodate the schedules of

working parents, full-time employees, students, and everyone in between.”

The Tweed Coast Rural Fire Brigade invites interested community members to visit their Centennial Drive station in Pottsville on Tuesday training nights between 6pm and 7pm, or learn more via the NSW RFS website rfs.nsw.gov.au/volunteer/jointhe-nsw-rfs

The

$9.2-million

Financial Advice

Motorcyclist death

A MAN has died following a single-vehicle crash west of Murwillumbah on Sunday, February 22.

Emergency services were called to Numinbah Road, Numinbah, at around 11am, following reports a motorcycle had left the roadway and crashed into a tree.

Tweed Byron Police officers attended and were told the rider, a 60-year-old man, was part of a group travelling towards Murwillumbah.

He was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance Paramedics before being transported to Gold Coast University Hospital with critical injuries.

Tragically, on Monday, February 23, Tweed Byron police were informed the motorcycle rider had died in hospital.

Police are preparing a report for the information of the Coroner.

Rescue squad training day

TWEED DISTRICT Rescue Squad volunteers held an intensive training day on Saturday, February 21, with a heavy rescue focus.

Councillor Reece Byrnes said he was honoured to be welcomed to the training day which

involved a crashed truck and bus as well as crushed cars.

“They have recently onboarded a new vehicle which will increase their capability and capacity to do what they do best - saving lives.”

Our chapters are meeting each week, and members are growing their businesses through word of mouth quality referrals.

On the Gold Coast and Tweed Shire, we have just under 500 members who are supporting each other through this.

Today BNI® has more than 9,200+ chapters successfully operating in over 70 countries worldwide. Our members enjoy unparalleled business growth.

In the Tweed Area, our three local business groups are BNI Aspire on a Wednesday morning, BNI Eagle on a Thursday morning or BNI Pinnacle on a Friday morning.

All and anyone are welcome to visit!

BNI provides a positive, supportive, and structured environment for the development and exchange of quality business referrals and we invite YOU to join us to network with amazing business owners.

Tweed District Rescue Squad volunteers at the training day

Our dear followers, readers and food lovers, Summer is turning into Autumn soon and we have been enjoying the last full month of Summer at the Murwillumbah Farmer’s Market! Golden mangoes, colourful dragon fruit, refreshing watermelon and beautiful papayas, passion fruit and new season’s apples and pears have nourished our bodies and souls. With sweet fruit, the Summer has been time for delicious tomatoes and lush summer greens, like basil and different spinaches and flowers. Our dear farmers and they families have been working in the heat and humidity to bring us this beautiful food each and every week. Our gratitude goes to Everest Farm, Summit Organics, Jumping Red Ant, Avocadoes from Burringbar, Costanzo Apples and Silva Lining Organics for the incredible work you do to feed our local community! Amongst our usual farmers and food vendors, this month our hairy family members have been offered many different treats. Our familiar Doggie-Licious has been companied with two new dog and pet stalls, Natural Benefits and McDoggies Treats. Welcome aboard!

This month we also celebrated Valentine’s Day at the markets! We had a beautiful selection of artisan stalls to join us to offer gifts and keepsakes to your loved ones. And our flower stalls were in amazing bloom!

Our community area has been full of your lovely faces, laughter and catch-ups. We know how important the market is for the local community and we encourage everyone to come, take your friends and family for a shop and enjoy listening music and breakfast with us when you come. Our beautiful food vendors are offering you many options for breakfast and lunch, like yummy toasties at What A Mess, beautiful variety of Japanese food at OKI Foods, samosas, rolls, pakoras amongst other treats at Lulu Blue’s Kitchen and changing, globally inspired plates at Taste Without Borders. And don’t forget beautiful fresh juices, smoothies and chia puddings at the Ripe Side! Something for everyone to enjoy! You can also find yummy pastries and treats at Tyalgum Bakehouse and Short But Sweet to accompany your coffee or chai.

With something to nourish the body, mind and soul, the Murwil-

lumbah Farmers Market continues to be a well-loved weekly gathering place for us all!

Looking forward to seeing you at the markets, Kaisa

What’s in season, tasty and interesting at the market this month

For the month of March we want to introduce you a few of our beloved stalls. First one is our bulk food stall, Tierra Bulk Foods, which is such an important addition to our markets bringing us an abundant selection of grains, pulses, nuts, seeds, pastas, muesli and so much more! Tierra Bulk Foods was established in 2019 with a mission to offer sustainable, locally sourced produce to local farmer’s markets. At Tierra they value lasting relationships with local, small and conscious farmers and that’s what we love too!

Another relatively new stall at our markets is 3 Peaks Natural Spring Water. At the corner of our gravel area you can find a happy face of Robbie, ambassador of a pure spring water and 3 Peaks Natural Spring Water. This unspoiled and pristine water

comes from their family property at Tallebudgera Valley. This water is free of contamination, rich in minerals and alkaline pH of 8.4., which is perfect for balancing the body’s alkalinity. Beyond the health benefits, 3 Peak’s spring water has a beautiful crisp, revitalizing flavour. You can come and test this yourself at the markets, where we have free 3 Peaks Natural Spring Water at the shed for tasting! Gift from Mature Nature herself!

Another lovely local stall at our markets is Wiinya Beeswax. Her beautiful candles shine at the markets and bring joy for so many! Behind Wiinya Beeswax is lovely Aimee, who’s chemical free and hand poured beeswax candles are made with purpose and love. Wiinya is a Wiradjuri word meaning ‘to burn, enlightening’a name that holds the essence of the fire, as both destruction and renewal, warmth and wisdom. We love to be the meeting place for small local businesses and the community!

Market’s 15th Birthday Coming Up

Murwillumbah Showgrounds has been home to our markets for

nearly 15 years now. Murwillumbah Farmers Market was established in 2011 and started with only 11 stalls. From its creation, the market’s ethos, values and vision have been simple – to ensure that our local community has access to fresh, local and seasonal produce each and every week.

The Murwillumbah Farmers’ Market is a not-for-profit incorporated association, and we’ve grown from a small group of producers to an abundant 40 stall market over the last decade and a half. We’re excited to celebrate our 15th birthday this April and are grateful to have been able to develop over the years with the support of Murwillumbah Showgrounds. Thank you for all our producers, customers and supporters! Soon it’s time to celebrate!

When & where?

When: EVERY Wednesday from 7am to 11am - come rain or shine! LIVE music from 8am. Where: Murwillumbah Showground

Market Contact Details Market Manager Email: hello@ murbahfarmersmarket.com.au Mobile: 0459 566 990

Impy Bottle Shop open

By Jonathon Howard

THE BOTTLE SHOP at the Imperial Hotel Murwillumbah has officially reopened in a brand-new street-facing location on Murwillumbah Street, marking a significant new step for one of the Tweed Valley’s most recognisable venues.

Now positioned next door to Gelato + Co, the relocated Impy Bottle Shop strengthens the business offering and convenience, making it easier for both locals and visitors to drop by.

Imperial Hotel marketing manager Maille Noonan said customers can take advantage of the express parking onsite for fast and easy takeaways, while the layout is equally suited to casual walk-ins and conversations with staff.

A key part of the bottleshop’s next chapter is the introduction of Shaun as the Impy Bottle Shop’s new ambassador.

“A familiar face to many, Shaun previously worked at Murwillumbah Cellars, where he built strong relationships across the local industry,” Maille said.

“Bringing deep product knowledge and established connections with producers and distributors, Shaun’s focus will be on personalised recommendations, approachable wine and beer education, and helping customers discover new favourites without intimidation.”

“Where possible, the philosophy is to support regional producers and showcase emerging Australian makers alongside well-known staples — creating a range that feels both thoughtful and accessible.”

Maille said Impy Bottle Shop offers a curated range that balances local producers with reliable favourites, featuring core categories such as local and independent craft beers, sustainable, organic and small-batch wines, and a quality spirits selection.

“Customers can also explore cool-room classics and crowd favourites, ensuring something for every taste,” she said.

The Impy Bottleshop is open daily from 11am and is designed to service hotel guests.

Everyone can stay up-to-date on the new shop via Instagram: @impybottleshop.

Heartfelt appeal

By Jonathon Howard

WHAT BEGAN as a small online post by Zoè Rose to help a young delivery driver Zac achieve his goals, has blossomed into a remarkable outpouring of community support.

A GoFundMe campaign set up for 19-yearold Zac and his family has now raised more than $30,200, a sum that will help the family immensely.

Zac’s story even featured on Channel 9’s Today Show, giving national exposure to a family who has faced immense challenges.

“Zac is 19, but due to a cognitive disorder, he experiences life in some ways like a younger teen,” Ms Rose posted online as part of the appeal.

“He is Level 2 autistic and also lives with Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), challenges that have never dimmed his kindness or determination.

“Currently, Zac lives with his mum and 17-year-old sister in a small camper at a caravan park.

“When it rains, their gazebo collapses and their outdoor kitchen floods.

“Despite limited space and resources, they support one another with resilience and humor — even when the kettle blew up while making a simple cup of tea, a moment that captured the family’s grace under pressure.”

Ms Rose said after leaving domestic violence, Zac and his mum have had no extended family support and have been rebuilding their lives entirely on their own.

“The loss of Zac’s grandfather in 2022 left a particularly deep hole; for Zac, his grandfather was a guide, a friend, and a source of safety in a confusing world,” she said.

“Making friends at school was always difficult for Zac. At one point, he even took a small amount from his uncle’s wallet to give to other

kids — simply to try to feel included.

“One year ago, however, he made his first real friend at the caravan park, who later lent him a bike so he could do his first DoorDash delivery.”

Despite the challenges he faces, Zac has a clear goal: he wants to become a mechanic, earn his independence, and eventually live close to his mum so he can continue supporting her.

“The GoFundMe campaign aims to help the family secure e-bikes — one for Zac and one for his mum — providing them with stability and a safer foundation to rebuild their lives,” Ms Rose said.

Ms Rose, who originally posted about Zac to help him after a stormy DoorDash delivery, emphasised the authenticity of the fundraiser:

“This is not a scam. I have met Zac and his mum. I have sat with them and seen how they are living,” she said.

“Every dollar raised goes directly to helping them secure safer, more stable living arrangements and practical steps toward independence.”

The campaign’s growth has been extraordinary: from $20,000 to $30,220 and still climbing with a target of 35,000.

“To everyone who contributed, shared, or simply cared — thank you. You’ve helped a young man and his family feel seen, supported, and reminded that they’re not alone,” she said.

Make a donation or help spread the word via: https://gofund.me/317922d06

The new and improved Impy Bottle Shop is staffed by expert retailer Shaun pictured with Maille

Zac (middle) with a friend (right) and Ms Rose

THE FOOTY is well and truly back with the openers in Vegas this weekend. I still love the concept and the theatre that comes with it and hope they continue for a bit longer. The coaches might not love it with the t ravel and ‘holiday’ mode the players get into but it’s great for the game and the fans who travel over.

Well done to the Bulldogs also in paying for 40 extra staff from the ‘office’ side to go and attend - great gesture.

The pre-season challenge has had some interesting results and usually does but some t eams will roll into round one confident and others a little concerned.

The bonus points system is a bit of a comic with the challenge but well done to Parra for pocketing the $100k extra.

The form of the Titans was great and I’m really

AT THE FOOTY with Quinny

looking forward to seeing how they go under coach Hannay. There is definitely a different vibe amongst the players and the whole joint to be honest. There is some belief in the team and the players involved and that’s a positive. I’m really looking forward to seeing Cooper Bai as a locked in NRL player and also the debut of Zane Harrison in 2026.

One of the real highlights from the pre-season was Tom Flegler’s return after almost 700 days out of the game. Some real head noise when long term injuries go back-to-back and he has done a great job to return.

I also love watching the young up and coming players have a crack. Haemasi Mak asini from the Tigers will be a star and his try against the all-conquering Panthers was Jonah Lomu like.

Other big news from the

pre-season was the Payne/ Hakeem Haas situation at the Broncos. He will be a huge loss, but the Broncos will be hard to beat again. They were poor in the cold of England for 60 mins but the last 20 was electric and showed what they can do. Massive shout out to local junior and former South Tweed Bear and SJC student Jai Whitbread who is now a World Champion after Hull KR’s victory over the Broncos. Jai has had a massive 12 months with the Robins winning the league leaders shield, challenge cup, premiership and now World Club Challenge, well done mate.

We are so close to kick off for 2026 and I for one cannot wait for the ‘Greatest Game of All’.

See you at the footy.

Quinny

Sunday 1st March

Cowboys1:15pmAllegiant Stadium, Las Vegas Sunday 1st March

Thursday 5th March

Friday 6th March

Friday 6th March

Dragons3:30pmAllegiant Stadium, Las Vegas

Park, Melbourne, Victoria

Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane, Queensland

Media Stadium, Auckland Saturday 7th

7th MarchSea

4 Pines Park, Sydney, New South Wales Sunday 8th March

Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane, Queensland

Help Clean Up Tweed

By Jonathon Howard

EXCITEMENT IS building across the Tweed as community groups and residents prepare to roll up their sleeves for Clean Up Australia Day on Sunday, March 1, marking 36 years of local action to protect and preserve the region’s stunning natural beauty.

What began as a simple idea by yachtsman Ian Kiernan in 1989 to Clean Up Sydney Harbour, after he was shocked by the pollution he saw sailing the world’s oceans, has grown into the nation’s largest community-based environmental event.

Today, Clean Up Australia Day mobilises hundreds of thousands of volunteers annually, united by a shared goal: keeping Australia beautiful.

Now, Tweed residents are being urged to be part of that proud legacy.

Big Trev Water Sports Tweed owner Trev is leading the charge at Jack Evans Boat Harbour, rallying families, residents and holidaymakers to join the clean-up effort.

Big Trev is again supported by Twin Towns Services Club, Lions Club of Coolangatta/Tweed and OzFish, who are calling on everyone to come down and join in the clean up.

“The Jack Evans Boat Harbour clean-up team is ready to go and we’re encouraging everyone to help make the shire look even more beautiful,” Big Trev told The Weekly.

From 10am to 1pm (NSW time), volunteers can head down to the harbour to lend a hand — or register ahead of time via the Clean Up Australia website.

“Whether it’s your first time or you’ve been coming for years, every pair of helping hands counts,” he said.

tradition of supplying a free barbecue for participants, generously staffed by the Lions Club of Coolangatta and Tweed Heads.

Lions representatives Coral Kelly and Lorna Bartholomew will be on the tongs, serving up snags and plenty of encouragement.

“This is an important event to raise awareness and for people to take pride in their community,” Lorna said.

“The schools will also be taking part and we encourage everyone to help clean up our beautiful shire and country.”

OzFish Australia will be on site tallying collected waste and supplying gloves, bags and support to volunteers.

Each year, volunteers collect everything from cigarette butts and food wrappers to takeaway containers and general litter.

While Big Trev said it’s encouraging to see an improvement in discarded fishing tackle and bait bags, “there is still work to be done”.

“Fortunately we’ve seen an improvement in fishing tackle and bait bags, which is great — but they’re still around the area,” he said.

Twin Towns supervisor Bec O’Brien said the organisation is “extremely proud” to continue its decades-long support of the event.

“Australia’s Clean Up Day is a proud day for the community and Twin Towns to keep our stunning area clean and beautiful for all to enjoy,” she said.

Help is also needed at the following: Cabarita Beach:

Time: Sunday, March 1 start at 7:30am

Location: 109 Tweed Coast Rd, Bogangar Landmark: Lions Park, Norries Head, Cabarita Beach

Hastings Point: Sunday, March 1 from 8am to 11am.

Location: Opposite the Hastings Point General Store at the picnic table near the amenities block at 1 Yugari Drive (the start of the road up the headland).

Cudgen Nature Reserve

Time: 8:30am - 11:30am

Location: 1 Cypress Crescent, Cabarita Beach. Meeting Point: Meet at the beach access adjacent to Cypress Crescent Cabarita Beach.

Fingal mineral testing

Continued from Page 3

“It is already unstable and eroding into the bay and there is an informal layer of bitumen down the bank that appears to have been laid in an attempt to stop the bank collapsing completely.”

Ms Milne said if the bank collapsed it would be “catastrophic, cutting off access to the sand bypass and Tweed River training walls as well as access to this popular recreation area and areas of Aboriginal cultural significance.”

“The road at this section would need major realignment or reconstruction to withstand heavy truck movements,” she said.

““The Council and community have previously opposed bitumen sealing of the 2km dirt section of Letitia Road and other developments at Fingal Head due to the preference for a natural style area.”

She is concerned trucks would need to run past the local school entrance and drop off area, and past the caravan park and tent camping area.

“Though Letitia Road is bitumen sealed there it is very narrow, constrained and highly congested with parking, traffic, children and tourist pedestrians especially at peak holiday times and no formal footpaths or kerbs,” she said.

the ‘Coral Gardens’ at Cook Island and the unique aquatic flora and fauna of Kirra Reef.” Ms Milne says increased water turbidity would threaten the survival of seagrasses and saltmarsh/salt-marsh communities in the lower Tweed estuary, vital nurseries for aquatic species.

“Processing mineral sands concentrates naturally occurring thorium and uranium,” she said. “Returning these tailings to the beach would pose an unacceptable long-term radiological risk to the environment.

“Any flocculants or chemicals used in mineral separation risk entering the marine environment, damaging the fragile balance of t he offshore reefs and aquatic ecosystems.”

Ms Milne says the proposal conflicts with the Tweed River Entrance Sand Bypassing Act, mandating the project’s purpose as improving navigation and beach nourishment. “It does not allow for the commercial diversion of sand for private mineral profit,” she said, suggesting complex legislative changes would be required if it went ahead. “Under the binational agreement, Queensland has a “right to the flow of sand,” Ms Milne said.

Terranora Creek:

POTTSVILLE & DISTRICT MEN’S SHED PRESENT:

Adding to the festive community spirit, Twin Towns will continue its long-standing

POTTSVILLE

“So grab your hat, sunscreen and water bottle — slip, slop, slap — pull on some gloves and be part of a movement that’s been making a difference for 36 years,” the group said. Help is also needed at:

Tweed Gold Coast Freedivers Club are running a clean up of the Tweed waterways meeting at 7:30am - 12pm. Meet at Kennedy Drive boat ramp near the jetty.

“The extraction and processing of minerals include intensive sand washing creating sediment that stay suspended longer than natural sand. These plumes could smother

POTTSVILLE & DISTRICT MEN’S SHED PRESENT:

POTTSVILLE & DISTRICT MEN’S SHED PRESENT:

“Allowing a commercial interest to extract minerals from this shared resource may trigger a high-level legal dispute between the two states due to breaching the mandated 500,000 m3 annual nourishment requirement.”

FRIDAY 6 MARCH 2026

9AM - 2PM

FRIDAY 6 MARCH 2026

FRIDAY 6 MARCH 2026 9AM - 2PM

POTTSVILLE

FRIDAY 6 MARCH 2026

POTTSVILLE BEACH COMMUNITY HALL

9AM - 2PM

POTTSVILLE BEACH COMMUNITY HALL

The Clean Up team at Tweed Heads (Jack Evans Boat Harbour) are calling on residents to help Clean Up Tweed

Little Gallery and The Tempest

By Madeleine Murray

ELEVEN ARTISTS from Little Gallery, Uki, are presenting a new exhibition inspired by Shakespeare’s The Tempest, performed this March by Murwillumbah Theatre Company. Invited to create works in response to the production, the collective eagerly embraced the opportunity to translate the play’s magic into visual art.

“While each of us works across different mediums and draws inspiration from diverse sources, it’s a wonderful challenge to respond to the same stimulus,” artist Marlena Basser told The Weekly.

“The Tempest is rich with imagery, emotion and symbolism. We’re thrilled audiences can experience both the play and the exhibition in the same month – it offers a truly immersive artistic experience.”

The collective includes painters, ceramicists, sculptors, photographers, and jewellery makers, ensuring a vibrant and varied body of work. Each artist interprets key aspects of the play – its stormy seas, enchanted is land, lyrical language, characters,

costumes and props – through their individual creative lens.

Jewellery maker Michele Bevis of emubeads has crafted a bridal necklace and earrings for Miranda, the heroine who marries during the play.

“For Miranda’s jewellery, I wanted to capture both innocence and strength,” Michele told The Weekly.

“She’s vulnerable as the only feminine character, yet resilient – raised on a magical island. The white glass beads reflect shifting sea light and Miranda’s independence, free from traditional social constraints.”

Sculptor Chris Mellor, known for using found objects, drew inspiration from a seed pod resembling a ship’s hull. She transformed it into a scene of the wrecked vessel, using feathers for sails and resin for the ocean, creating a vivid echo of the play’s opening storm.

Painter and glass mosaic artist Jenny Sayer is donating her painting Ariel to be raffled by the Murwillumbah Theatre Company.

“Donating the work felt like the perfect way to celebrate the collaboration between visual art and live performance,” Jenny told The Weekly.

“In my painting, I portray the mercurial spirit Ariel intertwined with a mystical island tree.”

Costumed performers from the theatre company will be at the gallery’s opening night, blending stage magic with the visual creativity.

The exhibition, Tempest, opens 6pm-8pm on Thursday, March 6, and runs until March 29 at Little Gallery, The Buttery, 1454 Kyogle Road, Uki. Murwillumbah Theatre Company presents The Tempest from March 13–29 at the Murwillumbah Civic Centre. For more details, visit murwillumbahtheatrecompany.com. au or book online at www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1515319

LEFT: Jenny Sayer's swirling painting of Ariel trapped in a tree.

RIGHT: Chris Mellor used a seed pod for the hull, resin for the sea and feathers for sails in the opening tempest

Small worlds, big ideas

By Rada Campbell

SMALL WORLDS is inviting regional artists to think big by working small.

The new sculpture exhibition, to be held at M-Arts Precinct from June 20 to July 4, 2026, will run alongside the Lava Arts Festival but with a sharply defined focus: sculpture only.

Unlike Lava’s broader multi-arts program, Small Worlds is dedicated to sculptural practice and, more specifically, to the Marquette, a small-scale model of a larger work.

“It’s a smaller version of something bigger,” curator Annie Long said. “When you enter an outdoor sculpture exhibition, you usually have to show a Marquette of what you’re going to do.”

The exhibition is designed as a testing ground. Selected works must not only be small, but demonstrate clear potential to scale into future outdoor installations.

“It’s about artists thinking long term,” Annie told The Weekly. “Scaling up for outdoor work is quite a big process - materials, engineering, weather resistance. This exhibition is an opportunity to explore that.”

Trackways Sculpture Committee is offering a $2,500 prize for an outstanding work, along with a professional promotional photography package valued at $500 for the runner up. The exhibition will be judged by Samantha Collyer-Moss, artistic director of the Brunswick Nature Sculpture Walk.

Ms Long said practical support and visibility were essential for regional sculptors looking to transition into larger public works.

“It’s very important,” she said. “There are wonderful sculpture opportunities in this region, but it is a process to move from smaller studio work into large outdoor installations.”

The long-term ambition is clear.

Small Worlds builds on Annie’s curatorial history in the region. She established the Murwillumbah Arts Trail, co-curated 25 Years, 25 Artists at Southern Cross University, and has initiated and exhibited in multiple outdoor sculpture exhibitions including Swell Sculpture Festival and Sculpture Distilled at Husk Distillery.

By Rada Campbell

TWEED REGIONAL gallery is hosting a moment of Australian art history as one of the nation’s most iconic photographs is transformed into a postage stamp.

Anne Zahalka’s The Bathers (1989), held in the Tweed Regional Gallery collection, has been selected by Australia Post for a new $1.70 stamp celebrating landmark Australian photographic works. At the same time, Zahalka is in Murwillumbah for the opening of her major survey exhibition ZAHALKAWORLD – an artist’s archive.

It means a work that quietly challenged the national image nearly four decades ago is now being circulated across the country, launched while the artist herself is walking the gallery floor right here in the Tweed.

Standing before the photograph this week, Anne spoke with a mix of pride and humility.

“When I heard about the stamp, I thought, I’ve made it,” she told The Weekly. “It’s almost like being on money.”

Created at Bondi Pavilion in 1989, The Bathers reimagined Charles Meere’s 1940 painting Australian Beach Pattern, replacing the ideal ised, Anglo-centric beach tableau with a deliberately diverse cast of figures, Jewish families, migrants, students, Indigenous Australians and, tucked among them, Zahalka’s own husband.

“I wanted to acknowledge and celebrate that mixture of cultures,” she said. “We don’t all look like the bronzed Aussie stereotype.”

The work emerged from Anne’s own upbringing as the daughter of an Austrian Jewish

“Our hope is that this becomes a stepping stone toward future outdoor sculpture projects around the Tweed Valley,” she said. Entries close April 5, 2026. Application details are available at www.trackwayssculpture.com

mother and a Czech Catholic father in Sydney. She spoke candidly about reconnecting later in life with her Jewish heritage, and how identity has remained central to her practice.

The Bondi Pavilion location has since taken on heavier meaning following acts of antisemitic violence in the area. Anne said the image now carries layered histories.

“It’s just one of many groups that make up our very diverse community,” she said. “It’s important that we see them and acknowledge that. But it’s also heartbreaking.”

The Tweed Regional Gallery exhibition, presented with the Museum of Australian Photography, spans four decades of Anne’s staged photographic practice. In a fitting echo of the gallery’s permanent Margaret Olley home studio installation, visitors can step inside a detailed recreation of Anne’s own house-studio. For the next two weeks, Anne will remain in the region as national recognition of her work unfolds.

A piece of Australian visual history is quite literally being stamped into circulation, and it is happening in our own backyard.

ZAHALKHAWORLD – an artist’s archive

Annie Long, photo by Raimond deWeerdt

Artwork by Annie Long

Artwork by Dave Hickson

Anne Zahalka with The Bathers, the 1989 photograph entering Australian iconography as a 2026 Australia Post stamp

Gallery autumn arts program

By Jo Kennett

TWEED REGIONAL Gallery

launched its autumn program on Friday, February 20, pre senting four exciting exhibi tions spanning photography, installation and contemporary painting.

The new season features a landmark survey by ac claimed photo‑media artist Anne Zahalka, a playful yet probing installation series by Antoinette Edmunds, a monu mental self‑portrait by Archie Moore (Kamilaroi/Bigambul) touring from the National Por trait Gallery, and a new body of paintings by Oliver Abbott exploring memory and place.

Anne Zahalka and MAPh Gallery Director Anouska Phizacklea were on hand for the launch with an exhibition walk through of ZAHALKA WORLD – an artist’s archive, a Museum of Australian Pho tography (MAPh) touring exhibition.

Gallery Director, Ingrid Hedgcock, said that the ex hibitions were an example of depth of talent and diversity in the Australian art landscape.

“Together, these shows in vite audiences to step inside artists’ methods and archives, consider the politics of identi ty, reflect on our shared envi ronment and reimagine local histories through the lens of memory and making,” Ms

Hedgcock said.

ZAHALKAWORLD - an artist’s archive

Renowned Australian pho to‑media artist Anne Zahal ka presents a major survey drawing together key bodies of work from four decades of practice. Centred on the artist’s archive, the exhibi tion pairs seminal series with personal and professional ma terials notes, ephemera and collected treasures that have informed her image‑making. A striking re‑creation of Zahal ka’s house‑studio within the Gallery invites visitors into the creative processes behind her illusionary worlds.

Curator Anouska Phizacklea said Zahalka’s photographs have become iconic and rep resent key moments in Austra lia’s history and being able to see how the artist works is an exceptional opportunity.

Sensory - Antoinette

Edmunds

A Tweed Regional Gallery initiative and outcome of the Platform program.

Regional artist Antoinette Edmunds explores the im portance of the senses and the symbiosis between humans and animals within a shared environment.

Working across sculpture, installation, photography and painting, and drawing on horticultural and health sci

ences, Edmunds transforms discarded, everyday materi als (including eggshells and found objects) into whimsical forms that gently probe how and what we consume.

Mīal - Archie Moore

Fresh from international ac claim as the first Australian to win the Venice Biennale’s Golden Lion for best nation al participation (2024), cele brated multidisciplinary artist Archie Moore (Kamilaroi/Big ambul) Mīal, and the Nation al Portrait Gallery presents Mīal, an abstract, conceptual self‑portrait touring from the National Portrait Gallery’s collection.

Composed of multiple geo metric paintings each repre senting a part of the artist’s body and matched to the Pan tone equivalents of his skin Mīal continues Moore’s inci sive examination of identity, racism and language systems. Moore’s work is presented with the support of the Na tional Portrait Gallery as part

of a national regional tour in 2025–2026.

Processing - Oliver Abbott

In Processing, Sydney‑based artist Oliver Abbott explores how personal and collective histories are constructed by revisiting relics of architecture and infrastructure unique to the Tweed. Embracing the uncertainties and gaps in the visual historic record, Abbott treats omissions as opportuni ties to generate new, fictional spaces.

Recipient of the 2025 Tweed Regional Gallery – National Art School Master of Fine Art (Painting) Residency Award, Abbott’s solo exhibition Pro cessing is the culmination of the artist’s time at the Gal lery’s on sit e Nancy Fairfax Artist in Residence Studio.

ZAHALKAWORLD and Sensory (Antoinette Edmunds) are open until May 17, Mīal (Archie Moore) until May 31 and Processing (Oliver Abbott) is open until June 28.

Close encounters of the bird kind

By Julia Collingwood

AN ENCHANTING EXHIBI

TION by Amy Carroll ‘Close Encounters of the Bird Kind’ opens at Art Post Uki 6pm Thursday February 26.

Her show, consisting of 7 bird and 3 butterfly waterc olour paintings, is nothing less than exquisite. The fine detail is captivating.

Amy’s art invites us to slow down. To look. To be mindful of the beauty in our natural environment.

These paintings are not Amy’s ‘impressions’ of the nat ural world, they are the result of deep looking and curiosity.

When Amy paints a bird, they aren’t perched on a non specific branch, they are painted in a tree or bush in which they roost and feed.

Amy’s birds and butterflies are specific studies. As she explains, ‘they are a nod to the historical art of botanical illustration’.

They offer an authenticity in an age of compromised images.

Amy trained as as a botanical artist and illustrator.

She arrived in Uki 30 years ago from Brisbane and built with her partner a home of rock and timber.

Regularly Amy stays on a property in northern Queensland which is alive

with birds and animals and is the inspiration for much of her work.

Amy has exhibited in the Northern Rivers and Brisbane. ‘Close Encounters of the Bird Kind’ opens 6pm Thurs day February 16 at the Uki Post Office. Closes April 8. Opening hours: 7am 5pm weekdays, 7.30 12.30pm Satur day and 8am 12.30pm Sunday.

Satin bower bird

In the studio

in Murwillumbah?

3. Who is the town Pottsville named after?

4. What is the name of the road that links Cabarita and Condong?

5. How long is the Tweed River? A. 68km B. 73km or C. 78km?

Symphony Orchestra, 3. Bill Potts, 4. Clothiers Creek Road, 5. C. 78km

(5)

Cured pork product (5)

Pearls for theanniversary (9)

Painted likenesses (9)

Maize (4)

Tribute of respect

46 Having the ability (7)

Front leg of an animal (8) 50 Look slyly (4)

Bauble (8)

US liquid measure (6) 54 Duo (4)

55 Those like Robin or Chewbacca e.g. (9)

58 Those who work with clay (9)

60 Third rock from the sun (5)

61 Spoken sarcastically (10)

63 Choices (10)

64 Inspect (7)

65 Absolutely necessary (5)

66 - of a Wimpy Kid (5)

67 A difficult situation (11)

68 Tooth-related (6)

69 A friend of both of us, for example (6) DOWN

2 Scheme (7)

3 Birth by surgical incision (9)

4 Here Comes the - (5)

5 By the shore (7)

Annihilation (10)

in water (9)

Taxonomic rank (7)

Sacramento is the

(10)

Carry on (8)

Deadly (6)

Foreign (6)

Hesitantly (11)

25 Refreshed and invigorated (11)

26 Tribal symbol (5)

27 Foot therapy (11)

28 English performing arts festival (11)

30 Open to ideas (9)

34 Homeland of Eva Peron (9)

35 Making biological copies (7)

36 Wished to be

6 One who loves their country (7)

7 Set in stone (5) 9 The act of being

JUNIO

GET OUT, GET SOCIAL, MAKE NEW FRIENDS

Twin Towns gives you the perfect excuse to get out of the house and make new friends at one of their social get-togethers.

THE BOARD GAMERS

Second & fourth Wednesday of the month, 10.45am to 12pm Qld, Signatures, Lobby Level, The Sebel Twin Towns

It’s game on at this entertaining get-together. Play one of your favourites or try something new.

STITCH & SMILE CLUB

First & third Wednesday of the month, 10.30am to 11.30am Qld, Flame, Level 1, Twin Towns

Bring your latest handcrafts and share with the group or just come along for a chat and a cuppa with friends.

FREE FUN BINGO AT CLUB BANORA

Every Thursday from 11am NSW, Banora Lounge Fun Bingo is not about winning, it’s about walking away with a ‘winning feeling’ because you’ve had the best time!

AGEING WELL

Third Monday of the month, 10am to 11.30am Qld, Visions (Resort side of Twin Towns)

Don’t let ageing stop you from doing what you love! This group features guest speakers who share information on physical challenges, cognitive impairment and agerelated problems. www. twintowns.com.au/social-groups

ANOTHER TWIN TOWNS NATIONAL SNOOKER CHAMPION

Club Banora Snooker Club has another Australian Junior Champion, after 14-year-old Adam Grunsell recently took out the Under 15 Billiards Championships in Albury.

Adam is the third Australian Junior Champion in just five years that the club has produced, after wins for Christiano De Azevedo (2022) and Cooper Thomson (2024).

Three players attended the National Championships, helped by funding from the Twin Towns Services Community Foundation. The Foundation has consistently supported snooker club members over the past few years.

After an intense three days of round robin matches in Snooker and Billiards, Luke Bofinger made the quarter finals of the U21 Billiards before losing to fellow Banora player Cooper Thomson.

Cooper lost in the semi-finals of the U21 Billiards and Quarter Finals of the U21 Snooker.

In the U15 Snooker, Adam agonisingly lost out in a close semi-final before he gathered himself and won his U15 Billiards semi-final to make it to his first ever national final.

Adam led for the first hour of the final before his opponent took the lead. Adam rallied with some fantastic shots under pressure to retake the lead and eventually, won the Championship 158-145.

Adam is the third generation of Grunsells that play at Club Banora with his Dad Ric and Pop Peter.

Twin Towns Snooker Club has a thriving junior division thanks to their coaching initiatives. For more information, contact Jimmy Thomson at clubbanorasnooker@gmail.com

COOL FUN & GAMES COMING TO BANORA

Kids will be pleased to learn that some exciting new and colourful additions are coming to the outdoor playground at Club Banora next month.

From around 20 April, dependent on the weather and contractors, work will commence on removing some of the older installations designed for younger children.

A new and improved soft-fall surface, thicker and softer than previously, will be laid below the new equipment to provide added protection from falls.

Kids will soon be creating imaginative adventures at the surf shop and ice-cream truck, while building balance and coordination skills on the surfboard and octopus rockers.

The works will take approximately one to two weeks. Just one section of the playground will be closed during this time.

PARTY IN YOUR OWN CABANA

Club Banora’s cool, colourful cabanas in the outdoor playground are the perfect place for a family gathering or birthday party. Each cabana can accommodate around 20 guests, with

These must be ordered at least seven days in advance and paid for in person at Slice & Fork. Call 07 5506 0365. Cabanas are available seven days a week; hire fee is $75 for up to four hours.

Scan the QR code below to book and pay online. Platter menus are online too.

Family Fun Day at Club Banora

Easter Family Fun Day at Club Banora is jam-packed with fun and games for the kids.

The Easter Bunny will hop by with a basket-load of eggs and the Twinnies Gives mascot, Candoo the Cockatoo, will fly in with some giveaways.

Last time Byron Bay superstar DJ Shorty Brown visited Club Banora, she ROCKED the house! Shorty’s back with all the songs that get kids, and mums and dads too, dancing their socks off!

There will also be an animal farm, circus school and Magic Mike the magician.

Schweppes has a free soft drink or Slushee for the kids and from 1pm, soloist Scott Whatman performs outdoors to keep all ages entertained. Meals, snacks and beverages can all be enjoyed outdoors. Put together a group of family and friends and treat the kids to a fun Easter Sunday in the sunshine! See left for more information.

time all year. Thank you for your understanding.

Meet the Twinnies Gives Mascot Candoo on Easter Sunday

CLUB BANORA

juniors

Tweed Valley

IVECO DAILY 1997 Turbo Diesel CAMPERVAN: Fully off grid Solar/ Gas, Ensuite, New 12v Fridge, 4x new batteries recently serviced excellent condition. $30,000, will accept trade-in or swap for 4WD to the same value with cash adjustment either way. NSW Rego

always under cover, including extras, immaculate. 23k solid. Phone: 0409 881 826

week a ‘Scales’ Green Frog will be hidden in the Trades & Professional Services section. The first person to email: trades@theweekly.net.au and

TO LET White Hall Lodge, Located in Coolangatta. Fully furnished single rooms only to rent with cooking facilities. Would suit retired aged pensioner. Close to Club, Shops, beach. No Lease or Bond required.

$325 per week. Ph: 0448 363 234 or 07 5599 1089

TO LET 10 acres, creek access, 1km to Uki, private access, self-sufficient campsite, room for several tents. Phone 0492 164 021

CLASSIFIEDS

Weekly

In Memoriam

Funeral Notice

Funeral Director

In loving memory of:

Christine Ray

30th April 1952 - 20th February 2026

Beloved wife of Greg

Mother of Hamish, Caely, Liam Jude, Shiloh and Lauren

Beloved Nanna C to Isis, Lily, Jarrah, Zoe, Daisy and Torhyn Lover of gardens, acting and her entire glorious extended family

Celebration

Please

Weekly In Memoriam

Death Notice

In loving memory of

Jeanette Mary Geerz

née Duncan

Aged 85 years

Passed away peacefully on 17 February 2026 at Tweed Valley Care Community, late of Kingscli and Murwillumbah. Your love, kindness, and beautiful spirit will forever remain in our hearts. We were so blessed to share our lives with you, and your amazing legacy of love will continue to live on within us always.

Beloved wife of Walter (deceased).

Much loved mother and mother-in-law of Wally & Lesley, Robert & Robyn, Sabena & Mark, and Tanya & Ben.

Adored grandmother, great grandmother and great-great grandmother to their families.

Privately cremated Forever Loved

Funeral Notice

In loving memory of

Passed away 16th February 2026

Late of Kingscli , aged 83 years

Beloved wife of Graham

Dearly loved mother of Kerry, Colin and family

Family and friends of Joy are invited to a celebration of her life to be held at the Melaleuca Station Memorial Gardens Chapel, 9394 Tweed Valley Way, Chinderah on Monday 2nd March 2026 at 10:30am (NSW time)

For those unable to attend the funeral will be streamed at heritagebrothers.com.au/livestreams

Death Notice

In Loving Memory SHAUN DAVID SMITH

Passed away suddenly on the 31.01.2026

Aged 51 years

Loved Father of Caleb

Loving Son of Les & Pauline

Brother to Stuart & Stacy

A private service has been held Forever in our hearts

Death Notice

Valerie Belle ZAHN

Passed away peacefully in Tweed Valley Hospital on the 21st February 2026.

Beloved wife of Les, Mother to John, Stephen and Peter, Grandmother to nine and Great-grandmother to five.

Many thanks to the doctors and in particular the nursing sta .

Gary Dickinson

One year without you. Our hearts were broken when we lost you so suddenly, yet you never walked alonea part of us went with you. You live on in our hearts forever. Until we meet again.

Always loved and deeply missed, Tracey, Kristopher, Jordan, John, Cli & Linda, Debbie & Ian (UK) and families

Simplicity Funerals Twin Towns 07 5599 1800

MAURER Geoffrey Marlin 18/02/2026

TOLLAND Nancy 17/02/2026

BURCHER Joan 13/02/2026

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

KAPEEN Alvina Rosetta 16/02/2026

READING Robert Roydon 16/02/2026

CHRISTENSEN James Fredrick 17/02/2026

ONYETT William James 18/02/2026

KNIGHT Beryl Claire 19/02/2026

ROTHWELL Margaret Doreen 19/02/2026

SCHULTZ Paul Lyle 19/02/2026

RAY Christine 20/02/2026

PERDICARIS Spiro 21/02/2026

SAVAGE Marion 21/02/2026

GIBSON Victor “Keith” 22/02/2026

VAN ROSS Ellsworth (Patrick) 22/02/2026

Tiare Funerals 0416 389 587

PEARCE Gilbert 16/2/2026

KARAYANNIDES John 22/2/2026

Paperbark Deathcare & Funerals 0466 526 156

Daniel Pearce 02/12/2025

David Bruce Ferrier 22/01/2026

Leo James McDonald 01/02/2026

Duncan Arthur Richards 10/02/2026

Joan Scarsbrick 15/02/2026

Roger Alan Bowden 16/02/2026

Maddie Jade Gilligan 16/02/2026

Peter John Ross 17/02/2026

Franz Hernberger 22/02/2026

Cherished Pop of Bella, Jimmy, Layla, Marley, Pearl, Emmylou, Wyatt and Ruby.

Real Estate

FROM COAST TO COUNTRY

Coastal Clarity: Luxury Downsizing Redefined

FROM POTTSVILLE to Kingscliff, the Northern Rivers coastline is experiencing a decisive shift.

The traditional sea-change buyer has been replaced by a more considered demographic: established downsizers and active retirees seeking refined, lowmaintenance coastal living - without sacrificing quality.

At the forefront of this evolution are Maddison Road, a specialist development and project marketing group, and Witheriff Group, whose business spans existing home sales, property management and a dedicated projects division. Together, the groups are delivering and marketing 15 projects across the corridor, each ranging in value from $10 million to $150 million.

Matt Nielsen of Maddison Group says the change in buyer profile is clear and consistent. “Today’s downsizer is deliberate. They’re financially secure, design-aware and focused on lifestyle. They want architectural integrity, walkability, security, and the ability to lock up and travel - but they don’t want to compromise on space or finish.”

Nick Witheriff says Witheriff Group’s diversified structure provides a unique advantage in understanding this buyer.

“Our business operates across residential sales, rentals and projects, so we see the full life cycle of property in this region. That gives us insight into how people are transitioning - from the family home into a more manageable, high-quality coastal residence.”

A Coastal Corridor Coming of Age

The Pottsville to Kingscliff stretch has

Open Homes

All times are DST unless specified. Saturday, February 29

DJ Stringer

matured into one of the most tightly held lifestyle corridors in northern NSW. Much of the demand is local. Long-term residents are choosing to downsize within the communities they know - maintaining social networks, amenities and daily rhythms.

There is strong enquiry from Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Many buyers are securing properties as lifestyle investments, with the intention of retiring to them in five to ten years. This forward planning is reshaping the way projects are designed and released.

Buyers expect thoughtful architecture, generous floor plans, lift access, secure parking and high-end finishes - all within boutique-scale developments that respect the coastal environment. Owner-occupier appeal is paramount. Nick Witheriff said that’s influencing the type of projects being delivered. “We’re not building volume product. Each project is considered in scale, design and location. Our focus is long-term liveability, which aligns with the owneroccupier market driving this region.”

Confidence in Buying Off-Plan

A significant proportion of these homes are secured off-plan - a process that can feel complex without the right guidance. For many downsizers, this is their first off-theplan purchase.

Matt Nielsen says transparency is central.

“Our role is to create clear optics around the entire journey - from plans and specifications through to contract structure and delivery time frames. When people understand the process, they can make informed decisions with confidence.”

The team operates a hands-on, concierge-

• 6/311 Golden Four Drive, Bilinga, 9–9.30am QLD Time

• 7/105 Golden Four Drive, Bilinga, 9–9.30am QLD Time

• 9/277 Golden Four Drive, Bilinga, 10–10.30am QLD Time

• 7/24 Recreation St, Tweed Heads, 12–12.30pm

• 16/19 Ivory Cres, Tweed Heads, 12–12.30pm

• 33 Inlet Drive, Tweed Heads West, 1–1.30pm

• 25/37-43 Golden Four Drive, Bilinga, 12–12.30pm QLD time

• 169 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah, 2–2.30pm

Tate Brownlee Real Estate

• 16 Lamington Way, Murwillumbah, 9–9.30am

style service model, guiding clients through floor plans, inclusions, deposit structures and projected settlement horizons. For buyers planning retirement or a staged transition, this clarity is critical.

“We’re often working with clients who are mapping out their next chapter two or three years in advance,” Matt Nielsen explains. “Engaging early gives them planning time - to prepare their existing home for sale, structure finances appropriately and secure the right residence without pressure.”

Across the Maddison Rd and Witheriff Group projects pipeline, many developments remain off-market during planning and early release phases. Access is typically offered first to database clients and qualified buyers.

“There’s a misconception that the best opportunities are found online,” Matt Nielsen says. “In reality, many of our projects are introduced quietly. Those who have an existing relationship with us are invited to exclusive briefings, pre-release allocations and launch events before the broader market even becomes aware.

Early engagement can translate into preferential pricing, broader choice of aspect and floor plan, even a degree of customisation in some projects, and the ability to secure premium positions within a development.

Witheriff Group Head of Projects Shaun Carney says the strategy isn’t about scarcity tactics; it’s about measured delivery.

• 1 Chadburn Lane, Chinderah, 9–9.30am

• 8 Glenys Street, Tweed Heads South, 9–9.30am

• 16/13 Parkland Pl, Banora Point, 10–10.30am

• 27 Tumbulgum Road, Murwillumbah, 10–10.30am

• 5 Admiralty Pl, Banora Point, 10–10.30am

• 36 Firestone Dr, Banora Point, 11–11.30am

• 29 Parkes Lane, Terranora, 12–12.30pm

• 22 Sunnycrest Dr, Terranora, 12–12.30pm

• 19 Ocean Ave, Tweed Heads South, 1–1.30pm

• 13 Cobaki Rd, Cobaki, 2–2.30pm

• 17/5 Border Drive North, Currumbin Waters, 3–3.30pm

• 76 Dulguigan Road, Dulguigan, 3–3.30pm

Raine and Horne Jet

• 166 Kunghur Creek Rd, Kunghur, 9–9.30am

• 176 Stokers Rd, Stokers Siding, 9.30–10am

• 18 Flinders Way, Ocean Shores, 10– 11am

• 629 Tumbulgum Rd, Tygalgah, 11–11.30am

“We stage releases to ensure the project evolves in a stable, considered way. It allows us to maintain quality control and respond to genuine owner-occupier demand rather than speculative momentum.”

A Trusted Partnership in a Changing Market

As the Northern Rivers continues to attract discerning downsizers and future retirees, experience and transparency have become defining qualities.

Witheriff Group’s integrated property platform spanning sales, rentals and projects - combined with Maddison Roads specialist development and project marketing expertise, provides a comprehensive pathway for buyers navigating the off-plan market.

The message from both Matt Nielsen and Nick Witheriff is measured and consistent: informed decisions build lasting confidence. In a coastal market that is evolving rapidly, clarity, early engagement and trusted guidance are proving to be the foundations of securing the next chapter in luxury coastal living.

• 7 Peter Street, Murwillumbah, 12–12.30pm

• 7/1 Castle Field Drive, Murwillumbah, 1–1.30pm First National Murwillumbah

• 145 Smiths Creek Road, Uki, 9.45–10.15am

• 223 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah, 10–10.30am

• 7083 Tweed Valley Way, Dunbible, 11–11.45am

• 129 Minnows Road, Fernvale, 12.30–1pm

Coastal Property Collective

• 2/4 Second Avenue, Tweed Heads, 10–10.30am

• 36 Bione Avenue Banora Point, 11–11.30am

Schmith Estate Agents

• 3/2 Hill Street Tweed Heads, 12–12.30

• 241 Alcorn Road Knockrow, 12–12.30pm

• 18 Panorama Drive Tweed Heads West, 1–1.30pm

The Agency

• 6 Ivory Cresent, Tweed Heads, 10–10:30am

Steeped in more than a century of history, 837 Nobbys Creek Road stands as one of the Tweed Valley’s most significant surviving original homesteads. Set on 31 acres of regenerated forest, fertile grounds and pristine spring-fed watercourses, this remarkable property blends heritage charm with exceptional lifestyle, agricultural and ecoconscious living.

A network of scenic walking tracks meanders through the forest and around the dams, all navigable on foot or via a small farm vehicle, offering endless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment.

Previously operated as a flourishing plant nursery for more than 30 years, the property is home to over 30 varieties of fruit trees, including lemons, oranges, macadamias, Davidson plums, pomegranates, finger limes, star fruit and more.

Offering unmatched privacy, natural beauty, historical importance and modern sustainability, this property represents a rare opportunity to secure one of Nobbys Creek’s most treasured rural estates.

Open Saturday 10-10:30am

Caillon Place

6 Ivory Crescent, Tweed Heads

Perfectly positioned in a quiet, tightly held street in the heart of Tweed Heads, Caillon Place is a boutique residential development now well advanced in construction and at lock-up stage. Already generating strong interest from buyers, this exclusive project is quickly emerging as one of the area’s most anticipated new addresses for low-maintenance coastal living.

With only a limited number of residences available, each home has been carefully designed to maximise light, space, and everyday functionality. Generous open-plan interiors, quality finishes, and a refined coastal aesthetic combine to create homes that appeal to downsizers, first home buyers, and investors alike. As demand continues to build, opportunities to secure a residence at Caillon Place are becoming limited.

Ideally located just moments from the Tweed River, Tweed Mall Shopping Centre, Jack Evans Boat Harbour, and the iconic beaches of Coolangatta, Caillon Place offers an exceptional lifestyle of convenience and calm. Enjoy easy access to acclaimed dining, boutique shopping, scenic walking tracks, and the Gold Coast International Airport - all just minutes from your doorstep.

With construction nearing completion and interest strong, now is the time to register your interest to secure your place in this exciting new chapter of Tweed Heads living.

Opportunities like this don’t last. Get in early and register now:

9 DAYS TIL AUCTION - 7TH MARCH 2026

Set high with sweeping Tweed Valley and mountain views, this outstanding property offers lifestyle, flexibility and long-term opportunity just 6–8 minutes from Murwillumbah. Featuring two fully approved homes, ideal for extended family, dual occupancy or income potential. The elevated main residence includes outdoor entertaining, gazebo and saltwater inground pool, while the separate approved 3-bedroom cottage is privately positioned at the base of the property.

Set on approximately 16.48 hectares (40.73 acres) with sealed driveway, bore water, sheds with power, established fruit orchard and land suited to a range of rural or lifestyle uses.

Sold as WIWO – farm enterprise or lifestyle option.

Land Size

16.48 hectares (40.73 acres)

Open Saturday 28th February 11 to 11:45am (NSW time)

AUCTION On-site

Saturday 7th March 11:30am

Anne Besgrove

Licensed Sales Agent and Station Agent 0402 608 503 anne.besgrove@fnmurwillumbah.com.au

John Besgrove

Licensed Sales Agent and Station Agent 0403 513 924

Creedence Donoghue

Sale Associate (02) 6672 7828

9 DAYS TIL AUCTION - 7TH MARCH 2026

Privately positioned and elevated at the rear of the property, this outstanding Tweed Valley acreage offers scale, water security and exceptional rural infrastructure just minutes from Murwillumbah.

• Permanent creek + 3 dams, including large spring-fed dam with pump to header tank

• Substantial two-storey residence – ideal for dual living or extended family

• Separate studio/shed plus extensive shedding and machinery storage

• 135,000L salt-water pool with beach entry and spa section

• 5+ paddocks, laneway system, horse shelters and stock yards

• 13kW solar, mains power, sealed driveway & remote gated entry

• Approx. 9–10 mins to Murwillumbah, 30 mins to the coast

A rare opportunity combining lifestyle, infrastructure and long-term flexibility in one of the Tweed Valley’s most tightly held locations.

Land Size

10.71ha (26.5 acres) clear and fenced

Open

Saturday 28th February 12:30 -1:00pm (NSW time)

AUCTION On-site

Saturday 7th March 1:00pm

Anne Besgrove

Licensed Sales Agent and Station Agent 0402 608 503 anne.besgrove@fnmurwillumbah.com.au

John Besgrove

Licensed Sales Agent and Station Agent 0403 513 924

Creedence Donoghue

Sale Associate (02) 6672 7828

ENCORE @ SALT

Kingscliff’s most prestigious beachside enclave - The Final Release of Vacant Land.

Salt Village, Tweed Coast’s benchmark coastal address - a master planned community defined by lush landscape, open coastline and a deeply connected village atmosphere.

Encore represents the final opportunity to secure vacant land within the heart of this coveted precinct. Lot sizes from 450m² to 707m² with 10 Sold and just 4 remaining.

This is the last release | There will not be another | Priced from $1,595,000

SOLIS - LUXURY LIVING

A BRAND NEW collection of 8 architecturally designed villas, elevated to capture stunning ocean & hinterland views. Here coastal calm meets refined sophistication offering a rare opportunity to enjoy expansive coastal living - without the upkeep.

Each 256m² residence offers house-sized proportions, generous dual living zones, a dedicated study, private pool, lifts, & secluded master retreat crowning upper levels.

Priced From $3,150,000 | OPEN Sat 10:30 - 11:15 NSW Time | 7-9 Elanora Ave, Pottsville

VANA - UPCOMING RELEASE

An opportunity within one of Kingscliff’s most distinguished coastal addresses.

Spanning 160m² to 325m², this limited release includes four half-floor residences, an expansive skyhome and one exceptional penthouse - each elevated to capture sweeping outlooks along Marine Parade.

DA approved, with completion late 2027, allowing time for considered planning.

Priced from $2.595m | Register to secure your position | Scan below

PIPER - BRAND NEW

Positioned 3rd floor with ocean glimpses, this refined residence offers light-filled interiors, generous balcony and open-plan living - 2 secure car spaces & ample storage.

A Brand-New boutique collection PIPER delivers effortless coastal living just steps from the sand and moments from Kingscliff’s cafés and village centre.

Designed for lock-and-leave ease or astute entry into a premier coastal address.

Priced $1,485,000 | OPEN Sat 9:00 – 9:45 NSW Time | 41 Kingscliff St, Kingscliff

Occupying the entire top floor, this 278m² full-floor residence is PIPER’s most distinguished offering - a private sanctuary suspended between ocean and hinterland.

With direct lift access and expansive glazing, the home captures dual-aspect views across living areas to terraces made for long lunches, quiet sunsets and effortless entertaining.

House-like proportions with the refinement of boutique apartment living. Priced $2,800,000 | OPEN Sat 9:00 – 9:45 NSW Time | 41 Kingscliff St, Kingscliff

Positioned on tightly held beachfront Cylinders Drive, this is the final townhouse within the exclusive Palmira collection — one of Kingscliff’s most sought-after addresses.

Designed with house-like proportions, private lift access, plus sprawling internal and external living areas. An exclusive rooftop captures breathtaking ocean views - this is downsizing without compromise.

Steps from the sand and moments to Kingscliff Village, this is refined beachfront living, defined by privacy, solid concrete construction and premium finishes.

Priced $4,250,000 | 90% Built with Sanctuary 28 | Secure Now, Move in May

They begin quietly.

In planning meetings. In early briefings. In conversations about what’s next.

Become a Friend of Maddison Rd/Witheriff Group - our private concierge community for those looking to secure luxury coastal property before it reaches the broader market.

• Priority access to pre-release and off-market projects

• Early-bird pricing opportunities

• Invitations to exclusive launch events and private briefings

• Tailored buyer matching based on your lifestyle plans

• Insight into what’s coming - before it’s announced

Whether you’re downsizing, future-proofing, or planning a lifestyle transition in the next five years, early clarity changes everything.

This isn’t about urgency, it’s about being prepared.

SCAN the QR Code, Create your profile, Discover what’s next - first.

Summerhill Close, Stokers Siding

Kyogle Road, Uki

Jacaranda Avenue, Tweed Heads West

Waterlily Close, Nunderi

Nolans Road, Stokers Siding

Dudgeon Craig Dudgeon

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BEACHFRONT RESIDENCE - enjoy the lifestyle'

Immerse yourself into an idyllic lifestyle from this generous 230m2 (3) bedroom + study apartment, which commands a superb ocean vista and has been meticulously modernised throughout.

• Spacious air-conditioned open plan living w/ easy care flooring

• Expansive terrace style covered balcony w/ storage nook & water connection

• Stunning social kitchen w/ granite benches, built in microwave, two-pac cabinetry & soft closing draws

• Master bedroom, w/ air-conditioning, walk in robe, additional built-in robes & access to balcony

• Bedrooms 2 & 3 offer built in robes w/ bedroom 2 providing a Juliette balcony

• Study / home office or ideal for guest room / 4th bedroom

• Stylish fully tiled main bathroom w/ freestanding bath & walk through shower

• Large laundry

• Two car parking & storage within basement

• Resort style pool & heated spa

• Lift access

• Pet friendly

TRANQUIL WATERFRONT LIVING - Greenbank Island'

Immerse yourself into a healthy way of life from this solid first level 2-bedroom lifestyle unit, commanding splendid water views across rolling lawns of the ever-changing Tweed River.

• Spacious air-conditioned living

• Well-appointed kitchen w/ vinyl plank flooring & modern appliances

• Enclosed sunroom / balcony overlooking the Tweed River

• Main & second bedrooms w/ built in robes

• Large fully tiled bathroom w/ combined laundry, includes washer & dryer

• Single lock up garage