TVW28May26MA001-1

Three Tweed ambulance stations shutdown

By Jo Kennett

TWEED HEADS Ambulance Station has been shutdown due to dangerous levels of mould, after the NSW Health Services Union (HSU) officials issued a stop work order, with Murwillumbah and Pottsville stations also shutting down, though NSW Ambulance (NSWA) officials say service will not be affected.

The Ambulance Division of the union posted an ‘urgent’ safety notice to “all ADHSU members working in and around Tweed” saying that dangerous levels of mould were present “throughout the Tweed Heads Ambulance Station.”

“Tweed Heads station is closed until further notice,” the notice read.

“No worker or visitor (NSWA member of staff, or contractor) should enter the Tweed Heads Station for any reason until the Cease Work Directive is lifted by the HSR.

“dangerous levels of mould were present throughout the Ambulance Station”

“NSWA is now required to inform all staff, visitors and contractors in the area of the presence of the cease work directive.

“The directive requires paramedics and other staff to start and finish from the BCP approved Kingscliff Station as opposed to the Banora Fire Station, which is not able to safely accommodate the number of paramedics required to work out of it.

“Staff attempting to start and or finish at Tweed Heads station will be deprived of the facilities for the welfare of workers, including access to toilets and hand-washing facilities.”

The directive stated that work could only recommence at the station once the mould had been removed and it was assessed to be safe for workers.

Workers took to social media to congratulate the union representative on the shutdown, one person saying it was “huge” and others saying it was “brilliant” and “great work” from the official.

A NSW Ambulance spokesperson told the Weekly, “We want to reassure the Tweed Heads, Pottsville and Murwillumbah communities that if they call Triple Zero (000) with a medical emergency, NSW Ambulance will be there to respond.”

“Paramedics are a mobile workforce and can effectively respond to patients across NSW, regardless of whether they are located at a hospital, an ambulance station, or another location,” the spokesperson said.

In April and May 2026, NSW Ambulance consulted with staff following the detection of mould at Pottsville, Tweed Heads and Murwillumbah ambulance stations.

“The health and safety of our staff is paramount. We will continue to work with professional services and occupational hygienists to ensure all three stations remain safe,” the spokesperson said.

“Mould can occur in any complex building, including ambulance stations. When mould is detected, it is reported, assessed and safely treated, based on rigorous procedures, to ensure staff safety.

“We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness in all our facilities, with particular attention to the timely identification and remediation of mould in accordance with strict infection control protocols.”

Pottsville Ambulance Station

“Surface mould was detected on the air conditioning unit and ceilings,” the NSW Ambulance spokesperson said.

“As a precautionary measure, NSW Ambulance has temporarily relocated Pottsville staff to Kingscliff Ambulance Station, while cleaning and remediation works are underway.

“Staff begin and end their shifts at Kingscliff and have access to a standby point at Pottsville Rural Fire Station, in line with standard business continuity arrangements.”

Tweed Heads Ambulance Station

“Tweed Heads Ambulance Station is currently undergoing cleaning and remediation works after a small amount of surface mould was detected around air conditioning duct outlets,” the spokesperson said.

“A Health and Safety representative issued a cease work directive on May 6, 2026.

“While it was deemed safe for staff to continue starting and finishing shifts at Tweed Heads Ambulance Station, NSW Ambulance made appropriate temporary alternative work arrangements as a precautionary measure.

“Staff temporarily started and finished their shifts at Kingscliff Ambulance Station.

“Following consultation with staff and the Health Services Union, staff resumed starting and finishing shifts at Tweed Heads Ambulance Station within the week.

“During shifts, crews operate from Banora Point Fire Station as a staging point, in line with standard business continuity arrangements.”

Murwillumbah Ambulance Station

“Mould was identified in a room that had been affected by a water leak,” the NSW Ambulance spokesperson said.

“This was isolated to one room, which has been closed off to staff.

“Surface mould has also been identified on the air conditioning ducts, and as a precaution, this has been shut down, with temporary air conditioning installed.

“External works relating to water ingress, drainage, roof repairs, and gutter maintenance are being undertaken by contractors.

“Staff remain based at Murwillumbah Ambulance Station and will be temporarily relocated while the internal cleaning and remediation works are carried out, which is expected to begin in June.”

Pottsville Ambulance Station is also closed due to mould

CONGRATULATIONS

LOUISE JOHNSON

You

Sanitiser cutbacks

Disappointing, given the flu jabs have been available for weeks, to find some local supermarkets have abandoned disinfectant trolley wipes and hand sanitisers.

Could be worse – there could be an outbreak of diptheria… oh!

And as for lack of checkout staff, well perhaps it’s my fault for shopping.

Peter Barnes, Tweed Heads West Salvos Red Shield Appeal – please help

Across Australia, the sight of the Red Shield appearing outside local shops, and worn proudly by volunteers in their communities marks a special moment each year, a reminder that it’s time for Australians to come together to support those doing it tough.

On the weekend of May 30 and 31, The Salvation Army’s official Red Shield Appeal collection weekend will once again see thousands of volunteers take to streets, shopping centres and local communities across the country, raising vital funds for Australians in need.

This year, the need has never been more urgent.

New Salvation Army research has revealed the devastating impact the cost-of-living crisis is having on families across the nation. Parents and children are going without food, and alarmingly families are struggling to even afford to take their children to the doctor when needed.

Every day, The Salvation Army is supporting people facing homelessness, financial hardship, family and domestic violence, addiction, loneliness and crisis. Last year alone, through our network of more than 2,000 services across Australia, the Salvos provided assistance to one person every 17 seconds. But none of this happens without the generosity of the Australian community.

The Red Shield Appeal is more than

a fundraiser; it is communities helping communities. Whether it is dropping a few dollars into a collection bucket, tapping your card, volunteering your time, making an online donation or simply spreading the word, every contribution helps provide hope to someone who needs it most.

Importantly, funds raised locally stay local, directly supporting people and families in your own community who are struggling right now.

This year, The Salvation Army is aiming to raise $41 million nationally to continue delivering critical support services across the country. We know times are tough for many Australians, but if you are able to give, your support can make a life-changing difference.

So when you see a Salvos volunteer across the Red Shield Appeal weekend of May 30 and 31, please stop for a moment, say hello and support this important cause however you can.

Together, we can be the hope our communities desperately need right now.

To donate or volunteer for The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal or if you need support from the Salvos, visit salvationarmy.org.au or call 13 SALVOS. You can also donate at any Salvos Store.

Lieutenant-Colonel Paul Hately, The Salvation Army secretary for communications Address social problems first before new builds

I was just looking at the proposal for increased development of Pottsville (TVW, May 21, page 5).

That made me feel motivated to comment on the fact that any further increase in development of the coastal areas of the Tweed Shire would not help with the current social problems being experienced there.

In my opinion these communities need to address the social problems being experienced at this time before any further housing or commercial development is given a green light.

Further development will not help the current situation. Will it?

Louise Johnson, Pottsville Farmer responds to Rural Housing Strategy comments

I would like to respond to comments made by Mayor Chris Cherry and Councillor Nola Firth regarding rural housing proposals currently being considered through the Tweed Growth Management and Housing Strategy.

The mayor stated that farmers can already build additional rural workers’ dwellings under the current planning framework. Technically, that is true. In practice, however, the overwhelming majority of farming families cannot meet the restrictive eligibility tests tied to income. The pathway is also expensive and complicated that it is effectively unusable for most genuine family farms.

The mayor has been made aware of this historically on multiple occasions.

This is precisely why NSW Farmers and rural communities across the state have been pushing for reform through the recent Rural Housing Inquiry.

Farmers are not asking for uncontrolled development.

We are asking for a practical and workable pathway that reflects the realities of modern coastal farming.

Councillor Firth also raised concerns about environmental impacts and biodiversity loss from additional rural housing. Across the Tweed and Northern Rivers we are seeing environmental degradation occur right now because rural land holders increasingly lack the financial and labour resources needed to manage invasive weeds and environmental pressures. You don’t have to travel far to see land holders who have given up!

Camphor laurel, lantana, devil’s fig and tropical soda apple are spreading rapidly across rural land.

In many cases these invasive species are out competing productive pasture and native ecosystems alike.

Governments are simply not providing enough resources to control these infestations, leaving the burden to private landholders.

What Councillor Firth fears and has no practical solutions for, is already happening.

Without stronger farm incomes and greater flexibility, many farming families cannot keep up with the enormous costs of weed control, fencing, creek restoration, erosion management and pest control.

When farms become financially stretched, weeds spread, fences deteriorate, and creek systems decline. That trend is already visible across parts of our region.

Additional rural housing can help provide the human and/or financial resources needed to better manage the land.

Whether through supplementary income, intergenerational living arrangements, attracting casual labour, or allowing retired family members to remain involved on the property, additional dwellings can strengthen farm viability and improve environmental outcomes at the same time.

People living and working on the land every day can plainly see that if farms continue to lose economic viability, environmental outcomes will worsen, not improve.

Strong farming businesses remain one of the best protections for healthy rural landscapes.

Importantly, one additional dwelling on existing rural land is also far less damaging than continued urban sprawl onto productive farmland.

Farmers are simply asking for sensible reforms that allow families to remain viable, continue caring for the land and support the next generation staying in rural communities.

Craig Huf, Chair of the NSW Farmers Association Tweed Branch

Carols in the Park donation

For the past two years Carols in the Park has been brought to the Murwillumbah community by the Combined Services Clubs of Murwillumbah: Murwillumbah Lions Club, Rotary Club of Murwillumbah, Rotary Club of Murwillumbah Central and Rotary Club of Mt Warning AM.

It provides an opportunity for the local community to come together at a free community event, to celebrate Christmas and the year that has been.

Feedback from attendees has been nothing but positive and we are striving to ensure that the event can continue for years to come.

Of course, this great free event would not be possible without our wonderful local sponsors, our performers, and of course, the volunteers from the committee, the clubs, and the community at large.

We are extremely grateful to each and every one of you. When this event began two years ago, we made it known to our sponsors that if there were any funds remaining after payment of all event expenses, such funds would be donated to local charities.

The Combined Services Clubs of Murwillumbah are excited to be able to make a donation of $2,000 this year to Tweed Palliative Support and Wedgetail Retreat.

Peter McDonald, Carols in the Park coordinator, Murwillumbah

State could bypass DA process

By Jonathon Howard

MAYOR CHRIS Cherry has warned that proposed NSW Government planning reforms could shut communities out of the development process and threaten the future viability of farming and the environment across the Tweed.

Mayor Cherry moved a Mayoral Minute during council’s monthly meeting last week, calling for a council submission opposing key aspects of the proposed reforms because of the “massive potential to block out the community’s voice”.

The concerns relate to a discussion paper released by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure exploring new assessment pathways for low-rise housing developments across the state.

Under the proposed changes, some lowrise and rural housing developments, including detached dual occupancies, could potentially be approved as “Complying Development” rather than through the traditional Development Application (DA) process overseen by councils.

“The changes mean that if you are building one and two storey development you can go through a pathway of complying development rather than going through a DA,” Cr Cherry said.

“This means that your neighbour can get approval to build a house next door to you or your boundary, without you even knowing about it.”

Cr Cherry said removing the DA process would strip local communities of their ability to raise concerns about developments that could impact neighbouring properties or agricultural operations.

“It means that the community, through council, would have no say and obviously

land-use conflict issues, where farming practices could be impacted by having a house next door, could really threaten the viability of farms,” she said.

She said council’s draft Growth Management and Housing Strategy had attempted to balance increased housing supply with the protection of rural land and environmentally sensitive areas.

“These changes to the Code would take away those considerations and stop people from being able to object if something is blocking your sunshine, blocking your view or putting a noisy air conditioner next to your bedroom,” Cr Cherry said.

“We have given a commitment as a council to allow additional rural housing but ensure there is a net environmental benefit from doing so. These changes make it impossible to fulfill that promise.”

Council has also warned the reforms could significantly weaken local environmental protections by limiting the ability to impose site-specific conditions such as revegetation, habitat restoration and landscape design requirements through

merit-based assessments.

The Tweed, which has the highest biodiversity of any shire in NSW, relies heavily on local planning controls to balance development with environmental conservation.

A council spokesperson said the shire had a responsibility to protect its environmental values while still delivering much-needed housing.

The NSW Government argues the reforms are aimed at streamlining approvals, simplifying planning pathways and creating more consistent outcomes for low-risk housing developments as part of efforts to address the state’s housing shortage.

The NSW Government’s discussion paper and frequently asked questions are now available for feedback until 5pm on Wednesday, June 24, via: https://tinyurl. com/6nmzkykj

YOUR THOUGHTS: Share your views on the development application process and whether it should or shouldn’t bypass council’s DA process? Please email: editor@theweekly.net.au

NSW Premier Chris Minns demonstrating the many layers of the current DA process

Tumbulgum Hall to reopen

THE HISTORIC Tumbulgum Hall will officially reopen this weekend following almost 12 months of renovations designed to improve the much-loved community building’s resilience.

The celebration, hosted by the Tumbulgum Community Association, will feature a free family-friendly program on Saturday, giving residents the chance to reconnect with the hall and reflect on its 113-year history at the heart of village life.

Tumbulgum Community Association president Jenny Kidd said the community was thrilled to welcome hirers and visitors back into the upgraded hall.

“We are delighted to have hirers back in the hall after almost 12 months of renovation,” Ms Kidd said.

“It is certainly looking smarter and more resilient.”

The hall upgrade included extensive restoration and flood-resilience works following years of weather impacts in the flood-prone village.

Originally established as a Literary Institute in 1913, the heritage-listed hall has long served as a focal point for community gatherings, events,

commemorations and social activities in the village.

To accommodate the reopening celebrations, Tweed Shire Council will temporarily close a section of Government Road between Riverside Drive and the playground from 2pm to 6pm on Saturday for public safety.

Parking will be available on the grassed area near the pump station at the opposite end of Government Road.

Organisers are encouraging residents, former hall users and visitors to attend the free event and celebrate the return of one of the Tweed Valley’s most historic community landmarks.

Car ends up in river

TWEED VALLEY Way was briefly closed on Tuesday, May 26, after a vehicle had accidentally rolled into the Tweed River in South Murwillumbah.

The incident is believed to have taken place at around 6.30am when the vehicle was parked on the riverbank and has somehow rolled into the water down a steep embankment.

Police were unable to provde details around the incident but said they were alerted by the owners and no one was injured or inside the vehicle.

A witness told The Weekly they saw the

vehicle roll slowly into the river over a steep embankment.

A recovery effort was expected to take place this week to remove the vehicle, which was about two metres from the embankment.

Less rough sleepers

By Jo Kennett

THE 2026 Statewide Street Count, which ran from February 23 to March 19, has revealed encouraging improvements in homelessness in the Tweed Valley, with fewer people sleeping rough following targeted investment and coordinated support.

There were 155 people sleeping rough in the Tweed Valley when the 2025 count was undertaken, but this year that number had dropped to 115, or 37 less people found to be sleeping rough.

That’s a drop of 25.8 per cent, which is good news, with similar improvements across the North Coast including the Ballina, Lismore, Byron and Clarence Valley shires.

The bad news is that, despite the reductions, the number of people sleeping rough in NSW has risen by five per cent over the past year as the housing crisis continues, with 2,308 people recorded in 2026, the majority living in vehicles.

The biggest regional increases were identified in Coffs Harbour, Port Macquarie, the Hunter and Central Coast, while the largest increase in Greater Sydney was seen in the Inner West.

The Minns Labor Government has launched NSW’s first whole-of-government strategy to end homelessness, supported by record investment in housing and support services in the NSW Homelessness Strategy 2025–2035.

Through the $6.6 billion Building Homes for NSW program, the government will deliver 8,400 public homes, 21,000 affordable homes, repair 30,000 homes and invest $527.6 million in homelessness services.

Rental reforms include banning no-grounds evictions and limiting rent increases.

“These results really shine a light on how our targeted intervention can reduce rough sleeping,” Minister for Homelessness Rose Jackson said.

“The data tells us that a lack of affordable housing and high cost of living are the most common drivers of homelessness, which is exactly why the NSW Government is laser-focused on building more homes as quickly as possible.”

The Homelessness Innovation Fund has already delivered 800 rooms, while the $130 million Building Crisis Housing Plan will add 200 crisis accommodation beds by 2029. 338 locations were identified where there was evidence of street homelessness (such as makeshift camps, sleeping bags or personal belongings) but no people were present to be counted.

This is compared to 256 in 2025.

Outside of the City of Sydney LGA, approximately 58 per cent of people counted were in vehicles and 16 per cent were in open spaces. Another 18 per cent of people were in makeshift dwellings and 8 per cent were in public roofed spaces.

The number of people sleeping rough has slightly eased in the Tweed Valley, but help is still needed

Tumbulgum Hall is an icon of the Tweed and one that holds a lot of history

Tweed Heads Medicare Urgent Care Clinic

100% BULK BILLED

OPEN 7 DAYS WITH EXTENDED OPERATING HOURS

7AM to 9PM

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

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

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

Federal Member for Richmond

By Jo Kennett

BIG SWELL slammed the Tweed Coast over the weekend after a powerful East Coast Low pressure system formed off the coast, generating strong winds and wild seas.

Fortunately damage to the beaches, apart from a lot of plastics and debris washing in, was limited by smaller tides.

Northern NSW Lifeguard Coordinator Scott McCartney said waves were six to eight feet high as forecast but there were a couple of things that saved the damage from being worse.

“It was pretty rough,” Scott said.

“Even the shark buoy at Kingscliff washed in and that hasn’t happened since the cyclone swell last year.

“The north side surf club beaches were a bit protected by the headlands so had a bit less swell but south beaches like Salt, Casuarina, Hastings Point and all those more open beaches were quite large.

“I had a look around at the damage Sunday afternoon and the water was coming up quite high into the beach tracks at Kingscliff, up to the erosion line. I haven’t seen the back beaches but at Kingscliff it hasn’t smashed it too bad.

“It was powerful, the water itself but maybe the tides weren’t as high or it wasn’t pushing in on the damage where we get the most damage. “

With over a week to go until the full moon, the highest tides in the evenings were only around 1.5 metres (a big king tide can be 2 metres) when the main swell hit so the erosion that might be expected with such big seas

“there was a lot of debris and swell”

was minor.

“If you looked out to sea it pushed past a lot because it was a quite southerly swell as well,” Scott said.

“Most of our beaches are on a bit of an angle so we’re kind of lucky.

“The top end of the Gold Coast, like Surfers, it might hit that pretty hard, and it’s already in a world of trouble with erosion up there.”

All the Tweed Coast beaches were closed.

“Obviously there was a lot of debris and swell,” he said.

“There were still people that were keen to get out there.

“I went down to see the lifeguards at Kingscliff (on Sunday) and there were a few surfers out in the afternoon but I wouldn’t advise it with all the sticks and logs rolling around from the south beaches and the murky water as well.

“There was a lot of runoff from the creeks and rivers so there’s a lot of fish hanging around the river and creek mouths so surfing in those areas would certainly heighten the risk of shark encounters.”

Luckily most people were smart enough to stay out of the water.

“Generally when the swell gets up like that and it’s warm enough we do get called out (for rescues) unfortunately but this weekend we were pleasantly surprised that we didn’t have to do anything which was great,”

Scott said.

“Sometimes tow surfers get a bit stuck when there is a lot of swell.

“99 per cent of the boys know what they are doing but then a few of the boys decide to buy a jet ski and follow suit and get themselves into some tricky situations.”

There has been a lot of pumicestone, which originates from underwater volcanic activity in the Pacific Ring of Fire (from islands like Tonga and Fiji), sticks and plastics washed up on Tweed beaches with the swell.

Local nature lovers have been out cleaning up the plastic rubbish and are calling on residents to grab a rubbish bag and spend a bit of time cleaning before plastics are swallowed by marine life.

“You travel around the world and our beaches are quite clean,” Scott said.

“That sort of rubbish is generally washed out from creeks and rivers.

“The trees floating around are being knocked down with erosion but things like fence posts and fence line debris is definitely coming from the river.”

Swimmers are warned to be careful once the swell subsides.

“When this swell disappears there will be a lot more sand close to shore so that will generate a lot more rips and currents that weren’t there before the swells,” Scott said.

“Some of the locals might think they are familiar with conditions but they need to be aware of that.

“There has been a lot of sand movement so there will be new rips popping up once people think it’s safe to start swimming again.”

Unfortunately the bad weather is set to continue, with a trough moving across from South Australia bringing widespread rains this week, but that rain is desperately needed west of the divide.

Get ready to rug up once it passes at the end of the week, as behind it are strong westerly winds bringing cold, dry conditions with the swell finally drops down to a more manageable level.

The low pressure system generated powerful swell. Big seas at Hastings Point, Saturday, May 23

DV, theft charges

OVER THE week from May 13 to 20, 13 males and two females were charged with domestic violence related offences.

Offences including intentionally choking a person with recklessness, contravening an apprehended violence orders (11 incidents), and stalking and intimidation.

A 56-year-old male from Tweed Heads was charged with sexual assault, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and contravening a domestic apprehended violence order arising from an incident in August 2025.

Another person was charged with obscene exposure.

14 charges were laid for property offences, stolen motor vehicles, shoplifting, larceny, and possessing goods suspected of being stolen.

A 45-year-old male from Tweed Heads West was charged with graffiti after allegedly being detected defacing one of the painted walls of the Information Centre on Wharf Street. He is due to appear at the Tweed Heads Local Court on June 1, 2026.

A 33-year-old male with no fixed address in the Murwillumbah area was charged after allegedly breaking into a unit complex in Casuarina, cutting a chain securing an e-bike, and stealing the e-bike while leaving behind a pedal-powered bicycle.

Qld teen chase charges

FIVE MALE teenagers from Queensland were arrested and charged with numerous offences in New South Wales after a vehicle stolen from Tallebudgera on May 14, 2026, was detected speeding along Tweed Coast Road.

A police pursuit continued north along the M1 Pacific Motorway at Chinderah, during which items allegedly thrown from the stolen vehicle cracked the windscreen of a police vehicle.

All five occupants were arrested, with one conveyed to hospital for a serious foot injury.

Police allege none of the occupants held full driver’s licences, with the driver only holding a learner’s licence. The driver remains in custody and is due to appear before the Tweed Heads Local Court on June 24, 2026, for sentencing.

A 47-year-old female from Bogangar was charged with negligent driving occasioning grievous bodily harm and failing to stop and assist after an impact causing injury following an incident along Tweed Coast Road in late April.

After both drivers stopped to exchange details, the female’s vehicle rolled forward, pinning the other driver between the vehicles.

A bystander entered the woman’s vehicle to free the trapped male before the female allegedly re-entered her vehicle and left the scene.

She is due to appear at the Tweed Heads Local Court on June 29, 2026.

Between May 13 and May 21, 47 traffic related offences were laid by local police.

That included driving while disqualified (all 4 were repeat offenders) or suspended (5), never having held a licence (3) driving under the influence of drugs (4) or with a prescribed concentration of alcohol (7), police

pursuit (2), displaying false plates (2), not having an interlock device fitted (1), and negligent driving (3).

Drug lab bust

A 43-YEAR-OLD male from Tweed Heads South was arrested and charged with five serious offences, including knowingly dealing with the proceeds of crime, large commercial quantity supply of prohibited drugs, and unauthorised possession of a firearm.

Police executed a search warrant at his premises, allegedly locating a large amount of cash, significant quantities of drugs, and a firearm.

Specialist police and Fire and

Rescue NSW attended due to the presence of a drug laboratory. Simultaneous search warrants were also executed in Queensland.

The male was refused bail and appeared before the Parramatta Bail Court on May 22.

Over the past week Tweed Byron Police arrested seven people charged for drug offences, including offences for possessing steroids and other restricted substances.

Drink drivers

A 56-YEAR-OLD male from Murwillumbah was sentenced to a six-month term of imprisonment to be served

as an intensive correction order at the Murwillumbah Local Court on May 20, 2026.

The man had been arrested at South Murwillumbah in mid-April for drink driving after telling police he had consumed alcohol the night before. He returned a mid-range prescribed concentration of alcohol reading of 0.098.

In sentencing, the court ordered the male to complete 100 hours of community service, abstain from alcohol as a condition of the intensive correction order, and disqualified him from driving before placing him on the alcohol interlock program.

A 51-year-old male from Murwillumbah appeared before the Murwillumbah Local Court on April 20, in

relation to mid-range drink driving and driving while disqualified.

Police arrested the man in December 2025 after he allegedly attached false number plates to his utility vehicle to avoid detection for driving without a licence.

He returned a positive reading of 0.144, which is almost three times the legal limit.

The court noted the use of false plates to evade police and the breach of an existing court-ordered disqualification.

He was sentenced to 12 months imprisonment, with a non-parole period of seven months, and was further disqualified from driving.

Calling out domestic violence

By Jonathon Howard

SEVERAL BRAVE and determined women have spoken out about the shocking domestic violence (DV) taking place locally.

The statistics are alarming for the Tweed and Byron shires with violence and coercive control and “emotional entrapment” — the women are urging others not to suffer in silence and to repot DV.

The women visited The Weekly office recently but must remain anonymous stating they were “too frightened to publicly identify themselves for fear of retaliation or further abuse” — a reality they say highlights the depth of what victim-survivors continue to live with every day. Their decision to speak anony -

mously remains an act of courage as many women and men fear social isolation, intimidation, financial control or threats involving children and family members.

“The abuse against women and men in our community is shocking, to say the least,” one of the women stressed.

“Your readers do not know the half of what is taking place on a regular basis behind closed doors or even in public, with women and men are being beaten or controlled.”

The women laid bare some of the horrific acts against people with photos of the abuse and stories that are too shocking to print.

The women said the suffering is not being reported by the media and there’s a need for the community to undertake a consorted effort to stop

Domestic violence consistently accounted for between 25 and 33% of all offences

the silencing of victims.

“Coercive control is often misunderstood because it can occur without physical violence, instead involving patterns of manipulation, surveillance, isolation and domination,” one woman said.

“That can include restricting access to children, finances such as bank accounts and even things like your phone, clothing or food.”

The examples include limiting who a partner can speak to, controlling a diet, religious practices or even restricting eye contact, and cutting victims off from friends, family and support networks.

The women said maintaining strong social connections could be a victim’s only lifeline, but the public can also help by reporting abuse.

“One of the biggest warning signs is isolation,” one woman said.

“They slowly cut you off from people who care about you. That’s why it’s so important women and men keep a social network and know there is always a way out.”

Another woman urged neighbours, friends and relatives not to ignore warning signs.

“If someone calls and says they need help, please be there for them,” she said.

“People shouldn’t feel ashamed about reporting domestic violence. Sometimes a neighbour or friend speaking up could save someone’s life.”

From publicly available reports alone, the end of 2025 and current five months of 2026, there were at least: 82 reported DV-related offences and 55 people charged with DV-related matters.

This is only a partial tally based on a limited number of publicly accessible weekly police updates and media summaries, meaning the real number across the full period could be higher.

Several of the reports noted do mestic violence consistently ac counted for between 25 per cent and 33 per cent of all offences recorded in the Tweed/Byron Po lice District during those weeks.

The DV statistics are shocking

A review of publicly reported weekly updates and media summa ries linked to the Tweed/Byron Police District reveals a shockingly high number of domestic violence-related incidents and charges being reported across the Tweed and Byron shires.

offences made up more than a quarter of arrests, including eight assault charges linked to domestic violence.

• * Ma y 12, 2026: 14 DV-related offences involving 8 people charged.

• * November 2025 weekly update: 10 people charged with domestic violence-related offences, including AVO breaches, assaults and intimidation.

Coercive control law reform is helping

Major legal reform has happened, with coercive control made a criminal offence in NSW from July 1, 2024.

The laws recognise repeated patterns of abusive behaviour designed to intimidate, dominate or control a current or former intimate partner.

The NSW Government states coercive control can involve physical or non-physical abuse intended to scare, threaten, isolate or manipulate another person.

• Week ending* April 15, 2026: 24 DV-related offences involving 13 people charged.

• * March 25, 2026: 16 DV-related offences involving 9 people charged.

• * March 17, 2026: 28 DV-related offences involving 15 people charged.

• * Mar ch 4, 2026: DV-related

The laws were introduced following years of campaigning by victim-survivors and advocates, with research linking coercive control to many domestic violence homicides.

The NSW Domestic Violence Death Review Team found coercive and controlling behaviours were present in 97 per cent of intimate partner domestic violence homicides reviewed.

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, NSW Police recorded 297 coercive control

incidents between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025, with more than 90 per cent of victim-survivors being women.

Police are taking action

The women interviewed by The Weekly said they welcomed the stronger police presence and recent domestic violence crackdowns across the Tweed and state, saying it provided reassurance to many victims that police are acting.

“The police are doing what they can,” the women agreed.

“We also acknowledge the increased presence of police officers across both the valley and coast, as well as Tweed Heads to respond quicker to violent offenders.”

The women said one of the biggest concerns raised were housing shortages in the Tweed and Byron shires, which means a lack of emergency accommodation, limited long-term counselling services and fears offenders are sometimes released back into the community while victims remain displaced and traumatised.

“The loss and grief run very deep,” the wom en said.

“Women shouldn’t have to feel isolated or trapped because they have nowhere to go.

“Some women have been moved out of the area for housing which separates them from their family, children and social networks, while the men or women abusers remain in the community.”

Others questioned whether the region needs more communi ty-led domestic violence support groups where women and men can safely share experiences, access information and support one another.

“We know how hard it can be to come forward and break the routine of abuse, but you can find help and

“it provided reassurance to many victims that police are acting”

start to rebuild your life,” the group stressed. The women wanted to highlight that people learn the early signs of coercive control and understand that abuse is not always physical.

Legal Aid NSW states coercive control can include monitoring, stalking, harassment, humiliation, manipulation, intimidation and

Police and support services continue to encourage victim-survivors and witnesses to report domestic violence incidents and seek assistance early.

Support is available through NSW Police, local domestic violence services and the national 24-hour support service

Please report cases of domestic violence and do not suffer in silence by phone to the Tweed Heads Police Station on (07) 5506 9499 – remember if you are in immediate danger dial 000 (triple

Nicole does Tweed proud

By Jo Kennett

NSW MARINE Rescue Point Danger volunteer

Nicole Lockie has been awarded the Emergency Services Medal (ESM), recognising her distinguished service in a ceremony at Government House Queensland on Thursday, May 14.

The Governor of Queensland, Her Excellency the Hon Dr Jeannette Young, presented the award to Nicole, who has been a Marine Rescue NSW Point Danger volunteer for 28 years.

Nicole was honoured “for distinguished service as a member of an Australian emergency service providing meritorious service to the community as a volunteer of Marine Rescue NSW and Marine Rescue Queensland.

“As a highly experienced coxswain conducting complex and high-risk rescues often in dark and dangerous conditions through unwavering commitment to the safety, welfare and mentorship of fellow volunteers and as a leader and role model for female volunteers whose dedication has advanced capability, inclusion, and life-saving outcomes within Marine Rescue services.”

As Nicole went back to her seat after receiving the award, one of the dignitaries at the ceremony, Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery and Volunteers Ann Leahy MP, piped up with a story which had the governor and attendees laughing.

“I rolled my boat in 2008 on the Tweed Bar,” the woman announced to the room.

“I had to dive and rescue my dog but I didn’t drown my dog because that wouldn’t be cool.

“Nicole and her crew came and pulled my boat in and took me back to safety so I’m thrilled to see Nicole win this award.”

Nicole joined Air Sea Rescue in 1995 after hearing about it through her scuba diving connections, when the organisation was still a small search-and-rescue operation run by a few pilots from a Tweed River boatshed.

She started as crew, earned her commercial coxswain qualification in 1998, became a skip-

per around 2000, and was among the first female coxswains in both NSW and Queensland.

“The whole unit is very proud of Nicole, her commitment, dedication, and very well deserved recognition and awarded ESM,” NSW Marine Rescue Point Danger Unit Commander Aaron Ashley told The Weekly.

“She was also selected by MRNSW as the only female member to be put forward and participate in the International Maritime Rescue Federation (IMRF) Woman In SAR (Search and Rescue) training program.

“It is an opportunity and program run by IMRF to get women together from maritime rescue organisations from across the world for training.

“This year it’s in the Netherlands KNRM, the Royal Netherlands Sea Rescue, in August.

“Nicole is a very dedicated volunteer, actively involved in search and rescue exercises, delivering training courses and training many, many crew over the years.”

Nicole receiving her award from Qld Governor General Jeanette Young recently

Golden Nugget event

By Jonathon Howard

SOME OF the world’s best young lawn bowlers will converge on the Tweed next month as the prestigious Junior Golden Nugget returns to Club Tweed for its 23rd annual tournament.

The highly regarded junior event will take place on July 25 and 26, featuring 48 emerging stars, 24 boys and 24 girls, from across Australia, along with international competitors from Hong Kong, China and New Zealand.

Widely recognised as one of Australia’s premier junior lawn bowls tournaments, the Junior Golden Nugget has become a launching pad for future elite players, with several past competitors progressing to national and international success.

Among this year’s players to watch is Zoe Davis, who is aiming to go one better after finishing runner-up in 2025, while Harry Coleman will also be looking to improve on his second-place finish from last year.

Murwillumbah Public School

Local hopes will rest heavily on Lilly Vardy, Club Tweed’s own rising talent and a three-time Queensland Under-18 Singles champion. The 17-year-old is hoping to better her third-place finish from the previous tournament.

The event’s honour roll includes some of the biggest names in Australian bowls, including Corey Wedlock, Dylan Fisher, Nick Cahill and Ellen Fife.

Club Tweed Bowls Coordinator Emma Boyd said the event continued to grow in both quality and reputation.

“This is one of the most exciting events to coordinate each year,” Ms Boyd said. “The friendships, talent and eagerness these young players bring is a credit to their families and clubs.”

Spectators will be able to attend the tournament free of charge, with organisers encouraging the community to come along and witness the next generation of bowls stars in action across what promises to be a high-quality weekend of competition.

A Wonderful Start to Learning at MPS Kindergarten

At Murwillumbah Public School, Kindergarten is an exciting and engaging place where every child is encouraged to learn, grow and shine. Our students love coming to school each day, with regular theme days and special events designed to make learning fun and memorable. Each week focuses on a new initial sound, brought to life through hands-on activities, creative lessons and meaningful experiences. Recently, students celebrated World Bee Day with reading, writing and even a cooking activity, creating lasting memories while developing important literacy skills.

Our dedicated Kindergarten teachers work hard to create a caring and stimulating environment where children feel safe, supported and excited to learn. Through daily small-group reading and numeracy sessions, students receive personalised support as they develop strong foundations in reading, writing and counting.

Beyond the classroom, students enjoy weekly library, music and technology lessons, providing opportunities to explore their interests and develop con dence in a range of areas. Kindergarten students also take pride in participating in school and community events, with exciting opportunities to perform throughout the year, including the upcoming Murwillumbah Festival of Performing Arts.

At MPS, we believe learning should be engaging, supportive and joyful. Our Kindergarten classrooms are lled with curiosity, creativity and connection, making MPS a wonderful place for children to begin their learning journey. We warmly welcome new families to discover all that our school has to offer. We are currently taking enrolments for 2027. Please contact our school for more information about our transition to school program.

Local favourite Lilly Vardy has her sights set on the Golden Nugget this year

Last years winners - Bianca Szeto (Hong Kong, China) and Travis Moran (NSW)

Brand new $723.3m Tweed Valley Hospital opened 2024

Free carparking

42 Emergency Department treatment spaces

An interventional cardiology service

Integrated cancer care service with radiotherapy and PET-CT

Dedicated training and research facilities

Rainforest conservation offer

Do you have good condition native rainforest on your land? Would you like to protect it for future generations?

Could an annual payment, paid whatever the seasonal conditions, help you achieve your goals?

The NSW Biodiversity Conservation Trust's 'Rainforest conservation offer' is your opportunity to protect important native habitat on your land, forever. The Trust is hosting in-person information sessions in June. Book a time with the local team who can answer your questions on the offer:

• Murwillumbah - Community Centre, 2 June,

sessions available from 9 am to 4 pm

• Byron Bay – Cavanbah Centre, 3 June, sessions available from 9 am to 4 pm

• Kyogle - Community Centre, 16 June, sessions available from 9 am to 4 pm

• Alstonville - Summerland Farm, 17 June, sessions available from 9 am to 4 pm

To learn more about the offer and register for an in-person session, visit nsw.gov.au/bct-rainforest or phone 1300 992 688.

Expressions of interest open 9 am Monday, 1 June and close 9 am Monday, 29 June.

Last week, we each used

Council trivia

Did you get last week's question right?

Answer: D is correct. Through Council’s textile collection bins, residents are diverting around 13 tonnes of clothing and accessories from landfill every month. That’s approximately 68 tonnes in just over 5 months — a significant reduction in waste going to landfill.

Donation locations and information about avoiding and reducing clothing and textile waste available at tweed.nsw.gov.au/clothing-textile-waste

Read next week's edition for a new question.

In brief ...

Byrrill Creek community

A big thank you to everyone who attended the Byrrill Creek community information session last Thursday. It was great to connect with locals and share project updates. We appreciated the conversations and ongoing community interest. Stay up to date with the Flood Restoration Program tweed.nsw.gov.au/flood-restoration

WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY FESTIVAL Free Event

Murwillumbah Showgrounds

Sunday 7 June

10am - 3pm

On Bundjalung Country

Festival MC’d by Sam Refshauge - Community Resilience Organisation Plan C

Speakers & Presentations feat. Joëlle Gergis & Mandy Nolan

Environmental groups

Earth building & Landcare demos

HOOPLA CIRCUS!

Natural fibre weaving

Sunflower solar trailer

Native plants

Live music with JEROME WILLIAMS & GARRY KAFOA

Art & Kids Activities

Food vans & more!

Printing courtesy of Justine Elliot’s office

The NSW Biodiversity Conservation Trust is hosting local info sessions in June to explain the 'Rainforest conservation offer' and how it could work for you. Photography by Natsky

Supporting Elders through connection and culture.

Cultures of Care forum supports quality care for Elders

Tweed Shire Council is partnering with Social Futures to host the third Cultures of Care Regional Aged Care Forum on Wednesday 3 June 2026, bringing together providers, community organisations and leaders to strengthen care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders.

The forum will run from 9.30 am to 3 pm at the Tweed Heads Civic & Cultural Centre and will focus on building stronger connections, sharing knowledge and improving the quality of aged care across the region.

Facilitated by Uncle Garry Kafoa, the event will feature guest presenter Ragina Rogers, CEO of the Australian Indigenous Governance Institute.

Participants will take part in breakout discussions, join a yarning circle, and network over morning tea and lunch. Topics include strengthening partnerships between Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations and larger providers, culturally grounded approaches to data and storytelling, and supporting community voices in aged care reform, including the Support at Home Senate Inquiry.

The forum aligns with National Reconciliation Week, highlighting the importance of culturally safe, community-led approaches to caring for Elders. Register now via the link https://itl.ink/Cultures-of-care

Funding round now open for Community Grants 2026

Local not‑for‑profit community organisations are invited to apply for funding through Council’s Community Grants Program 2026, with applications now open.

Council proudly supports initiatives that help our community thrive by strengthening connection, creativity and care. If your group has a project that supports wellbeing, inclusion or connection, now is the time to apply.

The Community Grants Program provides financial support to local groups to deliver projects that:

• enhance wellbeing and safer communities

• increase social connections

• promote inclusion

• reduce homelessness.

A refreshed program and policy have been introduced this year to improve clarity, transparency, equity and fairness for applicants.

Support available for applicants

To help organisations prepare strong applications, Council is hosting 2 free drop-in support sessions where applicants can ask questions and receive guidance:

• Thursday 11 June 2026 | 9 am to 12 (noon), South Sea Islander Room, Tweed Administration Building

• Tuesday 16 June 2026 | 9 am to 12 (noon), Canvas & Kettle Meeting Room, Murwillumbah Civic & Cultural Centre

These informal sessions are designed to help you strengthen your project ideas, understand the application process and align your project with program priorities.

Attendance is optional and not required to apply. How to apply

Applications are open from 1 to 30 June 2026 and can be submitted online via Council’s website.

For more information, including guidelines and the application form, visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/grants-funding

Notification of integrated development application Development Application No. DA26/0328

A development application has been lodged by Newton Denny Chapelle Pty Ltd seeking development consent for use of an unauthorised structure as a farm experience premises at Lot 6 DP 245847; No. 487 Wardrop Valley Road Fernvale. Tweed Shire Council is the consent authority for the application.

The proposed development constitutes “Integrated Development” pursuant to Section 4.46(1) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. The following approvals are required in this regard:

The development application and the documents accompanying it may be viewed on Council’s DA Tracking site located at datracker.tweed.nsw.gov.au

The documents will be available for a period of 28 days from Wednesday 27 May to Wednesday 24 June 2026. Provision Approval Authority

Sections 89, 90 & 91 of the Water Management Act 2000 Water use approval, water management work approval or activity approval under Part 3 of Chapter 3

Notification of integrated development application

Development Application No. DA26/0311

Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water Group

A development application has been lodged by Arbus Pottsville Pty Limited seeking development consent for caravan park with associated water reticulation system and road and demolition at Lot 7 DP 1072659 & Lot 8 DP 1072659; No. 1024 Cudgera Creek Road Cudgera Creek ; Lot 250 DP 755701; No. 1183 Cudgera Creek Road Cudgera Creek . Tweed Shire Council is the consent authority for the application.

The proposed development constitutes ‘Integrated Development’ pursuant to Section 4.46(1) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. The following approvals are required in this regard: The development application and the documents accompanying it may be viewed on Council’s DA Tracking site located at datracker.tweed.nsw.gov.au

The documents will be available for a period of 28 days from Wednesday 27 May to Wednesday 24 June 2026. Provision Approval Authority

Section 201 of the Fisheries Management Act Permit To Carry Out Dredging Or Reclamation Work

Section 100B of the Rural Fires Act 1997 General Approval

Casuarina Dunecare Open Day

Join Tweed Shire Council and Tweed Landcare for a Casuarina Dunecare Open Day, celebrating local conservation and welcoming new volunteers. What’s happening on the day?

• Guided site tour of the Casuarina coastal reserve

• Free native plant giveaway

• Opportunities to meet the team and learn about bush regeneration.

Why get involved?

Healthy dune systems play a critical role in protecting our coastline, supporting native biodiversity, and enhancing the natural beauty of Casuarina. Whether you’re a long-time resident, new to the area, or simply interested in conservation, this is a great opportunity to learn more and make a positive impact.

When: Saturday, 30 May 2026, 8 am to 11 am

Location: Cylinders Drive end of Ocean Avenue, Casuarina

Contact: Dominic Al-Mudaris, Nature Care Group Supervisor, 02 6672 2982

Check when your water meter is read at tweed.nsw.gov.au/meter-reading

Current vacancies

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

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

DA26/0141 - Alterations and additions to existing dwelling

Lot 7 DP 561368, No. 94A Pioneer Parade Banora Point

DA26/0175 - In-ground swimming pool

Lot 1022 DP 879128, No. 25 Riversdale Boulevard Banora Point

DA26/0155 - Swimming pool, deck & gazebo

Lot 17 DP 248894, No. 221 Beltana Drive Bilambil

DA26/0195 - Alterations and additions to existing deck

Lot 209 DP 31041, No. 11 Banora Terrace Bilambil Heights

DA26/0035 - Dwelling with attached garage and associated earthworks

Lot 10 DP 244787, No. 28 Towners Avenue Bogangar

DA26/0114 - Demolition of existing structures, new dwelling house with attached secondary dwelling and two swimming pools

Lot 22 DP 1031933, No. 22 She-Oak Lane Casuarina

DA26/0205 - Inground swimming pool

Lot 2 DP 1052688, No. 2 Anne Street Chinderah

DA26/0172 - Inground swimming pool

Lot 93DP 1301249, No. 5 Sugar Mill Road Cudgen

DA26/0213 - Inground swimming pool

Lot 82DP 1305738, No. 7 Bowen Loop Cudgen

DA26/0099 - Shed

Lot 5 DP 826941, No. 20 Jack Williams Place Dungay

DA26/0093 - Single storey dwelling with attached garage

Lot 71DP 1308587, No. 49 Enmore Crescent Kings Forest

DA26/0097 - Two storey dwelling with attached garage

Lot 45DP 1308587, No. 21 Enmore Crescent Kings Forest

DA26/0032 - Alterations and additions to existing dwelling

Department of Primary Industries

Rural Fire Service

Sections Sections 89, 90 & 91 of the Water Management Act 2000 Water use approval, water management work approval or activity approval under Part 3 of Chapter 3 Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water

Any person may, during the above period, make a written submission to the General Manager of Council. It should also be noted that Council has adopted a policy whereby, on request, any submission including identifying particulars will be made public. Council will give consideration to the ‘Public Interest’ and requests for confidentiality by submitters in determining access to submission letters. However, the provisions of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 – GIPA may result in confidential submissions being released to an applicant. Any submission objecting to the proposed development must state the ground upon which such objection is made.

Please note: Requirements regarding Disclosure of Political Gifts and Donations

A disclosure is required to be made in a statement accompanying the relevant development or planning application by a person who makes the application. In addition, a person who makes a written submission either objecting to or supporting a relevant development or planning application must also make a disclosure if the person has made a reportable political donation. Further information regarding Donations and Gift Disclosure are available on Council’s website at tweed.nsw.gov.au/development-applications

Lot 13 DP 1066506, No. 28 North Point Avenue Kingscliff

DA26/0058 - Two storey dwelling with attached garage, retaining and associated earthworks

Lot 823DP 1301190, No. 62 Parkes Lane Terranora

DA26/0135 - Alterations and additions including house raising

Lot 56 Section 6DP 1223, Lot 55 Section 6DP 1223, No. 35-37 Irving Street Tumbulgum

DA26/0091 - Use of a flyover roof

Lot 2 SP 48800, Unit 2/No. 16 McGregor Crescent Tweed Heads

DA26/0119 - Construction of a swimming pool, deck, earthworks including retaining walls and shed

Lot 157DP 1281855, No. 8 Tucana Close Tweed Heads South

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

70 Quarry Road Murwillumbah Phone 0491 976 358

tvaelectrics@gmail.com

Coastline recovery stalled

By Jonathon Howard

COUNCIL SAYS the Tweed coastline is still struggling to recover months after Cyclone Alfred, with recent powerful swells causing fresh erosion damage along beaches already left vulnerable by earlier storms.

Tweed Shire Council’s Manager of Sustainability and Environment Jane Lofthouse said the coastline had failed to naturally rebuild over recent months, leaving many beach access points exposed to further erosion.

“The beaches didn’t recover from Cyclone Alfred,” Ms Lofthouse said.

“We had that event, then several rounds of big swells afterwards. Most of the damage actually happened in the months that followed.”

Ms Lofthouse said calmer winter conditions would normally allow beaches to naturally replenish sand levels, but that recovery had not occurred this year.

The latest large swells have stripped sand from sections of the Tweed’s 37-kilometre coastline and washed debris across access tracks, prompting council to prioritise emergency vehicle access for lifesaving and rescue services.

“We know some pedestrian access tracks have been affected, and we’re working through them, but our most important concern right now is maintaining emergency beach vehicle access,” she said.

Conditions are varying significantly between beaches, with the most severe erosion occurring along the central and northern sections of long beaches where easterly and southerly swells combined with high tides.

At Hastings Point, sand has reportedly accumulated north of the creek, while beaches south of the headland have suffered increased erosion.

Large quantities of natural debris have also washed ashore, including fallen trees, tangled spinifex from damaged dunes and pumice believed to have originated from a Pacific volcanic eruption several years ago.

“The spinifex does a really good job of holding the dune together, but once the dune goes, it all gets washed up and tangled,” Ms Lofthouse said.

Council crews have already carried out cleanup and sand reshaping works at locations including Salt Surf Club and Wooyung, but recent swells have undone much of the repair work.

“Council’s limited resources are strained by the repetitiveness of the work,” Ms Lofthouse said.

Beachgoers are being urged to avoid swimming due to dangerous swell conditions and poor water quality following weeks of rain, with another weather system forecast to impact the coast in coming days.

The Northern Rivers Rail Trail is transforming the Tweed Valley into one of Australia’s hottest destinations, with a growing network of local businesses helping drive a tourism boom across the shire.

SINCE OPENING, the Rail Trail has attracted thousands of visitors eager to experience the region’s spectacular scenery, food, accommodation, cycling adventures and relaxed village lifestyle.

This week we feature some of the amazing local businesses that provide products and ser vices to make your Rail Trail experience one to remember.

VALLEY E-BIKES

Among the businesses helping shape the Rail Trail experience is Valley E-Bikes, which has become a popular way for visitors to explore the trail on electric bikes while taking in the Tweed’s rolling countryside and iconic mountain views.

MCKENZIES MOUNTAIN, WOLLUMBIN

Families seeking affordable accommodation and outdoor experiences are also flocking

to McKenzies Mountain Wollumbin, where visitors can camp beneath the shadow of Wollumbin/Mount Warning and enjoy easy access to the trail and surrounding natural attractions.

MOO MOO ROADHOUSE

The food scene connected to the rail trail is also booming, with visitors stopping in at local favourites such as Moo Moo Roadhouse, known for its country hospitality and relaxed atmosphere.

BETTER BY BIKE

Experience the Northern Rivers on two wheels with Better By Bike’s premium e-bike rentals. These high-quality e-bikes are perfect for exploring Murwillumbah and the Northern Rivers Rail Trail. The e-bikes make it easy to navigate diverse terrains, from lush rainforests and historic bridges to abandoned rail tunnels and scenic coastal paths.

APEX DINING RESTAURANT

Murwillumbah’s Apex Dining Restaurant is helping elevate the region’s growing reputation as a dining destination with incredible food with amazing views from the Tweed Regional Gallery, which is a must.

GLENELG BOUTIQUE RESIDENCE

Accommodation providers are increasingly benefiting from overnight tourism, with boutique stays such as Glenelg Boutique Residence attracting travellers wanting to immerse themselves in the town’s heritage charm while exploring the rail trail and sur-rounding villages.

THE PLATFORM CAFÉ

One of the Rail Trail’s major drawcards is the ability for visitors to stop, rest and explore the communities along the route, with businesses such as The Platform Cafe at the start of the Rail Trail, becoming a hub for cyclists and travellers seeking coffee, meals and local Murwillumbah hospitality.

LA ROCHÉR ECO RETREAT

Eco-tourism is also becoming a defining feature of the Tweed’s tourism identity, with destinations such as La Rochér Eco Retreat offering luxury nature-based accommodation experiences that complement the region’s rainforest landscapes and slower-paced lifestyle.

GELATO & CO

Meanwhile, visitors looking for a sweet reward after tackling the trail are finding their way to Gelato & Co, and why not after a hard ride, which is also a favourite stop for locals let alone tourists exploring Murwillumbah’s town centre.

HOSANNA FARMSTAY

The trail’s broader tourism impact is also flowing into the rural hinterland, with destinations like Hosanna Farmstay continuing to attract families, campers and adventure seekers wanting to combine rail trail experiences with farm stays, music events and outdoor recreation.

Monday afternoon singalong at Infinite Care

By Madeleine Murray

ON A SUNNY MONDAY AFTERNOON at Infinite Care, an aged care facility on the outskirts of Tweed Heads, about 30 residents are sitting in a big circle preparing for a singalong with Ilona Harker.

The people are all in comfortable armchairs, many with walkers in front of them. Ilona is resplendent with a ukelele, a big smile and a large pink fabric camellia in her hair.

She hands the lyrics around to everyone in the room, but just when everything is about to start, the fire alarm goes off and I immediately think of saving myself.

Luckily it turns out to be a false alarm, but four firemen arrive in full firefighting gear and go up into the lift.

Ilona starts off with Que Sera Sera, saying, “This is my favourite song!” She says that quite a few times in the next hour but nobody minds. Everyone loves Que Sera Sera and they sing it very well. The classic Doris Day song has a great mix of nostalgia, melancholy, and acceptance. “What will be, will be…”

The next song is Love is in the Air. Trevor does a bit of a solo – he knows all the lyrics and has a wonderful singing voice.

Ilona plays the banjo and leads everyone enthusiastically through Don’t Fence Me In, I Did It My Way, Jamaica Farewell, and more classics. When she introduces Would You Like to Swing on a Star by Bing Crosby, a woman pipes up, “I’d like to swing with Bing Crosby!”

At the end of the session Trevor speaks to The Weekly about his love of singing, and his life.

“I never learned singing, but I love singing. I sing to myself and I reckon I’m a great singer!” Trevor used to have a fleet of coaches in

Nowra, and sometimes drove one.

“After I’d dropped the load of people off, I’d drive home empty, and sing my heart out over the microphone. It sounded great!”

On the way out, I speak to Asia, the resident engagement and well-being coordinator, also known as the lifestyle coordinator.

“Singing brings out so much happiness and so many memories for them. They were speaking about the last singalong all week”

“The singalongs have a very, very positive effect,” she says. “Singing brings out so much happiness and so many memories for them. They were speaking about the last singalong all week.

“We’re really excited and really happy to keep this going. They absolutely love Ilona!”

The 27-year-old, bursting with enthusiasm, tells The Weekly, “I started as a cleaner here and worked my way up. I love working with old people. I just love my job.”

On a personal note, the afternoon certainly assuaged my apprehensions about eventually moving to an aged care facility.

Frozen meals and fitness: Fuelling an active lifestyle

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

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

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

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

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

Contact our friendly team to find out more—and make mealtime effortless, nourishing, and enjoyable, so you can focus on living your healthiest, most active life.

Place an order today by calling 1300 112 112 or visit our website www.gourmetmeals.com.au

• Large gluten free

• Wholesome and nutritious

• Convenient ready-made frozen meals

• Australian Owned and Operated

• Home delivered and available in selected stores

• Approved Associate provider for Support at Home

• NDIS registered provider

• High protein, high fibre and dairy free meal options Minimum order requirements apply*

Ilona singing Love is in The Air with Trevor

Ilona with Trevor (L) and Ray Trevor used to sing in the empty bus microphone

Help senior renters

By Jonathon Howard

A FINGAL Head woman says senior renters are being “left behind” amid Australia’s worsening housing crisis, claiming the Federal Budget has failed to deliver meaningful support for older women struggling to keep a roof over their heads.

In a passionate letter to The Weekly, Michelle Maughan described the budget as a “bitter pill” for senior women, saying many are living in fear of eviction and isolation as soaring rents consume their entire income.

“The 2026 Federal Budget has sent a clear, heartbreaking message to the senior women of the Tweed: you are invisible,” Ms Maughan wrote.

She said older women renting privately were being forced into “self-imposed isolation” because the cost of living leaves no money for transport, volunteering or community participation.

“When everything goes on rent, literally every cent, we are forced into a self-imposed isolation,” she said.

“We want to get out, volunteer, and contribute to the community we’ve spent our lives building, but we can’t even afford the petrol or a bus fare to get there.”

Ms Maughan criticised the lack of increases to Commonwealth Rent Assistance, arguing the current support does not reflect the Tweed’s tight rental market, where vacancy rates remain among the lowest in the state.

Commonwealth Rent Assistance (CRA) is a non-taxable, fortnightly supplement added to income support payments (like the Age Pension) to help cover private rental or community housing costs.

As an example, eligible seniors can receive up to $219.40 per fortnight (singles) or $206.80

per fortnight combined (couples) depending on the rent they pay.

Ms Maughan also questioned government spending priorities, saying billions had been allocated toward investor tax incentives and aged care beds while many older renters remain at risk of homelessness.

“By funding institutional beds instead of security in our homes, they are telling us our only future is to wait for a crisis,” she wrote.

In response, Member for Richmond Justine Elliot said the Labor Govenrment has cut taxes, made medicines cheaper, delivered more bulk billing, cut student debt, made free TAFE permanent and delivered cheaper childcare.

“Under the Albanese Labor Government, Commonwealth Rental Assistance has increased by more than 50 per cent,” she said.

“In this Budget we’re delivering more costof-living help, a better tax system, and a fairer housing market.

“We’re reforming the tax system to support 75,000 more homeowners into the housing market and investing an extra $2 billion for enabling infrastructure to support up to 65,000 more homes, taking our Homes for Australia plan to over $47 billion.

“We are also helping to secure social housing for more than 4,000 eligible young people at risk of homelessness, with $59.4 million for states and territories.”

Concerns have been raised for senior renters

Big Country Radio

For our Seniors

Community support needed

By Jo Kennett

LOCAL NOT-for-profit Social Futures is calling for volunteers to share their time and skills to deliver programs or classes to support vulnerable people at its Tweed Heads Supported Temporary Accommodation hub.

Social Futures Senior Manager of Accommodation Services, Lucie White, says there are plenty of ways in which community volunteers could contribute.

“New volunteers could run activities or classes,” Lucie said.

“It could be something practical, like teaching people to make healthy meals using an air fryer, or someone might like to run a trivia night once a month or do art and craft, or mindfulness or stretching classes.”

By dedicating just an hour or two a month, volunteers can help residents learn new skills and enjoy moments of much-needed fun during a challenging time.

“It is incredibly cathartic for people who have been through so much to know that their community cares and has their back,” Lucie said.

Former Social Futures employee Cathy Serventy has combined her passion for education and community to create a free library for residents at the Lismore Supported Temporary Accommodation hub, featuring fiction, non-fiction, teenage and children’s books donated by local supporters, including the Lismore Library.

Now retired and with some extra time on her hands, Cathy runs weekly story-time sessions, using books, songs and musical instruments to create an engaging space for children staying at the hub. She says volunteering boosts her own mental health, social connection, and well-being.

“This community has given me a lot since we moved here, so it’s nice to give a little back,”

she said.

Cathy said one of the greatest rewards has been seeing children and families feel comfortable, connected and ready to take their next steps.

“I get so much out of it,” she said. “It’s keeping me interested, keeping me out in the community, and keeping my brain active.

“And I get a lot of gratitude from doing it. Often, that’s the way it is with volunteering, you get out of it much more than you put in.”

The local Lismore Country Women’s Association (CWA) Evening Branch is also providing suppor t, with members assembling thoughtful comfort bags for women staying at the accommodation site. The bags include essential toiletries such as toothpaste, shampoo, soap, feminine hygiene products and tissues, helping make each person’s stay a little more comfortable and dignified.

Volunteering opportunities could include running arts and crafts classes, stretching and meditation classes, air fryer or microwave cooking classes, trivia or other games.

If you are interested in volunteering with one of Social Futures temporary accommodation sites in Lismore, Grafton or Tweed Heads please contact Lucie White at info@socialfutures.org.au or call 1800 719 625.

To find a CWA branch near you: https://www. cwaofnsw.org.au/ Branches and groups.

Cathy Serventy runs weekly Story Time sessions

WHEELCHAIRS

and

Poppy Lady moved to tears

By Jonathon Howard

A TOUCHING Anzac Day tribute has linked Tumbulgum with the Central Coast after a 98-year-old woman known as the “Poppy Lady” was moved to tears by a powerful bush poetry recital honouring Australia’s most famous war horse.

Shirley Taylor, 98, has spent years hand-knitting hundreds of bright red poppies to distribute to veterans each Anzac Day, becoming a beloved figure in her local community through her quiet dedication to remembering Australia’s servicemen and women.

Her son, Ron Taylor, recently returned from a visit to the Northern Rivers with a story that deeply touched his mother during celebrations for her 98th birthday.

Ron, who lives at Tumbulgum, attended the packed Anzac Day Dawn Service and Gunfire Breakfast at the Tumbulgum Tavern, where local poet Col Capps delivered a stirring recital of wartime poetry.

Among the poems was the legendary story of “Bill the Bastard”, the famed World War I Waler horse renowned for carrying five soldiers to safety during the Battle of Romani in the Middle East campaign.

Ron said his mother, who has always had a deep love of horses, became emotional as he recounted the story and described the atmosphere at the Tweed event.

“It’s incredibly moving to see how the Anzac legacy connects us all, no matter how many miles are between us,” Ron said.

“For Mum to see the tavern packed with people honouring our history, and to hear that beautiful tribute to a beautiful horse, it meant the world to her.

“It makes all those hours of knitting poppies feel even more special.”

After hearing about Shirley’s reaction and her longstanding Anzac Day tradition, Mr Capps arranged for a video of the live performance at the tavern to be sent directly to her.

Watching the footage from her Central Coast home, Shirley was brought to tears by the recital and the strong sense of community spirit displayed in Tumbulgum.

Ron, an avid motorcyclist, spends every Anzac Day travelling between commemorative events across the Tweed, handing out his mother’s handmade poppies to veterans and attendees. The Tumbulgum Tavern has become known for its growing Anzac Day commemorations, with this year’s Gunfire Breakfast attracting record crowds as regional communities continue to embrace local services and traditions.

Family members say Shirley’s knitting needles are already working overtime in preparation for next year’s commemorations, inspired by the heartfelt connection forged between communities hundreds of kilometres apart through remembrance, poetry and mateship.

Poppy Lady with her son Ron

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BELIEVE IT or not but many Tweed Shire homes still do not have working smoke alarms fitted.

It’s a shocking thought and one that prompts renewed warnings each year from fire authorities ahead of winter and the increased risk of house fires.

Monday, June 1, marks the first day of winter and is national Smoke Alarm Action Day, with residents urged to install and test their smoke alarms and ensure their homes are properly protected as heaters, electric blankets, fireplaces and cooking appliances are used more.

Authorities say colder weather traditionally leads to an increase in house fires, while the growing number of electronic devices being charged and used inside homes is adding further fire risks.

Fire safety advocates are warning that many residents either have outdated smoke alarms, flat batteries or no alarms installed at all, de -

spite smoke alarms providing one of the most important early warnings during a house fire. They say a functioning smoke alarm can provide precious extra minutes for families to escape safely and dramatically reduce the risk of serious injury or death.

Smoke Alarm Action Day carries a simple but potentially life-saving message: take one minute to check smoke alarms are working.

“It’s something every household can do, but many people don’t think about it until it’s too late,” fire authorities warned.

“Don’t become complacent when it comes to fire safety.”

Residents across the Tweed are being encouraged to: test every smoke alarm in their home and create and practise a home fire escape plan.

Residents are also being reminded never to ignore a smoke alarm activation and to ensure all family members know what to do if a fire occurs.

Fire alarms crucial Walk on Country event

TWEED SHIRE Council is inviting the community to reflect, learn and connect during National Reconciliation Week, with a free Walk on Country cultural event at Kingscliff this Sunday, May 31.

Led by Tweed Bundjalung cultural educator Uncle Franc, the guided walk will share Aboriginal stories, language and traditional knowledge connected to the local landscape.

Speaking on National Sorry Day, Uncle Franc said many Australians still did not fully understand the history of the Stolen Generations.

“People still don’t realise, until 1967, Aboriginal kids at school could just be taken,” he said.

The walk will explore the meanings behind local place names including Bogangar, Chinderah and Uki, while teaching participants about traditional medicine plants, ceremonial plants

and the Tweed’s six cultural seasons.

Tweed Shire Council Director Sustainable Communities and Environment Naomi Searle said reconciliation was built through participation and understanding.

The free family-friendly event runs from 10am to noon on Sunday, May 31, from Ed Rotary Park to Cudgen Headland Surf Life Saving Club.

Uncle Franc will lead the Walk on Country

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WITH ORIGIN 1 being run and done by the time you read this one team would have struck an early blow to go ahead before teams travel to Melbourne.

Some gutsy calls from both teams but gee whiz it’s a great time of year to be watching footy and aren’t they super games.

The only disappointing thing is the removal of the stars from NRL teams and limited games on the weekends surrounding the big clashes. Some coaches even give extended rest to their star players.

It’s a difficult one for clubs e.g. Penrith who have multiple players in Origin and on good money (salary but a per game approximate payment) but don’t play multiple games per year (excluding injury and suspension) due to Origin.

In saying that, if they have plenty in Origin their team is obviously going to go better. The advantage there is you can blood some young players as the Dolphins did in Brian Pouniu. Brian is the brother of Joseph who sustained a devastating neck injury in January 2023 representing the Junior Titans.

Joseph was a childhood prodigy, one of the best front row prospects I’ve ever seen. Unfortunately Joseph is wheelchair bound but made the last minute trek to Canberra to watch his brother debut for the Dolphins in what was an emotional moment.

Joey now assists with video at the Titans and is an invaluable help to myself with the NRLQ series.

I attended the Dogs v Storm game Friday night at Accor and was lucky enough to be in

the legendary Terry Lamb’s bar called ‘Baa’s Bar’.

What a great set up it is and an acknowledgement of the great Bulldog Baa Lamb.

The Vegas 2027 teams have been announced with Storm v Tigers and Eels v Titans locked in for the season opener and plenty of people have already rushed to get packages to Sin City for the trip.

I genuinely think it’s a great concept and will be awesome to see plenty of local people heading over to support the Titans.

Big congrats to local products Cohen Aitken and Billy Mulherin who were recently selected in the Qld Schoolboys team to contest the ASSRL championships at Coffs in July.

It was also great to see the NSW women’s team set up camp locally and training at Piggabeen all week in preparation for Thursday’s final game.

A draw in the Cookie Cup at Murbah on Saturday night - Cookie would have loved that, he would have had a beer in both sheds.

Quick shout out to the great man battling Bernie Quinn who turned 82 on Monday, Happy Birthday Dad. See you at the footy. Quinny

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Songwriting icon returns

By Rada Campbell

A VOICE that has shaped generations of listeners is set to return to the Tweed, with Suzanne Vega bringing her career-spanning catalogue to Twin Towns this September.

It marks her first Australian tour in nine years, and with tickets already selling fast for the Tweed Heads show, there’s clear appetite for her return.

“Last time was a nostalgic look back at two albums,” Suzanne told The Weekly. “This time we have a new album which has been really well received by the public, which feels great. Different energy.”

That new energy comes from Flying With Angels, her latest release, which adds fresh material to a setlist already anchored by enduring classics like Luka and Tom’s Diner.

For many artists, revisiting songs that have lived for decades can feel like repetition. For Suzanne, it’s the opposite.

“They still feel fresh,” she said. “Both of them for different reasons. Child abuse is still prevalent, and Tom’s Diner has turned into a giant party for all ages and types of people.”

It’s this balance of social awareness and connection that has defined her career. While often described as a writer of quiet, observational songs, Suzanne sees her catalogue as far broader.

“Some songs are quiet and everyday but most really are not,” she said. “I cover a lot of ground… I don’t complete songs on tour, but I take notes all the time.”

That instinct to observe has kept her work relevant across more than four decades, and it continues to shape the themes explored in her latest music.

“The themes of free speech, which are under siege here in America, everyone talks about

that,” she said. “There’s also recovery from COVID… and Flying With Angels has a theme of caregiving which is relevant not just at my age but at any age.”

While Suzanne has performed on some of the world’s biggest stages, her upcoming Twin Towns show offers something different, with a more intimate setting bringing her storytelling into sharper focus.

“I guess we’ll find out,” she said of the venue with a laugh.

What remains unchanged, however, is the reason she keeps returning to the stage.

“The audience,” she said. “The excitement they feel and the knowledge that my songs have been a part of their lives. Nothing beats that.”

With a catalogue that continues to resonate and new material adding fresh depth, Tweed audiences can expect a night that blends nostalgia with something far more immediate.

Suzanne Vega performs at 7:30pm, Wednesday, September 16, at Twin Towns, Warf St, Tweed Heads. Tickets via davidroywilliams.com.au and twintowns.com.au

100 voices at The Regent

By Madeleine Murray

A HUGE CHOIR drawn from the vibrant Big Voice Choirs across the Northern Rivers will give a powerful performance at The Regent on Saturday, June 6.

Anthem, a massive choral and musical event featuring a powerhouse 100-voice choir and a full live band, is a celebration of courage and change led by local creative force Janet Swain.

The Weekly caught up with Janet to talk about the show.

“Anthem is a bold, epic-scale production that dives into the heart of our national identity,” she said.

“In an era of rapid transformation, the show asks the driving questions of our time: Who are we? And how are we inventing the idea of Australia every day?

“Anthem is built on a repertoire of songs that embody courage, change, and hope. The performance moves beyond traditional choral boundaries, blending high-energy arrangements with moments of deep, collective reflection.”

Big Voice Choirs, from Brunswick Heads, Kingscliff and Murwillumbah, perform two epic choir shows each year, and rehearse for 20 weeks for each show.

“We aren’t just singing about Australia’s past; we are singing about the Australia we are creating right now,” Janet continued.

“This show is a celebration of our community’s resilience and an invitation to feel deeply together. It’s about the anthems we carry in our hearts as we navigate a changing world.”

This curated selection of songs will challenge, uplift, and unite. This is bound to be a stirring, moving show that will make the audience laugh and cry. Taylor Swift’s Cruel Summer, Sia’s Bird Set free, an epic version of Aquarius and Let the Sunshine in, and George Michael’s Freedom are some of the songs, accompanied by the Cassettes dancing their hearts out. The amazing band is Gina Ogilvie on electric guitar, Marcelo

Bonin from Brazil on drums, Mosese Parker from Fiji on bass, and Diego Trigo from Brazil on soprano sax, and Janet on the grand piano.

“These are strange times - and people are a bit afraid. These songs are all so uplifting, and joyful, I wanted to make a show where people could get up and dance!” Janet said.

Janet is a musician, songwriter, and event producer based in the Northern Rivers. Through her work with Big Voice Choirs, she has become a central figure in the region’s creative arts scene, known for her ability to bring diverse voices together to create powerful, community-driven musical experiences.

Anthem is on from 4pm-6pm on Saturday, June 6, at The Regent, Brisbane Street, Murwillumbah. Doors open at 3:30pm. Refreshments and food available. Tickets at events.humanitix.com/ anthem/tickets

Suzanne Vega bringing her career spanning set to Twin Towns. Photo by Ebru Yildiz

A powerful choir of 100 voices sings Anthem. The choir rehearsed for 20 weeks

Murwillumbah cool

By Rada Campbell

MURWILLUMBAH has always had nostalgia baked into it. Old brick buildings, faded signage, fibro shops and streets that still feel a little rough around the edges. For people who grew up here, it can sometimes feel frozen in time. But graphic designer, photographer and creative director Danny Armstrong sees something else entirely beneath the surface.

“I’ve always loved the look and feel of the town and surrounds,” he told The Weekly. “Growing up on the Gold Coast, I watched the destruction of historic buildings in real time. I witnessed my favourite buildings either turn into rubble or be plastered with cement render in the 2000s. “As a kid, we’d drive through Murbs from time to time, and it just had a different feeling and energy to it. The old buildings were beautiful, and the streets were raw and it’s still that way.”

For the past decade Armstrong has built an internationally recognised creative career from Murwillumbah, producing branding, photography, art direction and campaign work for clients across fashion, hospitality, publishing and sport, while building a life and raising a family in the town he now calls home.

His recent projects include campaigns and creative work connected to ASICS, Gatorade and Fireside Agency, while his design work for Australian communications company Fireside Agency recently won Silver at the 2026 Better Future World Design Awards.

Yet despite the growing recognition, Armstrong still speaks more passionately about place than profile.

“My last ten years living here have really been appreciating what’s on offer locally and finding beauty in stripped back things,” he said.

“In a world where capitalism rules, it’s nice to have small towns that are so embedded and surrounded by nature and community. The workspaces are unique and spacious, the

overheads are lower than cities and the pace is slower.

“Travelling all over the world is great but you start to feel a theme of how fast our world is.

Coming home to the lush green sub-tropical surroundings of our area feels like a privilege.”

That slower, grounded energy flows through Armstrong’s work itself. His aesthetic leans heavily into vintage typography, weathered textures, hand-painted signage and natural colour palettes, but always with a contemporary edge that feels distinctly Australian rather than performatively retro.

Armstrong believes Murwillumbah’s real creative identity often exists behind the scenes.

“What people consider cool is certainly subjective. For me it’s the creative underbelly,” he said.

“If you drive past the 10 servos in Murbs and peel back the layers, you can find a bubbling creative presence under the hood. On any given day there are international and domestic talent creating and thriving behind the scenes. Entrepreneurs, board shapers, chefs, artists, writers, musicians, brewers, bakers.”

“The scene isn’t in your face like Byron or Sydney - it feels genuine, just like town itself.”

For many locals, Murwillumbah has always been cool. Danny Armstrong just helped them notice. See more of Danny Armstrong’s work at dannyarmstrong.studio

The treasured C W Leggo pipe organ at All Saints Anglican Church in Murwillumbah is turning 100 and still sounds amazing!

Organ Centenary events

A CENTURY of music, history and community spirit will be celebrated next month as All Saints Anglican Church marks the 100th anniversary of its historic C W Leggo pipe organ.

The Organ Centenary celebrations will take place across the weekend of June 13 and 14, featuring concerts, congregational singing, guest performers and a special commemorative dinner.

The organ, originally purchased from the Leggo workshop in Manly in June 1926, has become one of the region’s treasured musical instruments and was formally recognised in 2008, as being “of significance in the State of New South Wales” by the Organ Historical Trust of Australia.

Over the past century, the instrument has been relocated, technically enhanced and slightly extended, while retaining the unique sound quality that church members say perfectly suits the acoustics of the current building, constructed in 1960.

Local organiser Barry Firth said the church was eager to share the milestone celebrations with the broader community.

“The church is making a big effort to promote this as a significant occasion in the community,” Mr Firth said.

Festivities will begin on Saturday, June 13,

at 3pm with a “Hymnfest” featuring organist Warren Whitney accompanying 12 hymns for congregational singing.

The afternoon will also include a vocal solo interlude by Ian Holston accompanied by Ayesha Gough, along with performances by the Lindisfarne School Choir and choristers from St Carthage’s Cathedral.

A celebratory dinner will follow at the Murwillumbah Services Club from 6pm, featuring guest speakers including long-serving volunteer organist Ross Johnson, who has played the instrument since 1960, and organ builder Simon Pierce.

The celebrations continue on Sunday, June 14, with a special holy communion service at 9am focused on music and organ performances by the church’s regular organists.

The weekend will conclude with a 2pm concert and organ recital by guest organist Phillip Gearing, accompanied by performances from the Murwillumbah Philharmonic Choir and members of the Chillingham Voices Community Choir under the direction of Darren Postema. Most events will operate on a donation basis, with bookings required for the celebratory dinner.

Danny Armstrong hand-paints artwork

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The couple are passionate about delivering quality work to their clients with an outstanding track record and honest and reliable service.

“We moved to Tweed Shire just over a year ago with our two children partly to be closer to their school, also for a lifestyle change,” Bec said.

“We love the lifestyle here and the kids have more of an opportunity to join lots of community activities, sports and events.

I Dig It offers an excavator that is just under 1,800mm wide which means it can get into tight spaces.

“With the machine we can dig, scrape, trench, post holes, landscaping, driveways and terracing,” Josh said.

“The machine has rubber tracks which means it won’t damage your driveway and it is not as hard on your lawn.

“We have three different sized buckets, a ripper and a post hole auger which are all easily interchangeable with a power tilt hitch.

“The tilt hitch allows you to dig or scrape at different angles, which makes it more efficient when working on uneven ground.

“Having the four-tonne tipper allows us to also remove rubbish or soil if the job requires it.”

Josh has 20 years’ experience in excavation and landscaping and can offer competitive rates, fully licensed and insured.

Read some of the testimonials from their clients:

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“I Dig It is a great company to work with. Josh’s friendly attitude makes him easy to talk to and explain what you are after. He is a safe operator on site and always comes up with a solution for any situation. Highly recommended.” Michael (Builder) Terranora.

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ESTATE OF GREGORY JOHN DAWES

Any person having any claim upon the estate of Gregory John DAWES, late of Tweed Heads West NSW 2485 who died on 12 September 2025, must send particulars of the claim to the legal representative for the estate at PO Box 604, Tweed Heads NSW 2485, within 30 days from publication of this notice. After that time the legal representative intends to distribute the property in the estate having regard only to the claims of which the legal representative had notice at the time of distribution.

Prayer

Prayer to the Virgin Mary

(Never known to fail)

O Most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, fruit vine, splendours of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, immaculate Virgin assist me this my necessity. O Star of the Seas help me and show me herein you are my mother. O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succour me in my necessity. There are none that can withstand your power. O, show me herein you are my Mother. O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3 times) Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands (3 times). Thank you for your mercy towards me and mine. AMEN. This prayer must be said for three days and after that the request will be granted. The prayer must be published.

Tweed Valley

Weekly In Memoriam

Funeral Notice

In

loving memory of

Peter John Catterall

Late of Mooball

Passed away peacefully on 19th May 2026

Aged 61

Dearly loved husband of Karen, loved father and father-in-law of Matthew & Louise, Dannielle & Zenon, Joshua, Luke, Nicholas and Matilda & Zac.

Cherished Pop of Ollie, Elijah, Tyson, Logan, Nixon and Remi.

Funeral at Tweed Valley Cemetary Chapel, 29th May 2026 at 10am

GARY JOHN NEWMAN

Late of Murwillumbah

Passed away peacefully on Sunday 24th May 2026

Aged 73 years

Loved father and father-in-law of Luke & Rebecca and Natalie & Shane

Adored Poppy Beach of Ruby, Lomani, Lachlan, Neve and Billie-J

Cherished and loved by Pam and Naomi, who held a special place in his heart

Loving brother of Jenny (dec’d), Paul and Mark and a great mate to all that knew him

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend Carrot’s Funeral Service to be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church on Wednesday 3rd June 2026 at 11:30am.

Death Notice

loving memory Joan Iris Eccleshare nee’ Stapleton

Late of Bupa Pottsville. Formerly of Murwillumbah

Passed away peacefully on Monday 18th May 2026

Aged 90 years

Dearly loved partner of Bob Melberg (dec’d)

Loved mother and mother-in-law of Rob, Kimilla & Kay and their extended families

Further details regarding a Memorial Service will be published at a later date.

In loving memory of

Leo James Kelly

Late of Mooball

Passed away peacefully on ursday 21st May 2026

Aged 89 years

Dearly loved husband of Bernadette (dec’d)

Loved father and father-in-law of Linda, Judith & Rod and Peter & Jenny

Cherished Grandpa of James & Emma

Loved partner of Marlene

Loved brother of Patricia

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend Leo’s Requiem Mass to be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Murwillumbah, on Friday 29th May 2026 at 11:30am

A er the service the cortege will leave for Tweed Valley Lawn Cemetery.

In loving memory of Stephanie Reeves

It is with deep sadness that the family of Stephanie Reeves announce her passing on 12 May 2026, aged 74 years.

Much loved mother of Chelsea Gale, Holli Reeves and Kelly Dixon and grandmother of Bailee and Jake, Jameson, Larn, Shaelyn, Isaac and Archie. Stephanie will be remembered for her free-spirited naturealways warm, gentle and loving.

Privately cremated.

For Service details please see: https://www.simplicityfunerals.com.au/funerals/upcoming-funerals/3CLXX/

In loving memory

Raymond John Hughes

‘George’

Passed away peacefully on 17 May 2026, aged 77 years.

Loving father of Michael, Rebecca and Rachel.

Cherished Poppy of omas, Catherine, James, Lilly, Alyssa, Lani, Lyla and Savanna.

Known to many simply as “George”, Raymond was a proud truck driver who loved woodchopping, shing, and country music.

He will be remembered for the laughter, stories and memories he shared with family and friends.

Privately cremated, surrounded by love. Forever in our hearts, always remembered.

“Gone trucking the long road home.”

In Memoriam

In Loving Memory

Janet (Jan) Kay Bourke

29-5-2025

A year has passed since you went away,

You are missed so deeply every day

Your warmth, your smile, your love will stay with us always

Forever in our thoughts and hearts

Your loving husband Ken and Family

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ALLAN Madeline Norma 11/05/2026

JAMES Mabel 15/05/2026

HOLER David Jonathon 09/05/2026

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BROWN Leslie 18/05/2026

CATTERALL Peter John 19/05/2026

YOUNG Damon Glen 19/05/2026

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LISSON Elma Joyce 21/05/2026

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Lorna May Hill

18/12/1925 - 1/6/1993

If roses grow in Heaven Lord

Please pick a bunch for us

Place them on our Mother’s arms

And tell her they are from us

And when she turns to smile

Place a kiss upon her cheek

And hold her for awhile. Because remembering her is easy

We do it every day

But there is an ache within our hearts That will never go away.

Lovingly remembered. Your Children, Lynette, John, Beverley & Jennifer

McGuiness Funerals Ph: (02) 6672 2144 Murwillumbah

Bilambil’s big upset, Cookie remembered

By Jo Kennett

THE BILAMBIL Jets have upset the competition leaders Lower Clarence with a convincing win at home while the Mustangs and the Giants drew with a buzzer beater in the Cookie Cup.

Bilambil went down in the women’s tackle 46-0 to Northern United, but the Jets Reserve Grade side beat Lower Clarence 38-6 at home.

The Jets went in as underdogs in first grade but an on-fire Caleb Nicholls scored five (of the Jets eight) tries, with Alex Fitzugh converting seven, to get the win 46-6 and put them into sixth place. Well done on a huge win.

It was a big day at the Murwillum-

bah Mustangs and the Mullumbim by Giants with the Cookie Cup in honour of Grant Cook, who played for both teams and tragically passed away ten years ago.

originally from Mullum but was play ing for the Mustangs when he died.

It’s always a big day and kicked off with the women’s tackle, with the Mustangs going down 30-4 to the Seagulls. In the Ladies League Tag (LLT) the Giants won 10-8, before the Under Mustangs 18s managed to get one up on the visitors, 16-6.

The Mustangs reggies won 32-0.

In first grade the Giants were heading for a win when the Mustangs came from behind to score a try in the final seconds, to draw 28-28.

It was Old Boys Day for the Tweed Coast Raiders with a big crowd on hand, including some of the Burger family who helped build the field under the guidance of father Les, to watch the local derby against Cudgen.

The Raiderettes won 20-6 in the LLT but Cudgen got the nod in the Under 18s 20-12.

The Raiders came out on top, 20-6 in the reggies.

There was plenty of back and forth in first grade, with Cudgen

Tweed clubbies saving lives abroad

THE 2025–2026 season has been one of the busiest and most productive periods yet for the International Lifesaving Development Program, with major advances in equipment support, lifesaving training, international cooperation and drowning prevention throughout Southeast Asia.

A major highlight of the season was the success of the “Boards Abroad” initiative, which has become one of the most successful international development projects undertaken by Australian surf lifesavers in recent years.

In September 2025, a container shipment of around 60 rescue boards, rescue tubes, resuscitation mannequins and other lifesaving equipment was shipped to the Philippines.

Cudgen Headland Surf Life Saving Club contributed $2,000 towards domestic freight costs to transport the equipment to Brisbane for international shipment.

The shipment experienced significant delays on the wharves at Subic Bay in the Philippines before being released and delivered to Bacnotan Municipality in Luzon and the headquarters of Surf Life Saving Philippines. Under the arrangement, Bacnotan Municipality retained 50 per cent of the equipment and covered the international freight costs, while Surf Life Saving Philippines retained the remaining equipment for distribution throughout the country.

Additional equipment has since been distributed into Antique Province on Panay Island as part of an Australian Government Volunteers Program assignment being undertaken by Australian lifesaver David Field in partnership with the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO).

The surfboards and rescue equipment distributed in Antique Province included three soft rescue boards donated by Evans Head SLSC, Tamarama SLSC and Salt SLSC.

The “Boards Abroad” project originated from earlier international lifesaving development work in Phuket, Thailand, and has expanded into a broader regional training and certification framework.

This is followed up with detailed lifesaving training and membership of the SEAL network to ensure that Australian standards and acceptable international standards are carried on. This involves annual certification of these lifeguards.

Training activities have included water safety and lifeguard education programs in Vietnam and the Philippines, with an emphasis on practical rescue skills, CPR, disaster response and international-standard beach and aquatic safety operations.

Work is currently being conducted in the Philippines within the PDRRMO system in Antique Province to

develop long-term sustainable water safety capability throughout the province.

The first stage of the program has already seen dozens of DRRMO personnel undertake practical lifesaving and water safety training, with plans to continue developing local instructors and operational personnel to higher certification levels.

Program organisers believe the use of sport and competition is also proving to be an effective way of enhancing practical lifesaving skills and teamwork. Plans are now underway to support local lifesaving competitions in Panay over coming months.

The season included the successful running of the 2026 Da Nang International Lifeguard Competition in Vietnam. Now recognised as one of the leading lifesaving development competitions in Southeast Asia, the event brought together teams from Vietnam, the Philippines, Singapore, Sabah, Myanmar and Australia.

Australian lifesavers again supported a number of developing international teams in the competition, continuing the cooperative culture that has become a hallmark of the Southeast Asian Lifesaving Network (SEAL).

As in previous years, Australian competitors assisted other developing teams to make up team numbers, helping provide valuable international experience and raising competition standards throughout the region.

Following ongoing certification and recertification work throughout the region, the SEAL network is expected to apply to the International Life Saving Federation for recognition as an international affiliate later this year.

Organisers believe the continued cooperation between Australian surf lifesaving clubs and emerging lifesaving organisations throughout Southeast Asia is producing measurable improvements in water safety capability, rescue standards and drowning prevention education across the region.

every game is tough,” he said.

“All sides are improving this year so that’s great for the competition.”

Raiders coach James Shean said it was a great game despite falling short.

“I can’t fault the guys’ efforts,” he said.

“They tried the whole 80 minutes and everyone on the hill was so proud of them but we just couldn’t get the job done.

“We had a great turn out for Old Boys Day with the presentation of the Old Boy’s jersey playing in the South Murbah jersey today really meant something.”

Unfortunately Dan Willoughby went out injured in the first five minutes, followed by Owen Fredericks with four front rowers out already.

he said.

“There were some little errors at crucial times but I thought we won the ground a lot better than we have been in the past,” he said.

“We’re improving every week so that’s a good thing and it was great to get the win.”

Cudgen had a few players out but Wayne said they have a bit of depth “which is great” and they managed to get the win with no injuries.

“It’s a credit to the competition that

Owen provided a memorable Merve Hughes moment when he started warming up to go back on, with the young crew on the hill copying his moves, to the delight of the crowd.

It’s those classic moments that footy fans love, not just the wins, and great to see so many supporters, including all the trailblazing old boys and girls, out enjoying the show.

Congratulations to the Jets Billy Mulheran and Raiders Cohen Aitkens chosen in the Queensland Schoolboys side and trialling for the Australian Schoolboys team.

Elite goalkeeper to visit MFC

By Jonathon Howard

YOUNG FOOTBALLERS in the Tweed are set to receive elite-level training this week when former professional goalkeeper Ryan Meskell visits the Murwillumbah Football Club (MFC) for a special development session focused on junior keepers.

The exclusive Goalkeeper Development Session will take place on Thursday, May 28, from 4.30pm to 7.30pm at the club grounds, giving aspiring local players the chance to train with and learn from a player with extensive experience in professional football.

MFC president Jessica Lee said the session has already generated significant excitement among players, families and the wider football community.

“The training clinic will focus on building confidence, refining technique and strengthening the core fundamentals of goalkeeping for junior players looking to develop their skills,” she told The Weekly.

“The opportunity to work alongside a professional-level goalkeeper was rare for regional players and reflected the club’s growing focus on player development and community engagement.”

The event also comes during a new era for the club under the leadership of Ms Lee, who recently became the club’s first female president in decades.

A respected local sports therapist and community advocate, Ms Lee’s appointment has been welcomed as a progressive step forward for the club and the wider sporting community. Club officials say the combination of elite coaching opportunities and fresh leadership is helping strengthen football pathways for young players across the region.

Families and community members are encouraged to attend the session and support the next generation of local football talent.

A Cudgen player lines up a Raider's player in Saturday's Old Boys Day clash

Try time at the Mustangs for the Cookie Cup Photo Tiara Wood

Local surf clubs are bringing fun and safety to kids overseas

Ryan Meskell

Real Estate

FROM COAST TO COUNTRY

AGENT OF THE WEEK

By Jo Kennett

OUR AGENT of the Week is Paul McCarthy, licensed agent and principal of Real Estate 2487 at Kingscliff.

Paul has more than 30 years experience in real estate sales and has even written a book on property investment.

He and partner Heather, the agency’s marketing expert, live in Kingscliff and love everything about the Tweed Coast lifestyle.

Known for going the extra mile, they pride themselves on offering a more relaxed, professional service. We caught up with Paul to find out more.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO GO INTO REAL ESTATE?

My wife and I were trying to buy a property on the Gold Coast, from Melbourne, where we had a contracting business and couldn’t find a real estate agent who listened carefully to what we were looking for. We were presented with multiple properties that didn’t meet our requirements. In frustration we located

and purchased a property ourselves. Although I didn’t go into the industry immediately after this experience, it planted the seed.

WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE CHANGES TO NEGATIVE GEARING AND CGT?

I’m not in a position as a real estate agent to give financial advice. However, from my 35 years experience in the real estate industry, having seen the good, the bad, and the ugly, these types of changes typically have some effect initially on both buyers and sellers confidence.

I’m a great believer that anytime is a good time to buy real estate. It’s not the timing of the market but time in the market that counts.

WHAT ABOUT THE CHANGES TO FAMILY TRUSTS?

A very recent example of this was a mother and her two adult children who inspected a property through us a couple of days prior to the budget. Their idea was to place the property in the

Open Homes

Saturday, May 30

Raine & Horne Jet

• 415 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah, 9.30–10am

• 629 Tumbulgum Road, Tygalgah, 9.30–10am

• 63 Tyalgum Road, Byangum, 10.30–11am

• 837 Nobbys Creek Road, Nobbys Creek, 10.30–11am

• Panorama Tweed Valley Estate: 2891 Kyogle Road, Kunghur, 11.30–1.30pm

family trust and possible changes to trusts were concerning them.

We haven’t heard from them since, so maybe that is the answer. I do believe though, especially in tightly held desirable locations such as Kingscliff and the Tweed Coast where we mainly deal with home owners and to a much lesser degree property investors, the effects on our market should be minimal.

WHAT ARE YOU HEARING FROM PEOPLE PLANNING ON BUYING OR SELLING SINCE THE CHANGES WERE ANNOUNCED?

There has been some initial hesitation from buyers however that will always be the reaction of most human beings when facing adverse change.

An investor I have sold to previously contacted me after the budget in an anxious frame of mind wanting to sell, however once we went over the pros and cons of why he bought in the first place and worked out what his long term goals for buying were, he was much more relaxed, had a chat with

• 1243 Kyogle Road, 12–12.30pm Tate Brownlee Real Estate

• 4/33 Martinelli Ave, Banora Point, 9–9.30am

• 109 Peninsula, Bilambil Heights, 9–9.30am

• 59 Banora Blvd, Banora Point,10–10.30am

• 3 Elm Pl Riley, Banora Point, 10–10.30am

• 30 Beech Lane, Casuarina, 11–11.30am

• 22/14 Lorikeet, Tweed Heads South, 11–11.30am

• 9 Banora Blvd, Banora Point, 11–11.30am

• 17 Ossa Boulevard, Terranora, 12–12.30pm

• 17 Townsend Cres, Terranora, 12–12.30pm

• 25 Franklin St, Banora Point, 12–12.30pm

his accountant and is now leaving things as they are.

DO YOU HAVE ANY PARTICULAR TYPES OF PROPERTY YOU HAVE MORE EXPERTISE OR INTEREST IN?

I have sold all types and price ranges of residential properties over the years, including off the plan, to both home owners and property investors.

I do enjoy working with investors having been a property investor myself, however I am always pleased seeing the satisfaction of both the buyer and seller at the completion of any successful sale process.

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE BOOK YOU HAVE WRITTEN ON REAL ESTATE?

I self published a property book back in 2010 on how to purchase investment properties using the equity in your own home with little money or no money down. I also encouraged in the book if you did nothing more than just buy your own home and hold it through to retirement, you would have yourself a very comfortable nest egg.

• 78 Hillcrest Ave, Tweed Heads South, 1–1.30pm

• 14 Valley view, Terranora, 1–1.30pm

• 13 Clifford Crescent, Banora Point, 2–2.30pm First National Murwillumbah

• 506 Tweed Valley Way, Murwillumbah, 10–10.30am

• 192 Stokers Road, Stokers Siding, 11–11.30am

• 145 Smiths Creek Road, Uki, 11.45–12.15pm

• 7 Central Parade, Murwillumbah, 11.45–12.15pm

DJ Stringer

• 33/5 Island Dr, Tweed Heads, 9–9.30am

Hot property

THIS WEEK’S Hot Property is an entertainer’s dream at South Murwillumbah where you can experience waterfront luxury with sweeping cane-field views across to the mountains. 169 Tweed Valley Way is an expansive four bedroom. three bathroom home boasting polished hardwood floors, three metre ceilings, and a chef’s kitchen with premium Miele and Fisher & Paykel appliances.

Entertain seamlessly on the wide covered deck with privacy shutters, or enjoy the private ten metre pontoon and jet ski dock. Imagine jumping on your boat and tying up at the nearby Riverview Hotel, the Tumby Tavern or Husk Farm Distillery.

Features include an expansive entertainers’ deck, front entry deck capturing lush vistas, and climate-controlled living zones.

The luxurious main bedroom features waterfront views, open ensuite, and a walk-in robe. There is a media room with an electric projector screen and multi-zone air conditioning, and electric gated entry to a double auto garage with high clearance and abundant watercraft storage.

All this is just a five minute drive to Murwillumbah, 15 minutes to Tweed City and just 20 minutes to the beaches of Kingscliff. This beautiful home is for sale by negotiation with David Stringer at DJ Stringer.

• 7/20 Dutton St, Coolangatta, 10–10.30am

• 29 Townsend Cres, Terranora, 10–10.30am

• 1/13 Parkland Pl, Banora Point, 11–11.30am

• 6/2 Surf St, Bilinga, 11–11.30am

• 2/38 Garrick St, Coolangatta, 11–12pm

• 6/241 Golden Four Dr, Bilinga, 12–12.30pm

Real Estate 2487

• 3/3 Lorien Way, Kingscliff, 11–11.45am Tweed Coolangatta Real Estate

• 67 Tringa Street, Tweed Heads West, 11–11.30am

• 5/3-5 Barrett Street, Tweed Heads West, 12–12.30pm

TO THE LIFE YOU LOVE

In the heart of Cabarita Beach, CABA Residences offers a rare chance to live the coastal life you remember.

CONSTRUCTION NEARLY COMPLETE, MOVE IN AUGUST 2026.

Murwillumbah

Murwillumbah

Kristie Hoffman

Kristie Hoffman

Rob Yette

Matt Armstrong

TWEED COOLANGATTA REAL ESTATE

THISPROPERTYHAS NEVERBEEN AFFECTEDBYFLOODING

SELLER HAS PURCHASED THEIR NEW HOME - SEEKING OFFERS

Master-built, two-story, family-sized home, an easy drive to Tweed Heads & Coolanga�a.

Set on an expansive-level, 947 sqm block, this property overlooks the river and backs onto the Council reserve.

From the large formal entry through to the generous living spaces this home will

67 Tringa Street, Tweed Heads West

impress with size & privacy, high ceilings throught the home.

Boas�ng a generous layout with split level open-plan living and dining areas, there’s a separate family room with bar plus formal dining room.

The gourmet kitchen, overlooking the sunken lounge and casual dining, has views over the pool to the river.

Private outdoor oasis, complete with a

OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS: SPACIOUS, RENOVATED UNIT

First floor unit - light filled & ready for new owner.

Posi�oned in a well presented complex, close to M1, Tweed Heads & Coolanga�a facili�es.

Freshly painted with new hybrid �mber flooring throughout.

Updated kitchen with good cupboard & bench space.

Spacious in design with large open plan living & dining opening to covered balcony

Two spacious bedrooms, both with builtins & fans.

Updated bathroom, two way access

beau�ful inground pool

Five oversized bedrooms, a large family bathroom with a separate toilet

The master suite is huge with a large ensuite & walk-in robe, access to covered balcony taking in the river outlook.

Internal access from auto double lock-up garage with good storage. Separate laundry

Inspect Sat 30/05/2026 11-11.30AM

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

Kaeren Smith J.P.

Licenced Real Estate Agent

NSW & QLD 0412 454 150

kaeren.smith@tcre.net.au

from main bedroom, separate toilet & separate laundry.

Secure basement parking & secure entry with intercom access.

Just six apartments in the block with

throughout with new carpet.

Spacious open plan living & dining areas open to a large covered balcony

Kaeren Smith J.P.

Licenced Real Estate Agent NSW & QLD 0412 454 150

Main bedroom offers an ensuite, walk-in robe & access to sunny northern balcony. Family bathroom plus a large separate laundry.

Security access & secure basement parking for 2 cars.

SOLD IN ONE WEEK! THINKING OF SELLING? WE HAVE QUALIFIED BUYERS WHO MISSED OUT

Kaeren Smith J.P.

Licenced Real Estate Agent NSW & QLD 0412 454 150 kaeren.smith@tcre.net.au

JOIN A GROWING REAL ESTATE TEAM

Raine & Horne Jet is expanding, and we are currently seeking experienced, motivated, and driven Commission-Only Sales Agents to join our growing team.

If you have a minimum of 2 years real estate sales experience and are looking for the opportunity to grow your career with ongoing support, strong leadership and a professional team environment, we would love to hear from you.

WHY JOIN RAINE & HORNE Jet?

 Established and trusted brand

 Supportive and experienced team

 Ongoing training and mentoring

 Modern systems and marketing support

 Flexible working environment

 Opportunity to build your own success within a thriving market

SERVICING

Northern Rivers I Tweed Valley I Surrounding Areas

If you are passionate about real estate, motivated to succeed, and ready to take the next step in your career, contact us today for a confi dential discussion.

Mr Property Services

Broadwater - Tweed Heads

Tweed Broadwater - Tweed Heads South

Tweed Shores - Chinderah

Tweed Broadwater - Tweed Heads South

Tweed Billabong - Tweed Heads South

• Open plan living & dining w/ vinyl plank easy care floors

• Media room / home office or 5th bedroom

• Hostess kitchen w/ 900mm hot plate & oven, expansive storage & butlers pantry w/ 2nd fridge & sink

• Main bedroom w/ ensuite & large walk-in robe

• Designated study w/ built in cabinetry

• Covered alfresco entertaining & outdoor recreation areas

• Extra large double automatic garage plus additional space for caravan and or boat

• Stylish main bathroom

• Solar heated magnesium in-ground pool

• Fully fenced allotment w/ grassy section for kids swings, water tank, vegie patch/ herb garden & automatic timber security gate

• Versatile guest area w/ kitchenette

• Bedrooms 2,3&4 w/ built in mirror robes & ceiling fans

• Additional main bathroom w/ bath

• Terrace style balcony w/ sun blinds, commanding Hinterland & water views

• Fully ducted reverse cycle & zoned air-conditioning