Tweed Valley Weekly, December 1, 2022

Debate over wild dogs

By Jonathon Howard

WILD DOGS are becoming bigger and more brazen according to several local landholders, who remain concerned the spread of the animals is placing pressure on livestock farmers.

Dozens of livestock have been killed or maimed over the past 12 months, with many farmers calling for greater baiting programs and the hiring of professional shooters to curb the Tweed Shire wild dog population.

Elders Real Estate Tweed Valley owner and Fernvale farmer Craig Dudgeon re cently encountered a pack of wild dogs on his property including a large alpha. The dogs had mauled and killed two of Mr Dudgeon’s calves and a breeding cow before he was able to track and shoot the alpha dog last week.

“What was most alarming is the dog had come within a few metres of me in broad daylight,” he said.

“It emphasises just how brazen these animals are becoming.”

Mr Dudgeon said he was equally shocked by the size of the dog, which had weighed in at more than 25 kilograms.

“It was a big animal that’s clearly well fed and was not afraid to approach hu mans,” he said.

“We’re finding these animals are appear ing more during daylight hours and they appear less afraid of humans — which is a worry.

“There’s still another two dogs that were a part of a bigger pack that remain around the property.”

Local Land Services North Coast team leader of invasive pests Dean Chamberlain said wild dogs are a “major issue” across the North Coast that requires addressing.

“The Tweed and north of Lismore ap pear to have high wild dog activity at the moment,” he said.

“It is the view of Local Land Services North Coast that we continue to imple ment our management plan which in cludes baiting with 1080.

“We work with stakeholders to set up coordinated ground baiting programs.

“Coordinated ground baiting programs are the most cost-effective and efficient way of removing these dogs from the wild and reducing impact to livestock.”

Mr Chamberlain acknowledged the con cerns about native species being impacted by 1080 ground baits, but he stressed that the baits are “extremely targeted”.

“There’s been a lot of trials undertaken to ensure the least impact to native species from 1080 bait,” he said.

“Native species are very tolerant to these baits which are specifically targeted at dogs, foxes and some feral cats.”

Mr Chamberlain commented on con

cerns and discussions around recent re search regarding wild dogs versus native dingoes.

“The legislation dictates that where there is a risk and/or impact, such as attacks on livestock, there’s a responsibility on all landholders and managers to address that risk and impact,” he said.

“That means we need to address the problem on a landscape basis, which means culling of wild dogs.

“This species is not at risk of becoming endangered, on the contrary, it is becom ing more of an issue through increased numbers.

“The wild dogs across the North Coast are predominantly hybridised and more domestic dogs interacting with dingoes.”

The dingo has evolved from a SouthEast Asian dog believed to have been in troduced to Australia more than 6,000 years ago.

Mr Chamberlain acknowledged that this makes dingoes native to Australia.

“However, the issue relates to the im pacts and increasing numbers of the wild dogs, which we know are increasing and therefore require control,” he said.

Uki resident Ken Rippin wrote to The Weekly following the article “Wild dogs are out of control” and questioned the use of the term ‘wild dog’ rather than ‘dingo’.

Mr Rippin referred to a recent study car ried out by the University of NSW which involved DNA testing of 800 wild dogs culled across the state. The study found that 25 per cent were pure dingoes, 75 per cent were dingo-dominant hybrids and less than one per cent were pure feral dogs.

“The study also put an end to the idea that if the animal didn’t have the classic sandy coloured coat, it wasn’t a dingo — the DNA testing showed that pure dingoes can be sandy, black, white, tan, patchy or black and tan,” Mr Rippin said.

“We should call a spade a spade — we are attempting to exterminate a native animal.

“No one would dispute the fact that

Accommodation support after storms and floods

these animals are responsible for livestock deaths in our area. But there is another side to this — studies have shown that dingoes significantly reduce the numbers of foxes and feral cats, which in itself is a plus for preservation of wildlife.

“In other countries where there is a clash between native predators and livestock (example wolves in Europe and near Yellowstone National Park, USA) it is common to use guardian animals (such as Maremma sheepdogs) and there are government sponsored programs to com pensate farmers for stock losses.

“Rather than focus on the extermination of this native animal, we should look at how other countries manage this predic ament.”

The Dog Problem

(Extract from the National Wild Dog Action Plan)

W ild dog attacks on livestock conser vatively cost the Australian economy upwards of $89 million a year in lost production and control costs — but the impacts don’t stop there.

Producers lose enterprise choice — farming small stock (sheep and goats) is unsustainable in areas where wild dog numbers are excessive.

Wild dogs cost jobs and livelihoods for many in the Australian agricultural sector.

Each year millions of dollars’ worth of livestock are killed or maimed by wild dogs. In western Queensland alone, the re gion has seen a 75 per cent drop in sheep numbers and this affects the social and economic fabric of rural communities.

Prolonged wild dog attacks on livestock can cause serious emotional and psycho logical damage to rural families and their communities (ABARES 2014). Our fau na is unique to the world and for some species excessive predation by wild dogs risks their extinction.

YOUR THOUGHTS: Do you have an issue with wild dogs on your property? Or would you like to share your views? Please send your thoughts and letters to editor@ theweekly.net.au

If your home has been damaged in the floods you may be able to live in a caravan on your property.

The NSW Government at-home caravan program will provide you with a temporary caravan.

This means you can live on-site while your home is repaired and will help you stay connected to your neighbours and community.

To find out if you’re eligible for the at-home caravan program and start the application process today. Visit nsw.gov.au/caravan

Should wild dogs be protected?

BIG AND BRAZEN: A local landholder shot this wild alpha dog on his property recently

CONGRATULATIONS

Sad times for our school

This is indeed a sad time for the Tweed Shire as one of Murwillum bah’s great educational institutions will soon be no more.

Murwillumbah High School has educated generations of students for many years. My wife and I and our four children were once students at the school.

It has a proud history of being a cornerstone of our community. So why has it come to this? Why is such a fine school now to be largely de molished?

It is due to the decisions of an ar rogant state government that hasn’t listened to the voices of the commu nity and it is the result of years of neglect of public education by the Australian Government through its funding policies.

You would think that looking after and nurturing the public provision of education would be any government’s priority, but not in this country.

Now the remaining students of Murwillumbah High School are to go to Wollumbin High School until a new school is built and ready for occupation.

When the new school is finally ready other fine public educational institutions will be shut down leaving only one public school site in our town. What a shame!

Christiaan Goudkamp, Murwil lumbah

Livid over rail trail

Regarding Mike Yarrows’ let ter (TVW, November 17) on the backward thinking of Tweed Shire Council’s decision to destroy the rail line built over a 100 years ago by hard-working people to put in a bike path for the lycra-clad minority. We could have retained the rail line and put in a jigger, a pedal, or arm powered rail cart through the area that tourists and locals alike could enjoy.

I was a councillor with both Brigh ton and Bayside councils in Victoria

Why You Need Solar & Batteries Now!

Power Prices Rise by 18%

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

Feed in Tariffs for Solar Crash

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

and never would have made such a backward decision, in my view.

Let’s look forward to seeing a new railway line up through Pottsville and Kingscliff to the Gold Coast as the perfect replacement, just like the free way, bypassing our beautiful towns of Murwillumbah and surrounding areas.

Libby Francis, Uki

Survey was invalid

In the Letters page (TVW Novem ber 17), Mike Yarrow refers to a “survey” and petition coordinated by local railway advocates, which was presented to the Tweed Shire Council but not “accepted”.

The petition was rushed in as a late agenda item and in fact was not eligible to be “accepted” by council because “acceptance” requires due process involving the validation of the names and addresses against council records.

As such the petition was “acknowl edged” by the council, which was the only possible lawful response other than to reject it.

The “survey” was supposedly con ducted of local businesses. It was re vealed that it did not even include any verification of whether the respon dent was in fact the business operator or eligible to provide a response on behalf of the business.

The “survey” was simply an ex ercise in confirmation bias by rail advocates pressuring staff working at the premises. It was rejected by a clear majority of councillors.

Responses sought for both docu ments were in the context of a false narrative about the trail being able to be built alongside the railway.

The methodology was fundamen tally flawed, responses coached and the findings utterly worthless.

In fact, they represent support for the trail because the respondents ac tually acknowledged the trail should be built.

They didn’t dare ask if people wanted the trail project abandoned, leaving the ratepayers to pick up the

tab for more than a million dollars already spent on the basis of deci sions made by successive councils over three terms and still upheld to this day.

In any case, even if the thousand signatures had been verified as those of residents, that number represents about two percent of the shire’s vot ing population.

Remarkably consistent with the two percent vote received in the lo cal government election by the only team that conspicuously promoted a policy of saving the railway. That is definitely an insignificant minority group.

Regardless of how long Mr Yarrow and his friends have complained about the trail, the fact remains that the trail has been built and it is utterly pointless to continue whining about it because it won’t change anything.

Greg Clitheroe, Murwillumbah

The stroke of a pen

The big news last Friday was Justice Bell’s report on her inquiry into Scott Morrison secretly becoming head of half of the Commonwealth Depart ments in Australia during 2022/21 — health, finance and resources, home affairs, treasury and industry, health and finance, home affairs, science and resources — whilst holding top Cabinet job of Prime Minister of Australia.

When Morrison had finished this subterfuge, not even his own Cabinet knew.

All of which makes Chinese Com munist Party Premier Xi’s recent ap pointment to a third five-year term by amending the Constitution, look small change.

Bell’s report gave Scott Morrison (still a sitting Liberal MP) a small ‘wrap over the knuckles’ and incred ibly found that no criticism should be directed towards the Governor General who actually (in secret) signed into law all of Morrison’s ap pointments over a 12-month period.

So, the takeaway is that an Austra lian Prime Minister with a compliant

Test Drive a Nissan Leaf EV! We have 24, 30 & 40 kWh cars at half the new price.

The Best Technology in Solar Power, Off Grid, Residential & Business

Governor General in total secrecy can have himself appointed as head of every single government depart ment in Australia if ‘he advises it’ without even telling his own Cabinet? Effectively giving himself total con trol over the Australian Government with the stroke of the GG’s pen.

I thought the role of Governor Gen eral of Australia was one of ultimate oversight, having been appointed by the Monarch no less in the traditions of responsible constitutional govern ment?

Whilst Bell’s report recommended any such future appointments be ad vertised in the Government Gazette, no recommendation was made to pre vent a Prime Minister doing exactly the same thing again in the future.

In fact, she noted Morrison could have made such appointments in a matter of minutes had he needed to.

If ever this country needed proper constitutional mechanisms in place, it’s over the next 10 years, or should that be five years, because that’s how long Xi’s next term is?

Terry Sharples, Tweed Heads

Punishing the poor

Brian Bycroft’s letter (TVW Novem ber 24) would please China, which showcases its renewables and prom ises net zero while rapidly ramping emissions, playing climate poker with the West, weakening it before taking Taiwan.

Putin likewise lured Europe into dependence on Russian gas, as backup to renewables, before invading Ukraine. The International Energy Agency, established after the 1973 oil shock to maintain international supply, recently revised its mission statement to promote renewable ener gy sources, so its head defends them.

I learned to be wary of world ex perts when a US authority on blood spatter offered to support my foren sic study which reopened a 1967 attempted murder conviction.

When Legal Aid could not afford his fee, the Crown engaged him to op pose my evidence. Preferring sound

science to expert opinion, Justice Loveday acquitted McLeod-Lindsay in 1991. For the record, I distrust Trump but give credit where it’s due; his energy policies were better than Biden’s for lowering prices and emissions; when demand exceeds supply, the cost of energy and hence almost everything goes up. Germany is returning to coal while we aban don it and pay higher power prices.

If we fail to objectively evaluate all evidence and arguments for and against a climate crisis and proposed responses, misguided action could cripple the country, ruin the regions, and punish the poor with rampant inflation so city elites can feel virtu ous in their Chinese EVs.

D Weston Allen, Cudgen Murwillumbah East Rainbow Run

To our wonderful local small busi ness, Murwillumbah East P&C As sociation will be holding our annual Rainbow Run fundraiser this term.

The Rainbow Run is the P&C’s big gest fundraising event of the year, with students raising more than $4,600 last year. All funds raised are spent directly on projects and programs that support our students.

The Rainbow Run would not be possible without the generosity of our local small business. We really are fortunate to be a part of such a giving community. We were over whelmed with the support from our local businesses and ask that you consider donating a prize again this year. This prize will contribute to the raffle for participating students. Thank you so much for supporting our wonderful school.

Kylie Rose, (Murwillumbah East P&C president)

Please note the views on the letters page are that of the letter writer and not of the Tweed Valley Weekly. Letters must include a suburb and contact number for verification. Letters may be edited for length or legal reasons. Send your letters to editor@theweekly. net.au.

Council slams merger plans

By Jonathon Howard

WAS a

week for many former Murwillumbah High School students who gathered at the school on Friday, November 25, to bid it a final farewell.

Despite the wishes of many residents, plans are pushing ahead for the school merger, which will see the closure of Murwillumbah’s four public schools to create one main campus for primary and secondary school students at the former Murwillumbah High site.

Murwillumbah High will close to en rolments in 2023 and students will shift temporarily to Wollumbin High School to make way for construction.

Many questions still remain around the development and Tweed Shire Councillors are due to discuss and vote on Council’s submission to the Department of Planning and Environment during their monthly meeting this week.

Council’s report on the merger raises a range of issues from a lack of informa tion, consultation and parking worries, to concerns for the removal of 158 trees.

Council’s submission highlights the scale of the redevelopment of Murwillumbah High into the Murwillumbah Education Campus (MEC), which includes the re moval of 11 school buildings to make way for the construction of four new educa tional buildings.

The proposed development comprises demolition of in-ground building slabs, pathways and footings of buildings B, C, D, G, H, M, P, S, AW and AZ, as well as demolition of existing building E.

This is followed by the construction of four new educational buildings and facil ities and retention and refurbishment of building A (a local heritage item) and Building F.

The report highlights that about 1,296 students are currently enrolled across the four school sites and the new campus will provide capacity for a total of 1,722 stu dents, an increase of 426 students com pared to current enrolment numbers across the four schools once the campus is at full capacity.

Council’s report notes that 158 trees are scheduled for removal to facilitate the campus proposal, including some trees that are endangered and threatened species.

“We express particular concern over the removal of the mature hoop pines which were planted by celebrated conservationist Bruce Chick and are slated for removal to fulfil asset protection zone requirements, and we request alternative solutions are considered,” the report reads.

Council’s report also noted that it was again inviting the NSW Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell to meet with community representatives, Parents & Citizens, students, and families affected by the decision to close the four public schools in Murwillumbah.

“Council notes that it is now two years since the Minister announced this deci sion in Murwillumbah without prior con sultation with the community,” Council’s report reads.

“Council’s review of the Supplementary RTS (Response to Submissions) has identified a number of concerns largely relating to traffic and parking.

“The draft submission concludes that the proposed development is formally objected to, noting that Council officers will be providing a set of draft conditions, should the Minister determine to approve the application.

“Given that Council has raised a formal objection to the proposal, the State Sig nificant Development will be determined by the Minister of Planning.

“The submission also includes a note that Council will be providing a set of draft conditions of consent for the De partment’s consideration should the ap plication be recommended for approval without any further consultation with Council.”

Past Murwillumbah High students visited their old school yard for the last time

What’s the law on landlords collecting data on tenants

With a nationwide shortage of properties available to rent, prospective tenants are facing increasing demands from landlords and their agents for more and more detailed information on their finances and personal background.

There are reports that some agents are demanding social media accounts, children’s names, pet profiles and names and addresses of relatives during background checks. This is on top of the standard requirements of multiple identification documents, bank statements, past utility bills, employment details and rental history.

According to an ABC report, some rental applicants are even being pressured to pay agents for their own background checks.

Lawyer Anneka Frayne of Stacks Law Firm said agents or landlords who demand applicants pay for background checks on themselves would appear to be contravening the NSW Residential Tenancies Act 2010.

“Sections 23 and 32 of the tenancies legislation limits amounts payable by the tenant before signing an agreement to a holding fee, rent, a rental bond and a fee payable for registration of a residential tenancy agreement, if it is required. “It states a person must not require or receive from a tenant an amount for the costs of preparation of a written residential tenancy agreement. Offenders of this section are liable for a maximum penalty of $2,200.”

“Many people seeking a place to rent would feel they have little choice in the current housing crisis but to accede to requests from landlords for sensitive personal information and unreasonable, even illegal, demands to pay for their own background checks.

“Tenants, landlords and their agents need to be aware of the law in this regard. There is growing pressure on the government to have a standard form of tenancy application that asks reasonable questions,” Ms Frayne said.

Dr Chris Martin of the University of NSW City Futures Research Centre says the ability of real estate agents and landlords to collect vast amounts of sensitive information is a significant concern as cyberattacks increase, and it was time governments regulated data collection in the rental sector.

“They’re collecting a lot more personal information, with arguably not a whole lot of purpose behind it,” Dr Martin said on the UNSW website. “It’s a big risk if all of that information falls into the wrong hands.”

Real estate firm Harcourts Melbourne City recently revealed a cyberattack may have compromised identity documents and other details it holds on its clients and tenants.

Collecting personal data from tenants left them vulnerable to identity theft, with individual landlords and some smaller agencies not covered by Australian Privacy Principles which govern the management of collected personal information.

Responsibility for comment is taken by Stacks Law Firm

Vote on Telstra monopole

By Jonathon Howard

TWEED SHIRE Councillors are set to vote this week on the proposed construc tion of a new 31.4-metre telecommunica tions monopole adjacent to the Kingscliff Hill water reservoirs on the corner of Dinsey and Faulks streets.

The development application calls for the removal of the current telecommuni cations equipment from Council’s water reservoirs and to replace them with a monopole adjacent to the reservoirs on Council land.

A development application was sub mitted to Council’s Planning Committee Meeting in early October, but councillors resolved to defer the matter to a workshop.

The workshop raised a range of matters with the proponent, Telstra, including that Council requires the existing telecommu nication facilities to be removed from the reservoirs to enable Council employees to operate its local water utilities functions.

However, Council stressed a need to maintain phone service coverage across Kingscliff.

“Given the loss of service during the 2022 flood event, it is noted that service coverage is critical not only to meet the day-to-day needs of residents and local businesses but to also enable access to emergency services when it is most need ed,” Council’s report reads.

Council is therefore recommending the tower be approved and constructed on Council-owned land adjacent to the two water reservoirs.

“Following the workshop, Council of

ficers’ recommendation to approve the application subject to conditions remain unchanged,” Council’s report reads.

The Kingscliff Hill monopole has raised some concerns from residents, which were voiced during an information session in late February 2019, where representatives from Telstra and their consultants attend ed, as well as an independent electromag netic energy (EME) expert.

About 12 residents attended the commu nity session and concerns raised included visual amenity and noise impacts, electro magnetic emissions and health, concerns regarding 5G technology, and impact on nearby property values.

Council’s report raised the matter of EME exposure and stated it had been “reviewed in court numerous times”.

“And it has always been found that there are no credible grounds for individuals to challenge standards agreed by both

Australian and international authorities with special expertise,” the report reads.

“It is noted that the operating frequen cies of the 5G network are included within the limits set by the ARPANSA (Austra lian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency) safety standard.

“ARPANSA states the following with regards to 5G: ‘ARPANSA is aware that there is a lot of concerning misinforma tion circulating throughout the commu nity about the possible impacts of Aus tralia’s planned roll- out of the 5G mobile network. Contrary to some claims, there are no established health effects from the radio waves that the 5G network uses’.”

Councillors have two options: to ap prove the removal and replacement of the phone tower with conditions, or to refuse the phone tower. Council staff are recom mending approval.

Man busted with drugs

A GOLD Coast man has been charged with a number of drug offences after being pulled over in a traffic operation at Tweed Heads South on Sunday, November 27.

The 24-year-old from Robina was caught with cocaine, methylamphetamine (ice), MDMA, over 700 steroid tablets, drug paraphernalia and $3,135 cash, discovered during a search of his car.

The bust took place at about 2am, when officers from Tweed-Byron Traffic and Highway Patrol Command were con ducting Traffic Operation Fume, aimed

at targeting drink and drug drivers across the state.

They stopped the man’s car in Oxley Street, Tweed Heads South, and “had cause to conduct a search”.

The prohibited items were discovered and the man was arrested.

He was taken to Tweed Heads Police Station where he was charged with the supply of a prohibited drug, possessing a prohibited drug, possessing steroids and dealing with property suspected of being the proceeds of crime.

A mobile phone tower on Council's water tanks need to go and a monopole installed

The man was refused bail and appeared before the Lismore Local Court the same day via audio visual link.

Tweed Link

Last week we each used 186L a day

as at 28 November 2022

Brief counter closure

Council's front counters at Tweed Heads and Murwillumbah will be closed from 11 am on Thursday 8 December.

Please phone 02 6670 2400 for any urgent Council matters or visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/contact-us for other ways to contact Council.

The front counters re-open at 9 am on Friday 9 December.

Reminder to jump onto the Cane Toad Challenge

Three upcoming cane toad busting challenges will be held across the Tweed throughout the cane toad season.

Council in partnership with Watergum are working with the community to get rid of the pest from the environment. The first weeklong challenge starts on Monday 12 December. Log your catch and join the toad busting fun from your own home!

Find out more about how to get involved and what to do at tweed.nsw.gov.au/cane-toads. Here you will also find a video about how to correctly identify cane toads and humanely euthanise them. For more information contact canetoads@watergum.org

Tell us about your climate change views

Clarrie Hall Dam not for flood mitigation

Following community feedback, Tweed Shire Council has clarified when and how Council releases water from Clarrie Hall Dam.

The details are outlined in Council’s new Clarrie Hall Dam Water Release Policy, developed in consultation with the community with all residents invited to provide feedback.

Water and Wastewater operations manager Brie Jowett said the policy clarifies that Council cannot control water that spills from the dam once the water level in the dam reaches the spillway.

“The dam is built with an open, un-gated spillway. Its design is for storing water for drinking, not to mitigate against flooding,” Mrs Jowett said.

“Tweed Shire Council will not manage the reservoir level by prereleasing water ahead of rainfall events to provide any form of storage capacity for flood-mitigation purposes.

“When the dam fills during intense rainfall events, it is designed to safely pass the excess water into Doon Doon Creek and then the Tweed River. This spilling cannot be controlled.”

There are plans to raise the wall of Clarrie Hall Dam to increase the volume of water that can be stored, securing the Tweed’s water supply in the face of climate change and population growth.

Mrs Jowett said the dam’s size and location meant any upgrade would not alter its purpose.

“We live in one of the highest rainfall areas on the east coast of the nation, which has eroded the Tweed caldera over millions of years and carved out the natural beauty that is the Tweed Valley,” she said.

“We must acknowledge the dam’s catchment takes in less than 6% of the overall catchment area of the Tweed River and our upstream creeks and rivers.

“To have any impact on mitigating flooding, a drastically bigger dam would be needed. However, the proposed dam upgrade for water supply purposes is the maximum feasible size for a dam at this location.”

Mrs Jowett added one dam would offer little protection.

“We would need several very large dams to capture rainfall that feeds the Tweed, Oxley and Rous Rivers,” she said.

“Previous flood studies have shown large dams at those locations would not be practical.”

Access the policy from tweed.nsw.gov.au/policies Head to tweed.nsw.gov.au/clarrie-hall-dam to find out more about Clarrie Hall Dam.

Flood recovery update 30 November 2022

Scenic Drive

Bilambil Heights residents and motorists using Scenic Drive are advised that from Thursday, there will be a change in road conditions (weather permitting).

Contractor Australian Marine and Civil Pty Ltd (AMC), will be sealing the new restored section of road at site B, the major slip on Scenic Drive on Thursday morning.

Once completed, traffic will switch lanes on Thursday afternoon so that stormwater drainage work can be carried out on the northern side of the existing lane.

This work is expected to take about 2 weeks.

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

Further work will involve kerb and guttering, batter works, guard rail instalment and line marking.

On the eastern slip, site A, foundation works have commenced. Boring of concrete support piles has commenced and this will be followed by building the retaining structure.

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

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

Motorists are advised to expect extended delays between 9 am and 3 pm as contractors bring in material and equipment.

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

AMC’s original time schedule is planned for all works to be completed by the end of March 2023.

Given good progress to date, work is highly likely to be finalised

earlier (weather permitting). Council will continue to provide updates as more information comes to hand.

For more information on these and other repairs, visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/flood-recovery-works Zara Road

Contractors have completed road reconstruction along Zara Road between Bald Mountain Road and Astron Road.

The works included road pavement stabilisation and application of bitumen seal.

Line marking on the new sections of road have also been completed. Numinbah Road

Council is continuing with flood recovery works on Numinbah Road between Murwillumbah and Chillingham.

Road reconstruction between Chillingham village and Chilcotts Road and on Numinbah Road near Marken Place have been completed.

Council crews are undertaking drainage, road widening and complete reconstruction of the section of road near Crooks Valley Road and this is expected to be completed by mid-December.

While we’re not expecting to close these sections of road, there will be lane closures which may cause 5–10 minute delays.

Line marking has been carried out on new sections of Numinbah Road.

There will also be a number of individual flood repairs at various locations that will be carried out over the coming months – these will include repairs to culverts and embankment and will generally be smaller isolated worksites that will have only minor impacts to traffic flow.

Subscribe to the Tweed Link for current Flood Recovery updates. You can also follow Council’s progress in flood recovery works through weekly updates at tweed.nsw.gov.au/flood-recovery-update

Council has engaged Griffith University to find out how the Tweed community wants to be supported to act on climate-related events, reduce its greenhouse gas emissions footprint and be prepared for local climate risks and impacts.

All Tweed Shire residents, 18 years and older, are invited to have their say in a community survey to understand residents’ knowledge and experiences with climate impacts as well as the actions residents already do or want to take in the future.

Residents who participate in the survey before 5pm Monday 30 January 2023 will enter a draw to win an eco-friendly gift basket of products worth over $500 donated by local Tweed businesses or 4 runner-up prizes of $100 Love the Tweed vouchers to use locally.

The project has been made possible by grant funding from the Australian Government with seed funding through the Griffith University.

To complete the survey, visit yoursaytweed.com.au/climate-readytweed-project-have-your-say

Tweed named climate change leader

Tweed Shire Council has been recognised by the Climate Disclosure Platform (CDP) as one of 122 cities across the globe for taking bold leadership on environmental action and transparency, despite the pressures of a challenging global economic situation.

A List cities build climate momentum, taking twice as many climate mitigation and adaptation measures as non-A Listers.

Only 12% of the 1,000+ cities that were scored in 2022 received an A score.

The Tweed was recognised as just one of 6 cities in the Oceania region to achieve the highest score by the CDP, with the others being Yarra City Council, City of Adelaide, City of Sydney and Canberra in Australia, as well as Wellington in New Zealand.

To find out more, visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/latest-news

Tweed

As the Clarrie Hall Dam fills during intense rainfall events, it is designed to safely pass the excess water into Doon Doon Creek and then the Tweed River. This spilling cannot be controlled.

Helping to conserve the Tweed's ancient Gondwana rainforest in the Numinbah Nature Reserve is a critical element of Council's fight against climate change.

Have your say

Add your voice to decision making in the Tweed

Proposed classification of Council-owned land Amber Road

Tweed Shire Council has recently acquired Lot 12 in Deposited Plan 258721 (1 Amber Road, Tweed Heads South). The lot is outlined in the location diagram shown below.

Council proposes to classify the land as operational land in accordance with the provisions of section 31(2) of the Local Government Act 1993 (NSW). The reason for the classification of the land as operational is for the use of the site for Council’s sewer pump station.

Proposed Licence of Council-managed Crown Land

Council proposes to enter into a new one-year licence agreement with Pottsville Beach Community Hall Inc.

In accordance with section 47 of the Local Government Act 1993 (NSW), Tweed Shire Council as Crown Land Manager under the Crown Lands Management Act 2016 (NSW) proposes to grant a licence in respect of Council-managed Crown land.

The land has previously been managed by the Pottsville Beach Community Hall Inc, and the previous agreement has expired. Council now proposes to enter into a new one year licence agreement with them for their use of the premises. Under the Crown Lands Management Act, Council is currently only able to offer a one year licence of the premises.

Temporary lookout closure

Tom Beetson Lookout/Razorback, will be closed from Monday 5 December - Friday 9 December (weather permitting) to allow for maintenance works on a hut that houses

Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) communication assets.

The park and lookout will be closed to the public, with temporary security fencing and signage in place at the bottom of the access ramp.

The public is advised to avoid the area. We thank you for your patience while these works are undertaken.

Don’t be fined: keep your dogs on-leash

Locals and visitors are reminded to keep their dogs on-leash in public places, as Council continues to target non-compliance through its Take the Lead program.

Take the Lead is designed to help protect our local wildlife and to make sure beaches are safe and enjoyable for people and other pets too.

Since the program launched in early October 2022, Council Rangers have issued 80 fines to dog owners at $330 per fine.

Rangers will continue to partner with Tweed/Byron police to patrol multiple areas along the coast, from Fingal Head down to Wooyung Beach. At all targeted locations people are required to have their dogs on a lead unless in a designated off-leash area.

Council’s Natural Area Ranger Wayne Haayer said it was best to consider all areas as on-leash unless sign posted otherwise.

“The best way to understand the regulations is to consider the whole of NSW as an on-leash area,” he said.

“The only time you can have your dog off-leash is when you see a sign saying you are in an off-leash area. Also look out for signs where dogs are prohibited.”

Signs are displayed at the entrances to designated off-leash areas, including off-leash beaches such as South Fingal Head / Kingscliff Beach, South Kingscliff Beach, Cabarita Beach and South Pottsville Beach. Find out where the off-leash areas are located at on Council’s website at tweed.nsw.gov.au/where-can-I-walk-my-dog

Council’s Project Officer for Wildlife Protection Emily Clarke said the program was running well, but there was still room for improvement.

Have your say

Visit yoursaytweed.com.au/land-classification-amber-road to learn more and make a submission.

All interested persons are invited to make submissions concerning the proposal within 28 days of this notice to the General Manager, Tweed Shire Council, PO Box 816 Murwillumbah 2484 or email tsc@tweed.nsw.gov.au

Council ref: P1 Amber Road

Enquiries: Jennie Stephenson, Technical Officer - Property Phone: (02) 6670 2769

Proposed classification of land Cabarita Road

Tweed Shire Council is in the process of acquiring Lot 101 DP261914 (Cabarita Road, Bogangar). The lot is outlined in light blue in the location diagram shown below.

Council proposes to classify the land as operational land in accordance with the provisions of section 31(2) of the Local Government Act 1993 (NSW). The reason for the classification of the land as operational is for Council’s sewer rising main, sewage and wastewater operations.

Have your say

Visit yoursaytweed.com.au/proposed-licence-pottsville to learn more and make a submission.

All interested persons are invited to make submissions concerning the proposal within 28 days of this notice to the General Manager, Tweed Shire Council, PO Box 816 Murwillumbah 2484 or email tsc@tweed.nsw.gov.au

Please note that under the provisions of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (NSW), such submissions may be referred to third parties for consideration.

Property: Lot 447 DP755701, Crown Reserve 63717 as outlined in the location diagram shown below. Term: 1 Year.

Permitted Use: Public Recreation and Resting Place (as per Crown Reserve dedicated purposes).

Licensee: Pottsville Beach Community Hall Incorporated. Council ref: PN: 23512

Licence: Pottsville Beach Community Hall Inc. Enquiries: Jennie Stephenson, Technical Officer - Property Phone: (02) 6670 2400

Proposed resolution to classify land Cudgen

Tweed Shire Council is in the process of acquiring Proposed Lot 38 in in a plan of subdivision of Lots 1 & 2 in DP828298 for a Drainage Reserve.

The lot is outlined in the location diagram shown below. Council proposes to resolve to classify the land as Operational land in accordance with the provisions of section 31(2) of the Local Government Act 1993.

“When we conducted observations of dog walkers in these locations last year, we found close to 74% of people were exercising their dogs off leash,” Ms Clarke said.

“Since we’ve been running the Take the Lead program and issuing fines, we’ve seen that figure drop to just above 60% so we still have a long way to go.

Our officers, in partnership with Tweed Byron Police, will be continuing to conduct a targeted enforcement program and issuing fines.”

This program has been assisted by the NSW Government through its Environmental Trust.

New shared user path to improve pedestrian safety

As part of Council’s commitment to a safe and connected active community, Council will soon be constructing a new concrete shared user path from Kennedy Drive to the Terranora inlet bridge. Manager Roads and Stormwater Danny Rose said the 2-metre wide shared user path will connect Tweed Head and Tweed Heads West to Tweed Heads South.

“These works are creating a safer pedestrian connections for children, their parents and carers and the wider school community,” Mr Rose said.

“The new paths will be constructed along Blue Waters Crescent in Tweed Heads and Shearwater Parade in Tweed Heads West.

These improvements can help save lives by giving pedestrians safe route options when walking or cycling to and from school.”

Funded under the Australian and NSW governments’ School Zone Infrastructure Sub Program, the works will take about 2 months to complete and are scheduled to start in late November, weather permitting.

There will be temporary footpath closures. On some days, on street parking will be restricted to allow for concrete pouring.

For updates visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/roadworks

To learn more about how we build, upgrade and maintain a safe and connected local road network, including how we prioritise road maintenance projects, visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/roads

Have your say

Visit yoursaytweed.com.au/land-classification-cabarita-road to learn more and make a submission.

All interested persons are invited to make submissions concerning the proposal within 28 days of this notice to the General Manager, Tweed Shire Council, PO Box 816 Murwillumbah 2484 or email tsc@tweed.nsw.gov.au

Council ref: PN:112007; Cabarita Road

Enquiries: Jennie Stephenson, Technical Officer - Property Phone: (02) 6670 2769

Have your say

Visit www.yoursaytweed.com.au/classify-land-cudgen to learn more and make a submission.

All interested persons are invited to make submissions concerning the proposal within 28 days of this notice to the General Manager, Tweed Shire Council, PO Box 816 Murwillumbah 2484 or email propertyofficer@tweed.nsw.gov.au

Enquiries: Sally Curran, Technical Officer - Property Phone: (02) 6670 2400

yoursaytweed.com.au

Planning Committee meeting agenda

Thursday 1 December 2022

The Planning Committee meeting Agenda for Thursday 1 December 2022 is available on Council’s website at tweed.nsw.gov.au/council-meetings The meeting will be held at the Council Chambers, Murwillumbah Civic and Cultural Centre, Tumbulgum Road, Murwillumbah commencing at 3:30 pm.

Agenda Reports for consideration

Planning and Regulation

8.1 Development Application DA21/0950 for the demolition of existing structures and construction of a residential flat building (6 x 3 bedroom units) and (1 x 4 bedroom unit), swimming pool and basement car parking at Lot 356 DP 755701 No. 15 Murphys Road, Kingscliff and vegetation works at Lot 3 DP 1276752 Marine Parade Kingscliff

8.2 Development Application DA21/0021 for a residential flat building comprising 2 x 1-bedroom units, 24 x 2-bedroom units, 2 x 3-bedroom units at Lot 2 DP 360543 No. 1 Brett Street, Tweed Heads; Lot 1 DP 360543 No. 26 Recreation Street, Tweed Heads

8.3 Development Application DA21/0673 for a telecommunications facility at Lot 115 DP 241663 Faulks Street, Kingscliff; Lot 101 DP 31539; McPhail Avenue, Kingscliff

8.4 Tweed Shire Council (TSC) Submission to the Department of Planning and Environment (DPE) on the proposed Murwillumbah Education Campus (SSD-16848913)

Council meeting agenda Thursday 1 December 2022

The Council meeting agenda for Thursday 1 December 2022 is available on Council’s website at tweed.nsw.gov.au/council-meetings. The meeting will be held at the Council Chambers, Murwillumbah Civic and Cultural Centre, Tumbulgum Road, Murwillumbah commencing at the conclusion of the Planning Committee meeting.

Agenda Reports for consideration

Confirmation of minutes

3.1 Adoption of Recommendations from Planning Committee meeting held Thursday 3 November 2022

Sustainable Communities and Environment

13.1 Request by Chillingham Community Association to waive annual rent charges for the Chillingham Community Centre

Engineering

14.1 Draft Tweed River Area Unregulated and Alluvial Water Sharing Plan 2023

14.2 Draft Regional Water Strategy - Far North Coast Shortlisted Actions - Consultation Paper

14.3 Amendment to Section 7.11 Plan No 7 - West Kingscliff

14.4 Section 7.11 Contribution Plan No. 15 – Developer Contributions for Community Facilities (Version 7) - Adoption

Corporate Services

15.1 Local Government Remuneration Tribunal Submission 2023

15.2 Code of Meeting Practice Policy

Sub-Committees/Working groups

16.1 Minutes of the Tweed Coast and Waterways Advisory Committee Meeting held Wednesday 12 October 2022

16.2 Minutes of the Tweed Regional Museum Advisory Committee Meeting held Wednesday 19 October 2022

Confidential items for consideration

Planning and regulation in committee

21.1 Tweed Mall Design Review Panel Update

Sustainable Communities and Environment in Committee

22.1 Proposed Lease to Seaside Shelter Inc of Council-managed Crown Land at 7 Faulkner Street, Tweed Heads South (Lot 8 DP249970)

At its meeting on 18 March 2021 Council resolved to resume public attendance for Public Forum in line with the meeting room’s COVID-safe plan and a Planning Committee Public Forum is for speakers on agenda items being considered will be held at 2:30 pm prior to the meeting.

The agenda for the meeting, which may also include any late or supplementary reports, will be updated prior to the date of the meeting and is available on Council’s website.

It should be noted that confidential items are considered in closed session, which excludes media and public. Also, the minutes of these meetings will be available as soon as practical following the meetings and are unconfirmed until they are formally adopted at the next Council meeting.

Please be aware that these meetings are webcast and will be available on Council’s website following the meeting.

Current vacancies

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

DA21/0924 - Boundary adjustment

Lot 10DP 1254897, Lot 1 DP 118788, No. 221A Terranora Road, Banora Point

DA22/0434 - Pontoon Lot 87 DP 263367, Lot 32 DP 263366, No. 8 Commodore Court, Banora Point

DA21/1035 - Secondary dwelling & swimming pool Lot 10 DP 818973, No. 50 Cabarita Road, Bogangar

DA22/0027 - Roofed deck addition to existing secondary dwelling Lot 17 DP 838549, No. 764 Terranora Road, Terranora

DA22/0155 - Two lot strata subdivision

Lot 6DP 1264394, No. 85 Henry Lawson Drive, Terranora

DA21/0804 - Alterations and additions to existing dwelling including a partial second storey addition, alfresco area, demolition work, a swimming pool and a boat ramp

Lot 40 DP 260022, No. 3 Diamond Place, Tweed Heads

DA22/0464 - Partial in-ground swimming pool Lot 114 DP 31041, No. 4 Tweed Street, Bilambil Heights

DA22/0413 - Alterations and additions to existing dwelling Lot 182 DP 1064327, No. 21 Riberry Drive, Casuarina

DA22/0489 - Roof replacement

SP 81047, No. 685-707 Casuarina Way, Casuarina

DA22/0644 - In-ground swimming pool

Lot 217 DP 1202098, No. 6 Central Park Lane, Casuarina

DA22/0302 - Addition to existing farm building

Lot 11 DP 607679, No. 768 Clothiers Creek Road, Clothiers Creek DA22/0041 - Alterations and additions to existing dwelling and new swimming pool

Lot 242DP 1075207, No. 41 Longboard Circuit, Kingscliff DA22/0631 - In-ground swimming pool Lot 190DP 1232786, No. 19 Nautilus Way, Kingscliff DA22/0565 - Verandah extension

Lot A DP 35831, No. 35 William Street, Murwillumbah DA22/0632 - Spa pool

Lot 7 DP 868655, No. 26 Eva Crescent, Piggabeen DA22/0502 - Alterations and additions including detached garage and portico

Lot 152 DP 806528, No. 17 Balmoral Street, Pottsville DA22/0570 - In-ground swimming pool and use of a retaining wall Lot 411 DP 1052083, No. 41 Macadamia Drive, Pottsville DA22/0548 - Alterations and additions to existing dwelling Lot 203 DP 1002266, No. 30 Tanglewood Drive, Tanglewood DA22/0523 - Two storey dwelling with attached garage Lot 406DP 1252575, No. 17 Altitude Boulevard, Terranora DA22/0456 - Alterations and additions to existing dwelling including entry portico, front deck and pool deck Lot 147 DP 246854, No. 22 Norman Street, Tweed Heads DA22/0591 - Shed

Lot 4 DP 391468, No. 173 Kennedy Drive, Tweed Heads West

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

proposal for public comment

Blue-green algae detected at Clarrie Hall Dam

Tap water throughout the Tweed remains safe to drink and bathe in despite Tweed Shire Council issuing a green alert for blue-green algae in Clarrie Hall Dam.

The green alert means blue-green algae is present in low densities in the dam.

Affected water appears to have a green paint-like scum on the water, near the edges, or greenish clumps throughout the water. It can have a musty odour.

Council’s Water and Wastewater operations manager Brie Jowett said the NATA-accredited Tweed Laboratory Centre had found evidence in the dam of the algal species capable of producing toxin.

“Council’s water treatment processes are very robust – we remove blue-green algae from the water when blooms occur so our tap water remains perfectly safe to drink and bathe in,” Mrs Jowett said.

Signs are being put up at the dam wall and Crams Farm to inform the public of the presence of blue-green algae and potential risks.

Council is taking a precautionary approach and advising against recreational activities in the dam.

At this time, do not come into contact with dam water and do not eat fish from the dam.

If anyone comes into contact with the algae, Council advises them to rinse it off with fresh water and seek medical advice if symptoms appear.

Blue-green algae occur naturally and can reproduce quickly in still or slow-flowing water when it is warm and sunny and the water is nutrient-rich.

Council will increase testing to twice a week within Clarrie Hall Dam to monitor the algae.

Off-lead dog savagely kills threatened bird in Tweed Heads

Tweed Shire Council project officer – wildlife protection Emily Clarke is pleading with dog owners to keep their pets on lead in public after a young Bush Stone-curlew was mauled by a dog outside Council’s Tweed Heads Administration Office recently.

The incident, reported to the Tweed Valley Wildlife Carers, resulted in the death of one of the chicks hatched by the successful breeding pair well known in that area.

“The Tweed’s Bush Stone-curlews are the only population in NSW to record an increase in numbers over recent years. Sadly, most other populations in NSW are now extinct,” Ms Clarke said.

“Numbers in the Tweed have increased since Council and the local community have been looking after nesting and winter roosting sites.

“It’s terrible such a healthy chick has been needlessly killed. The pair that occupy this area have successfully bred there for the past five to six years.”

Council Rangers, in partnership with Tweed/Byron police, are currently undertaking a program targeting dogs off lead in public places to reduce the risk of such incidents.

If you like to take your dog for a walk off-leash, consider taking them to one of the 16 designated off-leash areas in the Tweed. Locate these areas by visiting Council’s website where there is a handy interactive map at tweed.nsw.gov.au/where-can-I-walk-my-dog

Equally important are dog prohibited zones, designed to protect our threatened species so they can breed, forage and raise their young safely. Sadly, people continue to ignore signs and warnings and dogs are regularly sighted at these locations.

Anyone caught with a dog off-lead in a public place is liable to be fined $330 per dog.

Resident and Ratepayer Association meetings

Banora

By Jo Kennett

A WOMAN has been charged with property damage after a fire gutted a house in Murwil lumbah late on Friday night, November 25.

Fortunately no one was home at the time of the fire. Tweed Police said it was about 11.55pm when emergency services were called to the Commercial Road home in Murwillumbah following reports of a house fire.

Fire and Rescue NSW Murwillumbah captain Greg Hayes said the whole house was “fully involved in fire” when they arrived at around midnight.

“There were flames coming out the front rooms, eaves and windows,” he said.

“We had to wait for the power to be discon nected so that holds up your attack.

“Fortunately the wires burnt off and were on the ground so then we could enter the house and do a room search to make sure no one was in there.

“We didn’t know at that stage if there was anyone inside the house.”

Captain Hayes said it took about an hour to put the fire out.

“So by about 1am it was pretty under con trol,” he said.

“We had to put a protection line up the north

ern side of the house — a hose line.

“We wet both sides of the other (neighbour ing) houses (to make sure they weren’t dam aged).

“Every room was substantially damaged by fire so it was virtually gutted.”

Murwillumbah Rural Fire Service, Tweed Heads Fire and Rescue, Essential Energy, and Tweed Police all attended.

“NSW Ambulance stood by in case they were needed, in case we did find someone,”Hayes said.

“BA Hazmat came up from Tweed Heads with extra cylinders of breathing apparatus et cetera.

“There were no injuries and everything went as good as it could have under the circumstances with no other properties damaged.”

A crime scene was established, and investi gations commenced into the circumstances surrounding the fire.

Following inquiries, a 28-year-old woman was arrested nearby at about 1am.

She was taken to Tweed Heads Police Sta tion, where she was charged with damage to property by fire.

The woman was refused bail and appeared before Lismore Local Court on Saturday, No vember 26.

Surfer injures spine

A SURFER was airlifted to a Brisbane hospital with suspected spinal injuries after a surfing accident at South Kingscliff Beach on Saturday, November 26.

The accident occurred around 7am and the Westpac Rescue Helicopter was tasked by New South Wales Ambulance on a primary mission to South Kingscliff Beach at around 7.30am.

The 34-year-old male had sustained suspected spinal injuries in the accident.

He was treated on scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics and the Helicopter Critical Care Medical Team.

was the Tweed Duty Officer on the day and said his role was to organise access for a fourwheel drive ambulance to get onto the beach to retrieve the injured man.

He was then taken to the waiting helicopter before being airlifted to the Princess Alexandra Hospital, which has a Spinal Injuries Unit.

Authorities said he is in a stable condition.

HOUSE FIRE: There were dramatic scenes on Commercial Road on Friday. Image by Elaine Lee

Australian Lifeguard Services’ Andrew Mills

Dam cannot mitigate floods

By Jonathon Howard

TWEED SHIRE Council has adopted a policy that clarifies the Clarrie Hall Dam cannot be used for flood mitigation.

The policy comes after Council and other neighbouring councils have faced criticism for not using dams as a way to hold back floodwaters.

The policy was adopted by Council at its meeting on October 27.

Council Water and Wastewater opera tions manager Brie Jowett said the Clarrie Hall Dam Water Release Policy was devel oped in consultation with the community and she thanked residents for submitting feedback.

“The dam is built with an open, ungated spillway. It is designed for storing drinking water, not to mitigate against flooding,” Ms Jowett said.

“Council does not manage the reservoir level by pre-releasing water ahead of rain

fall events to provide any form of storage capacity for flood-mitigation purposes.

“The policy clarifies that Council cannot control water that spills from the dam once the water level in the dam reaches the spillway crest.

“When the dam fills during intense rain fall events, it is designed to safely pass the excess water into Doon Doon Creek and then the Tweed River. This spilling cannot be controlled.”

Ms Jowett said the dam’s size and loca tion meant any upgrade would not alter its purpose.

“We live in one of the highest rainfall ar eas on the east coast of the nation, which has eroded the Tweed caldera over mil lions of years and carved out the natural beauty that is the Tweed Valley,” she said.

“We must acknowledge the dam’s catch ment takes in less than six per cent of the overall catchment area of the Tweed River and its upstream creeks and rivers.

“To have any impact on mitigating flood ing, a drastically bigger dam would be needed. However, the proposed Clarrie Hall Dam upgrade for water supply pur poses is the maximum feasible size for a dam at this location.”

Ms Jowett added that one dam offers little protection.

“We would need several very large dams to capture rainfall that feeds the Tweed, Oxley and Rous Rivers,” she said.

“Previous flood studies have shown large dams at those locations would not be practical.”

Pothole funds

TWEED SHIRE Council will soon start to receive funds for urgent pothole repairs, thanks to $428,220 in funding allocated under the NSW Government’s $50 million Fixing Local Roads Pothole Repair Round.

Member for Tweed Geoff Provest said Council will now be able get on with the job of repairing potholes to get through the wet summer ahead.

The financial assistance is expected to cover the extra costs and workload pressures following this year’s unprecedented rain and storms.

“This is on top of the ongoing investment in a stronger road network through Fixing Local Roads, Fixing Country Roads and Fixing Country Bridges,” Mr Provest said.

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said all 94 regional councils that applied for funding had been approved for grants.

A WOMAN was injured in an accident on the outskirts of Murwillumbah on Wednesday, November 23.

Just before 2pm the Westpac Rescue He licopter was tasked by NSW Ambulance to Kyogle Road, about 300 metres west of Murwillumbah High School, to reports of a single vehicle accident.

It was reported from the scene that the sole occupant was trapped and suffering from serious injuries. The car had left the road and ended up in a ditch.

Local ambulance paramedics and emer gency services attended the scene and commenced treatment of the female prior to the arrival of the rescue helicopter and

critical care medical team.

Tweed District Rescue Squad VRA president Drew Carr said when his vol unteers arrived at the scene the woman was already out of the car.

“I think a passer-by had helped her and she was conscious and sitting but she was in pain,” he said.

“We assisted the paramedics to get her from down near the drain, up to the am bulance for further care.”

The woman was treated and stabilised on scene before being flown to Gold Coast University Hospital in a stable condition suffering chest injuries.

Correction on Point Danger

AN ARTICLE in The Weekly edition on Thursday, Novem ber 24, titled ‘Lighthouse Demolition’ on page 12 requires a correction.

The article incorrectly stated that the Point Danger lighthouse was being demolished and upgraded.

The lighthouse is not being demolished. The Point Danger Marine Rescue headquarters in front of the lighthouse and the area surrounding the lighthouse, which has concrete cancer, are being demolished as part of the upgrade.

This will take place next year, once that work is completed. Apologies for any confusion this may have caused.

A woman suffered chest injuries in the Kyogle Road accident

Social housing system flawed

By Jonathon Howard

THERE ARE deep flaws in social housing across the Northern Rivers, according to new research from the University of NSW, which stresses that without sweeping changes and more social housing, our most vul nerable residents remain at extreme risk of climate change.

The Tweed and Northern Rivers suffered one of the most catastroph ic floods in recorded history earlier this year, and some of the biggest impacts was to those sleeping rough or homeless.

The research by UNSW’s City Fu tures Research Centre was commis sioned by Mission Australia, the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW, Social Futures, The Salvation Army Austra lia, the Australian Red Cross, and the Tenants’ Union of NSW.

It revealed that greater action is needed to safeguard Northern Riv ers residents against homelessness and displacement as severe weather events become more common.

The report made several key rec ommendations, including the need to build more social housing stock in low-risk geographic areas, better protections for renters such as ceasing no-fault evictions, and better resourc ing for responses to homelessness and housing instability in periods of natural disasters.

The report also highlighted the need for more detailed planning around medium-term housing solutions to be implemented following a disaster

such as ‘pod homes’, as well as disas ter preparedness, transport subsidies and public and community transport options to mitigate displacement and dislocation.

“The researchers found that regional housing markets cannot withstand widespread property losses caused by natural disasters like floods be cause there is limited rental stock,” the report reads.

“The result is that more low-income renters are being displaced, while oth ers are being left with little choice but to accept living in homes that need repairs, or are otherwise unsafe.

“This is because they risk receiving a no-grounds eviction as a result of simply asking for repairs.

“Homelessness support services, not adequately resourced to deal with homelessness even prior to disasters, are being called on to help even more people, while their volunteers and workers are also flood-impacted.”

The report highlighted that social housing has dropped to 4.7 per cent of housing stock in NSW and this exposes people throughout the state to an increased risk of homelessness in the wake of natural disasters.

“Access to affordable housing in the Northern Rivers was already at crisis point before the floods with one in 25 of the state’s social housing waiting list applicants being in the area,” the report reads.

“With risks of natural disasters in creasing due to climate change, there is a strong need for a well-planned and better coordinated response to meeting people’s housing needs post

disaster and building a more resilient system.”

St Vincent de Paul Society NSW CEO Jack de Groot said the crisis has further exposed deep flaws in an already vulnerable housing system.

“There is an urgent need to build greater resilience into the system in the face of more frequent and severe climate disasters,” he said.

“Failure to do so will push more people into a hard-to-break cycle of poverty, unable to find a stable home from which they can rebuild their lives.

“Climate change is undeniably here, leading to an increase in homeless ness, poverty and inequality.

“Therefore, we need well-planned, well-designed social housing stock built in low-risk geographical areas.”

Mission Australia NSW State Direc tor Nada Nasser said an increase in social housing would go a long way in helping to house people on low incomes.

“As well as helping to end home lessness and build resilience to the effects of climate change and natural disasters,” he said.

“Regional NSW was already facing a rental crisis, but with the floods, the private rental market in the Northern Rivers has been pushed to its very limit.

“Local Tenants’ Services are seeing an increase in the advice provided on ‘no-grounds’ evictions, as well as rents continuing to increase, including for sitting tenants impacted by the floods.

“So many are now relying on the pri vate rental market, and as they start

the process of rebuilding their lives they need better protections against unfair ‘no-grounds’ evictions.”

Tenants’ Union of NSW CEO Leo Patterson Ross said it was time we “seriously consider putting in place fair limits around rent and rent in creases”.

“These tenancy reforms are needed broadly, but especially where house holds have faced such significant dis ruption and need our support through recovery,” he said.

Social Futures CEO Tony Davies said climate change events like this highlight an urgent need for govern ment to invest in resilient housing for communities across regional

Australia.

“This research emphasises the im portance of housing in the recovery process for individuals, families and communities,” he said.

“We have witnessed firsthand the impact that displacement and multi ple relocations can have on mental health and wellbeing. A safe and se cure home can provide immediate and immense relief.”

The Salvation Army’s Secretary for Mission, Captain Stuart Glover said disaster preparedness must in clude mitigating risks to the housing system, “reinforcing it to be able to withstand sudden shocks and disrup tions.”

Two girls were in this house at Burringbar, when it was hit by a landslide; they managed to get out alive

By Jonathon Howard

ONE OF the biggest and most advanced road surveys in the Northern Rivers was recently launched by the state government and includes the Tweed Shire.

Two specialised road scanning vehicles, an intelligent pavement assessment vehicle and a network survey vehicle (pictured), are being used to provide a comprehensive analysis of the scope of what needs to be done and key priority areas.

It is hoped the data will better inform the long-term rebuild of road and transport infra structure in the region and ensure it can better withstand future floods.

The Northern Rivers Reconstruction Corpo ration, in partnership with Transport for NSW and the seven Northern Rivers local councils, are undertaking a whole of network road con dition assessment across all sealed roads in Northern NSW.

Northern Rivers Reconstruction Corporation chief executive David Witherdin said the Aus

tralian Road Research Board (ARRB) will test more than 5,500 kilometres of road surface to measure roughness, texture and rutting, and to gather digital imagery for visual rating and automated crack detection.

“This assessment informs how we’re going to prioritise more than $4.9 billion in infra structure work, including a pipeline of more than $1.7 billion to address road and transport infrastructure rebuilding across the region,” Mr Witherdin said.

Transport for NSW’s Regional Director North Region, Anna Zycki, said this work will support preparedness for future flooding events and will inform what works will take priority.

“Road and transport infrastructure are an im portant part of any community and this survey will lead the way in ensuring that Northern Rivers residents and industry have the infra structure they need to support the ongoing recovery,” Ms Zycki said.

The whole-of-network assessment is being completed by the ARRB and will continue across the region until the end of 2022.

THE NSW Government will provide grant funding to install a pump station to alleviate flooding at Dorothy Street and William Street in Murwillumbah.

Local stormwater flooding behind the Dorothy Street and William Street levee system affects private property, public infrastructure (sewer) and community facilities.

The government’s report said flooding is as sociated with elevated river levels outside the levee, preventing stormwater from draining away. It will provide Tweed Shire Council with $285,000 to resolve the situation.

“This is a common levee problem but is par ticularly pronounced in this area,” the report reads.

“The Murwillumbah central business district levee and drainage study recommends installing a pump station behind the levee.

“This project will install the pump station to minimise private property damage, disruption of community facilities and environmental/ amenity issues associated with sewer infiltra tion.”

The funding will be provided to Tweed Shire Council as part of a $9.9 million NSW Gov

ernment grants scheme to reduce the impacts of flooding by mitigating flood risks in com munities.

Minister for Environment James Griffin said the 2022-23 Floodplain Management Program grants will help ensure communities are bet ter prepared for and protected from potential flooding.

“Across the state, we’re funding 65 council projects that have a focus on understanding risks and taking action to reduce the impact of floods on local communities,” Mr Griffin said.

“The funding being delivered to local councils will help them understand their local flood risks and implement actions to reduce flood impacts, such as building levees, flood gates and establishing warning systems.

“The Floodplain Management Program has been running since the 1980s, and now with a third La Niña season upon us, these grants will help councils future-proof their flood plans, and ensure communities are more prepared for flood risks.”

For more information and a full list of grants, visit: environment.nsw.gov.au/topics/water/ floodplains/floodplain-management-grants/ grants-awarded

By Jonathon Howard

Pump stations can alleviate areas with built-up floodwater such as those around Dorothy Street

Bio Organic Farm is a family-owned local business that has been established for more than 20 years at 2 Boulder Close in Byangum.

Bio Organic has also launched a shopfront at Sunnyside Mall, where customers can experience the incredible flavours of organic and locally grown produce.

Oogie, Basil and family, pride themselves on being able to produce the finest local and organic produce via the weekly markets, online orders, and its exciting new Sunnyside Mall shopfront.

Bio Organic Farm specialises in growing all your everyday fruit and vegetables which are all 100 per cent certified organic, locally grown on the farm, harvested daily, and made available directly to customers.

The business is celebrating one year of being open at Sunnyside mall and locals are loving the fresh organic produce and readymade meals, as well as the delicious juice and smoothies, on tap every day.

Everything made instore comes direct from the farm to be processed, Juiced and cooked. Made 100% plant based and with love. Drop in and check out the Bio Organic Farm range and rediscover the incredible flavours of organic and locally grown pro duce.

Author has new book

By Madeleine Murray

A FICTITIOUS police report covering decom posed remains near Tumbulgum is at the heart of the latest thrilling novel by local author Trish Clark.

The Valley of Unremembered Dreams weaves together the personal stories of imagined res idents in the arms of the Tweed Valley where Trish has had a home for the past two decades.

“The book looks at the history, the present and future of this wonder-filled and challenging piece of Australia,” Trish told The Weekly, after recently hosting a local book launch. Meet the frantic lawyer escaping from the complexities of his family history in Mel bourne; the Hmong-Lao illegal refugee who runs a dodgy land-banking business on the side; the palliative care nurse who wants to give away a career spanning 40 years in order to write novels; the small-time developer with family roots in Holland who plans to make a motza with an outsized coastal development; the Aboriginal families who simply want to enjoy the annual bunya nut festival, and many more colourful locals.

And while we’re at it, have you ever wondered what happened to the bodies of those hundreds of deceased persons who until 1978 were buried in Murwillumbah’s original graveyard on Sacred Hill? The answer lies in the soil.

This is Trish’s third published novel, in a tril ogy set in Australia in the bush, the city and now the regions.

She has co-authored five informational-travel books published together with her partner of six decades Iain Finlay, as well as a biography and an autobiography.

The Valley of Unremembered Dreams was launched at an afternoon tea event on Wednes day, November 30 at the Cudgen Surf Club.

Trish will also launch her book at the Small Works gallery in Murwillumbah from 2pm on Friday, December 23.

Garden makeover joy

By Jo Kennett

THE GARDEN makeover won by a Condong family whose new home was devastated in the floods has just been completed and they could not be happier.

Mother-of-four Maddie Stennar won the make over in a competition run by Dan White from Early Up Landscaping and Garden Mainte nance at Chinderah, which was also severely impacted by the floods.

She was nominated by her grandmother San dra, who said they had only just bought their house “after a lot of struggle.”

“It’s their first home and they had been living in a tent because they couldn’t find accommo dation,” Sandra told The Weekly at the time.

“When they got this house it was so exciting and then it got wiped out in the floods.

“Maddie has four young children, but one of the boys is very sick with a rare genetic disease called tuberous sclerosis so it’s been very hard for them.”

Maddie said they ended up with everything they asked for in their garden “and more.”

“Guy was the main Early Up person working on it and he was really lovely and a perfectionist and such a goer,” she said.

“He did not stop. He would still be here some nights at 6pm.”

Maddie and her husband bought a pool which Dan and his team helped put together.

“I love it all. My absolute favourite is the fire pit area,” she told The Weekly.

“We have big pots of jasmine and that will grow over the timber arbour which has party lights around it so it will be really pretty.

“We have bench seats around it and a timber cover for the summer so we can use it as a table.

“We are down there multiple times every day and the kids and our new dog have been loving it.”

Maddie said they were very lucky to have Dan, who has become “a good friend”, coordinating

the project.

“Sunny from Kingscliff Nursery has also been so lovely and helpful as well in consulting about what plants were best and it was all perfect,” Maddie said.

“We want to thank A1 skips and Tweed Land scape Supplies for all their help.”

The project went way above the $10,000 bud get with Early Up putting in $20,000 in the end, while Kingscliff Nursery put in $3,000 and A1 skips provided two skips instead of one.

“Everyone went above and beyond,” Maddie said.

“It’s such a relief. We spend a lot of time outside with the kids and we just had crap ev erywhere from the floods and it was a constant reminder.

“Now we have a beautiful space to enjoy that doesn’t trigger any memories of the floods.

“These people were complete strangers and I’m blown away, they have put in this massive amount of time, money and effort for us and we are just so incredibly grateful to them all.”

Early Up supports local charities including Fred’s Place and was recently announced the winner of The Business NSW Northern Rivers Excellence in Small Business Award 2022.

“Everyone is welcome, “Trish said.

“Especially those who live in the Valley.”

The Valley of Unremembered Dreams is avail able for purchase via Amazon.com.au

Local author Trish Clark has a new book out now, The Valley of Unremembered Dreams, and it's well worth a read

The results after the makeover were amazing!

Adopt a family

By Madeleine Murray

NOT EVERYONE in the Tweed Shire has such a merry Christmas. Many families in our com munity struggle this time of year.

The Family Centre’s annual Adopt a Family for Christmas campaign aims to help families, children, and young people in need at Christ mas.

People can choose a local family, child, or young person to adopt, and donate a gift card or money.

Donating gift vouchers or money allows the parent/carers to be a part of choosing a special gift for their children.

David Boutkan, Executive Director of The Family Centre, said this year there are 200 participants who are in need and are on the Adopt a Family list.

“We have seen first-hand the difference these gifts have made to families making their life a little easier this time of year,” David told The Weekly.

“This year is also going to be tougher for families impacted by the floods. We hope we can make things a bit brighter by gifting them

vouchers for the holiday season.”

The Urliup Assessment and Rehabilitation unit at Murwillumbah Hospital have ‘adopted’ the same family for three years.

“I thought about adopting a family myself, then I put it to the team,” Nursing Unit Man ager Deb Huxstep told The Weekly. “We went through the list and chose the family with the most children.”

The team makes up hampers with food, toys, gift vouchers, Christmas cakes, cinema passes, and a variety of presents.

Everyone in the unit contributes. “It’s real ly good,” Deb said. “We feel like we’re giving back to the community, and we’re happy it’s a local family.”

Adopt a Family even extends to schools.

The Family Centre’s first donations this year came from local Year 6 students at Pacific Coast Christian College who kicked off the campaign with a huge donation of $1340 in gift cards. The students raised the money as part of their community-giving project.

To Adopt a Family, go to www.thefamilycentre. org.au or call Jo Blanchard at The Family Centre on (07) 5524 8711.

NOW TAKING

The Family Centre's Julie Burton and Deb Huxstep are calling on residents to adopt a family

Danielle Simpson and Ally Martin from The Family Centre

Kathryn Willowhite

Green Heroes wins

By Madeleine Murray

The founder of Green Heroes was awarded the overall winner category after she received the Community Educator of the Year Award for her work in local environmental education, school and youth engagement in conservation work, and the preservation of local threatened species.

In 2022, the Green Heroes team focussed on local ocean conservation, specifically projects surrounding Jungarra Ngarrian (Cook Island Aquatic Reserve) off Fingal Beach.

Jungarra Ngarrian, a picturesque Tweed land mark, is one of the few islands off our local beaches.

“Jungurra Ngarrian is part of our story, it is the Ceremony Place of the Birds,” Traditional Descendant Kyle Slabb told The Weekly.

The island, only 600 metres off Fingal Head, is formed by ancient lava flows and protrudes 24.8 metres above sea level.

It is a safe haven for threatened migratory sea birds and the home of two reptile species and 25 plant species.

“But that is only on top of the water — there is another story under the water,” Kyle said. The aquatic reserve is famous for its colony of green turtles.

This threatened species and several others, such as the Queensland groper, black rock cod, gold-spotted rock cod and the grey nurse shark, all occur in the waters of the stunning reserve — the only aquatic reserve in NSW to host both soft and hard corals.

The Green Heroes Jungarra Ngarrian Con servation project is a collaboration aimed at the preservation and protection of flora and fauna species within the aquatic reserve through cultural empowerment.

It incorporates both practical conservation

and preservation of culture and story.

In working together, Traditional Descendants,

Tweed Byron Aboriginal Land Council, NSW Department of Primary Industries (Aquatic Reserves) and Kirra Dive on the Tweed are seeking to address gaps in knowledge, deepen connections to Sea Country and upskill local Aboriginal youth for strengthened management and protection of the reserve.

Tom Byrnes, Land and Sea Ranger for the Tweed Byron Local Aboriginal Land Council, told The Weekly, “This project is the perfect opportunity to learn, engage and take action to save the underwater environment.”

According to the NSW Government Depart ment of Primary Industries (Aquatic Reserves) Jungarra Ngarrian will be one of the first aquat ic reserve land claims in NSW to be negotiated.

FINGAL HEAD resident Sarah Jantos has won the 2022 Australian Association of Envi ronmental Education Awards.

Volunteer diver Noah Bijang Slabb after a survey

Sarah Jantos

founded Green Heroes

East coast walker takes Tweed break

By Yvonne Gardiner

A ONE-WOMAN trek along the east coast of Australia has so far raised $33,000 for the Black Dog Institute and spread awareness of mental illness.

Bailey Seamer, at 23 years of age, has dubbed her 5000-kilometre trek the “Wandering Minds Walk”.

She began the walk at the Mornington Penin sula, Victoria, on May 18 this year and hopes to reach the northern-most tip of Cape York Peninsula in Queensland by July next year.

Recently she was taking a break at Pottsville and spoke to The Weekly about her adventure.

“I have quite a large pack, her name is Mon ster,” Bailey said.

“If I need to camp anywhere, I can. I do camp quite a bit.

“I’ve been pleasantly surprised by how gen erous people have been. People really want to help you.

“The best part of the walk has been a col lection of good moments, those little snippets of stuff.

“People have expressed that my walk has given them a lot of comfort. They can go out and do stuff themselves.

“I’ve seen so many wonderful animals too.”

Bailey covers 20 to 40kms a day.

“I do have rest days, physical as well as psy chological,” she said.

“I’ve been walking over six months now. To prepare, I actually did a walk from Coolangatta to Coffs Harbour in 2020.

“It taught me all the things not to do. It was a mental trial.

“It’s the instability — not knowing where you’re going to sleep or what you’re going to eat.

“I wanted to know if I could put up with the mental stress of walking. The hardest thing is managing the mental health condition when you’re on the go.”

Bailey lives with bipolar disorder, an incurable but manageable mental illness.

She finds that hiking and connecting with nature benefit her health.

“The walk is a metaphor of life with bipolar and reflects my own personal journey. It will be tough and long,” she said.

“There will be good days and bad. Uphill battles and downhill slides, with the mentality of just putting one foot in front of the other and taking one day at a time to conquer the bigger goal.”

Her aim is to reach a fundraising target of $100,000. Find out how you can support Bailey’s journey online via: wandering-minds.org

Cane toad busting

the upcoming Tweed Toad Busting Challenge.

THE CANE toad busting challenge begins on Monday, December 12.

Local residents can take part by collecting as many cane toads as possible from their prop erties and local areas, and logging their data online.

The repulsive, highly toxic cane toad can be deadly to pets, wildlife and agriculture.

The plague is spreading fast: female cane toads can lay up to 70,000 eggs each year.

Tweed Shire Council is working together with Watergum to reduce toad numbers and reclaim properties and natural areas.

Research and first-hand experience has shown the most effective way to reduce cane toad num bers is by using the community scale approach.

“When toad busting is performed regularly on a large scale by the community in a designated area, we see a greater reduction in numbers compared to individual efforts alone, ” Water gum’s Cane Toads Coordinator Emily Vincent told The Weekly.

Tweed Shire Council, partnered with the local not-for-profit group Watergum, has developed

“When I first starting toad busting on my prop erty, I removed over 1,000 during my first year,” Tweed toad buster Kevin told The Weekly.

“Now I struggle to find 10 a week. I know my efforts have made a big difference in their numbers.”

The Tweed Cane Toad Busting Challenge will be split into three separate weeks.

Each week, Tweed locals are encouraged to go out at night to collect as many toads as possible, before euthanising them humanely using the fridge/freezer method, or utilising one of four drop-off points in the Tweed Shire.

They can upload their toad busting data onto the Watergum website via: watergum.org/can etoads/

The site will be monitored throughout the week and updated with daily numbers and information.

All the cane toads donated to Tweed Shire drop off points will be used by Watergum to create cane toad tadpole lures.

Learn more about toad busting in the Tweed Shire by watching this short, educational video: tweed.nsw.gov.au/cane-toads

TWEED BREAK: Long-distance walker Bailey Seamer stops off for a rest at Hastings Point

By Madeleine Murray

PEST: Cane toads are toxic to wildlife as well as pets

The Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre is a Tweed Shire Council Community Facility and is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW.

Lindy Lee Moonlight Deities (detail) 2019–20, installation view, Lindy Lee: Moon in a Dew Drop, Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, Sydney, 2020, mixed media, image courtesy the artist and the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, Sydney, © the artist, photograph: Ken Leanfore Lindy Lee is represented by Sullivan + Strumpf

McKenzie home.

Get involved with Seniors Festival

Tweed Seniors Festival and Tweed Shire Council is calling on local organisations and individuals to register an event or nominate a local achiever.

There are plenty of ways to get involved, according to Council, including hosting a special event or activity between Wednes day, February 1, and Sunday, February 12.

The Tweed Seniors Festival celebrates the role and contributions older people make to our community.

The festival runs as part of the NSW Seniors Festival, which is the largest celebration of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.

Council highlighted several successful event ideas from the past including a spe cial morning tea, afternoon tea or lunch, concerts, social get-togethers, special film screenings, leisure and health activities, demonstrations or tours, displays and exhibitions.

Your organisation could even offer your regular class or activity for free or at a discount to encourage seniors to try it.

Your activity or event will be included for free in our Tweed Shire Seniors Fes tival program and published in Council’s weekly newsletter, the Tweed Link.

“Tweed Seniors Festival allows our com munity to showcase what we have on of fer for older people in our community. It also allows seniors to take advantage of these opportunities and make connections with other people from all walks of life,” Council’s Coordinator Community Care, Community Services Joanne Watters said.

“Getting involved means putting your organisation in front of the biggest demo

graphic in the Tweed — people aged over 65. We have such a wonderfully vibrant community — a huge portion of whom are in their senior years.”

Your event must be registered no later than Friday, December 9.

A significant and popular element of the festival each year is the Tweed Local Achievement Awards, which recognise seniors in our community who help to make it a more diverse, active, and inspir ing place to live.

“Nominating a friend or colleague means throwing your support behind someone who makes the Tweed the wonderful place that it is,” Ms Watters said.

Nominations for the Tweed Local Achievement Awards are now open and must be received by Friday, December 16, to be considered.

To nominate a local senior or to register your event for the 2023 Seniors Festival, please visit: tweed.nsw.gov.au/seniors-fes tival

Check your smoke alarm

HAVE YOU checked your fire prevention equipment recently?

Not only can hot, dry summer weather provide ideal condi tions for fires to start, but people are often away on holiday and unable to defend their home.

So it’s important to be prepared, be aware of fire dangers in the home and make sure you’re protected if something goes wrong Make sure you have a working, easily accessible fire extin guisher and fire blanket.

Install a smoke alarm system and test monthly.

“Install interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the kitchen, living areas, every bedroom and outside all sleeping areas, plus the garage and/ or workshop,” Stuart Edgley, managing director of Emerald Smoke Alarms and Fire Safety Technology, told The Weekly.

While working smoke alarms give an early warning of fire, not all smoke alarms are created equal. Photoelectric smoke alarms are recommended by Australian fire authorities because they are particularly responsive to smouldering fires and dense smoke, which is the most common type of household fire.

Interconnected alarms mean that if one smoke alarm activates, all alarms in the network will sound.

However, only working smoke alarms will save your life in the event of a fire — so it important to test them monthly.

With Christmas just around the corner, it’s time to get ready for the joyous family get togethers. There’s nothing more to bring the family closer than home style cooked meals. Gourmet Meals have a huge variety of traditional and non-traditional mouth-watering Christmas delights. You simply can’t go past our succulent sliced oven roasted Turkey Breast with apple and sultana stuffing,

roast potatoes, green beans and carrots. Or our famously delicious glazed Ham and Turkey served with gravy, pumpkin and potato bake, Brussels sprouts and carrots. For something a bit more exotic why not try our Cajun Barramundi with Prawns served with a creamy tomato sauce, rice and a medley of asparagus, green beans and broccoli. For the traditional Christmas pork lovers, succulent pork fillet with prunes, rich gravy,

braised potatoes, carrots, cabbage and green beans

Now it’s time for dessert, oh how lovely… our berry trifle, a summer favourite, comes with mixed berries, biscuit and crème brûlée. Or for the cheesecake connoisseur a classic zingy lemon dessert with a crumbly biscuit base. And for our lovers of all things Christmas our Christmas Cake is packed with fruit and is served with a delicious custard.

Winners from this year include Glenda Ashby for her service to Marine Rescue Point Danger, Carole Cohan for her ser vice to Meals on Wheels, Tweed VIEW Club and Fun Activities for Banora Point (FABS) and Alan Young for his service to Twin Towns Radio Yacht Club.

Join in the fun of next year's Tweed Seniors Festival by registering your event or nominating a local achiever

JIMMY BUFFET

Avoiding trips and falls

By Madeleine Murray

IF YOU are over 60, you may have noticed that your friends, or even you, are having freak accidents.

When we age, our balance deteriorates, our peripheral vision shrinks, and our bones often become more brittle.

Several acquaintances of this Weekly reporter have had bizarre accidents in the past year.

An Irish woman was knocked over by an en thusiastic Labrador dog in a park, and was in a leg cast for six weeks. Another woman tripped over her Jack Russell dog and broke her ankle. A 68-year-old retired teacher fell off his bike and broke his leg when he swerved to avoid walkers.

A 74-year-old woman was doing the Warrior Number Two yoga pose, lost her balance and fell flat on her back, ending up with very painful back and rib issues for several weeks.

A fairly fit 65-year-old, wearing old thongs his wife had told him to throw out, slipped on the wet edge of his pool, fell 2.5 metres to the ground and sustained five broken ribs.

For seniors there are many perils — carpet edges, shower floors, energetic dogs, overgrown gardens, ladders, the list goes on.

“The most common accidents we see are falls

from ladders, people climbing up to clean gut ters or work on roofs,” Murwillumbah physio therapist Matt Gray told The Weekly. “They think they’re okay, and suddenly they’re not.

“Less severe accidents are trips and falls, catching a foot on the rug. These are often less disastrous.”

As a physio, Matt stresses fall prevention, working on lower leg strengthening, and bal ance exercises.

When someone presents with an injury, Matt uses combinations of acupuncture needles, massage and exercises to help settle the pain.

Personal trainer Susi Thomas who specialis es in balance training and fitness for seniors, runs free outdoor courses in Tweed Heads and Murwillumbah.

“Falls are a major health issue in the com munity with around 30 per cent of adults over 65 experiencing at least one fall per year,” Susi told The Weekly.

Susi’s free courses are a stimulating mix of ball throwing, walking on lines, juggling, and varied activities done outdoors with others.

For more information about balance courses, go to https://bestprogram.com.au

For information about Matt Gray, go to https:// activelifephysio.com.au

Wrinkles will only go where the smiles have been.”

Rechargeable, in-the-ear hearing aid.

Natural sound experience.

Portable charger: 24 hours of use on a single charge. Hands-free phone and FaceTime calls for iPhone and iPad*.

Weather-proof and sweatproof. Comfortable all day long.

Beware of batteries

FIRE AND Rescue NSW (FRNSW) has issued a warning to Tweed Shire shoppers about the dangers relating to Lithium-ion battery-powered gifts this Christmas.

FRNSW has observed a significant rise in fires related to Lithium-ion batteries this year, most often in small, portable devices like e-bikes and e-scooters.

Since January 1, FRNSW crews have respond ed to 180 Lithium-ion battery fires, compared with just over 16 in 2021.

Minister for Emergency Services and Resil ience Steph Cooke said the number of recent Lithium-ion battery-related fires should serve as an alarm for Christmas shoppers.

“Most of these fires occur when lithium-ion batteries are in the process of charging and overheat, causing an explosion of flames in living rooms or garages,” Ms Cooke said.

“Just a few weeks ago an e-bike battery caught fire and almost burnt down a family home in Manly. A brick wall was the only barrier that prevented flames spreading from the garage to the remainder of the house.

“Please treat Lithium-ion battery-powered products with care, don’t leave them on charge for extended periods of time, and remember to call Triple Zero (000) in an emergency sit uation.”

FRNSW Acting Deputy Commissioner — Strategic Capability Trent Curtin said both rechargeable and disposable batteries should be treated with caution, as they can expel molten flammable metal and emit toxic gases when on fire.

“When Lithium-ion batteries fail, they are prone to ‘thermal runaway’, which sees them build up intense heat until they violently burst, causing toxic, flammable and explosive gases and flames that are extremely difficult to extin guish,” he said.

“Firefighters often have to use copious amounts of water to ensure that they are ex tinguished and adequately cooled to prevent reignition.

“While the quality of the Lithium-ion battery can pose a risk, the main risk is caused by overcharging or trying to charge a damaged battery, which could cause it to overheat and ignite.

“If you are shopping for toys, e-bikes, e-scoot ers, laptops or power tools that are powered by Lithium-ion batteries this Christmas, always ensure you’re purchasing a reputable brand from a reputable retailer.”

Be careful of Lithium-ion batteries

Tweed Christmas events

By Jo Kennett

IT’S CHRISTMAS party time in the wonderful Tweed Shire with plenty of fun and action for all the family at the follow ing free community events. Remember if you have a com munity Christmas party, or spe cial event, please get in touch with The Weekly.

You can simply email editor@ theweekly.net.au, or phone (02) 6672 4443.

Kingscliff

A fter a three year absence, the Kingscliff Lions Club has resurrected the popular Christmas Carols by the Coast concert with the help of local school staff, helpers and partic ularly Lindisfarne School who have gone above and beyond to make the night a success.

Where: Row an Robinson Park, Kingscliff beach front

When: Tuesday, December 13

Time : From 6pm

What: Local s tudents and artists will perform a variety of acts on the stage, an appearance from Santa, barbecue and glow sticks will be provided.

L

a com munity Christmas service this Sunday.

When: Sunday, December 4 Where: Mahers Lane Chapel, Lindisfarne Time: 4.30pm refreshments, service at 5pm. All welcome.

Lindisfarne

indisfarne Anglican Gram mar School is hosting

CLUB BANORA

Prepare for bushfires

By Jo Kennett

IT’S BEEN relatively dry this month, but after all the rain we’ve had this year that means there is plenty of fuel around for bushfires and a Far North Coast Rural Fire Service (RFS) boss has some great advice to help you prepare.

Local RFS volunteers were out in force last weekend for crew leader training and The Weekly caught up with Inspector Angela Daly at Pottsville for an update.

“It’s been weeks since we’ve had rain so conditions are starting to dry out,” she said.

“We are starting to see pile burns escape because people are unaware just how dry it is.

“It’s a good time to remind people it’s now summer and the bushfire danger period.”

Insp Daly said residents need to have preparations made around their properties and they also need to know the correct process if they are burning off.

“They do require a permit and they do need to make sure that fire stays under control especially given the current weath er conditions,” Insp Daly said.

“The NSW RFS website has fact sheets and bushfire survival plans and we recom mend people have a read now, not when there is a fire next to them because pre vention is much better than the cure.”

There have been changes to how bushfire warning levels are rated, from moderate, to high, to extreme, to catastrophic with different meanings and advice for each rating.

“That feeds into your house preparation and bushfire survival plan if a fire starts and if it threatens,” Insp Daly said.

“We are all so busy with work and kids

that it gets pushed to the background until there is a fire but you need to take the time to get ready.

“Preparation includes cleaning out gut ters, cleaning up around your property and making sure lawns are mown, making sure flammable material like wood isn’t stacked against the house and overhanging trees and branches are trimmed.

“The winter months are the best time for hazard reduction burns.”

Insp Daly said now is the time to make a plan for your family.

“For instance if we live at the back of Pottsville up against the bush, what are we going to do if a fire starts in the bush?” she said.

“What are we going to do with the home? Are we going to go? When are we going to do? Where are we going to go? What if the kids are at a friend’s place? All those contingencies.

“It’s no use thinking you will wait for a firefighter to knock on your door and tell you what to do because that most often won’t happen. There aren’t enough fire fighters for every house.”

Insp Daly said residents need to under stand the ratings and have preparations made “but also have trigger points so you’re not waiting until you see flames

on your back doorsteps and realising you need to go.”

“You have the plan to go, ‘Okay, I have the Fires Near Me app, I’ve got a notifica tion. If the weather conditions are X, Y or Z, I know I’m going to put the kids in the car and I’m going to Tweed or wherever.

“Whether you stay or go also depends on you, your property and your preparations.

“If your property is very well prepared, you’re very prepared, you’re dressed ap propriately and you’re mentally prepared, you can actively work with firefighters to protect your home.

“If you go, ‘Oh my God I meant to do that and I haven’t done it’ and your lawn or garden is overgrown, it’s not the time to be doing that as the fire approaches.”

Insp Daly said the old pictures we see of someone on top of a roof in their stubbies and thongs when there is a wall of flames coming towards them “isn’t ideal at all.”

“It’s hot, you need long pants, longsleeve cotton clothing to cover you and protect you from the radiant heat, a wide brim hat and something to cover your mouth and nose like a cotton nappy or a tea towel to help you breath in the smoke because it will be hot, it will be choking, your eyes will water and it will make your nose run,” she said.

Business event

SOURDOUGH BUSINESS Women (SBW) will host its an nual end of year celebration at Farm and Co on Thursday, December 8.

The women’s network is part of the Sourdough Business Pathways (SBP) group, which is a not-for-profit economic powerhouse that drives beneficial business outcomes for com munities across the Northern Rivers.

This event is open to the community and anyone interested in SBW is welcome to contact the group and attend.

Delicious food and cocktails will set the scene for a gathering designed to celebrate women in our community and reflect on the year gone by.

The celebration will close with a spectacular performance by Phoebe Blue and Stevie J Kelly, a dynamic duo that literally eat and breathe fire! Together they will light up the night with small explosions, big beats and a touch of comedy.

If you haven’t tapped into any of the wonderful SBP resources yet, this event is your chance to come along and meet the whole Sourdough team, including the new General Manager Jeremy Dufner, and learn more about how Sourdough can support you on your business journey.

“Sourdough Business Pathways are moving into the next phase of our growth, which will see us streamline our brand and services to both support and capitalise on the amazing talent we have in the region,” Mr Dufner said.

“Our vision is to be the economic powerhouse driving purpose ful business growth for the benefit of our region and beyond. I look forward to celebrating with everyone that can attend this Thursday.”

Tickets for the event are $89 per person and can be purchased via: https://sbp.org.au/sbw-celebration-2022/

Back by popular demand will be the Treasure Hunt with even bigger numbers to take part this year after huge participation in 2022. A fun activity with heaps of prizes, the Hunt has been organised by Murwillumbah and Region Business Chamber and takes treasure hunters all over town in search of some answers. The “treasure” is at the end, so remember to hand in your answers once the map is complete. Treasure maps and your Treasure at the end, can be collected from Precise PC’s, Wollumbin Dreaming, Verela and Swift pharmacy, My Fashion Store, Chantilly Lace and Bolt + Buckle.

Sharon Matulick from Bolt + Buckle said what makes this night so special is the energy in the streets. “We have Santa and his very dedicated Elf helper walking the streets spreading some Christmas cheer with small treats. The music from all over brings lots of fun and even a bit of dancing in the streets!”

Another feature of the night is the amazing Murwillumbah Philharmonic Choir filling the streets with Christmas carols, and M-Arts will come alive with their Art After Dark event. A great place to check out unique and handmade gifts from local artisans. Enjoy some food, drinks, music and dance the night away.

Around the CBD many of the shops are gearing up for a fun night, including Bam Bam kids toys who are running an Elf on the Shelf promotion so pop in and spot the Elf to go in the prize draw; Bolt + Buckle will have painting with ARTribu; and many of the town’s amazing cafés will be open.

Inspector Angela Daly (right) and crew leaders at the RFS training at Tweed Coast RFS

LEGENDS: Lilly Choi-Lee, Sharon Styman and Julia Foyster

Murwillumbah CBD will come alive once again for Twilight Christmas Shopping on Friday December 9th. The once-a-year event is all about community coming out to celebrate the spirit of Christmas.

Pilot makes brilliant emergency landing

By Jo Kennett

beach, but the wind was pretty up and down the beach and it was a bit of a slope,” he said.

The three-seater Cozy aircraft took off from Coolangatta and the pilot was coming in over Hastings Point on his return trip when it lost oil pressure.

He was forced to land near the grav el track behind the beach between Hastings Point and Cabarita Beach.

Pilot Mike O’Neill is a former Cool angatta Air Traffic Controller who is based in Hong Kong.

“I haven’t flown for quite a while so I was doing a test flight and I was quite deliberate with all my actions and checks,” he told The Weekly.

“About 15 minutes in I saw the oil pressure drop to zero which could have been the gauge but you should always suspect it’s the real deal.

“All other indications were okay but eventually things deteriorated and I got a lot of engine noise and then power was interrupted.

“I was talking to Coolangatta Air port tower and I told them I had some issues and I wanted to climb to give myself some more options.

“I was probably about two or three minutes south of here (Hastings) and the power fluctuated a bit and then went to zero basically and I was committed.”

It was mid-tide on the beach when Mr O’Reilly had to land the plane.

“I was looking at some crops to land in (near Round Mountain), or the

“I just wasn’t sure how much of a gap I had between the sand that was available and the vegetation; I didn’t want to put a wing tip into the vegetation.

“I could have put it down on this gravel but it was so close to the veg etation that if I hit that it would spin me.

“I came in straight but it twisted around at the last minute.

“This is quite a fast aircraft to land and has a long landing roll and to pull it up in two seconds is just quite bizarre.

“It was only within 50 metres or even less of touching down but just the design of the aircraft and the harness on it and the sand grabs the undercarriage.

“It has these big fibreglass pants on it and the drag of that snaps the nose down it down the front.

“It’s just so sturdy around the front and normally you would have an en gine there (the Cozy’s engine is in the rear) so if I did this in a conventional plane it might have been a different story.

“It looks like structurally it’s just the undercarriage that has been damaged

which is very lucky.”

Tweed-Byron Police Chief Inspector Matt Kehoe (pictured) said the acci dent happened at about 5pm.

“Police were contacted by the Aus tralian Transport Safety Bureau about the plane,” he said.

“He has put it down on the aban doned airstrip here at Hastings Point (at the end of the Cabarita Beach Pony Club track to the beach).

“Thankfully he has done a terrific job in getting it down and walking away uninjured because it’s a bit of a roughie; you would only just call it an airstrip.

“We had rescue services come down from Archerfield Airport (Brisbane)

to make sure he was okay.”

Hastings Point resident Linda Mol loy was one of the many residents who saw the plane in trouble.

“We were sitting at the headland when I saw the plane come over the shop (Hastings Point General Store),” Linda told the Weekly.

“It was low and going slow and then I noticed it sounded like a broken lawnmower and then I noticed the motor wasn’t running at all and I wondered if it was a glider.”

“My friend was talking and I said to her, ‘I’m sorry, I am listening but I can’t take my eyes off this plane; I feel like it’s going to crash.”

Linda saw it flying over the beach

front homes and units on the north side of the creek.

“It was really low and I thought it was going to crash,” she said.

“It disappeared behind the trees (behind the beach) and then I saw a plume go up and I thought it was smoke.

“I was in shock and then I realised it was sand or dust.”

“Then we saw another plane circling and wondered if it had seen it.”

The other plane had seen the land ing and heard the pilot calling Air Traffic Control for help.

Both wings were removed from the plane before it was taken away on a tilt tray truck for repairs.

A PILOT has made a brilliant emer gency landing on a rough, abandoned airstrip near Cabarita Beach late on Wednesday, November 23, walking away without injury.

EMERGENCY LANDING: It's a landing pilot Mike O'Neill won't soon forget. But he did walk away.

Cultural fishing trial launches

A NEW approach to managing cultural fishing will be trialled in the Tweed Shire over the next two years by the NSW Gov ernment, in partnership with the local Aboriginal community.

Member for Tweed Geoff Provest said the commencement of the Tweed Aborig inal Cultural Fishing Local Management Plan reflects the need and desire for local Aboriginal communities to have greater input into cultural fisheries management at a local level.

“The development of the Tweed Local Management Plan has been an extensive and iterative process of consultation with Traditional Owners and the broader local Aboriginal community,” Mr Provest said.

“We acknowledge the differences be tween Aboriginal communities and their cultural fishing needs and aspirations across NSW, which is why the Local Man agement Plan approach is being trialled to address specific needs at a community level.

“The Local Management Plan addresses the areas of fishing and fishing equipment to be used (for example line, traps, nets); species of fish, including those of particu lar cultural significance; take and posses sion limits and how the community will

be directly involved in management of the trial and management of cultural fishing.

“The NSW Government recognises the significance of fisheries resources to Aboriginal communities across the state and this trial will assist in informing the best way to protect and promote cultural fishing access going forward.”

Mr Provest said the needs and aspira tions of the Tweed Aboriginal community have been captured through the engage ment process and considered in finalising management arrangements in the plan.

“The Local Management Plan will test the effectiveness of a customised cultur al fishing management framework that recognises the need for Aboriginal com munity to access the fisheries resources in pursuit of their cultural practices,” Mr Provest said.

“Evaluation of this project over the twoyear trial will inform future decisions about how Aboriginal cultural fishing in NSW is managed into the future.”

A Local Management Plan is a collective of arrangements that provides access to fisheries resources for a local Aboriginal community in pursuit of their cultural practices. It also presents communities with the opportunity for involvement in

fisheries management.

Across all other areas of NSW, cultural fishing practices are being supported by: the Aboriginal Cultural Fishing Interim Access Arrangements, which enable high er cultural take and possession limits for all species.

These arrangements enable at least dou ble the existing recreational fishing limits for cultural fishing, with some species such as abalone having five times the recreational limit.

Issuing of permits under Section 37 of the Fisheries Management Act 1994 for higher harvest levels to occur for culturally important community events, education and training.

Over 140 permits have been issued for cultural fishing activities in NSW since 2010.

Supporting projects to foster cultural and commercial fishing and Aboriginal community economic development ac tivities funded by the Aboriginal Fishing Trust Fund.

Since the first funding round in 2017/18, 28 projects have been funded out of the Aboriginal Fishing Trust Fund.

For more information, visit: www.dpi. nsw.gov.au/fishing/aboriginal-fishing

Footpath funds

WALKING AND cycling is set to become safer and simpler across the Tweed, after funds were secured from the state gov ernment’s $117 million Get NSW Active program.

Get NSW Active provides funding for local projects that en courage vibrant centres and liveable neighbourhoods through the creation of street environments that prioritise walking and cycling.

Member for Tweed Geoff Provest said the funding would go towards strengthening active transport in the community, making it easier for people to get around in a way that doesn’t always involve getting in the car.

“Not only does active transport give people options on how they want to get around, but it really lifts community spirit to see families, groups and individuals walking and cycling around,” Mr Provest said.

“The projects that have been funded include: $396,075 for an 850-metre shared user path at Overall Drive, Pottsville, $177,508 for a 525-metre footpath at Terranora Parade including nine kerb ramps to make it easier for people in wheelchairs or families with prams and $130,000 for a 450-metre footpath at Burringbar, 1.2-metres wide, reinforced concrete footpath to connect an existing path to the town centre and local school

“Members of our community will soon see these projects come to life and reap the very real benefits of an area that has a strong active transport infrastructure pipeline.”

The projects will now be progressed and delivered by Tweed Shire Council.

CULTURAL FISHING: Member for Tweed Geoff Provest has launched a two-year cultural fishing trial in the Tweed Shire

GET ACTIVE: Minister Rob Stokes, Geoff Provest with Lily Morgan, Tweed Shire Council Road Safety Officer at Pottsville

Uluru Cultural Connection trip

connection trip to Uluru.

New Horizons Tweed Heads works closely with Indigenous high school students, the De partment of Education and Police Liaison to support atrisk Indigenous youth.

The NMJ program current ly has 12 boys and 12 girls, many who have dropped out of school or who have been in jail or juvenile detention. The program includes breakfast, schooling and sports.

The children who successful ly participated in the program were rewarded with a cultural

New Horizons staff Barry Guidera and Jaki Treloar made the trip a reality whilst Southern Cross Distance Ed ucation partnered with New Horizons to offer education to the students.

“Highlights from the trip in cluded a guided tour with tra ditional owners from Maruku Arts,” Mr Guidera said.

The guide, Sarah, spoke in the traditional Pitjantjatjara language from the outset, which amazed the kids, who come from communities where their traditional languages were forbidden to be spoken are only being recovered and

taught today.

Sarah guided the children around the base of the rock sharing stories associated with specific sites and explained the rock art drawings and their meanings.

The children then participat ed in an art and tools work shop around a campfire.

An Anangu women wel comed our kids and taught them about her sacred land Uluru and passed on knowl edge about their ancient his tory, culture and spiritual connections to her land that is still alive and strong today.

Uluru was an absolute success.

“The kids have expressed their appreciation. They now have an understanding of the very distinct and wider Indig enous culture and population of our people in this place we all call home,” she said.

“One of the children said he knew he was in a significant place, and he just wanted that feeling to follow him back home. To other kids it was a dream come true — a once in a lifetime trip.”

NRSO conductor in focus

moved from Italy in 2020 as the pandemic took hold. How are you spending your time here as a local now?

1) You grew up in Italy and studied the violin. Can you please tell us what made you want to be a conductor and what was your journey like to become one?

I grew up in Milan where my mother, an Australian soprano, worked in the Teatro Alla Scala. My paternal uncle is a renowned violinist in the north of Italy and he toured the world with his trio 'Trio Di Como'. These were my first experiences with music as a young boy and helped to solidify my love for music. Very early on, I wanted to become a conductor. I was naturally attracted to that role and inspired by Riccardo Muti who was principal conductor at La Scala.

I studied violin, composition, conducting, and singing while I was in Milan. I played in orchestras, sang as a soloist, and had my conducting debut there in Puccini's La Bohème. I then completed a Masters and Fellowship at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester, England, and by then I was conducting professional ensembles, choirs, and orchestras.

The journey as a musician offers a wide range of experiences and knowledge gained, especially in my case, in various countries. You have to follow the music to wherever it takes you!

2)

Symphony Orchestra, having

I moved to the Gold Coast from Manchester at the beginning of the pandemic. I had already been coming to the Gold Coast all my life because my grandparents owned a unit at Coolangatta, and I would visit them with my Mum and Dad during the holidays. I always loved the place and the lifestyle; I find it very inspiring and beautiful and I now enjoy surfing. I'm also very happy to have made some beautiful music with the Northern Rivers Symphony Orchestra, the Coolamon Singers, and the Gold Coast Chamber Orchestra.

3) In this concert we are delighted to be joined by the Coolamon Singers, which you also conduct. Can you please tell us a bit about the Coolamon Singers?

I have always enjoyed conducting and working with voices. Being a trained singer myself, I find I know how to make people enjoy singing. I received an offer from the Coolamon Singers during the pandemic to take over the position of Music Director from the delightful Leith Rogers who was retiring from the position. The choir has over 30 years of history; I am delighted by their enthusiasm, motivation and skills and very glad to be working with them on a weekly basis. Our repertoire spans from classical to well-known favourites from opera and musical theatre. I like the fact there is a touch of Italy in the programme since we will be performing Vivaldi's wonderful Gloria RV589.

Christmas Festival 2022 will be held on Sunday 4 December 2022, 2.30pm NSW time at St Joseph's Catholic Church, Tweed Heads. For tickets please visit nrso.com.au

by Marco Bellasi

INDIGENOUS HIGH school students from Tweed Heads attended the NMJ Uluru Cul tural Connection trip recently.

We interview Marco Bellasi, our current Conductor-in-Residence for the Northern Rivers Symphony Orchestra. Whilst his talent in orchestral conducting is well recognised, few of us know Marco is also a bass-baritone singer, and the regular conductor for the Coolamon Singers. Here he tells us a little bit about himself.

We are very fortunate to have you with us in the Northern Rivers

Auditions now open

MORE LOCAL actors are needed to fill various roles for Murwillumbah Theatre Company’s (MTC) epic production of the Shakespearean tragedy Macbeth.

The story of the rise and fall of an 11th cen tury Scottish lord is one of The Bard’s most enduring tragedies, performed endlessly on stage and in film.

This MTC production will be in traditional style, with all lines and roles intact from the original script.

Speaking and non-speaking roles are up for grabs in MTC’s mammoth staging of the swash buckling “Scottish play”.

Macbeth director Lydia Plim said she wanted to urge all candidates to put their hands up.

“Whether you are an experienced actor or just a beginner, everyone is welcome to audi tion for a role in our upcoming production of Macbeth,” she said.

“There are a variety of roles still vacant and we are looking for people who are willing and able to commit to learning lines, turning up and participating in the busy rehearsal and performance schedule.”

Ms Plim said there are nine performances to be held at the Murwillumbah Civic Centre.

“We already have some exceptional actors

cast in the leads and seconds roles plus an en thusiastic, talented team of creatives who are already working on bringing this dramatic piece to life,” she said.

“A play of this nature is both exciting and challenging to produce and direct and I am looking forward to working with everyone in volved to create something special for MTC.”

Auditions for the last few spots in the MarchApril production of Macbeth will be held at 7pm on Tuesday, December 13, at the Mur willumbah Civic Centre auditorium.

For more enquiries, please contact email: lyd iaplim@hotmail.com or phone 0414 234 124.

Frontmen form duo

By Madeleine Murray

THE POPULAR duo X-Port is playing at the Cudgen Surf Club in Kingscliff on Sunday, December 11.

Terry Perkins and Al Colefax have been front men in various bands across three decades, playing popular classic covers that rocked pub crowds from Brisbane to Sydney.

Terry’s band Preston featured new wave, punk, ska and rock.

Al’s band Innocent Bystanders entertained punters with driving classic pub rock.

These two exceptional frontmen have teamed up to form a new duo.

“We decided it was time to strip it back and enjoy our versions of classic middle of the road, and rock classics,” Terry told The Weekly.

“It’s a great opportunity to perform laidback versions of popular songs from bands like Drag on, the Beatles, the Rolling Stones and INXS, to name a few.”

X-Port will be at the Cudgen Surf Club Kings cliff on Sunday, December 11, from 3.30pm.

Terry’s band Preston is back at the Kingscliff Beach Hotel Friday, December 16, 7pm-10pm.

Get involved with the next MTC production

READY TO ROCK: Get ready for a big gig at the Cudgen Surf Club soon

IS EVERYONE amped up for Avatar 2?!

In the first Avatar, James Cameron and his crew’s massive undertaking pushed the boundaries of technology to transport us to the planet Pandora, a fantastical place where many fans longed to belong, and created the biggest box office hit of all time, with the lifetime-gross-takings edging towards US$3billion.

Over a decade in the making, Avatar 2 explores underwater worlds, causing many of the delays and challenges that this hotlyanticipated sequel encountered during its prolonged gestation.

To accommodate taking this film on policy, enabling you to see it at The Regent at first release, we will be open six days a week from 10am starting Thursday, December 15, and for a full fortnight straight, from Boxing Day…public holidays included…primarily showing Avatar 2.

It’s incredibly monopolistic for single-screen cinemas to be forced to screen it so many times, particularly with a film this long! To show it thrice a day leaves little room for anything else. So, I recommend you

get your finer film fix earlier in the month, with 10 magnificent movies showing over the next fortnight, before The Blockbuster and kids’ films dominate the screen for the school holidays. Decision to Leave would be a perfect place to start, having won Best Director at Cannes, scooping six Blue Dragon awards, and is a hot contender for the Best Foreign Film Oscar.

It is also epically long, and with such a small turn-out to screenings so far, I’ve had to adjust the schedule from previously advertised, leaving just two last chances to see this intriguing film this weekend. We also have fabulous live shows in the leadup to Christmas, with something special on every weekend. I realise it’s a bustlingly busy time of year, and have vague recollections of fantasising in both my Decembers so far, that perhaps we should all just take a welldeserved holiday before the holidays!...from the beginning of December, close the cinema for the month, and open back up on Boxing Day when the big releases hit! I guess we’ll see how the Avatar 2 experiment goes… commencing December 15!

In the Grey opens

canoes and one unforgettable adventure.

FREE with support from the Tweed Shire Council. Registration is required via their trybooking website.

***PLEASE NOTE THE MOVIE SCHEDULE HAS CHANGED SINCE PREVIOUSLY ADVERTISED***

NEW FILMS this week: THE LAND + ARMAGEDDON TIME

ON OUR BALCONY: two talented musicians!

Sat (6-8pm) BILL JACOBI & Sun (3-5pm) JESSE WITNEY

Next week SHE SAID starts screening in the cinema, and it’s all female finesse, with no damsels in distress, on our Balcony, as SALI BRACEWELL graces our stage on Sat 10th (6-8pm) and then the beautiful MEL SCARLETT debuts on our Balcony, Sunday arvo (3-5pm)

COMING SOON: Fri 9th – Ohhh la la! French Club is back with a critically-acclaimed romance, WAITING FOR BOJANGLES (11AM), followed by French Film Chat (by donation) and delicious treats from Ben’s Patisserie, for a fully French indulgence.

Sat 10th The Tweed Regional Museum presents SALTWATER STORY followed by a panel discussion.

BOOK NOW! Fri 16th Theatre comes to The Regent’s stage, with a one woman show, starring Madeleine West, bringing you her version of the famous play, THE VERY LAST LIST OF VIVIEN WALKER.

Thu 22nd Celebrate Summer Solstice with the COUNTRY WITCHES ASSOCIATION, starring Mandy Nolan & Áine Tyrrell.

Conjure your coven, and unleash your inner witch for a night out with the wise women… and the men who dare!

THE TWEED Regional Gallery is currently exhibiting In the Grey: The Saltwater Story, a documentation of connection, collaboration, co-operation and cultural continuance.

The exhibition is extended to The Regent Cin ema on Saturday, December 10, from 5pm, with a screening of the documentary film, Saltwater Story, followed by a panel discussion.

Join author Benjamin Allmon, photographer David Kelly, director Jeff Licence and special guests as they discuss the voyage of discovery with Bundjalung canoe maker Kyle Slabb and the local Indigenous communities.

This exhibition and documentary film relates author Benjamin Allmon’s voyage of discovery with Bundjalung canoe maker Kyle Slabb and the local Indigenous communities, as they set out on an intrepid journey in traditional canoes from the heart of the Gold Coast to North Stradbroke Island, a journey not made for over 100 years.

The journey covers 70km, three days, two

Beginning as one man’s attempt to educate himself, this project soon became something far bigger — The Saltwater Story — a fully-il lustrated book, with 177 photos by renowned photographer David Kelly and a feature-length documentary by award-winning director Jeff Licence.

Head to the Tweed Regional Gallery to see the amazing photographs by David Kelly, and a canoe crafted and paddled by young Bund jalung, Yugambeh, and Quandamooka men.

Then come along to The Regent for the docu mentary film, gleaning further insights from the experience with the panel discussion. Tickets only $10. Bookings advised.

The artists would like to acknowledge the Bundjalung, Yugambeh and Quandamooka peoples, upon whose lands this story occurred.

The Saltwater Story was made possible by sup port from The Australia Council for the Arts, Arts Queensland, Gold Coast City Council, and Silver Service Marine.

Kingscliff carols

By Jonathon Howard

KINGSCLIFF LIONS Club is proud to an nounce its popular Carols by the Coast at Row an Robinson Park are returning to Kingscliff on Tuesday, December 13, from 6.30pm.

The event has booked some outstanding local talent to perform this year including Emmagen Rain, Paul Ensby, carol group Melody Makers and local schools.

Carols by the Coast convenor John Evering ham said he wanted to invite the entire com munity to bring their chairs and rugs and get comfortable for a very special event.

“This is going to be a big return for our Kings cliff carols,” he said.

“It’s a chance to sing along as a community and enjoy the festive spirit.”

Mr Everingham said after the impact of COVID-19, “this is a chance to celebrate to gether”.

“We’ve been so fragmented of late, and this is a great chance reconnect,” he said.

“Santa will also be making a special appear ance.”

The event is kindly sponsored by Kingscliff Bowls Club and the musical director is Geoff Dart.

For further information or to get involved please phone: 0400 741 007 or for the musical program please phone: 0438 545 828.

The Regent Spotlight

Kingscliff Carols are set for a big return this month. See page 30 for more Christmas events

Birthing

in the mountains not far from Murwillumbah, created an awesome lifestyle.

“We have a great mix of beauty and freedom to raw and real, life’s challenges,” she said.

From her late teens, Lisa was aware of an internal emotional struggle, to discover later in life that she wasn’t alone (emotional wounds accompanied with an often over chattering mind)!

Another great aspect of concern has been the many acts of heartlessness in our world and the separation/dividing among people.

“I could feel within my heart, there must be more enriching ways to live,” she said.

For many years Lisa experienced and searched to create balance and harmony in her life.

Lisa loves being involved in what she refers to as loving service for others (it’s not just work).

“If we put our hearts into what we do, it brings a richness into our lives, something money can’t buy,” she said.

After 25 years of massage (preventative body work) and 15 years within the disability field, she continues to blossom and grow.

Lisa has also facilitated exercise and quiet mind classes in her local halls over the years.

Happy Heartz first workshop

is running monthly, offering a lifetime template, with unlimited ways to explore, create and play!! Our heart is an extraordinary place of power and compassion, truly life changing. Future workshops are on their way, including Ultimate Relationship; and Balancing between the Art and Act of Sex.

“I feel honoured and excited to be sharing my long- time dream of Happy Heartz, made with Love and Courage. I welcome any inquiries or groups who are interested in an uplifting and inspiring workshop,” she said.

Contact: Happyheartz@live. com or call Lisa on 0404 089 485. Website: happyheartz.com.au

LIVING in the beautiful Tweed Shire for the last 30 years, Happy Heartz owner Lisa Clark feels truly blessed.

and raising her daughter in an old farmhouse

Positions Vacant

Positions Vacant

FARMER NEEDS HELP Excellent Remuneration. All enquiries welcome. Ph: (07) 5590 7029

DELIVERY DRIVERS WANTED Tweed Valley Weekly is seeking several drivers for newspaper delivery every Thursday Morning. Great Rates, Must be available Thursday Mornings, Insurance provided for first year. Phone 02 6672 4443

DRIVERS WANTED Are you on the pension and looking for extra cash, why not drive a taxi. Unemployed and got a good driving record. For more information contact Ken 0412 899 145

Snake Relocation

Social Group

SOCIAL GROUP OVER 50, Men and ladies, Singles, Organized outings, Get togethers, Nice people and Friendship. Phone 0428 523 423. Genuine people only

To Let

COOLANGATTA room to rent 200 metres from the beach, Club, shops, fully furnished, cooking facilities, No lease and No bond. Over 50’s from $225-$250 per week. (07) 5599 1089

ROOM TO RENT 2 weeks bond, $260 per week, free wifi , boarding house, full size kitchen. Well presented, big backyard. Tweed Heads, good location - contact Robert 0401 172 656

Public Notice

Principal Archaeologist

Virtus Heritage Pty Limited PO Box 101

Pottsville NSW 2489

Planit Consulting 11-13 Pearl Street Kingscliff NSW 2487

Phone: (02) 6674 5001

Date:

Wellness

Graham Ronald Abernethy

Late of Tweed Heads.

Formerly of Terranora. Passed away peacefully on Wednesday 23rd November 2022. Aged 71 Years.

Dearly loved Husband of Jenny.

Loved Father of Paul and Kim.

Cherished Pa of Jake, Dylan, Madi and Jesse.

Family and Friends are warmly invited to attend Graham’s Funeral Service to be held at

Tweed Heads Memorial Gardens, 176 Kirkwood Road, Tweed Heads South on ursday 1st December 2022 at 11:30am (NSW Time).

Ph: (02) 6672 2144 Murwillumbah McGuiness Funerals

Death Notices

DUNCAN Irene Joyce 24/11/2022

White Lady Funerals 07 5536 5300

a’COURT Glenn Robert 24/11/2022

White Lady Funerals 07 5536 5300

BROCKWELL James Thomas 23/11/2022

White Lady Funerals 07 5536 5300

PHILLIPS John Edmund 26/11/2022

White Lady Funerals 07 5536 5300

PHILLIPS Raymond John 17/11/2022

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

SNELL Donna Lee 20/11/2022

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

PARRY Noel Lancaster 21/11/2022

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

EMERSON Daphne 22/11/2022

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

MILHAM William Robert Alfred 23/11/2022

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

WARDLE Ralph Joseph 23/11/2022

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

GULLIS Gloria Phyllis 24/11/2022

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

BATES William Scott 25/11/2022

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

GARBETT Birt 26/11/2022

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

MATTS Robin Edward 27/11/2022

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

TERMYTELEN Vanessa 27/11/2022

Dolphin Funerals 0427 743 817

McLENNAN Daphne Gloria 16/11/2022

McGuiness Funerals 0266 722 144

In loving memory ...

Colin Claude McMillan

Late of Upper Crystal Creek. Passed away peacefully on Saturday 26 th November 2022. Aged 95 Years.

Dearly loved Husband of Margaret.

Loved Father and Father-in-law of Marissa & Peter and Richard & Louise. Cherished ‘Pa’ of Jeremy, Andrew, Kate and Lexie and Pa to four Great-Grandchildren.

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend Col’s Funeral Service to be held at Tweed Valley Lawn Chapel, Eviron Road Eviron on Friday 2 nd December 2022 at 10:30am (NSW Time).

Ph: (02) 6672 2144 Murwillumbah McGuiness Funerals

Birt Garbett

Late of “Ponderosa”, Bilambil Heights. Passed away peacefully 26/11/2022.

Husband of Evelyn (deceased).

Loved Dad to Jeffrey and Glenda and their partners.

Loved Pop of six grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

Loved Brother to Ron.

Family and Friends are warmly invited to attend Birt’s Funeral Service to be held at Pioneer Country Chapel, 98 Fraser Drive, Tweed Heads South on Wednesday 7th December at 1:00pm NSW time.

Jake Ryan Birkett

2006—2013

Every day that has passed is a day of love and laughter missed

We long for the day we can hold you again

John 5.28

Dad, Mum and Family

Death Notice

Jay Burnett

Jay (formerly Joan) Denise Burnett, 97, of Bupa Pottsville, passed away peacefully at Tweed Hospital on Thursday 17th of November. She was born on 24 June 1925 in Taltal Chile to Ethel and James Stevenson. She married Rory Burnett in 1951 in Melbourne and divorced in 1970. Jay is survived by her children Caroline, Guy and Susan and grandchildren Hayden, Miles, Drew, Carley, and Lucas. The family held a private gathering in her honour on Wednesday 30th November and her ashes will be scattered at sea, according to her wishes. Jay will be remembered with love by her dear friends and family both in Australia and around the world. Forever in our hearts.

Funeral Directors

Mudge, Neil Charles

Passed away on ursday 30th June, 2022 at Inglewood Qld

His wish was to be placed with his parents.

is will take place at Murwillumbah General Cemetery entrance on Friday 9th December, 2022 at 2pm NSW time. See you all there.

Will be sadly missed. Rest in peace.

Steph Gilmore is NSW Athlete of the Year

By

WORLD CHAMPIONS, surfer

Stephanie Gilmore and para-triathlete Lauren Parker, were crowned Athlete of the Year and Athlete of the Year with a Disability for a third time at the 2022 rebel NSW Champions of Sport Ceremony gala dinner at the International Convention and Exhi bition Centre in Darling Harbour on Monday, November 28.

Tweed Heads resident Gilmore pre viously won the Athlete of the Year Award in 2010 and 2014, while Park er was named Athlete of the Year With a Disability in 2018 and 2019.

This year, Gilmore became the most dominant surfer in female history winning her eighth World Title to make her the greatest surfer ever in world surfing, overtaking fellow Australian Layne Beachley (seven

world titles).

The Kingscliff surfer previously won the world title in 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2012, 2014 and 2018.

On the final day of competition in the World Surf League in California in September, Gilmore had to contest five heats to finally be crowned the 2022 World Champion after beating Carissa Moore in the final.

Moore ended the year with the high est point score which would previous ly have given her the title however the new format for the WSL sees the top five surfers surf off in a knockout round of heats for the title.

Gilmore was almost knocked out by Costa Rican Brisa Hennessy in the first round clinching a critical wave in the final seconds, and was also pushed by Tatiana Weston-Webb in the next round.

After that it was all Gilmore, who

produced possibly the best surfing of her life, to blow first Johanne Defay and then Moore out of the water.

In 2019 Casuarina surfer Zahli Kelly missed out on qualifying for the Women’s Championship Tour by one place when she was knocked out a round short by Isabella Nicholls.

Unfortunately COVID put paid to her aspirations in the ensuing years and although she stands at 23rd on the Women’s Challenger Series rank ings, she will miss out on qualifying this year.

Unfortunately some of the events Kelly excels at have been taken off the tour (and fans have to put up with the revival of the wave pool event and oth ers that don’t supply quality surf that places like Cloudbreak do), which she won the year she nearly qualified.

So, it will be back to the starting board next year for Kelly but look out

Sports complex given green light

By Jo Kennett

THE SPORTING Facility Communi ty fund has been granted to Piggabeen Sporting Complex at Seagulls, Tweed Heads West.

Tweed MP Geoff Provest announce ment the grant on Saturday, Novem ber 26.

“It was my pleasure to announce the sporting facilities grant from the NSW Government of over $1,600,000 that will enable further upgrades to the Piggabeen Sporting Complex,” Mr Provest said.

“A wonderful accomplishment from Matty Francis and his team in sub mitting a well thought out plan and submission.”

The funding following a commit ment from the State Government to inject more than $100 million into community sporting infrastructure to create new facilities and undertake

major redevelopments on existing facilities.

Premier Dominic Perrottet said 39 projects had been awarded funding under the NSW Government’s MultiSport Community Facility Fund.

“Sport is part of the fabric of our communities. It keeps people healthy, active and socially connected,” Mr Perrottet said.

“The Liberal and Nationals Gov ernment has an undeniable track re cord of investing in our community infrastructure and this program is all about creating modern, accessible fa cilities that cater for a range of sports and abilities.”

The program provides grants be tween $1 million and $5 million for new or upgraded sport facilities.

Projects funded through this round of the program include a major in door sporting facility at Lane Cove, upgrades to Lauren Jackson Sports

Centre in Albury and a premium re gional sporting facility at Olds Park in Penshurst.

Minister for Sport Alister Henskens said the NSW Government has now invested $200 million in new and up graded community sporting facilities through the first two rounds of the program.

“These projects will not only pro vide more opportunities for people to play sport, but they will also generate a local sports facility infrastructure boom, creating thousands of jobs and delivering an economic boost for communities across the State,” Mr Henskens said.

“Regardless of age, ability or the sport you play, this program is deliv ering game-changing projects that promote participation and secure a brighter future for local communities across NSW.”

More information about the program is available at: https:// www.sport.nsw.gov.au/grants/

Taylen making his mark on motos

By Jo Kennett

YOUNG LOCAL motorbike

November 27.

Taylen competed in four rounds and made the finals on two different bikes, finishing on the podium for both.

Taylen finished first in the 85cc 2 stroke/150cc 4stroke class in the 9 to Under 13 age group.

He also came third in the 65cc bike class for 9 to Under 13-year-olds.

He was also one of four nominated for the Junior Dirt Track Rider of the

Year (17yrs and Under) according to mum Elly Howard.

“Although he didn’t take the overall win, a nomination at 11 years is a great achievement,” his mum said in a social media post.

Keep up to date with his progression in the sport on insta @taylenhoward

for her in the Haleiwa Challenger in Hawaii, which is on this week starting from around 5am NSW time .

Jo Kennett

Stephanie Gilmore

SPORTING SUCCESS: The Piggabeen Sporting Complex is pushing ahead

racer

Taylen Howard has had another big win in the 2022 Honda Coastal Mo torcycle Centre New South Wales Junior Track Championship meet ing held at the Central Coast Junior Motorcycle Club track on Sunday,

Taylen takes the win. Inset is Taylen was a finalist in the Junior Dirt Bike Rider of the Year (17 and under).

LITTLE RIPPER! Taylen on his way to another win

Real Estate

FROM COAST TO COUNTRY

All about pricing as demand remains

By Jo Kennett

PROPERTY VALUES across the Tweed-Richmond region, which includes Byron Bay, remain in high demand despite some of the biggest price drops in the last quarter — but it’s all about pricing according to local agents.

Dwelling values in the region fell 0.82 per cent year on year, and 6.3 per cent from the peak, but remember prices are still up 51 per cent from before the pandemic, with the median property value at $830,000.

Prices in the Richmond-Tweed fell 11.7 per cent in the last quarter, the strongest decline in the country, which CoreLogic Economist Kaytlin Ezzy said was “unsurprising”.

“Throughout the COVID period, values skyrocketed, rising more than 50 per cent and taking the median house value to more than $1.1 million,” she said.

“However, the impact of this year’s floods, coupled with seven consecutive rate rises, has seen

house values fall in the region by nearly 16 per cent since April.”

Ms Ezzy also cited high inflation and waning consumer confidence contributing to the pace of value declines accelerating across regional Australian property markets.

Tate Brownlee Real Estate principal Tate Brownlee said it was the top end of the market that had slowed, but those owners can afford to hold on to property until rates stabilise.

“We still have strong interest from interstate and people moving up the coast and delays with new builds have accentuated demand,” he said.

“A lot of top end sales have slowed, so properties in the $3 million to $5 million range aren’t selling so you don’t have the volume of higher end properties and rural is the same.

“The higher end of the market isn’t driven by the movement of interest rates.

“I have sold my last five auctions back to back which shows demand is still there.”

Open Homes

Saturday, December 3

First National Real Estate Murwillumbah

82 River Street, Sth Murwillumbah, 9-9:30am

10 Fawcett Street, Tumbulgum, 9-9:30am

11 Bagoo Ave, Murwillumbah, 9-9.30am

9 Mooball St, Murwillumbah, 10-10.30

109 Bonnydoon Rd, Uki, 10-10.30

12 Riverbend Way, Murwillumbah, 10-10:30am

2/14 Somerville Circuit, Murwillumbah, 10-10:30am

5 Kintyre Crescent, Banora Point, 10-10:30am

7 Amethyst Place, Murwillumbah, 10:45-11:15am

105 Commercial Rd, Murwillumbah. 11-11.30am

2043 Kyogle Rd, Terragon, 11-11.30am

141 Glenock Rd, Dum Dum, 11:45am-12:15pm

261 Tunnel Rd, Stokers Siding, 12-12.30pm

4 Ted Brown Cl, Kunghur - 12.15 – 12.45

Tate said people think prices have come down “but really the market finds its feet.”

“Banora had 110 properties on the market in September but it’s already down to 80 so supply is down 20 per cent,” he said.

“Sellers are still getting good prices which shows there is still confidence, but agents are sometimes not adjusting to the right level.

“They are listing too high but the market probably peaked in April/ May after the floods.

“Where the market is being impacted is the first-home buyers who just aren’t there anymore; that’s in the $700,000 to $950,000 range.”

“That was a big group and that has dropped as their buying capacity shifted with interest rate rises.”

JET Real Estate director Jason Dittmar said properties were on the market longer now.

“First-home buyers and a lot of investors have gone out of the market because they are calculating returns with the

32 Meadow Place, Uki, 12:30-1pm

150 Midginbil Rd, Midginbil, 1.15-1.45pm

42 Meadow Place, Uki, 1.15-1.45pm

95 Starlight Way, Pumpenbil, 2.30-3pm

DJ Stringer

increase in interest rates,” he said.

“Most people see another two to three interest rate rises and after that I think it will stabilise, but until they stop there is no confidence in investing.

“There are still cash buyers out there who will buy something which is priced correctly, but there are a hell of a lot of floodaffected properties and the days on market for them are starting to stretch out.”

JET director Elizabeth Hickey said some people are still being told their properties are worth more than they are.

“It’s about pricing properties competitively and seeing that it’s priced correctly,” she said.

“We do a lot of research and don’t just tell someone a price we make up,” Jason said.

“We can prove that the price range is accurate and the data we are trying to use is just for the last three months.

“A property sold this time last year is not comparable.

“People can get appraisals or get a registered independent

valuer to come in and you then are in a really good place to negotiate.

“If you don’t need to sell at the moment and you’ve been on the market for 120 or 150 days you could consider pulling it off the market until the interest rate rises slow down.”

Jason reckons it’s not all doom and gloom for sellers.

“We have been through these times before,” he said.

“In the last five years some people have doubled their money so if you just drop 10 per cent you’ve still made a fortune.”

973 Reserve Creek Road, Reserve Creek, 11am-12 noon

31 Yalambee Avenue, Cudgera Creek, 12.30 - 1.30pm

MANA Real Estate

4 Walgooan Way, Ocean Shores, 9-9.30am

4/2 Nunyar Court, Ocean Shores, 9.30- 10am

1603/22 Kirkwood Rd, Tweed Heads South ‘Price Guide $1.295M-$1.350M’ 10-10:30am 1054/14-22 Stuart St, Tweed Heads ‘Price Guide $770K-$790K’ 10-10:30am

1102/14-22 Stuart St, Tweed Heads ‘Price Guide $780K-$790K’ 10:30-11am

7/22 Recreation St, Tweed Heads ‘Price Guide $490K-$510K’ 11-11:30am

8 Castle Ct, Tugun ‘Interest Over $895,000’ 11-11:30am QLD Time

2/7 Albatross Circuit, Tweed Heads West ‘$740K-$760K’ 11:30-12pm

14/80 Duringan St, Currumbin ‘Interest Over $1.1M’ 12- 12:30pm QLD Time

3/12 Marian St, Tweed Heads West ‘Price Guide $420K-$450K’ 12:30-1pm

Ray White Rural Belinda Franks

135 McAuleys Road, Terranora, (Sat & Sun), 9-10am

We’re here to connect the property dots

1/3 Halyard Court, Ocean Shores, 10.30-11am

51 Garden Avenue, Nunderi, 11-11.45am

10 Flintwood Street, Pottsville, 12-12.30pm

30 Nugget Street, Diggers Camp, 12.30-1pm

Tate Brownlee Real Estate

14 Point Lookout Chase, Murwillumbah, 9-9:30am

108 Ash Drive, Banora Point, 10-10:30am

21 Piggabeen Road, Tweed Heads West, 11-11:30am

17 Pulkara Court, Bilambil Heights, 11-11:30am

1/85 Henry Lawson Drive, Terranora, 12-12:30pm

37 Illawong Crescent, Terranora, 1-1:30pm

20 Bosun Boulevard, Banora Point, 2:30-3pm

JET Real Estate

32 Ewing St, Murwillumbah (Friday only), 12-12.30pm

MANA makes it possible

From the many options, locations, agents, budgets, and property features - to choosing the one. Every day, we connect the dots. We connect vendors to buyers, tenants to leases, and ideas to reality. It’s what we’re all about. It’s our passion. It’s what makes us tick. We are the property dot-connecting glue in our community.

Under instructions from Transport for NSW, this property will be offered for

Consisting of approximately 1047 acres (426ha), large properties such as this, so close to everything are a rare find.

Near to the coastal villages of Wooli and Minnie Water with views to the Solitary Island Marine Park from the escarpment, a 25 minute drive to Grafton and 10 minutes to the new Pacific Highway, this huge holding of undisturbed freehold hinterland begs to be explored.

Due to its natural significance the acreage has been selected for the Biodiversity Stewardship program where state funding has been allocated for conservation purposes. Approx. $1,400,000 is held in trust in perpetuity. Funding covers maintenance of tracks, weed control, fire management and much more.

There are a number of zones excluded from the biodiversity areas which allow a range of possibilities.

Home site and entry trail approx. 5ha (12.35ac) Blackbutt timber plantation approx. 12.5ha (30ac) 10 campsite areas of 2,500m2 each Central exclusion area 1.75ha (4.32ac)

Escarpment viewing area/campsite 5ha (12.35ac) Suitable for a simple lifestyle of living in the bush and appreciating some of the best nature has to offer or perfect for a small scale eco tourism venture (STCA) where hikers, campers and mountain bikers can enjoy the great outdoors.

A fabulous opportunity to secure a natural wonderland. This property will be sold at Auction, Register now!

Scenic Coastal Acreage with Magnificent Island & Ocean Views – Auction this Saturday!

sale by Auction, at our Maclean office.

Highly productive cane farm, maintained & managed at the highest level by meticulous owner/operator. Consistent yields over 10,000 tonnes annually, offered on WIWO basis with extensive list of Plant & Equipment, all immaculately maintained & serviced. 2 fully renovated homes, substantial shedding. Multiple titles, two street frontage. Retiring owners welcome all genuine enquiries. Contact Belinda Franks for information.

Beautifully presented, large 4 bedroom home has 5 separate living spaces providing ample room for a large family. Brand new pool house & separate studio. Great location, quiet area, 12km to the beach, M1 to commute north/south. 8.15 lush usable acres with spring-fed stream, ideal for kids, pets, golf or livestock. This home is a rare opportunity in the coastal rural market to get so much living amenity, ready to move into and enjoy. Genuine seller is committed elsewhere and requires immediate sale.

Privately positioned 3.08 Ha (7.6 acres) in a quiet culde-sac 8km to Pottsville beach, this low-set brick home offers 2 separate living areas, large kitchen & dining, lush lawn area fully fenced, outdoor deck, firepit & seating, pool with timber deck surrounds, a large solar array (battery ready), core-filled besser shed/workshop plus a separate Colorbond shed, vege patch with fenced paddocks. Come and check this one for value.