Tweed Valley Weekly, May 18, 2023

Flood recovery update

By Jonathon Howard

A TOTAL of 1,043 flood-impacted Tweed Shire homes are now registered for buybacks, house raising or retrofitting, according to the latest update from the Northern Rivers Reconstruction Corporation (NRRC), with 28 approved so far for voluntary buyback.

NRRC said a further 179 Tweed homes have been flagged as “indicatively eligible” for a voluntary buyback, as it works through one of the biggest disasters in Australia’s history.

NRRC is assessing a total pool of 6,471 Northern Rivers homes following the February/March 2022 flood.

The Tweed local government area is a close third in the number of registered properties after Lismore (2,277) and Richmond (1,071).

In response to media inquiries, NRRC provided a breakdown (pictured) of the number of properties under the Resilient Homes Program, and when owners can expect an update. These figures were accurate as of Friday, May 5.

“The NRRC is prioritising homes in the highest flood risk areas and case managers are speaking with the most severely impacted homeowners first,” a spokesperson for NRRC said.

“The voluntary buyback scheme will be offered to approximately 2,000 Northern Rivers residents located in the most vul-

nerable areas where major flooding would pose a catastrophic risk to life or where homes have been completely destroyed.”

Areas such as Railway Street in South Murwillumbah has been identified as one such location where buybacks are progressing.

The NRRC spokesperson said the process is reflective of the important balance between notifying people about their eligibility for buybacks and the need to ensure an “evidence-based and data-driven, and fair and equitable” process.

“All homeowners who have registered for the program, whether it is for buybacks, house raising or retrofitting, will be told their indicative eligibility by mid-year,” the spokesperson said.

“A fortnightly update is now available on the NRRC website which shows the amount of property owners contacted and forecast milestones.”

The spokesperson sought to address concerns around the time frames to contact residents and finalise the process.

“The NRRC appreciates everyone’s pa-

tience as it works through the eligibility of a large number of affected property owners,” the spokesperson said.

“The Resilient Homes Program is part of the Resilient Homes Fund that was announced on 28 October 2022 and is one of the largest resilience responses of its kind in Australian history.

“The Program has been developed by the Northern Rivers Reconstruction Corporation to improve the resilience of homes in high-risk flood areas in the Ballina, Byron, Clarence Valley, Kyogle, Lismore, Richmond Valley, and Tweed local government areas.

“The program will offer eligible homeowners one of the three available measures: home buybacks, home raising or home retrofit, based on expert property assessments, flood impact severity data, safety risks and potential future flood levels.”

YOUR THOUGHTS: Are you applying in the Tweed Shire? The Weekly would like to hear your thoughts. Please reach out via email: editor@theweekly.net.au

Special walk to school day

By Jo Kennett

NATIONAL WALK Safely to School Day on Friday, May 19, is combined with National Road Safety Week, and St Ambrose Catholic Primary School at Pottsville will have a special visit from local police highway patrol officers.

Primary school-aged children across Australia will make important steps towards a healthier future by participating in the day, which is championed by the Pedestrian Council of Australia.

“We are trying to encourage the kids to develop healthy habits by walking to school,” St Ambrose Pottsville student support worker Jeff Bottle said.

“We also have fruit waiting for them when they get to school so it’s not only about exercise, it’s about healthy eating as well.

“We have been participating every year since the school was first opened” The initiative aims to raise awareness of the health, road safety, transport and environmental benefits that regular walking,

or alternative active transport (especially to and from school) can provide for the long-term wellbeing of our children, not just on May 19, but every day.

Apart from the physical benefits, regular walking (or similar) also has proven benefits to children’s cognitive and academic performance.

National Road Safety Week runs from

May 14 to 21. Every year, around 1,200 people are killed and over 40,000 seriously injured on Australian roads. NSW Police are asking drivers to be a road safety champions, to wear a yellow ribbon, or put one on your car, and pledge to make roads safer for everyone.

National Walk Safely to School Day at St Ambrose Catholic Primary School Pottsville

Letter of the Week

You

Unmaintained roads question and a thank you

As celebrations in Britain come to an end for many, in the Tweed Shire we have reasons to still party on.

Jonathon Howard, the editor of Tweed Valley Weekly, has exposed so much affecting so many for last eight years that no other editor, council or councillors would.

Jonathon has reported on our important roads that are unmaintained by Council, with a high cost to maintain and vehicle repairs, that Council has no public liability insurance for.

Council records show they get requests to have five to 10 roads per year added to Council’s road maintenance schedule, they are regularly but infrequently received by Council.

For decades Sharps Road and Glengarrie Road, I know of two others not maintained by Council, now are.

Council wants $150 to give reasons why via a Freedom of Information request.

Councillors can get the reasons free, but refuse, when Council use our money against us trust suffers.

After Cyclone Debbie and the last flood requests are much higher. All roads were badly damaged and these 96 roads got nothing.

Sharps Road, Glengarrie and others sets a precedent for Council to put the other 90-plus roads on Council’s road maintenance schedule.

Nothing would improve the life of so many more in doing so.

All these property owners pay Council rates and they have been subsidising other’s roads for 50 years.

Jonathon shows the importance of a good press, and he deserves full praise of his leadership in bringing sensitive and important issues to the public where it has been 50 years that everyone else has ignored.

The Tweed Shire and public are better for it with The Weekly, and I congratulate Jonathon in doing so. He is also supported by a great team.

Ray Nardi, Kielvale

Great paper

I’m writing to say how good your paper is to read.

I’m visiting from Sutherland Sydney.

It is very informative and expresses many issues and interests.

The paper and print quality is excellent as well. Congratulations.

11) regarding Airbnb issues.

The NSW Government should have taken full control over this master plan and planned to build quality rentals for essential workers and those needing housing support to match the opening later in 2023 of this cracking new health facility.

you

in the coastal fringe where valuations have increased by 133 per cent, the example shows their rates will increase by 39 per cent.

In this case to say the Council does not receive any more money from the increase in land valuations is false.

the 2023/24 Budget, ensuring they remain available beyond 30 June this year.

We estimate that this means a further 250,000 Australians will be able to see their GP to learn their risk of heart disease before it’s too late.

Ken

Hull, Sutherland

Shire Past brush with royalty

On page 38 of Tweed Valley Weekly last week (May 11), a photo of King Charles III is featured alongside iconic locals, with the King opening the Murwillumbah Show in 1977.

Speaking with the now King is the president of the former Banana Festival, my father Bill Taylor ‘Banana Bill’.

Mr Taylor gave the King a special collectors banana keyring (pictured below). To which the King replied, “I don’t think there’s a bomb in it” referring to the safety aspect of royals receiving gifts from the public.

I wonder if he’s still got it?

Phil Taylor, South Murwillumbah

Where’s the housing for essential staff?

I am calling for an urgent reply from local politicians as to why the master plan for this highly sought-after new Tweed Valley Hospital at Cudgen does not include any buildings for essential worker accommodation?

There is a perfect space directly adjacent to the hospital on the corner of Cudgen Road and Tweed Coast Road, close to Kingscliff TAFE, bus routes and the M1.

I note Mayor Chris Cherry’s comments in The Weekly (Page 5, May

Bob Lemon, Pottsville Save water with native plants

Regarding the recent reports around saving water, which makes perfect sense.

Years ago I lived on a rural spot where the owner of the property said I could plant whatever I wanted. And before I was truly aware of reducing water use, I planted natives that have the long tap root that goes down to get water.

So, if you watch what you plant you don’t have to stand around for more than an hour watering all your plants. And they are natives with lovely flowers.

Bill Buckley, Crystal Creek Rates increase

It was very interesting to see Mayor Cherry state on the news recently that rates would only increase by 70 cents per week if the increase above the CPI was approved.

Ah, I don’t think so.

Firstly, the rates will increase by 4 per cent as approved by the government, plus a further 2.35 per cent if the Council can wrangle it via a special rate variation. This does not equate to 70 cents per week.

In the Tweed Shire Council media release on May 3, examples were given of how the current land valuations would affect the rates.

Those living in Banora Point have seen an increase of 50 per cent in land valuation but will see a decrease in their rates.

Those living in a particular area of Murwillumbah, whose land valuation has increased by 59 per cent will see only a minimal rate increase. But those who have chosen to live

I agree with Leigh Kealton, those of the population who live in the coastal fringe are being penalised for the choice they made many years prior to the current council’s rate reasoning.

In a letter received three years ago from Tweed Council, it states that the rates are actually a wealth tax.

Yes, the land valuations have risen alarmingly because of the property boom, but it is only of benefit to those who are willing to sell.

Just because your land valuation has risen does not mean you are wealthy.

The Tweed area has a large retiree population in the coastal fringe who live on pensions which limits their ability to afford an unreasonable increase in rates, electricity, etc.

Why is Council even considering burdening those who are already struggling in these economic times?

Look in your own backyard first, Council has a penchant for spending money on things that don’t concern them or useless items found either vandalised or of no benefit to anyone.

Why are they putting in steps along Mooball Creek where it is dangerous to swim when there are still roads that need repairing?

It makes one scratch your head at the logic behind some of the council’s decisions.

We did it – thank you

I am pleased to say that with the help of more than 41,000 Australians — including The Weekly readers of the Tweed Shire and Coolangatta — we did it. We saved the Medicare Heart Health Check.

The Australian Government has heard and understood the importance of this vital Check to the heart health of Australians and is funding a two-year extension of the Check in

More than 41,000 Australians signed the petition to save the Checks in just five weeks. Many sent letters to their local MPs, who in turn took up the issue with the government. Heart disease is mostly preventable but it is a silent killer.

As Federal Minister for Health and Aged Care, Mark Butler acknowledged in his announcement, the Medicare Heart Health Check is our most potent tool in compelling people to pay attention to their heart health before it’s too late.

We extend our gratitude to the Heart Foundation’s extended family: our sector partners, donors, volunteers and supporters, many of whom worked tirelessly to advocate for this life-saving initiative.

Thank you. Your efforts have helped improve the heart health of many Australians and we are grateful for your unwavering commitment to this cause.

David Lloyd, CEO, National Heart Foundation of Australia Story

correction

An article last week on the tragic death of a local contractor who was slashing a property at Piggabeen incorrectly stated that the tractor he was driving “rolled” down an embankment and lodged on a house pad, leading to his death.

The tractor did not roll down the embankment and the accident is currently under investigation.

The Weekly Editor

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.

Legacy development motion

By Jonathon Howard

TWEED MAYOR Chris Cherry is preparing a motion to seek legal advice around the highly charged topic of historic legacy developments, or so-called ‘zombie developments’, across the Tweed Shire, which she says are outdated and put fragile ecosystems at risk.

Legacy developments for Tweed Shire Council are defined as developments approved between 1980 and 2010, that have not been constructed, and are of a higher order development than a residential house or alteration to a house.

A case in point is a development on Cobaki Creek by MAAS Group Holdings at 60 Tringa Street, Tweed Heads West, where a 27-year-old legacy development approval is in place.

The site sold last year to MAAS for around $20 million and clearing commenced this year.

Although Council have called for MAAS to cease works, the company has declined and works continue.

Mayor Cherry is now calling on her fellow councillors to support her in seeking legal advice on what, if anything, can be done to bring legacy developments into line with current development standards.

“The motion seeks legal advice on whether councillors can have the delegation to call up any matter (Modification, CC, Compliance with Conditions) related to legacy developments where environmentally significant areas are likely to be impacted,” the motion reads.

The motion is supported by both the Tweed District Residents Association (TDRA) and Kingscliff Ratepayers and Progress Association (KRPA), who have made repeated calls for a moratorium on

existing legacy or zombie development approvals (DAs) on floodplains.

Although the state government continues to stress that councils, such as Tweed Shire Council, have the ability to address legacy DAs, Council’s latest report says its hands are tied unless the development consent is surrendered by the developer.

The Council management team said the revocation can only occur if there is a draft Local Environmental Plan or State Environmental Planning Policy that would be offended by the development proceeding.

“There are currently no such processes in play in the Tweed Shire,” Council’s report noted.

NSW Premier Chris Minns attempted to address the questions around legacy developments during a visit to Lismore prior to the NSW election, stating his office

will be “working closely with the planning minister as the government works on new rules to stop new developments on dangerous floodplains”.

“Having been on the ground in the region over the past couple of years, I know how important it is to get this addressed,” he said, but again stressing that councils hold the power.”

Mayor Cherry said more certainty was needed from the state government as to what is allowed on floodplains.

“To suggest that councils buy back these outdated consents is unrealistic, what we really need is certainty with regards to what is going to be allowable in the floodplain going forward, and I really hope the state government will come out with some state-wide changes in response to the flooding we saw across NSW last year,” Mayor Cherry said.

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CRITERIA FOR ENROLMENT

Students disengaging from school due to learning issues that are hampering participation and achievement in regular schooling.

*Students with a record of extreme or violent behaviour will not be accepted*

COST

We do not charge fees, however, a $275 per term levy covers all classroom materials, resources, excursions and travel.

CRITERIA FOR ENROLMENT

CRITERIA ENROLMENT

FEATURES

• Guaranteed academic improvement

• Focus on academic success in a supported environment

• Extra focus on literacy and numeracy to mastery

Students disengaging from school due to learning issues that are hampering participation and achievement in regular schooling.

Students disengaging from school due learning issues hampering participation and achievement regular schooling.

• Taught at instructional level

• Explicit and Direct Instruction - evidence-based practice

*Students with a extreme or violent will not be accepted*

• Continuous assessment for learning

• Extensive scaffolding and support

*Students with a record of extreme or violent behaviour will not be accepted* 89800

COST

COST

• Focus on self-discipline and high expectations of self and others

• Extensive Allied Health support

• One Teacher with three Assistant Teachers per class

MORE classroom materials, resources, excursions and travel.

We do not charge fees, however, a $275 per term levy covers all classroom materials, resources, excursions and travel.

We do not charge however, a $275 term levy covers classroom materials, resources, excursions and travel.

• Small school ranging from 90 to 150 students

Clearing has commenced at 60 Tringa Street despite Council's call for a halt

THE LEGAL LIGHT! Online subscriptions facing tougher laws

Many of us have had difficulty cancelling online subscriptions that just keep taking money out of our pockets.

It’s often a website that offered a free trial and discounts when you joined up, but you don’t use it any more. However, there it is every month on your credit card statement. It may only be a few dollars, nothing to get too worried about, but boy, it adds up over a year.

You try to cancel, but it proves difficult, needing longforgotten passwords, hard-to-find “unsubscribe” buttons or an unresponsive “contact us”. It is so frustrating that you give up, resigned to the dollars disappearing from your account every month.

You are not alone. Research by insurance group ING found Australians could save $1,261 a year on average by cutting back on subscriptions and other regular outgoings they no longer use.

The Consumer Policy Research Centre found 76 per cent of Australians had trouble cancelling an online subscription.

Business lawyer Geoff Roberson at Stacks Law Firm says there are moves afoot to tighten the laws governing subscriptions, to make it easier to unsubscribe and to crack down on businesses which make it difficult for consumers to end memberships and stop paying for their products.

“Companies that market their products online, with ongoing payments for membership or access, should be aware of how these new laws could impact the way they do business,” Mr Roberson said.

“Penalties under existing consumer laws can be severe. Businesses would be wise to seek legal advice to ensure they comply with any new laws.”

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has called for tougher laws to protect consumers from unfair practices such as subscription traps and confusing website design.

ACCC Chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb called for a general prohibition on unfair subscription practices which would enable the watchdog to move quickly as technology and business practices change.

“The terms and conditions [of many subscription services] say you can unsubscribe, but the practice of it is... almost impossible or bordering on impossible to do,” she said.

Competition Minister Andrew Leigh says he is looking at other countries’ laws that crack down on online unfair trading to help shape Australia’s new laws, expected later in 2023.

The new laws could also include a requirement for a business to delete all personal information it holds on you as soon as you unsubscribe.

Mr Roberson advises everyone to check their bank account for every little bill that appears. Of course, a guaranteed way to cancel a subscription is to cancel your credit card and get a new one. Inconvenient maybe, but you can wave goodbye to those unwanted subscriptions.

Dog attacks still an issue

By Jo Kennett

THERE WERE 16 dog attacks in the Tweed Shire in the first four months of the year and a local dog trainer says there are no quick fixes to change a dog’s aggressive behaviour.

The dog attacks were investigated by Tweed Shire Council Rangers with 119 incidents reported to Council last year.

Two dogs were surrendered to Council last week after killing a small dog named Harry at Tweed Heads.

Harry’s owner, Lauren Pollard, told The Weekly the dog was attacked from behind, as he was being walked on a lead during his daily walk.

She said the dogs that killed Harry had escaped from their yard.

Owner of Top Dog Academy dog behavioural specialists Rhonda Robinson said one of the reasons a dog becomes aggressive is through fear and lack of socialisation.

“Dogs can become aggressive due to a lack of socialisation in the critical phase of their life from eight to 16 weeks of age,” Rhonda said.

“If they experience a negative meeting/ greeting with other dogs or people in this phase it may cause fear-based aggression as they mature.

“Establishing dominance is another reason dogs can act aggressively, as is pain or illness and protecting territory or “resource guarding.”

Rhonda said aggressive behaviour can be changed with perseverance.

“It takes patience, time and sometimes professional help to address,” she said.

“The main reason for aggression is usually lack of proper socialisation and training and the longer the aggressive behaviour is practised the longer it will take to correct.

“Training in a controlled environment around other dogs to build confidence is highly recommended.”

By “socialisation” Rhonda doesn’t mean taking a dog to an off-lead beach or park and letting them run around with other dogs.

“‘Socialising’ dogs means building the dogs’ confidence levels with all the stimuli in our world; sounds, animals, people, surfaces, objects, etc,” Rhonda said.

“We should educate dogs to display a neutral response towards other dogs if we have socialised them well enough.”

If your dog is approached by other dogs behaving aggressively Rhonda said you should get your dog away as fast as possible.

“I don’t recommend people take their puppies to off or on-lead areas or doggy day care in that critical phase from eight to 16 weeks,” she said.

“Exposing small dogs to a dangerous environment where the dogs aren’t trained well enough is dangerous.

“You are putting your dog at risk and if they get scared, they might go on to display aggressive behaviour themselves

through fear.

“People need to learn and understand about dogs and their behaviour and take responsibility for their training.”

She says the younger your dog is socialised the better.

“Get professional assistance if needed to understand how to socialise your puppy well in the critical phase and train your dog,” Rhonda advises.

“This takes a good 18 months from eight weeks of age if you are diligent at training daily.

“Build your dog’s confidence levels with other dogs in a controlled environment as soon as possible if they start to show any aggression.”

Call Triple Zero (000) if you’re in immediate danger from an animal. If you are the victim of a dog attack, please report it to Council immediately via: (02) 6670 2400.

Active Kids voucher could go

By Jonathon Howard

MEMBER FOR Tweed Geoff Provest has expressed outrage and slammed the NSW Labor Party for their plans to cancel the popular Active Kids program which has supported thousands of Tweed families.

The Active Kids program was launched in 2018 by the Coalition government to provide families with financial assistance to give their children an opportunity to participate in sporting activities.

Since its inception more than 68,000 vouchers have been created for the Tweed electorate alone.

“Our kids want to be active, they want to enjoy their team sports and yet the Labor Party are set to ruin the lives of our young kids by cancelling their financial support,”

Mr Provest said.

“The first few weeks in their official role has seen the Minns Government starting to pull the plug on important programs. Whats’ next? Regional Seniors Travel and Regional Apprentice cards?”

“At a time when cost of living pressures are mounting on household budgets, the Minns government should be supporting families not adding extra pressures on them.

“This clearly demonstrates the Minns government is not supportive of regional families.”

During question time in parliament recently, the NSW Sports Minister Stephen Kamper was confronted on the matter by the opposition and he expressed budget constraints.

Mr Kamper stressed that the budget has been left in ruins by the previous Coalition government, claiming the Coalition had “defunded” the program by not setting aside future funds.

“This is a group that was throwing money round like confetti but left nothing for the kids,” Mr Kamper said.

He said a review into the program was underway, but there were budget constraints.

“Obviously any funding to struggling families is always appreciated by the community,” he said.

“But what the community doesn’t appreciate … is when a government like your old government mismanages the funds of the state.”

For a consultation call

David Crossan Lawyer

02 6672 1855

Poor little Harry was sadly killed in a dog attack at Tweed Heads recently

Justine Elliot MP

Your Federal Member for Richmond

Tweed Link

Tweed Shire Council wishes to acknowledge the Ngandowal and Minyungbal speaking people of the Bundjalung Country, in particular the Goodjinburra, Tul-gi-gin and Moorung – Moobah clans, as being the traditional owners and custodians of the land and waters within the Tweed Shire boundaries. Council also acknowledges and respects the Tweed Aboriginal community’s right to speak for its Country and to care for its traditional Country in accordance with its lore, customs and traditions.

Last week we each used 186L a day

as at 15 May 2023

Works start to repair major slip at Reserve Creek

There are welcome signs of progress at Reserve Creek Road to repair an extreme slip caused by the 2022 floods.

Local contractor See Civil Pty Ltd has now completed on-site establishment works including the placement of a portable site office, temporary barriers and safety protocols, and heavy machinery is arriving on site.

Early works to set up access ramps and ground investigations also started this week but were hampered by the weather.

Council’s Flood Restoration team provided further approvals to SEE Civil Pty Ltd that works on the vital temporary side road can now commence, marking a critical step in the restoration journey.

SEE Civil has written to residents, advising of possible delays this Thursday and Friday 18 May and 19 May 2023 from 7 am to 5 pm as the contractors investigate an additional section of landslip approximately 200 metres from the main slip site.

The detailed design for the multimillion-dollar project is nearing 100% completion, pending final approval.

Council is working with others to prepare for, mitigate and build resilience to natural disasters while delivering a safe and connected local road network.

Cooperation is key when using the boat ramp at Cudgen Creek – swimmers and boats don’t mix.

Swimmers and boats don’t mix at Cudgen Creek

Even though the weather is cooling down, it doesn’t stop people enjoying the beauty that is Cudgen Creek at Kingscliff.

Swimming, kayaking, fishing, boating – it’s a go-to spot for locals and tourists alike. However, its popularity can also be its downfall – swimmers and boats don’t mix.

Cudgen Creek boat ramp is a shared recreational space for both swimmers and vessel users. Cooperation is key. The ramp is popular with boaties heading out to fish offshore and is also used to launch small vessels for exploring the creek. It also provides a convenient location for swimmers to access the water close to the Kingscliff CBD.

Points to remember (vessel users):

• Vessels users – if you’re the skipper, you’re responsible. This includes the use of cars and trailers on the ramp and navigating through this busy waterway.

• Keep a sharp lookout for swimmers and think ahead – the creek will be busy if you’re returning to the ramp mid-morning on a sunny weekend!

Points to remember (swimmers):

• Boats have right of way on the boat ramp – anyone on the ramp or in the water should immediately move well away if a boat or trailer approaches.

• Ensure children are moved safely away to allow access.

• Boaties have the right to freely use this facility without their safety or that of swimmers being put at risk.

• You cannot expect to sunbathe undisturbed on the ramp – it is a shared space.

To keep all creek users safe we need to cooperate, be courteous and communicate.

Visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/boat-ramps to find all boat ramps in the Tweed.

New $5 afternoon snack menu at Murwillumbah

The Starting Block Café at Murwillumbah has launched a new $5 afternoon snack menu from 2 to 5 pm (available Monday to Wednesday).

Come in for quick grab-and-go snacks to hit the spot, including:

• chicken rice paper roll and juice popper

• coffee and cookie

• soup snack cup

All for just $5! Why not grab something on your way into swimming lessons, or as you leave.

The Starting Block Café is located at the Tweed Regional Aquatic Centre complex at Murwillumbah. Check out the whole menu at trac.tweed.nsw.gov.au/starting-block-cafe

Love your cat? Pounce on this opportunity!

If you love your cat and want to keep it safe from harm, now is the time to submit your expression of interest for one of 36 vouchers to the value of $500.

36 cat owners from the Tweed are eligible to apply for a voucher to purchase a cat haven or other forms of cat enrichment from Catnets but you need to be quick –applications close this Sunday 21 May.

Council has partnered with RSPCA NSW on its Keeping Cats Safe at Home campaign about loving cats, celebrating the people who love their cats and motivating cat lovers to keep their feline companions safe and fulfilled.

The NSW-wide project is funded by a $2.5 million grant from the NSW Environmental Trust.

Complete the expression of interest form online in 5 easy steps before midnight on Sunday 21 May 2023. See terms and conditions and apply online at tweed.nsw.gov.au/cats

Get active and fill out survey to win

There’s still time to complete the Tweed Shire Sport and Active Recreation Survey. But hurry – it closes on Friday 19 May.

This is your chance to help shape the future of sport and rec in the Tweed – and be in the chance to win a prize. Let's make sport and active recreation more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Council manages more than 40 sports fields and centres across the Tweed, covering a range of sports including netball, basketball, tennis, hockey, AFL, rugby league, rugby union, soccer, cricket, swimming, skateboarding and croquet, while our beaches are home to very active surfing and surf lifesaving communities.

We are conducting a survey to better understand the needs and interests of the Tweed community in being physically active and in participating in sport across the Shire.

The survey will help identify how our community would like to be physically active, the sports that are most popular, the facilities that are most needed and the challenges that are being faced. Anyone who takes part in this survey will be in with a chance to win a 6-month family membership to Tweed Regional Aquatic Centres.

To complete the survey and for your chance to win, visit yoursaytweed.com.au/activerecreation

Get the Tweed Link early by email

Be one of the first to see all the latest news from Tweed Shire Council each week.

Subscribers to the Tweed Link receive it by email each week on Wednesday mornings, in addition to it appearing in print in the Tweed Valley Weekly on Thursdays.

But that’s not all – you can also subscribe to Council job alerts, media releases and a range of e-newsletters and Council facility program alerts.

Sign up at tweed.nsw.gov.au/subscribe

A sample of what’s on offer on the new $5 afternoon snack menu at Starting Block Café, TRAC Murwillumbah.

Apply by this Sunday for your chance to get a $500 voucher for a cat haven or cat enrichment products.

The repair site at the major slip on Reserve Creek Road.

On right track to preserve and celebrate our rail and cultural heritage

A commitment to preserving and celebrating the heritage of the Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail (NRRT) has been acknowledged with an award at the prestigious National Trust Heritage Awards.

The Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail took out first place in the Conservation – Landscape category of the Awards at a ceremony in Sydney on Friday 12 May.

The award is the first win for the project and underscores the success of the Tweed section of the Rail Trail which has already attracted thousands of residents and visitors since its opening on 1 March 2023.

The Northern Rivers Rail Trail was one of 17 outstanding projects acknowledged at the National Trust Heritage Awards – an annual celebration of exceptional heritage conservation practices.

NRRT Project Director Iain Lonsdale said the Rail Trail’s win in the Conservation – Landscape category was testament to the commitment and dedication invested in preserving and showcasing the rail, natural and cultural heritage aspects of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail.

section of the Rail Trail – all paying homage to and celebrating the Aboriginal heritage of the trail, villages and region.

Another heritage component is the rail heritage signage strategically placed along the trail, providing informative insights into the region's rail history and its enduring significance.

The restoration of the Tweed section's tunnels and bridges stands as one of the largest heritage components of the Rail Trail. Out of a total of 26 bridges, 16 were meticulously restored for Rail Trail users to traverse, while 10 were bypassed and retained for their inherent heritage value.

The Rail Trail features two tunnels—the Burringbar Range Tunnel, spanning an impressive 524 metres and showcasing the habitat of microbats and glow worms and the Hulls Road Tunnel, measuring 50 metres in length.

The Tweed section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail has received a heritage award for its restoration of several bridges and tunnels as well as highlighting the history of local villages and the Aboriginal heritage of the region.

The Rail Trail's submission for the National Trust Heritage Awards outlined several key heritage components. Notably, it showcased a strong commitment to Aboriginal cultural heritage by integrating a range of Aboriginal stories along the trail as well as two captivating Welcome to Country statements, positioned at each end of the 24km Tweed

A happy milestone for the Tweed Link

Welcome to the 1300th issue of the Tweed Link! We’re also celebrating reaching 4000 online subscribers, so it’s a good time to take a look at how far we’ve come.

Many residents who have moved to the area – or may not have even been born – may not be aware that the Tweed Link has a long history, going right back to 1996. In fact, its story stretches across 2 centuries and 2 millenia!

From latest Council news to development applications, environmental tips to Council strategies that affect you, the Tweed Link has kept the Tweed community informed for nearly 27 years!

Looking back through the many issues over the years, what comes across is the passion Tweed residents have for their community and Council has a responsibility to continue to make the Tweed a great place to live, work and visit. Issue one was published in a printed form on 12 November 1996 and has continued 49 weeks each year since.

The Tweed Link has been recognised as a leader in local government communications, winning a number of awards. These include an RH Dougherty Award from Local Government Association of NSW for Reporting to your Community in 2010 and a national award from Government Communications Australia in 2011 (Best Publication). While 27 years is a long time given the massive changes in communications over that time (remember the fax, anyone?), survey results tell us that residents are still looking to the Tweed Link for Council information.

Keeping up with the changing times, distribution has gone from letterbox to in-box, however the Tweed Link is still available and enjoyed by many in a printed form in the Tweed Valley Weekly.

Join the 4000+ subscribers at tweed.nsw.gov.au/subscribe so you never miss an issue. While you’re there you can also subscribe to e-newsletters, job alerts and program news.

The Tweed may have changed a lot in 27 years but the Tweed Link has been a constant, keeping you informed along the way.

Thank you to the Tweed community for embracing the Tweed Link and we hope you enjoy reading it for many years to come.

We hope you enjoy this look back at what was making news in Australia and the Tweed in 1996 when the first Tweed Link hit the streets.

Development proposal for public comment

Way back when ... 1996

• John Howard begins his 11 year stint as PM – the second longest in Australian history.

• Bob Carr is NSW Premier.

• Pauline Hanson’s ‘please explain’ interview airs on 60 Minutes.

• The Wiggles’ 6th album Wake up Jeff is released.

• The Port Arthur massacre marks a sad day for Australia and the beginnings of gun reform.

• Ivan Milat is found guilty of 7 backpacker murders.

• The top 10 music singles in Australia are Macarena (Los del Rio), Killing Me Softly (Fugees), Because You Love Me (Celine Dion), How Bizarre (OMC), Wannabe (Spice Girls), One of Us (Joan Osborne), Missing (Everything But the Girl), Return of the Mack (Mark Morrison), What’s Love Got to Do with It (Warren G) and You’re Makin’ Me High (Toni Braxton).

• The President of the United States Bill Clinton begins a 5-day visit to Australia.

• Alan Bond pleads guilty to dishonesty offences.

• After a court battle, the first series of Friends screens on the Seven Network, almost 2 years after it premiered in the United States.

• Minor premiers the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles defeat the St. George Dragons 20–8 to win the 89th NSWRL/ARL premiership.

• The Fitzroy Lions (16 . 11 . 107) defeat the Fremantle Dockers (10 . 16 . 76).

• Saintly wins the Melbourne Cup giving Bart Cummings his 10th win as a trainer.

• Tennis player Ashleigh Barty is born on 24 April. What was happening in the Tweed

The first Tweed link is published on 12 November 1996.

In 1996, the population of the Tweed Shire was 66,528, based on where people were on Census night in 1996. By comparison, the population in the 2021 census was 98,125. Highlights of what was happening in November and December 1996 through the Tweed Link ...

• Council consults with the community on the naming of Minjungbal Drive at Tweed Heads.

The following development application has been received by Tweed Shire Council and may be viewed on Council’s DA Tracking site located at datracker.tweed.nsw.gov.au for a period of 28 days from Wednesday 17 May to Wednesday 14 June 2023.

The proposal is not designated development and Tweed Shire Council is the consent authority.

Applicant Location Proposal Application no. Bmack Project Management Services Pty Ltd Lot 301 DP 1125090; Overall Drive, Pottsville Extension of existing men’s shed DA23/0180

Any person may, during the periods specified above, make a submission in writing to Council in relation to the development application. Where a submission is in the form of an objection, then the grounds of objection are required to be specified. It should also be noted that Council has adopted a policy whereby, on request, any submission including identifying particulars will be made public. Council will give consideration to the ‘Public Interest’ and requests for confidentiality by submitters in determining access to submission letters. However, the provisions of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 – GIPA may result in confidential submissions being released to an applicant.

Please note: Requirements regarding Disclosure of Political Gifts and Donations

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

The revitalisation of the State heritage-listed Murwillumbah Railway Station also played a crucial role in securing the award. Future heritage works at the Murwillumbah Railway Station include restoration of heritage items including the Barracks building, the water tank, water pump, turntable, crane and banana shed.

The 24km Tweed section is the first stage of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail which will eventually stretch 132 km from Murwillumbah to Casino in Northern NSW.

Read more at tweed.nsw.gov.au/latest-news

• Murwillumbah Community Centre opens in Knox Park.

• Council receives a development application for ‘Kings Beach’ on 178 hectares of land stretching 3 km along the Tweed Coast.

• The Tweed’s split bin recycling system delivered almost 4000 tonnes of recyclables after 18 months of operation.

• Banora Point tops Council’s building approval statistics, with 215 applications valued at more than $6 million. Terranora and Bilambil Heights were also growing strongly.

• A network of significant remnant vegetation on 500 hectares between Pottsville and Hastings Point containing koala habitat, littoral rainforest and wetlands comes under Council control.

• Australia’s richest portrait prize The Doug Moran Portrait Prize was on display at the Tweed River Regional Art Gallery, located in Tumbulgum Road, Murwillumbah. ... and in early 1997

• Tweed Shire 2000+ Strategic Plan comes into operation.

• The headline posed the question ‘Kingscliff: Is it the next Noosa?’. New outdoor awnings were being constructed over outdoor dining at two cafés as part of the Main Street program.

• Construction of the Kingscliff bypass.

• A controversial proposal to build a 22-storey high rise at the old Markwells site in Tweed Heads is later downsized but the revised proposal was rejected by Council and then the State Government.

• Council investigates the expansion of the Kingscliff Sewage Treatment Plant to cater for the future development of South Kingscliff “... expected to house up to 25,000 people”.

• Tweed Shire Council celebrates it 50th birthday following the amalgamation of the Municipality of Murwillumbah and Shire of Tweed in 1947.

• The NSW Land and Environment Court upholds a Council decision to refuse an Anglican school on agricultural land.

• Council proposes to lift the general rate by 13.1 per cent.

• Work to seal Clothiers Creek Road between the Tweed Coast and Mruwillumbah is completed.

• The administrator of Seagulls Rugby Leagues Club agrees to sell the Piggabeen Sports Complex and surrounding land to Council.

• The Tweed’s first skatepark opened in Knox Park, Murwillumbah.

The Tweed Link has been a constant feature for the Tweed community over the last 27 years.

Free bush regeneration workshop for Tweed residents

A free workshop for residents who want to learn practical bush regeneration skills will be held in Murwillumbah on Wednesday 31 May from 9 am to 12:30 pm.

The workshop will focus on controlling weeds, ecological restoration and flora and fauna considerations. Weeds are a big threat to the Tweed’s unique environment and can have serious economic and social impacts. Bush regeneration involves restoring native bushland to create healthy and more resilient ecosystems.

At the workshop, participants will learn about:

• controlling weeds

• ecological restoration

• flora and fauna considerations

• ecological restoration and disturbance, succession and resilience

Did you know there are Lyrebirds in the Tweed?

It’s international Endangered Species Day on Friday 19 May and one of the Tweed’s rarest birds is in the spotlight – the Albert’s Lyrebird.

Council kicked off its Lowland Lyrebird Links project in 2019 to help conserve the species and increase the extent, condition and connectivity of Albert's Lyrebird habitat.

Albert’s Lyrebird is a mostly ground-dwelling bird that can only be found within a small area of far south-eastern Queensland and north-eastern NSW.

Council is asking the community to listen for the call of the Albert’s Lyrebird this May and June as part of its 8-year project to protect and map where the lyrebirds are in the Tweed.

By providing citizen science data you can help with this local threatened species’ survival.

Albert’s Lyrebirds are much more often heard than seen. Their calls can be heard echoing through the gullies of the last remaining pockets of lowland rainforest in the Tweed. You will need to get up early for their dawn chorus on a chilly winter morning, but it’s well worth it.

Conserving these rare birds is one of the ways Council is working to protect the Tweed’s internationally significant environment for future generations.

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

DA22/0704 – Alterations and additions including swimming pool

Lot 53 DP 253699, No. 34 Durigan Place, Banora Point

DA22/0834 – Two storey dwelling with attached garage and above-ground swimming pool

Lot 156 DP 852450, No. 15 Sierra Vista Boulevard, Bilambil Heights

DA22/0813 – Dwelling, attached garage and carport

Lot 9 DP 1273771, No. 2 Kanooka Crescent, Bogangar

DA21/0710 – Alterations and additions to existing child care centres

Lot 172 DP 1208112, Lot 171 DP 1208112, No. 478 Casuarina Way, Casuarina

DA23/0162 – Alterations and additions to an existing dwelling

Lot 2 DP 1208138, No. 6 Anne Street, Chinderah

DA22/0677 – Retaining wall

Lot 3 DP 617764, No. 110 Richards Deviation, Dunbible

DA22/0796 – Two storey dwelling with attached garage, inground swimming pool, carport and 1.8 metre high fence within the front building line

Lot 198 DP 1232786, No. 13 Edgewater Lane, Kingscliff

DA22/0746 – Two storey dwelling with attached garage, retaining walls and inground swimming pool

Lot 7 NPP 286750, No. 8 Black Myrtle Court, Terranora

DA21/0972 – Secondary dwelling and use of existing shed

Lot 88 DP 1241079, No. 64 Lorikeet Drive, Tweed

Heads South

DA22/0709 – Alterations and additions to existing dwelling including first storey addition in-ground swimming pool and carport within the front building line

Lot 23 DP 1017105, No. 6 Bailey Street, Tweed Heads West

Refused

DA22/0379 – Alterations and additions to existing attached dual occupancy including new upper floor comprising of bedrooms, bathrooms and activity room

Lot 1 SP 32600, Unit 1/No. 26 Gibson Street, Kingscliff

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 at datracker.tweed.nsw.gov.au

This project has been funded by the NSW Government’s NSW Environmental Trust Saving Our Species Contestable Grants program.

Join the Listening for Lyrebirds project on the iNaturalist website or app to record your observations inaturalist.org/projects/listening-for-lyrebirds-project-page More information on the project, how to listen for Lyrebirds, and examples of their calls can be found at tweed.nsw.gov.au/alberts-lyrebird

• identifying invasive weeds

• practical opportunities to assess weeds on site.

Landholders with high conservation value habitat on their land, especially those with Conservation Agreements, are encouraged to attend.

This workshop is part of Council’s commitment to working together with the community to reduce our impact on the natural environment.

The workshop is a collaborative effort between Tweed Shire Council and Tweed Landcare Inc..

Council is funding the workshop, which is part of the Landcare-managed Filling the Biodiversity Gaps project assisted by the NSW Government through its Environmental Trust.

Bookings are essential. Find out more and book online at bush-regeneration-workshop.eventbrite.com.au

Swimming pool and spa checks for homeowners

Council is calling on Tweed homeowners with swimming pools or spas to check their sewer and stormwater connections.

Water and Wastewater Business and Assets manager Anthony Burnham said many people didn’t realise backwash from sand filters was wastewater and could harm our natural environment.

“The problem is when backwash illegally discharges to stormwater pipes – our stormwater system is designed to transport rainwater to waterways so any backwash that enters them will flow to our waterways and could cause harm,” Mr Burnham said.

“If you own a sand filter, make sure that your backwash discharges to your sewer pipes, not your stormwater pipes.

“Also, only use the valves that direct your backwash to your sewer pipes when you need to backwash. And if you have a cartridge filter, wash the cartridge on your lawn.”

Mr Burnham added stormwater pipes were important for pools and spas, but only when it rains.

“Ensure any overflows from your pool or spa are directed to your stormwater pipes, not your sewer pipes,” he said.

“If overflows are directed to your sewer pipes, those pipes could get overloaded when it rains and you could end up with a nasty sewage overflow at your home.

“Doing these things will help minimise the impact of your pool or spa on our natural environment.”

Visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/swimming-pools-spas for more pool and spa owning tips.

Council meeting agenda – Thursday 18 May 2023

The Council meeting agenda for Thursday 18 May 2023 is available at tweed.nsw.gov.au/council-meetings . The meeting will be held at the Council Chambers, Murwillumbah Civic & Cultural Centre, Tumbulgum Road, Murwillumbah commencing at 3:30 pm.

Agenda

Reports for consideration

Confirmation of minutes

5.1 Confirmation of minutes of the Ordinary Council meetings held Thursday 20 April 2023 and Thursday 4 May 2023

Schedule of outstanding resolutions

8.1 Schedule of outstanding resolutions at 4 May 2023

Mayoral minute

9.1 Mayoral Minute for April 2023

Receipt of petitions

10.1 Receipt of Petitions as at 8 May 2023

Orders of the day

11.1 CoastSnap

11.2 Waterways Erosion

11.3 Reusable Nappy Rebate Scheme

11.4 Safe Crossing to Murwillumbah Railway Station and Increased Bike Stands

11.5 Cudgen Creek Masterplan

11.6 Legacy Developments

Reports from the Director Sustainable Communities and Environment

17.1 Licensing Jack Evans Boat Harbour Events – return visit of Skyline Ferris Wheel

17.2 Richmond Tweed Regional Library Deed of Agreement 2023 – 2027

Reports from the Director Engineering

18.1 Application for Variation of Restriction on Use –1 Sunfish Lane, Kingscliff (Lot 12 in DP1252999)

18.2 Request for Owner's Consent – Turnock St Extension

18.3 Request for Owner's Consent – Altona Road and Crescent Street Realignment

18.4 Amendments to Car Parking Controls in Tweed Development Control Plan

18.5 Dam Safety Management System – Internal Review for 2022

18.6 Dulguigan Road Traffic Survey Report – 1st Quarter 2023

Reports from the Director Corporate Services

19.1 Corporate Quarterly Performance Report as at 31 March 2023

19.2 Quarterly Budget Review – March 2023

19.3 Monthly Investment Report for Period ending 30 April 2023

Delegates reports

Reports from sub-committees/working groups

21.1 Minutes of the Tweed Regional Gallery Advisory Committee Meeting held Wednesday 8 March 2023

Reports from the Director Sustainable Communities and Environment in committee

29.1 Tweed Holiday Parks – Fees and Charges 2024/2025

Reports from the Director Engineering In Committee

30.1 Acquisition of land for sewerage purposes, part Lot 9 in DP601161 (25 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah)

30.2 Acquisition of land for road widening at Tweed Coast Road, Cudgen (part Lot 3 in DP828298 and part Lot 6 in DP727425)

30.3 Floodplain Management Advisory Committee – change of community membership

30.4 Bulk Water Supply Arrangements Tweed Shire Council and City of Gold Coast – Mini-Link

The agenda for this 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 this meeting will be available as soon as practical following the meeting and are unconfirmed until they are formally adopted at the next Council meeting.

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

Local bush regeneration expert Russell Schubring doing primary control of lantana at a site at Numinbah.

A rare sight! An Albert’s Lyrebird captured on camera recently in south-east Queensland. Credit: Marama Hopkins.

Glam yourself up for a night of fun, fashion

Come dressed to impress in your favourite threads for the latest Museum Up Late event inspired by the Tweed Regional Museum’s exciting exhibition, Social Fabric Dress in your favourite fashion piece – whether it be chic, classic, grunge or your very own unique creation – and enjoy a free night of fun, fashion, performances and fabulous people on Saturday 27 May at the GLAM: Red Carpet Party at the Museum

On the night, get a glam-up at the Salon, the Museum’s in-house hair and make-up haus, before you get snapped by the paparazzi team from The Wild Booth Co as you strut your stuff down the red carpet. The Museum’s media experts will ensure you shine on camera.

Experience dazzling performances by the outrageous Milena Missi of Queens From Kingscliff – and speak with local fashion designers such as Jason King from JPK Artistry, Kristelle English of Hastings Handmade and Elke Gill who will be modelling their wares.

Make sure to immerse yourself in the playful art of yarn bombing by graffitiing our iconic Robey & Co steam engine with colourful threads. Then, call upon your inner designer and create your own bling range of interesting materials at our Wearable Art Station.

Kids can pick up their own doll-shaped Social Fabric

Have your say

Add your voice to decision making in the Tweed

Public notice – proposed renaming of parks

Proposed renaming of Bray Park Reserve

An application was received requesting to rename ‘Bray Park Reserve’ and Off Leash Dog Park – to ‘Easton Park’ or ‘Clive Easton Park’.

Visit yoursaytweed.com.au/bray-park-reserve for more details.

Proposed renaming of Old Barney’s Point Bridge Park

An application was received requesting to rename Old Barney's Point Bridge Park to ’Hinton’s Corner Park’: Visit yoursaytweed.com.au/old-barneys-point-bridge-park for more details.

Proposed naming of viewing platform and parkland, Cabarita

An application was received requesting to name the viewing platform and parkland between the Cabarita Beach Hotel and Beach at Pandanus Parade, Cabarita Beach to ‘David Rae Place’. Visit yoursaytweed.com.au/david-rae-place for more details.

Have your say

You can make a submission:

• Online: yoursaytweed.com.au

• By mail: General Manager, Tweed Shire Council, PO Box 816, Murwillumbah, 2484

• By email: tsc@tweed.nsw.gov.au

Submissions in relation to all three proposed park renamings close at 5 pm on the 14 June 2023.

Enquiries: Joanna Hogg, Team Leader Recreation Operations, Parks and Active Communities

Phone: 02 6670 2400

Email: tsc@tweed.nsw.gov.au

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

Help us make decisions with you Register at yoursaytweed.com.au

Current vacancies

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

WATER WEEK 6 Check when your water meter is read at tweed.nsw.gov.au/meter-reading

exhibition guide and journey through the show with their museum mate Storm. After gathering inspiration, they can visit the Dressing Room play space and style their own paper doll with cut-out clothes – and don't forget they will need to give them a hairstyle and a face!

We also recommend trying on clothes and accessories in the Dressing Room, dance to tunes by our resident DJ – or take some well-deserved time to relax in the courtyard – all the while enjoying some light nibbles and drinks that will be available for purchase courtesy of the team from The Gin Experience.

GLAM: Red Carpet Party at the Museum will take place on Saturday 27 May from 4 to 7:30 pm.

For more information or to book your free ticket, visit museum.tweed.nsw.gov.au/events-workshops-activities This is a free, all ages event.

Dress-ups never looked so much fun! Try on some of the clothes on display as part of the Social Fabric exhibition during the GLAM: Red Carpet Party. Credit: Chris Radman.

Notification of integrated development application

Development Application no. DA23/0187

A development application has been lodged by Evolve Planning Services Pty Ltd seeking development consent for construction of a new rock revetment wall and boat launching ramp and associated works at Lot 4 DP 1150940; No. 73 Tweed Valley Way and the Tweed River, South Murwillumbah. Tweed Shire Council is the consent authority for the application. The proposed development constitutes ‘Integrated Development’ pursuant to Section 4.46(1) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979. The following approvals are required in this regard:

Provision Approval Authority

Section 205 of the Fisheries Management Act

Sections 89, 90 & 91 of the Water Management Act 2000

Permit to cut remove damage or destroy marine vegetation on public water land or an aquaculture lease on the foreshore of any such land or lease

Water use approval, water management work approval or activity approval under Part 3 of Chapter 3

Development Application no. DA23/0159

Department of Primary Industries (Fisheries)

Department of Planning & Environment - Water

A development application has been lodged by Evolve Planning Services Pty Ltd seeking development consent for revetment wall, boat ramp and mooring posts at Lot 3 DP 1150940; No. 71 Tweed Valley Way and the Tweed River, South Murwillumbah . Tweed Shire Council is the consent authority for the application.

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

Provision Approval Authority

Section 205 of the Fisheries Management Act

Sections 89, 90 & 91 of the Water Management Act 2000

Permit to cut remove damage or destroy marine vegetation on public water land or an aquaculture lease on the foreshore of any such land or lease

Water use approval, water management work approval or activity approval under Part 3 of Chapter 3

Department of Primary Industries

Department of Planning and Environment - Water

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

The documents will be available for a period of 28 days from Wednesday 17 May to Wednesday 14 June 2023.

Notification of designated/integrated development proposal

Development Application no. DA23/0113

A development application has been lodged by A1 Skips seeking development consent for waste transfer station upgrade (NRPP) at Lot 1 DP 1185359; No. 16 Naru Street, Chinderah. Northern Regional Planning Panel (NRPP) is the consent authority for the application.

The proposed development constitutes ’Designated Development’ pursuant to Section 4.10 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (as amended) and Clause 7(1) and Schedule 3 of the accompanying Regulation. The proposed development also constitutes ’Integrated Development” pursuant to Section 91(1) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979. The following approvals are required in this regard:

Provision Approval Authority

Sections 43(A), 47 And 55 of the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997

Sections 43(B), 48 And 55 of the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997

Sections 43(D), 48 And 55 of the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997

Environment protection licence to authorise carrying out of scheduled development works at any premises

Environment protection licence to authorise carrying out of scheduled activities at any premises

Environment protection licenses to control carrying out of non-scheduled activities for the purposes of regulating water pollution resulting from the activity

Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (Environment Protection Authority NSW)

Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (Environment Protection Authority NSW)

Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (Environment Protection Authority NSW)

The development application and the documents accompanying it, including the relevant environmental impact statement may be viewed on Council’s DA Tracking site located at datracker.tweed.nsw.gov.au for a period of 28 days from Wednesday 26 April to Wednesday 24 May 2023.

Any person may, during the above period, make a written submission to the General Manager of Council. Any person may, during the above period, make a written submission to the General Manager of Council. It should also be noted that Council has adopted a policy whereby, on request, any submission including identifying particulars will be made public. Council will give consideration to the ’Public Interest’ and requests for confidentiality by submitters in determining access to submission letters. However, the provisions of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 – GIPA may result in confidential submissions being released to an applicant. Any submission objecting to the proposed development must state the ground upon which such objection is made. Further, any person who makes a submission by way of objection and who is dissatisfied with Council’s determination in relation to the matter may appeal to the Land and Environment Court in accordance with Section 8.8 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (as amended). If a Commission of Inquiry is held, the Minister’s determination of the application is final and not subject to appeal.

Please note: Requirements regarding Disclosure of Political Gifts and Donations

A disclosure is required to be made in a statement accompanying the relevant development or planning application by a person who makes the application. In addition, a person who makes a written submission either objecting to or supporting a relevant development or planning application must also make a disclosure if the person has made a reportable political donation.

Further information regarding Donations and Gift Disclosure are available at tweed.nsw.gov.au/development-applications

Rail Trail crossing

By Jonathon Howard

TWEED SHIRE Councillors are set to discuss whether a new pedestrian crossing should be installed to the Murwillumbah Railway Station to ensure safe crossing of the road by the many tourists flocking to the Northern Rivers Rail Trail.

A motion has been raised by Deputy Mayor Meredith Dennis, who said she has listened to the concerns of cyclists and walkers and agrees the crossing of Tweed Valley Way is “dangerous to pedestrians”.

However, traffic congestion could increase, and the cost of the crossing could blow out to as much as $35,000 — all after much of the funding for the Rail Trail has been exhausted.

The second part of the motion is to increase the number of bicycle stands in Murwillumbah and surrounds to accommodate where bikes are stored.

“Northern Rivers Rail Trail (NRRT) and Roads and Stormwater Unit (RSU) officers are aware of the increased pedestrian movements across Tweed Valley Way to access the NRRT,” the motion reads.

“Investigations have commenced to install a raised pedestrian crossing across the two-lane section of Tweed Valley Way at the Prospero Street intersection.

“If shown to be practical, the design will be

reported to Local Traffic Committee for endorsement.”

Council’s report said RSU officers will also conduct observations of pedestrian desire lines and usage of the existing pedestrian refuges on the three legs of the Tweed Valley Way-Alma Street roundabout.

“It is unlikely that a pedestrian crossing would be supported in this location due to the four lanes and high traffic volumes,” the report reads.

“Upgrades to the existing median in Alma Street to enhance this crossing point, along with improved landscaping, are already in planning.” The report said requests for bicycle stands/ racks in Murwillumbah, as well as Burringbar, Mooball and Crabbes Creek have also been received by RSU following the NRRT opening.

“Officers will investigate options for installing more bike racks in locations with good visibility for security, and where their use will not obstruct the footpath or adjacent businesses,” the report said.

“Consultation with those business owners may be necessary.”

The report stated a raised pedestrian crossing at Prospero Street would cost around $35,000.

“The cost of bike racks vary depending on scale and fixings,” the report reads.

The matter is up for debate and a vote motion before councillors on Thursday, May 18.

TWEED SKIN CANCER CLINIC 30 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

Excellence in Skin Cancer and Melanoma Diagnosis and Treatment

EARLY DETECTION MAY SAVE LIVES

The Tweed Skin Cancer Clinic has been serving the Tweed Valley and wider regions for more than 30 years. We have a team of very experienced Doctors, Paramedics and Nurse, and very friendly reception staff who are always up for a chat.

Recently our medical staff attended the International Melanoma Conference in Brisbane. World renowned Australian Specialist Oncologists and Surgeons presented exciting new treatment trial results showing greatly improved survival rates for advanced melanoma, as well as new standards in the treatment of melanomas. Our Clinic staff are excited to bring this new knowledge to our patients in the effort to overcome skin cancer and melanoma.

Council will consider a new crossing on Tweed Valley Way near Prospero Street this week

Fraud case at Tweed

By Jonathon Howard

A SYDNEY businessman appeared in Tweed Heads Local Court on Wednesday, May 10, after being extradited from Queensland on charges of defrauding “mum and dad” investors.

Police allege that 40-year-old foreign currency trader Vincenzo Vocisano took around $30 million from investors to invest in foreign exchange but allegedly spent most of it gambling.

Camden (Sydney) Police Area Command detectives established Strike Force Wooroonga after receiving a report in July last year that a local businessman had allegedly misappropriated his clients’ investments.

Following extensive inquiries, Queensland Police’s Coomera CIB detectives arrested a 40-year-old man at Hope Island on the Gold Coast on Monday, May 8, with a NSW Police arrest warrant.

When the man appeared in the Southport Watchhouse on Tuesday, May 9, NSW Police

detectives successfully applied for the man’s extradition.

The man was refused bail and appeared in Tweed Heads Local Court charged with dishonestly obtaining financial advantage etc by deception.

Crime Manager, Detective Chief Inspector Paul Albury, said they will be alleging in court the man targeted ‘mum and dad-type’ investors as well as other business owners.

“This arrest is the result of almost a year’s persistence and hard work by the Camden PAC detectives, assisted by our colleagues in the Queensland Police Service,“ Det Ch Insp Albury said.

“We will be alleging in court that this man targeted ‘mum and dad-type’ investors as well as other business owners.

“We encourage anyone who believes they have been the victim of a crime such as this to contact police,“ he said.

Vincenzo Vocisano (pictured inset in 2010) was denied bail in Tweed Heads Court last week

New ambulance station

By Jonathon Howard

KINGSCLIFF IS a step closer to having a new state-of-the-art ambulance station after NSW Health Infrastructure announced the contractor who will build the station.

The station will be co-located at the site of the new Tweed Valley Hospital, replacing the Marine Parade ambulance station which has served the community for 65 years.

The new two-level ambulance station will feature internal parking for up to eight vehicles, including an internal wash bay, staff parking, administration and office areas, gym, relief accommodation and logistics and storage areas.

Health Infrastructure said the construction of the Tweed Valley Hospital is progressing well, with the main hospital building nearing completion. Landscaping is also underway across the campus and the final finishes will soon be applied to the internal roads.

Construction of the new ambulance station is expected to be completed in early 2024.

NSW Health Infrastructure Executive Director Rural and Regional, Amanda Bock, said

the construction contract was awarded to FK Gardner & Sons (FKG) following a competitive tender process.

“This announcement reinforces the NSW Government’s commitment to investing in rural and regional health infrastructure so local communities such as Kingscliff have better health outcomes now and into the future,” Ms Bock said.

NSW Ambulance Commissioner Dr Dominic Morgan said Kingscliff’s new ambulance station will provide the most up-to-date facilities and equipment to support local paramedics and meet the demand for mobile emergency care in the local area.

“It’s a win for our local paramedics and the growing Tweed Valley community,” Dr Morgan said.

The Kingscliff Ambulance Station is part of the $232 million Rural Ambulance Infrastructure Reconfiguration (RAIR) program, which is the single largest investment in regional NSW Ambulance’s 127-year history, with 54 new or upgraded ambulance stations being delivered.

UNDER CONSTRUCTION: An artist's impression of the new Kingscliff Ambulance Station

OId Bastards give

By Jonathon Howard

THE TWIN Towns branch of the Australasian Order of Old Bastards (AOOB) has stepped up to support Wedgetail Retreat this month.

Wedgetail is an award-winning respite centre for terminally ill patients in the Tweed Valley run by Tweed Palliative Support.

Despite the unusual name, the AOOB is a registered charity that has been active since 1968 and has always had a focus on fundraising for worthy causes.

Whilst the group have not made many appearances in the media of late, they are eager to inform the community of their activities and are inviting new members to join.

The AOOB members are proud supporters of Wedgetail Retreat and have kindly donated more than $2,000 to assist in their important

work.

“While the group perhaps doesn’t take itself as seriously as some others, with a greater emphasis on the fun and friendship among members than formalities, the concern for the community is unquestionable,” the group said in a joint statement to The Weekly.

“Over $8 million has been raised in support of a range of charities across Australia, often with a strong local focus.”

The Old Bastards, as they’re affectionately known, meet on the first Friday of each month at the South Tweed Sports Club from 2pm.

They also host regular bus trips to support their fundraising initiatives.

Members are always eager to invite new residents to join the club with life membership only $20.

For further details please visit: aoob.com.au

The Order of Old Bastards has been busy in the background

Tweed Palliative Support president Meredith Dennis receiving a cheque in support of Wedgetail

Celebrating volunteers

By Jo Kennett

IT’S NATIONAL Volunteers Week this week and a time to celebrate the millions of volunteers around the nation selflessly donating their time to be of service to others in their community.

Nicole Lockie has been a NSW Marine Rescue Point Danger volunteer for 28 years and says it is a fulfilling way to give something back to the community.

Nicole originally joined when she moved to the area to meet people and become a part of the community.

“I scuba dive and got told about Air Sea Rescue so I joined that in 1995,” she said.

“It started out with a couple of pilots that ran out of Bernie’s boat shed on the Tweed River doing search and rescue.

“They could take a plane up to do a search and that’s how Marine Rescue Point Danger started.

“Later it turned into Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) around 1999 which was the same thing with the radio room.”

When Nicole joined they had one rescue boat and one Inflatable Rescue Boat (IRB).

“I joined as crew and I did my commercial coxswains ticket around 1998 and became a skipper about 2000,” Nicole told The Weekly.

“I was one of the first female coxswains in NSW and also one in Queensland because back then Point Danger was part of both units.

“I got to meet local people but also I wanted to learn more about boats and I loved being out on the water.

“I met my fiancé when I joined; he was in Air Sea Rescue as well, (he tragically passed away before they could marry) so you do meet nice people like that.”

Nicole also volunteers at Marine Rescue Currumbin and said she enjoys putting something back into the community in a field that she likes.

“It can definitely be an adrenaline rush at times. A lot of it is seeing people’s faces when you can help them and how grateful they are, she said.

“Depending on the situation, if you find someone at night, they can be very stressed and they don’t know if they are going to make it back in.

“It’s also passing on knowledge to future volunteers so that’s very satisfying watching people grow and their skills development.

“I’ve also become a coxswain on the jet skis, so I learnt to use the skis for rescues as well and now help train others.”

Nicole said that while Marine Rescue is still predominantly male, they are always looking for more females to join.

“But it doesn’t matter if you are male or female, everyone is treated the same,” she said.

“I love learning new things, training others, putting something back into the community, and it’s just beautiful to be out on the water.”

Car thefts are out of control

By Jo Kennett

A SPATE of car thefts across the Tweed Shire is driving locals up the wall and has prompted Tweed Police to join a state-wide campaign to help address the issue.

NSW Police are running a campaign to try to deter home and car break-ins, as the current spate of car thefts in the Tweed Shire continues unabated.

A 9pm routine involves four actions recommended before you go to bed, as the key time for break and enters and car thefts is from midnight to 3am.

Eight out of every 10 homes that are broken into are entered by unlocked doors or windows.

To prevent break-ins, at 9pm each night, if you haven’t already gone to bed, you should remove any valuables from your car.

Next you should lock up your car and home, ensuring you don’t leave car keys out anywhere they can easily be taken.

If you have a CCTV camera you should check it is working.

The final task before going to bed is to switch on downstairs alarms at night (if possible).

Any suspicious activity should be reported immediately to police on 13 14 44.

A CCTV screenshot of a person at Kingscliff South trying to break into cars on May 12

Nicole Lockie has been volunteering for Marine Rescue Point Danger for 28 years

Burringbar petition lodged

By Jonathon Howard

A GROWING number of Burringbar residents are fed up with speeding vehicles and the danger they pose to pedestrians, they have signed a petition and are calling for action now.

The petition contains 45 signatories so far, of which Tweed Shire Council says 44 are valid, with one being invalid due to a lack of address details.

The petition was received on April 26 this year and is titled “Pedestrian safety and speeding vehicles in Burringbar”.

“We the residents of Tweed Valley Way, Cudgera Creek Road, Howards Road and Wallaroo Drive in Burringbar are petitioning Council and Transport for NSW to assess the increased traffic conditions and exceedance of safe vehicle speeds on these roadways,” the petition reads.

The demand for action on dangerous

roads comes as congestion, increasing visitors and housing demand are leading to daily interactions with vehicles, and some residents fear a major accident is destined to happen.

Locals are now calling for speed limit reductions, increased signage and greater police presence to weed out speeding drivers and remind motorists that bad driving will not be tolerated.

“We would like to see the speed limit on Tweed Valley Way at the village boundary reduced to 50km and the speed limit beyond the village residential area signposted at a reduced limit for the extent of Howards Road and Cudgera Creek Road; where there is currently no speed limit applied,” the petition reads.

“There are many blind corners on these narrow rural roads, limited or non-existent road verges and often steep gullies and precipitous drop-offs at the road edge.

Burringbar roads are so dangerous, residents fear an accident is waiting to happen

“With many vehicles — be they delivery trucks, vans, or people travelling to/from work, travelling at speed — we are fearful of our safety and that of our children who join us riding bikes, horses and walking their dogs along these roads.”

The petition is expected to be discussed and voted upon by Tweed Shire Councillors during their monthly meeting on Thursday, May 18.

Local pharmacy UTI ready

By Jonathon Howard

MAPP & HESSION Pharmacy is one of only 100 pharmacies in NSW to provide treatment of urinary tract infections (UTIs) without having to visit a doctor.

Mapp & Hession Pharmacy part-owner Paul Hession said it was major win for local women and the community, as it will help ease queues in local medical practices and allow for faster treatment.

“You may have seen the announcement by the NSW Health Minister that the UTI trial in pharmacy commences on Monday,

May 15,” Mr Hession said.

“We are one of only 100 pharmacies in NSW to have been selected for the first phase of this trial.

“We have performed all the necessary training and are ready to go.”

Mr Hession said the trial means that after a consultation with a pharmacist, if a woman aged 18 to 65 is experiencing symptoms of a UTI, the pharmacist can provide antibiotic treatment.

“This is without a visit to a GP or hospital ED,” he said.

“It’s a game-changer for women’s health

and we are very proud to be offering this service to the women of Murwillumbah.”

NSW Health Minister Ryan Park said the NSW Government is “committed to improving access to medicines”. More community pharmacies across NSW will be included in the trial after the middle of the year, which may see more than 5,000 women provided care for UTIs in the pharmacy setting.

“We want to ensure this is done so safely — and we are determined to get it right,” Mr Park said.

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Rental crisis update

TWEED RESIDENTS have responded in support of a proposal for Tweed Shire Council to impose a restriction of 60 days for short-term holiday lets.

The Weekly reported in last week’s edition (May 11, page 5), that Mayor Chris Cherry would write to the minister requesting a cap on short-term holiday letting from the current 365 days to 60 days.

The move is hoped to help alleviate the Tweed rental crisis and keep locals in place.

“Hooray, at last someone has made a sensible solution to the problem, it is impossible to find out if a property is on the short-term register,” wrote Pam Petersen at Tweed Heads. “Council says it’s not them and when they give you a phone number to call, they pass the buck to someone else.

“This should be a council issue and they need to control them better; I say bring on tighter controls to 60 days, about time, give some residents living next to them some peace.”

Another resident, who preferred not to be named, said shortterm lets are a “blight on residential streets” and welcomed the mayor’s move.

“The people who are running the short-term holiday lets are gaining money at the expense of the other residents of the street,” the resident wrote to The Weekly.

“The loss of privacy and friendliness of the other residents is profound.

“Security is non-existent as these people are complete unknowns.

“Sixty days is still too long and short-term holiday lets should be limited to where the holiday hub is not residential streets.” As previously reported, Mayor Cherry said whilst not the only issue around rental availability — “it is a massive contributing factor to the rental market.”

“People are drawn to the profits that can be produced through short-term holiday letting websites,” she said.

“However, by limiting the number of days that short-term letting is allowable in the Tweed Shire, then you could make long-term rentals a much more attractive concept.”

The matter is expected to be raised with Tweed Shire Councillors in the coming weeks. The red dots are Airbnbs in the Tweed Shire

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Grant to Park Active

By Jonathon Howard

PARK ACTIVE has recently received well-deserved recognition with a $500 Active Ageing Grant from Health Promotion Northern NSW.

Park Active and the Best Program Balance Course were started by Susi Thomas three years ago to assist our Tweed seniors to stay active, independent and on their feet.

The programs also provide falls prevention and activity sessions, which now operate in both Murwillumbah and Tweed Heads.

“I was absolutely thrilled when I found out that Park Active and the Best Program Balance Course had received this assistance and recognition,” Ms Thomas said.

Park Active is held in the Cunningham Street Netball Courts at Tweed Heads South on Tuesday mornings and at the Knox Park Netball Courts in Murwillumbah on Wednesday mornings and only charges participants $5 per session.

“I have tried to keep the price affordable for everyone in the community” Ms Thomas said.

“Once I pay the local council hundreds of

dollars a year to use the netball courts and the same amount again for insurance, there is nothing left for other expenses, so even the smallest grant is a blessing.”

Ms Thomas said falls prevention programs are “essential for the community” and everyone should be encouraged to get up and move.

“Older participants often tell me that members of their families have discouraged them from doing any activity just in case they fall,” she said.

“This in most cases is the worst thing that family members could do to their loved ones.

“Once people get scared and inactive, it is a very fast downward spiral to the loss of independence.

“This is where Park Active comes in. It is a safe, no impact, easy way to regain your walking confidence and agility with a little mental stimulation thrown in.

“All abilities are catered for and people work at their own pace. Whether they use a walker, walking stick or nothing, it is really heartening to see the improvement in their confidence and walking after just a few sessions.”

To find out more give Park Active a call on 0419 610 088.

Budget welcomed

By Jonathon Howard

THE NOT-FOR-PROFIT organisation Social Futures has welcomed government measures to address cost of living pressures and a funding increase for the community services sector in the federal budget — but would like the government to invest more in public housing.

Social Futures CEO Tony Davies said many households would welcome the expansion of Medicare bulk billing, energy bill relief and cheaper medicines, and he was glad to see a 15 per cent boost to rent assistance.

Mr Davies said he was also pleased to see the $3.5 billion increase to incentivise general practitioners to bulk bill.

“The change applies to children under 16 years and pensioner and Commonwealth concession card holders. That means about 11 million people could benefit from free doctor visits,” he said.

Mr Davies also cautiously welcomed the modest $40 per fortnight increase to income support payments like JobSeeker.

“For so many years that payment has been so low that recipients have struggled to pay their living expenses and find a new job,” he said.

“To be honest, $40 is nowhere near enough. Social Futures would have liked to see something that made a real difference.

“It is encouraging to see that workers over 55 years will receive a higher payment, but really this should go to people of all ages. Rents are too high regardless of your age and the low levels of Youth Allowance are unconscionable.”

Mr Davies did applaud the $9 billion increase in childcare subsidies over the next four years, which should benefit around 1.2 million families.

Mr Davies also hailed the increase in community service funding.

“Charities and not-for-profits, like Social Futures, have been calling for our funding to be increased in line with the wage price or con-

sumer price index. I’m very glad Treasurer Jim Chalmers has listened,” Mr Davies said.

“Australian organisations that deliver community services like housing, family support and mental health supports will receive an extra $560 million over the next four years. This is great news given costs are rising on so many fronts.”

Mr Davies said an area where the government had fallen short was housing.

“This is the worst national housing crisis in living memory and it is clear that Australia needs more social housing,” he said.

A coalition of charities behind the national Everybody’s Home campaign is calling for at least 25,000 social homes to be build every year for the next 20 years.

“The government’s housing fund will only pay for the construction of 20,000 social housing properties over the next five years — that is clearly not enough to meet the nation’s burgeoning housing needs,” Mr Davies said.

The government’s Housing Fund has not yet been approved by the senate, with the crossbench demanding change.

Mr Davies also questioned the value of negative gearing for investors who buy rental properties, and its impact on the housing market.

“Rents are soaring, meanwhile a report by Anglicare has found that the top 20 per cent of income earners will have received more than $42 billion in negative gearing and capital gains concessions and exemptions this financial year,” he said.

The budget has outlined more funding for community housing providers and new tax breaks for build to rent.

“Overall, this budget is a step in the right direction with increased supports for people who are struggling, but of course the community service sector would like the government to go further and deliver more provisions for those doing it hard,” Mr Davies said.

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Park Active is for everyone!

Falls prevention is a big focus at Park Active

Wallaby deaths shock

By Jo Kennett

LOCAL WILDLIFE lovers were devastated to hear of the loss of four rarely-seen swamp wallabies — two mothers both with joeys — in the Pottsville area last week.

A wallaby and her joey were killed on Tuesday, May 9, on the entry road into Koala Beach Estate, Cudgera Avenue.

Tweed Valley Wildlife Carer Amber Cameron said the wallaby was found opposite Pottsville Public School near the roundabout with Tweed Coast Road.

“A member of the public named James found her in the middle of the road and pulled it off the road. He checked the pouch and found she had a joey and it was alive,” Amber said.

“He called Tweed Valley Wildlife Carers and I went down. She had head injuries and had clearly been hit by a car.

“The joey was alive so TVWC Macropod Coordinator Corrina Lever took her to Currumbin Wildlife Hospital but because it was underdeveloped and the organs aren’t fully developed it had to be euthanised.

“They are in the pouch for about eight months and then they start to venture out but are still coming back in to sucker.

“It happened at around 6am, the time of morning when it’s still fairly dark, people

are going to work and wildlife is moving around.”

The second wallaby was found between Pottsville Beach Public School and the Shell service station at Hastings Point.

“A member of the public brought the deceased mum to my house to check if the joey was alive or dead because she was unsure,” Amber said.

“The joey was already dead. The first joey was the size of a woman’s hand and the second one was a lot smaller and younger, but both of them were undeveloped.

“I think what shocked people is that we hardly ever see them anymore and then we have four deaths in two days.

“They had five callouts for wallabies on that Tuesday; it was the most they have ever had.”

Amber wants to thank the people who contacted Tweed Valley Wildlife Carers (WIRES doesn’t operate in the Tweed Shire).

“If people don’t stop, the joey would have suffered a slow and painful death in the pouch still alive while the mum is dead, and if it was older it can be saved if

people stop and check,” she said.

“It’s about it being more conscious that at dusk and dawn around vegetated areas there is the potential for a macropod to jump out or wildlife in general because that is when they are moving around.”

“Keeping to the speed limit gives drivers time to slow down as well.”

Koala Beach Wildlife and Habitat Management Committee member Irene Timmins said the deaths were “absolutely devastating to our community”.

“It’s tragic because swamp wallabies have largely disappeared from the Tweed Coast,” she said.

“Long-term residents of Koala Beach Estate can recall high numbers of swamp wallabies about a decade ago but today no one sees them.

“How can this happen on roads designated 40kh/h and within a wildlife and conservation protected area as is Koala Beach Estate”

“Cudgera Avenue, the scene of this fatality, is quickly becoming a notorious wildlife death road.”

If you find injured wildlife call Tweed Valley Wildlife Carers 24/7 on (02) 6672 4789.

Marine Rescue training

A FLEET of jet skis manned by local NSW Marine Rescue volunteers have been out on the water training for inshore and bar rescues.

The Marine Rescue Point Danger (MRPD) unit is expanding its capability to include emergency response to assist with covering inshore and bar areas with Rescue Water Craft (RWCs) where they may be needed.

A crew of volunteers went out on the jet skis on Wednesday, May 10, for a training session that included bar handling, inshore search, and casualty recovery.

The crew were assisted by Marine Rescue Brunswick Heads who provided two jet skis for the training session, as well as two which were provided by NSW Marine Rescue. MRPD public relations officer Aaron Ashley said the unit will be looking at getting a couple of RWCs “so we can expand our capabilities to respond to emergencies in the river and in the bar area.”

“It’s for cases where we can’t get a boat in, for instance we have had young teenagers stuck on rock walls that we can’t get the boat to, or up into tributaries if we need to go into areas that are too tight for our rescue boats.”

The wallaby had a joey in its pouch which had to be euthanised

One of the dead wallabies beside Cudgera Avenue at Pottsville

Marine Rescue Point Danger volunteers heading out for training.

Photos by Marine Rescue Point Danger

Surf doco Taking Off

By Jo Kennett

SOME BRAVE women have taught themselves how to make a documentary to highlight older female surfers in Taking Off, which has its world premiere at Southern Cross University, Bilinga, on Saturday, May 20.

Rookie filmmaker and executive producer Jen Jeffries said she and her wife Alice went to some surf film festivals in 2021 and wondered where all the older women surfers were.

“All the surfers on film were 20 or 30-year-old chicks and we said, ‘Someone should make a film’ and so we did it,” Jen told The Weekly.

“We had to work out how to make a documentary because we had never done it before.

“We want to redefine the conversation about what it means to age well, for both men and women.

“It’s about health span not just life span, the mental health of being in a community and looking out for each other, and the physical benefits of surfing.”

The women teamed up with Tweed Coast surf photographer Hannah Jessup, who started Surf Witches Boardrider Club which features in the film and has 3,000 members in South East Queensland and Northern NSW.

“We asked Hannah if she wanted to learn how to make a movie with us and she said yes,

so we all had to learn how to do it,” Jen said.

“We didn’t even think about music but then we found a muso surfer on the Sunny Coast who composed the original music for free. No one is making money from this.

“We got a grant through the government’s Investing in Queensland Women’s program and that went to Hannah who has put in an insane amount of time on the documentary.”

The film features six surfing women who are all over 55 and is about reinventing ourselves and finally fulfilling long-held dreams. It was shot at Greenmount and Rainbow Bay, and Jen said it is just as relevant to older men as it is to women.

“So many people feel invisible and retreat as they get older and so we wanted women who were already engaged in the community,” Jen said.

“I love that they are blue collar workers in their 60s to PhDs, a really cool diverse range of people and they have all come to surfing later in life and that was a big part. Margaret started surfing at 69 (Jen took up surfing at 56).

“The doc is only 23 minutes long which we did to get it on television and we are doing a Q and A with the surfers and doco crew and we’d love to see guys come along too.”

Taking Off is at Southern Cross University, Gold Coast Campus, Bilinga, on May 20 from 5pm to 8pm “because surfers like to go to bed early.” For tickets visit: takingoffdoco.com

Reaching for the Stars at Murwillumbah Public School

The sky is certainly not the limit for students at Murwillumbah Public School. The school runs comprehensive programs that cater for the learning needs of all students. For some of our gifted and talented students extension programs are offered that increase their engagement and challenge them to problem solve in a range of creative and analytical ways.

Students in years 5 & 6, with the starry guidance of teacher, Natalie Barbagallo, are engaged in an innovative program called The Australian Virtual Astronaut Challenge. In this program students become astronauts who are set a number of challenges to solve. As teams they complete research in areas such robotics, home on the moon, growing food in space, artificial intelligence and observations of earth. They use their research and develop systematic methods to define and identify challenges, design solutions and create prototypes to demonstrate their understanding of the problems discovered. Students are supported by experts in a range of fields to complete their projects. This year long program will culminate in the Young Space Explorers event scheduled for December.

In addition these talented students are involved in a Dept of Education program known as the Game Changer

Challenge. Open to public schools across NSW students need to discover solutions for a real -world wicked problem by applying classroom learning. The 2023 problem is “ Invent or innovate something that will change our world and leave a lasting impact.”

The emphasis of Game Changer is for students to use “Design Thinking” to solve complex problems. This human centred process focuses on empathy and collaboration as the key fundamentals in problem solving. In 2022 two of the three groups involved were successful in reaching the regional finals of this event competing against 80 other groups.

The students at Murwillumbah Public School are highly engaged in these programs and love the opportunity to extend their learning in these challenging group events.

The school also involves students in years 3,4,5 & 6 in a series of five Maths Olympiad where they use problem solving strategies to solve 5 problems designed to challenge their mathematical reasoning skills. Murwillumbah Public School is determined to ensure every student has the opportunity to fulfil his or her full potential. These programs will ensure they can go to the stars and beyond.

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Mother of five and Tweed food dynamo

By Madeleine Murray

HANNAH SETCHELL never has a moment to herself, and she likes it that way.

With five children from teething age to university, and three food businesses in the Tweed Shire, Hannah and her fiancé Toby Bamford are part of our daily dining life.

One year ago, the Round Mountain locals took over the restaurant/cafe at the Tweed Regional Gallery.

Hannah and Toby made the tables themselves, put in soft, stylish comfortable chairs, and created an interesting menu full of tempting choices such as ponzu pork belly roll or lemon myrtle sourdough crumpets.

The view was particularly magnificent on the afternoon The Weekly visited Hannah at the gallery cafe. It had been raining, and shafts of light were piercing the grey clouds, highlighting emerald patches in the fields below, the caramel cattle, and the winding river with sparkling curves.

Hannah and Toby have a blended family that ranges from 18-year-old Kirra to Tucker who is seven months old.

When Tucker was not in his mother’s arms, he was crawling around and standing up holding onto a chair, a remarkable feat for his age.

“He’s a beautiful boy with a gorgeous temperament who loves people,” Hannah said happily.

Hannah and Toby took over the gallery cafe just after COVID.

“It was perfect timing for us,” Hannah told The Weekly.

“Our relationship was evolving. We’d been together for four years so it was time for us to take on something together.”

They also run Baked at Ancora in Tweed Heads and Pastry Baked Espresso in the Tweed Mall, where they make perfect flaky, buttery croissants, which brighten up the weekends of coffee drinkers at the Uki Post Office.

Hannah is passionate about her

work, particularly training talented staff.

“I had a dream when I was 13 years old,” she said. “I grew up on the Great Ocean Road down in Victoria, my first job was in a cafe called Skinny Legs, and I knew then that I wanted cafes, that I wanted hospitality.

“A lot of people who come into hospitality don’t stick it out, it’s not their dream.

“But you do meet a few. They’re the ones I love to inspire and train.

“Hospitality is hard, things happen at a very fast pace. It gives me joy to see kids grow up and thrive in a safe environment.”

Hannah once lived a very different life. Her ex-husband worked in the mines and she stayed home with three young daughters.

After the separation, Hannah worked for the PLB (Perfect Last Bite) Group where she met Toby.

“It was such a magnificent journey. I never thought I would fall in love again. When I met Toby I was dumbfounded, it’s a different kind of love the second time round.

“I fell in love with him because he loved what I loved — training and development.

“The gallery cafe came up for tender and it was a no-brainer for us. It was something we could call ours, that we’ve done together.

“It meant that we could design, develop, create everything that we wanted through this venue.”

They have changed the venue significantly, now called Apex Dining.

“We handmade all the tables togeth-

er. We sat for hours deciding on the colour palette, the furniture,” Hannah said.

“We wanted to make something that matched the view. Beautiful decor, comfortable seating, delicious food.” And they succeeded. They plan to do events, weddings, birthdays, twilight series with live jazz, and more. Another great destination in the Tweed.

Apex Dining at the gallery is open Wednesday to Sunday, from 9am to 4pm.

Family and producing great food are Hannah's two loves in life

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Asbestos professionals who can assist with identifying asbestos include: licensed asbestos assessors and removalists

occupational hygienists who have experience with asbestos persons who have undertaken a recognised training course in asbestos identification.

In the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), a person must be licensed to carry out an asbestos assessment of a residential property.

At the completion of the assessment, the assessor will provide you with a report that should include:

the date of the assessment

the address of the property

the details of any identified or assumed asbestos-containing materials, including location, type of asbestos and its condition the results of any laboratory analysis of samples taken from the property.

An assessment report may also include photographs of identified or assumed asbestos-containing materials in the property, and advice on its management or removal.

In all other Australian states and territories, a person does not need to be licensed to carry out an asbestos inspection or assessment of a residential property to identify asbestos-containing materials (these requirements differ if the assessment is for ensuring a space is safe after asbestos removal).

Tweed Citizen of the Year Joan Henderson on Refugees

ON TUESDAY, June 6, we will have the privilege of welcoming to Murwillumbah the recipient of the Fred Hollows Humanitarian Award 2022, Muzafar Ali.

Muzafar has been acknowledged for his incredible humanitarian work providing education for refugee children who are trapped indefinitely in countries such as Indonesia and Thailand where they are not permitted to attend school.

When living in Afghanistan, Muzafar had worked for the United Nations, travelling to remote communities to negotiate disarmament, strengthen democracy and monitor human rights.

With his first salary he purchased a camera and became a passionate and talented photographer.

He donated his photographs to promote education, women’s rights, social justice and democracy.

He was the first Afghan photographer exhibited by the United Nations in Afghanistan

When the Taliban tried to bomb his car because of his work for the UN, Muzafar and his family were forced to flee their homeland.

Stuck in limbo in Indonesia for years with many thousands of others, Muzafar became a community leader in bringing people together and encouraging everyone to pool their strengths and skills and create their own community and a future for their children.

He worked to establish the Cisarua Learning Centre in Indonesia and also education projects in Thailand. Ten years on, Cisarua Learning supports 1000 students, 100 teachers, and six refugee-led initiatives in Indonesia and Thailand. Sydney University of Technology is a

partner providing online training to the adults who teach the children.

It was in Cisarua that Muzafar was to meet and establish an enduring friendship with renowned filmmaker Jolyon Hoff, who directed and produced the powerful film ‘The Staging Post’ about these events.

After finally arriving in Australia in 2015, Muzafar was surprised to discover that this country has an Afghan history going back to the 1860s with the work of the Afghan cameleers in central Australia.

He embarked on a journey to meet the descendents of these cameleers, accompanied once again by filmmaker Jolyon.

The film is a powerful search for identity, and explores the meeting of the two ancient cultures of Australia’s First Nations people and that of Afghanistan.

Muzafar discovers that culture and connection have miraculously endured.

A member of the persecuted Hazara minority in Afghanistan, Muzafar is the first in five generations of his family to no longer be a refugee.

He has tried to describe what a momentous feeling it is to finally have a home in Australia from which his family will no longer have to flee.

We are fortunate if, at least once in our lifetime, we have the opportunity to meet someone who truly changes lives. For me, that person is Muzafar Ali.

We hope that many members of our community will be able to join us at 6pm at the Regent Cinema on June 6 as Muzafar presents his film ‘Watandar My Countryman’ followed by a Q&A.

Facing up to change

By Jo Kennett

A TRIO of changemakers are appearing in Murwillumbah on Wednesday, May 24, at a Facing Up event looking at how to deal with the ecological crisis facing our world. Facing Up is a series of trauma-informed conversations that focuses on the social, economic, cultural, political, emotional and spiritual consequences of the ecological crisis.

In a series of public conversations, held monthly from March to November this year, some of Australia’s leading thinkers consider our place in a rapidly transformed world, and how we might think, feel and act in ways that are grounded, empowering and life-affirming. This month, local residents will have a chance to hear from speakers who work to change the system. How does it affect them? How do they deal with it? What do they do about it?

Cate McQuillen is the Northern Rivers-based Emmy Award-winning Australian co-creator of the much-loved animated stories of Dirtgirlworld.

Krysta McMah works for the Australian Youth Climate Coalition as an organiser, supporting grassroots groups and leaders in Queensland

and Regional NSW to take action for climate justice.

Tim Hollo is executive director of the Green Institute and founder and CEO of Green Music Australia who has performed around the world from the Sydney Opera House to Carnegie Hall with FourPlay String Quartet.

Join this trio of changemakers to discuss how to grow our acceptance and strength to support each other in this period of significant change and ultimately face up to the challenges ahead.

Where: The Regent Cinema, Murwillumbah. When: Wednesday, May 24, at 6pm with doors open from 5.30pm so you can grab food and drinks at the Regent’s bar, if you like.

Tickets are available via: events.humanitix. com/facing-up-may

Muzafar Ali and Jolyon Hoff on location in the Flinders Ranges. Photo by Katrina Penning

Dirtgirlworld co-creator Cate McGuillen will be appearing at Facing Up

New EV course

By Jonathon Howard

ENROLMENTS FOR TAFE NSW’s Electric Vehicle Skillset course are on the rise at Kingscliff TAFE, as automotive workers look to upskill and prepare for a new wave of electric vehicles.

The federal government has recently released the National Electric Vehicle Strategy in a bid to increase the uptake of electric vehicles (EVs) to reduce emissions.

The strategy has prompted calls from the automotive industry to ensure there is a wellplanned and supported transition for employees across the automotive industry so they can adapt and reskill.

TAFE NSW is well placed to meet this need, with interest in the Electric Vehicle Skillset course peaking in the Kingscliff area. More courses have been added as industry locals praise the concepts being taught, which includes repair techniques, isolation of high voltage batteries, depowering/repowering, and diagnostics and testing.

Spinners Automotive owner and SIXT car rental supplier Peter Clarke recently completed the course and said it’s a “top quality” course. He is now offering the use of any electric vehicles in his rental fleet for the students to

utilise for future courses.

Peter believes electric vehicles are making a huge impact in the Australian marketplace and says it’s important to upskill now.

“TAFE NSW is preparing the industry for changes in this space and their role is vital as more workers make this transition,” he said.

“Their equipment, facilities and teachers are all top quality.

“This course is allowing us to equip ourselves to take our business in a different direction, as electric vehicles become more prominent.

“It is incredible to see this being rolled out and I’ll do whatever I can to support it.”

TAFE NSW Teacher for Automotive Trades Clint Flower says partnerships with industry are essential to ensuring more mechanics are retraining and learning the essential components for electric vehicle maintenance.

“The enthusiasm and support we are seeing from the industry is really encouraging,” he said.

“By working closely with experienced and respected automotive experts to deliver this course, we can highlight the exciting opportunities in this space.”

TAFE NSW is adding more courses as demand increases on the North Coast. For more information about studying at TAFE NSW, visit www. tafensw.edu.au or phone 131 601.

Nominate now

By Jonathon Howard

THE COUNTDOWN is on to nominate for the all-new Victory Organisation Tweed Shire Business Awards taking place at Seagulls Club on Friday, September 1.

Local businesses have until close of business on Monday, June 19, to nominate for one of 18 awards categories, including the highly coveted Best Business Award.

Event coordinator Julie West said she wanted to welcome the event’s latest major sponsor, Ivory Waterside owner Scott Oakley.

“We are so pleased to welcome Scott and his business Ivory Waterside as a major sponsor, joining our other current major sponsors including Victory Organisation, who are the naming sponsor,” she said.

“We are also pleased to welcome Nutra Organics, which is a great support for this amazing event.”

Mr Oakley came on board early as a sponsor and he’s encouraging local businesses to nominate now.

“I believe that being a sponsor of the Tweed Business Awards is a great opportunity to give back to the local community and help other local businesses acknowledge their accomplishments,” he said.

“The awards give businesses a time to reflect on their success and an opportunity to work with their team when submitting their nomination.

“After all, it is your team who build and maintain your reputation, particularly in areas such as hospitality, tourism and customer service.”

Mr Oakley said it is also a great time to recognise your employees, trainees and apprentices.

“Even get their own personal input when nominating in these categories,” he said.

“Being part of the Hurley Hotel Group, we employ more than 600 people with many long-

term employees.

“Ivory Waterside places high priority on great customer experience and loyalty, so it is paramount we have a strong culture within our team.

“Winning a business award is a huge confidence booster for any business owner, sets you apart from the crowd and cements your credibility.”

Ms West said now is the time to log on and nominate for a category.

“We are giving away two free tickets to the event, valued at $300, to one lucky business owner who submits their nomination by Wednesday, May 31 (conditions apply, official nomination closes June 19),” she said.

To find out more visit the website via: tweedbusinessaward.org – nomination now!

A new electric vehicle course has launched at Kingscliff TAFE and it's a cracker according to locals

Ivory Waterside owner Scott Oakley is a proud new major sponsor of Tweed Business Awards

“The staff have become like family to my Mum and this means the world to us. We love them too.”

dad safe, protected and happy.”

Our Victorian Residences:

Our Local Residences:

Lynbrook Park

Heritage Lodge | Murwillumbah

42 Olive Road, Lynbrook

194 Byangum Road

The Ashley 17-21 Ashley Street, Reservoir

Rosebrook

Ra es | Tweed Heads South Peregrine Drive, O 2 Falcon Way

441 Waterfall Gully Road, Rosebud

Newmans on the Park

33 Newmans Road, Templestowe

We believe that everyone deserves to live the happiest life they can. So by providing the right care, the very best

We believe that everyone deserves to live the happiest life they can. So by providing the right care, the very best

We understand that the decision to join our community is a level of care and compassion our residents enjoy, you’ll want to call McKenzie home.

We understand that the decision to join our community is a level of care and compassion our residents enjoy, you’ll want to call McKenzie home.

Charlesbrook

1 Innisfallen Avenue, Templestowe

Sut ton Park

1300 899 222 mckenzieacg.com

– Joanne Smith, Maggie’s daughter.

– Kerry , daughter of a McKenzie resident

Rowing club results

MEMBERS OF Murwillumbah Rowing Club travelled to Wyaralong Dam, near Beaudesert, to compete in the Queensland State Masters Championships on May 5 and May 6.

Despite being one of the smaller rowing clubs represented, the club won 17 gold, five silver and six bronze medals across all age groups and boat classes.

There were 89 finals in total and Murwillumbah won 17 of them.

The majority of the Murwillumbah competitors competed in multiple events over the 1km course.

The performance is particularly notable as training consistently has not been easy since the floods of last year, when the club lost its river access with the bank being washed away. A generous neighbour allows the club to use the beach in front of his property to boat from

without which rowing from the club site would be impossible.

The club has recently been successful in applying for a grant from the NSW Office of Sport to rebuild access to the river, and work on restoring access should start in the near future.

The season is not over yet though. In a few weeks, 12 members of the club will travel to Sydney to compete in the Australian Masters Rowing Championships being held at Sydney International Regatta Centre from June 1 to 4.

At this event, two Murwillumbah members, Scott O’Reilly and Doug Cryer, have been selected to represent Queensland in the Men’s Masters State Quad that will race against other state’s crews in the Interstate Race.

The club wanted to extend a big thank you to Frank and Sue Jolly who let the club use their riverfront to launch its boats.

You Have a Friend

By Jonathon Howard

TWEED HEADS-BASED charity You Have A Friend Inc will use money from Greater Bank’s Community Funding Program to provide free breakfast for local school students who would otherwise go without.

You Have A Friend received $2,000 after topping the vote count in the April round of the program, with $500 going to both Fibromyalgia ME/CFS Gold Coast Support Group Inc and Waves of Wellness Foundation as runners-up.

You Have A Friend is a not-for-profit organisation that has been operational for 15 years and is currently run by 80 volunteers and has no paid employees.

You Have A Friend founder John Lee said that all money raised goes directly to supporting people in need.

“We support the homeless, the marginalised, single parents and their children, as well as providing more than 300 meals, plus fruit or vegetables and grocery items each week on the streets of the Tweed Heads district,” he said.

“We have also supported and still support many local flood victims, and spent time providing equipment and supplies to farmers struggling with the recent droughts.

“Having found out that a number of local students are turning up to school without having eaten, we now run a program that provides

breakfast items like bread, milk, cereal and fruit to local state schools so that kids can get their day off to a better start.

“Teachers can see the difference a good meal makes to students’ concentration levels, so we’ll use this very welcome funding from Greater Bank to help cover the cost of the program and ensure kids make the most of their educational opportunities.”

Greater Bank’s Gold Coast Regional Sales Manager Scott McCluskey said good nutrition is a vital part of kids’ development.

“Kids who are hungry can’t focus on their schoolwork and are therefore more likely to fall behind and become distracted from learning,” he said.

“Making sure they have breakfast gives them a much better chance at succeeding at school, which opens all sorts of possibilities for the future, so we are very pleased to be able to support You Have A Friend with their important work.”

Another $3,000 up for grabs in the #GreaterGoldCoast May round, with Radio Lollipop Gold Coast, Pacific Pines Junior Australian Rules Football Club Inc and Twin Towns Kindergarten in the running as monthly nominees.

The public online vote is now open until 5pm Wednesday, May 24, via: greater.com.au/greatergoldcoast.

Some of the rowers from Murwillumbah Rowing Club who brought home 17 gold medals from the Queensland State Masters Championships

Take time to discover SOUTH MURWILLUMBAH

FOR A truly literary experience, visit Pulp Fiction at 309 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah.

We have ScienceFiction, Faction and Fantasy, The Sleuth Section, Sea Shanties, all the classics and more.

History and Herstory, War Stories, True Stories, Travel and Adventure; The Sciences (natural and or other-wise) Philosophy, Art, Archaeology, Anthropology and Art. There are books about animals,

tattoos, music, biology and botany. Oh and an eclectic collection of second hand and vintage clothing We buy, sell and swap quality second-hand books.

SOUTH

MURWILLUMBAH Post

Office is owned and operated by Katherine & Rod Butterworth, who take pride in offering their customers friendly and helpful service.

Open Mon - Fri 8.30am - 5pm

Stocking a wide range of products available to Australia Post, ensures convenience is paramount, ordering anything that is not currently in store from Australia Post.

The post office is well known for its’ extensive range of award winning childrens books and many new titles will be coming in.

The Post Office is the ATM for the Southside with deposits and withdrawals as Australia Post deals with over 80 banks including the NAB so no need to go into town. Passport, forklift, boat licence and bus driver’s photographic service is also available with digital receipt if needed. For those starting to travel overseas foreign money can be purchased and delivered within 2 days.

As licensees, Katherine and Rod

Edwards Plumbing

EDWARDS PLUMBING

is a family owned and operated business that has been servicing Tweed Shire for over 51 years.

SOUTH MURWILLUMBAH POST OFFICE

22 Prospero Street Murwillumbah

• FRIENDLY SERVICE

• AMPLE PARKING 89878

assist their customers with daily errands including advising on best way to pack and post, bill paying, banking, mobile phone recharges and for that special occasion prepaid gift cards. Post Box facilities add to the convenience of South Murwillumbah Post Office. Tax file numbers can also be processed here. A photocopying and faxing services is also available. South Murwillumbah Post Office provides ample parking, plus offers ‘early opening’ at 8.30 am to assist customers who work between 9.00am and 5.00pm.

Visit Rod and Katherine at the post office Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5.00pm, at 22 Prospero Street, South Murwillumbah.

EDWARDS PLUMBING

Mark and Graham, the directors of the business along with their friendly staff can offer you all plumbing and iron roofing services. Professional advice can be offered for plumbing and roofing solutions.

464

need plumbing and roofing specialists, give Edwards Plumbing a call today. Located in Prospero Street, open 7.30am-4.30pm Monday to Friday.

Motorcycle Clinic

HERE AT The Motorcycle Clinic, we service road bikes such as commuters and scooters through to your road touring adventure and sports bikes.

We have a diagnostic tool for the BMW’s and Triumphs but we also love the Japanese brands. We can help set up your suspension, tyre combinations and tune for road bikes.

Also Luke and Hayden, are avid dirt bike riders and racers.

We are also experts in Enduro or Motocross servicing, race set ups, suspension work and tyres to get the very best from your dirt bike.

Murwillumbah Chiropractic & Massage

WE HAVE been taking care of families since 1998 and believe in a holistic approach to health and fitness.

We focus on improving your health and wellbeing as quickly as possible, to keep you active and healthy, so you get the best out of life.

We can help enhance your life… whether it be to reduce or eliminate your headaches, neck or back pain or improve your wellbeing and health.

We are a provider for all health insurance plans. If paying out of

Datco Aluminium

OUR SHOWROOM is almost back to normal after the devastating floods last year thanks to our great team at Datco!

CLINIC

We haven’t forgotten the farmer! We love helping the men and women on the land with their ATVs. We service and repair All Terrain Vehicles and try to do quick turn around times to keep them in the paddock.

Feel free to drop in for free advice from the team.

pocket we have several cash options available for your specific situation. We also have a range of Kombucha and other ProBiotic and PreBiotic food products, pillows and Inner Sole shoe inserts. Call (02) 6672 2760 NOW and schedule a consultation.

New builds and renova�ons

Architectural Consulta�ons

Glass Stairs and Landings

–

Showers

Our specialised products include double glazed and architecturally designed windows and doors for new builds and renovations. Datco can offer a large range of products to suit every need including glass made specifically for projects. We still offer onsite reglazes, fly and

2 Sta ord St Murwillumbah South 02 66723464

security screens, shower screens, mirrors and cut-to-size glass. Call the office now to book your measure and quote or drop in to see how our renovations and new showroom are coming along!

Country Dirt Blasters Car Detailing

COUNTRY DIRT

Blasters is a local family owned and operated mobile car detailing service.

Country DIRT BLASTERS

Mobile Car Detailing

• 7 Days a Week • We Come to You!

•Detailing Trucks All Sizes

Ph

We service from Lismore to the Gold Coast and everywhere in between.

Our family business has been established for over four years and operates 7 days a week.

We can conveniently come to you for all your detailing needs or

JNJ Tyres

MURWILLUMBAH LOCALS Xavier

Hawkey and Jacob

Wilson have teamed up this year to launch JNJ Tyres in South Murwillumbah.

The dynamic duo opened the shop in February at 48 Prospero Street.

alternatively you can come to us in our new premises in Cliffords Lane, South Murwillumbah.

Eftpos and gift cards are available for your convenience.

If it has Wheels, we can wash it

Riverview Hotel

THE RIVERVIEW Hotel, located on Tweed Valley Way in South Murwillumbah. Enjoy the spectacular views of the Tweed River from the balcony of the bistro whilst you enjoy lunch or dinner.

The bistro offers a range of delicious meals from traditional pub dishes to devine seasonal specials, the bistro has something for everyone.

There is a wide selection of local and international beers available from the bar, with 13 varieties on tap.

Murwillumbah Smash Repairs

MURWILLUMBAH

PH: 0455 255 016

48 Prospero St, South Murwillumbah NSW 2484 jakestyres.5@gmail.com

They bring a wealth of knowledge and passion to the industry and can cover all your tyre needs.

“We offer a full range of tyre services including wheel alignments, tyre repairs and a great range of new tyres,” Jacob said.

“We both live locally and are passionate about the area and our work.”

Xavier and Jacob have a combined experience in the auto industry of 10 years and believe in quality workmanship.

Mayberry Meldrum Anderson joins the Oracle Group!

THE TEAM at Mayberry Meldrum

Anderson are happy to announce they have joined the Oracle Advisory Group.

Mayberry Meldrum Anderson clients can now access the full benefits that come from a truly national organisation. Oracle Advisory Group has the scope to assist you with any of your financial needs.

Oracle Advisory Group’s scope extends well beyond accounting, too.

We offer a full suite of services and can be your one-stop-shop partner in finance. Our team can assist you with financial planning, investment services, retirement planning, personal insurance, aged care, mortgage broking, home loans, investment loans, car and recreational vehicle loans, business loans and equipment finance.

Whether you’re a local entrepreneur, looking to retire in the picturesque region, or simply looking for in-depth financial advice, Oracle – and, now, Mayberry Meldrum

“We also stock a wide range of tyres including all the major brands,” Jacob said.

“We are able to service light vehicles, 4x4 and commercial vehicles.”

The pair are also open for business on Saturday.

“We’re open Monday to Saturday, six days a week. Pop in say hi, and get a free quote.”

Smash Repairs is one of the longest running smash repair shops in the Tweed Valley and has been established since 1984.

Owner Des Knight has recently welcomed his son, Micheal, to the business, which he says is a great new addition and brings a lot of experience with new technology. Michael is a fully qualified panel beater and prides himself, like his father, on quality workmanship for their customers.

“He’s got some great skills,” Des said.

“Especially when it comes to the new technology and working with computers in both the paint and panel side, but also in the front

Tweed Coast Pool Care

SOUTH

Murwillumbah is home to Murwillumbah Pool Shop.

Be entertained with live music, raffles, and live sports action on the big screens.

Win with TAB and Keno too. We offer pub-stay accommodation, which is clean, cosy, and affordable.

of house administration, which is great.”

Michael joined the business in July and the pair are already taking on extra work.

“We’re always open to new work and can help with all your smash repair needs, plus a range of other areas including detailing, rust proofing, windscreen repair, insurance work and more,” Michael said.

Des said the family enjoys working on the Southside – “I’d like to encourage locals and visitors to shop and do business in South Murwillumbah,” he said.

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www.murwillumbahpoolshop.com.au Mobile: 0413 030 491 www.tweedcoastpoolcare.com.au

SERVICING THE TWEED COAST & VALLEY AND SOUTHERN GOLD COAST

Pool & Spa Maintenance, Water Testing & Balancing, Pumps, Filters, Chlorinators, Pool Cleaners & Equipment, Sales, Installation & Repairs Tweed Valley Weekly Locals Supporting Locals Thursday, May 18, 2023 Discover South Murwillumbah 31

Anderson have the resources and capabilities to help you.

For clients, absolutely nothing changes, and it remains business as usual. You will continue to be able to access your existing Accounting & Tax services by coming to the same location in town.

Business Advisory Services

•

Tax returns for all types of entities • MMA online shop for Basic Individual Tax Returns

Ray, Ric, Mark, Craig and the team at the Pool Shop have more than 60 years combined industry experience.

They offer expert advice, FREE water testing and a free energy analysis where they can show you how to save up to 80 per cent off your pool running costs.

They stock all equipment including pumps, filters, chlorinators, ionisers, pool and spa chemicals, pool cleaners, pool heating, toys, PVC plumbing, accessories, spares, filter media, cleaning equipment and

much more.

If they don’t have it, they can get it!

They also offer a comprehensive Mobile Pool Service that covers the entire Tweed Coast and surrounding villages for your pool and spa maintenance, water testing and balancing.

Jason: 0487 434 292 or (02) 6672 1426 U3 /301 Clifford Lane South Murwillumbah

89861

267 TWEED VALLEY

Tweed Valley IGA

WELCOME TO

Tweed Valley IGA with two convenient locations in both the Murwillumbah CBD and on Tweed Valley Way in Murwillumbah’s southside.

We stock a great selection of all the big-name brands and products you know and trust.

We’re also proud to support local and Aussie producers by stocking a great range of locally made products. We actively participate in the communities around our stores doing whatever we can to help local schools, surf clubs or hospitals whether it’s footballs for the under 14’s or life-saving equipment.

We tailor our ranges and brands to give our local customers more of what they like, this includes many of your favourite brands like the ones you may no longer find on shelves in other supermarkets.

Though IGA Community Chest we continually raise funds to support

Buchanan Motors

BUCHANAN Motors

local communities, charities and other worthwhile causes, to date we’ve put well over $80 million back into communities across the country.

We love our local community, and we want to help it thrive in as many ways as possible.

We stock a huge range of products, so you can always get what you need.

We’re also open seven days from 6am to 9pm.

At the beginning of each day, we open our doors for one reason and one reason only, to deliver a shopping experience ‘how the locals like it’.

BUCHANAN MOTORS

Buchanan Motors is an established family owned business situated in Prospero St, South Murwillumbah. Kurt Buchanan is the proud owner of the business that opened its doors in January 2015.

0423 192 167

Kurt has more than 20 years experience in the industry and can offer services to all makes and models of cars.

Kurt also has over 20 years experience working with Subaru and Mitsubishi models. Buchanan Motors can also offer road worthy

Paradise Living Co.

A RETAIL store full of beautifully sourced home and bathroom furnishings to help give you a slice of paradise at home.

Featuring unique handcrafted pieces for all different interior styles with ranges of Rattan, Timber as well as Stone Baths and Basins. We work with our own manufacturers and local artisans of Indonesia, India and Morocco to bring you a diverse and curated collection.

Located in the gorgeous 120-yearold emporium style building in

inspections, servicing, brakes and suspension, E safety inspection, air conditioning maintenance. Now specialising in European vehicle repairs.

Pre-purchase inspections are available.No job is too big or small, call Buchanan Motors today on: 02 6672 4500

Echora

ECHORA is now 1 year old. We have had visitors from around Australia and the world visiting our beautiful town. We enjoy being on the ‘must do’ list of the now very popular art trail around greater Murwillumbah and most of all we we have enjoyed welcoming all of our local customers. We have shared stories, played dress-ups, sipped tea and enjoyed Ruby, Echora’s shop dog.

For those who we haven’t had the pleasure of meeting yet, our products are sourced from manufacturers that provide the best in sustainable and luxurious materials, like linen, silk, wool, ceramic, timber, leather and our unique range of super soft Beechwood core clothing.

Our intention at Echora is to connect

All Home Products

ALL HOME Products is a small family business with a big focus on all your HOT WATER SYSTEMS, solar, solar heat pumps, gas and electrics, based in South Murwillumbah.

All Home launched in March 1998 and is owned and operated by passionate locals Carol and Pryce Allsop.

Starting out with a small shed as a showroom, with a couple of gas stoves & cooktops on the floor & a dodgy old ute doing gas deliveries, they have diversified over the years to stay in business, including branching out into more energy efficient hot water services, water filtration & bathroom products.

They also associate & can recommend local trades to help out with your renovation or installations.

The couple have also seen many ups and downs over the years, including two major floods & lots of design fads that have come & gone in the last 25 years.

They have also brought up four children in the business and are now proud grandparents of seven grandchildren.

Pryce has extensive experience in the building supply industry that has helped make All Home Products the go to for a large variety of products.

The business supplies a vast

have discovered the best Northern Rivers and Australian high quality artisan brands, classic and emerging designs and beautifully natural body care ranges, including our exquisite organic fragrances.

Our customer service is about connection, between each of us and the essential things we surround ourselves with through life.

We invite you to visit us at Echora on the corner of River and Prospero Streets, South Murwillumbah.

range of LPG gas fittings and hoses, brass flared fittings, regulators, universal thermocouples as well as bathroom products, water purifiers and just about anything gas related including gas cooking, gas heaters, gas fittings, gas camp burners.

Carol with her extensive experience in small business, brings a lot of enthusiasm to All Home Products and loves working with her husband (sometimes haha).

Carol’s friendly approach to service has grown All Home Products business since it’s early days and she now has extensive knowledge of the products. You can take advantage of that knowledge by calling All Home Products or sending them an e-mail regarding products you are interested in or require.

They would like to thank all their valued customers which most have become friends over the years for their on going support of small business.

the historical main street of South Murwillumbah which has been lovingly restored preserving a piece of history in our beloved town.

Visit us at 23 Prospero St, South Murwillumbah (02) 6672 7353

Explore our beachside boutique at 82 Marine Parade, Kingscliff

that make up South Murwillumbah.

fashion, postage, great food, health services, plumbing, pool services, gas supplies, tyres, glass and aluminum, all your motobike needs and one of the greatest hotels in the Tweed.

Hayes Toyota

STEADFAST and rugged, Hilux has served generations of Australians for over 50 years. Today, the legendary ute is smarter, safer and tougher than ever.

Big City Deals, with Local Service

Keeping you mobile Since 1917

Hayes Toyota

34 Prospero Street, Murwillumbah

T 02 6672 1666

LIC NO. MD1131 - hayestoyota.com.auut

The latest in Toyota tech, safety and innovation, Connectivity features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto means you’re always tuned in. Available as a Single, Extra and Double-Cab, you also have the choice of 4x2 or 4x4.

No matter how hard you work or play, the Hilux is up for it.

Don’t waste any more time - Come & visit the Friendly Team at Hayes Toyota today – some models even available for EOFY

Perched on the banks of the Tweed River in Murwillumbah, resides the award winning bistro, the Tweed River House.

Dine in the century-old Dining Room under elegant pressed metal ceilings, or the River Verandah, overlooking the Tweed River with sweeping hinterland and river views.

The riverside Lawn Bar is ideal for a drink and

Thursday-Sunday, Dinner Friday & Saturday Lawn Bar Saturday & Sunday

Dine in the centuryold Dining Room under elegant pressed metal ceilings, or the River Verandah, overlooking the Tweed River with sweeping hinterland and river views.

lighter bites.

TWEEDRIVERHOUSE.COM.AU

The riverside Lawn Bar is ideal

Muzz Smith Smash Repairs

EXPERIENCED

spray painter and panel beater Murray

for a drink and lighter bites. Come and listen to live music on Sundays at the Lawn Bar - the perfect place after riding the Rail Trail to relax and take in the views.

Perched on the banks of the Tweed River in Murwillumbah, resides the award winning bistro, the Tweed River House.

Dine in the century-old Dining Room under elegant pressed metal ceilings, or the River Verandah, overlooking the Tweed River with sweeping hinterland and river views.

The riverside Lawn Bar is ideal for a drink and lighter bites.

Singhs Fresh Fruit & Vegetables

89883

THE LOCAL Singh family have had Singh’s Fresh Fruit and Vegies on Tweed Valley Way for quite a number of years now and is located opposite the Railway Station and next to the RTA. They are well known for stocking the freshest fruit and vegies available with most of it taken fresh from the paddocks and farms situated in our beautiful valley and from the Singh’s farm.

Singh’s also stock a large range of curry pastes, pickles, Asian spices and ready-to-cook Indian foods

Road and Rail cafe

Perched on the banks of the Tweed River in Murwillumbah, resides the award winning bistro, the Tweed River House.

Dine in the century-old Dining Room under elegant pressed metal ceilings, or the River Verandah, overlooking the Tweed River with sweeping hinterland and river views.

The riverside Lawn Bar is ideal for a drink and lighter bites.

MUZZ SMITH SMASH

Perched

Lunch Thursday-Sunday, Dinner Friday & Saturday Lawn Bar Saturday & Sunday

TWEEDRIVERHOUSE.COM.AU

Dine in the century-old Dining Room under elegant pressed metal ceilings, or the River Verandah, overlooking the Tweed River with sweeping hinterland and river views. The riverside Lawn Bar is ideal for a drink and lighter bites.

Lunch Thursday-Sunday, Dinner Friday & Saturday Lawn Bar Saturday & Sunday

TWEEDRIVERHOUSE.COM.AU

Murray Smith - Owner 17 Prospero Street, Murwillumbah 0487 762 513

“Muzz “Smith. Murray brings a wealth of knowledge and over 50 years’ experience handed down by his father with an attention to detail and quality service.

LICENSED REPAIRER MVRL56170

spray painting (resprays), dent removal, smash repairs, color matching and restoration work.”

Muzz Smith Smash provides its customers with competitive quotes on all smash work.

“We can do all your panel and paint work” Murray said. “Insurance work (third party), bumper repairs,

To find out more about Muzz Smith Smash visit 17 Prospero Street, South Murwillumbah, or phone to book an appointment on 0487 762 513

Singhs Family locally grown Bananas

Singhs Family locally grown Bananas

ALL ASIAN INDIAN SPICES

Opp. Railway Station, Murwillumbah

Ph. 6672 6166

for their customers who enjoy the beautiful tastes of Asia.

If you have any questions in relation to Indian spices or cooking, Singhs is happy to help.

The shop is open 7 days a week, so when you want only the freshest local produce available for a healthy diet call on into Singh’s Fresh Fruit and Vegies on the Southside.

89863

Follow 50/56 PROSPERO ST, SOUTH MURWILLUMBAH

us for coming

Instagram:

Footy

Roosters really bad?

Probably a bit of both but the erratic nature of the Roosters season is a concern as it’s very ‘unroosterlike’.

The Tigers seemed to have turned a corner and held the high flying Rabbits to 8 points for 70 odd minutes, but the form of Latrell is just too good at the moment.

The Cows went back to back for the first time this season and it might spell the end for Hook.

w i t h Quinny

CRACKING WEEKEND of footy and the big guns and superstars are really starting to flex their muscles ahead of origin selection.

The Broncos v Melbourne game was a beauty and proves why the Storm are just so good each year.

The Broncos are a genuine title threat and although beaten, losing Reynolds so early and playing 50 minutes with 12 men makes it impossible to win.

I’ve still got no idea about the hip drop and how Carrigan ends up in the bin from that so I’ll let that one go.

Were the Panthers really good or were the

The fact Bellamy has committed for yet another season at Melbourne indicates to me the Dragons might go hard for former hard man Jason Ryles as the coach.

He played for the club, has done an apprenticeship under Bellyache, Robinson as well as a stint in English Rugby with Eddie Jones and might have the hard edge that’s needed.

Craig going again might mean Billy stays at Origin coach for a bit longer, but then again he might not want to coach an NRL side either.

The team on a run at the moment are the Raiders and they exposed some problems for Parramatta.

The Eels given their roster amazingly sit 14th on the ladder at almost half way, they are going to need some sort of run through Origin.

Geez it’s tough being a Titans fan.

The opening 10 mins of this game was simply horrendous from both teams.

Ponga had been challenged about his Origin spot but gee he turned in some sort of performance to dismantle the Titans on his own, he is genuinely one of the sports superstars.

The NRRRL is rolling along and the Jets are flying high, although without mercurial halfback Harry Fitzhugh they only scrapped home thanks to a Tyson Donnelly try late in the piece.

Luke Douglas has done a great job getting the Magpies up and going again.

Cudgen got the cash in the local derby against Raiders and the young Mustangs managed another much needed victory against Marist Brothers.

Mullumbimby recorded another victory and are going along nicely.

The NRL Rise program for the young girls 13’s - 16’s has gone live to nominate and apply for this program.

It is a wonderful opportunity to allow the ladies to continue on their pathway to the NRLW.

The Titans are also hosting a 9’s tournament at Mullumbimby on Thursday.

See you at the footy.

Quinny

The Broncos v Storm game was a cracker! Image by NRL

BEYOND THE BRONCOS: Students were excited to meet some of their sporting heroes recently

Special visitors in town

By Jonathon Howard

STUDENTS FROM Tweed River High received a special visit from some of the country’s sporting elite on Friday, May 5.

Australian sporting superstars are inspiring Tweed students to move from the sidelines to become the next generation of Indigenous leaders, all thanks to the fast-growing Beyond the Broncos Girls Academy.

Australian sporting legends and Beyond the Broncos Ambassadors Beryl Friday and Justin Hodges dropped into the school to meet with 44 female students enrolled in this year’s program.

Principal Leisa Conroy said the program was

designed to link cultural identity with academic achievement.

“This initiative of the Brisbane Broncos is designed to inspire and assist with educational opportunities for Indigenous girls,” she said.

“We welcomed the visit and the students were excited to meet some of their heroes in sport.”

Since the program launched in Northern NSW in 2016, attendance rates for Indigenous girls in the program increased by 5.8 per cent to 90.2 per cent attendance.

“This highlights the positive impact the Broncos Girls Academy is having on students,” Ms Conroy said.

NORTHERN RIVERS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA PROUDLY PRESENTS

WinterDreamsWinterDreams

SPECIAL CONCERT BY NRSO ENSEMBLE WITH AFTERNOON TEA

Frederic Chopin - Two Nocturnes, Op. 62

Pianist - Jonah Patuto

Pianist - Jonah Patuto

Exploring nature with Stokers Siding School

By Madeleine Murray

THE WEEKLY was invited to visit the delightful Stokers Siding Primary School on a sunny Thursday morning last week, to take part in the Nature Explorers Class.

Rod Hollis, who has been at the school for 25 years, created the course, which the students love and is teaching some great lessons about nature.

The ten students from years 3 to 6 walked in single file along the left-hand side of the rail trail path until we reached ‘base camp’. The sloping wooded area had varied trees, and a small sitting space with an overhead structure built by the kids.

Stokers Siding School, established in 1917, has 30 students from kindergarten to Year 6.

“We come out all year round, across the four seasons, in all types of weather,” Rod told The Weekly.

“If it were raining today we’d sling the tarpaulin over so we could keep investigating and exploring.”

At the beginning of the session, the kids all sat on the log benches. Rod told them to close their eyes and be quiet for a minute, then asked what they heard.

Someone heard the wind in the leaves, someone else heard a bird far away.

“I heard like some sort of, like, Charlie breathing,” one boy said.

Then Rod asked them to look around and tell

us what they saw.

“Tree sap,” a boy said.

“I saw a cow and a bird over there,” someone said.

“I noticed there were a lot more ferns than last time,” a girl said.

“When I looked between the leaves, I noticed a cloud that was perfectly shaped,” a boy said.

After the listening and looking exercise, the students were free to pursue other activities. Some explored, some built shelters, others mined for gold in the side of the hill with their tools.

They have a little ‘shop’ where they make things from natural materials and sell their trinkets for leaf, rock and stick currency.

They make pretend banana smoothies. “One of my favourites,” Rod said.

“There is lots of imagining and being creative in this space which is really cool,” said Rod, who is as enthusiastic as the kids.

“Here the kids get to guide and direct their own learning and do their own exploring.

“It encourages them to be creative, think critically, solve problems, and work as a team, building those collaborative skills.

“This space is child-centred, they are directing their own learning, obviously developing their love for nature.

“That underpins the whole program. We want our kids to be the caretakers of the environment.”

Date: Sunday 4th June 2023

Time: 2.30pm

Venue: Tweed Heads Civic Centre, Brett Street, Tweed Heads NSW

Tickets:

Adults $50 I Concession $45

Students $20 I Children 18 years & under, free of charge (when accompanied by an adult)

Tickets can be purchased at: ww w.nrso.com.au or at Murwillumbah Music 02 6672 5404 (credit card facility)

Tickets also available at the door if not sold out (cash or credit card)

Franz Schubert - The Trout Quintet in A Major D667 89797

Enquiries 0478 012 324

NORTHERN RIVERS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA ww w.nrso.com.au

NATURE IS FUN: The year 3 to 6 students at base camp

camp

Teacher Rod Hollis created and

LIVE MUSIC

Join the fashion fun

DRESS TO impress in your favourite threads for the latest Museum Up Late event inspired by the Tweed Regional Museum’s exciting exhibition, Social Fabric.

Whether it be chic, classic, grunge or your very own unique creation, you are invited to enjoy a free night of fun, fashion, performances and fabulous people on Saturday, May 27, at the GLAM: Red Carpet Party from 4pm to 7.30pm. The Social Fabric exhibition displays some of the Museum’s never-before-seen clothing collection. Each garment tells a surprising and unexpected story. Drag queen gowns, mermaid costumes, military uniforms and lacy corsets all chronicle the social history of fashion and dressmaking in the Tweed.

From the luxurious to the humble, these textiles weave together the Tweed’s social fabric, telling stories of who we are, and how they have shaped our identity.

On the night, get a glam-up at the Salon, the Museum’s in-house hair and make-up haus, before you get snapped by the paparazzi team from The Wild Booth Co as you strut your stuff down the red carpet.

Experience dazzling performances by the outrageous Milena Missi of Queens From Kingscliff — and speak with local fashion designers

such as Jason King from JPK Artistry, Kristelle English of Hastings Handmade and Elke Gill who will be modelling their wares.

Make sure to immerse yourself in the playful art of yarn bombing by graffitiing the iconic Robey & Co steam engine with colourful threads. Then, call upon your inner designer and create your own bling range of interesting materials at the Wearable Art Station.

Kids can pick up their own doll-shaped Social Fabric exhibition guide and journey through the show with their museum mate Storm. After gathering inspiration, they can visit the Dressing Room play space and style their own paper doll with cut-out clothes — and don’t forget they will need to give them a hairstyle and a face!

Try on clothes and accessories in the Dressing Room, dance to tunes by the resident DJ — all the while enjoying some light nibbles and drinks that will be available for purchase courtesy of the team from The Gin Experience.

This is a free, all ages event. For more information or to book a free ticket, visit Eventbrite. The Museum would like to extend a huge thanks to event partners, Queens From Kingscliff entertainment service, The Wild Booth Co, The Gin Experience and Inglot Cosmetics Tweed Heads.

Enjoy some blues

By Jonathon Howard

IN THE world of blues music, there are few groups that can capture the attention of audiences quite like the Trombone Kellie Gang, who are set to light up the stage at Condong Bowling Club on Friday, May 28.

This straight talking, hip swinging group could get the tiredest feet moving, and everyone’s invited for a night of blues.

Fronted by the infamous Trombone Kellie, whose gutsy vocal delivery and roots blues trombone playing feature alongside some ripping slide guitar by Scrubby Pete topped off with the wonderful sounds of Martha Baartz on saxophone.

They are backed by one of the tightest professional rhythm sections around, being Justin Pfeiffer on upright bass and Toby Baron on drums.

“They have the perfect recipe for raucous street blues, made for the people and delivered with relish,” said Tweed Valley Jazz and Blues, who are hosting the Gang alongside The Early Birds.

“Old school authentic, featuring exiting and fresh takes on delta swing and country blues styles.

“Trombone Kellie is a delightful and exciting new entertainer, with a totally captivating and enthralling stage presence.

“Kellie has an absolutely amazing capacity,

switching from singing to blowing her trombone and back again without a break.

“She has arguably one of the most powerful female voices in the region today.”

To find out more, or to book your spot, please phone 0432 914 539.

Trombone Kellie Gang will light up the Condong Bowling Club

A plan C to climate change

The Regent Spotlight

WE HAVE long heard the slogan that there is no Plan B, but there is a Plan C – the organisation presenting a series of panel-led community forums on how to live amidst the climate crisis.

The Tweed region knows this territory; many are still reeling from recent floods.

Facing Up at The Regent is a chance to hear leading changemakers discuss tough issues and make your voices heard as a community moving forward after successive disasters.

Founder and CEO of Plan C, Jean Renouf, experienced in emergency relief projects in disaster and war-affected countries, including Afghanistan, Congo, and Haiti, said that the forums provide a space for meaningful con -

versations on the reality of an extreme and changing climate.

“I’m driven by a deep need to prepare communities for what lies ahead and to help protect from humanitarian crises,” Renouf said.

“We aim to enhance our capacity to respond to future disasters and address the ensuing mental health impacts.”

The undeniable presence of the climate crisis ignites the forum’s urgency.

The line-up of inspiring speakers includes Cate McQuillen - creator of Dirtgirlworld; Tim Hollo - author, musician, and founder of Green Music Australia; and Krysta McMah from the Australian Youth Climate Coalition, in a panel discussion at The Regent on Wednesday, May 24.

Important films and discussions feature at The Regent this fortnight, exploring the future of the Australian culture, its land and vast environment.

FACING UP welcomes the community to discuss with an expert panel ‘How we live in the midst of a climate crisis’ on Wed 24 May, and the poignant, LUKU NGÄRRA: THE LAW OF THE LAND on Sat 27 May presents a special Q&A and performance by singer/songwriter Shellie Morris.

WATANDAR: MY COUNTRYMAN on Tue 6 June will be presented by the Uki Refugee Project and also features star and filmmaker Q&A.

Don’t miss final screenings of THE GIANTS, Bob Brown’s story of the great forests. Rolf De Heer’s latest epic THE SURVIVAL OF KINDNESS is set in the outback, as is LIMBO starring Simon Baker. Families can enter the magical world of THE SECRET KINGDOM, and JOHN FARNHAM: FINDING THE VOICE celebrates the previously unseen and the unknown in a documentary about one our greatest singers.

This month’s French film is the lauded MASQUERADE.

The BALCONY SESSIONS feature soul songstress MOHINI COX and guests every Friday night from 5.30pm. On Sat 20 May is the mercurial and multitalented Bill Jacobi, and local talent new to the stage on Sat 27 May, Sam Lily brings his evocative tunes to serenade the sunset.

Khanthaly’s Kitchen features delicious dinners and snacks every Fri and Sat!

BOOK TICKETS NOW FOR:

Felicity Lawless and Black Rabbit George - Sat 26 May

Tim Freedman and Ollie Thorpe - Sun 11 June

VISIT OUR WEBSITE for tickets and new show announcements!

Celebrate Margaret Olley

THIS YEAR the Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre invites residents and visitors to join the celebrations of the 100th anniversary of Margaret Olley’s birthday in June.

Famously Australia’s most significant painter of still life, Olley was a generous and energetic contributor to the art world as an artist, mentor, advocate and philanthropist.

This centenary celebration is an opportunity to give something back to commemorate her legacy now and into the future.

“We are thrilled to be presenting three exclusive exhibitions in the Margaret Olley Art Centre in 2023,” Gallery Director Susi Muddiman said.

“Olley wanted to be remembered first and foremost as a painter and so this is all about celebrating Olley through her greatest legacy — her art.”

Each exhibition is complemented by a dy -

namic program of events including masterclass painting workshops for adults, free school holiday workshops for children and the annual Community Picnic and Artist Paint Out for the whole family.

“Visitors to the current exhibition are invited to honour Olley’s enormous capacity for friendship by selecting a postcard featuring one of her paintings and mailing it to a friend, from the Gallery for free,” Ms Muddiman said.

On June 24, Olley’s actual birthday, the Tweed Regional Gallery Foundation Ltd will host a fundraising dinner in Olley’s honour to raise money to purchase three paintings by Margaret Olley to gift to the Tweed Regional Gallery for future generations to enjoy.

For all activity and event details, including how you can contribute to the Acquisition Appeal, visit gallery.tweed.nsw.gov.au

SAT 20 MAY

SUN 21 MAY

Limbo 7:05PM

WED 24 MAY

Facing Up (Symposium) 5:30PM

Christopher Shain. Margaret Olley, January 5, 2006, in the Tweed Regional Gallery collection, Purchased through the Tweed Regional Gallery Donations Fund, 2021

JUNIOR CROSSWORD

Across

1 Amount Santa carries (7)

5 It has a chilling effect (4,4)

9 Lateral (8)

13 Extempore (9)

14 Distinct area (6)

16 Most unremarkable (8)

17 Derision (7)

18 Of a doctor, washes hands and arms thoroughly before operation (6,2)

19 One who shares accomodation (8)

20 Relating to European orchestral music (9)

25 Bird of prey (9,6)

26 Gifted (8)

27 London section (4,3)

29 James Joyce book (7)

32 Pledging money to a specific purpose (13)

36 Handle (8) 40 Moxie (5) 41 Group of islands (11) 42 Wild ox (5)

43 Boreal (8)

46 Cannot be exchanged (13)

49 Surgical instrument (7)

52 Turndown (7)

55 Extravagant (8)

WORDSEARCH: KIDS

56 Philosophy (6,2,7)

58 Taker of blame (9)

63 Expat citizens vote in - (8)

64 Append notes (8)

65 Toasted bread garnish (7)

66 Checkout choice (5,3)

67 Group of seven (6)

70 Print in slanted type (9)

71 Fidgety (8)

72 Casino city (3,5)

73 Vanity (7)

Down

1 Earthquake-related (7)

2 Online test to tell computers and humans apart (7)

3 Blooms (7)

4 Not really sing (3-4)

5 Advise (7)

6 Payable (3)

7 Capture (3)

8 Worked up a sweat (9)

9 Future pension fund (14)

10 Insect whose young are named nymphs (9)

11 They generate power to grind flour (9)

12 Rice dish (7)

14 Second thoughts (7)

15 Restaurant with entertainment (7)

21 Ballet move (4)

Can be Reversed or Diagonal

22 Barbecue rod (6)

23 Junior doctor (6)

24 President’s assistant

(7)

30 Official seal (6)

31 Chip off the old block (6)

33 Luxury boat (5) 34 Brays (3-4) 35 Creep (5) 37 Loathsome (6) 38 Dog house (6) 39 A source of fun

44 Get back (6) 45 Covering up (6) 47 Heroic (4) 48 Information (4) 50 Reparations (9) 51 Pleasant to taste (9)

52 Theatre practice (9) 53 Sheepskin slipper

Minimum word length 4 letters. No plurals allowed. Every word must contain the centre letter (once only).

20 words: Good 30 words: Very good 41 words: Excellent

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS

TEST YOUR TWEED SHIRE KNOWLEDGE

1. What is the daily target for water usage in the Tweed Shire Council?

2. How many station/rest stops are there along the Northern Rivers Rail Trail?

3. In which year was the Murwillumbah olympic size swimming pool constructed?

4. How long is the Northern Rivers Rail Trail between Murwillumbah and Crabbes Creek?

5. W hen was the Chillingham General Store first established?

THE WEEKLY’S LOOK AT LIFE WITH PAUL DORIN

HIDDEN

9 Letter Puzzle: bash, bath, bathe, bathes, bathos, baths, BOATHOUSE,

PET OF THE WEEK

LAST WEEK’S SUDOKU 1. 160L per person, 2. Seven, 3. 1962, 4. 24km 5. 1922 Marlow

Foster Dog 1645 $600

Mastiff x D.O.B. 01/01/2022

Desexed Male

M/C # 991003001704152

Acquired: 24/08/2022

Marlow came to Friends of the Pound from the pound with his sister and parents in very poor condition. As you can see from his photo this handsome boy is now fit and healthy and ready to go to his new family.

For more information contact Yvette on 0421 831 128 or complete our online adoption expression of interest. https:// friendsofthepound.com/adoptionexpression-of-interest/

G&G Property Maintenance

G&G PROPERTY

Maintenance is owned and operated by passionate Tweed Shire locals Cody Galea and Jerami Grassi.

The pair have been servicing Murwillumbah and surrounds for the past four years, formerly as CG Mowing.

“While we are a young business, we come eager and with a wealth of experience,”

Cody said.

Cody has refined his skills in the industry over the years and undertakes the hands-on role in the business as the chief property guru.

Jerami manages the back

0492 184 023

FEATURED BUSINESS 89816

passionate about furthering the economy and supporting local job growth.

“We plan to grow the business over the coming years and hope to become a trusted name locally,” they said.

end of the business, having managed a successful family business in the same industry for several years.

“In this time, we have happily serviced both residential and

commercial clients, covering lawn care, hedge trimming, weeding, pressure washing, and much more!” Jerami said.

As Tweed Shire locals with young families, the pair are

“We would like to offer a 10 per cent discount if this advertisement in Tweed Valley Weekly is mentioned. “We look forward to being your local, trusted, property maintenance gurus.”

To find out more please phone Cody or Jerami on 0492 184 023.

Tweed Valley

Positions Vacant

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

DRIVER National Transport & Logistics company looking for experienced HC or MC drivers at Condong Broadwater or Harwood Sugar Mill sites. Excellent seasonal pay & conditions. Send resume to Wendy.Keel@sctlogistics.com.au.

RTO 91694

White Card Engraving

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

Legal Notice

PUBLIC NOTICE OF PEOPLE, TACIT ACCEPTANCE

Felicia Gunhild Engstrom of Tweed Heads West, New South commerce, and is the irrefutable Holder in Due Course of protected Trade Names Felicia Gunhild Engstrom, FELICIA GUNHILD all relevant variations of Naming Conventions since unrebutted jurisdiction of Terra Australis also known as the Commonwealth 2022, Public Recording Number RPP4463900051001677183605. ties with the occupying corporate government of Australia any further infringement upon these copyright protected misaddressing Felicia Gunhild Engstrom in fraudulent debased

THINKING OF SELLING

For Sale

FABRIC AND ACCESSORIES for sale, a wide variety to choose from. Ph: 0409 444 094

CLUB CAR GOLF CART Good condition. 2017 model, 2021 battery. Wet weather clubs cover & esky. Shelves above windscreen. Murwillumbah area, $5,000. Ph: 0490 760 211

Positions Vacant

DRIVER NEEDED Eungella area. Suit student or retired person 3-6 hours $25 hour negotiable. Ph: 0403 030 832

SEEKING a positively minded, dog loving, flexible female to accompany a visually impaired, self assured, x-professional female on social and shopping excursions. Preferably a coastal dweller with her own vehicle who enjoys cooking and beach walks and who is familiar with an iPad and iPhone. Call 0404 225 819

NEW GRANNY FLAT never been set up, opens to 6x6 building. Built by Same Day Granny Flats. I’m in Tweed area. $29,500 Contact Peter 0419 702 409

Garage Sale

MOVING HOUSE SALE 8am, Saturday 20th May. 15 Sovereign Way, Murwillumbah. Furniture, books, vintage & designer clothes, jewellery, DVDs, single beds & Much More!

House Sitting

HOUSE SITTER Responsible, mature professional, single person, can care for pets, 5 years’ experience on the gold coast and tweed area. Have references, immediate start, phone 0411 201 316

Lost

LOST 25th April Anzac Day dawn service at Tweed Heads. Set of miniature RAAS medals World War II. Please phone Tweed RSL- Belinda07 5536 1164

Massage

Massage

Tweed Heads South Wed-Thurs, Sat, Sun Ph 0473 512 021

www.goodhandsmassages.com

Piano Tuner/Removal

Do you need to Tune a piano? Move a Piano? Call Jed the Piano man Cheapest and the best. 35 years in the biz

Complimentary Piano tune

With every removal

Also offering the best piano lessons in town (07) 5590 5778 0448 985 778

Positions Vacant

FARMER NEEDS HELP

Office work, filing, typing & simple calculations. Ph: 0467 905 917

MECHANIC WANTED Are you semi-retired and or looking or work? Would like to work 2 to 3 days a week? A small business needing a maintenance man to keep our vehicles running. Interested? Call us on 0411 507 885 for more details.

WANTED CASUAL HOUSE CLEANER, NATURAL PRODUCTS PROVIDED, MURWILLUMBAH AREA. PLEASE CALL 0467 848 819

MATURE LADY PREFERRED Required for mornings, domestic assistance and food prep. 2 days per week, 1.5 hrs per day, for elderly gentleman, private home, good conditions, Tweed area off Kennedy Drive. Phone 0424 184 949

TRUCK DRIVERS National Transport & Logistics company requires HC/MC seasonal cane truck drivers at Condong, Broadwater & Harwood Sugar Mill sites. Competitive pay rates. Send Resumé/CV to Wendy.Keel@sctlogistics.com.au or call 0409 568 795 during office hrs.

CASUAL BUS DRIVER POSITION

J&B Buses Murwillumbah. Variable hours, local charter work, suit local. Must hold a MR license, NSW driver authority. Current working with children check. Phone John: 0427 453 091

TWEED HEADS COOLANGATTA TAXIS

NIGHT DRIVERS REQUIRED. All training provided join our friendly team right now.

Phone 07 5536 3371

DENTAL ASSISTANT Tweed heads south, 2 days a week. Office and chair side duties, Dental or Medical or Health experience required. Reply to gavannmit@bigpond.com

Public Notice

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

For lease – Café & kiosk at the new Tweed Valley Hospital. Contact Jillian Cressey 0412 940 088 (jillian@cresseyproperty.com.au). Closing date for the Expression of Interest – 25th May, 2023

Scrap Metal Removal

PICK ME UP SCRAP METAL We collect white goods, heavy gauge, steel light gauge, steel farm machinery, trucks, cars, all metals copper lead batteries. You call we collect!

Contact Wayne Leveridge on 0434 431 461

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

PRIVATE HOUSE rental available on 5.5 acres, Piggabeen. 4 bdrm large country style home, plus 1 bdrm flat (sub letting available). 10 mins to GC Airport. Inspection 20th May, 2023. $1,200 p/w. Contact via email: meredithchapman63@gmail.com

COOLANGATTA Room to rent 200 metres from the beach, Club, shops, fully furnished, cooking facilities, No lease and No bond. Over 50’s from $280 per week. (07) 5599 1089

COOLANGATTA room to rent 200 metres from the beach, Club, shops, fully furnished, cooking facilities, No lease and No bond. Over 50’s from $280 per week. (07) 5536 3233

PAUL MICHAEL FORD

12/03/1952 - 15/05/2023

Best Friend, Soulmate and Husband of Joy. Devoted Father of Jonathan, Michael (dec), Catherine Thurston and Clinton.

Loving Grandfather of Chris, Riley, Mitchell, Georgia, Wyatt, Rolen, Myles, Mykal, Nathan and Great Grandfather of Lamarra & Tarlyn. Loved Brother of Rita and Peter. Great Mate to many.

Family and friends are invited to Paul’s Farewell at the Murwillumbah Showground on Monday 22nd May at 1pm. After the service please stay and have last drinks for Paul. BYO Esky and a small plate to share. No glass please.

Rex Jermanus

Passed away peacefully at home on 11/05/2023

Loving husband of Joan (dec) Beloved mother of Greg, Donna and Leanne Loved grandfather

Family and friend are warmly invited to attend Rex’s funeral service to be held at Tweed Heads Crematorium Chapel 176 Kirkwood Road, Tweed Heads South on Monday 22nd May 2023 at 11:30am TWEED

In loving memory of Johannes Richard ‘John’ Borg Late of North Arm

Passed away peacefully on Wednesday 10th May 2023. Aged 91 Years.

Loved by all that knew him. Cherished by his beloved Spanish Group. He will be sadly missed.

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend Johannes’s Funeral Service to be held at All Souls Anglican Church Bangalow on Friday the 19th May 2023 at 10am.

After the service the cortege will leave for the Tweed Valley Lawn Cemetery, Eviron Road Eviron for the Committal.

BROWN James Donald Ross “Don”

Passed away suddenly but peacefully on 11th May 2023 at his home in Kingscliff.

Aged 94 years.

Beloved husband of Catherine (deceased), Dearly loved dad and father-in-law of Barbara & Terry, Lucy & Laurie, Judy & Lukasz, Peter & Jillian and Alison (deceased), Proud and loving grandad to all his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Reunited with mum

Family and friends are invited to attend a funeral service for Don to be held at the Kingscliff Uniting Church 24 Kingscliff St Kingscliff on Monday 22nd May 2023 at 2.00pm.

Tweed Heads Ph: (07) 5599 1500

John “Flanno” Flanagan

The Family of the late John Flanagan would like to thank Kellie and the staff at McGuiness funerals. For those who attended John’s funeral. For the phone calls, �lowers, cooking and cards. Please accept this as our personal thanks

By Johnathon Howard

BY NOW most residents would have heard about the Northern Rivers Rail Trail.

It’s a 24-kilometre stretch of former train line converted to a bike path that winds its way through the Tweed Valley’s pic turesque countryside and charming towns from Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek.

With so much de bate about the Rail Trail’s development and the subsequent celebration follow ing the trail’s open ing, The Weekly felt compelled to give it a try to find out what all the fuss is about.

The Weekly editor Jonathon Howard and his partner Sarah set out on a rainy Friday morning in mid-April to ride the length of the course and report back to readers.

For full disclosure, the couple hired electric bikes — the easiest option admittedly — via local operator Better By Bike who offer a full pick-up and drop-off service.

Better By Bike has a great range of electric bikes from the tourer to the mountain bike and we paid in full for our experience.

We decided to start our ride at the very beginning at the former Murwillumbah Train Station, now expertly converted into a picnic area and start/ finish point.

The station also has a handy bicycle shop, Murwillumbah Cycles, which offers a great range of bikes for hire, an extensive range of parts, and a coffee shop.

After some stretching to get ready and checking our equipment, we were ready to push off.

Let me start by saying the trail is not any ordinary bike ride. The Rail Trail is an experience that takes the rider away from the busy roads and our busy lives and transports you through some of the most amazing Tweed Valley scenery that you can experience from a bike seat.

However, rider and walk ers must be mindful of one another and remember to be courteous to residents and landholders who live along side the trail, as well as being mindful that there are other users of mixed abilities.

Not everyone wants to travel at full speed in training for a race and not everyone wants to take it at a snail’s pace, so be prepared and polite to achieve the best experience.

Fortunately, as it was raining and a Friday morning, the trail was not busy.

As we pedalled along, we found ourselves surrounded by farming fields, followed by towering trees that rustled in the gentle breeze combined

with a dusting of rain. It did not bother us that the day started mostly wet, as our eagerness to experience the trail overcame the cool wet conditions and we kept warm with every pedal.

Throughout the ride there are changes in the scenery

from a beautiful green canopy of trees, to rainforest, pine trees and open fields — there’s so much to look at and regular stops are warranted.

Invasive weeds along the trail are sadly in abundance and it’s hoped that over time the weeds can be reduced through council works and local initiatives to reintroduce native species.

As we rode further along the trail, we came across a sparkling stream where we paused to take a photo and check out some of the old rail infrastructure which adds to the historic nature of this ride.

We were both overjoyed as we set off once more on our trusty electric bicycles that with just a simple pedal, kick the electric motor into drive and we zoom off.

Whilst there are sealed sections of the trail near major centres, most of the surface is compacted gravel that makes most riding a simple task, but not perfect for thin racing tyres.

We rode through fields of

en to sitting down inside the tunnel for extended periods, which can come as a surprise to the unsuspecting rider.

Best take it slow and stay alert for others in single file.

As our ride grew closer to the end at Crabbes Creek, we were wondering whether the electric bikes had done all the work.

Regardless of how far you go and whether you’re assisted by the latest technology, you will not be disappointed with this journey and in fact you will feel better for making the effort.

We made our way back to Murwillumbah to finish in around 3.5 hours for a complete return trip.

I was quite sure the electric bikes did most of the work, but we felt the experience was not lost on both our backsides and our positive wellbeing afterwards.

I intend on now investing in some good quality bikes for our future rides and look forward to returning to this magical Rail Trail again and again, for there is always more adventure to be had and more wonders to discover in the beautiful Tweed Shire.

Thank you for reading and please send us your experiences on the Rail Trail via email to:

Moloney takes world title

By Jo Kennett

THE TWEED Shire has a new world champion, with Kingscliff boxer Jason Moloney taking out the World Boxing Association (WBO) bantamweight world title in California on Saturday May 13, despite fighting with a broken hand for the majority of the bout.

“The pain is nothing compared to the joy of being world champion,” Jason told the media post-fight.

The Aussie dominated Vincent Astrolabio with one judge scoring the fight a 114-114 draw, but the other two scored it 115-113 and 114 to 112 making it a majority decision to give Moloney the title.

The crowd booed Moloney as he worked over his Filipino rival.

“These boos are actually confirmation Moloney is doing exactly what he’s supposed to be doing,” former professional boxer Andre Ward said in commentary.

“He’s keeping the puncher, the explosive and exciting guy, out of the fight. He’s building up points. That’s not exciting for the fans but it’s getting Moloney closer to his dream of winning his first world title.”

When the drawn card was read out, one ESPN ringside commentator said, “they tried to rob him”, referring to the judge who scored 114114.

Jason said when he heard that score his heart dropped as he and his team believed he had won easily. He said it would have been the end of his career if he had lost.

American broadcaster Joe Tessitore said the Aussie put on “an absolute clinic”.

“It’s so hard to put into words but I feel absolutely incredible,” Jason told The Weekly.

“There’s a huge amount of relief, satisfaction and pride.

“I have been chasing this dream for close to 20 years now.

“After two failed attempts at becoming world

champion, so much hard work and countless sacrifices, I have finally achieved my dream!

“For the rest of my life, I will be known as a world champion.

“I feel grateful to have felt this feeling; an amount of pride and joy that very few people will ever feel in their lives.

“It feels incredible and I hope it inspires others to chase their dreams too!”

The day before the fight Moloney posted on social media, “Weigh in done. Tomorrow night I achieve my lifelong dream! Thank you for all your support.”

Jason had been training in Kingscliff with Angelo Hyder, who led Danny Green to multiple world titles, and Tony Nobbs and he thanked them both after he clinched the title.

Jason thanked Bob Arum the founder of Top Rank Boxing giving him the opportunity to achieve his dream and paid special tribute to his “number one supporter and biggest fan” , his wife Jorja.

“I know how hard this has been but still, nothing has ever been too much,” Jason posted on social media.

“After failing to achieve my dream on two separate heartbreaking occasions, you never once made me feel like we wouldn’t eventually succeed.

“You have wholeheartedly supported me and this dream every single step of the way. “I can never express or put into words how grateful I am to have you.”

Next Saturday, Jason’s twin brother Andrew, who held the WBA super-flyweight title in 2020, takes on Junto Nakatani for the junior bantamweight championship.

Jason with twin brother Andrew who fights for his own world title this weekend. Photo Mikey Williams Top Rank

Multi-million dollar Tweed

By Jo Kennett

THEY MIGHT be beyond the reach of the average punter, but there is no harm in dreaming, and the luxury properties on the Tweed Shire and Coolangatta markets right now are the stuff of big dreams.

Not that long ago it was a huge deal when the median price for a suburb passed a million dollars, but those days are done. Now half the real estate in the shire is that at least — and for good reason.

Climbing up the luxury end of the market there are currently 131 properties listed on realestate.com

for over $2 million, 52 over $3 million and 32 over $4 million.

There are around 12 for sale for over $5 million, including some absolute palaces in the Salt area.

There are a handful over $6 million, including one Nobbys Creek property boasting its own runway and aircraft hangar on the market for $6 million to $6.5 million.

If you are after a bit of beachfront luxury, you can’t go past the penthouse apartment at 3/2 Hill Street, Tweed Heads.

It has some of the best views from the huge balcony on the whole east coast. You can even see Caba!

You can pop out the front and enjoy a quiet uncrowded wave (just kidding) at D-Bah, walk over to the iconic Rainbow Bay Surf Club for a sundowner, or stroll along the Tweed River into beautiful Coolangatta. This place has it all. Location, views, views, location. “I want in Schmithy!”

That’s Justin Schmith, the principal at Schmith Estate Agents, who is selling this spacious three-bedroom threebathroom dream-view penthouse, say no more.

But, if beach life isn’t your thing, you can’t go past Zara Springs, which is on the market with Mana Real Estate, and it’s a delight. Wild food. Koala sanctuary. Fresh springs. Citrus grove. Manuka honey plantation. A lakehouse. A meditation yurt. Sustainable house. Spectacular view, what a dream this one is. You can have it all at this stunning retreat at 351 Zara Springs Road which comes with some pretty great income opportunities and is completely

off-grid.

Marketing manager Simone de Beer says that owners Clare and Vic Cherikoff have been slowly regenerating the 56 hectare (139 acre) property.

This is the private haven of author, documentary maker, and cartoonist Clare.

“One of my favourite activities is to stand-up paddleboard on the lake,” Clare says.

“I glide past the waterlilies and look at the mountains. It’s so tranquil.”

Vic, celebrity chef and the author of Wild Foods, says it’s like

having a native supermarket on his doorstep. The manuka honey plantation provides a cash crop. The yurt is perfect for groups or workshops and Clare says the white cottage and rotunda beside the lake would make an idyllic space for wedding receptions or honeymoons.

These are just some of the stunning properties available in the loveliest shire in the country (okay we are a little biased) and though you might have to be a millionaire to own one, dreaming will always be free.

Penthouse apartment at 2 Hill Street in Tweed Heads has views to die for

The lake at Zara Springs is all yours

Competition

PRIZES FOR EACH CATEGORY PLUS EVERY GARDEN THAT ENTERS GOES IN TO THE DRAW TO WIN THE MAJOR PRIZE!

Meet our special guest, garden guru & ABC Radio ‘Good Gardening’ celebrity Phil Dudman at our exclusive awards event, THURSDAY 19TH OCTOBER 2023, 3PM - 5PM

You don’t have to be a professional gardener or possess a green thumb to enter!

THE CATEGORIES ARE AS FOLLOWS (YOU CAN ENTER UP TO 3 CATEGORIES)

Entries - now open & close 30th of September 2023... Judging dates will be announced early September Visit: www.djstringer.com.au/garden to enter, or scan and email the form below to: reception@djstinger.com.au

1) SMALL SPACE GARDEN – BALCONY, COURTYARD/PATIO

For gardens with balconies , courtyards or patios.

2) GENERAL SIZED GARDEN

All general gardens up to 1000 m2 of land space.

3) LARGE GARDENS & ACREAGE

Gardens larger than 1000 m2 of land space.

4) EDIBLE GARDEN & VEGIE PATCH

Edible gardens including vegie patches.

5) SUSTAINABLE GARDEN Sustainable Gardens/Eco friendly and the use of natural/organic products – no size limit.

6) PRETTY GARDEN We’re looking for pretty flowering gardens in this category big or small.

Or scan the QR Code to enter

7) COMICAL OR QUIRKY GARDEN For that garden that oozes personality & or charm in any shape or form, big or small.

8) SCHOOL GARDEN Edible, sustainable, flowering , students gardens & or just beautifully maintained grounds.

9) BEST WATER FEATURE Special fish pond & or general water feature of any size.

10) BEST MAN CAVE Can be attached or unattached to home, sports bar area / billiard room or workshop but it must represent its owners personality.

11) BEST TENANTS GARDEN Tenants must have been renting the home & maintained all gardens for in excess of 12 months.

12) BEST COMMUNITY GARDEN Community garden with various participant gardeners.

OPEN TO SOUTHERN GC - PALM BEACH TO COOLANGATTA & TWEED TO KINGSCLIFF RESIDENTS

Luxury living at Hundred Hills Estate

66 Castle Field Drive, Murwillumbah

Rare opportunity to secure a coastal block

2 Rangal Road Ocean Shores

2

BEDS BATHS CARS 4 2

Contact Agent Julie-Ann Manahan 0411 081 118

800.9m2

BATHS

Contact Agent Julie-Ann Manahan 0411 081 118

Land in sought-after Altitude Estate

2 Kosciuszko Street, Terranora

653m2

Contact Agent

Julie-Ann Manahan 0411 081 118 jam@manare.au

Contact Agent Julie-Ann Manahan 0411 081 118

Zara Springs is a true patch of paradise

351 Zara Road, Zara

BEDS BATHS CARS 3 2

Contact Agent

Julie-Ann Manahan 0411 081 118 jam@manare.au

Contact Agent Julie-Ann Manahan 0411 081 118

Your Northern Rivers & Tweed Real Estate Agency manare.au hello@manare.au (02) 6680-5000

4 89912

A little bit of

Brand new family home with a pool

BEDS BATHS CARS 3 2

Contact Agent

1

Julie-Ann Manahan 0411 081 118

Reach out to Julie - Ann if you would like a genuine, result - driven sales professional who is passionate about getting you the best outcome for your property.

BEDS BATHS CARS 4 2

Contact Agent

2

Julie - Ann Manahan has been working in real estate since the late 1980’s. Together with her partner, Charlie Markham, they bring more than ten decades of combined industry experience to MANA.

Julie-Ann is known for her vibrant and refreshingly honest personality. She prides herself in ‘hearing’ her clients and noting the details so she can develop the best marketing campaign. She believes in quality over quantity to ensure the campaign makes an impact on the crowded real estate platforms.

“We have an in-house marketing team and photographer/ videographer,” said Julie-Ann. “From branding, signage, and social media strategies to cutting-edge media campaigns, our specialised marketing team provides uniquely tailored property marketing.”

Julie-Ann is a Licenced Real Estate Agent, Auctioneer, and Stock & Station Agent with extensive experience in residential, land sales, projects, development and commercial property throughout city, regional and rural areas.

Julie-Ann has been providing property solutions for the Northern Rivers and Tweed Community for nearly 10 years, having relocated from Sydney in 2014.

Your Northern Rivers & Tweed Real Estate Agency

3/1 Yalla Kool Drive, Ocean Shores

Tuscany & a splash of Mexico

Julie - Ann Manahan | Founder

86 Castle Field Drive, Murwillumbah