The Northern Rivers Times News ED279

Councillor wants GM role clarified

By Tim Howard

Clarence Valley councillor Cristie Yager has called for a workshop to clarify the general manager’s statutory role and councillors’ oversight responsibilities, as the fallout from a parliamentary attack on the council continues to reverberate.

She has proposed a Notice of Motion following last week’s extraordinary meeting, called by Mayor Ray Smith to respond to allegations made in NSW Parliament by Greens MLC and local government spokesperson Dr Amanda Cohn.

Dr Cohn told Parliament on October 23 that Clarence Valley Council was beset by dysfunction and poor governance — claims that prompted a fery meeting at Grafton council chambers on November 3, with two councillors walking out, the general manager declaring a confict of interest, and two members of the gallery ejected.

The deputy mayor, Cr Greg Clancy, claimed the meeting was not called correctly under the council’s Code of Meeting Practice, which requires two councillors to sign a request for an extraordinary meeting. He said only the mayor had signed for this meeting, a point not disputed during the meeting.

Both he and Cr Lynne Cairns left soon after, citing the meeting as unlawful.

In a media release, Mayor Smith said the meeting was necessary to counter “unsubstantiated allegations” made under parliamentary privilege.

“I’m glad the remaining councillors decided to support this Mayoral Minute,” he said.

“Council takes the allegations seriously, but our focus remains on delivering outcomes for our community.”

Councillors voted 7-2 in favour of the mayor’s motion to seek a Citizen’s Right of Reply to the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly and to lodge a formal complaint with the NSW Parliamentary Ethics Committee.

There is some dispute about the vote as Crs Clancy and Cairns had left the meeting before the vote. They claimed they

had abstained.

In an interview on television news Dr Cohn dismissed the move as misplaced.

“They made a resolution to refer me to a committee that deals with members of the wrong house of parliament and doesn’t even accept referrals from members of the public,” she said.

“I think it speaks volumes about the attitude of this council that they call an extraordinary meeting to talk about me rather than address the really serious governance issues.”

The Minister for Local Government, Ron Hoenig, has since requested further information on the matter.

Cr Yager’s motion seeks to shift the focus back to fundamentals.

It calls for a December workshop, facilitated by an independent governance expert, to review councillors’ responsibilities under the Local Government Act 1993 and the general manager’s functions under sections 334 and 335.

“In light of ongoing and signifcant community concern regarding how the role is being exercised, and the broader perception of declining transparency and accountability within the organisation, it is timely for councillors to collectively review the function and framework of this position,” the motion states.

The call comes amid months of community unease over the council’s handling of issues including the eviction

of long-term caravan park residents, the use of confdential legal advice, and ongoing defamation actions involving councillors and community groups.

While Mayor Smith has sought to portray the latest controversy as a distraction, Cr Yager’s motion suggests that for some councillors, the deeper challenge lies within — restoring public confdence in the leadership and governance of the council.

The extraordinary meeting is the latest fashpoint in a turbulent year for Clarence Valley Council, marked by public criticism over transparency, divisions among councillors, and a series of contentious decisions that have tested community trust.

Police probe death of woman in South Grafton

Cofs Clarence Police have launched an investigation into the death of a woman in a South Grafton home at the weekend.

Late on Sunday morning emergency services responded to

a concern for welfare report to a residence in McNamara Ave.

When they arrived they discovered the body of a woman believed to be in her 30s. As of Monday afternoon she had yet to

be identifed.

Police located the body of the woman inside the house and detectives began an investigation into the circumstances around her death.

Television news reported the woman

had injuries to her neck and her death was being treated as suspicious.

A crime scene has been established, with forensic police examining the site.

Anyone with information about this

incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or Information is managed on a confdential basis. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

Repair to Return Program Extended to Support More Northern Rivers Households

Jef Gibbs

The Minns Labor Government has confrmed the continuation of its successful Repair to Return program, providing essential home repair assistance to foodafected households across the Northern Rivers.

Originally launched in October 2023, the $5 million program has already completed repairs and plumbing works on 359 food-damaged homes, helping vulnerable residents return safely to their properties after the devastating 2022 foods Now, the program will continue until June 2026, thanks to an expanded partnership between the NSW Government, Resilient Lismore, and the not-for-proft donation platform GIVIT, which will fund an additional 80 repair projects across the region.

Partnership Expands Recovery Capacity

Under the extended

program, GIVIT will contribute funds raised through the 2022 NSW Storms and Flooding Appeal, ensuring more households can access critical repair assistance.

The initiative will continue to be operated by Resilient Lismore, a trusted local organisation that has played a leading role in the region’s recovery.

Homeowners across the seven Northern Rivers Local Government Areas can apply directly through Resilient Lismore, visit the Lismore Hub, or be

referred through Recovery Support Services or the NSW Reconstruction Authority

and coordinate licensed trades, labourers, and volunteers to complete the required repairs. Priority

independently.

GIVIT Chief Executive Ofcer Chris Staines said the organisation was proud to continue its long-term support for food-afected residents.

“We’re pleased to enter this partnership with Resilient Lismore and the NSW Reconstruction Authority to support people across the Northern Rivers who are still living in homes that require essential repairs,” Mr Staines said.

“GIVIT remains committed to helping communities recover for as

Minister for Recovery and Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin said the program embodies the best of local collaboration.

“The home repair work supported by local organisations and philanthropists has been one of the most heartening stories to emerge from the 2022 floods,” Minister Saffin said.

“Resilient Lismore has achieved significant outcomes in restoring homes and supporting households across the Northern Rivers. This partnership with GIVIT and the NSW Reconstruction Authority shows the real impact that can be achieved when government and community organisations work together.”

Once applications are received, Resilient Lismore will assess eligibility

is given to those who are fnancially vulnerable or unable to manage repairs

long as it takes.”

Resilient Lismore Executive Director Elly Bird said the program’s extension is a lifeline for many still struggling with post-food repairs.

“The damage to housing across our region in 2022 was widespread, and many residents simply don’t have the fnancial capacity to fx their homes on their own,” Ms Bird said.

“We’re deeply grateful for this continued support from GIVIT and the NSW Government, and thankful for the trust placed in us to deliver this proven, community-driven recovery model.”

Since 2022, GIVIT has facilitated more than $12.3 million in donations and distributed over 800,000 goods and services to food-afected households across northern NSW. How to Apply Residents needing essential repairs can apply online at resilientlismore. org.au/services/repair-toreturn, call 0455 218 692, or visit Resilient Lismore at 215 Keen Street, Lismore

Councillors call for clarity as council tensions

By Tim Howard

Clarence Valley councillors are calling for a reset on governance as the fallout from a parliamentary attack on the council continues.

Councillor Cristie Yager has proposed a workshop to clarify the statutory responsibilities of the council’s general manager and councillors’ oversight role, following last week’s extraordinary meeting called by Mayor Ray Smith.

And in a radio interview last week Cr Lynne Cairns said the mayor had got it wrong in attacking Greens MLC Dr Amanda Cohn rather than deal with the issues she raised.

The meeting aimed to respond to allegations made in NSW Parliament by Dr Cohn, who criticised the council’s governance and transparency.

Lismore

Jef Gibbs

The extraordinary meeting, held at Grafton council chambers, was chaotic: two councillors walked out, the general manager declared a confict of interest, and two members of the public were ejected.

The deputy mayor, Cr Greg Clancy, argued the meeting had not been called correctly under council rules, a claim echoed by Cr

Lynne Cairns, who also left in protest.

Although Cr Yager ultimately voted in favour of the mayor’s motion, she did so only after successfully amending it to remove a call for unconditional support for the general manager. Her proposed notice of motion now reveals that support for the GM among councillors is far from

unanimous.

On Loving Life FM, Cr Cairns said the Mayoral Minute should have asked for an independent investigation into Dr Cohn’s claims, rather than simply labelling them “unsubstantiated.”

She criticised the lack of evidence provided to councillors to support the mayor’s position, warning that the council was continuing to expend public money on avoidable legal disputes.

Cr Cairns also revisited the contentious “Concerns Notice” issued to community group Yamba CAN in 2023.

She said the notice was always a council record, despite the general manager taking it over personally, and argued that subsequent legal action and Freedom of Information requests had been costly and

unnecessary.

“The truth has to prevail,” she said. “Council doesn’t have a strong defamation case, and this matter should have been handled openly and transparently from the start.”

Cr Cairns connected this controversy to broader governance concerns, including the termination of 136 semi-permanent caravan park sites.

She argued the decision bypassed councillor oversight and improperly treated a strategic policy matter as operational, causing stress and disruption for residents.

Amid the tensions, Cr Cairns highlighted the positive side of her role, sharing her involvement in community events from Marine Rescue Iluka-Yamba, the Fire to Flourish disaster recovery celebration, local festivals,

and environmental projects. “Supporting our community is what I really like to do,” she said.

Cr Yager’s motion seeks to shift the focus back to governance fundamentals. The proposed December workshop, facilitated by an independent governance expert, would ensure councillors have a clear understanding of the general manager’s statutory functions and their own obligations under the Local Government Act 1993.

The dual calls from Crs Yager and Cairns refect an ongoing struggle within Clarence Valley Council over transparency, accountability, and community trust—a struggle that shows no signs of abating as the council heads toward the holiday park and NCAT disputes in December

Workers Swim Team Set to Make a Splash at Home

Carnival

The Lismore Memorial Baths will take centre stage on Saturday, November 15, when the Lismore Workers Swim Team (LWST) hosts its highly anticipated Annual Long Course Qualifying Carnival — the fnal chance in the Northern Rivers for swimmers to lock in qualifying times for the Division 1 Championships in Grafton on November 22–23, 2025

For local swimmers, the home carnival represents months of dedication and determination. Many will be hoping to achieve personal bests in front of family and friends, with 12 LWST swimmers already

qualifed for Division 1 and more expected to earn their place at one of the region’s most competitive meets.

“The Lismore Carnival is the last chance to grab those qualifying times, so there’s a great sense of energy and focus,” said Senior Coach Kerrie Seymour. “Our swimmers have worked

incredibly hard this season, and this event lets them show just how far they’ve come. It’s also an exciting opportunity for new swimmers to experience racing for the frst time.”

While Grafton remains the immediate target, LWST is setting its sights even higher — the NSW Country

Championships in Sydney next February. Since the catastrophic 2022 foods, the club hasn’t been able to feld a team at this major state-level meet, but that goal is now within reach.

“We’ve got around eight swimmers who have already qualifed, or are very close,” Kerrie added. “Getting a team back to Sydney would be a powerful moment for both our swimmers and our community — it shows how far we’ve rebuilt and how strong our future looks.”

Since 2022, the Lismore Workers Swim Team has re-established itself as a proud symbol of resilience.

Earlier this year, the club was named a fnalist for Regional Club of the Year at Swimming

NSW’s inaugural Awards, recognising its determination to rebuild membership and community spirit. Hosting this carnival marks another milestone in that ongoing recovery.

“This carnival is about more than just racing,” said Club President Gary Dardengo. “It’s about our community coming together — supporting our kids, celebrating their efort, and showing what’s possible when we keep believing in Lismore. Our swimmers deserve a home carnival to be proud of, and we hope the wider swimming community joins us in Lismore.”

The 2025 Lismore Qualifying Carnival

is proudly sponsored by Summit Swim & Aquatic

“We’re especially proud to support this carnival because so many of the swimmers competing began their journey learning to swim with us,” said Matt George , Owner of Summit Swim & Aquatic. “Seeing them now represent Lismore and chase qualifying times is incredibly rewarding. It shows how local programs and clubs can work together to help young people thrive.”

Race entries are now open via Swim Central. For more information, visit the Lismore Workers Swim Team Facebook page at facebook.com/ lwstswimming.

Wilsons Creek Road Upgrade to Boost Flood Resilience and Community Safety

Jef Gibbs

A key section of Wilsons Creek Road, linking Upper Wilsons Creek and Alidenes Road, is set for a major upgrade aimed at improving food resilience and ensuring safer access for residents in one of the Northern Rivers’ most food-afected valleys.

The project—funded jointly by the Albanese and Minns Governments —will receive more than $10.6 million through the Regional Roads and Transport Recovery Package and Essential Public Asset Restoration Program under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA)

Severely damaged during the 2022 foods, Wilsons Creek Road serves as the only evacuation route for residents of Wilsons Creek, Upper Wilsons Creek, and Huonbrook/ Wanganui. The upgrade

will strengthen this vital link to Mullumbimby and surrounding hinterland communities.

Works and Timeline

The road works include:

l Culvert and drainage upgrades

l Landslip stabilisation and shoulder widening

l Pavement strengthening and resurfacing

Contractors are scheduled to begin road stabilisation and resealing in mid-November, with completion expected by March 2026, weather permitting.

Government and Local Statements

Minister for Emergency Management

Kristy McBain said the project would help ensure communities remain connected during future disasters.

“Accessibility is a

key issue for people in regional areas, especially where there’s only one way in and out,” Minister McBain said.

“The Albanese Government is proud to support this project, which improves access and helps rural and regional communities stay connected during natural disasters.”

Member for Richmond Justine Elliot said the project was another

example of the Federal and NSW Labor Governments’ commitment to building resilient infrastructure across the North Coast.

“I’m proud to deliver more than $10.6 million in joint funding to upgrade Wilsons Creek Road,” Ms Elliot said.

“This funding ensures our region builds back better—making our infrastructure stronger, safer, and more resilient for future weather events.”

NSW Minister for Recovery and Minister for the North Coast Janelle Safn said the works were critical to reconnecting communities.

“Wilsons Creek Road is a vital artery connecting residents to essential services in Mullumbimby,” Ms Safn said.

“It’s great to see these roads being built back better after the devastation of recent mega foods.”

funding and thanked locals for their patience during ongoing recovery works.

“Flood recovery at Wilsons Creek has been progressing well,” Cr Ndiaye said.

“We’re grateful for this funding and for the community’s support as we upgrade about eight kilometres of the road surface.”

Southern Cross University celebrates outstanding local Alumni for 2025

Jef Gibbs

Four remarkable graduates with strong ties to the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers have been recognised in the 2025 Southern Cross University Alumni Impact Awards.

Dr Kellie Wren, Moesha Johnson, Emily Williams and Theresa Mitchell were honoured for their outstanding achievements across healthcare, sport, diplomacy and community leadership.

Dr Kellie Wren, named Southern Cross University (SCU) Alumnus of the Year, is a passionate healthcare leader who blends business strategy with clinical acumen and empathy. Formerly part of the Gold Coast Health executive leadership team, Dr Wren is now Executive Director of Medical Services at Brisbane’s Princess Alexandra Hospital. She credits her Master of Business Administration from Southern Cross University for providing “a whole new toolkit” that

allows her to drive health system innovation and improve patient outcomes.

Moesha Johnson, an Olympic silver medallist and two-time world champion in open-water swimming, was named Young Alumnus of the Year (Joint Winner). A Northern Rivers local and Southern Cross Biomedical Science graduate, Moesha says she will remain part of the SCU community for life.

Emily Williams, also a Young Alumnus of the Year (Joint Winner), grew up in Tweed Heads and, as a proud Torres Strait Islander woman, is now making her mark on the world stage in her role as Consul with the Australian Consulate-General in Nouméa. The Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Social Science graduate turned diplomat has already shown leadership beyond her years in international crisis situations.

Theresa Mitchell, recipient of the Community Impact Award, is the founder of Agape

Outreach Inc. – a Gold Coast and Tweed-based homelessness charity feeding and supporting more than 1,500 people each week. Her studies in Psychological Science at Southern Cross helped her build a sustainable, holistic organisation that restores dignity and hope to those in need. Theresa has also recently been named a nominee for the NSW Local Hero award in the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards.

Other Southern Cross alumni recognised for their impact include: Grant Grierson, winner of the Early Career Award – an education innovator known for igniting curiosity in the classroom. His robotics and STEM programs empower students to create real-world solutions and rediscover the joy of learning.

Professor Sisira Ediriweera, International Alumnus of the Year – a Sri Lankan forestry ecologist whose research and

Find out more about the Far North Coast Regional Water Supply Project

The NSW Government is holding information sessions in November to update local communities across the region on the Far North Coast Regional Water Supply Project.

The sessions are an opportunity to learn more about the project and options being considered to improve long-term water security in the region.

Information session details

There will be 1 online session and a range of drop-in sessions held on the following dates:

Online session:

Wednesday 19 November 2025, from 10.30 am – 12 pm via MS Teams. To register, visit the website.

Drop-in sessions:

Sessions will be held in Tweed Heads, Byron Bay, Ballina, Mullumbimby, Casino, Lismore and Murwillumbah.

• Monday 24 November from 5 pm –7 pm at Tweed Heads South Community Centre, 18 Heffron Street, Tweed Heads

• Tuesday 25 November from 10 am – 12 pm at Murwillumbah Community Centre, 113 Wollumbin Street, Murwillumbah

• Tuesday 25 November from 4 pm – 6 pm at Byron Community Centre, 69 Jonson St, Byron Bay

• Wednesday 26 November from 10 am – 12 pm at Mullumbimby CWA Hall, Cnr Gordon and Tincogan Streets, Mullumbimby

• Wednesday 26 November from 4 pm – 6 pm at Ballina Surf Club, 65 Lighthouse Parade, Ballina

• Thursday 27 November from 10:30 am – 12:30 pm at Lismore Library, 110 Magellan Street, Lismore

• Thursday 27 November from 3:30 pm – 5:30 pm at Casino Community and Cultural Centre, 35 Walker Street, Casino

Registration for drop-in sessions is not required.

To fnd out more, visit water.nsw.gov.au/far-north-coast-regional-watersupply-project

mentorship are nurturing both forests and future scientists. His pioneering work in rainforest ecology, frst developed at Southern Cross, now shapes environmental policy and conservation worldwide.

Southern Cross University

Vice-Chancellor Professor Tyrone Carlin congratulated this year’s outstanding recipients, saying:

“We take great pride in recognising alumni who are creating positive and lasting change across Australia and the world.”

A full list of the 2025 Southern Cross University Alumni Impact Award winners is available at https://www.scu.edu.au/ news/2025/southern-crossuniversity-celebrates-2025alumni-impact-awardwinners/

Southern Cross University Launches New Industry Graduate Certificates to Strengthen Regional Workforces

Jef Gibbs

Southern Cross University (SCU) has announced the launch of four new Industry Graduate Certifcates designed to address critical skills shortages and build workforce capacity across regional Australia.

Commencing in Term 1, 2026, the programs include:

• Graduate Certifcate in Neurodiversity

• Graduate Certifcate in Circular Economy

• Graduate Certifcate in Small Business Leadership

• Graduate Certifcate in Early Childhood Education Leadership

These courses are specifcally designed to equip professionals with leadership, innovation, and systems thinking skills needed to drive sustainable regional growth and respond to emerging industry challenges.

Addressing Regional Skills Gaps

The launch comes as workforce shortages intensify across multiple sectors. Australia’s early childhood education sector alone is forecast to face a 39,000-worker shortfall by 2026 (Productivity Commission, 2024), while circular economy innovation is expected to generate 17,000 new jobs nationally by 2030 (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2023).

SCU’s Pro ViceChancellor (Research & Education Impact)

Ben Roche said the new qualifcations refect the

University’s commitment to co-designing education with business, industry, and community partners.

“These programs demonstrate how Southern Cross University brings together research, teaching and industry collaboration to create qualifcations that deliver real impact,” Mr Roche said.

“It’s not only about what professionals need to learn, but also how they learn. Through co-design, we ensure our courses are academically strong, practical, and directly aligned with regional workforce needs.”

Industry-Created, Professionally Focused

Developed through close collaboration with industry and people with lived experience, the new programs align with current economic trends and regional workforce priorities. They target skill areas identifed by employers as crucial for innovation, leadership, and sustainable growth.

Delivered through the innovative Southern Cross Model, each course is structured for fexibility, enabling professionals to balance study with work and family commitments while applying new knowledge immediately in their workplace.

Program Highlights

• Graduate Certifcate in Neurodiversity: Equips professionals to lead inclusive change through neuroafrmative practice. With up to 20% of Australians identifying as neurodivergent, the

course helps organisations create environments that celebrate neurodiversity, enhance wellbeing, and improve engagement.

• Graduate Certifcate in Circular Economy: Prepares professionals to lead ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) transformation by designing sustainable systems that reduce waste. Australians currently generate 76 million tonnes of waste each year, with only 60% recovered for reuse.

• Graduate Certifcate in Small Business Leadership: Aims to build confdence and capability among leaders of the 2.5 million small businesses across Australia, which employ more than fve million people. The course focuses on strategic growth, fnancial management, and sustainable local development.

• Graduate Certifcate in Early Childhood Education Leadership: Developed in consultation with early education leaders to strengthen management capability, meet regulatory standards, and address workforce sustainability within a rapidly growing sector.

Mr Roche said the programs are part of SCU’s broader strategy to ensure regional education drives regional prosperity

“By aligning our programs with workforce demand, we’re not just training professionals — we’re helping regional industries thrive,” he said.

TRACK UPGRADE POWERS AHEAD FOR CLARENCE VALLEY BMX RIDERS

Clarence Valley’s BMX community is gearing up for a faster, safer future thanks to $19,250 in NSW Government funding to resurface the track at the Clarence Valley BMX Club, Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson has announced.

Mr Williamson said the funding, secured through the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership program, will ensure the Club can continue to support local riders of all ages — while getting ready for a major event on the regional sporting calendar.

“Clarence Valley BMX Club is a fantastic grassroots organisation helping kids and adults stay active, build confdence and be part of a thriving sporting community,” Mr Williamson said.

“With the club set to host a round of the NSW State BMX Series in August 2026, this

upgrade couldn’t come at a better time. I’m thrilled we can help deliver a top-standard facility right here in the Clarence.”

Clarence Valley BMX Club spokesperson Ben Smith said the support was a huge boost for the volunteer-run organisation.

“We’re thrilled to share that we were successful!

Thanks to this grant, we can bring our track up to state-level standard. Our riders will soon be enjoying a fresh new surface — and no doubt setting new PBs in the process,” Mr Smith said.

“This upgrade will ease the workload for our volunteers and allow us to spend more time supporting our riders

we love. A huge thank you to Richie and the NSW Government for making this possible — it truly means a lot to our club.”

Mr Williamson said the project is one of 22 across the Clarence and Richmond Valleys receiving support in the latest round of Community Building

Shining a Light on Our Local Seniors

Jef Gibbs

Member for Ballina Tamara Smith MP is encouraging residents across the region to celebrate the invaluable contributions of older Australians by nominating someone special for the NSW Seniors Festival Local Senior of the Year Awards

These annual awards recognise the remarkable seniors who give their time, skills, and compassion to strengthen local communities across the Ballina electorate.

Celebrating Our Community’s Unsung Heroes

“Our older community members are the quiet heroes who hold so much of our social fabric together,” Ms Smith said.

“We are fortunate to have so many seniors in our local community who are generous with their time, energy and commitment.

From volunteering in local organisations to mentoring younger generations and supporting neighbours, seniors contribute immeasurably to

resilience of our region.”

Ms Smith encouraged locals to take this opportunity to acknowledge those who make a real diference.

“If you know a senior who goes above and beyond — whether through community service, creativity, innovation, or simple acts of care — now is the time to nominate them for this well-deserved recognition.”

Recognising Lifelong Contribution

Formerly known as the NSW Seniors Local Achievement Awards, the Local Senior of the Year Awards shine a light on the diverse ways older people enrich their communities and inspire others.

Nomination forms are available at all MPs’ ofces across New South Wales and must be submitted by Friday, 16 January 2026 Award recipients will be announced during the NSW Seniors Festival 2026, running from 2–15 March 2026 — a statewide celebration of ageing, inclusion, and community

8 Years On: Celebrating Creativity at the Uki Post Office

Robert Heyward

Art Post Uki is marking a remarkable milestone with its 64th exhibition, “8 Years On: The Uki Post Ofce,” celebrating the transformation of one of the Northern Rivers’ most beloved community spaces. The exhibition opens at 6pm on Thursday, November 20, and will run until December 3

It’s been 115 years since Mrs Jessie Kay, Uki’s frst postmistress, sorted mail behind the counters of the original post ofce. One can only imagine her surprise today — paintings on the walls, the scent of freshly roasted cofee in the air, and locals chatting over steaming cups of cappuccino. The building’s modern story began in 2017, when Gary Wall arrived in Uki

with a bold vision that would blend history, art, and hospitality. What was once a quiet post ofce is now a place of creativity, cofee, and connection.

“I fell in love with cofee while studying for my MBA,” Gary said. “With the help of my mentor, Glenn Anthony, I immersed myself in roasting and barista training to produce cofee of the highest quality.”

Gary found his dream home in the old Uki Post Ofce. Working with architect Tony Rose, designer Paul Spear, builder Patrick Carrol, and cabinet maker Tony Ipsen, the space was lovingly transformed using fne timbers and exquisite craftsmanship. The result was Bastion Lane Espresso, a stylish and welcoming venue that quickly became a

social hub for the Uki community.

While some locals were initially cautious about change, most soon embraced the post ofce’s new role. The partnership between Gary and local artist Sue Kinneally then brought an unexpected creative dimension — Art Post Uki, an exhibiting space that now showcases regional talent through

professionally curated six-week exhibitions

Over eight years, Art Post has hosted 64 shows, presenting works from lush landscapes and quirky portraits to abstracts and imaginative student art from local schools. Each exhibition is selected by an independent panel and curated by Sue Kinneally, ensuring diversity

and quality in every presentation.

Adding a splash of character are the witty chalkboard illustrations on the footpath. Once advertising cofee through Madeleine Murray’s black-and-white sketches, they’ve evolved into vibrant, humorous artworks created weekly by acclaimed artist Hobie Porter

“The chalkboards are my way of practicing creative agility,” Hobie said. “It’s spontaneous, fun, and connects me directly with the people of Uki.”

Every Saturday morning, Hobie can be found outside the post ofce creating the next week’s artwork while surrounded by locals enjoying their morning brew.

Today, Bastion Lane Espresso supplies its award-winning beans

to more than a dozen venues across New South Wales and Queensland. Earlier this year, it earned national recognition by winning “Best Latte in Australia” at the Royal Adelaide Cofee Show The “8 Years On” exhibition is a heartfelt celebration of how one small post ofce has evolved into a cornerstone of art, culture, and cofee in Uki and beyond.

Exhibition Details

Opens: Thursday, November 20 at 6pm

Closes: December 3

Venue: Uki Post Ofce

Hours:

l Weekdays – 7am–5pm l Saturday – 7.30am–12.30pm l Sunday – 8am–12.30pm

Curator: Susan Kinneally –suekinneally88@gmail. com.

Labor’s Plan to Cut Regional Speed Limits Sparks Backlash from Kevin Hogan

Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan has slammed a proposal from the Labor Government to lower the default speed limit on regional roads from 100 to 70 kilometres per hour, warning the move would cripple productivity and unfairly target regional Australians.

The plan, outlined in the Government’s Regulatory Impact Statement, argues that reducing speeds will cut fuel consumption and help lower greenhouse gas emissions — part of Labor’s strategy to meet its net zero by 2050 target.

Mr Hogan said the proposal shows how out of touch Labor is with the needs of regional communities.

“Instead of fxing the roads we rely on, Labor’s answer is to slow people down,” Mr Hogan said. “Families, farmers, freight operators and tradies in the bush are being punished to make Labor look good at a climate conference. They’re treating regional Australians as the easy target for their net zero experiments.”

Regional Productivity at Risk

Mr Hogan warned the proposed speed cuts would have major consequences for regional productivity and everyday life.

“This would be a 30 per

2:00pm – 3:30pm Wednesday 26 November 2025 Virtual Meeting (via Teams)

•

The meeting will include:

cent cut in productivity for every farmer, truckie, tradie and small business that depends on these roads,” he said. “It means longer trips, higher fuel bills and higher costs for every household.”

He described the plan as a “bureaucratic quick fx” that fails to recognise how vital regional roads are for work, family life and freight.

“Mums and dads driving kids to school, families heading to sport, freight operators moving our food and fbre — they’ll all pay the price,” Mr Hogan said.

Call for Practical Solutions

The Page MP said instead of imposing slower limits, the

• overview of the health district’s performance, achievements, and strategic priorities

• update on the Grafton Base Hospital redevelopment

• opportunity for the community to ask questions.

Government should focus on upgrading and maintaining regional roads to make travel safer and more efcient.

“If Labor really cared about reducing emissions and improving safety, they’d invest in better road surfaces and regional infrastructure — not slow everyone down,” he said.

The proposal remains under review, but regional representatives across Australia have voiced similar concerns that any sweeping change to rural speed limits would hurt productivity, infate freight costs, and place further strain on families and small businesses.

Diary of a Flood Survivor From Casino to Sydney: Local Hero Jason Whitton Wins Prestigious NSW Health Award

And so we continue down the rocky road of retroftting with the Reconstruction Authority.

We recently got an email asking for some more details as they assess the statement of works our builder has sent them.

A couple of items have been blacklisted from the quote.

The frst is the polishing of the concrete foors in the garage.

Fair enough I suppose, as it will mainly be the cars that live there, although it is attached to the house and when food waters come again, they will need to be cleaned out, the same as all the bottom of the structure.

The second is the installation of plasterboard for the ceilings.

I am not sure if plastering is not included or the use of plasterboard, so have written back to ask for clarifcation.

My neighbour has suggested a few other

a stylish look.

Back on to the subject of the home insurance, I thought I would do a little shop around (as I advised readers last week) and used the services of those little furry critters that tell us to compare the market.

The results came up blank. Zip, nada, zilch, niente.

There were no underwriters willing to take a risk on insuring our property.

I fnd this incredibly concerning, as mortgage holders are required to hold house insurance, but there is not much of a market for those who live in higher risk areas, without paying part of your soul.

We will just have to bite the bullet and pay with one arm later in the month. Little steps.

Jef Gibbs

Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) is celebrating one of its own, with Casino and District Memorial Hospital’s Jason Whitton named a joint winner in the Small Acts of Kindness Award category at the 2025 NSW Health Awards in Sydney.

Mr Whitton, Acting Operational Services Manager at Casino Hospital, was recognised for his compassion, positivity, and willingness to help others. The NSW Health Awards honour individuals and teams who make a remarkable diference to patients, communities, and workplaces across the state.

NNSWLHD Chief Executive Tracey Maisey said Jason’s recognition was richly deserved. “I couldn’t be happier to congratulate Jason on his win,” Ms Maisey said. “He’s renowned for always being available to

lend a helping hand, no matter how big or small the task. His small acts of kindness leave a lasting impact, and we’re so grateful to have him on our team.”

Mr Whitton, who attended the ceremony in Sydney — his frst ever visit to the city — said he was stunned by the honour. “Shocked! I didn’t know

how big the award was. I’m just a security ofcer in a rural hospital trying to do my bit for the hospital and the community,” he said. “Just being nominated was an honour — to win is unreal. I’m very proud.”

Casino Hospital’s Executive Ofcer and Director of Nursing, Sandra Vidler, said staf

were elated by Jason’s achievement.

“Jason truly underestimates the impact he has on our team, patients and visitors by simply being kind, sharing his big smile and being so humble. All of us here at Casino are incredibly proud of him,” she said.

The Small Acts of Kindness Award celebrates individuals who embody NSW Health’s culture of care and compassion. Jason was among 16 winners across the state recognised for excellence and empathy.

NNSWLHD also congratulated Grafton Base Hospital’s Day Stay Joint Replacement team, who were fnalists in the Transforming Patient Experience category for their commitment to improving care for local patients. Jason’s story is a testament to how kindness and community spirit can make a profound impact — from Casino to Sydney and beyond.

ADOPT-A-FAMILY

BE THE REASON SOMEONE SMILES THIS CHRISTMAS

This season, the greatest gift we can give isn’t found in a store — it’s the joy of kindness. When we give presents to children less fortunate, we offer more than toys or treats; we give hope, laughter, and the feeling that they are seen and cared for. Every wrapped gift becomes a message of love, reminding a child that the world holds goodness and generosity. Whether it’s a book, a ball, or something handmade, it carries the warmth of community and compassion. In sharing what we have, we plant seeds of happiness that grow far beyond the holidays — in their hearts and ours. Because when we give with love, we truly receive the magic of Christmas. Drop off presents by the second week of December to your organisation of sponsor.

WILLIAMSON READY TO KEEP FIGHTING FOR CLARENCE AS GRASSROOTS MEMBERS ENDORSE 2027 CANDIDACY

Please call us on 6621 7397 or email hub@nrcg.org.au

Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson has again received the backing of the local Nationals grassroots membership, securing formal endorsement to contest the 2027 State Election as the NSW Nationals Candidate for Clarence.

Around 50 Nationals members from across the Clarence and Richmond Valleys gathered at Brushgrove Hall on Saturday for a meeting of the NSW Nationals Clarence Electorate Council, where the endorsement was confrmed. The meeting was also attended by NSW Nationals State Director, Tory Mencshelyi and State Chairman, Rick Colless, who Mr Williamson said he was pleased could make the trip to the Clarence to take part in the important local process.

Mr Williamson said he was humbled by the strong show of confdence.

“I thank grassroots local Nationals members for again placing their trust in me, and I promise to continue working efectively as part of the NSW Nationals team in the NSW Parliament,” Mr Williamson said.

“It is a privilege to represent the good people of the Clarence and Richmond Valleys. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as the Nationals MP for Clarence, and I look forward to continuing the fght to deliver results for us.”

Mr Williamson said he was proud of what he has achieved since entering Parliament in 2023 — despite being in Opposition — with strong outcomes delivered

alongside community advocates.

“Whether it’s working with communities like Broadwater to secure their new school following the 2022 foods, delivering $1.5 million for essential works at Maclean District Hospital, $4 million for McCaughey Meats in Casino to protect local jobs, or $200,000 for lighting upgrades at Stan Payne Oval in Evans Head — community is always at the heart of my work.”

He said many local communities were still benefting from the record investment in regional infrastructure and services delivered by the NSW Nationals while in Government.

“I’ve fought to ensure the $263.8 million redevelopment of Grafton Base Hospital remains frmly on the table, with construction set to commence this term of government,” he said.

“We’ve also seen the completion of the redeveloped Casino Showground precinct, Treelands Drive Community Centre at Yamba and the brand-new clubhouse for the Grafton Rowing Club, with works underway to revitalise the Maclean Community precinct — all multimillion-dollar projects delivered by The Nationals in Government.”

Mr Williamson reafrmed his commitment to standing up for communities when challenges arise.

“I will continue fghting for local people impacted by decisions made in Sydney — just as I did when the Ulmarra

Ferry was axed — and continuing to support our commercial fshers afected by white spot, our local preschools seeking pay parity, and communities across the electorate impacted by crime.”

Mr Williamson said one of the region’s key ongoing battles is protecting local timber jobs threatened by the proposed Great Koala National Park.

“Our timber workers and their families deserve certainty about their future. I will continue to strongly oppose any plan that shuts down our sustainable timber industry and jeopardises local jobs and local communities,”

Mr Williamson said.

“Timber has supported the Clarence and Richmond Valleys for generations, and I’ll always fght to ensure that hardworking people in our region aren’t left behind.”

Mr Williamson said he was energised by the endorsement and ready to keep delivering for the region.

“We’ve had some strong local wins across the Clarence and Richmond Valleys — and there is more to do. I am ready to keep rolling up my sleeves and working hard for the communities I am proud to represent.”

At the conclusion of the meeting, a special presentation of longservice medals took place to recognise Nationals members who have contributed more than 25 and 40 years of continuous service — with some honoured for over 60 years of proud membership.

Why we have to turn down the heat

Comment

By Tim Howard

As the evidence of climate change becomes impossible to ignore, a new view is gaining traction — that the world must learn to adapt and live with it.

At frst glance, that sounds like realism.

But whether it’s realism or retreat depends entirely on what we mean by “adapt.”

Adaptation without mitigation is a recipe for disaster. Mitigation without adaptation would be equally so.

The two must work together if humanity — and much of the natural world — is to have any hope of managing what lies ahead.

The rate of warming now underway is far faster than anything evolution can handle. Species are already on the move, retreating toward the poles or higher ground in search of cooler refuges.

In Australia, we’re seeing the same pattern in human enterprise: winemakers relocating to Tasmania because the mainland’s heat no longer suits the grape varieties that once thrived there.

Farmers are changing

crops, water supplies are shifting, and coastal planners are weighing how to protect communities from rising seas and surging storms.

Here in the Northern Rivers, we can see the changes up close. Macadamia growers are experimenting with new varieties better suited to hotter, more erratic conditions.

Local councils are redesigning infrastructure to cope with more frequent fooding, while residents in Lismore and Woodburn are still rebuilding from disasters that, not long ago, were described as “once in a century.”

Coastal towns like Yamba, Iluka, Ballina and Evans Head are confronting the dual challenge of storm surges and sea-level rise. None of this is abstract. It’s already here. Heat, not cold, is the greater killer.

It claims far more lives, stresses infrastructure, and pushes emergency services to their limits.

For every headline about a record hot day, there are quiet human tolls — the elderly confned indoors, outdoor workers sufering

Extreme

heatstroke, regional hospitals struggling with power outages and soaring demand.

Some voices now say it’s time to stop fghting and just adapt — as if we can build sea walls and air-conditioners fast enough to outpace a warming planet. That is not realism; it is surrender dressed as pragmatism.

Adaptation is vital, but it will never be enough if we keep adding fuel to the fre. One of the things we have to stop as quickly as possible is digging up fossil fuels and burning them.

Every new coal mine or gas feld is a promise of more destruction down

the track. The technology to replace them already exists — and using it is not only an act of mitigation but a powerful form of adaptation.

Electrifcation of everything — homes, transport, and industry — is both.

As engineer and author Saul Grifth has shown, the cost of switching to all-electric households and renewable generation is signifcant upfront, but the long-term savings are enormous.

Every solar-powered home, every electric vehicle, every heat pump replacing a gas heater cuts emissions and insulates

New Build-to-Rent Homes Underway in East Lismore to Boost A ordable Housing

Jef Gibbs

Construction has begun on 50 new build-to-rent homes in East Lismore , marking a major step toward easing housing pressures and improving rental security across the Northern Rivers.

Delivered by the NSW Government’s property and land developer Landcom, the project is the frst of its kind in the Northern Rivers , introducing a new housing model designed specifcally for long-term renters.

The development, being built by regional

contractor FK Gardner & Sons, will feature a mix of studio, one-, two – and three-bedroom apartments, ofering a wider choice of housing options for the Lismore community. Construction is expected to be completed by late 2026, weather permitting.

More Afordable, More Secure Rentals

The new complex will be conveniently located close to shops, schools, Southern Cross University, parks and key community services. Importantly, 20 per cent

of the homes will be dedicated to afordable housing for people on low and moderate incomes, including essential workers.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said the East Lismore project represents a milestone in regional housing innovation.

“This project will help provide greater housing security and choice for renters in Lismore, delivering 50 new buildto-rent units that bolster both housing supply and diversity,” Mr Scully said.

“As one of the frst buildto-rent projects outside

households from volatile fossil-fuel prices.

It’s climate action that people can take themselves, right now, with benefts that compound over time.

The Northern Rivers is already helping lead that shift. From community batteries in Byron Bay and Brunswick Heads to solar bulk-buy schemes across the Clarence and Richmond valleys, local residents are proving that practical change doesn’t wait for Canberra. Each rooftop solar system adds resilience.

Each electric vehicle charged by home solar panels keeps another tank of petrol in the ground. We are, however, still in the early stages of renewable technology. There will be clunky systems, teething problems, and uneven progress. That’s how every major technological revolution begins.

The point is not to wait until it’s perfect — it’s to make it better by using it, improving it, and investing in it.

The faster we focus on building the clean energy future, the faster the technology will mature and

the benefts will multiply.

Doubt slows progress; determination accelerates it.

The transition also makes us more resilient to the shocks already baked into the system.

Decentralised renewable power can keep communities running during heatwaves and foods when central grids fail.

Battery storage smooths out the peaks. Rooftop solar keeps refrigerators, fans, and communications going when the heat bears down. These are the tools of adaptation in a warming world — not sandbags and wishful thinking.

Realism lies in doing both: cutting emissions with urgency while redesigning our lives, infrastructure, and economies for a climate already changed. That’s not defeat — it’s the sober courage of facing facts. We can’t evolve fast enough, but we can plan fast enough if we choose to. The challenge is steep, but the path is clear. Stop digging. Start building. Electrify everything. Adapt smartly. Mitigate fercely. That’s how we live — and thrive — in the world we’ve made hotter.

a major city, it will test a new housing model for regional areas that could be expanded across NSW.”

The NSW Government will retain ownership of the development once complete, ensuring ongoing stability and afordability for tenants.

Building Back Beter for Lismore

Minister for the North Coast and Member for Lismore Janelle Safn said the project will deliver long-term benefts for the community still recovering from recent natural disasters.

“These 50 new homes will be a lifesaver — beautifully designed apartments in a welllocated area above the food zone,” Ms Safn said.

“Lismore’s resilience is unmatched, but ensuring afordable, food-resilient housing is key to building back better and securing our future.”

Commitment to Regional Growth

Landcom Executive General Manager of Development, Tasha Burrell, said the project showcases the organisation’s commitment to unlocking new housing options for regional NSW.

“Build-to-rent housing is a great example of Landcom’s mission to make homes happen,” she said. “Starting construction on this site brings us one step closer to getting people into secure, quality homes.”

FKG Managing Director Nick Gardner said his company is proud to partner with the NSW

Government and Landcom on the initiative.

“We’re excited to deliver this much-needed accommodation solution for the Northern Rivers,” Mr Gardner said. “We’ll work closely with local suppliers to ensure strong regional participation and a high-quality outcome.” The Minns Labor Government has committed to delivering 400 build-to-rent homes for essential workers in Sydney and 60 on the NSW South Coast, with the East Lismore project expanding the model into regional NSW.

For more information, visit landcom.com.au/ eastlismore

Putting my money where my mouth was — at a 30% discount

By Tim Howard

Readers of The Northern Rivers Times would know

I don’t mind championing the transition away from fossil fuels to renewable energy.

When the Federal Government announced its new battery rebate program on July 1, I was excited. For once, I could put my money where my mouth was — at a 30% discount. The rebate applies to households installing a home battery for the frst time and has sparked a national rush to store solar power for later use.

Three months later more than 100,000 batteries have been installed across Australia, a gratifyingly large number.

In August, we joined the movement by installing a 24kWh Sigenergy battery system paired with 13 kW of solar panels.

The Sigenergy unit has quickly become one of the most popular battery systems in the market, largely because of its fexibility and intelligence.

It’s capable of operating as both an on-grid and of-grid system, and its modular design means capacity can be expanded

as energy needs grow.

Terry Rhook from SolarXs Port Macquarie, who supplied and installed our system, said another advantage of the Sigenergy setup was its ease of installation.

“It’s designed so efciently that we can complete an installation in a solid day, which keeps labour costs and total install prices down,” he said.

“That’s one of the reasons it’s becoming so popular with homeowners.”

We have plans to make even more from the system. When the time comes to

update our car, the plan is to go electric so we can power it from our solar panels.

Ideally, by the time we make the purchase, the car will also have bi-directional charging built in, which will allow us essentially have a big battery in the garage to provide further back up for the house or to supply even more electricity to the grid.

When the time comes it is simply a matter of adding the DC charger block to the existing stack.

In the meantime to make the most of our new system, we also switched to energy

provider Amber, which gives customers direct access to the wholesale electricity market.

That means we can earn higher feed-in tarifs when demand spikes, while the battery protects us from paying more when prices soar.

We installed the Amber Smart App, which controls the Sigenergy system and uses artifcial intelligence to learn our household’s energy patterns.

Over the frst month, it trained itself to optimise earnings based on our usage habits and on factors afecting solar generation and storage.

Our frst Amber bill arrived and we were pleasantly surprised to fnd

ourselves $28.46 in credit — and that included $75 of Federal Government energy assistance.

In the next month exports to the grid reached $74, which should still leave us in credit for the month after we pay the user charge of around $53 and Amber’s fee of $25.

The Smart App gives weekly updates on the system’s performance, which it says has saved us more than $40 a week.

We have also experienced the excitement of our frst wholesale price spike, when the market jumped to more than $21 a kWh for a short period.

The AI system automatically sold stored energy back to the grid,

netting around $10 in a few minutes — which will go toward the next bill.

And it looks like the returns we receive will improve as the weather warms as the mild spring and autumn temperatures don’t encourage high energy use during the day.

We have noticed our solar panels “curtail” production after topping up the battery, producing just enough to power the house or send power to the grid if the feed-in price goes positive.

Once the hot weather kicks in and more people turn on the air conditioning, the price could go positive for most of the day.

For us, this is what the energy transition looks like in practice — clean technology that not only cuts emissions but can also start paying for itself.

The combination of the federal rebate, smart battery systems like the Sigenergy, and real-time energy trading through providers such as Amber means the home energy revolution has well and truly arrived in the Northern Rivers.

SolarXs install systems all over the Mid North Coast. You can fnd out more at https://solaxs.com.au or by phone on: 1300 585 877.

Kempsey Regional Saleyards Reopen After $9.5 Million Upgrade

Ian Rogers

The Kempsey Regional Saleyards are ofcially back in action following a $9.5 million transformation designed to future-proof the Mid North Coast’s livestock sector and strengthen regional resilience.

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, opened the redeveloped facility this week, celebrating its successful food test earlier this year. The project was jointly funded by the Albanese and Minns Labor Governments under the Bushfre Local Economic Recovery Fund, with contributions from the Commonwealth and NSW Governments totalling $9,421,940 and an additional $176,397 from Kempsey Shire Council.

Generating over $30 million annually from around 30,000 head of

cattle, the saleyards are a cornerstone of the region’s economy. The upgrades focus on improving efciency, expanding capacity, and enhancing animal welfare — ensuring the facility remains a vital economic driver for the future.

Key improvements include a new roof over the yards, soft fooring, modern sale ofces and selling arenas, extra cattle yards, upgraded holding pens, and purpose-built truck loading ramps and S-shaped cattle

runs. Additional features such as a kiosk, grandstand, amenities, and landscaping enhance comfort and usability for buyers and vendors.

The upgrades proved their worth during the May 2025 foods when the saleyards became a refuge for more than 1,100 head of cattle. In the aftermath, the site hosted its largest-ever cattle sale, with more than 2,800 animals sold as local producers began to recover.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management

Kristy McBain said the facility’s performance during the foods demonstrated its importance to the local community and economy.

“These improvements will help Kempsey Shire recover faster after future events and continue to support local producers,” she said.

Federal Senator for NSW Tim Ayres added that the redevelopment is both a recovery initiative and an investment in the future.

“These upgrades not only

strengthen the region’s cattle industry but also help attract future investment and create local jobs,” Mr Ayres said.

Minister Moriarty said the project ensures Kempsey remains at the heart of the Mid North Coast’s cattle industry.

“The saleyards are more efcient, resilient, and better equipped to care for animals while supporting larger, smoother sales.

This investment boosts jobs, strengthens the local economy, and keeps our

livestock industry thriving,” she said.

Mayor Kinne Ring of Kempsey Shire Council said the upgrade delivers economic, social, and safety benefts.

“It’s a fantastic outcome for our producers and ensures the saleyards remain a key community hub and vital refuge during natural disasters,” Cr Ring said.

Kempsey Regional Saleyards are owned by Kempsey Shire Council and operated by Kempsey Stock & Land. Director Ian Argue said the response from buyers and sellers has been overwhelmingly positive.

“The new infrastructure improves animal welfare, efciency, and the overall sales experience — putting more money in producers’ pockets and boosting the local economy,” Mr Argue said.

Prepare Together, Stronger Than Ever: New campaign to help Northern Rivers communities prepare for floods

The NSW Government has launched the Prepare Together, Stronger Than Ever campaign to help people in the Northern Rivers prepare for foods. Developed in partnership with the NSW Reconstruction Authority and NSW State Emergency Service (SES) and in consultation with local councils and the community, Prepare

Together, Stronger Than Ever encourages people across the Northern Rivers to take practical steps to prepare for foods – whether that’s getting to know their food risk, understanding the warning levels, making a plan – or looking out for others in the community. The campaign comes as new research shows 80 per cent of Northern

Rivers residents expect future foods, yet one in three still feel unprepared, and almost half have taken no action to prepare for a food. The campaign uses local faces, volunteers and imagery, across a range of channels including press, radio, outdoor, social media and digital.

The new Northern Rivers SES website is designed to help

communities better understand and prepare for fooding. It features a suite of practical tools, including a food risk assessment tool, a household planning tool and a series of catchmentspecifc videos that explain how foods behave in local areas.

The campaign is supported by a suite of community engagement

activities including food ready events, a targeted program for communities living behind a levee in Maclean and Grafton, a schools partnership with Northern Rivers Performing Arts, a digital literacy program run through local libraries and local emergency information signs. This campaign is part of the Northern

Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program, funded by the Australian Government. It honours the lived experience of communities who have rebuilt and continues to invest in stronger, betterprepared neighbourhoods. The campaign will begin on Sunday 9 November. For more information visit ses.nsw.gov.au/ northernrivers

“Leemo has views on just about anything”

THE LITTER TRAY

‘FORTRESS’

PLAN

Oh the horror!! I was most rudely called to account this morning by ‘Mum Jane’. You know I have my OWN bedroom in our house.

(It’s ‘Leemo Cat’ back.)

In my ‘front of house’ room is a ‘Viewing Shelf’ with soft plush covering (for checking out wildlife). My room also houses my essential LITTER TRAY with rugs all around. My tray is snifed checked, emptied & refreshed daily by the old woman. OK, I was maybe a little over zealous with regards to my toileting last night but I was amazingly accurate in spreading the litter & stuf from my tray to as many corners of my bedroom as I could…I was beside myself with pride for my ‘digging & tossing’ skills & jumped back up to my plush viewing shelf to view my work & have a big rest: I slept soundly after all that exertion. Next Morning: I was taking in some early sunshine: then, aaaargh, the voice from Hell emanated loudly.

‘LEEMO, I WISH TO SPEAK WITH YOU. Get in here.’ I slithered in smoothly keeping as low a silhouette as I could hoping my ‘slim’ snake-like body would not be noticed: It WAS!

‘RIGHT Leems..what’s the story with the litter covered ‘Bondi Beach’ or ’Lawrence of Arabia’ sand (litter) dune vision of your bedroom this morning? I don’t generally mind doing the cleaning, removal

and replacement of stuf from your ablutions tray but the contents & litter tossing I faced to-day were simply beyond the pale. Mr Robovac even vroomed in to help, circled & then vroomed straight out again when he saw what lay ahead of him in terms of his cleaning talents: he fgured he wasn’t paid enough! WELL?.’ ‘Errms hmmms, ‘Mum, it’s your fault: You had your ’monthly treat of prawns’ last night. You remove the heads & tails & poo strips, then sit, focus like a starving hyena & gobble them all up like there was no tomorrow & there would never be a prawn available ever again in the world. (a bit like ColesWorth on a public holiday weekend). Your manners on prawn night are abysmal: you even drop bits on the foor. Being a fastidious feline, I snif ‘em out and swallow them to help you in your clean up: BUT, I do feel I sadly had a tummy reaction to your prawn droppings hence my enthusiastic litter-tray disbursement last night: I feel a BIG thank-you is more in order v. your crabby admonishment. Gottit?’ Mum stared at me in disbelief! ‘A THANK-YOU? You’re dreamin Leems. I have a cunning ‘Baldrick’ plan so listen. How much do you have in your money jar?’ (Oooh, how ofensively personal.)

‘I have $27.35: I check it every night…WHY?’ ‘Well, Leems, I fgure an ’enclosed’ space for your litter & feline ablution stuf would be wise. You can enter when the need arises by using a password. Whaddya reckon? A ‘fully enclosed’ Litter Box costs $87. If you put in your $27.35 I’ll pay the $59.65 balance. Pretty nifty huh?’ Aaargh, I was SO inclined toward a scratching & mauling attack on her I felt it wise to head up my safety tree & stay there. ‘Mum, make me a pack of tree-camping treats please’. Nitey, Leemo.

Letters to the Editor

Have your say in The Northern Rivers Times!

We welcome your feedback, opinions, praise, concerns, and reflections on local issues, events, and stories.

Send your letters to: Jeff Gibbs letters@heartlandmedia. com.au

Deadline: Fridays at noon

Please include your name, address, and phone number for verification purposes (not for publication).

The Northern Rivers Times is committed to providing a platform for diverse community voices. The views expressed in letters are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher, editors, or staff. Letters may be edited for length or clarity. Offensive or defamatory content will not be published.

Council Chaos in Clarence

After reading about the explosive Clarence Valley Council meeting, I’m appalled at how much infghting overshadows real work. If our representatives spent half as much time fxing roads as they do trading accusations, we’d be miles ahead. The mayor’s outrage might be justifed, but the community deserves transparency, not tantrums. Time for grownups to run the show.

– S. McKinnon, Maclean

Backing the Mayor’s Stand

Cr Ray Smith had every right to defend his council against unverifed claims. Parliamentary privilege shouldn’t be a free pass for cheap shots. Clarence Valley has worked hard since the foods, and to see its staf smeared publicly is unfair. Good on the mayor for calling it out and standing his ground.

– D. Hartley, Grafton

Advertising That Actually Works! I just wanted to share how impressed I am with

the results of advertising my small business in The Northern Rivers Times. Within a week of my ad running, I had new customers walking through the door saying they’d “seen it in the paper.” That kind of local reach is priceless. The team made the whole process easy, afordable, and professional, and it’s clear the paper is widely read and trusted across the region. I’ll defnitely be booking again—best investment I’ve made in years!

– T. Lawson, Grafton

A Divided Chamber

Hurts Us All

Politics aside, the tone inside Clarence Valley Council is embarrassing. Ratepayers shouldn’t have to watch shouting matches and walkouts. The Greens MLC might’ve overstepped, but so did some councillors. Everyone needs a reset— council should model professionalism, not playground behaviour.

– P. Ingram, Yamba

Tragedy in Ulmarra

The death of Lisa Ward has shaken the Valley. A woman walking her dog shouldn’t die because someone couldn’t control their temper. I hope justice is swift and that her years of police service are remembered with honour. It’s a heartbreaking story that makes you think twice about how fragile life can be.

– L. Hanley, South Grafton

Justice Must Be Done

After reading about Lisa Ward’s alleged murder, I’m sickened. The sheer senselessness of it demands the harshest penalty. The community of Ulmarra is grieving, and no sentence will bring her back, but the courts must send a message that violence—especially against women—will never be tolerated.

– R. Franks, Ulmarra

Gwen Beeson Deserved Better

That old case still haunts Casino. Reading how Gwen’s killer was never convicted left me cold. The detectives did all they could, but it’s tragic the truth slipped away. Maybe today’s technology could fnally solve it. Cold cases deserve fresh eyes and renewed funding. Justice delayed shouldn’t mean justice denied.

– T. Evans, Casino

Honouring Those Who Tried

Samantha Elley’s story on Gwen Beeson reminded me that policing used to rely on pure grit. Detective Sullivan’s dedication deserves recognition. Even without DNA, they chased every clue. It shows how far forensics have come and how deeply country cops cared.

– M. Larkin, Kyogle

Rissoles Fit for Royalty

Whoever writes your recipe page deserves a medal—and maybe a reality show! Those Beef Stroganof Rissoles were a midweek miracle. I made them for my husband, and he hasn’t stopped calling me “Chef Extraordinaire” since. The humour made it even better—I was laughing while I cooked. Comfort food with personality; that’s what we need more of.

– K. Jenkins, Evans Head

Whipped Delight

The Strawberry Vanilla Whip was an absolute dream! So light, creamy, and easy that I felt like a dessert goddess. The cheeky tone in the recipe made me giggle (“don’t beat it like your ex’s new car” – brilliant!). It’s lovely seeing recipes with heart and humour—it turns cooking into fun again. Please keep them coming!

– S. Palmer, Alstonville

Art Saving Lives

NORPA’s “Future Feast in Schools” is one of the best ideas I’ve read in years. Teaching kids disaster readiness through art and drama is genius. After everything this region endured, creativity might be the most healing tool we have. More funding, please!

– C. Young, Broadwater

Stick to Science, Not

Skits

While creative programs are nice, I’d prefer schools focus on practical disaster plans, not performances. Kids need to know where to go and what to do— not act it out on stage. Sometimes resilience means drills, not drama.

– H. Olsen, Wardell

Hogan Gets It Right

Kevin Hogan’s cautious stance on net-zero makes sense. Unrealistic targets destroy jobs and push up

costs. We need practical transitions, not ideology. He’s representing regional interests, not city headlines, and that’s exactly what he’s elected to do.

– B. Matthews, Casino

Festival of Flavours Lismore’s “Eat the Street” sounds deliciously uplifting. After years of struggle, it’s great to see food, music, and community back in the CBD. Kudos to council for prioritising local traders— it’s how recovery tastes.

– E. Walker, Goonellabah

The Funniest Recipe I’ve Ever Read

The Beef Stroganof Rissoles recipe was so funny I read it aloud to my daughter before we even started cooking. It’s rare to see recipes that don’t take themselves too seriously. The food turned out amazing—rich, creamy, and full of favour—but the writing made it unforgettable. You’ve created a new family favourite!

– D. Fielding, Lismore

Focus on Parking Too I love Eat the Street, but every year the parking chaos drives people mad. Maybe a shuttle bus or of-site parking plan would help. The event’s brilliant—let’s just make it easier for families to enjoy without circling blocks.

– J. Collyer, Lismore

Maddi Powell’s Compassion Inspires How refreshing to see a young leader like Maddi Powell recognised for helping women in crisis. The Fletcher Street Cottage work embodies community spirit. Leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about heart. Well done, Maddi.

– A. Finch, Byron Bay

Rotary Auction With Heart

The sports memorabilia auction in Ballina is such a clever fundraiser— nostalgia and generosity in one go. Using collectibles to support domesticviolence awareness is inspired. I’ll be there with my paddle raised high.

– D. Morgan, Ballina

Cooking with a Smile I just wanted to say how much I love your cooking page. The humour, the honesty, the easy steps— everything about it makes me actually want to cook.

The Strawberry Vanilla Whip has now become my “go-to” dessert for visitors. It’s simple but impressive, and the playful writing makes me laugh every time. Keep feeding us these gems!

– R. Webb, Ballina

A Penguin Tale With Heart

The Casino family publishing Paloona the Penguin made me smile. What a lovely way to honour a grandparent’s legacy and keep storytelling alive.

Regional creativity doesn’t need big publishers—just passion.

– S. Harris, Casino

Grafton Brewery’s Return

Seeing the brewery reopen is a win for regional pride.

Locally brewed, locally owned—that’s how to do it. Heritage projects like this remind us that old buildings can have new life. Cheers to that.

– W. Davis, Grafton

No More Council Infghting

Clarence Valley Council needs a mediator, not more motions. The energy wasted on arguments could fx half the potholes in the region. Enough ego—let’s get back to service delivery.

– N. Wells, Iluka

Honouring Lisa Ward

As someone who served with Lisa Ward years ago, I want people to remember her bravery. She dedicated her life to others, only to lose it senselessly. Let’s rename a local park or street in her memory.

– P. Henderson, Yamba

Battery Bus Brilliant! Leemo’s “Battery Bus Tour” idea had me laughing and nodding in

agreement. It’s clever, funny, and actually practical. Elderly residents would love it—and it might just keep hazardous waste out of cupboards. Councils, take note!

– E. Ritchie, Lismore

Where’s Our Battery Collection?

Leemo nailed it again. Battery disposal is a genuine problem for seniors. The humour aside, it highlights a real gap in council services. Let’s turn this fctional bus into a real initiative.

–

D.

Cole, Ballina

‘Leemo Has Views on Just About Anything’ “Mum-Jane” says ageing sucks—and she’s not wrong! Leemo’s latest tale about battery buckets, feline brainstorms, and the grand “Battery Bus” had me in stitches. Underneath the laughs is a real message: helping our elders matters. Keep those whiskered insights coming, Leems!

– F. Harper, Goonellabah

Thank You, Northern Rivers Times

Just wanted to say how much I appreciate the balance of news in this edition—hard stories, hope, humour, and heart. That’s why your paper matters. It keeps the community connected.

– J. Lang, Murwillumbah

Practical Thinking from Hogan

Kevin Hogan deserves credit for keeping his focus where it belongs— on regional families and jobs. He’s not denying climate change; he’s simply insisting on achievable, afordable solutions. Too many city politicians chase slogans without understanding the

impact on small towns and farmers. Hogan’s balanced approach—acknowledging the science but demanding practicality—shows real leadership. He speaks for those of us who don’t want to choose between a clean future and putting food on the table.

– R. Saunders, Byron Bay

Standing Up for Regional Realities

I admire Kevin Hogan for refusing to be swept along by political fashion. He’s been clear from day one: any climate plan must protect local industries and workers. That’s not backtracking—it’s common sense. In a time when people struggle with power bills and fuel costs, his insistence on afordability before ambition is refreshing. The Nationals need more level-headed voices like his.

– M. Greaves, Lismore

A Strong Edition That Speaks for the Region

This week’s Northern Rivers Times reminded me why I still buy a printed paper. It had everything — the tough talk on Clarence Valley Council’s dysfunction, heartfelt reporting on Lisa Ward’s tragedy, and a healthy dose of local sport and humour to balance the heaviness. The mix felt real and grounded, not churned out from some city desk. Leemo’s cheeky kitchen antics made me laugh out loud, while the rural market reports gave real value to readers on the land. You’ve struck the right balance between accountability and community spirit. Keep shining a light on the issues that matter, even when it makes some ofcials uncomfortable — that’s what good journalism does.

— J. Randall, Lismore

Bowls & Croquet Results — Keep Them Coming

Loved the Casino Bowls and Cherry Street Croquet wraps. Names, margins, and next dates are what get people of the couch and onto the green. Could clubs add a “newbie corner” each week with basics and contact times?

P. Waters, Ballina Council Needs Less Blame, More Basics Back to Clarence Valley Council: residents don’t want legal letters and ethics complaints; we want bins collected, potholes flled, and parks mowed. Fight in chambers if you must, but deliver on the street frst.

— F. Yager, Junction Hill

Justice for Lisa, Support for First Responders

Spare a thought for ambos and ofcers who attended Ulmarra. Critical incident debriefs and counselling should be standard, funded, and stigma-free. Community tragedy lands hardest on those who run toward it.

— B. Whitworth, Iluka

AI + Accounting: Train Here, Stay Here Regional frms should partner with TAFE and SCU for paid cadetships: two days in class, three in ofce, AI tools included. Grow talent locally and we won’t lose our best to Brisbane or Sydney.

— L. Ord, Pottsville

Finally, Thanks for the Mix

From recipes to rate-watch, from Rex Kelly to frstgrade cricket, this edition had range. Keep the tough reporting on council, but don’t lose the community heartbeat — it’s why we pick up the paper every Thursday.

— S. Batten, Brunswick Heads

Check on Chekhov…

By Nigel Dawe

“FROM each according to their ability, to each according to their needs” thundered the German economist Karl Marx in 1875. It became a rallying sentiment that was later adopted by Socialists in Russia as they toppled the monarchy in the Communist Revolution of 1917. Five years later the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) was ofcially established: giving rise to one of history’s greatest openair social experiments, and one that would ‘hold up’ until 1991, when it subsequently collapsed, albeit simply imploded on all fronts.

What is fascinating though, is the life story and legacy of the Russian luminary Anton Chekhov, who was arguably the greatest writer of short stories in literary history. If anyone embodied the above ethos of Marx, it was Chekhov; and yet he passed away at the age of 44 in 1904, well over a decade before the red fags of the revolution were unfurled en masse above the turrets of Russia.

Chekhov came from humble beginnings, his abusive father ran a rural grocery store (before going bankrupt) leading the young Chekhov having to pay for his own education to be a physician (by giving private tutoring, submitting short stories to periodicals, as well as the catching and selling of goldfnches). After he graduated in medicine the future Russian literary giant made little money through being a doctor, as he would treat the poor free of charge. You could argue that no one in all of Russian history gave more of themselves “according

to their ability” than Chekhov.

Whilst expounding the highest virtues of literature, virtues that could equally pertain to himself, Chekhov once said, “Bear in mind that writers who are considered immortal or just plain good and who intoxicate us have one very important trait in common: they are going somewhere and call you with them; you sense, not with your mind but with your being, that they have an aim.” And Chekhov’s ‘aim’ was arguably more refned and defning of all that is exceptional, than any literary ‘marksman’ before or since.

As a close confdant of Leo Tolstoy, Chekhov while consummately able to connect with everyday folk, often kept very elite company; he was also great friends with Maxim Gorky, who once said of his dashing writer-doctor friend: “All his life Anton lived the life of the soul, was always himself, inwardly free, and took no notice of what some expected, and others –less delicate – demanded of him... Of a beautiful simplicity himself, he loved all that was simple, real, sincere, and he had a way of his own of making others simple.”

The rarest of all human beings are those that are truly gifted in multiple felds, and yet somehow remain humble, hopeful, and considerate at the same time. As if walking that talk with ease, Chekhov once said, “We should show life neither as it is, nor as it should be, but as we see it in our dreams... Let us learn to appreciate there will be times when the trees will be bare, and look forward to the time when we may pick the fruit.”

Nominate Lismore’s Unsung Heroes for the 2026 Australia Day Awards

Jef Gibbs

Lismore City Council is calling on the community to celebrate its quiet achievers by nominating them for the 2026 Australia Day Awards.

Nominations are now open, with two exciting new categories added this year — Academic Excellence and Contribution to Economic Excellence

The annual awards recognise individuals and groups who give back to the community through volunteering, sporting achievements, environmental work, arts, culture, and other contributions that make Lismore a better place to live.

Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg said the awards provide a valuable opportunity to shine a light on those who tirelessly dedicate their time to helping others.

“One thing that has always stood out to me is that our community is full of quiet unsung heroes,” Mayor Krieg said.

“The Australia Day Awards

give us a chance every year to honour those passionate people who dedicate a large part of their lives to building a stronger, healthier community with no

thought of personal gain.”

The new award categories aim to recognise students and professionals contributing to the city’s educational and economic

success.

“If you have a friend who works hard for a volunteer group, know a student who’s kicking goals, or admire

One thing that has always stood out to me is that our community is full of quiet unsung heroes, Mayor Krieg said.

someone for their service to our community, please nominate them,” Mayor Krieg added.

“It only takes 5–10 minutes to complete an online nomination — so nominate today.”

The 2026 awards will honour outstanding achievements across ten categories:

l Citizen of the Year

l Young Citizen of the Year

l Services in the Community (Individual)

l Services in the Community (Group)

l Sportsperson/Team (Junior)

l Sportsperson/Team (Senior)

l Environment

l Arts/Culture

l Academic Excellence

l Contribution to Economic Excellence

Nominations close Sunday, 30 November 2025. To submit a nomination, visit www.lismore. nsw.gov.au.

Samantha’s Book

Small town with some very big secrets

Title: Liars

Author: James O’Loghlin

Price: $26.99

Publisher: Allen & Unwin

It’s subtitled: Quirky coastal crime from Australia’s funniest former criminal lawyer. It certainly has a few laughs but solving a murder, well, fve in fact, is serious business.

Joe Grifths has returned to his home town of Bullford Point on the Central Coast to start his life afresh.

He’s been in jail and in rehab but now he is clean and local handywoman, Barb Young, has helped by giving him some odd jobs to do.

However, when a young woman he has been seeing turns up dead, Joe becomes the prime suspect.

THEN, Joe turns up dead from a drug overdose and everyone believes he weakened from the stress of being accused of murder, except Barb and his old school friend Seb, who is now the local constable.

Residents in Small NSW Towns Could Be Forced to Leave to Access Voluntary Assisted Dying

Jef Gibbs

A new bill before the NSW Parliament could force elderly residents in small rural towns to leave their communities in their fnal days.

The Voluntary Assisted Dying Amendment (Residential Facilities) Bill 2025, introduced by Liberal MLC Susan Carter, proposes that faithbased aged care providers may refuse to facilitate voluntary assisted dying (VAD). Under the bill, those facilities would instead be required to take “reasonable steps” to transfer residents seeking VAD to another location.

However, many towns across rural and regional NSW have only one aged care home — often faith-based — leaving no alternative for residents who wish to access voluntary assisted dying.

Preliminary analysis by the NSW Greens, in collaboration with Dying with Dignity NSW, has identifed at least 20 such towns. These include Coraki, Mullumbimby, Yamba, Forbes, Muswellbrook, Scone, Holbrook, and Molong. In these communities, residents would have no local option for end-of-life care that aligns with their personal wishes.

Dr Amanda Cohn, Greens MLC and Health Spokesperson, said the proposal disregards the lived experiences of aged care residents.

“Residential aged care facilities are people’s

homes,” Dr Cohn said. “Individuals should be able to access their right to voluntary assisted dying in their own homes. The bill threatens that right simply because of the views held by management.”

She said that forcing people to move to another town for VAD was “cruel, unnecessary and potentially harmful,” especially in regions already facing shortages in aged care capacity.

“Older people and those with terminal illness have the same rights, no matter where they live. Towns like Forbes, Muswellbrook and Coraki only have one facility

NSW Towns with Only Faith-Based Aged Care Facilities

— all faith-based — so residents could be forced out of their homes and communities at the most vulnerable time of their lives.”

The debate has reignited discussion over the balance between institutional beliefs and individual rights in health care. While Uniting NSW.ACT has confrmed it will not prevent residents from accessing VAD, other major faith-based providers, including Catholic Healthcare, BaptistCare, Calvary, and the United Protestant Association, have not made similar commitments.

They know Jo, to keep himself busy had started a podcast to see if HE could solve the murder of another old school friend, Sal, who was strangled seven years ago, by what everyone believes was a serial killer in the Blue Mountains, as two others had also been strangled before her.

What the homicide squad and detectives couldn’t solve, has now been taken up by the unlikely duo of Barb and Seb.

Will they fnd out who murdered everyone? And why?

Having worked out that corporate law wasn’t for him, author James O’Loghlin is better known as a comedian, television and radio host, and author of thirteen books. Liars is James' 13th book, and second novel for adults. His frst novel, Criminals , was published by Echo Publishing in 2022. James lives in Sydney with his wife and three daughters.

You can get a copy of Liars from booktopia. com.au

Local Workshops to Shape the Future of NSW Cattle Tick Program

Jef Gibbs

Farmers and livestock producers across the Northern Rivers are being encouraged to have their say on the NSW Cattle Tick Program, with a series of local workshops and consultation opportunities now open.

Member for Lismore Janelle Safn said the review, led by Independent Biosecurity Commissioner Dr Katherine Clift, is an important step toward

ensuring the long-running program continues to protect the state’s livestock industries efectively.

“The cattle tick program has been operating for more than 100 years in our region, helping protect livestock across north-east NSW up to the Queensland border where ticks are a well-known pest,” Ms Safn said.

“I’ve been working with farmers, vets and agricultural groups to ensure this issue gets the

attention it deserves, and I’m pleased to see it’s a top priority for Dr Clift.”

Community Input Welcomed

Ms Safn said she welcomed the NSW Government’s commitment, through Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty, to make the cattle tick review one of the frst tasks for the new Commissioner.

“This review will help determine the most efective approach for future management of

cattle tick in NSW,” she said.

“It’s vital that farmers and industry voices are heard, as they live with the practical realities of managing tick control every day.”

The community can provide feedback in several ways, including through:

Local workshops: Murwillumbah –Tuesday, 11 November 2025

Kyogle – Wednesday, 12 November 2025

New Campaign Launched to Boost Flood Preparedness Across the Northern Rivers

A new food awareness campaign is being rolled out across the Northern Rivers to help communities prepare for future foods — not just when storms are looming, but during calmer “blue sky” periods when planning is most efective.

The Minns Labor Government, in partnership with the NSW Reconstruction Authority and the NSW State Emergency Service (SES), has launched the Prepare Together, Stronger Than Ever campaign to empower residents to take simple, practical steps to protect their families, homes, and communities.

Developed with local councils and community input, the campaign focuses on building regional resilience through shared knowledge and proactive action.

Community-Led and Locally

Focused

The new initiative comes after research revealed that 89 per cent of Northern Rivers residents expect future foods, yet one in three feel unprepared — and nearly half have taken no steps to get ready.

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said the campaign celebrates the Northern Rivers’ resilience while urging residents to plan ahead.

“The Northern Rivers

knows better than most the devastating impact foods can have, but also the extraordinary strength of its people,” Mr Dib said.

“This campaign is about empowering people to take small, achievable steps that make a big diference when it matters most. Being prepared isn’t about fear — it’s about building confdence and connection in our communities.”

Region-Specifc Tools and Information

For the frst time, residents can access region-specifc food preparedness information in one place, including new videos, local food behaviour explainers, and practical planning tools via ses.nsw.gov.au/ northernrivers

The campaign will appear across press, radio, social media, outdoor, and digital platforms, featuring local voices and imagery that highlight the region’s connection and collective

strength.

It will also be supported by on-the-ground community engagement, including: Catchment videos explaining how foods behave locally.

Place-based toolkits for councils and community groups.

Preparedness days and educational partnerships with local schools and libraries.

A targeted levee program for residents in Maclean and Grafton Big Maps for community workshops.

An expanded Living Memory – Living with the River initiative with Living Lab Northern Rivers

Locally Shaped, Regionally Supported Minister for Recovery and Member for Lismore Janelle Safn said the campaign was built by and for the Northern Rivers community.

“This campaign was shaped by people who’ve lived through foods,

Lismore – Thursday, 13

November 2025

Online survey and written submissions, available via the Commissioner’s website.

Workshop registration details, consultation papers, and submission guidelines are available on the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) website at: � dpi.nsw.gov. au/dpi/biosecurity/ independent-biosecuritycommissioner/adviceon-the-nsw-cattle-tick-

program

Submissions close at 5pm on 27 November 2025

Ms Safn encouraged all local producers, agribusinesses and community members with an interest in animal health and regional biosecurity to take part.

“These workshops are a real opportunity for our region to shape the future of a program that’s been protecting our herds and livelihoods for more than a century,” she said.

rebuilt their lives, and continue to look out for each other,” Ms Safn said.

“It recognises our shared determination to be better prepared next time. When we prepare together, we really are stronger than ever.”

NSW Reconstruction Authority A/Chief Executive Ofcer Kate Meagher said collaboration was key to the campaign’s success.

“We’ve worked closely with councils, schools and community organisations to ensure these resources are relevant, accessible, and grounded in local experience,” she said.

NSW SES Deputy Commissioner Damien Johnston encouraged residents to act now, not later.

“Whether you’ve lived here for decades or just moved in, foods can afect us all. Know your risk, know your warnings, have a plan, and look after each other,” he said.

“Preparedness saves lives — and together, we can make a real diference before the next food arrives.”

The Prepare Together, Stronger Than Ever campaign is part of the Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program, funded by the Australian Government, and was ofcially launch across the region on Sunday, November 9, 2025

Changing Times for the Byron Bay Clocktower

Robert Heyward

After three decades of standing tall near the intersection of Byron and Jonson Streets, the iconic Byron Bay Rotary clocktower will soon be temporarily dismantled to make way for major drainage works.

Byron Shire Council confrmed that the clocktower, commissioned and partially funded by the Byron Bay Rotary Club in the 1990s, will be removed in early 2026 and rebuilt later that year once upgrades to the town’s main drainage line are complete.

“The clocktower was built by the late Ben King, a much-loved local and keen surfer, so it holds enormous sentimental value for the community,” said Claire McGarry, Place Manager for Byron Bay.

Engineers found that the existing structure could not withstand relocation, prompting

Council to collaborate with Rotary on plans for a new clocktower that preserves the spirit of the original.

The new structure will stand just a few metres from its current position, maintaining the same proportions and reusing the original clockfaces and mechanism. The exterior will feature tiles or glazed bricks inspired by Byron Bay’s natural environment— materials chosen for both durability and resistance to vandalism.

“The new design refects the town’s character while ensuring longevity,” Ms McGarry said. “Although the clocktower will come down early in 2026, reconstruction won’t begin until later in the year once drainage works are fnished.”

Further information about the clocktower project and the Byron Bay drainage upgrade can be found on Byron Shire Council’s website.

Times The Northern Rivers Times

November 13, 2025 ENTERTAINMENT

Predator: Badlands

A Fierce Return to the Hunt

Jef Gibbs

Predator: Badlands marks a bold, brutal return to the legendary science fction franchise, blending the primal survival themes of the original Predator with modern action flmmaking and a striking Australian favour. Set in the remote outback of South Australia, the flm pits a new generation of humans against the galaxy’s most ruthless hunters amid a scorched, unforgiving landscape.

The Story

After a classifed military transport crashlands deep in the desert, an elite search-and-rescue unit is dispatched to recover its mysterious cargo. Led by Captain Tessa Ward (played with gritty realism by Elizabeth Debicki), the team soon realises they are not alone. Something is stalking them — something far

deadlier than the arid heat or the isolation. When infrared sights appear in the darkness and guttural clicks echo across the canyons, the team must fght for survival against a technologically superior predator.

Unlike earlier entries that leaned on high-tech jungle warfare, Badlands uses Australia’s vast red deserts as a haunting new battlefeld. The isolation feels both physical and psychological, evoking the outback’s raw hostility and the human instinct to endure. Director David Michôd ( The Rover , Animal Kingdom ) crafts a flm that feels distinctly Australian, grounded in the harsh beauty of the interior and laced with the moral ambiguity that has become his signature.

The Cast and Performances

Elizabeth Debicki anchors the flm with commanding presence,

portraying Ward as both soldier and survivor.

David Wenham brings quiet depth to Sergeant Callow, a war veteran haunted by his past.

Rising star Jacob Junior Nayinggul delivers a breakout performance as Indigenous tracker Jarra, whose knowledge of the land becomes the unit’s greatest asset. His character also gives the flm emotional resonance, connecting the ancient spirit of Country with the alien intrusion that disturbs it.

Themes and Direction

Michôd leans heavily on atmosphere and tension over nonstop action. The frst half is a slow burn — eerie and methodical — as the soldiers unravel their grim situation. When the violence erupts, it’s swift and shocking, captured through tight cinematography and practical efects

reminiscent of 1987’s original. The Predator itself has been redesigned with subtle upgrades — sleeker, more animalistic, and terrifyingly efcient. Thematically, Badlands explores more than survival. It’s a refection on humanity’s own predatory nature — how we exploit our environment, each other, and even the unknown. The setting magnifes this, as the Australian outback becomes a mirror for both the alien’s hunt and mankind’s own history of confict.

Interesting Facts

The flm was shot across Coober Pedy, Woomera, and Flinders Ranges, taking advantage of the region’s alien-like terrain. Practical efects dominated the production, with a seven-foot-tall stunt performer in full Predator armour rather than heavy CGI. Debicki reportedly performed

many of her own stunts, including a dangerous vehicle sequence in 47-degree heat. The crew dubbed the shoot “Predator meets Mad Max,” and it feels every bit as gritty.

Verdict

Predator: Badlands isn’t just another sequel — it’s a thrilling reinvention. With its Australian heart, grounded characters, and blistering desert landscapes, it proves the franchise still has fresh blood to spill.

Rating: «««« (4/5)

SPECIAL SCREENINGS

HAMILTON PG) Mon: 6:00PM

NT LIVE: INTER ALIA CTC) Thurs: 6:00PM. Sun: 3:30PM

SHOWGIRLS R18+) CINEVAULT Mon: 6:00PM

WICKED: FOR GOOD (CTC GRAND PREVIEW Wed: 7:00PM

FAMILY FILMS

KANGAROO PG) Daily: 10:45AM THE BAD GUYS 2 PG) Sat: 10:50AM. Sun:11:00AM

ALL FILMS

BUGONIA MA15+ Daily: 1:00PM, 3:30PM, 8:20PM

DIE, MY LOVE (MA15+) Daily: 1:00PM, 8:30PM

FRANKENSTEIN (MA15+) Thurs, Fri, Tues, Wed: 1:10PM, 8:00PM. Sat: 11:30AM, 8:00PM. Sun: 8:00PM. Mon: 1:10PM, 8:20PM

GOOD FORTUNE M) Daily except Thurs, Sat, Sun: 11:00AM, 8:30PM. Thurs: 11:00AM. Sat, Sun: 8:30PM

JOURNEY HOME, DAVID GULPILIL (M Daily: 2:00PM

KEEPER MA15+ Daily except Sat, Sun: 10:50AM, 6:20PM. Sat, Sun: 10:50AM, 6:00PM

NOW YOU SEE ME: NOW YOU DON'T M) NFT Daily except Sat, Sun: 11:00AM, 1:20PM, 3:40PM, 6:00PM, 8:30PM. Sat: 11:00AM, 1:20PM, 3:40PM, 6:00PM, 8:15PM. Sun: 11:00AM, 1:20PM, 3:20PM, 6:00PM, 8:15PM ONE BATTLE AFTER ANOTHER M)

Daily except Wed: 10:45AM, 4:00PM, 7:15PM. Wed: 10:45AM, 4:00PM PREDATOR: BADLANDS (M Thurs: 1:15PM, 3:30PM, 5:45PM, 8:30PM. Fri: 1:15PM, 3:30PM, 5:45PM, 8:50PM. Sat: 3:30PM, 5:45PM, 8:45PM. Sun, Wed: 1:15PM, 3:30PM, 5:45PM. Mon: 1:15PM, 3:30PM, 8:40PM. Tues: 1:15PM, 3:30PM, 5:45PM, 8:40PM PRIME MINISTER (M Daily except Sat, Sun: 4:10PM

REGRETTING YOU (M Daily except Thurs, Sun: 3:30PM, 6:00PM. Thurs: 3:30PM, 8:30PM. Sun: 6:00PM SPRINGSTEEN: DELIVER ME FROM NOWHERE (M Thurs, Fri, Tues: 10:45AM, 3:15PM, 8:40PM. Sat: 1:00PM, 3:15PM, 8:30PM. Sun: 11:30AM, 7:00PM, 8:40PM. Mon: 10:45AM, 3:15PM, 8:15PM. Wed: 10:45AM, 3:15PM THE RUNNING MAN (CTC NFT Daily except Wed: 10:45AM, 1:30PM, 4:15PM, 5:45PM, 7:00PM. Wed: 10:45AM, 1:30PM, 4:15PM, 5:45PM, 7:15PM

WICKED: RE - RELEASE (PG NFT Daily: 11:45AM

DIE, MY LOVE MA15+) Thurs, Fri, Mon, Tues: 5:10PM. Sat, Sun: 5:20PM. Wed: 2:40PM

HELLO, DOLLY! (PG) MATINEE MEMORIES Wed: 10:00AM

NOW YOU SEE ME: NOW YOU DON'T M) NFT Thurs, Fri, Mon, Tues: 9:45AM, 12:10PM, 7:40PM. Sat, Sun: 10:00AM, 12:20PM, 7:40PM. Wed: 10:00AM, 3:10PM, 7:45PM

PREDATOR: BADLANDS (M Thurs, Fri, Mon, Tues: 2:30PM, 7:40PM. Sat, Sun: 2:30PM, 7:45PM. Wed: 2:00PM, 5:30PM

REGRETTING YOU (M Thurs, Fri, Mon, Tues: 10:00AM, 5:15PM. Sat, Sun, Wed: 5:15PM

SPRINGSTEEN: DELIVER ME FROM NOWHERE (M Daily except Wed: 4:50PM THE RUNNING MAN (CTC NFT

Thurs, Fri, Mon, Tues: 11:50AM, 2:30PM, 7:20PM. Sat, Sun: 11:50AM, 2:40PM, 7:20PM. Wed: 11:20AM, 4:15PM, 7:40PM THE TRAVELLERS (M Thurs, Fri, Mon, Tues: 3:10PM. Sat, Sun: 10:00AM. Wed: 1:00PM

WICKED: FOR GOOD (CTC GRAND PREVIEW Wed: 7:00PM

PUZZLES

TIME FOR TRIVIA

1 The Meteora, known as the “monasteries in the sky”, is a popular tourist attraction in which country?

(a) Greece (b) Italy (c) Portugal (d) Spain

2 In 1943, which woman became the first female member of the Australian senate?

(a) Enid Lyons (b) Edith Cowan (c) Catherine Helen Spence (d) Dorothy Tangney

3 The ocarina is classified as what type of musical instrument?

(a) Percussion (b) Brass (c) Wind (d) String

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 DASTARDLY

(a) Small and active

(b) Tyrannical

(c) Cowardly

2 ENCUMBER

(a) To impede or hamper

(b) To contend against

(c) To decorate with inlay

3 HABILE

(a) Capable of being inhabited

(b) Skilful

(c) Resulting from habit

4 PERDITION

(a) The highest degree of proficiency

(b) A deliberate breach of trust

(c) Utter destruction or ruin

5 TENUITY

(a) Persistence

(b) Slenderness

(c) The act of stretching

4 Who was the original host of the Australian TV show, Q&A? (a) Jenny Brockie (b) Tony Jones (c) Caroline Jones (d) Paul Barry

5 The Football Federation Australia Cup was founded during which decade?

(a) 1980s (b) 1990s (c) 2000s (d) 2010s

6 The Tropic of Cancer passes through which of the following seas?

(a) Mediterranean Sea (b) Sea of Japan

(c) Red Sea (d) Black Sea

WEEKLY CROSSWORD

BEST ON THE BOX

FRIDAY

MARY BERRY’S ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS

SBS FOOD, 8.30pm

OK, so it’s only mid-November… but as those already xated on festive hosting duties can tell you, as of Friday, there’s only 41 sleeps until December 25. A terrifying thought for the rest of us, but don’t fear, if anyone can make Christmas catering fun, easy and utterly delicious, it’s Dame Mary Berry (above). This is the former Great British Bake O judge’s 2022 special, but Berry has been cooking these recipes for more than 50 years, so what’s another three? From a stilton and sage canapé to a lemon-and-herb roast turkey, pudding, tri e and, of course, a festive cranberry cocktail, these tasty treats will have you wishing away the next six weeks as you plan your own festive feast.

FRIDAY, November 14

TUESDAY

JAMIE DURIE’S FUTURE HOUSE

NBN, 8.30pm

Landscaper-turned-TV-host Jamie Durie (right) puts his money where his mouth is in this new series that aims to tackle Australia’s housing crisis with savvy design, innovative building methods and environmental impact front of mind. Having recently completed the decade-long process of constructing an o masterpiece in Pittwater, NSW, Durie promised partner Ameka that he was “done building”, but she laughed, “I know better”. Durie sets out to 3D-print a house on their Byron Bay farm in just three months, while also following three families facing council red tape, nancial hurdles and wild weather in the process of fast-tracking their own revolutionary sustainable homes.

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Portrait Artist Of The Year. (R) 11.00 The Following Events Are Based On A Pack Of Lies. (Final, Malv, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon.

1.00 The Newsreader. (Ml, R) 1.55 Grand Designs Australia. (PG, R) 2.55 QI. (PGl, R)

3.25 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery. (PG, R) 3.55 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Outta Town Adventures. (R) 10.00 The Shape Of History. (PGav, R) 11.00 Ireland’s Secrets From Above. (PG, R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 The Cancer Killers. (PG, R) 3.00 Nula. 3.30 The Cook Up. (PG, R) 4.00 Grand Tours Of Scotland’s Rivers. (PG, R) 4.35 Jeopardy! 4.55 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.25 Mastermind Aust. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) Presented by Tom Gleeson.

7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.

7.30 Gardening Australia. Millie Ross visits a peony farm.

8.30 Maigret. (Mv) Maigret tries to anticipate the bank robbers’ next move, while closing in on Honore’s killers.

9.25 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) Tom Gleeson grills four fan favourites who are experts on topics in a comedic quiz show.

9.55 Crime Night! (PG, R) Hosted by Julia Zemiro.

10.25 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)

10.55 ABC Late News.

11.10 Silent Witness. (Mav, R)

12.15 Rage New Music. (MA15+dhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Storms From Above. (PG) Looks at storms and cutting-edge technology.

8.30 Nick Knowles Into Death Valley. (PG, R) Nick Knowles travels from the southern tip of Death Valley to Death Valley Junction.

9.25 The Scottish Island That Won The Lottery. (PG, R)

10.20 SBS World News Late.

10.50 Sisi. (MA15+as, R) 11.45 Tokyo Vice. (MA15+av, R)

1.55 Tutankhamun. (PG, R)

3.00 Craft It Yourself. (PG, R)

3.55 Home Of The Year: Scotland. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 2.15pm Thomas. 2.50 Gardening Australia Junior. 3.05 Play School. 3.30 Wiggle And Learn. 3.45 Fizzy And Suds. 4.10 Andy’s Safari Adventures. 4.25 Super Monsters. 5.30 Peter Rabbit. 6.05 PJ Masks. 6.25 Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.30 Hard Quiz Kids. 9.00 Robot Wars. 10.00 Merlin. 10.45 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Morning Programs. Noon DW The Day. 12.30 Jurassic Cash. 1.35 The Bee Whisperer. 2.25 A Fork In Australia. 3.30 BBC News At Ten. 4.00 France 24. 4.30 PBS News. 5.35 If You Are The One. 6.35 Jeopardy! 7.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.25 Beach Volleyball. World Championships. Day 1. Evening session. 11.20 What It Feels Like For A Girl. (Premiere) 1.10am Adam Hills: The Last Leg. 2.00 Letterkenny. 3.30 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.

6am The Battle Of The River Plate. Continued. (1956, PG) 7.45 The Eagle Has Landed. (1976, M) 10.15 Dating Amber. (2020, M) 11.55 Wide Sargasso Sea. (1993, M) 1.45pm RBG. (2018, PG) 3.35 Murder Party. (2022, PG, French) 5.35 The Bridge On The River Kwai. (1957, PG) 8.30 A Midnight Clear. (1992, MA15+) 10.35 12 Strong. (2018, MA15+) 1am The Good, The Bad And The Ugly. (1966, M) 4.15 The Longest Week. (2014, M) 5.50 The Movie Show.

THURSDAY

VIGIL

SBS, 9.25pm

ABC TV (2) SBS (3) SEVEN (6)

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.10 Blankety Blank. (PGas) 2.00 Bridge Of Lies: Celebrity Specials. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.

6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs.

8.30 MOVIE: Jason Bourne. (2016, Mav, R) An assassin is forced out of hiding when one of his old allies uncovers information about his past. However, his e orts to expose the truth force him into a confrontation with corrupt elements of the CIA. Matt Damon, Tommy Lee Jones, Alicia Vikander.

11.00 Motorway Patrol. (PG, R)

11.30 GetOn Extra.

12.00 Healthy, Wealthy & Wise. (PG, R)

1.00 In Plain Sight. (Madv)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 NBC Today.

7TWO (62)

This exceptional British crime drama’s haunting theme song – Danish singersongwriter Agnes Fuel to the – perfectly sets the scene for the nerveshredding events that follow. Season two shifts the show’s setting from the claustrophobic con nes of a submarine to the skies above, with a focus on deadly drones. When a British Air Force weapons test goes disastrously wrong and kills seven military personnel, detective Amy Silva (Suranne Jones) is called in to investigate. With the help of her similarly savvy partner Kirsten (Rose Leslie, above), Silva must determine if the shocking incident was the result of an unfortunate malfunction or something sinister.

(5) NBN (8, 80)

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: A Love To Remember. (2021, PGa, R) 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 5.00 Tipping Point Australia. (PG, R)

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 David Attenborough’s Asia: The Arid Heart. (PG) Presented by Sir David Attenborough.

8.40 MOVIE: Force Of Nature: The Dry 2. (2024, Mal) When a woman goes missing during a hiking retreat, two federal agents head into the mountains hoping to  nd her. Eric Bana, Anna Torv.

11.00 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+av, R)

11.50 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

12.40 Pointless. (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)

Skippy. 8.00 TV Shop. 10.30 Pointless.

Antiques Roadshow. Noon Tennis. Billie

6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 7.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer.

7.30 Big Brother Australia. (Malns) A group of houseguests face twists, tasks and live evictions in the hopes of winning the nal prize. Hosted by Mel Tracina. 8.40 The Kick That United The Nation. (PGal)

10.10 10’s Late News. Comprehensive coverage of local, national and international news, as well as the latest sport and weather. 10.35 10 News+. (R) Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 11.35 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Hosted by Stephen Colbert. 12.30 Home Shopping. (R)

6am Surf Patrol. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Animal Rescue. 8.30 Gatecrashers. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Healthy, Wealthy & Wise. 1.00 DVine Living. 1.30 Weekender. 2.00 House Of Wellness. 3.00 The Great Australian Doorstep. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Animal Rescue. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs. 6am Shopping. 8.00 What’s Up Down Under. 9.00

9GO! (83)

6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 Motor Racing. FIA World Endurance C’ship. 8 Hours of Bahrain. H’lights. 9.05 Nanny. 9.35 Addams Family. 10.05 Bewitched. 10.35 Jeannie. 11.05 The West Wing. Noon Pretty Little Liars. 2.00 Golden Girls. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 Jeannie.

TARGET TIME

M E O O R N

T M E Today’s target: 20 words average 24 words good 28+ words excellent

Find words of four letters or more. Every word must include the centre letter and each letter is used once only. Find at least one nine-letter word. No colloquial or foreign words, capitalised nouns, apostrophes, hyphens. No verbs or plural words ending in ‘s’. Solution list is not exhaustive. Ref: Macquarie Dictionary

STARS & PUZZLES

ARIES (Mar 21 - Apr 19)

On Monday, Mercury starts reversing through your travel and adventure zones. If you are going away (especially interstate or overseas) make sure you double-check your itinerary. And (if possible) avoid signing contracts and legal documents until after November 30. On Thursday, your ruler, Mars, links up with retro Mercury, so you’ll feel physically restless and verbally reckless. Some restraint is required, otherwise you could do or say things that you later regret.

TAURUS (Apr 20 - May 20)

Stubborn, slow-moving Bulls prefer things to proceed smoothly, with no sudden surprises along the way. However, with Uranus still transiting through your sign, life continues to be a series of ups and downs. Singer-songwritermusician Neil Young (who was born on November 12, 1945) observes: “As you go through life, you’ve got to see the valleys as well as the peaks.”

This week the focus is on close relationships, conversation and co-operation. Feel the love!

GEMINI (May 21 - June 20)

With Mercury (your ruling planet) in retrograde mode (from Monday until November 30), resist the urge to over-analyse, over-worry, overstress and overreact. By all means think things through, but avoid getting caught up in an endless, obsessive loop. Try to relax and let your creative side express itself. On Thursday, your body and mind will feel super amped up, so try to burn off excess energy with some vigorous physical exercise and plenty of mental stimulation.

CANCER (June 21 - July 22)

This week Mars and retrograde Mercury hook up in your daily routine and wellbeing zones, which encourages you to revise and reboot your work, diet and/or fitness habits. Nutritious food and regular exercise will help you bounce through the week with some extra pep in your Crab step. Plus find ways to reduce paperwork and streamline your output. But if you don’t communicate clearly with work colleagues, then misunderstandings are likely.

CROSS WORD FIND

LEO (July 23 - Aug 22)

Hey, Lions … remember it’s Mercury Retrograde season. If you stir up grievances with an old adversary, you could find you’ve bitten off more than you can comfortably chew! When it comes to relationship problems, avoid quick fixes (especially with family members). You’ll come up with a satisfactory solution if you think things through and act on your hunches. Tune into the peace-loving influence of Venus as you learn to smile sweetly, forgive and forget.

VIRGO (Aug 23 - Sep 22)

Mercury (your ruler) turns retrograde on Monday. It’s the planet of clear thinking, communication (talking, texting, writing), transport, travel, commuting, commerce, computers, media and the internet. So, it’s not a good time to gossip; sign contracts; start a job or business; buy a phone, computer, car or home; launch a website; install new software; go on an important business trip or embark on a big holiday. Be patient and wait until after November 30.

LIBRA (Sep 23 - Oct 22)

On Monday, Mercury turns retrograde and – for you – education, communication, computers and travel will be especially affected. So, expect some of the following – dodgy deadlines, delays, disruptions, mix-ups, misunderstandings, backflips and breakdowns; reversals and recalls. A calm, careful, well-balanced Libran approach will see you through. Jupiter encourages you to shine brightly in the workplace, as you show others what you are capable of.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 - Nov 21)

Is an ongoing financial problem bugging you big time? A combination of clever research and oldfashioned hard work will lead to a smart solution that ticks all the boxes. From Monday onwards, retrograde Mercury challenges you to reboot your thinking, revise your strategy and devise a practical plan. With the Sun and Venus both visiting Scorpio, it’s your time to sparkle and shine socially as you charm the cynics, persuade the critics and dazzle the doubters.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 - Dec 21)

Most Sagittarians are happy, glass-half-full kind of folk, so Mercury Retrograde doesn’t usually throw you. You’re used to being disorganised and love it when plans change at the last minute! And you prefer to focus on the positives. This Mercury retrograde (in your sign) is a good time to do anything with a ‘re’ in front of it … revise, rehearse, review, remember, return, recover and reconnect – especially involving your appearance and personal projects.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 - Jan 19)

Don’t become so focused on the busyness and miniature of day-to-day life that you lose sight of the bigger picture. Look towards the horizon!

Reviewing and resetting long-term goals, dreaming ambitious dreams and making time for meditation, contemplation and/or relaxation are the secrets to a successful week. Beyond that, your motto for the future is from birthday great, singer-songwriter Neil Young: “There’s something ahead worth fighting for.”

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 - Feb 18)

This week Mars and retrograde Mercury activate your hopes-and-wishes zone, so it’s a good time to reflect on your goals and dreams for the future. Do they need to be reviewed, revised and rebooted? Then it’s time to be proactive about making positive changes, and Thursday is the best day of the week to start. Be inspired by singer-songwriter Neil Young (who turns 80 on Wednesday): “One new feature or fresh take can change everything.”

PISCES (Feb 19 - Mar 20)

Mercury starts reversing through your career zone on Monday, so relations with a work colleague, client or customer could be challenging. Over the next three weeks, smart Fish folk will pick battles very carefully and choose words very wisely. With Uranus spending the last few months in your education zone, stay curious about the world around you. Be inspired by birthday great, modernist painter Georgia O’Keeffe: “Happiness is temporary, but interest is continuous.”

Northern Rivers Entertainment Guide — November 15 to 22, 2025

Jef Gibbs

From Byron’s dance foors to Lismore’s theatres and the Clarence Valley’s coastal charm, this week the Northern Rivers comes alive with creativity, food, music and community connection. Here’s what’s happening across the region.

BYRON BAY & HINTERLAND

Dis-co Ball 2025 –Inclusive Dance Event

When: Saturday 22 November

Where: Byron Shire venue

What: A vibrant, inclusive dance event uniting performance art, music and community spirit. Expect colourful costumes, dynamic beats and an atmosphere that celebrates diversity.

Why go: A joyous night of music and movement for all ages and abilities.

Tip: Wear something bright and comfortable to dance in.

CR8iVE Northern Rivers Liveability Forum

When: Wednesday 19 November

Where: Byron Community Centre

What: An afternoon of creative conversation bringing together local business leaders, artists and innovators to discuss the region’s future. Why go: Insightful panels and networking opportunities.

Tip: Bring a notepad for ideas — and business cards if you’re in the creative industries.

Farmers’ Markets

When: Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 November

Where: Byron Bay and Bangalow

What: Fresh produce, live music, handmade crafts and friendly locals. Why go: A true taste of the Byron Bay lifestyle — organic, fresh and relaxed.

Tip: Arrive early for cofee and breakfast under the fg trees.

LISMORE & ALSTONVILLE

Floodland Film

Screening and Q&A

When: Saturday 22

November

Where: Lismore Regional Gallery or Theatre

What: A special screening of Floodland , a moving documentary capturing the stories of recovery and resilience following the region’s devastating foods.

Why go: Local

flmmaking at its most heartfelt — and a vital refection on community strength.

Tip: Stay for the post-flm Q&A with the creators.

Family Arts Showcase

When: Sunday 16

November

Where: Lismore City

Hall

What: An afternoon of children’s theatre, puppetry and live art.

Why go: Ideal for families looking for creative fun indoors.

Tip: Suitable for ages fve and up; bring snacks for the intermission.

BALLINA & LENNOX

HEAD

Pop-Up Food & Wellness Evening

When: Friday 21

November

Where: Ballina or

Lennox Head Community Centre

What: A relaxed evening celebrating local produce, with tastings, live music and wellness workshops.

Why go: Perfect for unwinding at week’s end with a drink and local nibbles.

Tip: Bring a picnic rug — outdoor seating flls quickly.

Live Music Mid-Week Sessions

When: Thursday 20 November

Where: Ballina RSL Lounge

What: Acoustic session featuring Northern Rivers performers.

Why go: Mid-week music with a river view and easygoing atmosphere.

Tip: Arrive early for dinner and enjoy sunset over the Richmond River.

TWEED & TYALGUM

HINTERLAND

Tyalgum Dance Spectacular

When: Saturday 15

November

Where: Tyalgum Hall

What: Ballroom glamour meets country charm in an evening of new-vogue and Latin dance.

Why go: High-energy performances, local talent and live orchestra fair.

Tip: Dress up — and don’t forget your dancing shoes!

Hinterland Village Festival

When: Saturday 15

November (Day & Night)

Where: Tyalgum Village

Green

What: Market stalls, local food, live music, followed by an evening dance under the stars.

Why go: Combines small-town warmth with festival excitement.

Tip: Bring cash — many rural stalls may not have EFTPOS.

CLARENCE VALLEY & ILUKA

Imagine Northern Rivers – Clarence Valley Series

When: Saturday 15

November (2 pm – 4:30 pm)

Where: Iluka

Community Hall

What: A creative forum celebrating local voices, arts and ideas shaping the future of the Clarence Valley.

Why go: Combines storytelling, art and discussion in one coastal setting.

Tip: Free entry but seating limited — arrive early.

Oysters & Sparkling Pop-Up

When: Sunday 16

November

Where: Clarence Gallery Grounds, Grafton

What: Local oysters paired with sparkling wine and short talks from marine experts.

Why go: The perfect coastal afternoon for foodies and conservation fans alike.

Tip: Best enjoyed with friends — make it a Sunday social event.

ACROSS THE

REGION

The Regional Sessions 2025 – Music Industry Workshops

When: Various dates throughout the week

Where: Venues across Byron, Lismore and Ballina

What: Professional development for emerging musicians — workshops, mentoring, and small live performances.

Why go: A must-attend for Northern Rivers songwriters looking to level up.

Tip: Bring demos or lyrics if you want feedback from the pros.

Community Walk and Outdoor Wellbeing Day

When: Sunday 16

November

Where: Brunswick Heads Nature Trail

What: A guided community walk promoting ftness, nature appreciation and connection.

Why go: Good company, great views and a sense of regional pride.

Tip: Bring sunscreen, water and a hat — and maybe a friend or two.

Wrap-Up

From oyster tastings to ballroom glitz, this week’s entertainment calendar captures the Northern Rivers’ diversity — coastal, creative, connected. Whether you’re dancing in Tyalgum, dining in Ballina, or discovering new stories in Lismore, there’s a reason to get out and explore.

Offset Account Trap: Why It’s Skewed to a Lucky Few

Jef

Gibbs

New research from the University of Sydney has raised concerns about the fairness and complexity of mortgage ofset accounts, revealing they often beneft wealthier households while costing others more than they save.

Around 40% of Australian mortgage holders use ofset accounts — transaction accounts linked to home loans that reduce the interest paid by ofsetting the balance held in the account. For example, a $1 million loan with $100,000 in an ofset account incurs interest

only on $900,000.

However, Dr James Graham from the university’s School of Economics found that high-income households

middle-income borrowers pay extra fees and higher interest rates without gaining meaningful savings.

“Ofset accounts can be powerful tools, but they’re not one-size-ftsall,” Dr Graham said.

“Many households sign up without understanding the costs, and in some

Borrowers should weigh the annual fees and rate loadings against the expected interest savings,” Dr Graham said. “Without maintaining a healthy balance, the financial benefit can quickly vanish.

with larger mortgages and more expensive homes reap the greatest fnancial benefts. Many

cases, they may actually be worse of.”

Ofset accounts explained

Mortgage Choice broker Richard Denholm said ofset accounts work best for property investors and households with substantial savings, typically above $50,000. “They allow borrowers to access funds when needed without afecting the tax deductibility of investment loan interest,” he said.

By contrast, homeowners focused on low fees or who maintain smaller balances — under $20,000 on average — are often better of with a basic home loan and redraw facility , which usually comes with no fees and a lower rate.

Ofset accounts typically

carry an interest rate loading of about 0.25% and an annual fee of up to $395 Mis-linked accounts and transparency issues

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) is currently investigating ofset account mis-linking issues across eight major lenders, following reports that some customers weren’t receiving the ofset benefts they were paying for.

Dr Graham’s study also highlights the need for clearer, fairer pricing structures across banks.

“There’s a clear lack of transparency in how these

products are priced,” he said. “If lenders provided fexible and simpler options, more households could access the benefts without being penalised by high fees.”

The report recommends greater consumer education, urging borrowers to check whether their ofset accounts are correctly linked and to calculate whether their savings truly justify the costs.

As policymakers and regulators review the fndings, experts agree that better transparency and education could help deliver fairer fnancial outcomes for all Australian homeowners.

Brisbane Suburbs to Watch in 2026: Analysts Reveal Top Picks

Jef Gibbs

Brisbane’s property market continues to surge into 2026 after a milestone year that saw the city’s median house price surpass $1 million for the frst time. As of October 2025, house values sit at $1,062,109—up 8.1% year-on-year—while units have jumped 12.4% to $755,087,according to CoreLogic data.

Analysts expect house prices to maintain similar growth next year, while unit price gains may moderate. The federal government’s expanded 5% Deposit Scheme, with Brisbane’s cap lifted to $1 million, is tipped to fuel demand among frst-home buyers and push lower to mid-tier property prices higher.

Rental markets remain tight, with vacancy rates across the city hovering near record lows—keeping rents rising and investor yields strong

Below are the suburbs tipped by experts Darren Piper (Universal Buyers Agents) and Melinda Jennison (Streamline Property Buyers) as the ones to watch in 2026

1. Bracken Ridge (4017)

• Median price: $950,000 (houses), $690,000 (units)

• Median rent: $650 pw (houses), $620 pw (units)

$837,500 (units)*

• Median rent: $750 pw (houses), $640 pw (units)*

Ofering a breezy, bayside lifestyle at a lower entry price than neighbouring Manly, this suburb remains in high demand. Prices rose 7.1% for houses and 10.9% for units. Good schools, green spaces and proximity to Moreton Bay enhance its appeal.

7. Coorparoo (4151)

• Median price:

$1.8 million (houses), $725,000 (units)*

8. Nundah (4012) & Northgate (4013)

• Nundah median: $1.31m (houses), $700k (units)

• Northgate median: $1.23m (houses), $695k (units)* These neighbouring suburbs combine afordability with rail access and airport proximity. Nundah continues to gentrify, with unit prices up 22.8%, while Northgate remains a value alternative with strong upside potential. Outlook for 2026

2. Bald Hills (4036)

• Median price: $869,000 (houses), $675,000 (units)

• Median rent: $615 pw (houses), $550 pw (units)*

An afordable northern suburb with strong rail links and green open spaces, Bald Hills continues to attract families and investors alike. Demand is strong, listings are scarce, and price pressure remains high, with growth expected to continue into 2026.

3. Kedron (4031)

• Median price: $1.35 million (houses), $676,500 (units)*

• Median rent: $720 pw (houses), $530 pw (units)*

Located just eight kilometres from the CBD,

A standout pick from both experts, Bracken Ridge’s “landlocked” location north of the CBD limits new development, keeping stock tight and prices frm. House prices rose 9.3%, while units jumped 16.9% over the past year. Low vacancies (below 1%) and strong yields—around 4.5% for units—make it a solid performer.

Kedron ofers lifestyle appeal with proximity to Kalinga and direct airport access via the M7. Tight stock, historic homes, and unit price growth of 18.7% make it a desirable area for families and professionals.

4. Ferny Grove (4055)

• Median price: $1.18 million (houses), $733,500 (units)*

• Median rent: $750 pw (houses), $517 pw (units)*

With leafy parks and strong rail connectivity, Ferny Grove remains a family favourite. Median house prices have grown 9.8%, and unit prices have climbed 17.3%. Limited stock ensures continued upward pressure on values.

5. Chermside West (4032)

• Median price: $1.11 million (houses)*

• Median rent: $672 pw (houses)*

A tightly held, familyfriendly pocket 12km from

the CBD, Chermside West benefts from proximity to major employers like Prince Charles Hospital. Modest 6.7% annual growth and low density make it a safe long-term hold.

6. Manly West (4179)

• Median price: $1.2 million (houses),

• Median rent: $750 pw (houses), $575 pw (units)*

Just 3.5km from the CBD, Coorparoo’s vibrant dining scene and strong rental market (4.2% yields) make it a top pick for investors. Unit prices grew 11.5%, while houses rose 13.2% over the past year amid tight supply.

Brisbane’s property market is forecast to remain robust, driven by tight supply, infrastructure upgrades, and a strong economy. Analysts expect steady house growth and continued interest in wellconnected, afordable family suburbs as frsthome buyers and investors compete for limited stock.

Servicing the Northern Rivers “Your Sales & Property Management Specialists”

“If you are thinking of selling, please give Barb Joblin a call”

Australian Super Funds Challenge Elon Musk’s $US1 Trillion Tesla Pay Deal

Jef Gibbs

A number of major Australian superannuation funds have joined a growing chorus of global investors voicing concern over Tesla’s newly approved $US1 trillion ($AUD1.54 trillion) executive pay package for CEO Elon Musk , describing it as excessive, risky, and out of step with sound corporate governance. Despite strong opposition from several institutional investors, including Australian super funds Aware Super , Cbus Super, and AustralianSuper , Tesla shareholders voted this week to approve the historic compensation package. The vote follows years of legal wrangling and intense scrutiny over whether such an unprecedented reward is justifed by performance.

The Most Ambitious Pay Deal in Corporate History

Under the new plan, Musk’s payout will be directly tied to achieving a series of highly ambitious milestones by 2035 . To unlock the full value of the deal, Tesla must reach a staggering market capitalisation of around $US8.5 trillion, alongside massive expansions in vehicle production, the successful rollout of its robotaxi feet , and the commercialisation of humanoid robots

The scale of these goals dwarfs the market

ambitions of most global corporations. Even if Tesla were to meet only part of its targets, Musk’s compensation could still amount to hundreds of billions of dollars.

For many investors, however, the question isn’t just whether Musk can deliver — but whether a single individual should be entitled to such an extraordinary slice of shareholder value.

Why Australian Super Funds Said ‘No’

Several Australian institutional investors

publicly opposed the plan, citing concerns over governance, proportionality, and longterm shareholder risk.

A spokesperson for Aware Super said the fund believed the compensation structure was “ excessive in both scale and uncertainty,” and warned it could undermine confdence in the integrity of executive pay frameworks.

Similarly, Cbus Super noted that “ performance targets must be achievable, measurable and aligned with shareholder outcomes ,” arguing that Musk’s package could distort accountability and give one executive disproportionate control over corporate outcomes.

AustralianSuper , one of the country’s largest funds, has previously voted against large CEO incentive deals globally, maintaining that investors should not reward “ aspirational targets disconnected from fnancial performance.” Governance Red Flags Critics of the package also point to the longstanding governance issues at Tesla, where Musk’s personal

infuence over the board has raised concerns about independence and oversight.

Tesla’s directors have been repeatedly accused of being too close to Musk, who is known for his dominant leadership style and sprawling infuence across multiple companies including SpaceX, Neuralink, and X (formerly Twitter).

Analysts warn that this level of concentration of power — often referred to as key-person risk — could expose shareholders to volatility if Musk were to step away, or if his other ventures distract from Tesla’s core operations.

Furthermore, some governance experts argue that the deal sets a dangerous precedent for corporate compensation, rewarding ambition and personality over fnancial fundamentals.

“There’s a risk that boards start chasing headlines rather than sustainable shareholder value,” said one Australian investment analyst. “If these kinds of deals become normalised, it undermines the accountability that’s central to investor trust.”

Supporters Argue It’s Performance-Driven

Despite the criticism, Tesla’s board has defended the package as a performance-based incentive that directly ties Musk’s compensation to long-term results.

They argue that Musk’s leadership has already delivered enormous value for shareholders, transforming Tesla into the world’s most valuable carmaker and a major player in renewable energy and AI.

Tesla Chair Robyn Denholm , an Australian who has chaired the board since 2018, described the package as “ a fair refection of the value Musk has already created and the scale of what lies ahead .”

Musk himself has claimed the rewards are justifed by Tesla’s trajectory and his personal fnancial risk.

“Everything I earn comes from performance — if Tesla doesn’t achieve, I get nothing,” he said following the vote.

Implications for Investors

For Australian super funds with global portfolios, the controversy highlights the

growing tension between backing visionary entrepreneurs and maintaining disciplined governance standards. As global investment becomes increasingly intertwined, Australian funds must navigate ethical and fduciary responsibilities while managing exposure to companies led by high-profle, risk-taking fgures.

The Tesla vote also reignites the debate over how executive pay should refect innovation and long-term value creation — without encouraging excessive risk or undermining investor trust.

While Tesla’s share price surged following the approval of the deal, some analysts warn the optimism could fade if the company fails to hit its aggressive growth targets.

For now, Musk’s trillion-dollar payday stands as both a symbol of unparalleled ambition and a test case for modern corporate governance — one that will continue to draw scrutiny from investors, regulators, and shareholders worldwide.

The Ultimate Travel Guide to East China

Jef Gibbs

Top Destinations, Budget Tips & Best Accommodation

East China is a region where tradition meets innovation, a captivating blend of serene landscapes, vibrant cities, and deep cultural roots. From the bustling streets of Shanghai to the tranquil waterways of Suzhou, every corner tells a story of ancient dynasties, silk merchants, and modern ambition. Whether you’re seeking culinary adventures, peaceful gardens, or ancient temples, East China ofers an unforgettable journey through one of Asia’s most dynamic regions.

Top 5 Places to Visit

1. Shanghai – The beating heart of East China, Shanghai dazzles with its futuristic skyline along The Bund, vibrant nightlife, and cultural gems like Yu Garden and Jing’an Temple. Explore the French Concession’s leafy boulevards and end the day with a sunset cruise on the Huangpu River.

2. Hangzhou (Zhejiang Province) – Known for the poetic beauty of West Lake, Hangzhou is pure serenity. Visitors can stroll willow-lined paths, sip Dragon Well tea at local plantations, or explore the Lingyin Temple nestled among misty hills.

3. Suzhou (Jiangsu Province) – Famous for its UNESCO-listed classical gardens, Suzhou blends art, architecture, and waterways into living poetry. The Humble Administrator’s Garden

and the Silk Museum are must-sees.

4. Nanjing – Once the capital of several dynasties, Nanjing ofers a rich mix of history and culture. Highlights include the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, the ancient city wall, and the Qinhuai River night markets.

5. Huangshan (Anhui Province) – “The Yellow Mountains” are a breathtaking wonder of nature. Jagged granite peaks, seas of clouds, and ancient pine trees create some of China’s most photographed landscapes.

Top 5 Deals & How to Save Money

• Rail Passes: Use the China Railway Pass for unlimited high-speed train travel between major East China cities.

• City Cards: Purchase a Shanghai Tourist Pass or Hangzhou Transportation Card for discounted metro and attraction access.

• Stay Local: Choose guesthouses or boutique inns over international

chains for authentic stays and better rates.

• Street Eats: Enjoy local food markets for inexpensive, delicious meals—think soup dumplings, noodles, and scallion pancakes.

• Of-Peak Travel: Visit in late autumn or early spring when fights and hotels are cheaper and crowds thinner.

5 Essential Travel Tips

• Visa & Payments: Apply for a Chinese tourist visa in advance. Most transactions are cashless—set up Alipay or WeChat Pay

• Connectivity: Get a local SIM card or eSIM for internet access and translation apps.

• Language: English isn’t widespread—learn key Mandarin phrases or carry a translation app.

• Cultural Etiquette: Bow slightly when greeting, avoid loud voices in temples, and respect local customs.

• Health & Safety: Tap water isn’t drinkable; bottled water is cheap and widely available.

Best Ways to Get Around

East China boasts one of the world’s best transport systems. The high-speed rail network connects major cities in under two hours. Metro systems are efcient and inexpensive, while Didi (China’s Uber) makes local travel easy. For scenic routes, bike rentals in Hangzhou and Suzhou are a pleasant way to explore.

Conclusion

East China is a traveller’s dream—where every city reveals a diferent rhythm, from Shanghai’s cosmopolitan pulse to the tranquil whispers of Huangshan’s peaks. Blending ancient charm with modern comfort, it’s a journey that engages every sense and leaves lasting memories of beauty, balance, and discovery.

For Australians, the government’s Smartraveller website provides advisories and warnings for over 175 destinations, with levels indicating risks like “Reconsider your need to travel” (Level 3) or “Do not travel” (Level 4)

Accommodation Options

• Luxury (5«): The Peninsula Shanghai, Hyatt Regency Hangzhou – world-class comfort with scenic views.

• Mid-range (4«): Holiday Inn Nanjing Aqua City, Garden Hotel Suzhou – stylish yet afordable.

• Budget (2–3«): Meego Hostel Shanghai, Mingtown Hangzhou Youth Hostel – clean, central, and social.

Currency & Budget Considerations

The local currency is the Renminbi (RMB or Yuan, ¥)

• Luxury travellers: ¥2,000+ per day (5-star hotels, fne dining, private tours)

• Mid-range: ¥800–1,200 per day (3–4-star hotels, taxis, local restaurants)

• Budget: ¥400–700 per day (hostels, street food, public transport)

2026 Toyota Corolla Unveiled in Tokyo Boasts 2100km Range

Jef Gibbs

Toyota has pulled the covers of its next-generation Corolla Concept at the Japan Mobility Show, signalling a bold new era for the world’s best-selling small car — and teasing an extraordinary claimed driving range of up to 2100 kilometres

A futuristic leap for an icon

The 2026 Toyota Corolla Concept showcases a daring design language that blends race-inspired performance cues with futuristic minimalism.

Sharp LED headlights, a full-width light bar, fush-mounted handles, and massive wheels create a striking profle, while a panoramic windscreen wraps over the cabin to enhance visibility and style.

Four powertrain options on the horizon

The concept hints at a future where the Corolla will cater to all drivers. Four distinct powertrains are being prepared — electric (EV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV), hybrid

, and internal combustion engine (ICE) — giving customers the freedom to choose between traditional and electrifed performance. While Toyota discontinued

will take that transition further, introducing a battery-electric version for the frst time

This wide-ranging lineup aligns with Toyota’s long-

Toyota’s global CEO, Koji Sato , described the new Corolla as “a car for everyone,” reaffirming the model’s mission to stay relevant in an era of diverse propulsion technologies. “Whether it’s a battery EV, plug-in hybrid or petrol engine vehicle — whatever the power source — let’s make good-looking cars that everyone will want to drive,” he said.

petrol-only variants in 2024 in favour of hybrid technology, the next Corolla

term goal of providing practical and accessible pathways toward carbon

neutrality.

Inside the Corolla Concept

The cabin reveals an ergonomic, driver-focused layout. The driver’s seat sits higher for improved command of the road, while the front passenger seat features a more reclined design for comfort. Dual fuel or charging ports — one on each front quarter panel — underline its fexible multi-energy engineering.

When to expect it

The production-ready

13th-generation Corolla is expected to be revealed in 2026, with an Australian launch likely in late 2026 or early 2027. Given its global popularity and Toyota’s strong local following, anticipation will be high across the Northern Rivers and beyond If Toyota delivers even close to that remarkable 2100km driving range, the 2026 Corolla could redefne expectations for everyday motoring efciency — proving that the world’s best-selling car still has plenty of innovation left in the tank.

Ram to Enter SUV Market by 2028 in Bold Expansion Beyond Pick-ups

Jef Gibbs

American automotive

powerhouse Ram is preparing to move beyond its pick-up heritage, with the Stellantis-owned brand confrming plans to launch its frst-ever SUV by 2028 — a signifcant expansion that could see Ram competing head-to-head with Jeep in the booming large SUV market.

Ram’s bold new direction

Ram’s parent company, Stellantis, announced the new model as part of a $US13 billion (about $AU19.8 billion) investment in its US operations, marking a strategic shift for the brand long associated with rugged utes and heavyduty workhorses.

While the company has yet to reveal key details

such as the SUV’s size or positioning, executives confrmed that two powertrains are under development — a petrolonly version and a rangeextender hybrid, the latter likely designed to balance power with efciency as global emission standards tighten.

A move into Jeep territory

Traditionally, Stellantis has maintained clear divisions between its American marques: Jeep for SUVs, Ram for utes, Dodge for performance cars and Chrysler for people movers. But those lines are blurring. Jeep’s Gladiator already overlaps with Ram’s pick-up range, and Dodge’s Durango SUV competes with Jeep’s own large models.

The arrival of a Rambranded SUV will only

deepen that overlap, signalling Stellantis’s intent to leverage brand loyalty and broaden customer choice. Analysts expect the new model to appeal to buyers seeking the utility and power of a Ram with the family practicality of an SUV — echoing the strategy of General Motors’ GMC division, which markets both trucks and SUVs under its “professional grade” banner. Built in Michigan, inspired by Wagoneer

Production of the upcoming SUV will take place at Stellantis’s Warren, Michigan plant the same facility that builds the Jeep Wagoneer — a large, body-on-frame three-

Render showing proposed 2028 RAM SUV

row SUV derived from the Ram 1500 platform. While the Ram SUV may not directly share components, industry insiders believe the Wagoneer’s chassis could form the foundation of Ram’s new model.

The timing aligns

with Stellantis’s broader electrifcation roadmap, which includes a plug-in hybrid Wagoneer in 2026 and a replacement Dodge Durango in 2029 — both of which could share technology and design DNA with the future Ram SUV.

For Northern Rivers drivers, this move signals that the rugged Ram badge might soon appear on more than just utes — ofering a powerful, family-ready alternative for Australia’s SUV-loving motorists by 2028

WHATS ON THE MENU

TONIGHT?

Forget everything you know about Caesar salad — this version has had a few too many vinos, thrown its toga on the foor, and strutted into your kitchen demanding attention. Yes, friends, the Chicken Caesar Rissole is here to prove that even the most virtuous salad can go a little naughty after dark.

Imagine your regular Caesar salad, all innocent and crisp, suddenly deciding it wants to be thick, juicy, and covered in dressing. That’s right — this is your favourite lunch getting a total glow-up and possibly a restraining order from the lettuce section.

Ingredients

• 500g chicken mince (the protein equivalent of a firty wink)

• 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs (because soggy ones are sad)

• 1 rasher of bacon, fnely chopped and sizzling with sin

• 1 garlic clove, crushed to within an inch of its life

• 2 tbsp grated parmesan (don’t skimp — Caesar was a man of excess)

• 1 egg, lightly beaten (and slightly turned on)

• 2 tbsp mayonnaise (preferably the saucy kind)

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (adds a bit of kink)

• Salt and pepper, for seasoning and sass

• Oil for frying — because nothing sexy happens in a dry pan

Method

• Mix chicken mince, bacon, garlic, parmesan, egg, breadcrumbs, mayo, mustard, and seasonings in a bowl. Use your hands — get in there, you saucy Roman warrior.

• Roll the mixture into balls roughly the size of a Roman grape. Flatten slightly — this is not a meatball party.

Cheeky Chicken Caesar Rissoles

– The Salad That Got Hot and Bothered

(Rated PG-13 because letuce shouldn’t make you feel things)

• Heat oil in a pan and fry until golden, sizzling, and frm to the touch (insert your own joke here).

• Serve with lettuce, croutons, and more dressing than decency allows. Sprinkle extra parmesan like you’re making it rain in an Italian nightclub.

BTips for Success

• Don’t overcook them — a dry rissole is like a bad date: disappointing and best forgotten.

• Add anchovies if you like your meals with attitude and your breath with consequences.

• Leftovers make excellent sandwiches, assuming you can resist eating them cold out of the fridge at midnight wearing only your dignity.

These Chicken Caesar Rissoles are everything a salad wishes it could be — hot, rich, and a little bit naughty. Go ahead, stab one with your fork and tell yourself it’s still technically healthy.

ehold, the Quick Pastry Dessert with Berries & Custard — the fve-minute firt of the dessert world. She’s golden, faky, and a total show-of. One minute she’s chilling in your fridge, the next she’s swanning out of the oven looking like she’s been to pastry school in Paris. Spoiler: she hasn’t — and neither have you, but no one needs to know.

This dessert is your secret weapon for dinner parties, awkward dates, or Tuesday nights when you just want to feel superior to people eating yoghurt.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet frozen puf pastry, thawed but not emotionally

• 1/2; cup thick custard (store-bought — we don’t have time for pride)

• 150g mixed berries (fresh or frozen, we’re not fruit snobs)

• 1 tbsp icing sugar

• Optional: a cheeky dollop of whipped cream

Method

• Preheat oven to 200°C (fan-forced, obviously).

• Cut pastry into four squares — we’re going rustic, not geometry-exam.

• Place on a tray, prick gently (the pastry, not your ego), and bake until pufed and golden.

• Spoon over warm custard, top with berries, and dust with icing sugar like it’s snowfall in a Hallmark movie.

Result: Flaky, creamy, fruity perfection — the dessert equivalent of a wink and a hair toss. Fast, fabulous, and guaranteed to get you compliments (and maybe a night to remember).

How making slime and playing games can improve kids’ mental health

Jef Gibbs

When 11-year-old Oscar was struggling with anxiety and bullying, the last thing his mother expected was that making slime could help. But for many children in Northern NSW, creative activities like slime-making are part of a holistic therapy approach helping them rebuild confdence and resilience through the Mijung Jarjums – Kids in Mind (MJKIM) program.

Delivered by Social Futures, the early intervention mental health initiative supports children and young people aged 0–18 across the Richmond Valley hinterland. The

name Mijung Jarjums, from Bundjalung language, means “happy kids”—a ftting title for a program focused on emotional wellbeing, creativity, and connection.

A family’s story

Oscar’s mother, Jennifer Stokes, said MJKIM became a lifeline after her son’s anxiety and bullying escalated following the foods.

“He was overwhelmed and needed more than a school change,” she said.

“Meeting Frank from MJKIM was a turning point—Oscar felt safe with him right away. The sessions helped him open up and express himself.” The activities may

sound simple—making slime, solving puzzles, or playing games—but each is carefully designed to build trust and emotional awareness. “It gave Oscar the confdence to be himself again,” Jennifer said. “He’s happier, more settled, and coping much better.”

Therapy through creativity

MJKIM program

worker Frank Coughlan has spent over a decade helping children manage challenges such as anxiety, anger, and family pressures. “Kids often struggle to describe their emotions,” he explained. “Through creative therapies—like art, play,

and drumming—they can express feelings in a safe and supported way.”

Using approaches such as Theraplay, sessions might include games, singing, or interactive play that strengthen emotional bonds. “We focus on

connection and safety,” Frank said. “It’s about helping families understand each other and supporting the child in their world.”

Early support makes a diference

Both Frank and Jennifer

agree early intervention is vital. “If children can learn to recognise and manage emotions early, they’re better equipped to face challenges later in life,” Frank said.

MJKIM is available across Lismore, Richmond Valley, and Kyogle LGAs, funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services. For families like Oscar’s, programs like these ofer hope and a way forward.

“It’s been a long road,” Jennifer said, “but thanks to MJKIM, we’re in a much better place.”

For more information, visit socialfutures.org.au/ mijung-jarjums or call 1800 719 625

Untangling the Mystery of Tick-Borne Illnesses in Australia

Jef Gibbs

Tick-bite illnesses are among the most complex and misunderstood medical conditions in Australia, often leaving patients battling fatigue, pain, and confusion — sometimes for years. Despite growing awareness and ongoing research, the science behind these debilitating conditions remains unsettled.

For retired Sydney GP Dr Richard Schloefel , now a researcher at Macquarie University, tick-borne illnesses represent one of the most challenging frontiers in medicine. “I think tick-borne illness can be

treated,” he said. “But frst, you have to believe the patient is sick.”

Thousands of Australians have reported longterm symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, and neurological problems they attribute to tick bites. The federal government formally recognised these conditions in 2018, introducing the term DSCATT — Debilitating Symptom Complexes Attributed to Ticks — to help doctors manage patients presenting with chronic, unexplained symptoms.

Searching for a cause

Despite this recognition, the underlying cause of

DSCATT remains unclear.

Some patients have spent years — and thousands of dollars — seeking answers through private testing and alternative treatments.

Veterinary scientist Professor Peter Irwin from Murdoch University has spent decades studying Australia’s 70 native tick species, of which 17 are known to bite humans. While tick bites are usually harmless, they can cause severe allergic reactions, bacterial infections, and in rare cases, paralysis.

“The main tick of medical importance on the east coast is the Australian paralysis tick,” Professor Irwin said. “Another signifcant species is the kangaroo tick, found across much of the country.”

Ticks can transmit bacteria such as Rickettsia, which causes Queensland tick typhus and Australian spotted

fever, both treatable with antibiotics. However, what continues to divide experts is whether Lyme disease, a condition well-documented in the Northern Hemisphere, exists in Australia.

The Lyme disease debate

Many Australians with chronic tick-related symptoms believe they have contracted Lyme disease. But, according to Professor Irwin, there’s no evidence that Australian ticks carry Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacterium responsible for the illness overseas.

“No one has ever found Borrelia burgdorferi in Australian ticks,” he said. “While other Borrelia species exist here, it’s not known whether they infect humans.”

This lack of proof leaves patients in a diagnostic limbo. The symptoms of DSCATT often overlap with other chronic

conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome and long COVID, making diagnosis difcult and treatment inconsistent.

“The problem,” Dr Schloefel said, “is that if blood tests don’t show abnormalities, doctors assume nothing is wrong. But that doesn’t mean the illness doesn’t exist.”

Advancing research and new approaches

To uncover the biological triggers behind DSCATT, Professor Irwin’s team began tracking patients after confrmed tick bites. Funded in 2019, their study followed 118 participants for a year, testing for bacteria, viruses, and immune responses. Preliminary results suggest a small number continued to experience symptoms such as headaches and dizziness a year later — consistent with DSCATT patterns.

Meanwhile, at Royal North Shore Hospital, Dr Schloefel is leading a privately funded clinical trial monitoring 60 patients with DSCATT. His team is investigating immune dysfunction and chronic infammation as potential drivers and exploring new diagnostic biomarkers.

Some patients in the study are being treated with low-dose, longterm antibiotics, a controversial approach not endorsed by Australian health authorities, who argue there is “no proven beneft and known harm.”

Managing an invisible illness

Without defnitive causes or cures, attention is shifting toward improving quality of life for suferers. The University of Melbourne is trialling a nine-month psychologybased program aimed at helping patients better manage symptoms. Professor Richard Kanaan, who leads the project, said the therapy — based on acceptance and commitment principles — is not about dismissing physical illness but improving wellbeing. “People are understandably concerned this means the illness is ‘all in the head’. It’s not,” he said. “A holistic approach is essential for complex illnesses.”

Despite ongoing controversy, researchers agree that early intervention, better diagnostics, and compassionate care are key. As Dr Schloefel put it: “These patients aren’t imagining their symptoms. We just haven’t yet found all the answers.”

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

Bulls: 46 head, prices ranged 198.2c–436.2c/kg, averaging 369.9c/kg, to return up to $4,020/head

The Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange yarded 1,322 head for the Prime Cattle Sale on Wednesday, with the market showing frm to dearer trends across most categories. Buyer competition remained strong despite mixed seasonal conditions across the region.

The yarding comprised a solid mix of cows, steers, heifers and bulls, with several standout sales for quality drafts of fnished cattle and well-presented vealers.

Market Overview

Bobby Calves: 15 head sold from $15 to $100, averaging $33.33/head Cows & Calves: 1 unit sold for $2,100

Bullocks: 60 head, steady at 320.2c–440.2c/kg, averaging 402.4c/kg, and topping $3,155/head

Cows: The largest category with 545 head, ranged from 80.2c–410.2c/kg, averaging 360.8c/kg, for returns between $296.74–$2,972/head

Heifers: 346 head sold between 30c and 466.2c/kg, averaging 364.7c/kg, topping at $2,213/head

Steers: 308 head, making 180c–566.2c/ kg, averaging 456.8c/kg, and selling to $2,604/head

Vealer Bulls: 17 head averaged 325.8c/ kg, with tops to 394.2c/kg and returns to $1,482/head

The sale achieved an average of 380c/ kg, with a top price of 566.2c/kg, and a

Feeder heifers averaged 373.8c/ kg,topping at 420c/kg and returning between $1,212.19 and $1,906.42

total yard value of $1.82 million across 479,950 kg of liveweight

Market Summary

Overall yard average: $1,379/head

Total yarding value: $1,823,806.62

Agent Commentary

Agents reported a strong gallery of buyers

Numbers lifted this week across both cattle and sheep sales as producers adjusted to a mix of dry paddocks, hail-damaged crops, and renewed transport access after earlier storms. Despite the weather challenges, the Warwick saleyards recorded strong yardings with frm to slightly dearer trends across most categories.

A total of 1,399 head of cattle were ofered at the weekly sale, with 2,440 head of sheep and lambs penned. The cattle market remained generally frm, rewarding well-presented stock while lighter-conditioned or backward types saw softer demand. Pork entries also improved slightly, while poultry vendors once again flled their cages with steady demand across all varieties.

Catle Market

Bulls averaged 374c/kg, topping at 402.2c/kg or between $2,068.79 and $3,932.24

Cows lifted to average 350.2c/kg, reaching a top of 396.2c/kg or $1,759.12 to $3,452.16

Feeder steers performed strongly, averaging 461.4c/kg, with a top of 526.2c/kg, realising $1,647.21 to $2,406.83

Heifers averaged 379.5c/kg, topping at 430c/kg, or $1,744.77 to $3,333.32

Manufacturing steers averaged 333.2c/ kg, topping at 384.2c/kg, or $2,598.96 to $3,054.39

Steers averaged 424.6c/kg, topping at 455.2c/kg, or $2,250.08 to $2,813.49

In the younger cattle section, vealer heifers averaged 399.2c/kg and topped at 486.2c/kg, returning $779.90 to $1,372.15

Vealer steers averaged 428.4c/kg, topping at 555.2c/kg, making $836.82 to $1,115.43

Yearling heifers averaged 389.5c/kg, topping at 448.2c/kg, or $1,060.67 to $1,914.00

Yearling steers led the sale at an average of 478.6c/kg, peaking at 530.2c/ kg, with returns between $1,215.36 and $1,784.36

Overall yarding averaged $1,456.50 per head.

Sheep & Lamb Report – APL/ McDougall & Sons

A total of 2,440 head were yarded,

drawn from the Western regions, New England, Far West, and local shires around Warwick. Despite patchy rainfall and some hail, the market remained frm for most types, showing resilience across quality lines.

Lambs topped at $335, averaging $213.28, up $12/head week-on-week.

Hoggets reached $228, averaging $165.39, down $28/head Ram lambs topped at $198, averaging $158.93, up $14/head

Ewes sold to $248, averaging $150.67, up $37/head

Wethers hit $215, averaging $136.26, slightly down $6/head

Rams reached $190, averaging $168.53, up $31/head

Overall, the total yarding averaged $189.82/head, a rise of $13 week-onweek.

Notable Sales

• Freeman Pastoral topped the lamb section, selling 65.3kg Dorper lambs to Thomas Foods for $335, with additional pens making $310 to $282

• Thompson Family sold 50.7kg Dorset lambs to Thomas Foods for $240

• David Lindsay achieved $300 for frstcross lambs to Ryan F/T, and $271 to GR Prime and Hutley Bros

• Armstrong Family’s 48.4kg Dorpers sold to Eversons for $259

across export, feeder, and local trade orders. Prime cows and heavy bullocks sold to solid competition, while younger cattle met a buoyant restocker market. Heavier steers and well-bred vealers attracted the strongest demand, refecting confdence in short-term fnishing potential as summer feed improves across the region.

• Linview Ag sold 47.5kg A/White cross lambs to GR Prime for $252

• McNulty Grazing’s 44.8kg Dorper lambs sold to McMahon Bros for $250,and hoggets 44.2kg to Eversons for $160

• Allan Aisthorpe sold Polwarth wethers with ¾ wool to Thomas Foods for $215

• Rubie Family sold Dorset ewes to Eversons for $185

• Schelbach Family, Andrew Clark Dickson, and Eli Adamson also recorded solid sales with Dorper lambs averaging $223–$230

Pork and Poultry

Pork numbers rose slightly with Gilts to $280, Sows to $405, Boars to $190, Barrows between $160 and $175, Light Pork from $198 to $290, Pork from $302 to $338, and Stores from $76 to $250

In poultry, chicks and ducklings sold to $35 per group, pullets to $22.50/ head, bantam hens to $40/head, roosters to $32.50/head, ducklings from $22–$35/head, and turkeys to $30/ head

Report prepared by APL/ McDougall & Sons.

For all livestock bookings or market updates, contact the Warwick ofce.

Nbryo Secures $10 Million to Accelerate Genetic Improvement in Global Livestock Industries

Ian Rogers

Australian agri-biotech company Nbryo Pty Ltd has achieved a major milestone in its mission to revolutionise livestock breeding, successfully completing a $10 million capital raise to drive genetic improvement in the global beef and dairy industries.

The funding round was co-led by Tenacious Ventures and new investor AgriZeroNZ, with participation from the Queensland Investment Corporation and continued backing from the founding Murdoch family, Mandalay Venture Partners, and other private shareholders.

The raise also converted $12.3 million in SAFE notes, bringing total capital raised to more than $22 million since 2024

Alongside private investment, Nbryo and its research partners have secured over $18 million

in grant funding from the Gates Foundation, Meat & Livestock Australia, and other federal and state programs to support its world-leading research and development eforts.

Pioneering the Future of Livestock Reproduction

Nbryo’s chief executive ofcer Paul Niven said the successful fundraising represents strong global confdence in the company’s vision to accelerate sustainable livestock productivity through innovation.

“This capital raising provides the resources we need to accelerate delivery of our technology platform and expand our impact in livestock reproduction globally,” Mr Niven said.

The funding will enable Nbryo to:

l Advance its proprietary IVF platform, integrating biotechnology with digital agriculture tools.

Nbryo is on track to launch embryo multiplication technology in late 2025, opening new opportunities for efciency and herd improvement. (Image: Nbryo)

l Expand commercial IVF and Embryo Transfer (ET) services for the Australian cattle sector.

l Launch embryo multiplication technology in late 2025, ofering producers new opportunities for efciency and herd

genetic gain.

•Finalise development of its next-generation embryo transfer device, scheduled for market release in October 2026

Transforming Catle Genetics

Mr Niven said the new investment highlights

growing global recognition of Nbryo’s potential to reshape how cattle genetics are developed and deployed.

“Nbryo-powered genetic gain will deliver operating efciencies and sustainability outcomes at a pace that cannot be achieved with

conventional breeding programs,” he said.

“This strategic investment underscores our role in delivering solutions at the intersection of biotechnology and digital agriculture.”

Founded in Australia, Nbryo is positioning itself as a global leader in bovine reproductive technologies, enabling more productive, sustainable, and proftable livestock systems. The company’s integrated platform combines IVF, embryo transfer, and digital genetic analytics, helping producers rapidly enhance herd performance and sustainability.

As the company looks to scale internationally, Mr Niven expressed gratitude to investors, partners, and research collaborators for their continued support.

“Nbryo thanks all its investors, partners, and stakeholders for their confdence in our vision to transform global livestock reproduction,” he said.

RAS Partners with ACCIONA to Champion Young Women Across Regional NSW

Ian Rogers

The Royal Agricultural Society of NSW (RAS) has proudly announced ACCIONA as the new major sponsor of the prestigious Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Young Woman Competition, a program that celebrates and empowers young women from rural, regional, and remote communities across New South Wales.

The Young Woman Program, now in its 60th year, is a leading leadership initiative that recognises outstanding young women who demonstrate strong leadership, community involvement, and a passion for rural life.

With ACCIONA’s backing, the program will expand its reach and impact, providing more opportunities for women to develop skills and connections that strengthen the fabric of regional Australia.

RAS President John Bennett said the partnership marks an exciting new chapter for the program.

“We are delighted that ACCIONA have come on board as a sponsor of our Young Woman program,” Mr Bennett said.

“Their commitment to empowering young women in regional communities aligns perfectly with the RAS’s mission to foster leadership and strengthen the future of rural and regional Australia. With ACCIONA’s support, we can continue to celebrate and develop exceptional women who are driving

positive change in their communities and industries.”

ACCIONA, a global leader in sustainable infrastructure solutions, has a long-standing history of delivering complex and sustainable projects across Australia. The company’s involvement in the Young Woman program refects its commitment to social and economic development, especially in regional communities.

ACCIONA Chief

Operating Ofcer for Australia and New Zealand, Andre Noonan, said the partnership aligns with the company’s values of innovation, courage, and leadership.

“At ACCIONA we are passionate about fnding better, more sustainable ways to deliver our projects,” Mr Noonan said. “Empowering people to be brave, curious and take the lead is key—and these are the same qualities embodied by the incredible

young women who take part in this program.”

The 2026 Young Woman program is already underway, with nearly 200 participants representing 172 local shows across NSW. Regional winners will advance to one of seven Zone Finals, with

each zone champion progressing to the State Final at the Sydney Royal Easter Show, where the 2026 ACCIONA Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Young Woman will be crowned.

This new partnership between RAS and

ACCIONA promises to elevate the program’s infuence, ensuring that the next generation of female leaders from regional NSW are supported, recognised, and inspired to continue making a lasting diference in their communities.

One Size Won’t Fit All in WHS Update

Ian Rogers

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) is urging the Federal Government to take a practical approach to the ongoing review of Australia’s Model Work Health and Safety (WHS) Laws, warning that a one-size-fts-all framework could harm rural industries rather than help them.

NFF General Manager of Workplace Relations and Legal Afairs, Michael Pyers, welcomed the review as an opportunity to modernise the WHS framework but cautioned that reforms must account for the realities of familyrun farms and seasonal agricultural workforces.

“It’s vital that the

Work Health and Safety framework is harmonised, contemporary, and practical for all industries,” Mr Pyers said. “But there must be fexibility in refecting agriculture’s unique conditions. We fear that excessive paperwork and prescriptive rules will deter compliance rather than improve safety. More red tape, form duplication, and urban-centric regulation will detract from genuine safety outcomes.”

In its submission to Safe Work Australia, the NFF made dozens of recommendations to ensure agricultural workplaces are properly accommodated within the updated laws. The

submission emphasises that while agriculture remains one of the nation’s highest-risk sectors, it is also one of the most diverse.

“Agriculture ranges from small family farms to large-scale operations and complex supply chains across multiple jurisdictions,” Mr Pyers said. “Achieving safer outcomes relies on regulation that is proportionate, evidencebased, and co-designed with industry.”

The NFF said it looks forward to working with Safe Work Australia on an improved and balanced framework that enhances safety standards without burdening farmers with unnecessary bureaucracy.

Top Gardening Trends for Subtropical Climates in the NSW Northern Rivers

Jef Gibbs

The Northern Rivers region of NSW—renowned for its lush landscapes, coastal breezes, and yearround warmth—ofers one of Australia’s most rewarding environments for gardening. With its humid subtropical climate, fertile soils, and extended growing seasons, local gardeners are embracing new trends that combine sustainability, resilience, and beauty.

From regenerative techniques to tropical edible gardens and water-smart design, here are the leading gardening trends shaping Northern Rivers gardens in 2025–26.

1. Regenerative Gardening and Soil Health

After seasons of foods, heatwaves and unpredictable weather, local gardeners are turning to regenerative gardening to restore soil vitality. This trend focuses on composting, worm farming, mulching, and biochar use to rebuild soil structure and improve water retention. Gardeners in areas like Lismore, Kyogle, and Nimbin are using cover crops and green manures to protect soil between growing seasons.

months.

2. Tropical Edible Gardens

The subtropical climate allows for year-round food production, and homegrown food security has never been more popular.

Northern Rivers gardeners are planting bananas, papayas, taro, turmeric, lemongrass, and chillies alongside more traditional crops.

In coastal areas such as Ballina, Byron Bay and Lennox Head, tropical fruit trees and raised garden beds flled with salad greens,

herbs, and citrus are thriving.

Food forests—layered plantings that mimic natural ecosystems—are emerging as a sustainable and lowmaintenance alternative to traditional veggie gardens.

Tip: Incorporate locally sourced organic matter— like sugarcane mulch and composted macadamia husks—to lock in moisture and nutrients during hotter

Trend plants: Dragon fruit, kafr lime, ginger, and Brazilian spinach.

3. Water-Wise Landscaping

With changing rainfall patterns and long dry spells between downpours,

water-smart gardening is essential.

Locals are investing in rainwater tanks, drip irrigation, and droughttolerant native plants such as lilly pilly, grevillea, and lomandra. Permeable pathways and swales are also being used to capture and redirect runof.

In food-prone areas, gardeners are designing raised beds and resilient drainage systems, ensuring gardens can withstand both extremes—too much water or too little.

4. Native Habitat Gardens

Creating biodiversityfriendly gardens that attract pollinators and native wildlife is another strong trend.

Northern Rivers gardeners are planting species like callistemons, tea trees, wattles, banksias, and blue fax lilies, which attract bees, butterfies, and small birds

Many local councils, including Byron Shire and Tweed Shire, are encouraging residents to use native species for revegetation to restore wildlife corridors and reduce erosion on rural blocks.

Tip: Choose local native varieties grown from seed collected in the region— they’re naturally adapted to local conditions.

5. Tropical Resort-Style Gardens

For those seeking a lush,

relaxed aesthetic, resortstyle gardens continue to fourish in the subtropics. Using palms, heliconias, bromeliads, frangipanis, and gingers, gardeners are recreating the ambience of tropical retreats right in their backyards.

Outdoor living spaces —such as shaded pergolas, plunge pools, and stone features—are being seamlessly integrated with these plantings to create cool, tranquil microclimates ideal for summer relaxation.

6. Climate-Resilient Planting Design

With more frequent storms, heatwaves, and humidity spikes, gardeners are selecting plants that can adapt to changing conditions.

Resilient perennials like hibiscus, bougainvillea, and crotons add colour and can withstand coastal winds and variable moisture.

Inland gardeners in areas such as Casino, Kyogle, and Woodenbong are planting heat-tolerant edibles like okra, sweet potato, and pigeon pea for both yield and soil improvement.

7. Garden-to-Table Sustainability

Sustainability remains a defning Northern Rivers trend. Composting, reusing greywater, swapping seeds, and supporting local garden co-ops are all part of the growing “garden-to-table” movement

Backyard gardeners are

also incorporating chickens and beehives to complete their micro-ecosystems, while community gardens—from Lismore to Mullumbimby—are thriving as shared spaces for learning and resilience building.

8. Low-Maintenance Indoor and Balcony Gardens

For smaller spaces and renters, indoor and balcony gardening continues to grow in popularity.

Plants like peace lilies, ferns, philodendrons, and Zanzibar gems perform well indoors in humid subtropical climates, while hanging planters and vertical garden walls bring greenery into tight spaces.

Tip: Rotate indoor plants

A GARDEN EXPERIENCE

to shaded outdoor spots periodically to strengthen foliage and prevent fungal issues from high humidity.

Final Word

In the NSW Northern Rivers, gardening trends refect more than aesthetics—they embody resilience, connection, and adaptation. Whether you’re tending a Byron balcony garden, restoring a Nimbin acreage, or managing a productive plot in Casino, today’s subtropical gardener is blending innovation with respect for the land’s rhythms.

As climate pressures grow, so too does the creativity of gardeners who know that in the Northern Rivers, every season ofers something new to grow, share, and celebrate.

03. 1929 ~ 06. 11. 2025

Late of Bupa, Ballina passed away on 6 November, aged 96 years.

John was the devoted husband of Val (dec) for 74 years. Loving and treasured father of Bronwyn, Lynette, Cheryl, Graham, grandfather and great grandfather to their families. Family and friends are invited to attend a celebration of John’s life to be held at Rainbow Chapel, Rainbow Avenue, Ballina on FRIDAY (November 14, 2025) commencing at 10.00 am.

After the service a private cremation will take place.

Ballina 0266867036

Funeral Notice

In Loving Mem y of HANCOCK, Douglas Charles (Doug) 20-12-1936 ~ 09-11-2025 88 Years

Formerly of Dyraaba. Late of Casino. Passed away peacefully at St Michael’s Nursing Home Casino. Husband of Elizabeth (Betty) (Dec’d). Loving Father & Father-in-Law to Susan, Peter (Dec’d), Clare & Joe (Dec’d), Christine & Peter, Robert and Paul (Dec’d).

Loving Pop to his (15) Grandchildren & their partners and (26) Great Grandchildren.

Family and Friends are warmly invited to attend Doug’s Funeral Service to be held at St Mary’s Catholic Church MONDAY (17TH November, 2025). Commencing at 10:30am.

After the service the cortege will proceed to the Casino Lawn Cemetery, 44 Reynolds Road Casino.

Passed away peacefully, with his loving family by his side, at St. Vincent’s Hospital, Lismore, aged 88 years. Loved and loving husband of Thelma for 64 years. Adoring father & father in-law of Melissa & Nigel Condie, and Robyn & Cameron Lawrence. Cherished Pa to his grandchildren, Ashley, Jarred, Lycia, Tyler; Samuel, Josiah, Joanna, Zakary, Nathaniel, and Judah, & their partners.

Loving Great Grandpa to their families.

Loved by the extended Irvin, Allen, and Hamilton families.

“Forever with the Lord”

Family & Friends are invited to attend the memorial service of thanksgiving for the life of Colin, to be held at the Salvation Army Centre, Cambridge Drive, Goonellabah, Thursday 13th November 2025, commencing at 11:30 AM

Those unable to attend with the family in person can do so via the live stream link:

https://streaming.naoca.com.au/e/8535cd56-ad1d-4ef6b0b7-79ea603c2996

FRIDAY

HEY TRADIES! Where tradies become local legends. You’ve got the tools, the ute, and the skills to get the job done — but do enough locals know your name? Stop sitting around waiting for jobs to fall in your lap. Sling an ad in The Northern Rivers Times and let us do the heavy lifting on the publicity. Whether you’re a chippie, sparkie, plumber, or painter, we’ll make sure the phones start ringing and the esky’s stocked for smoko. Give us a buzz — The Northern Rivers Times: helping local blokes and sheilas keep the work rolling in. Tradies! Don’t just sink schooners at the pub — sink an ad in The Northern Rivers Times and watch the jobs roll in. Sparkies, Chippies, Plumbers, Painters! We’ll get your phone ringing faster than a Friday arvo knock-off bell. Need more work? Shout your business louder than your mate at the footy — advertise in The Northern Rivers Times.

CRAWFORD HOUSE MUSEUM

This year Alstonville Public School celebrates 150 years of education on the Plateau, and Alstonville Plateau Historical Society is presenting a small and eclectic exhibition about the school, running until 25/1/26. Crawford House Museum is an original farmhouse where you can see many interesting household objects which reflect family life from the beginning of the 20th century to the 1960s. There are also research facilities for information about Ballina Shire, as well as books about local history and other merch. for sale which would make great Christmas presents. If you’re a support worker and you bring a client to the museum, your admission is free. The museum is at 10 Wardell Road Alstonville and is open on Fridays 10am-4pm and Sundays 1pm-4pm or at other times by appointment for groups (closed 20/12/25-8/1/26

WOLLONGBAR PROBUS CLUB

Wollongbar Probus Club meets on the third Thursday of the month at the Alstonville Plateau Bowls and Sports Club, 1014 Deegan Drive Alstonville, at 10am. Our next meeting is on Thursday 20th November and will be followed by a Christmas Lunch at the bowls club. Visitors are always welcome to attend our meetings. For information phone Keith on 66280393.

Alstonville RSL

Alstonville RSL sub-Branch meets on the second Saturday of the month, with morning tea at 10am followed by the meeting, then a light luncheon from 1200. All ex-service persons and families are welcome to attend the lunch.

Quilters Alstonville

is a mixed club and both men and women are invited to join us for a range of interesting social functions. Further information is available from the Secretary Brian on 0432277170.

BALLINA LADIES PROBUS

The Ballina Ladies Probus meet at 10:00 am on the first Wednesday of each month at the Ballina RSL Club. We currently have vacancies for new members and warmly welcome visitors to join us at a meeting or one of our many outings. Come along and enjoy fun, fellowship and friendship at our monthly meetings, social events, and special activities throughout the year. Our December meeting will be the final one for the year. We hope to have a wonderful celebration of an enjoyable and fulfilling year. Members will come together to share in the festive spirit, looking forward to Christmas and the New Year ahead. Following the meeting, we will be entertained by a performance from the Emmanuel Anglican College Choir and then enjoy a beautiful Christmas luncheon to conclude the year in style please contact our President, Jeanette, on 0407 417 470.

Australian Independent Retirees

The next meeting of Australian Independent Retirees is being held a week later than usual due to other bookings at the RSL. This means that our meeting will be held on Friday 14 November 2025 at the Ballina RSL Club, 1 Grant Street, Ballina, commencing at 10.00am. Doors will open at 9.30 to enable one to find friends to sit and converse with before the meeting commences. Morning tea will be available prior to the guest speaker taking the floor. This month the speaker is to be Geo Hutchinson, who will be covering a step back in time to the mid 1800's when Ballina was becoming the third largest port in NSW. A meeting fee of $5.00 is payable by the members present to help defray costs. At the conclusion of the meeting, those present are invited to join us for lunch in the Boardwalk Restaurant at each one's own cost, to continue with the friendship and fellowship in which our group excels. Next month there will not be a guest speaker as we will be having our meeting, at the usual time, followed by our Christmas luncheon in the Spinnakers room. If you wish to be included in this gathering, it will be necessary to contact Anne Nalder on 0447 309 250 either at the meeting on 14 November, or soon afterwards to ensure a place at the luncheon. Cost will be $30.00 per person. All enquiries please contact the President, Mrs Jill Huxley on 6686 8958."

Ballina Photography Club meets on the first Thursday of the month at Northlakes Community Centre, 1 Mulloway Place, Ballina from 6pm to 9pm.We are currently looking for new members and visitors are always welcome. We are a group of enthusiastic photographers who live in and around Ballina. Members share a common interest in photography and have monthly outings to take photos and share images at meetings. Please contact our President Lyn on 0412 758 697

Ballina Meals on Wheels

We are called Plateau Quilters Alstonville we meet the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the Month at the RSL Hall Alstonville from 1pm until 4pm New members would be most welcome. Bonner 66298267

ALSTONVILLE PROBUS CLUB

Alstonville Probus Club meets on the last Thursday of each month at Plateau Sports Club at 10.00 am. This commences with a cupper and chat, with the formal meeting commencing at 10.30 which includes an interesting guest speaker. All visitors are welcome.

ALSTONVILLE QUOTA CLUB

A local women’s service club that meets on the 1st Tuesday of the month at the Plateau Sports Club. Quota is committed to supporting and improving the physical and mental wellbeing of the disadvantaged in our community through local projects.

EMBROIDERERS GROUP

Knitting and Crochet for Charity Group run by Ballina Meals on Wheels. Group held Monday mornings in Ballina and open to people who are 65years and older. $5 includes morning tea. Call Kristen on Ph: 0419 679719 for more information.

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A NEW HOBBY??? COME AND JOIN THE HEADLINERS CHORUS We are an all-female group of all ages who love to sing “Acappella” in 4-part Barbershop harmony. We are well known in the Northern Rivers community and would love you to join us. Come along to a rehearsal on Monday nights from 7pm and for more information see our website or enquire to Tracey Ezzy on 0438 446 809

BALLINA ARTS & CRAFTS CENTRE INC. (BACCI)

Meetings are 9.30am-1.30pm, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays and 2nd Saturday of each month. Our venue is the Resource Centre at the rear of Crawford House Museum, Alstonville. We welcome embroiderers of all ability levels to meet, share and learn.

THE RETURNED AND SERVICES LEAGUE OF AUSTRALIA NSW Branch

ALSTONVILLE SUB-BRANCH

Alstonville RSL sub-Branch will now hold their monthly meetings on the second Wednesday of the month at 11am at the RSL Hall, 13 Bugden Ave (next door to the Alstonville Medical Centre). All exService persons are welcome to attend, and we have a convivial morning tea on completion of the meeting. Alston suppliers and ranch have a ‘Lower Deck Luncheon’ at 1200 each Friday, everyone is welcome, we sit out the back of the Hall, order lunch from local suppliers, and have great conversations with good mates. There is always plenty of support & advice on any issue!

BALLINA

PROBUS CLUB OF BALLINA WATERS

The Probus Club of Ballina Waters will hold its next monthly meeting on Wednesday 19 November at the Cherry Street Sports Club commencing at 10.00 a.m. The guest speaker at this meeting will be Georgina Manson, who will talk about a career in nursing Regular activities include the monthly lunch on the last Friday of the month and a happy hour with nibbles and drinks on the second Friday of the month. These are supplemented by other activities such as bus trips and special luncheons. A successful mystery bus trip was held on Wednesday 5th November. This club

We are a diverse group of Artists and Crafters that participate in wonderful group exhibitions. Over 50 members are from all over the Northern Rivers. Meetings are usually on the 1st Tuesday of every month at the Cherry Street Sports Club. Social gathering at 5, for a 5.30 start. Ph: Rosie 0438401716

BALLINA BRIDGE CLUB

Social play every Monday 9am to 11:30am.”. Sessions for all levels of players on Mon, Wed, Sat from 1pm to about 5pm. Be seated at 12:45. Restricted session (under 300 Masterpoints) Thu 1pm –about 5pm. Friday mornings, Help with Play on Fri am times 9am – 11:30. Open to anyone who would like some help with their game from teachers on duty. 9am to about 11:15pm Sessions are $5 for members and $7 for visitors at 13 North Ck Rd, Ballina Call Judy Forsyth: 0407664337.

Ballina Coastal Quilters

We meet at the North Lakes Community Hall in Whiting Way, Ballina on a Wednesday twice a month from 9 am to 2 pm. The group gives opportunities for friendship, support, and socialisation. and to celebrate our creative achievements in the area of quilting and related stitchery. We encourage our members to seek and share knowledge of their skills. New members would be most welcome. The cost is $5 per session Georgia 66876834

BALLINA EVENING VIEW CLUB

Meets on the second Wednesday of each month at the Ballina RSL Club at 6.30 for dinner at 7pm – Guests are always welcome. Our members support the education of disadvantaged children in Australia by fundraising activities and social events in our local community for The Smith Family – by sponsoring 5 Learning for Life students. Ph: Julie Stephan 0434988770.

BALLINA FREE COMMUNITY HOT BRUNCH

Ballina Free Community Hot Brunch, First Saturday of each month. Everyone is invited to come and enjoy a hot brunch of sausages, rissoles bacon & eggs, cereal, tea and co ee. Or just come for a chat. Frozen take away meals available. Held at the Ballina Presbyterian Hall Corner of Cherry & Crane St Ballina 10AM TO 12PM Carol: 0438812235

BALLINA LIGHTHOUSE RSL DAY CLUB

A Day Club for elderly and isolated people in our community, held every Thursday at the Richmond Room Ballina. Enjoy morning tea and a mental stimulation exercise like Tai Chi, followed by lunch and afternoon musical entertainment. Every Thursday 10am to 2pm cost $10 Richmond Room, Regatta Avenue Ballina RSVP Lorraine Fox 66874350, 0439301249

BALLINA SENIOR CITIZENS BRIDGE CLUB

Social Bridge Play in Seniors Hall. Swift Street Ballina on Wednesday & Saturdays @ 12.05 pm Enquiries Phone: 0493425002 for details.

BALLINA TOY LIBRARY

Welcomes families from Ballina Shire. 9 Regatta Avenue, Ballina. Open Tuesdays 1pm – 3pm, and Saturdays 10am – 1pm. Ph. 0411719074.

IN FOCUS TOASTMASTERS CLUB

How about trying something di erent? If you would like to improve your communication and leadership skills or simply make new friends and have fun, you are warmly invited to attend the In Focus Toastmasters Club. We meet the 3rd Wednesday evening of each month. You may attend either from the comfort of your own home via zoom or join us in person at the Cherry Street Sports Club, Ballina.

BRUNSWICK HEADS

BRUNSWICK VALLEY VIEW CLUB

Brunswick Valley VIEW Club’s monthly luncheons are held at Brunswick Heads Bowling Club on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 10.30am for 11am.Apologies to Wenda on 0449 563 580 no later than the Monday before. VIEW stands for Voice, Interests and Education of Women. The club supports seven disadvantaged students in The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program. 1800 805 366

CASINO

St Mark’s Singers Presents a Christmas Concert 6th December 2025 at 1.30pm St Mark’s Parish Hall Barker Casino cost $10 afternoon tea provided

CASINO COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB INC

Our November social will be held upstairs at the Casino RSM Club

On Sunday 16th from 10.00am – 3pm everyone is welcome Come along and enjoy some great country music and take advantage of the meals & drinks o ered by the RSM Club. New Artists are always welcome. Free entry, Ra les More Info contact Carole 0438641500

CWA Casino Day

Our next meeting this Thursday 13th November at the Casino Community & Cultural Centre. The Land Cookery entries for November are a Chocolate Butter Cake, Gluten Free Magic Bean Cake and the Apple & Cranberry Chutney (recipe supplied). All cookery/recipe enquiries – Ellie Maloney 0421595398. Everyone is welcome, come and have a cuppa see what we are doing in our community Enquires Jennifer 0438932060, Jane 0427 707 669.

DYRAABA HALL BUS TRIP

The Dyraaba Hall committee will host a bus trip to Robina Shopping centre on Saturday 22nd November. Cost is $30 and includes morning tea. There will also be ra les. Bus departs Dyraaba Hall 7am, Charcoal cnr. 7:20 and Casino Post O ice 7:30am. We can also pick up in Lismore. Bookings and enquiries PH. Veronica on 66671101. All profits after expenses will go towards the maintenance of the hall.

CASINO CHARITY CASH BINGO

if you would like to come along and join us each at Casino RSM Club each Thursday mornings 10.00an or Thursday evenings 7.00pm, you are most welcome! Great cash prizes! For any enquiries please don’t hesitate to contact Jan Danaher on 0414625680

Line dance

Line dance classes in Casino at St Marks Hall beginners welcome 5pm every Monday first 2 classes free. Info call or sms Lorraine 0418264489

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN LEARNING to KNIT, SEW or CROCHET We are looking for interested people who would like to join a class to learn Through the School Holidays both Adults and Children are welcome Starting 6th Jan 2025 Classes will be organised once we have enough interested people Call Margaret 0488 245 029 or Jacqui 0419 404 216 to express your interest and get more information

Casino Meals are desperately needing Volunteers, to contact the o ice on 66621217. Volunteering once a month for 1hour or so

CASINO COMMUNITY MEN’S SHED

Mon, Tues, Wed, attendance limited to 50 members, 8am-1.30pm. Contact 66626423

CASINO & DISTRICT FAMILY HISTORY GROUP INCW

are open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am to 2pm, Wednesdays from 12pm to 4pm and every third Saturday from 9 am to 11.30 am. We are in Room 5, Upstairs in the School of Arts building in Walker Street, Casino. Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month at 10 am. For a small fee we can do research for you as well. Call 6664 1118

Cassino Gallery Inc.

148 Barker St. Casino. Open Thursday to Saturday 10am to 3pm during exhibitions. Regular exhibitions, workshops, classes, and some markets during the year. Contacts Ralph 0418 485 770, Laszlo 6662 1943, Meg 0435 111 463. Artists, professional/amateur welcome to enquire about exhibiting their work at the Gallery.

CASINO LADIES AND FRIEND CRAFT GROUP

Meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday of each month. Bring your own morning tea. Names to be in by lunch time Monday. Phone Vivian on 66621838 or Jan on 66626424.

Casino & District Orchid Society

Meet the 4th Thursday each month. At St Marks Anglican Hall @ 6:30pm

CASINO MINI RAIL

Every Sunday we are now open from 9.00am to 2.30pm every Sunday (weather permitting). West Street Casino. Phone 0455673722.

CASINO MIXED PROBUS CLUB

Our Meeting is on fourth Thursday of each month at Casino RSM Club at 10:00am.

Contact Kathleen Gri ins, President phone 0427622470 or Daphne Boyd, Secretary phone 0400070085.

CASINO UNITING CHURCH

CAFÉ PRAISE.... Every Wednesday @ 10-11am. All Welcome 10am Morning Tea Fellowship. Welcome and Chat 10.30am Praise and Worship

CASINO VIEW CLUB

Monthly luncheon meeting at Casino RSM Club at 11am, second Thurs of every month. Contact Jan on 0418715374

CASINO AA MEETING – ID MEETING is held every Tuesday 12:00-1:30pm At the Casino Baptist Church, corner of West & Canterbury Streets Casino. Newcomers welcome. Contact George 0427 133 372.

CASINO AA WOMEN’S MEETINGS

Held every 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month, 12 –1.30pm at the Casino Baptist Church House, 137 Canterbury St, Casino. Contact Liz 0427133370.

LION’S CLUB CASINO

Lion’s Club meeting is held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday each month at Casino RSM Club from 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start. Denise Green 0448014682

LISMORE CASINO NAVAL ASSOCIATION

Meets bi-monthly at Casino RSM, new members welcome. Ph: Chris 66293269 or Jim 0427400625.

THE PLATYPUS RSL DAY CLUB operates every Tuesday at the Community Centre from 10am to 2pm. The day consists of gentle exercises, mental stimulation, games, and entertainment. Members are asked to pay $7 for their morning tea and lunch. Transport can be provided within the town limits. If you are feeling socially isolated or just need a day out, please contact Robyn on 66623871. New members are welcome.

Dungarubba

Dungarubba Country Music at Broadwater Hall Saturday 22nd November 11.30 to 4.30

(Last one for the year back February 2026) Christmas party theme Entry $5 including afternoon tea Lunch available Lucky door, Ra les Variety of Artists Enquiries Joy 0400372948

Eltham

ELTHAM MASONIC LODGE – The Eltham Masonic Lodge welcomes all masons, to attend their monthly meetings, which are held on the fourth Tuesday, each month at the Eltham Masonic Centre. The meetings commence at 7.30 pm. If you are not a mason and are interested in joining Freemasonry, for more information please visit our website or phone 0416530456

EVANS HEAD

EVANS HEAD PARKINSONS SUPPORT GROUP

Evans Head Parkinson’s Support Group will meet at Evans Head Thyme Lifestyle Village Great Room in the Community Hall, 74 Currajong St, Evans Head at 10 am to 12 noon on Thursday, on Thursday, 27th November.Our special guest speakers will be Martin Corkery who will speak on Making a Will and Powers of Attorney and Paul Manning who will address Advanced Care Directives. We may also have one of our Parkinson’s Specialist Nurses in attendance. Ivonne will lead a caregivers break away session.

All members of the Parkinson’s community, family and friends are most welcome to attend. Tea and co ee and a small snack are available for a gold coin donation. For further information, contact Di on 0423941119

EVANS HEAD SEAGULLS CRAFT & QUILTERS GROUP Meet every Tuesday 9am-12noonin the Recreation Hall (opposite the Kiosk).

We invite you to join us for a relaxing morning of crafting, friendship and sharing ideas. Beginners are very welcome. Finishing UFO’s, Embroidery, Gold Work, Hexagons, & Group Projects are just some of the crafts done.

The Rotary Club of Evans Head

Markets held on the Last Saturday of the month held at Cribb Reserve opposite Illawong Hotel at 8am – 1pm. A vast variety of stores from clothes, candle, Honey Photographs, books, and Organic Vegetables along with Rotary Bacon & Egg Rolls

Rotary Evans

Head holds meeting the 1st and 3rd Monday of the month 5.30pm at Evans Head RSL downstairs in remembrance room. New members warmly welcomed. Cont. Sue 0438853921

EVANS HEAD CWA BRANCH

meets every third Tuesday for lunch at noon new member’s welcome. info 0419 753 579

EVANS RIVER RSL DAY CLUB

The Evans River RSL Day Club meets each Monday in the Remembrance Room at Club Evans RSL Evans Head from 10am until 2pm Cost $10 includes Morning Tea and Lunch. We have several vacancies for volunteers and members, anyone who is feeling in need of some company are welcome to attend. Come along and join in the fun. Contact Merilyn 0401493316.

GOONELLABAH

TABLE TENNIS AT GOONELLABAH

Tuesday and Thursday mornings social playing: 9am-12noon; Monday and Wednesday nights social playing: 7-9pm; Training Monday mornings: 9am-12noon; Junior coaching after school Wednesday 3.30pm-4.45pm, $6 a session. Everybody is welcome – all levels. Phone centre on 66251602. Mon-Thurs 9.00am-1.00pm

THE PROBUS CLUB of Goonellabah meets on the 3rd Thursday of each month at the Workers Sports Club in Oliver Ave. All welcome. Goonellabah Probus is solely a social club. We have a guest speaker each month and go for outings throughout the year. Meetings on Thursday commence at 10am and finish at midday. For further information, Liz 0451 020 241

GRAFTON

Grafton Branch CWA

meetings are held on the 2nd Friday of each month, at Grafton District Services Club – morning tea at 9.30am, followed by the meeting at 10am. New members are always welcome. Handicraft mornings are held on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month at the Salvation Army Hall, Oliver St, starting at 9.30am. Everyone is welcome to come along and do some handicraft, have a cuppa and make new friends.

GRAFTON AL-ANON FAMILY GROUP

Our meetings are held weekly on Tuesdays at 12md – 1.30pm at the Salvation Army Hall, 91-93 Oliver Street, Grafton. Meetings are always confidential. The Al-Anon Family Groups are a fellowship of relatives and friends of Alcoholics who share their experience, strength, and hope in order to solve their common problems. We believe alcoholism is a family illness and that changed attitudes can aid recovery. Al-Anon is not allied with any sect, denomination, political entity, organization, or institution; does not engage in any controversy neither endorses nor opposes any cause. There are no dues for membership. Al-Anon is selfsupporting through its own voluntary contributions. Al-Anon has but one purpose: to help families of alcoholics. We do this by practicing the Twelve Steps, by welcoming and giving comfort to families and friends of alcoholics and by giving understanding and encouragement to the alcoholic. For further information or to talk to a member in confidence call 1300 252 666

An Amazing Event is coming to Grafton Gallery!

Our River, Our Stories, Our Song. Clarence River Guardians and the Grafton Regional Gallery present Water Talks Gathering a celebration of our river on World Rivers Day. Enjoy River Stories, hear about cutting edge river research, and be moved by the Youth Dance Mob’s Performance of Big River Song. When: Sunday 28th September, 11am – 2pm Where: Grafton Regional Gallery Includes: Finger food, tea and co ee. Come and Celebrate Our River! Proudly supported by Southern Cross University and The Lions Club of Clarence – Environmental

GRAFTON’S MIGHTY CLARENCE TOASTMASTERS CLUB

Perhaps it’s time to find out what it’s all about! If you would like to improve your communication and leadership skills. Make new friends and have fun, you are warmly invited to attend the Mighty Clarence Toastmasters Club. We meet on the 1st & 3rd Wednesday evening of each month. You may attend either from the comfort of your own home via zoom or join us in person at the Joan Muir Community Centre: 194 Turf Street, Grafton.

GRAFTON SENIORS BE FIT EXERCISE CLASSES

Every Friday at the Uniting Church, Prince Street. Join us for gentle exercises designed for Seniors. We meet at 10.30a.m. for a cuppa and a chat with the exercises commencing at 11. All equipment is provided and there is no cost to the participants. Further information can be obtained from Chris 0400490691 or Dot on 66423248 or 0477213017

Grafton VIEW Club

Grafton VIEW Club meets on the 4th Tuesday each month at Grafton District Services Club, Mary Street, commencing at 10.30am. Please come along & enjoy yourself with a tasty meal,

motivated guest speaker & at the same time you will help disadvantaged children. Please phone Helen at 6642 3867 for catering purposes no later than the Friday before the meeting. As well, a social outing is held each month. You are warmly invited to come along, have some fun & you will be helping others as well. See you there!

CLARENCE RIVER HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Clarence River Historical Society – Schae er House Museum. 190 Fitzroy Street Grafton. 2460. Phone 0266425212.We are welcoming many visitors through the museum, often from interstate and on bus trips, not only to see our wonderful collection of artefacts gathered over 90 years but also to research family history and/or places of interest in the Valley. Research Room hours are from 9 to 3 Tuesday to Thursday and Museum hours are from1 to 4 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Other times can be arranged. Admission is $6 for adults and $3 for children. If you would like to become a member of our Society and receive our interesting newsletters contact the Secretary, Robyn. Membership fees are $27 yearly.

HASTINGS POINT

HASTINGS POINT COMMUNITY CHOIR

Do you enjoy singing. Our repertoire covers a variety of music styles – both unison and part singing We would love you to join us. New members needed. You will be made most welcome When: Tuesday Evenings from 7pm – 8.30pm Where: Tricare Residential Village Community Room Tweed Coast Road, next to Shell Petrol Station. For more information, contact Jean Berry 0414794380

PROBUS CLUB OF HASTINGS POINT – The Probus Club of Hastings Point Tweed Coast meets at Hastings Point Tricare resident's lounge, on 3rd Tuesday each month, commencing with a guest speaker at 10am. Retirees and seniors are welcome to join this happy social group. Phone the Probus president Di Mills 044 732 5387 for more information.

KINGSCLIFF KINGSCLIFF 500 CARD CLUB

Kingscli 500 Card Club. Monday and Wednesday afternoons 1pm to 4pm Cudgen Surf Club New players WELCOME Contact: GARY 0499869992

Kingscli Probus Club

First Wednesday of the month, 10am to 12 noon in the function room of Kingscli Bowls Club. We have an interesting guest speaker each month plus bus trips to various points on the map each third Wednesday of the month. Retirees and seniors are most welcome to join us in this happy social group. Ph Marlene 0428323736

KYOGLE

Kyogle Country Music

Our Christmas Party on 14th December. We have a break till February 9th when we resume for 2026 with AGM. All days held at Wiangaree Hall, and all commence at 11 am. All welcome.

BORDER RANGES RSL DAY CLUB

The Kyogle Border Ranges RSL Day Club meets each Monday in the Kyogle Seniors Centre, 3 Bloore St, Kyogle, from 10am to 2pm.Cost $10, includes Morning Tea and Lunch. We welcome Volunteers and Members, if you are in need of some Company, you are welcome to attend. Come along and have some fun. Contact Oriel 0427245324.

KYOGLE WRITERS GROUP

Kyogle Writers Group meets on the last Saturday of each month and we welcome newcomers. We meet at the Roxy Lane back. entrance to the Kyogle Memorial Institute (Supper Room). Our aim is to provide support and encouragement for those new to writing, as well as more experienced writers. We practice many genres of writing poetry, memoir, and journaling to name a few. Morning tea at 9.30am is followed by our meeting from 10.00am till 12.00 pm. Throughout the year we have planned some wonderful writing workshops facilitated by local authors. For further information contact Vince on 0459 574179 or Susan on 0414 958245.

KYOGLE TIDY TOWNS FARMERS MARKET

Held every Saturday morning in Stratheden Street from 8am – 12. Come along grab some local fruit & veggies, experience all Kyogle has to o er. New Stall Holders welcome. Ph: Anne 66321851

LION’S CLUB OF KYOGLE

Meeting is held on the 1st & 3rd Tuesday each month at the Kyogle Lion’s shed from 6.30–7pm.Contact Neville Moon on 0448222334.

RICHMOND RIVER BEEF PRODUCER’S ASSOCIATION

Meet on the 2nd Wednesday of every month at Kyogle Showgrounds in the luncheon room at 7pm.Ph: Jan on 0427293455.

KYOGLE BAZAAR

Fourth Saturday of every month. See Kyogle Bazaar on social media for all the details or call 0459512249.

LENNOX HEAD

LENNOX HEAD EVENING VIEW CLUB

Meets on the second Tuesday of each month upstairs at the Lennox Hotel at 6.30pm for dinner at 7pm. Guests are welcome. “VIEW members support the education of disadvantaged Australian children by raising much needed funds for The

Smith Family. Through fundraising activities and social events in local communities, members raise money that goes directly to The Smith Family’s learning and mentoring programs for disadvantaged. Students.” Lennox Head Evening VIEW Club currently sponsors two Learning for Life students': Sue Brennan 0409728814.

LENNOX HEAD LIONS CLUB

New members welcome to join our close-knit club where the emphasis is on community service in a fun environment. Meetings are on the first and Third Wednesday of each month at Club Lennox starting at 6.30pm. Members do what they can, when they can to facilitate the needs of our club.

PROBUS CLUB OF LENNOX HEAD

Meets 9.30 for 10 at Club Lennox, 10 Stewart Street, on the first Thursday of each month. Visitors are welcome, also retired, or semi-retired people wishing to join our non-service club to hear interesting guest speakers and to join in trips and outings are invited along. Ph: June Zentveld on 66871004

LISMORE

LISMORE ANGLICANS' ANNUAL CHRISTMAS SHOP

Monday, November 17 to Friday, December 5, 2025

57 Woodlark Street, Lismore in the Central Business District. The former Cruise & Travel. Come and buy your Christmas treats. All home-made Christmas cakes, puddings, slices, biscuits, scones. Handicraft items, Wooden items. Potted plants galore. Monster Hamper and lots of cheer. Cash or card. M-F: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm. Sat: 9:00 to Noon. TEL: 02 6621 3200

AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS

Al-Anon o ers help and hope for family and friends of alcoholics. If someone in your family has a drinking problem, you can see what it's doing to them. But can you see what it's doing to YOU? For information and help call 1300 ALANON (1300 252 666). AlAnon Family Groups meet regularly across Australia and online, see Website: MONDAY 11:00am – 12.30 pm ILUKA – CWA Hall (behind the Iluka Museum), 2 Charles St TUESDAY 12.00 – 1.30 pm GRAFTON – Hall 2, Salvation Army, 91-93 Oliver St.1:00 – 2.30 pm LISMORE "The Studio", adjacent to 14 Pleasant St, Goonellabah & ZOOM ID 252 666 0000 (no password) (enter at rear of car park, cnr Pleasant & Fischer Sts) WEDNESDAY6.30 – 8:00 pm BALLINA – Anglican Church, 24 Burnet St & ZOOM ID 252 666 0000 (no password)THURSDAY 5:00 – 6:00 pm (with Alateen) TWEED HEADS Anglican Church, 13 Powell St or by phone: 4022 9113, code 5771881# FRIDAY The Bangalow meeting meets in person on the FIRST and THIRD FRIDAY of the month at 1.00 – 2.30 pm at 17 Station St, Bangalow, (Bangalow Uniting Church, parking next to the Church. SUNDAY 4:00 pm CHINDERAH Seventh Day Adventist Church, 83 Phillip St

Lismore Parkinsonism Support Group for all Parkinson related disorders. We meet every third Friday of the month. Next group Meeting is 21st of November Commences at 10am to 12pm at the South Lismore Bowls Club, 25 Wilson Street South Lismore. New members always welcomed. Any inquiries contact Marie 0448871290

LISMORE CWA. Activities Update

Stall at the Lismore City Bowlo markets on the 3rd Sunday of each month. Monthly Branch Meetings are held at the CWA Rooms in Spinks Park on the 2nd Friday of each month. Craft Meetings (learning & friendship) are held at the CWA Rooms each Tuesday with a 10:30am start. Christmas Gift Wrapping will be held at 2 locations from the 15th to 24th December. Lismore Shopping SQ. and downtown outside ‘Little Polli & the Blackbird’ Cnr. Carrington & Magellan Sts in Lismore. For Membership enquiries contact our President Aliison Kelly on 0428 216 079: for Craft call Vicki Boyle on 0437 465 642. We look forward to hearing from anyone interested in Membership to come along as a ‘guest’ to either of our meetings.

Lismore Garden Club

meets on the 2nd Thursday of each month at the East Lismore Bowling Club, commencing at 1pm. The Club has guest speakers, visits to members’ gardens and enjoy a morning tea and friendship whilst taking in the beautiful gardens. Day trips away are also on the agenda from time to time. There is the opportunity to display something special such as a particular flower or produce each month. New members are most welcome. For further information, contact the Secretary, phone 0416 281 365.

AA MEETINGS

Lismore RED DOVE AA Meetings, Every Monday, Wednesday & Friday 12 Noon and Sundays 10.30am. Upstairs in The Uniting Church, cnr of Keen St & Woodlark St Lismore. Disability lifts available. Newcomers welcome.

LISMORE LIBRARY

Library Afterschool

Lismore Children's Library is launching a new program of afterschool activities called Library Afterschool. This term, we invite local children to get involved in PAPERCRAFT and LEGO activities. All sessions will be fun, free, low-key and inclusive, facilitated by your friendly Lismore Children's Library sta PAPERCRAFT

3.30pm-5pm at Lismore Children’s Library, first and third Tuesday of the month. Papercraft will include learning to draw, making origami and scissor-and-glue crafts. LEGO 3.30pm-5pm at Lismore Children’s Library, second and fourth Friday of the month Explore our excellent LEGO collection. Alternating themed

and free-play sessions. The Northern Rivers Lodge No. 77 meets on the 2nd Wednesday of each month (except in January) at the Lismore Masonic Centre, 111 Magellan Street Lismore. We welcome all Masons to an enjoyable and entertaining evening. Inquiries 0412665674

LISMORE CRAFTS & QUILTERS

You are invited to join, LISMORE CRAFTS & QUILTERS. We meet on Mondays at the Lismore Uniting Church, Red Dove, Hall 9.30am – 12.30pm. We do Patchwork, Quilting & all Crafts. We also have night group, who meet at McLean Ridges Hall, Monday evenings, 5.30pm – 9pm. Cost is $30 for the year & $5 each Monday. Looking forward to seeing you. Enquiries to Margaret Boxsell 0427141425

LISMORE LIONS CLUB

Please save your used stamps to raise funds for The Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation. Stamps are collected & forwarded on to be sorted & sold at Auction, to raise money for Children’s Mobility contact Margaret Boxsell on 0427141425

Lismore City Bowling

Lismore City Bowling and Recreation Club Community BINGO every Monday morning 10 am to 12 noon. Morning tea and Progressive Jackpot. All welcome. Phone 66 21 5991.

LISMORE CITY CONCERT BAND

Rehearsals are held during school terms on Mondays, 6.15-7.45pm at Southern Cross University. If you can play a concert band instrument: brass, woodwind, or percussion, please come and join us! All ages welcome. We have some instruments available for loan. Ph: 0432575911

LISMORE MEN & COMMUNITY SHED

President: Mr Bob Greig 0404860504 publicity o icer Don Abrahams 0437576837

Opening Hours: Tuesday & Thursday 9.00am – 3.00pm We are a community based non-profit organisation. Everybody is welcome: men, women & people with a disability of all ages. We encourage social inclusion. Our aim is to promote the mental, physical & emotional well-being of people in our community. Shed Activities Members work on their own projects, Mentoring is available, General woodworking, Welding & light engineering, Repair & restoration of items for the public Constructing projects, of items for the public Constructing projects for preschools, hospitals & other organisations Assembling flatpack, Minor maintenance work for the elderly & disabled, working with the disabled, talking with other members or simply having company. Memberships: $40-year Attendance Fee: $3 tea/co ee 15 Industry Drive East Lismore

LISMORE ORCHID SOCIETY INC.

City of Lismore Orchid Society Inc. Meetings are now at the Lismore Show Ground, In Norms Kitchen under the Members Grandstand. Alexandra Parade, North Lismore. NSW 2480 Meeting Date; the first Saturday of the month Meeting Time: 9:30am display plants set up, 10:00am meeting starts with a cuppa after. Contact President Mr. Steven Muldoon 0427789773

Orchid meeting involves the sharing of information, knowledge and friendship. All welcome. Lismore City Bowling and Recreation Club Community BINGO every Monday Morning 10am to 12 noon. Morning tea and Progressive Jackpot. All welcome. Ph 6621 5991

LISMORE SENIOR CITIZENS

Meet at the Goonellabah Community Centre every second Thursday starting at 9am where we have morning tea followed by games bingo how etc we play cards Monday and Friday and play bowls Tuesdays and craft every second Tuesday afternoons come and join our friendly group you will be very welcome.

LISMORE SPINNERS & WEAVERS

Please join us Weaving, Spinning, Felting, Dyeing, Knitting, Crochet, Workshops, Chat.... Sharing Craft & Ideas. From 10am, on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Fridays of each month. (Formal business meeting is 10.30-11.30 every 1st Friday) McLeans Ridges Hall Cnr Cowlong and McLeans Ridges Rds. (o Bruxner Hwy) Morning Tea provided. Bring your lunch (and a mug) Contac: Kim: 0423935060, Linda: 0419489987

LISMORE TARGET RIFLE CLUB for .22 calibre rifles, meets Wed nights from 6.00pm (setup time) & the 1st & 3rd Sat of each month from 12.30pm (setup time). Air rifle shooting for .22 & 177 air rifles will also be available at the Saturday shoots. For more information, please phone Derek on 66282082 (ah).

CO-DEPENDANTS ANONYMOUS (CoDA)

Co-Dependants Anonymous is a Twelve Step Fellowship of people whose common purpose is to develop healthy relationships. The only requirement for membership is a desire for healthy relationships.The CoDA meeting in the Lismore area meets on Mondays from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Riverland’s Drug and Alcohol Centre. 75 Hunter Street, Lismore. For further information call 0456178826 or 0408336143

EAST LISMORE BOWLING CLUB

Community Bingo Tuesday night 7.30pm start. 20 games of bingo + progressive jackpot Neilson Street East Lismore. Everyone Welcome

EAST LISMORE SOCIAL TENNIS

Social Tennis is played at East Lismore Tennis Club, Cnr Neilson

St & Oakley Avenue every Tuesday from 8am. We invite social players of all abilities to join us, we are a mixed group who enjoy a morning’s tennis without the commitment of competition. Ph: Fay Ross 0412910487. Everyone welcome.

MAINLY MUSIC

Fun, interactive, music sessions for young children [birth to school age] and their parents/caregivers in a relaxed setting on Tuesdays starting at 9:30am during School Terms. Children will be introduced to music, creativity and more. They will develop gross motor skills, as well as socialise with others in a loving, shared family environment. Morning tea with snacks included. Mainly Music at Lismore Anglican Parish Centre, 10 Zadoc Street, LISMORE. T: 0266213200

PROBUS CLUB OF LISMORE HEIGHTS

Our mixed group meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month at the Lismore Heights Bowling Club in High St. Our brief meeting is followed by morning tea and a guest speaker. Senior’s lunch for $15 at noon is optional. Guests and visitors are welcome. Ring/ text Roslyn on 0437606674 for details of our other monthly social gatherings and outings.

ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE NETWORKING

Want to be part of an innovative, interesting, and inclusive networking group who meet fortnightly to share ideas, meet other professionals and work together to make a di erence in your community? Then Rotary Club of Lismore Networking could be the answer for you! Meets on the 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month at 5.30pm at The Civic Hotel (210 Molesworth Street Lismore). Ph: Rita on 0413300578 or Gae 0412742095.

ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE WEST INC

East Lismore Bowling Club each Thursday at 6pm. New members would be made most welcome. Further information available on 0428151934.

ROTARY CLUB OF SUMMERLAND SUNRISE

Interested in contributing to community? Local and international?

The Rotary Club of Summerland Sunrise meets every Friday at 7.05am for Breakfast at Red Dove Café 80 Keen st Lismore. Join us please. Ph: 0435990919

SUMMERLAND AMATEUR RADIO CLUB

Meetings of the club are normally held on the second Sunday of each month at the clubrooms: 412 Richmond Hill Road, Richmond Hill at 1pm. Visitors are welcome. The clubrooms are usually open on Sunday afternoons from about 1pm onwards. We are primarily amateur radio enthusiasts and welcome persons interested in radio, electronics, astronomy, and similar subjects.

SUMMERLAND BONSAI SOCIETY INC.

Come and learn an addictive hobby with us. We provide personal support from experienced teachers as well as demonstrations and Bonsai information. Club days are held on the second Saturday of every month at 1pm in the Red Dove at Lismore Be inspired about the art of creating little trees. Ph: 0438103601

ZEN and INSIGHT MEDITATION – Lismore Heights INSIGHT (VIPASSANA) MEDITATION and practice:This mindfulnessbased meditation group sits on Wednesdays from 7:00-8:30pm. The evening includes meditation instructions, sitting and walking meditation, Dharma talks and discussion. For further details, please contact Rosie – 0402 682 925. Beginners and experienced meditations are warmly welcomed.

ZEN MEDITATION and practice The Zen meditation group sits on Mondays from 6:30pm-8:15pm. If you wish to attend

MACLEAN

MACLEAN VIEW CLUB

Monthly meetings the 3rd Thursdays of each month at 11am. Contact Ruth Toyer on 0409844212 by Mondays, no later than 7pm. Numbers are required for catering purposes.

MCLEANS RIDGES

MCLEANS RIDGES CRAFT GROUP meet at the McLeans Ridges Hall, Cowlong Road, McLeans Ridges on the 2nd Saturday of each month from 9.30am to 3.30pm. Scrapbooking, card making, paper craft, knitting whatever takes your fancy. Come along for an enjoyable day. Bring your own morning tea and lunch. Co ee, tea, milk provided. A small fee to cover hall hire. Ph 0401 047 513.

MURWILLUMBAH

COMMUNITY PRINTMAKERS MURWILLUMBAH

Fine art printmakers. Meet at studio space 224 Stokers Rd, Stokers Siding. Prints, gallery, workshops and more! Ph: Peter 0498399640 or Sue 0408493253.

MURWILLUMBAH COMMUNITY GARDEN

Members and visitors are invited to join the group for activities and gardening tips most Sundays. Time 3-5pm, street parking, BYO, covered footwear, comfy clothing, hat, and water. Children ok with strict supervision. Covid plan operating. Ph: Bob Johnson (02)66225792.

POTTSVILLE

Alcoholics Anonymous: Is drinking costing you more than money? AA works and is very active in Pottsville. We meet every

Thursday 7pm at St Marks 15A Coronation Ave Pottsville and local contact 1800 423 431 or 04019 45671

POTTSVILLE FUN CROQUET CLUB

Meets at Black Rocks Sports Fields on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8.30am. New members are welcome to come and join us for a hit and a bit of fun. For any further enquires please call Jean on 0431606375.

TWEED HEADS

Poets and writers on the Tweed meet every Tuesday at the South Tweed Sports Club 1.30-3.30pm. Beginners welcome. Phone 0755248035.

TWEED HEADS PROBUS CLUB

Probus Club, Coolangatta/Tweed Heads. Be at Club Tweed at 10-00am on the first Wednesday of the Month. Visitors and new members are very welcome.

TWEED PATCHWORK GROUP

Meet the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month at South Tweed Community Centre from 9-1pm at 18 He ron Street Tweed Heads south all beginners welcome phone Moira on 0418686643. A friendly group of people with common interest in seeing, quilting and related craft.

TWIN TOWNS DAY VIEW CLUB VIEW

as in Voice, Interests, Education of Women (Not many people are aware of what ‘VIEW’ club stands for!) AND NOT ONLY IN NAME: We are a group of ladies who care what will become of our youth! Our heritage – Their heritage – It is sad but true that many of our young people have no direction in their lives. Every morning, we wake to the news that violence has occurred overnight in what was once considered a safe neighbourhood. How do these o ending children/ youth feel the next morning knowing they have caused so much heartache – is this why we also hear of youth harming themselves so they can spread the pain? So, this is where VIEW Clubs and other similar clubs are starting from the bottom of the ladder by providing much needed funds to educate our youngsters so they will WANT to become the very best person they can not only in education but in their community and being proud of themselves and giving their parents hope for their child’s future. We at TWIN TOWNS DAY VIEW CLUB PROVIDE THE NECESSARY FUNDS to educate just 7 of these children. We know not where they come from, but someone in their community has contacted THE SMITH FAMILY and they in turn contact VIEW CLUBS OF AUSTRALIA who anonymously contact a VIEW Club who in turn take over the responsibility for these worthy children’s fees and so year after year their tertiary fees are paid. These fees are raised by VIEW Club members who attend meetings, listen to interesting guest speakers, and regularly have days out at each other’s homes – so FUN and a tremendous satisfaction of knowing we are helping our future generation. More information can be gleaned by contacting our President Kathie on 0407709629.

YAMBA

YAMBA LIONS CLUB

Yamba Lions Club’s meetings are held 2nd & 4th Thursdays of month at Yamba Bowling Club, commencing at 7pm for 7.30pm. For further information, please contact the Secretary Peter 0417546097. Social outings also held at various time and visitors and new members’ welcome.

ALL NORTHERN RIVERS

NORTHERN RIVES MUSTANGS

If you own a Ford Mustang and would like to do monthly drives with other members for more information, contact John 0404 884 192

NRCF WOMEN’S GIVING CIRCLE

The Northern Rivers Community Foundation (NRFC) is inviting Northern Rivers women to play an active role in empowering vulnerable women and girls in our region. The newly formed NRFC’s Women’s Giving Circle brings Northern Rivers women together to achieve equality and human rights for women and girls in our region and enable them to realise their full potential. Ph: 0499862886

The NORTHERN RIVERS HASH HOUSE HARRIERS is a non-profit community group that is part of a worldwide organisation. The Hash House Harriers meet every Monday at 6pm for a run/walk from various locations around Lismore, Alstonville, and Ballina. The run/walk lasts for approximately an hour, followed by friendship, banter and grub. We are very friendly and welcome new members.

NORTHERN RIVERS NAVAL & MARINERS ASSOCIATION

This association was formed to attract veterans for companionship, wellbeing and to supply advocacy to veterans. We hold an informal gathering every Friday, 2.30pm at Ballina Angling Club (families are welcome). Ph: Allan Watt: 0402 749 582

ALL AREAS

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS If you’re looking for help to stop drinking, you can reach out to Alcoholics Anonymous 24 hours a day. Our phone line is always answered by someone who’s been where you are – an alcoholic in recovery. We understand the challengers, and we know we’re the right people to help you. You can call AA anytime on 1300 22 22 22.

WEATHER

FORECAST

Northern Rivers District:

Mostly sunny. Winds southerly 20 to 30 km/h tending southeasterly 15 to 25 km/h during the day then becoming light during the evening.

Thursday. Sunny. Light winds becoming north to northeasterly 15 to 25 km/h during the afternoon.

Northern Tablelands District:

Sunny. Winds southeast to southwesterly 15 to 20 km/h tending southwesterly during the day then becoming light during the evening. Thursday. Patches of morning frost in the south. The chance of morning fog. Sunny day. Light winds becoming west to northwesterly 15 to 20 km/h during the morning then becoming light during the evening.

New South Wales:

Chance of a shower about the north coast. Dry and sunny elsewhere. Patchy morning frost about the southern and central ranges, adjacent slopes and inland plains. Daytime temperatures below average. West to southwesterly winds across the east. Light and variable in the far west.

Thursday. Chance of a late shower in the far west and along the southern border, but otherwise dry and sunny. Patchy morning fog along the northern ranges and patchy frost about the Central West. Daytime temperatures average. North to northwesterly winds, turning westerly inland during the afternoon. Winds fresh at times along the north coastal fringe.

Byron Coast:

Winds: Northwest to southwesterly 20 to 30 knots tending southerly during the morning then turning east to southeasterly 10 to 15 knots during the afternoon. Seas: 2 to 3 metres, decreasing to 1 metre

during the afternoon or evening. Swell: Southerly 1 to 1.5 metres, increasing to 2 to 3 metres during the morning. Weather: The chance of a storm in the morning. Mostly sunny afternoon. Coffs Coast:

Winds: Northwest to southwesterly 20 to 30 knots tending southerly during the morning then turning east to southeasterly 10 to 15 knots during the afternoon. Seas: 2 to 3 metres, decreasing to 1 metre during the afternoon or evening. Swell: Southerly 1 to 1.5 metres, increasing to 2 to 3 metres during the morning. Weather: The chance of a storm in the morning. Mostly sunny afternoon. Gold Coast Waters:

Winds: Variable about 10 knots becoming west to southwesterly 15 to 20 knots during the morning then shifting southeasterly during the day. Seas: Below 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres during the afternoon. Swell: Southeasterly around 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1 to 2 metres offshore. Weather: Mostly sunny.

FOOTBALL CLUB KICKS A GOAL WITH NEW

Goonellabah Football Club is set to shine brighter than ever thanks to a $94,776 grant from the NSW Government’s Infrastructure Grants program.

Lismore MP Janelle Safn announced the funding, which will deliver modern, energyefcient LED lighting at Weston Park , providing a major boost for the club’s players and supporters.

“This is wonderful news for a club that has hundreds of players across its Goonellabah Hornets teams, from sixyear-olds to seniors,” Ms Safn said.

Club representative Jef Wingfeld said the grant will allow Goonellabah FC to complete its longawaited lighting upgrade, installing four new towers for a total of six across the grounds.

“The improved lighting will meet lux ratings for night games and be a

huge beneft for training sessions. This is the third time we’ve applied, so we’re thrilled to fnally see it happen. Hopefully, installation will be completed before next season,” Mr Wingfeld said.

The funding comes through ClubGrants

Category 3 , which channels profts from registered clubs’ gaming machines back into community projects.

The Minister for Racing and Gaming said the grants help communities strengthen connections and wellbeing through sport, arts, volunteering and disaster readiness.

“We received many strong applications and congratulate those successful in securing funding. These projects make a real diference to local communities,” the Minister said.

Applications for the next round of ClubGrants Category 3 funding will open on 24 November

NSW Pride Triumph in Brisbane with Stunning Fightbacks

Jef Gibbs

Both the NSW Pride men’s and women’s hockey teams produced thrilling comebacks in Brisbane on Friday night, claiming memorable victories over the Brisbane Blaze in Round 4 of the One Active Hockey One League

The ferce NSW–Queensland rivalry delivered again, as Brisbane took early control in both matches before being overpowered by the determined Pride sides.

Women’s Pride Deliver Perfect Response

In the women’s clash, the Blaze surged ahead 3–0 before halftime, with goals from Savannah Fitzpatrick and Dayle Dolkens. But after a fery halftime talk, NSW stormed back.

Within minutes, Jenna-

Dylan Downey , fresh from gold at the Sultan of Johor Cup, added: “It’s a great example of never giving up. All this high-level hockey is so exciting.”

Rae McIntyre struck with a brilliant reversestick goal, followed by a powerful top-corner fnish from Mariah Williams and a deft defection by Alana Kavanagh to level the score.

With just three minutes remaining, Chelsea Holmes delivered the winner, volleying home from a rebound to complete the remarkable 4–3 comeback.

Holmes praised her team’s resilience: “We reminded ourselves how quickly games can change—we just had to stay patient and control the controllables,” she said.

Head Coach Scott Barker lauded the team’s mental toughness.

“At halftime I asked, ‘Are we soft or resilient?’—and they answered that question tonight,” he said.

Now undefeated after four matches, the Pride women are guaranteed a fnals berth and will take a week’s break before returning refreshed for the run home.

Men’s Pride Hold Nerve in Shootout Thriller

In the men’s match, the Blaze led 2–0 late in the fnal quarter through Joel Rintala and Daykin Stanger, before Nathan Czinner sparked a sensational turnaround— scoring a feld goal and a one-on-one conversion in the fnal minute to tie the game 2–2.

In the shootout, NSW’s

WEEKLY SPORTS RESULTS

Northern Rivers Sports Wrap –Friendly Rivalries and Local Glory!

Casino Bowls –Wednesday, November 5

It might’ve been a smaller roll-up on Wednesday morning, but the Casino RSM ladies made every bowl count!

Carmel Doyle, Tanya Maxwell, Raelene Skirrey and Helen Lavelle were on fre, combining precision and teamwork to claim a strong win over Sandra Guthrie, Jan Dwyer and Julie Creighton, who each played a half-game alongside Jan Cooke and Denise Skinner. The laughter carried further than the bowls this week — proof that this

group’s spirit is as bright as ever.

Fancy joining in?

Games roll out every Wednesday from 9am to noon at the Casino RSM Club. Visitors are always welcome — and so is a good giggle!

Casino Social Golf –Sunday, November 9

The early dew didn’t stop the competition from heating up on Sunday morning at Casino Social Golf.

Garry Randall teed of with confdence and didn’t look back, taking home the day’s win with a sharp 23 stableford points. Hot on his heels was Paul Day, fnishing on 21 and clinching the putting trophy with an

incredible 11 putts.

The crowd was buzzing as D. Hampson took out the players draw and nailed nearest pins on the 3rd and 8th.

G. Randall, G. Skennar, W. Jackson, T. Jenkins, J. Rankin and G. Shephard also found themselves in the pin action across multiple holes.

Next week’s game, sponsored by Newstead Automotive Services, promises more action — tee of between 6:30 and 7:30am. New players welcome to take a swing!

Cherry Street Croquet Club –Competitive Spirit at Its Best

It was a cracker of a

week at Cherry Street as players turned the lawns into battlegrounds of skill and strategy.

In Association Croquet, P. Waters edged out D. Scott 18–14, while R. Chapman took down G. Porter 18–13 in a match that had spectators leaning forward.

Ricochet Croquet was just as ferce, with duos like Waters and Scott cruising past Poynting and Chapman 18–12, and N. Watts dominating J. Dorward 26–14.

The Twilight Golf Croquet saw G. Porter shine with 18 points, closely followed by D. Jones on 17 and B. Nelson on 16 — an incredibly tight leaderboard!

To cap of the week, badge winners included familiar favourites like P. Hume, R. Poynting and J. Dorward — proving consistency pays of. Cherry Street continues to set the tone for friendly yet fery croquet competition in the Northern Rivers.

Coraki Veterans Golf – Thursday, November 6

Sunshine, banter, and some cracking drives made for another great day at Coraki. November’s Monthly Medal went to N. Cuppid, whose steady play and cool temperament saw him outshine the feld. P.

Ash Thomas made a crucial save as the Pride coolly converted all fve attempts to secure a 5–4 victory and vital bonus points.

Coach Kieran Govers praised the team’s composure and goalkeeper Thomas’s heroics.

“Ash was brilliant—he took a few hits but kept us in the game,” Govers said.

Rising defender Dylan Downey, fresh from gold at the Sultan of Johor Cup, added:

“It’s a great example of never giving up. All this high-level hockey is so exciting.”

Both Pride teams now enjoy a bye before hosting Adelaide Fire in Goulburn on Friday, November 14

Results

l

Smith took out the veterans event, with M. Staford and J. Nilsson rounding out the top three.

There were smiles all around as J. Braby scored the free game, and a long list of chicken and ball winners celebrated — including R. Mackay, Bernie McDonald, and L. Newton.

McDonald and J. O’Brien showed pinpoint accuracy with nearest pins, while L. Newton was deadly on the greens, nailing best putts of the day.

Next Thursday, it’s back for an 18-hole single stableford from 8am — so dust of the clubs and bring your A-game. Until then... good golfng!

Wily veteran torments top of table rivals

By Tim Howard

Clarence frst grade cricket premiers Harwood have unearthed — or maybe exhumed — another match-winner in wily ofspinner Matt Young.

Young, who returned to the Harwood player ranks earlier this season, turned in a decisive spell in the top-of-the-table clash with Lawrence at Harwood Oval on Saturday, after the visitors looked to be setting themselves up for a big score.

Batting frst, Lawrence openers Darby Rouse (38) and Mark Ensbey (26) made a steady start to the innings and saw of the opening attack.

But Harwood revealed its depth.

The introduction of Young (3-22) and the nagging medium pace of Corey Lewis (2-18) did not allow the Lawrence batting to build on its good start.

Young’s three wickets were the frst to fall in the innings, snaring top scorers Rouse and Ensbey and frst drop Hamish Pearce.

It seems an age since Young emerged on the Clarence cricket scene as a bustling medium-fast bowler and hard-hitting batter.

As the years caught up with him, his love for the sport did not diminish.

To remain competitive, he modifed his game,

turning from pace to spin — and remains a force in local cricket.

As the bowlers took control, a steady run rate turned into a trickle, which in turn brought more wickets.

Lawrence struggled to 7-118 in its 40 overs.

Only Sam Ensbey’s 18 from 37 balls broke double fgures in the bottom half of the innings.

The 118 target was never going to trouble the strong Harwood batting line-up, who dutifully knocked of the runs with 5.2 overs to spare.

Lawrence made an early

inroad, knocking over Evan Lewis for a frst-ball duck, but opener Kallen Lawrence (20) and frst drop Ashley Moss (30) combined for a 52-run stand to hold of further losses.

The loss of Lawrence, Moss, and Josh Lane for just 12 runs put some juice back into the Lawrence bowlers, but a stubborn stand between Ben McMahon (32 not out) and Alex Moftt (17) took Harwood close to the target.

Brothers Ben and Hayden McMahon were at the wicket when the winning

runs were scored.

At Ellem Oval, GDSC Easts squandered valuable batting time when they were bowled out for 120 in the 31st over against Tucabia Copmanhurst Ulmarra Hotel.

Easts lost a wicket frst ball but got of to a rollicking start when hard-hitting all-rounder Shannon Connor came in. Connor (38 from 18 balls) and Tom Gerrard (6) put on 50 for the frst wicket in quick time.

But the wheels came of at 50 when both Connor and Gerrard were dismissed.

visitors.

At Iluka Sportsground, the home team hosted Maclean United in what could have been a doublewicket competition.

Batting frst, Maclean were in all sorts of bother when Iluka’s opening bowlers Shaun Laurie (3-19) and Glenn Ayres (3-12) ripped out four of the top fve for 15.

But from there Geof Simmons (51) and Jarrod Walker combined for a 91-run stand that rejuvenated the innings.

With the dismissal of Walker at 106, however, the last fve wickets fell for 23, and Maclean were dismissed for 129 in 38 overs.

Wickets tumbled, and only a forlorn 20 from skipper David Duroux brought the score into triple fgures.

Spinner Tim Bultitude had the pick of the fgures with 3-19, and Myles Adamson recovered after some early punishment to fnish with 3-42.

Tucabia took a workmanlike approach to chasing down the runs.

Matt Pigg (27) topscored in a top fve who all reached double fgures.

The chase took a nervous turn in the 90s when three wickets fell for eight runs, but Bohdi Henwood (20 not out) and veteran Derek Woods (12) took the score to level at 120.

Easts skipper Duroux spun a web over the Tucabia batters to fnish with 4-13 from eight overs, but his team did not have enough runs on the board to pressure the

Iluka started shakily, losing a couple of early wickets, but a 55-run partnership between Dean Bartlett (38) and BeauDean Oestmann (25) had the home team on track for its frst win of the season.

Oestmann fell at 25, and that opened the door for the Maclean attack.

Brady Walker, the sixth bowler tried, dismissed the next three batters for ducks, which put the skids under the Iluka innings. Bartlett tried to hold the innings together but was the eighth wicket to fall with the score at 88.

Greg Walker (2-13) and opening bowler Campbell Kelly (2-14) also did their part.

On Saturday, Maclean hosts the premiers Harwood at Barry Watts Oval, Maclean.

Tucabia are at home on the Ulmarra Showground to Lawrence, and GDSC Easts and Iluka clash at Ellem Oval, Grafton.

AS CLEAR AS MUD

REBELS GO DOWN SWINGING

By Gary Nichols