Issuu

By Tim Howard Full story

By Tim Howard Full story page 2

Nats leader resignation not a total surprise

By Tim Howard

The shock resignation of NSW Nationals leader

Dugald Saunders was not a surprise to members of the party, says party whip and Clarence MP Richie Williamson.

Mr Williamson, whose job it was to organise a meeting of the 15 National Party MPs for a meeting to elect a new leader on Tuesday morning, said it had become obvious the job was taking a heavy toll on the leader.

But he ruled out the resignation, announced on Monday morning, had anything to do with the Net Zero by 2050 issue that continues to dog the Coalition parties at State and Federal level.

Mr Williamson, who was elected to State Parliament in 2023, ruled himself out of the leadership race and had no tips for who might emerge as a leader.

“On Tuesday at 8.30am

there will be 14 out of the 15 people in the room that could nominate for the leadership,” he said.

“I know that for certain because I won’t be one of them.”

Mr Williamson said that while Mr Saunders decision appeared to come out of the blue, the Nationals in State Parliament were “a closeknit family” and it was

clear the toll leadership was taking on him.

“We could see the toll It was taking on Dugald,” he said. “So while it might have been seen as a surprise to some, to many

of us, not so much. It’s a tough gig.”

In his statement of resignation Mr Saunders said the decision was difcult, but it was time he devoted more time to his family.

He also wanted to give his successor enough time to “take up the fght ahead of the next election”.

Media reports on the resignation suggest Mr Saunders might not have enjoyed the full support of his party room.

Sources quoted said there was disquiet in the party over his failure to “manage colleagues” and “set a strategic direction”.

Mr Williamson said he expected Tuesday’s meeting to short and sharp.

“In true Nats’ fashion it will be short and sharp. There won’t be too much fanfare,” he said. The election result came too late to be included this week’s edition of the Northern Rivers Times.

Kyogle MPS Marks 100 Years of Community Care

Jef Gibbs

A century of care, commitment, and community spirit will be celebrated this weekend as the Kyogle MultiPurpose Service (MPS) marks 100 years of serving the Northern Rivers community

The Kyogle MPS frst opened its doors in May 1925, beginning as a small country hospital and growing into a modern facility ofering emergency, general medical, and aged care services. Now colocated with a private GP clinic, the MPS provides care for 28 aged care residents and continues to adapt to meet local health needs.

Celebrating a century of service

The milestone will be marked with a Community Open Day featuring historic displays and health exhibits that honour both the past and present of the Kyogle hospital. One of the highlights includes the return of a fully restored 1938 Dodge Ambulance,

on loan from the Temora Ambulance Museum, which was brought back to Kyogle with the help of the local community and the Kyogle Museum

Guests will also enjoy a recreated 1925 hospital ward, complete with vintage equipment and memorabilia from the Kyogle and Urbenville museums. Staf and volunteers will host a range of health information displays covering topics

such as Aboriginal health, snakebite treatment, dementia support, diabetes care, and BreastScreen NSW A community cornerstone

The Kyogle MPS continues to play a vital role in local healthcare, recording more than 5,400 emergency department visits and 380 patient admissions between July 2024 and June 2025.

Minister for the North

Coast Janelle Safn congratulated the facility and its staf on their extraordinary contribution to rural health.

“Since its establishment, Kyogle MPS has been at the heart of our community. This is an amazing milestone, and I’m proud to celebrate the dedication of the people who have made it what it is today.”

Northern NSW Local Health District Chief Executive Tracey

Maisey also praised the community’s involvement.

“Kyogle’s sense of unity and care is what makes this place special. Our staf, volunteers, and residents embody that spirit every day.”

As Kyogle MPS celebrates 100 years, it remains a symbol of resilience, teamwork, and compassion — values that have defned a century of healthcare and continue to guide its future.

Photo courtesy of NSW Health

recycling habits deliver results

Mixed recycling collected at the kerb is sent to Re.Group’s Materials Recovery Facility at Chinderah for sorting, while cardboard is processed locally by Richmond Waste before being remanufactured into new products.

Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg praised the community’s strong commitment to recycling and the tangible outcomes achieved.

“Our community takes recycling seriously and the results speak for themselves. It’s a clear sign that Lismore households are doing the right thing — and it’s working,” Mayor Krieg said.

He added that cleaner sorting at home lowers costs and boosts recovery rates.

“Your efort shows up in the numbers.

We’ve recovered about 1,700 tonnes of paper and cardboard and 1,000 tonnes of glass, plus plastics, steel and aluminium. This week,

we’re showing how the system works — from kerb to processor.” Meanwhile, the Return and Earn bulk site at the Lismore Recycling & Recovery Centre will undergo an upgrade from 17 to 22 November, reopening on Monday, 24 November with a community BBQ to

mark the improvements.

The works will include a second singulator to create two service lines, clearer signage, and better trafc fow — cutting queues and improving efciency.

Acting Waste Operations Coordinator Kadijah Runge said National Recycling Week is about turning good intentions into efective action.

“We’re showing residents exactly where Lismore’s recycling goes and sharing simple steps to reduce contamination and lift recovery,” Ms Runge said.

“Through our social media this week, we’re posting myth busters, whatgoes-where tips, and an explainer video showing the recycling journey from kerb to processor.”

Residents are encouraged to use Council’s A to Z Recycling Guide and Planet Ark’s Recycling Near You directory to check how to correctly dispose of tricky items.

“People want proof that recycling works — and we’re showing that it does,” Ms Runge said. Now in its 29th year, Planet Ark’s National Recycling Week continues to promote practical ways for households and businesses to reduce, reuse and recycle To learn more or download the A to Z Recycling Guide, visit lismore.nsw.gov. au/Households/Wasteand-recycling/Bin-guidewhat-goes-in-which-bin

Everyone has a gift. And at TAFE NSW, we want to help you ﬁnd yours. Choose from hundreds of affordable, practical courses to get the skills you need.

Enrol now for Semester 1, 2026 + Aged Care

+ Remedial Massage

+ Early Childhood Education and Care

NSW Greens MLC

Dr Amanda Cohn has continued to ask questions of the performance of Clarence Valley Council in NSW Parliament.

Lismore’s recycling habits deliver results

Call to bring cold case inquiry closer to home

By Tim Howard

A Clarence Valley councillor is seeking to bring the NSW Parliamentary Inquiry into unsolved murders and long-term missing persons cases to the Northern Rivers, giving local families and communities a direct voice in the investigation.

At Thursday’s council meeting, Cr Debrah Novak will submit a Notice of Motion urging the Council to formally request a regional public hearing of the inquiry, which was established by the NSW Parliament in October 2025 and is chaired by Greens MLC Jeremy Buckingham. The inquiry examines systemic issues in the handling of unsolved

murders and missing persons cases in New South Wales between 1965 and 2010.

“The Clarence Valley and broader North Coast region have been afected by numerous historic and unresolved cases,” Cr Novak said in her motion.

“Many local families continue to seek justice and closure. Holding a public hearing in the region would allow them, and the wider community, to contribute directly and share their experiences.”

The proposed motion outlines several key actions for council, including:

Requesting that the NSW Legislative Council’s Portfolio Committee No. 1 –

Premier and Finance hold a regional hearing in the Clarence Valley, ideally in Grafton or Maclean.

Writing to Mr Buckingham and other committee members to express the Clarence Valley community’s interest and Council’s willingness to support logistical arrangements.

Advocating to the Minister for the North Coast, Janelle Safn MP, and local MP Richie Williamson for the regional hearing.

Authorising the Mayor to liaise directly with the Inquiry’s secretariat to confrm potential dates, venues, and coordination. The initiative has received backing from local advocates, including Terri Blackwell, who has personal ties to a long-

standing cold case from Brooms Head.

In a letter to Cr Novak, Ms Blackwell highlighted that her friend Lee Ellen Stace was murdered 28 years ago, with no resolution.

She said a regional hearing could encourage residents to come forward with information about her case and others across the North Coast.

The inquiry was designed to complement police investigations and explore the use of emerging technologies— such as DNA analysis, artifcial intelligence, and profling—to help solve cold cases and locate missing persons. It also provided protections for those making submissions, including confdentiality

for sensitive information and immunity from prosecution or defamation.

According to Cr Novak’s motion, holding a public hearing locally would remove barriers for regional families who might otherwise have to travel long distances to participate, shine a spotlight on overlooked cold cases, and demonstrate that regional NSW deserves the same access to justice and accountability as metropolitan areas.

The council is expected to vote on the motion at its meeting on Thursday, potentially marking a signifcant step in giving Northern Rivers residents a voice in a state-wide review of historic and unresolved crimes.

Cr Debrah Novak wants an inquiry into unsolved murders and long-term missing persons to come to the Clarence Valley. She says it would beneft afected residents, who could attend without the need to travel out of the area.

Police appeal for information after serious crash west of Lismore

Police are appealing for public assistance following a serious head-on collision west of Lismore earlier this month that left two men injured.

The incident

Just after 11pm on Tuesday, 11 November

2025 , emergency services were called to the Bruxner Highway at Irvington , about 25 kilometres west of Lismore, after reports of a crash.

Initial investigations suggest that two vehicles collided head-on before crashing into a paddock

. The drivers, men aged 22 and 35 , were treated at the scene before being transported to Lismore Base Hospital , both in a stable condition.

Investigation underway

A crime scene was established and inquiries

are being conducted by the Crash Investigation Unit , with support from Richmond Police District officers.

Police are appealing for any witnesses or dashcam footage that may assist with the investigation, particularly from

motorists travelling along the Bruxner Highway near Irvington that night.

Officers are especially keen to speak with the driver of a vehicle that was overtaken shortly before the collision.

Anyone with information is urged

to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://nsw. crimestoppers.com.au

. Information will be treated in confidence, and police remind the public not to report information via NSW Police social media channels.

Mayor pushes for maternity unit GBH redevelopment stage 1

By Tim Howard

Clarence

Valley Mayor

Ray Smith will ask councillors this week to formally pressure the NSW Government to restore a new maternity unit to the frst stage of the $263.8 million Grafton Base Hospital redevelopment, warning the community fears it could now be “many years away.”

In a Mayoral Minute heading to Thursday’s council meeting, Cr Smith says the original planning for the redevelopment identifed a new maternity unit as a high priority, but the project’s scope has since been pared back, with maternity relocation deferred to an unspecifed future stage.

While the Acute Services Building now under design will include space

for maternity services to move eventually, Cr Smith argues that futureproofng is not enough — particularly when construction crews will already be on site.

“It is understood that Health Infrastructure are supportive of this obvious necessity and the fnancial wisdom of moving maternity into the proposed empty shell whilst trades are on site,” the Minute states.

Cr Smith said the long-standing issue of expectant mothers being wheeled between buildings — including across the carpark in poor weather and in the path of general trafc and ambulances — remains unresolved unless the government reverses its decision to delay the upgrade.

Under the motion,

impression

council would write to Premier Chris Minns, Health Minister Ryan Park and Treasurer Daniel Mookhey, with a copy to Clarence MP Richie Williamson, urging the State Government to commit to building the

maternity unit as part of Stage 1, with construction to begin in 2026.

The Mayor also proposed that once a new unit is operational, the ageing existing maternity building should be demolished to create

Clarence Valley Mayor Ray Smith is seeking to put pressure on the NSW Government to include a maternity unit in the initial stage of the redevelopment of Grafton Base Hospital.

much-needed car parking on the hospital campus.

The Grafton Base Hospital redevelopment is set to deliver an expanded emergency department, emergency short stay unit, a new MRIequipped medical imaging

department, two additional operating theatres and a new inpatient unit.

Those upgrades remain locked into Stage 1, guided by concept designs released last year.

However, Cr Smith warned the community’s patience is wearing thin on maternity services, which have operated from an older building for decades.

“There is growing concern within the community that a new and modern maternity unit may be many years away,” he wrote.

Council will debate the motion at its ordinary meeting on Thursday. If supported, it will mark the strongest formal call yet from the Clarence Valley Council for the State Government to revisit the redevelopment staging.

An artist’s

of the $263.8 million redevelopment of Grafton Base Hospital.

Developer to challenge DA refusal in Land and Environment Court

By Tim Howard

Leading

Australian

developer

The Potter Group has lodged proceedings in the NSW Land and Environment Court after Clarence Valley Council refused its proposed 16-townhouse development at 30 Golding Street, Yamba — a decision the company says ignores expert evidence and worsens the town’s housing shortage.

The development application (DA), lodged in mid-2024, sought approval for a mix of two-storey townhouses marketed as “afordable entry-level housing” for local workers and frst-home buyers. Council planning staf recommended approval, supported by specialist reports addressing biodiversity impacts, stormwater design and Yamba’s known food risks. But in September councillors voted 6–3 to reject the DA, citing concerns including potential loss of vegetation, encroachment on mapped koala habitat, and whether

evacuation routes could safely operate during a major food event.

Councillors also questioned whether the proposed fll levels would exacerbate fooding on neighbouring properties — despite food modelling submitted by BMT Commercial Australia concluding the development met planning requirements.

A drawing from the council papers giving an impression of the appearance of the proposed development at 30 Golding St, Yamba.

The refusal followed weeks of community debate, with some residents arguing the development was premature while the town awaited the outcomes of the long-delayed Yamba Floodplain Risk Management Study.

In a media release issued last week, Potter Group managing director and Yamba resident John Potter criticised Council’s decision as “a setback for local families and frsthome buyers struggling to fnd a place to live.”

“By voting down this proposal, councillors have efectively turned their backs on young people and

essential workers who are being priced out of Yamba,” Mr Potter said.

“This was a welldesigned, food-resilient project that met all planning guidelines and received professional support from qualifed experts.

“Council’s decision ignores that evidence and ignores the reality of Yamba’s housing crisis.”

The councillors who voted against the DA were Greg Clancy, Lynne Cairns, Shane Causley, Cristie Yager, Peter Johnstone and Ray Smith.

According to the developer, biodiversity concerns were addressed through a detailed

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

assessment by GeoLINK Consulting, an accredited biodiversity assessor, while BMT prepared a full food impact study.

Both reports were submitted as part of the DA and formed the basis of Council staf’s recommendation to approve.

“We took every step possible to ensure this was a responsible and sustainable development,”

Mr Potter said.

“Instead of recognising that efort, councillors

have chosen to disregard expert fndings and make a political decision that does nothing to solve Yamba’s housing problem.”

The Potter Group has now fled a Class 1 appeal in the Land and Environment Court, arguing the refusal is inconsistent with planning laws and unsupported by the professional advice before Council. A directions hearing is set for 19 January 2026, when the court will determine the date for a conciliation conference.

“It’s disappointing

that this now has to be resolved through the courts — at great cost to local ratepayers — when the facts and expert evidence were already clear,” Mr Potter said.

He said the company remained committed to investing in Yamba and contributing to long-term housing supply, calling on Clarence Valley Council “to start acting in the best interests of its residents rather than against them.”

The council has been contacted for comment.

Join the Cycle This National Recycling Week

Robert Heyward

Byron Shire Council is encouraging residents to “Join the Cycle” this National Recycling Week by thinking carefully about what goes into their bins and how small actions at home can make a big diference for the environment.

Council’s Litter Prevention Ofcer, Anika Brown, said recycling right is one of the simplest yet most efective ways residents can help reduce landfll waste and protect local ecosystems.

“Everything we recycle keeps valuable materials, including metals, out of landfll and in circulation,” Ms Brown said. “It’s about being mindful of our waste impact and making sure we put the right stuf in the right bin.”

Recycling right at home

The message for residents this year is clear — every item counts.

l Yellow bin: newspaper,

paper, tins, cardboard, glass jars, and bottles.

l Green bin: food scraps and garden waste.

l Red bin: contaminated or non-recyclable materials.

Council’s Lift the Lid program, which randomly checks yellow and green bins, found that only 3% of yellow bins were incorrectly sorted, proving Byron residents are doing an excellent job. However, Ms Brown warned that many still misunderstand what can and cannot be composted.

“Pizza boxes, compostable cofee cups and lids, cutlery, and disposable bowls should not go in the green bin,” she explained. “Despite claims, most of these items are not truly compostable and often contain plastics, chemicals, and adhesives that can contaminate soil and harm food production.”

Avoiding waste and batery safety

Another growing issue is batteries being placed in household bins, leading

to an alarming rise in bin fres.

Council reminds residents that car, boat, and household batteries can be dropped of for free at community recycling centres, while items with embedded batteries — such as electronic devices — can be taken to the Ballina Resource Recovery Centre for safe disposal.

Reuse, repair, and repurpose

Ms Brown said that while recycling is vital, it’s only one part of the solution.

“What we really need to be focusing on is avoiding waste — reusing, repairing, and repurposing — to keep valuable materials in circulation.”

Residents are also encouraged to choose reusable items such as cups, plates, and bowls to reduce single-use waste. For more details on what can be recycled and where to drop of difcult items, visit the Byron Shire Council website.

Northern NSW Local Health District Notice of public meeting

Community members are invited to attend the Northern NSW Local Health District 2025 Annual Public Meeting.

2:00pm – 3:30pm

Wednesday 26 November 2025

Virtual Meeting (via Teams)

The meeting will include:

• keynote address on the use of technology to improve radiation therapy for cancer patients

• 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.

Email NNSWLHD-engagement@health.nsw.gov.au to have the Teams link directly to you, or scan the QR code for information on how to join the meeting on the day.

No laughing mater Nazis aren’t part of the furniture

Comment

By Tim Howard

If you’re tempted to laugh at the grim-faced men lining up in Nazi uniforms outside a parliament building, holding a sign so silly you wonder if it’s parody, just hope the joke isn’t on you.

We’ve been here before. In Germany, people laughed at Hitler for years—right up until he took power.

By the time the laughing stopped, the world had been at war for the best part of six years. No one was amused then.

It’s striking how often the answers to the world’s biggest problems are already sitting in front of us, hiding in the details.

Take net zero: once you strip away the slogans and the warm fuzziness of political marketing, you discover it isn’t an aspiration or a virtue signal at all.

It’s a mechanism—a piece of planetary machinery we must activate if we want the Earth to remain livable

The same pattern holds with the rise of populist nationalist extremism.

None of this is new. Political thinkers have been warning us about these movements for thousands of years.

And in the 20th Century we were given a particularly clear set of instructions.

Writers and philosophers like Bertolt Brecht, Albert Camus, Hannah Arendt,

Walter Benjamin, Antonio Gramsci and others all mapped out the dangers with forensic precision.

They showed us what to watch for: the normalisation of cruelty, the weaponisation of grievance, the promise of belonging in exchange for obedience, and the steady erosion of truth. They also told us how to resist. Yet here we are again, watching old patterns re-emerge—as if the spell is too strong, or our memories too short.

A teacher I had at school in England fought in Normandy during the Second World War. I suspect he saw horrors he did not wish to impose on the minds of 17-year-olds. Yet he ofered us some knowledge.

Høüsë båkëd trëåts

Dåïlÿ spëçïåls thåt døñ t brëåk thë båñk!

Å spåçë whërë çømmüñïtÿ çrëåtïvïtÿ åñd ïñçlüsïøñ årë sërvëd üp dåïlÿ 87 Magellan St Lismore 02 6627 5060

He spoke of his strongest memory: the “brew-up” at the end of the day, when comrades would stop for a cup of tea.

He said he had never felt such a human bond as he did with those men in those moments, alive in a way almost superhuman.

And he reminded us why they were fghting: to end fascism.

His generation had watched in horror as the politicians of their time failed to act, leaving young men and women to confront a catastrophe that should never have been allowed to unfold.

That lesson is not history—it is a warning.

When fascism is allowed to normalise, when people

look away, the cost is always borne by those who are willing to act, often too late.

The German playwright and poet Brecht understood how fascism works long before most of his countrymen did.

In his plays, he stripped away the masks tyrants wear. He insisted on clarity, on exposing the mechanics of power.

“The womb he crawled from is still fertile,” he wrote in The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui, reminding audiences that fascism is never a relic—it is a recurring possibility.

One of Brecht’s most important insights was that tyranny depends on normalisation. Marches, uniforms, slogans, the

theatre of strength—they must come to feel routine before they can become powerful.

Brecht’s answer was Verfremdungsefekt, usually translated as the “alienation efect,” but better understood as defamiliarisation: the art of making the familiar strange so we look again, properly, without the fog of habit.

Fascism relies on that fog. It wants us to shrug when extremists gather “to defend the nation.”

It wants us to think their rallies against immigration are harmless expressions of frustration.

The reality is far colder. These rallies are recruitment drives.

decorate it.

And we must remain relentlessly decent. When extremists attack Jews, Muslims, immigrants, Indigenous people, LGBTQI people, or any other vulnerable group, we cannot let it slide.

Every one of these people is, frst of all, a human being—someone who wants exactly what we all want: safety, dignity, the chance to build a life.

Decency is not weakness; it is resistance.

As Brecht said, “In the dark times will there also be singing? Yes, there will be singing. About the dark times.”

People wander in thinking they’re signing up to defend their town or their jobs; they leave having absorbed something darker.

A grievance becomes a worldview. A slogan becomes a creed.

This is where Brecht is valuable. His plays teach us to interrupt the spell.

To stop accepting hateful behaviour as just another Saturday event in the main street. To expose the trick.

We can’t laugh fascists of the stage—satire has its place, but tyrants who feel no sting are simply fattered by the attention.

Brecht’s point was to break the frame, not

What matters now is refusing to let any of this become normal. Refusing to drift. Refusing to forget.

Remembering that our grandparents or greatgrandparents saw these same patterns unfold, and we know exactly where they lead.

Brecht warned us that “the worst illiterate is the political illiterate.”

The job now is to stay awake, keep others awake, and cut through the spell before it thickens. Because if history has taught us one thing, it’s that the moment when fascists look ridiculous is exactly the moment they hope you won’t pay attention.

Neo-Nazis have become so emboldened in recent times in Australia they advertise their presence publicly, such as when more than 60 of them stood in front of the NSW Parliament building in Sydney. The media has identifed some of them and one is facing possible deportation.

Opening at Ballina Central, Wattlebee Baby is the Northern Rivers’ only independent boutique bringing everything for bump, baby and beyond together in one beautiful space.

New Store Opening — 27 November

A new family-owned and operated baby and parenting store is set to open its doors on 27 November, bringing a proudly Australian-focused shopping experience to the Northern Rivers.

To celebrate opening day, the rst 50 customers who spend over $150 will receive an exclusive gift bag lled with products from the store and key suppliers. Shoppers can also expect special in-store offers throughout the day, with further details to be shared across the store’s social media channels in the lead-up to the launch.

The store will showcase a carefully curated range of Australian brands, along with a selection of handcrafted pieces made by local Northern Rivers artisans. Families will nd an extensive lineup of essentials including:

• Cots and nursery furniture

• Rocking and feeding chairs

• High chairs

• Car seats and restraints

• Maternity and baby wear

• Postpartum meals

• Gift items and everyday essentials

As a locally run business, the store’s mission is to support parents and carers with high-quality products, expert advice, and a warm, community-focused shopping experience. Follow the store on social media for updates, opening day offers, and behind-the-scenes previews as the countdown to 27 November begins.

@wattlebeebaby | wattlebeebaby.com.au

Ballina Central Shop 8, 44 Bangalow Road, Ballina ˜near IGA and Direct Chemist Outlet°

Saying ‘NO!’ to Domestic Violence

Domestic Violence is an issue that will not go away in a hurry, but it is the measure of a society that stands up to challenge it head on.

That is what the Ballina community is doing again this year with their annual Walk for Respect and Change – Ballina Steps Up Against Domestic & Family Violence.

Ballina Shire will once again stand together to say “No” to Domestic and Family Violence with this year’s walk, a powerful community event uniting schools, businesses, service organisations, and residents to create awareness and inspire change.

On Friday, 28 November, the community is invited to gather at 12:30 PM at the Ballina Visitor Information Centre (next to the Ballina Pool) and walk together to the Ballina Indoor Sports Centre (BISC) in a show of solidarity and support for a violence-free community.

At the BISC, attendees will

hear from an inspiring lineup of guest speakers including:

• Dr Bridget Mottram –NSW Police Force, Strategic Policy & Project Manager, Coercive Control, Domestic & Family Violence Command

• Damian Loone – Retired Detective Sergeant

• Dave Harmon – Rotary International South Pacifc Lead, Rotary Says NO to Domestic and Family Violence; Past District 9640

Governor

• Clem de Vos – Ballina Coast High School Captain

• CJ Dodgson – Ballina Coast High School Captain

The afternoon program will be hosted by Ballina Coast High School Captains Ernie Guy and Rachel Dick, featuring music and dance performances by BCHS students that highlight unity, strength, and respect.

As part of the 16 Days of Activism, a Domestic & Family Violence Awareness Display will also be featured outside the Ballina Police

Station.

The day before there will be a Youth Leaders Breakfast.

It will be a powerful morning bringing together local high schools to hear from state and national leaders on Respectful Relationships, mental health, and the impact of growing up in abusive environments.

This will be held on Thursday, 27 November at 7:00 AM at Cherry Street Sports Club, Ballina

The Youth Leaders Breakfast gives young people the opportunity to engage directly with speakers, share ideas, and explore how respect, empathy, and leadership can shape safer communities.

It sets the tone for the following day’s community walk, inspiring youth to step forward as advocates for change.

These events are organised by the Rotary Club of Ballina-on-Richmond and supported by NSW Police. $315,950

Councillor moves to condemn Great Koala National Park as community debate intensifies

By Tim Howard

Clarence Valley councillor

Alison Bryant has stepped into the heated debate over the Great Koala National Park (GKNP), lodging a motion for Thursday’s council meeting calling on Clarence Valley Council to formally oppose the NSW Government’s plan and to campaign against it alongside neighbouring councils.

Cr Bryant has also urged supporters of the native timber industry to attend the 20 November meeting at the Maclean council chambers, describing the gathering as an opportunity to “stand up for our timber workers.”

In a social media post promoting her motion, Cr Bryant said the Minns Government’s decision to end native forest harvesting across 176,000 hectares of state forest — part of the footprint of the 476,000-hectare GKNP — amounted to the “shutdown” of large parts of the timber industry.

She claimed the change puts “the jobs of 5,500 people in the Clarence Valley and neighbouring regions” at risk and will remove “40% of the state’s hardwood timber supply,” adding that fow-on impacts would hit mechanics, construction, infrastructure and everyday products that rely on timber.

Her motion asks council to oppose the GKNP in full, raise concerns about job losses, lost recreational access and bushfre risk, and write to the Premier, ministers and MPs expressing council’s opposition.

She also sought support from neighbouring councils including Cofs Harbour, Bellingen, Nambucca, and Port Macquarie–Hastings.

Cr Bryant’s motion comes after months of escalating political and community commentary across the Northern Rivers, with the GKNP emerging repeatedly as one of the region’s most divisive issues.

The announcement of the park earlier this month triggered a wave of responses.

Clarence MP Richie Williamson denounced the move as “a massive kick in the guts” for regional communities, warning that the end of harvesting would cost “real jobs in real communities” overnight.

He argued the forestry sector had been sustainably managed for more than 150 years and accused the Minns Government

of sacrifcing regional jobs to satisfy the Greens.

In contrast, Clarence Valley Deputy Mayor Dr Greg Clancy welcomed the park as a critical conservation measure, calling industry warnings “six years of fear-mongering.”

He said the GKNP would protect habitat for more than 12,000 koalas and over 100 other threatened species, and argued it would generate new economic opportunities in tourism, rehabilitation, and park management.

Independent job estimates published in recent weeks place industry job losses far below the fgures used by opponents.

A 2019 report for the Australian Forest Products Association identifed 1395 total timber-related jobs between the Hawkesbury and Tweed, while the Natural Resources Commission in 2021 identifed 590 logging-related jobs in north-east NSW state forests.

The NSW Government has also announced a Worker Support Package for 600 people across Forestry Corporation and afected sawmills, including retraining pathways for roles expected to emerge within the GKNP.

A general manager’s comment attached to Cr Bryant’s motion outlines that the NSW Government has established multiple information portals for community updates on the park’s development and the worker transition program. It also highlights that Clarence Valley Council’s mayor and general manager are meeting regularly through

the Community Leaders Forum chaired by North Coast Minister Janelle Safn, alongside Cofs Harbour, Bellingen, Kempsey and Port Macquarie councils and key government agencies. The forum is aimed at ensuring the establishment of the GKNP is “transparent” and that outcomes are “benefcial to the region.”

The Mid North Coast Joint Organisation is also meeting with National Parks and Wildlife Service and Destination North Coast to oversee strategic planning for economic and environmental outcomes as the park rollout continues.

Cr Alison Bryant will bring a motion to Thursday’s council meeting in Maclean calling for council to formally oppose the formation of the park. She also asks timber industry supporters to attend the meeting.

Timber industry supporters claim the creation of the Great Koala National Park will lock up timber resources and lead to thousands of job losses in the industry.

Original features still intact in sale of old bank

By Samantha Elley

It has been a bank, a doctor’s surgery, a restaurant and even a private home.

Now 85-89 Richmond Terrace in Coraki is on the market again, ofering fve bedrooms, two bathrooms and even the old safe for the next buyer.

It was built in 1901 and opened in 1902 by the Commercial Bank who had opened a branch in Coraki in 1878 but needed permanent premises.

The building included a manager’s residence which would house Mr R. P. Napier, the manager at the time.

It was considered a magnifcent Federation building of its day with its red Marseilles tiles, clinker brick exterior, French doors, pressed metal ceilings and four marble freplaces.

It was a survivor of major fres that swept through Richmond Terrace, in the years 1905 and 1911 and destroyed many businesses around it.

“As far as foods go, it is really only the 2022 food that has impacted it,” said Amir Prestige Group, Byron Bay salesman, Mark Ronan.

“And even then, it only went over the foorboards as it has been set higher in the build.”

Sadly, when World War Two occurred, the bank was forced to close in 1940 as it became increasingly difcult to release ofcers for war duties while maintaining an efcient service.

The bank had been operating for 61 years.

The property rebirthed as a doctor’s surgery until it was sold in 2007.

It then opened as a restaurant called Déjà vu Restaurant and Bar but closed soon after and became a residential home.

“It really is the most interesting property in Coraki,” said Mark, who grew up in the riverside village.

“It is set on half an acre and in terms of the town and the street it is in, that is very rare.

“It’s originality and all its features are what has made it special.”

Mark said the original hand drawn deed and title is displayed on the wall and the original stables for the horses are still out the back.

Improvements have been made to the building, however, with a saltwater pool installed, along with updated kitchen and bathrooms.

“It has only been on the market for two weeks, and we already have some interest,” said Mark.

The property is advertised with a price guide of $1,350,000 –$1,450,000.

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.

New residence nears completion as opening approaches South Grafton Community Aged Care

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

An exciting milestone has been reached as the new residence enters the fnal stage of construction, with the building now truly coming to life. The fnishing touches are underway, with soft furnishings installed and each space taking on its welcoming character and charm.

Staf and resident preparations

A team of 60 staf members will begin a weeklong orientation on November 24, ensuring every detail is in place before welcoming the frst residents on December 1 Several staf are already on site, working hard to prepare the home for its Grand Opening.

Community invited to Open Day

Before the ofcial opening, the public is invited to an Open Day on Saturday, November 29, from 9:30am, ofering a chance to tour the home and experience frsthand what makes this new residence so special. It’s set to be a warm, communityfocused event celebrating the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in bringing this vision to life.

Asbestos is still present in 1 in 3 homes across Australia

If your home was built or renovated before 1990, it could contain asbestos!

Asbestos is commonly found in cement sheeting used for walls, ceilings and roofs and in thousands of other building products including vinyl fooring, adhesives, paints, textured coatings and insulation.

You can’t tell if a material contains asbestos just by looking at it and asbestos is dangerous when damaged,

To keep yourself and your family safe and avoid becoming part of that statistic, get in the know about asbestos before you begin any renovations in your home. Plan ahead and if you’re not sure when your house was built or previously renovated, assume asbestos is present. If you think you might have asbestos in your home, avoid damaging or disturbing any material until you’ve had it tested.

Story written and imagination all from Miss 9 year old

Cathy Freeman is a happy and kind women who has courage to inspire kids to chase their dreams she is 52-year-old retired Olympic Champion. She won her frst gold medal at the age of 16 Cathy Freeman was born on the16th of February, 1973 in Mackay Queensland AUSTRALIA

disturbed or deteriorated so you should avoid removing it yourself.

The statistics continue to shock with 4,000 people a year still dying from asbestos related diseases in Australia!

All Northern Rivers councils offer subsidised ‘Household Asbestos Testing’ or HAT kits, which include instructions on how to take samples safely and send them to a certifed testing laboratory. If asbestos is identifed and requires removal, you should then contact a licensed professional https://verify.licence.nsw. gov.au/home to remove and dispose of it safely.

North East Waste discussing household asbestos testing kits with the community at a recent Emergency Services Expo.

It’s dangerous and illegal to dispose of material containing asbestos in any domestic or commercial bin and doing so can incur very heavy fnes. Asbestos waste should always be disposed of at a landfll that is licensed to accept it. For further advice about managing or disposing of household asbestos or obtaining a Household Asbestos Testing kit, contact your local council or visit https://www.newaste.org. au/asbestos

For further information on asbestos safety visit https:// www.asbestos.nsw.gov.au

Byron Shire beaches restored ahead of summer holidays

Robert Heyward

Byron Shire Council has commenced major works to restore beach access ways and improve public safety across the Shire’s popular coastline, ensuring beaches are ready for locals and visitors ahead of the busy summer holiday period. The program, funded by the NSW Government, follows signifcant damage caused earlier this year by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, which eroded dunes and damaged beach access infrastructure at several locations.

Beaches under repair

Restoration work is already completed at Sufolk Park Beach, with crews now moving north along the coast. Upcoming works include:

l New Brighton Beach and South Golden Beach: Monday 17 November to Friday 28 November — starting from the North Head Road access and progressing north to the fnal access point at South Golden Beach.

l Brunswick Heads Beach: Monday 1 December to Friday 12 December — focusing on the beach access near the Surf Club.

l Belongil Beach: Early December to Friday 19 December — including Childe Street (old jetty), Border Street, Don Street and North Beach access points.

Safety reminders for the public

Council’s Coordinator of Open Spaces, Jim Roberts, reminded beachgoers to take extra care while works are underway.

“While it’s great news that we can get these beach access ways restored ahead of the summer holidays, we need people to stay well away from heavy machinery on the beach while this work takes place,” Mr Roberts said.

He urged visitors to respect temporary closures and signposted work zones, stressing that safety is the top priority.

“If you come to a closed beach access way, please don’t ignore the signs.

We’ll reopen access as soon as each section is completed. There will always be other open access points nearby.”

A safer, more accessible coastline

The restoration program includes rebuilding wooden chain ladders, removing debris and vegetation, and reshaping dunes where needed — particularly at New Brighton Beach, where minor sand relocation will stabilise steep areas. Mr Roberts also asked dog owners to help ensure safety around work sites.

“Most of these beaches are dog of-lead areas, so if you see machinery, please keep dogs on lead or visit another area until work is done,” he said.

Weather may afect the schedule, but Council expects all major works to be completed before the school holidays begin. Further restoration at New Brighton Beach is planned for 2026, pending additional funding. Updates will be available on Byron Shire Council’s website

Asbestos containing materials are still present in 1 in 3 homes across Australia and can release dangerous airborne fbers when damaged, deteriorated or disturbed.

KYOGLE CARAVAN PARK RE-OPENS AFTER $1.8 MILLION UPGRADE

Jef Gibbs

The Kyogle Gardens Caravan Park will ofcially re-open this Friday, 14 November, following a major $1.8 million upgrade that has transformed the muchloved facility into a modern and welcoming destination for visitors.

The redevelopment includes 27 powered and 10 unpowered sites, a brand-new amenities building with hot showers, toilets—including an accessible facility—and a well-equipped laundry. Internal roads have been sealed for easier access, with upgraded lighting, improved drainage, and a new dump point for waste disposal also added. The park’s natural charm has been enhanced through fresh landscaping, including a corridor of native fora that complements Kyogle’s picturesque setting.

Visitors can now make reservations easily

through a new online booking system available via the Visit Kyogle website

Kyogle Mayor Cr Danielle Mulholland said the reopening marks a major boost for local tourism and the broader economy.

“The Kyogle Local Government Area is known for its natural beauty and country

hospitality, and the new-look caravan park will make it even easier for travellers to enjoy everything our area has to ofer,” Cr Mulholland said.

“Tourism is a vital part of our local economy, and the improved facilities and convenience of the upgraded caravan park will help attract more visitors who will be

inclined to stay longer in our area. This in turn will support local businesses and jobs.”

The $1.8 million project was jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments through the Department of Regional NSW, refecting a shared commitment to regional infrastructure and community growth.

Landlords Face New Penalties Under NSW Crackdown on Illicit Tobacco and Vaping

Jef Gibbs

The Minns Labor Government has introduced the Public Health (Tobacco) Amendment (Landlord Ofences) Bill 2025, creating a new ofence for commercial landlords who knowingly allow tenants to use their premises for the sale of illicit tobacco or illegal vapes.

The proposed ofence carries a maximum penalty of one year imprisonment, a $165,000 fne, or both.

The new measure targets landlords who are aware of unlawful tobacco or vaping activity occurring on their properties yet fail to report the conduct or take reasonable steps to remove the tenant. The legislation follows extensive consultation, including roundtables with landlords, retailers, health advocates, multiple government agencies, and feedback from a public ‘Have Your Say’ survey.

The reforms come as NSW Health and NSW Police intensify enforcement eforts, closing down illicit tobacco and vape stores across the state. Between 1 January

and 27 October 2025, NSW Health Inspectors carried out approximately 1,260 retailer inspections, seizing more than 11.8 million cigarettes, over 2,000 kilograms of illicit tobacco, and around 170,000 illegal vaping products. The seized goods carry an estimated street value of $18.9 million. Over the same period, the NSW Ministry of Health fnalised 17 prosecutions, resulting in $597,200 in courtimposed fnes, with a further 27 matters still before the courts.

This bill builds on earlier reforms aimed at dismantling the illicit trade, including tougher penalties for the possession and sale of illegal tobacco, new closure orders for non-compliant retailers, and expanded powers allowing landlords to terminate leases where closure orders apply.

Health Minister Ryan Park said the reforms ensure landlords share responsibility in preventing illegal sales, reinforcing a fair and balanced approach to protecting communities.

Photo from the Kyogle Council website ©

Richmond Valley

CHRISTMAS EVENTS CHRISTMAS EVENTS

“Leemo has views on just about anything”

‘JUST PLEASE THINK ABOUT IT”

‘Mum Jane’ my most Yummy Mummy, (‘Leemo Cat’ here) I have a question for you which is, to me, of great import and I want you to answer it after deep thought.’ Hmm, I got the stare-glare eye raised eyebrows prune face look. ‘Firstly, Leems, QUIT THE SUCK-UP stuf! You know I detest it: ask your question & keep it brief – Gottit?’ (Crikey, she’s in her intolerant old woman hormonal crabby mood) Not to worry. ‘Well Mum, I have pondered for some time about something. HAVE YOU have ever thought about what it’s like to be A CAT? I want you to think about this seriously ‘cos there is a ‘LOCK EM UP ‘COS WE DON’T LIKE CATS’ movement afoot by someone called Higginsbottom. Myself & the buddies are most perturbed about this & what lies ahead for us. Some bad-mouthing vote-chasing Politicians have NO BLOODY IDEA! We cats (and puppies) bring much joy to the world.

AND MUM, 86% OF PEOPLE believe older adults experience improved mental & physical health if they experience interaction with Pets in Aged Care facilities. We don’t ask much in return except treats, pats, hugs, nice words & kindness. (like humans in fact.) We purr, frisk, lie in the sun to warm our tummies, clean our coats, use our Litter Trays tidily (at times), lick our treat bowls

shiny clean & we even allow humans to pick us up & squeeze us saying discomforting stuf like ‘’What a wonderful sweet kitty-witty you are stuf.’ ‘Anyhow Mum, getting back to our concerns about the plan to put us all in some sorta lock-up situation. This came about ‘cos word spread that ‘we’ felines are killers of birdies in great numbers. Mum, this is so NOT TRUE! Apart from ‘Kooka’ & ‘Mavis’ the Magpie, who are my buddy birds, you are more than aware that some birdies chase & scare me & also steal my treats when you bring my bowl OUT for me (whilst I am in reposeful meditation on the grass) saving me the exertion having to & come inside to eat. AND, Mum, documented Reports confrm defnitively that HABITAT LOSS (NOT CATS) is the most signifcant threat to birdie populations due to urban sprawl, agriculture and resource extraction. As cities & farming areas (Windfarms?) expand, natural birdie habitats are changed or destroyed meaning they lose their vital environments for nesting, feeding & migration. So, Mum, do you comprehend how we feel? AND, MUM, I told you why animals turn feral. As well as habitat loss, we are either neglected or abandoned BY humans: like humans we need to eat to survive so we hunt, a natural born instinct: (humans go to Supermarkets) this attracts the ire of some humans who SEEM to have no bloody comprehension of the overall scenario, pretty sad huh Mum?’ Crikey, I was picked up & given the softest hugs & rubs. ‘Nup my beautiful Leems, I have no understanding of what it would be like to be a cat. All you’ve gotta know is that I love you heaps & will always look out for you & the Buddies and ALL animals & birdies’ Nite with purr purrsies. Leemo, the Buddies & Birdies.

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.

Flood Survivor Diary Hits Home

The “Diary of a Flood Survivor” really struck a chord. It’s raw and relatable, reminding us that recovery is still a daily grind for many families. I admire the honesty in describing the frustrations — especially around insurance — and the resilience it takes to keep going. Please keep publishing these refections; they give a voice to people still rebuilding their lives quietly.

—R Miller, Woodburn

Keep It Coming, Leemo Leemo’s antics give the paper heart and humour. Please give that cat his own book.

— T. Fraser, Grafton

Liberals bowing to the Nationals So disappointed in the Liberals bowing to the Nationals in dumping net zero emissions.

I foresee the future of parliament will be Labour, Green, Teal and independents. The science is saying something that

the Hicksville mob don’t want to hear.

— Wilko, Green Pigeon

Council Must Stop the Infghting Clarence Valley Council has become a circus. Ratepayers are tired of councillors storming out of meetings and using public money for personal disputes. It’s time for some dignity and professionalism. If they can’t work together, they shouldn’t be in ofce.

— D Turner, Grafton

Your New Website is Brilliant

Hats of to The Northern Rivers Times! The new website is fast, easy to navigate and always bursting with fresh local updates. I’ve stopped checking other outlets because you’re consistently frst with breaking news. It’s what local journalism should look like.

— L Edwards, Ballina

Flood Recovery Eforts That Truly Help The Repair to Return extension shows government and community working hand in hand. Resilient Lismore and GIVIT have done wonders for families still struggling after 2022. It’s practical help, not just promises — proof that compassion can rebuild homes and hope.

— S Knight, Lismore

Call for Clarity in Clarence Council Cr Yager’s motion for a governance workshop is a welcome step. It’s time councillors understood their roles instead of attacking each other. Maybe then the public will regain a little confdence in their leadership.

— M Harris, Maclean

Chekhov Column Was Brilliant

Nigel Dawe’s Chekhov piece was beautiful — thoughtful writing that makes you slow down and think.

— M. Lacey, Lismore

Recipe Page of the Year

Between the rissoles and the tart, the cooking page is pure joy. Food, humour, and humanity — it’s a winner.

— D. Fielding, Coolangatta

Council Should Listen on Assisted Dying It’s deeply unfair that elderly residents in small towns like Coraki and

Yamba could be forced to leave their homes to access voluntary assisted dying. Compassion shouldn’t depend on your postcode or your facility’s religion. Everyone deserves dignity and choice at the end of life. Parliament needs to fx this before more families face heartbreak and upheaval.

— P. Wallace, Coraki

Livestock Market

Confdence

The strong turnout and solid results at the NRLX sale show that rural confdence isn’t dead. Despite patchy weather, our producers are still showing up with quality stock. But while big prices make good headlines, smaller farmers are feeling the pinch of transport costs and feed shortages. It’s time markets and agents gave them more practical support between sales.

— E. Thomas, Casino

Cheeky Recipes Keep the Paper Fun

I can’t remember the last time a recipe made me laugh out loud! The Chicken Caesar Rissoles were not only delicious but genuinely funny. It’s nice to see cooking treated as joy, not perfection. The Northern Rivers Times has nailed the mix of humour and heart — please keep the sass coming on the food pages.

— S. Field, Ballina

Leemo’s Litter Laughs Leemo the Cat is comedy gold. That “Fortress Plan” column was the best laugh of my week!

— A. Green, Byron Bay

Uki’s Post Ofce Shines Again

The “8 Years On” exhibition at the Uki Post Ofce proves art and community thrive together. Gary Wall and Sue Kinneally have turned a humble building into the beating heart of Uki. It’s charming, local and endlessly creative — more of this, please!

— M Young, Uki

Gratitude to GIVIT

Volunteers I was one of the lucky ones helped by GIVIT and Resilient Lismore. Their volunteers are the unsung heroes of the food recovery. The Repair to Return program isn’t just fxing walls — it’s restoring dignity. Deep thanks to everyone involved.

— F Byrne, Lismore Heights

Time for New Blood in Clarence Richie Williamson’s achievements are admirable, but politics needs renewal. The Clarence deserves fresh ideas on housing, jobs and environment. Let’s see some new candidates step up in 2027.

— B Howe, Evans Head

Seniors Deserve the Spotlight

Tamara Smith’s call to honour seniors is wonderful. Too often their volunteer work goes unnoticed. These awards remind us that generosity and experience keep our communities ticking.

— K Olsen, Lennox Head

BMX Boost for Young Riders

Fantastic to hear the Clarence Valley BMX Club’s getting a new surface. It’ll inspire young riders and give families another great weekend activity. Sport like this builds stronger, happier towns.

— T Andrews, Grafton Sport with Spirit Reading about the Casino bowlers and Cherry Street croquet players was a reminder of what real community looks like — friendly rivalry and plenty of laughter. But I’d love to see even more young people getting involved. These clubs are part of our local heartbeat, not just a pastime for retirees.

— B. Andrews, Lismore Pride in Southern Cross University Reading about the SCU Alumni Awards flled me with pride. From Olympian Moesha Johnson to community leader Theresa Mitchell, these graduates show regional education can change the world.

— E Gibson, Ballina Faith and Fairness Can Coexist Faith-based care homes deserve respect for their beliefs, but patient rights must come frst. Compassion is universal.

— M. Spence, Mullumbimby

NRLX Market Shows Strength

The latest cattle sale results are encouraging — strong prices show resilience. Farmers are fghting through tough seasons with pride.

T. Hay, Casino

Cricket’s Golden Oldies

Still Deliver

Matt Young’s bowling masterclass for Harwood proves experience counts. It’s great to see seasoned players showing younger ones that local sport isn’t just about youth — it’s about passion. The Clarence competition feels alive again, and long may that continue.

— H. Cooper, Maclean

Insurance Injustice

The food survivor column revealed a harsh truth — some homes are now uninsurable. It’s disgraceful that residents are left unprotected. The state must compel insurers to cover high-risk areas or create a public option.

— A Simons, Kempsey

Council Needs a Reset

The dysfunction at Clarence Valley Council has gone too far. Endless disputes, secrecy, walkouts — enough! Bring in an administrator if that’s what it takes to restore order.

— J Morley, Grafton

Council Needs to Refocus

Clarence Valley Council’s squabbles are beyond embarrassing. Ratepayers want potholes fxed, not politicians posturing. If councillors can’t act like adults, they should step aside for people who can.

— R. Glover, Grafton

Wilsons Creek Works

Give Hope

After years of waiting, the Wilsons Creek Road upgrade is fnally happening. It’s our lifeline during foods. Seeing proper funding fow here shows that persistence pays of.

— D Cole, Wanganui

SCU Leads the Way on Neurodiversity

Kudos to Southern Cross University for ofering courses in neurodiversity and circular economy. That’s the kind of forward thinking that will shape a kinder, smarter workforce.

— H Dean, Tweed Heads

Yager and Cairns Show True Leadership

Good on Crs Yager and Cairns for speaking up about transparency. It takes backbone to question internal politics. We need more like them across Northern Rivers councils.

— R Beattie, Yamba

Adopt-A-Family Brings

Christmas Spirit

Every year I look forward to the Adopt-A-Family drive. Giving local kids a reason to smile is the real magic of Christmas. Count me in again this season!

— S James, Ballina

Williamson Earns Another Go

Richie Williamson continues to deliver results despite being in opposition. From hospitals to schools, he gets things done. He’s earned another term representing us.

— E Foster, Maclean

Roads That Withstand the Next Flood

The $10 million for Wilsons Creek Road is money well spent. Stronger infrastructure saves lives and livelihoods when the next big storm hits. Great to see all levels of government cooperating.

— C Roberts, Mullumbimby

Keep Art Accessible Art Post Uki is brilliant, but I hope it remains afordable. Local artists and visitors alike should enjoy it without feeling

priced out of their own community hub.

— J Greer, Murwillumbah

Clarifying Council Priorities

Clarence Valley councillors should spend less time defending egos and more time fxing potholes. Ratepayers deserve focus on results, not rhetoric.

— F Martin, Ulmarra

A Safer, Greener Compromise

Kevin Hogan’s right to challenge blanket speed cuts, but let’s not dismiss safety. A smarter balance — better roads and targeted speed zones — could serve everyone.

— L Paterson, Kyogle

Up-to-the-Minute Local News

Your revamped website is part of my morning routine now. I love the instant updates and how easy it is to read on my phone. Local journalism done right!

— K Waters, Casino

Recognise More Everyday Heroes

Jason Whitton’s award was well deserved, but let’s also celebrate the quiet hospital cleaners, porters and nurses who make care possible every day.

— T Brown, Goonellabah

Workshop Welcome, But Actions Speak Louder

A governance workshop is a good start, but unless it leads to change, it’s meaningless. The Clarence public expects more than polite discussion — we want visible reform.

— A Lane, Iluka The Real Heroes of Health

Jason Whitton’s humility was touching. His kindness shines a light on the spirit

of regional hospitals — where compassion counts more than titles.

— S Walton, Casino

Keep the Momentum Going Extending Repair to Return is positive, but the need remains enormous. Don’t let the funding dry up while so many are still waiting for help.

— B Milton, Coraki

Local Business Shines Advertising in The Northern Rivers Times clearly works — small businesses are seeing real returns. That’s good news for regional media.

— T. Lawson, Grafton

Keep Local Journalism Strong

This paper proves print still matters. Balanced reporting and humour — you can’t get that from social media.

— J. Lang, Murwillumbah

Speed Limit Madness

A 70 km/h cap on regional roads? That’s lunacy. Fix the roads instead of slowing everyone down. Rural life depends on mobility.

— P Carter, Casino

A Call for Broader Giving

Adopt-A-Family is fantastic, but perhaps next year we could include isolated seniors too. Loneliness hurts as much as poverty.

— L Carter, Lismore

Don’t Forget Smaller Roads

Good on government for fxing Wilsons Creek Road, but spare a thought for lesser-known rural lanes still riddled with landslips. Equal attention, please.

— P Lawson, Huonbrook

By Nigel Dawe

TO not take stock of your own development is to do the greatest disservice to whatever potential you might possess. Thus, every now and then we all need to do a stocktake, well I do anyway. Along the lines of: where could I be, should I be, and fnally – what is it that I am actually doing right now, not to mention, where is it all leading? One common denominator for me is that I’ve never been able to do or be anything other than who I am, that being stacked, backed and bolstered by what I believe to be true.

At the start of my adult working life, I set myself the challenge of being consistently and transparently the same person everywhere I went: be that a backyard BBQ, boardroom, loungeroom, courtroom. Wherever I go, I endeavour to present the same face, views and persona so as to not compromise any values when that time comes to look myself in the mirror at the end of each day. Who knows what I’d be doing if I could ‘play that game’ of being whoever others wanted me to be; I never did – so I guess I’ll never know.

For better or worse, I’ve always been drawn to the rustic and doggedly real, values and views of the American sage of authenticity himself, Henry David Thoreau, who once said, “Pursue some path, however narrow and crooked, in which you can walk with love and reverence... Amid a world of noisy, shallow actors it is noble

to stand aside and say, ‘I will simply be’.” Which is something that rolls of the tongue in such a well-oiled fashion; but to actually put it into practice, takes a lifetime of honesty, discipline and conviction.

Relatedly, none other than Mahatma Gandhi who was later greatly inspired by Thoreau’s 1849 essay On Civil Disobedience, which he wrote after being jailed for refusing to pay his taxes ‘in support’ of a government in which he disapproved (being one that still tolerated human slavery). As if reading from the same dignifed hymn sheet, Gandhi once noted, “Life is an aspiration. Its mission is to strive after perfection, which is self-realisation. The ideal must not be lowered because of our weaknesses or imperfections.” Rather, it should be pursued all the more, because of such things.

Perhaps a mere selfacquaintance, rather than self-realisation, might be a more attainable goal for the majority of us to pursue, but striving to reach that mercurial point of realisation is surely one of life’s most admirable objectives. As if providing a clue as to how we might go about it, the Portuguese writer Fernando Pessoa once said, “My soul is a hidden orchestra; I know not what instruments, what fddlestrings and harps, drums and tamboura I sound and clash inside myself. All I hear is the symphony.” And being able to hear and then heed the unique sound of our own personal symphony is assuredly the most apt place for any of us to start.

Couple Embrace Freedom at Lincoln Lifestyle Northern Rivers

Jef Gibbs

Retirees Ken Crampton and Sharyn Taylor have found their dream lifestyle at Lincoln Lifestyle Northern Rivers, combining the joy of travel with the comfort of home.

Settled in a peaceful gated community in Gulmarrad, just six kilometres from Maclean, the couple enjoy a “lockup and leave” lifestyle that allows them to explore Australia in their caravan while knowing their home and garden are secure.

“We can keep doing what we love, which is exploring Australia, while our home and garden are in safe hands,” Sharyn said.

Before choosing Lincoln Lifestyle Northern Rivers, the pair toured multiple over-50s communities from Bundaberg to Hervey Bay. What won them over was the tranquillity, open space, and welcoming atmosphere of their new Northern Rivers base — surrounded by bushland and friendly neighbours.

“It’s peaceful with a beautiful outlook of trees and kangaroos hopping about. We enjoy

breathtaking sunrises and are close to Brooms Head and Yamba,” Sharyn said.

Ken added that their home feels like an upgrade rather than a downsize:

“We’ve got three bedrooms, a big kitchen, huge pantry, media room, and a double carport with space for our caravan. It’s a great base to come home to.”

Security and community spirit are central to the appeal.

“Before we moved here, we often worried about our home while away. Now, with neighbours who look out for each other, it feels

so secure,” Sharyn said.

The couple spend around four months each year travelling but enjoy social activities when home — from bowls and pickleball to yoga and pilates on site.

Community Manager Rebecca Woodleigh said the estate attracts people who value independence and connection.

“It’s perfect for travellers who love the freedom to lock-up and leave whenever adventure calls,” she said. “The homes are modern, spacious and low maintenance.”

Lincoln Lifestyle Northern Rivers operates

under a land lease model, ofering residents full home ownership and potential capital gains while leasing the land. There are no stamp duty costs, body corporate or exit fees, and a weekly site fee covers community upkeep and facilities.

New homes are available now from $565,000, with more amenities — including a clubhouse, pool and gym — currently under development.

For tours or enquiries, visit 85 Sheehans Lane, Gulmarrad, call 1300 844 492, or go to lincolnplace. com.au

Further Work to Boost NSW Bush re Resilience Six Years On

Robert Heyward

Six years after the devastating Black Summer bushfres, the NSW Government continues to strengthen community preparedness and emergency response ahead of the 2025/26 bushfre season. Transport for NSW has worked with emergency agencies and more than 170 local, regional and Bushfre Emergency Management Committees to ensure operational readiness across the state. In 2025 alone, Transport has participated in more than 60 emergency readiness exercises to prepare for foods and bushfres.

A major milestone has been the rollout of 219 new roadside signs displaying local ABC radio frequencies, fulflling Recommendation

from the NSW Bushfre Inquiry. The signs are strategically placed in high-risk areas, particularly where mobile reception is limited, helping residents tune into vital emergency broadcasts.

There are now more than 300 signs statewide, including 64 in Greater Sydney, 58 in northern NSW, 54 in the south and 43 in the west.

To improve on-theground frefghting support, Transport for NSW has installed new 30,000-litre water tanks at the Bundjalung Rest Area and Pine Brush Creek Northbound Rest Area on the Pacifc Highway, providing vital refll points for the NSW Rural Fire Service and Fire and Rescue NSW These installations, located between Glenugie and Tabbimobile in the Clarence Valley LGA,

reduce refll delays and support faster emergency response.

The department has also increased vegetation control along major roads, reducing fuel loads and creating efective frebreaks in high-risk corridors.

Coordinator-General Howard Collins said the initiatives were about protecting lives and ensuring safer road travel.

“We’re proud to continue delivering on the Bushfre Inquiry recommendations.

Hosting water tanks and improving roadside signage help keep communities safe and informed,” he said.

ABC Head of Emergency Donna Field said radio remains an essential lifeline during disasters.

“Even when other communication channels are disrupted, radio

Book

continues to provide reliable, up-to-date information,” she said.

RFS Deputy Commissioner Ben Millington welcomed the new water tanks and broader preparedness initiatives.

“Every minute saved accessing water can make a real diference to protecting life, property and the environment,” he said. “Bushfre safety is a shared responsibility — we urge everyone to prepare and stay informed.”

Residents can view the map of new sign locations via Transport for NSW.

Forces of Good and Evil prepare to battle

Title: Tomes of Ascension: On Wing

Author: A.G. Charlton

Price: $5.99 (Kindle)

Distributor: Amazon

Lauralee and Syline are back for the second stage of their adventure, continuing on from the frst book Tomes of Ascension: Taking Flight but this time they are working together.

Or so it appears.

Syline’s family have rallied the troops across Russenholde to go in search of the Scholar to destroy his domain, taking in to account the experiences she had while she battled, frst on her own and then eventually with her group of trusted friends.

The Scholars minions are creating havoc and spreading hate and evil across her beloved land and Syline wants to use her expertise and experience to destroy him.

She gathers her small group of friends who

have proven themselves in the face of horror. Meanwhile Lauralee and the Mother’s Hand, that secretive nest of vampires, are working in the wings, waiting for their chance to have their day in the sun, fguratively speaking. Lauralee infltrates the halls of the heart of Russenholde by befriending Syline, but will the young woman have more of an impact on the vampire than Lauralee plans? Will the Scholar be overwhelmed by the forces of good?

This is the second book in the Tomes of Ascension series by A.G. Charlton.

A love of all things Fantasy has helped the author to create a world where demons, witches, heroes and vampires come to life in an adventure for everyone. You can pre-order your copy of Tomes of Ascension: On Wing through amazon.com.au

Sharyn Taylor and Ken Crampton at home at Lincoln Lifestyle Northern Rivers

Don’t Let Scammers Steal Your Christmas Cheer

With the festive season fast approaching, Australia Post is warning customers to stay alert as scammers ramp up fake delivery messages and phishing scams designed to steal personal and fnancial information.

Fraudsters are increasingly targeting Facebook Marketplace users, posing as interested buyers and sending fake

links or QR codes via Messenger to counterfeit “Australia Post courier service” websites. These fraudulent pages claim to process payments and schedule courier pickups — but instead, they harvest victims’ personal data and banking details.

Research by Australia Post reveals that more than 90% of Australians have received a scam text or

call, with nearly threequarters saying the scams impersonated shipping or delivery services.

Australia Post Chief Information Security

Ofcer Adam Cartwright urged customers to only track parcels through ofcial channels.

“As pre-Christmas sales ramp up, scammers are exploiting people’s anticipation for deliveries,”

he said. “If you receive a message asking for personal or payment details, it’s not from us. The safest way to track your parcels is through the ofcial AusPost app.”

Key safety tips for customers:

• Download the ofcial AusPost app and enable notifcations for secure parcel tracking.

• Remember: Australia

Post will never ask for passwords, credit card, or banking details via text, email, or phone.

• Avoid clicking on suspicious links in messages or emails.

Australia Post is also warning of a resurgence in sophisticated phishing scams, including the global “Darcula” operation, which uses encrypted platforms like

iMessage and RCS to bypass spam flters.

Customers can create a free MyPost account at auspost.com.au/receiving/ mypost or download the AusPost app from the Apple Store or Google Play for secure tracking. For more tips on spotting fake messages, visit the Australia Post Scam Alerts page at auspost. com.au/ScamAlerts.

NORPA Launches “The Village Circuit” with Regional Tour of Prima Facie

Jef Gibbs

Northern Rivers’ own NORPA is taking worldclass theatre on the road with the launch of The Village Circuit, a new annual summer touring program designed to connect regional towns through live performance. The inaugural season will feature Suzie Miller’s award-winning play Prima Facie, a powerful and provocative production that has captivated audiences from Sydney to London’s West End and Broadway. The production, starring Matilda Ridgway (The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time), will tour Byron Bay, Tweed Heads, Murwillumbah, Kyogle, Grafton, and Lismore throughout February 2026

Written by Australian playwright Suzie Miller (RBG: Of Many One, Inter Alia), Prima Facie is a fearless and deeply human story that confronts the intersection of law, gender, and power. It follows a

Northern Rivers. The program will create a recurring cultural trail, touring a major production each summer to community venues — much like the beloved rhythm of the local

connection. 2026 Tour Dates

• Byron Bay: Thu 12 – Sat 14 Feb | Byron Theatre

• Tweed Heads: Thu 19 Feb | Tweed Heads Civic Centre

The Village Circuit is about bringing topquality performance directly to our regional communities,” said a NORPA spokesperson. “It’s an annual opportunity to gather, connect, and experience stories that entertain, challenge, and inspire — all without leaving your hometown

markets or footy season.

criminal defence barrister whose faith in the legal system is shattered when she becomes the victim of an assault. The work combines sharp legal insight with emotional intensity, challenging audiences to question what justice truly means for women in modern society.

The Village Circuit, NORPA’s latest initiative, aims to make professional theatre accessible to audiences across the

Audiences can expect theatre that is bold, thought-provoking, and rooted in both local and global perspectives. Each performance on the circuit becomes part of a shared regional story — celebrating creativity, community, and

• Murwillumbah: Fri 20 Feb | Murwillumbah Civic Centre

• Kyogle: Sat 21 Feb | Kyogle Memorial Hall

• Grafton: Wed 25 Feb | Saraton Theatre

• Lismore: Fri 27 – Sat 28 Feb | Star Court Theatre For tickets and updates, visit www.norpa.org.au

Small Grant Applications Now Open for the Seed Giving Circle

Robert Heyward

Seed Northern Rivers has announced the opening of its frst small-grant round through the newly formed Seed Giving Circle, ofering support to local projects tackling environmental and climate challenges across the Northern Rivers. Created to nurture grassroots initiatives, the Seed Giving Circle connects communityminded locals with emerging changemakers, ofering both fnancial support and mentoring. The inaugural grant

round, backed by 60 local contributors, aims to strengthen projects that promote environmental action, climate resilience and regenerative practices throughout the region.

Eligible projects can apply for small grants of up to $5000, with applications closing on 2 December 2025. The program is seeking initiatives that align

with the vision of a regenerative Northern Rivers and that demonstrate tangible environmental or climatefocused outcomes.

“This is about local people investing in local ideas,” said founding member Oriel Patterson.

“Big change starts small — and by planting these seeds of support, we can each play a part in creating a fourishing future for our region.”

Projects may include environmental restoration, conservation work, regenerative agriculture, circular economy

initiatives, cultural or healing events that deepen connection to Bundjalung Country, creative storytelling projects, or communitybased resilience eforts addressing climate impacts.

Beyond fnancial assistance, Seed Northern Rivers plans to match successful applicants with mentors, peer networks and opportunities to engage with other community changemakers.

These supports will formally grow into the Changemaker Collective,

launching in 2026.

“The Seed Giving Circle is about more than funding — it’s about collaboration,” said Seed Northern Rivers director Techa Beaumont. “By coming together around grassroots ideas for positive change, each of us can help shape the future we want for our children.”

Grant applications close 2nd December 2025. Applicants are encouraged to visit https:// seednorthernrivers.org. au/grant-request for guidelines and application details.

Matilda Ridgway leads NORPA’s Prima Facie to launch new Village Circuit this summer. Photo: SUPPLIED

Marine Rescue NSW Records

Busiest Start to Boating Season

Robert Heyward

Marine Rescue NSW volunteers have recorded their busiest-ever start to a boating season, carrying out 460 search and rescue missions in October — including 130 emergency responses — and safely returning 989 people to shore.

Acting Commissioner Todd Andrews said the fgures marked a signifcant increase in activity, following a record-breaking September.

“We’ve seen a 19% rise in demand compared to the same month last year, which was already our

busiest October,” he said. “Our 3,500 volunteers were in high demand as boaters took advantage of good weather during the spring holidays and long weekend.”

The 2025/26 boating season began on 1 October and runs until ANZAC Day 2026

However, engine failure remains a major concern, accounting for 44% of all responses

“It’s clear many skippers hit the water without proper maintenance,”

Acting Commissioner Andrews said. “Servicing your engine before the season starts can prevent potentially life-

threatening situations.”

October also saw record-breaking activity in several regions, with the Mid North Coast, Hunter Central Coast, and Monaro regions all reporting their busiestever months, while Greater Sydney equalled its 2020 record of 177 missions.

Marine Rescue NSW radio operators managed 21,050 calls, including 15 MAYDAYs and four Pan Pans, while keeping watch over 27,390 people logged on via the service’s app or VHF Channel 16. Boaters are reminded they can Log On with Marine Rescue NSW to

ensure they’re monitored while on the water.

“Every safe trip starts before you hit the water,”

Acting Commissioner Andrews said.

Regional Highlights:

Northern Rivers: 25 missions, 14 emergency responses, 67 people rescued.

Hotspots: Point Danger (14), Ballina (3), Evans Head (3), Iluka Yamba (3).

Mid North Coast (Record): 33 missions, 19 emergency responses, 56 people rescued.

Marine Rescue Ballina responds to a call for assistance ofshore

Hotspots: Forster Tuncurry (14), Port Macquarie (5), Trial Bay (5), Crowdy Harrington (5).

Hunter Central Coast (Record): 155 missions, 34 emergency responses, 310 people rescued.

Hotspots: Lake Macquarie (62), Brisbane Water (29), Port Stephens (28).

Greater Sydney (Equal Record): 177 missions, 30 emergency responses, 413 people rescued.

Illawarra: 43 missions,

17 emergency responses, 78 people rescued. Monaro (Record): 27 missions, 16 emergency responses, 65 people rescued.

Marine Rescue NSW remains a volunteerbased, not-for-proft organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe and supporting local communities across the state.

NEW BBQ TRAILER TO BOOST ROTARY CLUB OF UPPER RICHMOND’S

Jef Gibbs

The Rotary Club of Upper Richmond will soon have a major boost to its community service eforts, following the approval of a $19,990 grant under the NSW Government’s Community Building Partnership Program.

Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson announced the funding, which will enable the club to purchase a fully equipped BBQ trailer to enhance its presence at local events and during emergency response eforts.

Mr Williamson praised the club for its commitment to the community and congratulated members on their successful application.

NBN

Jef Gibbs

“The Rotary Club of Upper Richmond plays a vital role in bringing people together and supporting the community, especially when help is needed most,” he said. “This new BBQ trailer will make it easier for volunteers to continue their great work and expand their reach across the Richmond Valley.”

Club Secretary Narelle Oomen said the grant would signifcantly help the newly established club operate more efciently.

“Without a BBQ trailer, we had to load boxes of utensils, pots, pans and the barbecue into a couple of cars,” Ms Oomen said. “It could take four or fve people ages to get

COMMUNITY SUPPORT

everything packed. With a dedicated trailer, all our equipment will be in one place, and just two people will be able to manage transport and set-up.”

She said the upgrade would allow the club to respond more quickly during emergencies, support more community events, and even cater for private functions when needed.

“We’re very grateful to Richie and the NSW Government — the help is truly appreciated.”

Mr Williamson said the project refects the importance of the Community Building Partnership Program in strengthening grassroots organisations and creating more connected communities.

Hosting Free Community Sessions in Kyogle

Residents and businesses across Kyogle and surrounding areas are set to beneft from signifcant nbn network upgrades, with the rollout of full fbre and fxed wireless improvements now complete.

More than 813 homes and businesses in Kyogle and Geneva can now access full fbre connections,

while communities in Bonalbo, Wiangaree, and Mallanganee are experiencing faster, more reliable internet under the national Fixed Wireless Upgrade Program. The upgrades form part of a $750 million investment, including $480 million from the Australian Government and $270 million from NBN Co, boosting connectivity for more than 800,000 premises across

Australia.

For customers, upgrading to full fbre brings faster speeds, smoother video calls, improved gaming performance, and the ability to connect multiple smart devices at once.

Eligible customers can upgrade by ordering a high-speed plan (minimum 100 Mbps download) through a participating provider.

Fixed Wireless Home

Fast is now available to around 90 per cent of the upgraded network, ofering peak wholesale speeds of up to 200–250 Mbps download and 8–20 Mbps upload, greatly enhancing digital access for rural families, students, and small businesses.

To help locals understand the upgrades and how to make the most of them, nbn’s Local Team will be holding free community

sessions this month. Residents are invited to attend, ask questions, and get practical advice on optimising their internet connections.

Community Session

Schedule

Tuesday 18 Nov, 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm – Kyogle

IGA, Summerland Way

Wednesday 19 Nov, 9 am – 4:30 pm – Kyogle

IGA, Summerland Way

Thursday 20 Nov, 9 am – 4:30 pm – Mallanganee

General Store, 60 Sandilands Street

Friday 21 Nov, 9 am – 4:30 pm – Wiangaree General Store, Worando Street

Saturday 22 Nov, 9 am – 2 pm – Kyogle Bazaar, Amphitheatre Park

Locals are encouraged to drop by and learn more about how to upgrade to full fbre or fxed wireless, or to check eligibility via nbnco.com. au

Rotary Club of Upper Richmond

Running Man 2025 flm review Times

Jef Gibbs

Northern Rivers Times

ENTERTAINMENT

November 20, 2025

The long-anticipated The Running Man (2025 flm) brings a fresh, modern edge to the iconic 1987 classic while better honouring Stephen King’s original novel.

For Australian audiences familiar with the explosive energy of the Schwarzenegger version, this new adaptation ofers a deeper, grittier and far more character-driven experience. Directed by Edgar Wright, the flm leans into its dystopian roots with fast pacing, sharp satire and slick, neon-coated visuals that feel tailor-made for today’s streamingobsessed culture.

Leading the cast is Glen Powell, starring as Ben Richards. Unlike previous portrayals, Powell’s Richards is less of a muscle-bound action titan and more an everyday man forced into heroism. He plays the role with raw intensity, capturing Richards’ fear, resilience and moral conviction

SESSION TIMES THURSDAY NOVEMBER 20 TO

as he is framed for a crime he didn’t commit. This grounded approach makes the story more relatable, especially in a world where manipulated footage and trial-bymedia increasingly shape public opinion.

Playing opposite him is Jodie Comer as Amelia Grant, a character reimagined from the original Amber Mendez. Comer’s Amelia begins as a loyal government media producer but gradually unravels the truth about the system she helps uphold. Her transformation forms one of the flm’s emotional pillars, giving Australians a strong, complex heroine whose choices shift the story’s momentum.

The flm’s antagonist, Damon Killian, is brought chillingly to life by Pedro Pascal, whose calm delivery and charismatic menace create a villain far more subtle—and far more dangerous—than the loud, game-show persona of the 1987 version. Pascal’s Killian

SPECIAL SCREENINGS

NT LIVE: INTER ALIA CTC) Thurs: 6:00PM

NT LIVE: THE FIFTH STEP (CTC Sun: 2:00PM THE LOST BOYS (M) CULT VAULT Mon: 6:00PM

PARIS OPERA BALLET: GISELLE (CTC) Sun: 1:00PM. Wed: 11:00AM

WICKED + WICKED: FOR GOOD DOUBLE FEATURE PG Sat: 2:30PM

FAMILY FILMS

KANGAROO PG) Daily: 10:45AM, 1:30PM THE BAD GUYS 2 PG) Sat, Sun: 11:00AM

runs the deadly reality show The Running Man , a national broadcast where condemned citizens must survive televised hunts carried out by highly stylised killers known as Stalkers.

The plot follows Richards as he becomes the unwilling face of rebellion. After refusing to participate in the government’s coverup of a massacre, he is arrested, framed and thrown into the game show’s deadly arena. With drones circling overhead, neon-lit slums stretching into the distance and millions watching live, Richards must fght to stay alive while exposing the truth. Meanwhile, Amelia begins leaking evidence that challenges the narrative fed to the public, creating a second battlefront in the world of propaganda and media control.

One of the most interesting elements of the 2025 flm is its use of Australian-style references to deregulated

ALL FILMS

BUGONIA MA15+ Daily except Sat, Sun: 3:50PM, 8:30PM. Sat: 3:50PM, 8:50PM. Sun: 6:40PM

DIE, MY LOVE (MA15+) Daily: 6:00PM, 8:30PM GOOD FORTUNE (M) Daily: 3:40PM JAY KELLY M) NFT Daily except Sat, Sun: 10:30AM, 1:15PM, 6:00PM. Sat: 10:30AM, 1:15PM, 7:40PM. Sun: 10:30AM, 1:15PM

JOURNEY HOME, DAVID GULPILIL (M Daily: 1:40PM

NOW YOU SEE ME: NOW YOU DON'T (M) Daily except Sat, Sun: 11:00AM, 1:20PM, 6:10PM, 8:30PM. Sat, Sun: 1:20PM, 6:10PM, 8:30PM ONE BATTLE AFTER ANOTHER (M) Thurs, Fri, Tues: 10:30AM, 1:40PM, 7:40PM. Sat: 10:30AM, 1:40PM. Sun: 10:30AM, 7:40PM. Mon: 10:30AM, 1:40PM, 8:00PM. Wed: 1:40PM, 7:40PM

media environments, misinformation and political spin. Wright has publicly discussed his fascination with how real-world democracies— Australia included— wrestle with truth in the digital age. These themes echo throughout the flm, making its satire feel uncomfortably close to reality.

Several behind-thescenes facts have already excited fans. Wright insisted on practical stunt work wherever possible, resulting in high-energy chase scenes that look visceral and authentic. The Stalkers have also been completely redesigned, each representing a modern media archetype rather than cartoonish ’80s gimmicks. One Stalker, “Gatekeeper,” uses drone surveillance and predictive algorithms, while another, “Brand”, is a corporate-backed killer whose sponsorships fash on-screen during combat.

For Australians who grew up with the original

PREDATOR: BADLANDS (M Daily: 3:50PM, 8:40PM REGRETTING YOU M) Daily except Sun: 1:00PM, 3:30PM SISU: ROAD TO REVENGE (MA15+) NFT Daily except Thurs: 4:00PM, 8:40PM. Thurs: 4:00PM, 8:50PM SPRINGSTEEN: DELIVER ME FROM NOWHERE M) Daily except Thurs: 10:30AM, 5:50PM. Thurs: 10:30AM THE RUNNING MAN (MA15+) Daily except Thurs, Mon: 10:50AM, 5:00PM, 8:20PM. Thurs: 10:50AM, 5:00PM, 8:30PM. Mon: 10:50AM, 8:20PM WICKED: FOR GOOD (PG NFT Daily except Sat, Sun: 10:45AM, 11:30AM, 1:00PM, 2:30PM, 4:00PM, 5:30PM, 7:00PM, 8:15PM. Sat: 10:45AM, 11:30AM, 1:00PM, 4:00PM, 6:00PM, 7:00PM, 8:15PM. Sun: 10:45AM, 11:30AM, 1:00PM, 2:30PM, 4:00PM, 5:30PM, 6:00PM, 7:00PM, 8:15PM

flm’s campy energy, The Running Man (2025) ofers something diferent—sleeker, sharper and far more relevant to today’s media landscape. It balances blockbuster action with a thoughtful critique of entertainment culture, all

while delivering gripping performances and stylish direction. Whether you're a returning fan or discovering the story for the frst time, this adaptation stands confdently on its own. «««« — 4 out of 5 stars

A PAW PATROL CHRISTMAS (G Daily: 10:15AM CHARADE PG) MATINEE MEMORIES Wed: 10:00AM

NOW YOU SEE ME: NOW YOU DON'T (M Daily except Sat, Sun: 2:40PM, 7:45PM. Sat, Sun: 7:30PM

PREDATOR: BADLANDS M) Daily except Sat, Sun: 2:20PM, 7:30PM. Sat, Sun: 2:20PM

REGRETTING YOU (M Daily except Wed: 10:00AM

SPRINGSTEEN: DELIVER ME FROM NOWHERE (M) Daily: 11:50AM THE RUNNING MAN (MA15+) Daily: 4:45PM

WICKED: FOR GOOD PG) NFT Daily except Sat, Sun: 10:00AM, 1:00PM, 4:00PM, 5:00PM, 7:00PM. Sat, Sun: 10:00AM, 1:00PM, 3:00PM, 4:00PM, 6:00PM, 7:00PM

BRITISH FILM FESTIVAL & SONS M) Sat: 12:30PM DEAD OF WINTER (MA15+) Fri, Wed: 12:30PM DRAGONFLY CTC) Mon: 12:30PM MOSS & FREUD (MA15+) Tues: 12:30PM THE CHORAL (M Sun: 12:30PM TWIGGY (M) Thurs: 12:30PM

PALACE BYRON BAY

BALLINA FAIR CINEMAS

PUZZLES

TIME FOR TRIVIA

Place the digits 1 to 9 in the blue squares, so that all 6 equations are correct. Multiplication and/or division are performed rst, in whichever order they appear –followed by addition and/or subtraction, in whichever order they appear.

1 In navigation, a loxodrome is also known as what type of line?

(a) Azimuth line (b) Equa line (c) Trans line (d) Rhumb line

2 Ashgabat, the capital city of Turkmenistan, lies closest to Turkmenistan’s border with which country? (a) Iran (b) Kazakhstan (c) Uzbekistan (d) Afghanistan

3 Habanera is a well-known aria from which opera? (a) Don Giovanni (b) Carmen (c) Madame Butterfly (d) Aida

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 CONTIGUOUS

(a) Happening by chance

(b) Touching

2 EXTANT (a) Still existing (b) Obsolete

3 INVEIGLE

(a) To win by beguiling

(b) To attack vehemently in words

4 OTIOSE (a) At leisure

(b) Composed of bone

5 TEMPORAL

(a) Of or relating to time

(b) Not permanent

4 The US territory of Guam is situated in which ocean?

(a) Indian Ocean (b) Atlantic Ocean (c) Pacific Ocean (d) Southern Ocean

5 In Thai cuisine, what is the base of the sauce called nam phrik? (a) Soybean (b) Fish (c) Ginger (d) Chili pepper

6 The fictional character, Max Rockatansky, is better known by what name? (a) The Terminator (b) Rocky (c) Rambo (d) Mad Max

WEEKLY CROSSWORD

MAIN

BEST ON THE BOX

FRIDAY

THE ASHES: PRE- GAME SHOW

SEVEN, 12pm

A scorching summer of cricket awaits fans, with riveting WBBL action already underway, the electrifying atmosphere of the BBL around the corner, and one of sport’s greatest rivalries – the Ashes – making its way to Perth. Seven has assembled the best in the business to call their coverage, with renowned broadcaster David “Bumble” Lloyd and former fast-bowling great Stuart Broad delivering witty, informative and entertaining commentary alongside cricket legends Ricky Ponting, Aaron Finch, Matthew Hayden and Justin Langer, to name a few. Pat Cummins’ injury, which rules the Aussie captain out of the rst Test, might have the Barmy Army thinking they’ve got a glimpse at glory.

FRIDAY, November 21

SUNDAY THE FORSYTES

ABC TV, 8.50pm

Not too many viewers would remember it, but any period drama on TV today owes a debt to the success of 1960s BBC serial

Based on John Galsworthy’s Nobel Prize-winning novels, the series drew an astounding audience of 18 million Brits for its 1969 This irresistible adaptation from Poldark screenwriter Debbie Hors eld tips its cap to the original, with leading lady Susan Hampshire (who played Fleur) welcomed into the new cast as family matriarch Lady Carteret, alongside Jack Davenport, Eleanor Tomlinson and Millie Gibson (pictured right with Joshua Orpin). Set in late 1800s London, the sumptuous costume drama follows the romances and ambitions of a prominent upper-class clan.

MONDAY

SHANE DELIA’S MALTA

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

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News

Mornings. 10.00 Portrait Artist Of The Year. (PG, R) 11.05 The Forsytes. (PG, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 The Newsreader. (Ml, R)

2.00 Grand Designs Australia. (PG, R) 2.55 QI. (PGs, R) 3.25 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery. (PG, R) 3.55 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 4.40 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (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. Tammy Huynh discovers a tropical haven.

8.30 Maigret. (PGav) Maigret is forced to confront his past when a politically connected billionaire demands his help.

9.25 Hard Quiz. (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. (Mal, R)

12.15 Rage New Music. (MA15+dhlnsv) 5.00 Rage. (PG)

SBS FOOD, 8pm

Much like Stanley Tucci’s travels through Italy and Eva Longoria’s recent trek through Spain, Shane Delia charts the history of his homeland Malta through its unique food in this docuseries. The celebrated Melbourne-based chef says the vibrant cuisine of the Mediterranean archipelago has long been overlooked, so it’s high time viewers got an authentic taste of its delectable delights, including the national dish stu at tal-fenek (rabbit stew) and street food such as pastizzi (savoury pastries). From neighbourhood bakeries to Michelin-starred restaurants, Delia proudly loads up his plate to whet our collective appetite. In Monday’s premiere, he starts his journey in Marsaxlokk.

(5) NBN (8, 80)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.05 Outta Town Adventures. (R) 10.05 Rick Steves’ Europe. (PG, R) 11.05 Wonderland: Lewis Carol To JRR Tolkien. (PGa, R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.05 Wildlife ER. (PG, R) 3.00 Nula. 3.35 The Cook Up. (PG, R) 4.05 Europe’s Greatest Train Journeys. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 The Ashes: Pre-Game Show. 1.20 Cricket. The Ashes. First Test. Australia v England. Day 1. Morning session. 3.20 The Ashes: The Lunch Break. 4.00 Cricket. The Ashes. First Test. Australia v England. Day 1. Afternoon session. 6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Zoe’s Having A Baby. (2023, 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 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Hurricanes From Above. (PGa)

8.30 Unlocking The Secrets Of The Nazca Lines. (PGa, R) A look at the Nazca Lines.

9.20 The Welsh Valley That Won The Lottery. (PG, R) A look at how a community won the lottery.

10.15 SBS World News Late.

10.45 Sisi. (MA15+av, R)

11.45 Tokyo Vice. (Malsv, R)

1.50 New Zealand From A Train. (R)

3.35 Home Of The Year: Scotland. (R)

4.40 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30. 7.00 Cricket. The Ashes. First Test. Australia v England. Day 1. Evening session. From Optus Stadium, Perth. 9.00 Cricket. Women’s Big Bash League. Match 18. Brisbane Heat v Sydney Thunder. From Allan Border Field, Brisbane. 11.30 GetOn Extra. Lizzie Jelfs, Matt Hill, Simon Marshall and Brent Zerafa dive headlong into the weekend’s best racing.

12.00 Healthy, Wealthy & Wise. (PG, R) Presented by Chrissie Swan.

1.00 In Plain Sight. (Madv) A witness makes a startling discovery.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Hosted by Simon Reeve. 5.00 NBC Today. News and current a airs.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 David Attenborough’s Asia: Saving Asia. (PGa) Presented by Sir David Attenborough.

8.45 MOVIE: The Magni cent Seven. (2016, Mv, R) Seven mercenaries are hired by a small town to protect its townsfolk from exploitation by an evil industrialist. Denzel Washington, Chris Pratt.

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

12.15 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.05 Drive TV: Launch Pad. (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)

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) Hosted by Mel Tracina.

8.40 Ambulance UK. (Ml, R) Paramedics respond to calls regarding an attempted suicide and an 81-year-old who has fallen o his mobility scooter.

9.50 The Graham Norton Show. (Mlv, R) Celebrity guests include Paul Mescal. 11.00 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 11.30 10 News+. (R) 12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.30 Home Shopping. (R) 6am Morning Programs.

(31) 6am Children’s Programs. 2.15pm Thomas. 2.50 Gardening Australia Junior. 3.05 Play School. 3.40 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 Children’s Programs. 8.00 Hot Wheels. 9.00 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family. 10.00 Bewitched. 10.30 Jeannie. 11.00 The West Wing. Noon Pretty Little Liars. 2.00 Golden Girls. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family.

9.30 BBC News At Six. 10.00 Mastermind Aust. Noon DW The Day. 12.30 Deep Fake Neighbour Wars. 1.30 France 24. 2.00 Beach Volleyball. World Championships. Quarter- nals. Afternoon session. 6.05 BBC News At Ten. 6.35 Jeopardy! 7.30 Beach Volleyball. World Championships. Quarter- nals. Evening session. 11.30 What It Feels Like For A Girl. 1.25am Adam Hills: The Last Leg. 2.15 Letterkenny. 3.10 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera. 6am The Zoo. 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 Better Homes. 5.00 Escape To The Country. 6.00 Bargain Hunt. 7.00 Better Homes. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 10.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 11.30 Late Programs. 6am Shopping. 8.00 What’s Up Down Under. 9.00 So Help Me Todd. 10.00 JAG. Noon Days Of

6am Dean Spanley. Continued. (2008, PG) 6.30 Bicycle Thief. (1948, PG, Italian) 8.05 The Ploughman’s Lunch. (1983, PG) 10.05 Marmalade. (2024, M) Noon Drunken Tai Chi. (1984, M, Cantonese) 1.40 Finding Graceland. (1998, PG) 3.30 Hajjan. (2023, PG, Arabic) 5.50 Brief Encounter. (1945, PG) 7.30 De ance. (2008, M) 9.55 Syriana. (2005, MA15+) 12.20am Lansky. (2021, MA15+) 2.30 The Client. (1994, M) 4.45 The Movie Show.

9GO! (83)

COMEDY (52) 7MATE (64) SBS MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs.

TARGET TIME

I U E

N F A

R T I

Today’s target: 18 words average 22 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

ASTROLOGY

ARIES (Mar 21 - Apr 19)

Monday’s Sun/Jupiter trine is fabulous for family catch-ups and DIY projects. But the New Moon (on Thursday) and the retro Mercury/Uranus and Sun/Uranus oppositions stir up your money zones. So financial surprises and dramas are likely unless you find a more sustainable way to manage cashflow. Extra work, less spending and more saving may be required. The weekend is wonderful for re-reading your favourite book or re-watching your favourite movie.

TAURUS (Apr 20 - May 20)

Bulls prefer to plod along in a methodical fashion but, this week, you could experience challenges and disruptions! The Sun and retrograde Mercury oppose Uranus (in your sign), so life could be stressful and unpredictable. If you prioritise tasks and are mentally flexible, then you’ll handle the hurly-burly with less stress and strain. Close relationships are also in a state of New Moon flux. The more adaptable you are, the better the final outcome will be.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 20)

With Mercury (your ruling planet) in retrograde mode (until November 30) you may feel anxious as your daily routine is disrupted in some way. Or your enthusiasm for a work project could overtake your ability to knuckle down and get the job done. If you promise more than you can deliver, then other people will just end up feeling disappointed. So slow down and listen to the wisdom of your inner voice. It will point you in the direction that’s right for you.

CANCER (June 21 - July 22)

This week a child, teenager, friend or lover could shock you by making a surprise move, or a group project could suddenly veer off in an unexpected direction. If you keep your adaptability muscles well-flexed, then you’ll adjust to the constantly changing landscape accordingly. With peace planet Venus visiting your friendship zone, stop sulking and stewing over a perceived slight from a work colleague or friend. It’s time to cooperate, compromise and sympathise!

LEO (July 23 - Aug 22)

Leos love to be the Top Cat but this week you need to ask yourself: “Am I leading others or just bossing them around?” If you power ahead without considering other people, then you’ll create unnecessary drama and disruption. So do your very best to accommodate the needs of those around you. Thursday’s New Moon activates your home zone so it’s a wonderful time to play gracious host or hostess, reconcile with a relative or start a creative DIY project.

VIRGO (Aug 23 - Sep 22)

When it comes to the way you think, blast out of a boring rut and jump into an exciting new phase. Use your imagination and think outside the box as the Sun, New Moon, Mercury and Venus activate your communication zone. So, stop avoiding issues and start discussing what you really want and need. But remember your ruler Mercury is retrograde, so do your best to communicate clearly. You can’t expect other people to magically read your mind!

LIBRA (Sep 23 - Oct 22)

Thursday’s New Moon illuminates your financial and self-esteem zones, so it’s a good time to celebrate the authentic you and embrace your so-called flaws. And some indulgent selfpampering (like an aromatherapy facial or a fullbody massage) will increase relaxation and boost confidence. The Uranus oppositions and New Moon also highlight the importance of having a realistic budget, a smart savings plan and a wellstocked emergency fund.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 - Nov 21)

This week the Sun, New Moon, Venus and retrograde Mercury are transiting through your sign. And the Mercury/Uranus and Sun/Uranus oppositions could disrupt relationships and rattle your resilience. But it’s time to bounce back, as you demonstrate (and celebrate) your strengths - including courage and persistence. Your motto is from Scorpio actress Julia Roberts: “I’m better for all the things that have happened to me, the good and the bad.”

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 - Dec 21)

Sagittarians can be feisty folk, but don’t allow yourself to be drawn into an intense argument. It would be better to watch from the sidelines. With the New Moon in your privacy zone, life will also run more smoothly if you incorporate a spiritual ritual into your daily routine. Something like yoga, tai chi, chanting, meditation or contemplation. After some quality ‘me-time’ and soulful reflection, you’ll start to see things from a refreshing new perspective.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 - Jan 19)

With the New Moon, Venus and retro Mercury visiting your hopes-and-wishes zone, it’s important to have ambitious long-term goals that you’re working towards. You’ll have to be patient, though, as you focus on bringing your dreams down to earth via a practical plan. Then – when everything is in place – you’ll know the perfect time to pounce. Your motto for the week is from birthday great, actress Goldie Hawn: “The key is to figure out what you want out of life.”

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 - Feb 18)

Uranus opposes Mercury and the Sun, which suggest a house move, family drama, uninvited guests dropping in or another kind of domestic disruption. And some Aquarians will experience changes at work. Whatever happens, strive to get the balance right between your public life and your private responsibilities. The planets also push you to reinvent a professional relationship. Just be careful you don’t get carried away and throw the baby out with the bathwater.

PISCES (Feb 19 - Mar 20)

Are your aspirations for the future ambitious enough? The New Moon favours ruminating over big-picture ideas. And there’s no room for false modesty or passive Piscean procrastination as you enjoy talking, texting, posting, promoting, socialising and circulating. The terrific Sun/ Neptune trine encourages you to come up with a creative plan and then pursue it. But an unwelcome surprise could unsettle you, so hold tight and expect the unexpected!

with Joanne Madeline Moore

The Great Moscow Circus brings its Extreme show to Alstonville

The world-renowned Great Moscow Circus is rolling into Alstonville with its breathtaking Extreme show, promising a week of high-energy performances under the iconic red-and-white Big Top at 6 South Street

From November 21 to 30, Northern Rivers audiences will experience a dazzling blend of daredevil stunts, laughter, and world-class artistry.

A legendary circus with a modern twist

Since frst touring Australia in 1965, The Great Moscow Circus has thrilled millions with its mix of daring feats and family fun. Proudly Australian-owned and operated by the Edgley and Weber families, the circus has become a cherished tradition for generations. The 2025 Extreme edition continues this legacy, combining

cutting-edge action sports with timeless circus magic. Touring internationally and across every Australian state, the Extreme show showcases elite performers from Armenia, Ukraine, Brazil, Colombia, Greece, New Zealand, and Australia, bringing together a cast of skilled daredevils, aerialists,

and comedians in a show designed to amaze and entertain.

What to expect under the Big Top

The Alstonville season delivers nonstop thrills with acts that redefne what’s possible inside the ring:

• Multi-motorcycle cage riders roar through a steel globe in a blur of

precision and power.

• BMX and Pro Scooter acrobats launch into the air with fips and spins that defy gravity.

• Aerial artists and trapeze performers soar above the crowd in graceful, awe-inspiring routines.

• The Wheel of Death , a signature crowd favourite, pushes human endurance and balance to their limits.

• A world-class clown brings light-hearted comedy, laughter, and classic charm to every show.

Complementing these feats are brilliant lighting efects, music, and costumes that create a vibrant, immersive atmosphere beneath the Big Top. Each moment blends art and adrenaline for a performance that appeals to all ages.

Alstonville showtimes

• Opening Night: Friday, 21 November – 7:00 pm

• Saturday, 22 November: 3:00 pm & 7:00 pm

• Sunday, 23 November: 11:00 am & 3:00 pm

• Thursday, 27 November: 7:00 pm

• Friday, 28 November: 7:00 pm

• Final weekend: Saturday, 29 November (3:00 pm & 7:00 pm); Sunday, 30 November (11:00 am)

There are no shows Monday 24 and Tuesday 25 November. The venue ofers wheelchair access and accepts Companion Cards, ensuring everyone can enjoy the spectacle.

A must-see event for the Northern Rivers

The Great Moscow Circus Extreme is more

than just a show — it’s an experience that celebrates courage, creativity, and connection. Perfect for families, friends, and thrill-seekers alike, this limited season in Alstonville is set to deliver unforgettable memories flled with gasps, laughter, and applause.

Tickets are available now via greatmoscowcircus.com. au — but with limited seating, early booking is highly recommended. Don’t miss this spectacular event — The Great Moscow Circus is back, and it’s more wild, extreme, and entertaining than ever before!

An Edgley – Weber Production 2025

FRIDAY 28 NOVEMBER 2025

Walk Starts: 12:30 PM

Assembly Point: Ballina Visitor Information Centre

Route: Walk to Ballina Indoor Sports Centre (BISC)

Afterwards at the BISC:

Guest Speakers – including NSW Police & community voices

Music & Dance Performances by Ballina Coast High School students

When Relationships End: Men’s Mental Health at Serious Risk

Jef Gibbs

As Australians mark Movember and focus on men’s health, Relationships Australia NSW is urging the community to recognise the emotional toll of relationship breakdowns on men — and to improve access to support services that can save lives.

Connection is protection

A long-term Australian study of more than 14,000 men found a signifcant rise in suicidal thoughts following separation, while new data from Relationships Australia’s Relationship Indicators 2024 report shows nearly four in ten Australians

have experienced a relationship breakdown. Worryingly, one in four now report feeling lonely — a fgure that continues to grow.

These fndings paint a troubling picture. Threequarters of people who die by suicide in Australia are men, and separated men are fve times more likely to take their lives than married men. Experts say this demonstrates how crucial connection and stability are to men’s mental health.

“Relationship breakdown isn’t a private failure – it’s a public-health issue,” said Elisabeth Shaw, CEO of Relationships Australia NSW.

“When men feel disconnected, their risk of depression and suicidality rises. When they feel supported and valued, everyone benefts –families, workplaces and communities.”

The unseen impact of separation

For many men, the end of a relationship can mean far more than losing a partner. It can also mean losing their main source of emotional support, their sense of belonging, and the person they confde in most.

Andrew King, Practice Specialist in Groupwork and Community Education at Relationships Australia NSW, said that men often face these struggles silently.

“Men can feel unsure who they are outside the relationship. They’ve spent years being the provider or protector, but when it ends, they can lose their sense of purpose,” he said.

“The key is helping them rebuild connection – not just with family, but with themselves.”

Breaking the silence

Almost half of Australians report managing relationship challenges on their own, with men least likely to seek help early Yet research consistently shows that social connection is one of the strongest protectors against mental-health decline.

Relationships Australia NSW provides a range of

programs aimed at helping men navigate separation, manage emotional stress, and rebuild resilience.

These include individual counselling, guided separation support, and group programs that foster community and connection.

The organisation is calling for greater investment in early-intervention services for men during and after separation, to prevent isolation and ensure support is available when it’s needed most.

“Movember has done

incredible work to start vital conversations about men’s health,” Ms Shaw said. “We now need to build on that momentum – to talk more openly about the emotional fallout of separation and make sure help is available when men need it most.”

Need support?

If you or someone you know is struggling, contact: Lifeline – 13 11 14

MensLine

Relationships

Eliminate trigger foods to beat fatigue and feel lighter this summer

Jef Gibbs

Summer is around the corner, but many of us are running out of steam between work, kids and endless to-do lists. If you’re feeling fat or foggy, the problem might not be your schedule, it could be your diet. Now, a new analysis reveals that cutting a few everyday foods could help you feel re-energised just in time for summer.

The analysisfrom FoodFit, Australia’s leading food-compatibility testing service - reveals that removing foods that trigger common symptoms such as headaches and bloating can deliver major results within just three to four weeks.

Each year, FoodFit

receives upwards of 5000 symptomatology reports from natural health practitioners. From its analysis of 2856 reports in the last year, bloating, tiredness and rashes/ itchy skin were the top three symptoms plaguing Australians due to an incompatibility with a food.

FoodFit customers who eliminated incompatible foods experienced, on average, a 72 per cent reduction in bloating in the third week, an 80 per cent drop in brain fog in four weeks, a 60 per cent reduction in fatigue in the frst week and an 80 per cent reduction in the fourth week, a 60 per cent reduction in sinus symptoms, hayfever and

headaches within just four weeks.

The fndings from FoodFit’s aggregated client data of show that even subtle dietary reactions can have a massive impact on how we feel day-to-day. Participants also reported large improvements in behavioural symptoms (80%) and digestive concerns such as diarrhoea (80%) and constipation (60%) over the same period.

Dennis Hodges, founder and CEO of FoodFit, says the results show how quickly the body can reset when trigger foods are removed. “Many people resign themselves to live not feeling their best. They accept bloating after lunch, afternoon

fatigue or a foggy head as normal, many attributing it to just getting older or being busy,” says Dennis. “Our data proves that by identifying and removing just a handful of incompatible foods, people can dramatically improve how they feel within weeks.”

In FoodFit’s recent analyses of 2856 symptomatic Australians, four in fve (85%) were incompatible with basic supermarket foods. The top fve biggest ofenders were full cream milk (95.5%), white bread (95.2%), wholemeal bread (94.9%), multigrain bread (94.8%) and skim milk (93.8%).

Even A2 milk, pasta and cow’s milk cheese were fagged in more than 84

per cent of cases. Other common triggering foods are onion and garlic, cashews, tomato, corn products such as tortillas, strawberries and pineapple. FoodFit’s program uses a simple at-home test to measure the body’s compatibility with over 500 foods and additives, creating a personalised report that identifes potential triggers.

Participants then follow a guided elimination plan to help the body recover, reduce infammation, and restore energy.

Top tips from FoodFit for feeling your best this summer:

1.Do something: If you experience unexplained symptoms, get a food compatibility test.

2.Tune in: Listen to your body, notice how you feel after meals and pay attention to patterns.

3.Go back to basics: Simplify your meals, avoid hidden additives.

4.Hydrate often: Drink at least two litres per day. Water helps your body fush out irritants.

5.Give it time: It takes around four weeks to feel the full benefts of removing trigger foods. “It’s not about cutting out whole food groups, following restrictive or fad diets. It’s about fnding what works for your individual body, once you do, you’ll notice the diference fast and be ready for a summer full of energy and feeling the best version of yourself.”

Government funds new first-line treatment for deadly blood cancer

In a major breakthrough for Australians living with multiple myeloma, the Federal Government has announced new funding for DARZALEX® (daratumumab) — the frst immune-based medicine to be made available as a front-line treatment for this deadly blood cancer.

The announcement by the Federal Minister for Health, Disability and Ageing means Australians newly diagnosed with multiple myeloma who are ineligible for stem cell transplantation can now access

DARZALEX through the Pharmaceutical

Benefts Scheme (PBS)

The therapy will be ofered in combination with lenalidomide and dexamethasone (DRd), dramatically reducing costs for patients.

Without PBS funding, treatment would cost around $150,000 in the frst year and $84,000 each subsequent year. Eligible patients will now pay just $7.70 (concession) or $31.60 (general) per month — dropping to $25 per month from January 2026.

A milestone for patients and doctors

Professor Hang Quach, Head of Clinical Haematology at St Vincent’s

Hospital Melbourne, welcomed the new subsidy, calling it a “lifesaving milestone” for Australians facing this incurable disease.

“We now have a new frst-line treatment option for the majority of patients diagnosed with multiple myeloma,” she said. “For these patients, survival rates have not improved in more than a decade — this could not have come soon enough.”

Multiple myeloma afects plasma cells in the bone marrow, leading to weakened immunity, bone damage, and pain. Each year, more than 2,600

Australians are diagnosed, and about 1,100 lives are lost to the disease.

How DARZALEX works

DARZALEX is an immunotherapy designed to activate the body’s own immune system to target and destroy myeloma cells. It binds to a signalling molecule (CD38) on the cell surface, prompting immune cells to attack.

“This treatment works best at the start of a patient’s cancer journey, when their immune system is strongest,” said Professor Quach. “It’s vital that we get initial therapy right because the disease becomes harder

to treat after each relapse.”

A win for the myeloma community

Mark Henderson, CEO of Myeloma Australia, said the community had been advocating for years for access to this treatment.

“This is fantastic news for future myeloma patients and their families,” he said.

“Having DARZALEX funded as a front-line therapy means patients can begin their journey with one of the most advanced options available.”

Joana De Castro, Managing Director of Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine ANZ, said the new PBS listing

brings Australia in line with other countries ofering the same level of care.

“This milestone refects the tireless eforts of Myeloma Australia, the Leukaemia Foundation, and medical experts who fought for this access,” she said.

DARZALEX is available as an infusion or subcutaneous injection and has been previously approved for patients whose disease progressed after initial therapy.

The listing marks the frst new class of medicine in 12 years for this patient group — and ofers renewed hope for thousands of Australians.

BOWEN THERAPY

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Southwestern China

Jef Gibbs

Top Destinations, Budget Tips & Best Accommodation

Southwestern China is a land of breathtaking contrasts—snow-capped mountains, emerald rice terraces, ancient villages, and vibrant minority cultures. Stretching across provinces like Yunnan, Sichuan, Guizhou, and Tibet, the region is a feast for adventurers, photographers, and those seeking authentic cultural encounters. Here, travellers can sip tea in a Chengdu teahouse, wander through mystical Lijiang’s old town, or hike among clouds in the Himalayas. This journey through China’s wild southwest promises discovery, diversity, and deep connection with nature and tradition.

Top 5 Places to Visit

1. Chengdu (Sichuan Province) – Home of spicy Sichuan cuisine and the world-famous Giant Panda Research Base, Chengdu is both laid-back and full of life. Stroll along Jinli Ancient Street, savour hotpot, and join locals in People’s Park for tea and mahjong.

2. Lijiang (Yunnan Province) – This UNESCO World Heritage town charms with cobbled lanes, red lanterns, and Naxi minority music. Nearby Jade Dragon Snow Mountain ofers incredible hiking and cable car views over the valley.

3. Dali (Yunnan Province) – Nestled between Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake, Dali’s mix of Bai architecture, ancient

temples, and lakeside cafes makes it a perfect escape for relaxation and exploration.

4. Guiyang (Guizhou Province) – A rising star for ecotourism, Guiyang is surrounded by karst mountains, waterfalls, and ethnic villages. Visit Huangguoshu Waterfall—the largest in Asia—and the Miao and Dong minority towns for local festivals.

5. Lhasa (Tibet Autonomous Region) – Sacred and spiritual, Lhasa is the heart of Tibetan Buddhism. The Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street create a sense of awe and peace unmatched anywhere else in China.

Top 5 Deals & How to Save Money

Local Flights & Rail: Book early through Chinese travel apps for discounted regional fights or high-speed trains between Chengdu, Kunming, and Guiyang. Guesthouses: Familyrun minsu (homestays) ofer afordable lodging and cultural immersion.

Local Buses: Public and shared minibuses are the

cheapest way to access remote sites.

Group Tours: For Tibet, join authorised group tours to cut permit and guide costs.

Eat Local: Choose street stalls or small noodle houses—authentic meals from ¥15–¥25.

5 Essential Travel Tips

Permits for Tibet: Independent travel in Tibet is restricted— arrange tours with registered agencies.

Altitude Awareness: Areas like Shangri-La and Lhasa require gradual acclimatisation.

Language Help: Download translation apps—many locals speak dialects or minority languages.

Weather Gear: Southwestern climates vary—pack for both humidity and high-altitude cold.

Respect Local Customs: Ask before photographing people or religious sites, and observe temple etiquette. Best Ways to Get Around

Southwestern China combines efcient high-speed rail with

spectacular scenic routes. Chengdu to Kunming is an easy train trip through lush valleys. Within cities, metro systems (Chengdu, Kunming) and buses are reliable. In rural areas, scooter rentals , shared taxis , or local guides are essential for reaching hidden spots. For Tibet, pre-booked tour vehicles handle long, rugged journeys safely.

Conclusion

Travelling through Southwestern China is an immersion into natural wonder and cultural soul. From sipping tea in Chengdu to breathing the thin, sacred air of Lhasa, each destination invites you to slow down and feel the heartbeat of the land. With open roads, kind people, and endless horizons, the southwest remains one of China’s most unforgettable journeys.

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 St. Regis Lhasa Resort, InterContinental Kunming – refned luxury with mountain or lake views.

• Mid-range (4★): Chengdu Tibet Hotel, Dali Mountain Retreat – stylish comfort and great locations.

• Budget (2–3★): Lijiang Old Town Youth Hostel, Lazybones Hostel Chengdu – social, afordable, and full of charm.

Currency & Budget Considerations

The currency is Renminbi (RMB or Yuan, ¥)

• Luxury: ¥1,800–2,500/day – top hotels, private drivers, fne dining.

• Mid-range: ¥700–1,200/day – 3–4★ hotels, domestic fights, guided day tours.

• Budget: ¥300–600/day – guesthouses, local eateries, public transport.

WHATS ON THE MENU TONIGHT?

Ah, the Chicken Parmigiana — Australia’s national comfort food and the only thing that can fx a broken heart faster than a text from your ex. But now? It’s been reborn. Reinvented. Rolled into a rissole and ready to ruin your self-control. Yes, folks — Chicken Parmigiana Rissoles have entered the chat, and they’re looking downright seductive. These little golden minxes are everything you love about a pub parmy, minus the judgmental stares when you lick the plate. Crispy outside, juicy inside, and oozing with mozzarella like they’ve got something to prove. Each bite whispers, “You deserve better, babe — and more sauce.”

Ingredients

• 500g chicken mince (the protein equivalent of a Tinder swipe-right)

• 1 egg (beaten senseless, much like your self-discipline)

• 1/2; cup breadcrumbs (for crunch and credibility)

• 1 garlic clove, crushed seductively

• 2 tbsp grated parmesan (because you’re worth it)

• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (fake an accent while you add them)

• 2 tbsp tomato paste (the lipstick of the cooking world)

• 1 cup grated mozzarella (the stretchier, the flthier)

• Salt and pepper, to taste — and to season your regrets

• Olive oil, for frying and pretending you’re classy Method

• Combine chicken mince, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, parmesan, herbs, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix it like you’re kneading out all your life’s frustrations — tenderly, but with intent.

• Roll into plump little rissoles. Hide a cube of mozzarella inside each one. This is your secret weapon — like lingerie under a business suit.

• Heat oil in a pan and fry until golden, sizzling, and slightly smug.

Chicken Parmigiana Rissoles

– When Dinner Gets Saucy and Starts Flirting With You

(Rated PG-13 because the cheese pull alone should come with a warning label)

• Pour over a sexy splash of tomato passata and let it bubble. Sprinkle more mozzarella on top and grill until it melts like your last shred of willpower.

MTips for Success

•Serve with chips and salad if you’re pretending to be balanced.

•Use fresh mozzarella for maximum cheese pull — it’s like edible romance.

•Leftovers reheat beautifully, but who are we kidding? There won’t be any.

These Chicken Parmigiana Rissoles are what happens when your favourite pub meal goes home with you after a few wines and never leaves. Delicious, shameless, and guaranteed to make you moan in public.

eet the Meringues with Honeyed Grapes — the dessert equivalent of a soap opera: light, dramatic, and way too sweet to trust. It’s all fuf and gloss on top, but underneath? Oozing golden honey and grapes so shiny they could get their own OnlyFans page. This is a treat for when you want to impress people without actually doing much — the meringues do all the work, the honey takes the credit, and you just stand there pretending you planned it that way.

Ingredients

• 2 egg whites (room temperature, not emotionally stable)

• 1/2; cup caster sugar

• 1 tsp white vinegar (for stability — unlike you on a Friday)

• 200g seedless grapes

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1 tsp butter

• Optional: a dollop of cream or Greek yoghurt to cool the passion

Method

• Preheat oven to 120°C. Beat egg whites until they form stif peaks — think whipped cream with attitude. Gradually add sugar, then vinegar, until glossy and smug.

• Spoon meringue blobs onto a tray and bake for 1 hour until crisp but still soft inside (like your heart).

• In a pan, melt butter and honey, then toss in grapes until they glisten like forbidden jewels.

• Serve grapes over meringues and watch your guests melt faster than the butter.

Result: Sticky, glossy, and scandalously good — a dessert that seduces frst and apologises never.

2026 Toyota HiLux Pricing and Specifcations Revealed

Jef Gibbs

Toyota Australia has ofcially released full pricing and specifcation details for the 2026 Toyota HiLux, ahead of its December 2025 arrival in local showrooms. The new model brings a bold exterior refresh, a completely redesigned interior, upgraded technology, and enhanced safety systems — all aimed at cementing the HiLux’s long-held reputation as one of Australia’s toughest and most popular utes.

Powertrain and Performance

The 2026 HiLux range is powered exclusively by Toyota’s 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine (1GD-FTV), producing 150kW of power and up to 500Nm of torque (420Nm in manual variants). Buyers can choose between a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission, depending on the model grade.

In a signifcant mechanical update, select variants now include Toyota’s 48volt mild-hybrid system, combining an 8.5kW/65Nm electric motor generator with a DC/DC converter This technology improves fuel efciency, smoothens stop-start operation, and enhances throttle response during take-of — an important step toward future electrifcation.

Toyota has discontinued the 2.7-litre petrol and 2.4-litre diesel options, streamlining the lineup around the proven 2.8-litre powertrain for greater performance and reduced emissions.

Exterior and Interior

Redesign

Visually, the 2026 HiLux receives a major exterior facelift, with a tougher stance, reshaped front bumper and grille, new LED lighting elements, and updated rear styling. The result is a more aggressive, modern look that retains the model’s durable, work-ready aesthetic.

Inside, Toyota has given the HiLux a completely new interior layout. The cabin now features premium materials, improved ergonomics, and cutting-edge infotainment technology, highlighted by a 12.3-inch touchscreen across all grades. This new system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus connected satellite navigation with live services

(complimentary for the frst 12 months).

Model Range and Features

The 2026 Toyota HiLux lineup continues with familiar model names — WorkMate, SR, SR5, Rogue, and the returning Rugged X — but each now includes a stronger suite of standard features.

WorkMate

Entry-level WorkMate models ofer surprising value with:

l 17-inch steel wheels

l Dusk-sensing LED headlights

l Body-coloured front bumper and grille

l Fabric upholstery and urethane steering wheel

l Manual air-conditioning

l 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen

l 7.0-inch digital driver display

l Wireless smartphone connectivity

l AM/FM/DAB+ digital radio, USB-C ports

l Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)

l Adaptive Cruise Control and

Lane Guidance

l Blind-Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Trafc Alert

l Reversing camera and Speed Sign Assist

Building on the WorkMate, the SR adds:

l 17-inch alloy wheels

l LED front fog lights

l Black exterior accents

l Locking rear tailgate and side steps

l Keyless entry and push-button start

l Leather-accented steering wheel and shift knob

l Rear air vents and 300W inverter

l Upgraded eight-speaker audio system

l Of-road features (4x4): locking rear diferential, hill descent control, multi-terrain select

SR5

Stepping up to the SR5 brings both luxury and capability:

l 18-inch alloy wheels and ventilated rear disc brakes

l Sports bar, privacy glass, and

LED tail-lights

l Heated and auto-folding mirrors

l Dual-zone automatic climate control

l Heated front seats and steering wheel

l 12.3-inch digital driver’s display

l 360-degree camera system

l Cooled glovebox and electric parking brake

An optional Leather Package ($2500) adds leather seats, an electric driver’s seat with lumbar support, and a premium nine-speaker JBL audio system

Rogue

The range-topping Rogue model focuses on luxury and utility with:

l Matte black 18-inch alloys and exclusive bumpers

l Unique sports bar and deck rail system

l Electric roller cover and marine-grade bed liner

l Central locking tailgate and 12V tub socket

l Full towing package with trailer wiring harness and electronic brake controller Rugged X

Making a strong return, the Rugged X caters to of-road enthusiasts with:

l Genuine hoopless bullbar

l Front and rear recovery points

l LED light bar and decal package

l Heavy-duty sports bar

l Factory towing package and tub liner

Colour Options

The 2026 HiLux adds two striking new colours — Ash Slate and Sunglow — alongside Glacier White, Frosted White, Stunning Silver, Eclipse Black, and Feverish Red. Premium paint options cost $675

Pricing (Before On-Road Costs) l

l 4×4 SR5 double cab pick-up 48V auto – $65,990

l 4×4 Rogue or Rugged X double cab pick-up 48V auto – $71,990

Final Word

The 2026 Toyota HiLux doesn’t reinvent the wheel — but it refnes nearly every aspect of it. With more tech, comfort, and capability than ever before, this latest upgrade strengthens Toyota’s position in Australia’s fercely competitive ute market. Whether used for work, play, or family life, the HiLux remains the dependable allrounder it has always been — now smarter, safer, and more connected than ever.

The 2026 Toyota HiLux range ofcially arrives at Toyota dealerships nationwide from December 2025

Real Estate Boom or Bubble? What’s Driving Australia’s Surging Property Market

Jef Gibbs

Australia’s property market is heating up once again, with a surge in new listings, rising home values, and shifting migration patterns reshaping demand from capital cities to regional areas like the Northern Rivers. While experts say the market is entering a more stable growth phase, momentum remains strong as buyers and sellers adjust to evolving economic conditions. Listings surge as sellers cash in

In one of the biggest spikes since the pandemic, new property listings rose 22% nationally in October, with Sydney and Melbourne seeing increases of 20% and 30% respectively. The surge refects confdence among homeowners looking to take advantage of recent price gains and renewed buyer interest.

Many sellers, particularly in regional and coastal areas, are

seeking to lock in profts after years of strong growth. At the same time, a wave of frst-home buyers and upgraders are entering the market, encouraged by stable interest rates and government support schemes.

Home values rising across the board

According to national housing data, Australian home values climbed 1.1% in October, the fastest monthly rise since mid-2023. Annual growth is now at 6.1%, with middle and lowertier homes leading the gains. Analysts credit strong demand, low stock levels, and targeted buyer incentives such as the 5% deposit guarantee scheme for fuelling the upturn.

Despite higher living costs, many buyers remain active, drawn by the prospect of limited future supply. Experts say if listing levels remain elevated, price growth could stabilise heading

into 2026 — but for now, competition remains ferce.

Migration reshaping the market

A signifcant trend driving current shifts is urban migration Sydney has reportedly lost more than 100,000 residents in the past year to internal migration, as people relocate to more afordable and lifestylerich regions. This ongoing population movement is

fuelling growth in regional markets like the Northern Rivers, where demand for family homes, acreage, and coastal properties remains high.

Buyers from Sydney and Brisbane continue to see Northern NSW as ofering better value, cleaner air, and stronger community connections — with infrastructure upgrades and remote work options making regional living even more appealing.

Opportunities and challenges ahead

For sellers, the current conditions present a prime opportunity to list while buyer confdence remains strong and interest rates stay relatively steady.

For buyers, the challenge is navigating tight supply and rising competition, particularly for move-inready homes in desirable lifestyle areas.

In the Northern Rivers, agents report steady interest from both local and interstate buyers, particularly around Byron Bay, Ballina, Lennox Head, and Lismore. As

more people trade city life for the coast and hinterland, regional demand is expected to remain resilient well into 2026.

The outlook: steady but shifting Market experts say Australia’s property sector is moving into a new rhythm — one of steady but sustainable growth rather than boom-and-bust cycles.

Key factors to watch include:

l Interest rate movements and future Reserve Bank decisions

l Housing supply levels, especially new builds

l Migration trends between cities and regions

l Government incentives that support frst-home buyers and green housing initiatives

For the Northern Rivers, this means a continued rise in demand for quality homes, balanced by a need for more afordable housing and rental availability.

Rental Pressure and Housing Supply Crunch Continue Across Australia

Jef Gibbs

Australia’s rental market remains under intense pressure as rents continue to soar and housing supply struggles to keep up with population growth and record demand. With vacancy rates near historic lows and new home construction lagging, renters across the country — including those in the Northern Rivers — are feeling the squeeze.

Rising rents hit record highs

Recent data from property research frms shows that national

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

rental prices have increased by more than 9% over the past year, with double-digit growth recorded in major cities and regional centres. The combination of high interest rates, reduced building approvals, and strong migration has created a perfect storm for renters.

In New South Wales, weekly rents for houses are averaging more than $750 in Sydney, while regional areas like the Northern Rivers are seeing similar upward trends, particularly in coastal towns such as Byron Bay, Ballina, and Lennox Head, where lifestyle demand remains strong.

Supply shortages fuelling the problem

Housing construction

has not kept pace with population growth.

Building approvals are down almost 20% yearon-year, with developers citing increased costs, labour shortages, and slow planning approvals as major barriers.

This imbalance between supply and demand means that even as interest rates stabilise, there simply aren’t enough homes available for rent or purchase. The pressure is pushing families and young renters out of metropolitan areas and into regional towns — which are now struggling to absorb the infux.

In the Northern Rivers region, local agents say rental competition remains ferce, with dozens of applicants for each available property. Afordable housing initiatives are underway, but experts warn that

meaningful relief will take years to deliver.

Policy and investment challenges

The Federal Government has rolled out a series of measures aimed at boosting housing supply, including the National Housing Accord and incentives for build-torent projects. However, industry analysts say progress is slow, and approvals for new developments remain well below what’s needed to meet demand.

With population growth forecast to remain strong into 2026 and limited housing completions on the horizon, the rental crisis is expected to persist well into next year unless construction activity accelerates signifcantly.

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

Market Overview

A total of 1,317 head of prime cattle were yarded at the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange (NRLX) on Wednesday, 12 November 2025. The sale saw a solid yarding of mixedquality cattle, with restocker and processor competition described as frm to slightly dearer in most categories.

The total yarding weighed 417,550kg for a combined gross of $1,654,863.40, averaging 396.3c/kg across all categories.

Numbers were steady on last week, with the highlight being strong restocker demand for steers and heifers, while cows and bulls maintained frm values on quality lines.

Category Breakdown

• Steers: 365 head

Averaged 474.1c/kg , topping at 588.2c/ kg, or $2,675.07/head

Market driven by restockers and feeders competing keenly for lighter and medium weights.

• Heifers: 438 head

Averaged 376.7c/kg , reaching a top of 460.0c/kg , or $2,166.75/head

Feedlot and trade buyers were active

on the better-fnished drafts.

• Cows: 362 head

Averaged 366.0c/kg , topping at 426.2c/ kg, or $3,059.16/head

Heavy cows to processors sold strongly, with leaner types meeting solid demand.

• Bulls: 50 head

Averaged 382.8c/kg , topping at 414.2c/ kg, or $4,245.55/head

Heavy bulls sold to a frm market with good competition.

• Bullocks: 19 head

Averaged 434.0c/kg , reaching 470.2c/ kg, or $3,216.21/head

Prices were slightly improved for quality heavy bullocks.

• Vealer Bulls: 70 head

• Heifers averaged a strong 421.1c/ kg, with tops of 461.2c/kg, making $2,006.42 to $3,376.48

• Manufacturing steers averaged and topped at 412.2c/kg, returning $2,109.09

The region’s livestock markets delivered a mixed performance this week, with cattle numbers lifting while sheep and lamb yardings eased. Pork and poultry entries were also lighter than expected, though prices across most categories remained frm on quality lines.

A total of 1,495 cattle were yarded alongside 1,297 sheep and lambs, with markets fuctuating depending on weight, fnish, and buyer demand.

CATTLE MARKET

Overall cattle trends were positive, with several categories achieving strong bids from processors, feedlots and restockers.

Prime Catle Highlights

• Bulls averaged 377.5c/kg, topping at 436.2c/kg, returning $2,253.24 to $4,484.48

• Cows averaged 377.5c/kg and reached 423.2c/kg, returning $2,065.55 to $4,040.00

• Feeder heifers averaged 379.3c/kg, selling to 440c/kg, or $1,195.95 to $1,771.00

• Feeder steers were well sought after, averaging 478.3c/kg and topping 538.2c/kg, returning $1,826.81 to $2,598.75

• Steers averaged 449.5c/kg, topping 487.2c/kg, returning $2,668.32 to $3,406.50

• Vealer heifers averaged 405.6c/kg, reaching 476.2c/kg, returning $861.06 to $1,150.30

• Vealer steers averaged 478.7c/kg, selling to 540.2c/kg, returning $997.47 to $1,271.65

• Yearling heifers averaged 393.7c/kg, selling to 454.2c/kg, returning $946.50 to $1,370.82

• Yearling steers averaged 498.7c/kg, topping 538.2c/kg, returning $1,340.28 to $2,703.38

The overall cattle sale averaged $1,717.65/head across the 1,495 head ofered.

SHEEP & LAMB MARKET

Numbers eased this week, but prices remained mostly frm for export-weight lambs, butchers’ lines and processing stock. Restocker competition was active on suitable lighter lots.

Sheep & Lamb Results

• Lambs topped at $287, averaging $209.07 (down $4).

• Hoggets topped at $220, averaging $177.16 (up $12).

• Ram lambs topped $191, averaging $135.25 (down $23).

• Ewes topped $164, averaging $122.21 (down $28).

• Wethers topped $177, averaging $138.95 (up $2).

• Rams topped $188, averaging $153.38 (down $15).

Total yarding averaged $177.92/ head, down $12/head on last week.

PIGS

Pig numbers were limited, with most stock falling into lighter categories.

•Boars sold to $76

•Sows made $370–$430

•Light pork ranged $180–$274

•Stores sold from $74–$268

POULTRY

Poultry numbers remained consistent with the following results:

•Muscovy ducks sold to $50

•Hens to $75

•Roosters to $27.50

•Peking ducks to $38

•Goslings to $50

APL / McDOUGALLS SHEEP & LAMB REPORT

Agents and vendors presented 1,297 head, with a sizeable proportion in the lighter categories. While the average was softer overall, fresh lighter lambs and processing weights sold dearer. Heavy export lambs were limited but achieved strong returns.

Lamb & Sheep Summary

• Lambs: topped $287, averaged $209.07 (–$4)

Averaged 427.9c/kg , topping 524.2c/ kg , or $1,515.58/head

The top end saw strong restocker demand, especially for well-bred lines.

• Bobby Calves: 9 head

Averaged 120.0c/kg , or $828/head

• Vealers: 4 head

Averaged 250.2c/kg , or $569/head

Market Summary

Overall, the sale refected renewed confdence following scattered rainfall in surrounding districts. Demand for young cattle suitable for restocking and feedlot entry remained the driving force, while prime slaughter types continued to sell on par with recent weeks.

• Hoggets: topped $220, averaged $177.16 (+$12)

• Ram lambs: topped $191, averaged $135.25 (–$23)

• Ewes: topped $164, averaged $122.21 (–$28)

• Wethers: topped $177, averaged $138.95 (+$2)

Total yarding averaged $177.92/head, down $12 on the previous week.

Notable Sales

• Rex & Roz Lipp: Dorper lambs 54kg to Thomas Foods for $275; hoggets to Grants Quality Meats for $220

• Phil & Gabe Byrnes: Dorper lambs 54.2kg to Thomas Foods for $287; 51.3kg to Leslie Lamb for $276

• Tim & Mary Turvey: Aussie White lambs 52.1kg to GR Prime $250; 47kg to Jock Young Meats for $236

• HLH Trading: Dorper lambs 51.4kg to Thomas Foods for $250; 45.6kg to GR Prime for $206; hoggets 55.7kg to McIntyre Meats for $210; 48kg to Shelley F/T for $169

• Caitlin Ole: Dorper sucker lambs 49kg to Leslie Lamb for $244

• Jim Cooper: Dorper lambs 44.3kg to McMahon Bros for $234; lighter lines 22–36kg to restockers for $56–$169; Ewes to Thomas Foods $146 and restockers $130

• Sharon & Niel Diery: Dorper lambs 44kg to McMahon Bros for $227; hoggets 60kg to Grants Quality Meats for $220

• Rothman F/T: Dorper lambs 43.6kg to Shelley F/T for $230

Farmers and families urged to stay safe on quad bikes

By Ian Rogers

The ACCC has launched a new quad bike safety awareness campaign across regional Australia, highlighting the ongoing dangers for farmers, families, and children. Statistics show that older male farmers remain the group most at risk , while children also face signifcant dangers when riding or being passengers on quad bikes.

Fatality and injury concerns

SafeWork Australia reports that rollovers and collisions are the leading causes of quad bike deaths. Since 2011, 234 Australians have lost their lives in quad bike incidents — more than 80 per cent were men. Alarmingly, children under 14 represent over one in ten fatalities, and those under 16 make up

more than a quarter of all emergency department presentations related to quad bike injuries.

Safety message from the ACCC

ACCC Deputy Chair Mick Keogh urged families to remember three golden safety rules:

l Always wear a helmet

l Fit rollover protection

l Never allow children to ride adult-sized quad bikes

Mr Keogh encouraged anyone using older quad bikes to retrofit safety equipment.

“The cost is minimal compared to the cost of serious injury or a fatality,” he said.

“These simple steps can save lives,” Mr Keogh said. “Use these safety tips to protect your loved ones and family members.”

Standards and safety equipment

The Consumer Goods (Quad Bikes) Safety Standard was introduced

to improve stability, require rollover protection, and ensure clear safety warnings on new and imported quad bikes. While many newer bikes now meet these requirements, hundreds of thousands of older models remain in use without proper rollover protection.

Peak bodies reject claims of ‘irresponsible’ land clearing

Ian Rogers

Australia’s peak farming and forestry bodies have united to challenge what they say are misleading claims about land clearing and so-called loopholes in environmental law. Their response follows comments made this week by Australian Climate and Biodiversity Foundation chair Dr Ken Henry, who alleged “irresponsible clearing” was occurring nationally and that proposed EPBC Act reforms would fail to address a deforestation loophole.

The Australian Forest Products Association (AFPA) and the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) said the allegations misrepresented how Australia’s forestry and agricultural sectors operate, stressing that both industries adhere to strict sustainability and

environmental standards. AFPA Chief Executive Ofcer Diana Hallam said Australia’s forestry operations were not contributing to deforestation, emphasising that all harvested trees are replaced under stringent management frameworks. She also rejected

suggestions of loopholes in current or proposed EPBC legislation.

Hallam pointed to last year’s Federal Court confrmation that Regional Forest Agreements (RFAs) are a legitimate mechanism for meeting environmental obligations under the EPBC Act. These agreements, she

said, allocate environmental oversight between the Commonwealth and states, ensuring continued protection of matters of national environmental signifcance.

“Entry into an RFA does not create a regulatory void,” Hallam said.

“Australia’s forest

industries operate under robust and transparent management systems that ensure environmental safeguards are upheld.”

NFF General Manager of Natural Resource Management Warwick Ragg echoed those concerns, saying Australian farmers do not engage in deforestation. He noted that native forest management, woody weed control and regrowth management were essential land stewardship practices — not deforestation.

Ragg described Dr Henry’s comments as “disappointing and irresponsible,” arguing they undermine the genuine environmental credentials of farmers working to maintain healthy landscapes.

“There is no deforestation loophole,” he said. “The EPBC Act has never regulated clearing, and the current reform proposals

strengthen assessment processes by addressing clearing and threatened species concurrently under bilateral agreements.”

Dr Henry’s remarks also appear inconsistent with global scientifc guidance. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has stated that sustainable forest management — which maintains or increases forest carbon stocks while supporting ongoing timber production — delivers the strongest long-term climate mitigation benefts.

Environmental groups have also pushed back on the deforestation narrative. The Australian Conservation Foundation recently acknowledged that the majority of Australia’s 40,000 beef producers are operating “deforestation free,” underscoring the sector’s commitment to sustainable land management.

PYERS FAMILY

By Helen Trustum

ROBERT PYERS

Robert Pyers was born at Seaham on the Williams River in the Hunter Region near Port Stephens on 1st August 1847 to Able and Margaret Pyers. In 1869 Robert married Miss Clara Taylor. They had 11 children: Abel, George, Robert, Joseph, Emma, Elizabeth, Annie, Clara, Victor, Laura and John. Soon after they moved to Grafton, it was here where he went into business with William Carrall, supplying timber for the Grafton Mills.

In 1880 Robert Pyers and his family along with his brother Abel, moved north to the Richmond and purchased property at Tatham near his good friend George Marsh. Here he employed 30 men cutting ironbark piles and girders for the Yarra Bank at €2/10/ – each as the timber business boomed. It was there at Tatham where a bridge was built after many years in 1986 on the Tatham / Ellangowan Road in honour of Robert Pyers. The Pyers Family moved to South Casino while their

new home at Irvington was being built. It was at this time well known shipbuilder Mr Lomax was commissioned to build a powerful steamer at Irvington. This craft he christened the “Emma Pyers” after his baby daughter. The steamer became one of the well – known steamers on the Richmond and Tweed Rivers.

A store, school and church were built at Irvington with

Robert Pyers assistance. However, with the food of 1887 which swept through their home at Irvington the family moved to” Summer Hill” (now Casino High School) and built a new home. Many of those trees still standing were planted by Robert Pyers. The price of timber had fallen and Robert Pyers entered the auctioneering business with his son George and daughter Emma, to become one of Casino’s leading citizens and later Alderman from 1884 to 1894.

Following the beginning of this new business there were long days spent in the saddle riding all over the district. He had a property at Sandy Creek where as many as 600 head of cattle were fattened.

In 1894 Robert Pyers was elected to represent the Richmond District in the Legislative Assembly. This area stretched up as

far as the Tablelands. It was here that his great life’s work for the district was accomplished. Through his eforts that the railway from Lismore to Casino was built, the bridge over the Clarence at Tabulam and the bridge over the South Arm at Coraki were built. In fact, 20 bridges were built in the district while he was in ofce till 1904. The crossing place at Tabulam over the Clarence River had been serviced by a punt prior to the new construction. The huge foods of the early 1890’s saw the river rise to 42 feet in height at Tabulam which led to an immediate construction of a high-level bridge. Now in 2025 Tabulam boasts a new bridge taking the place of the timber structure, one that will last for years.

The structure, known as the Glebe Bridge at Coraki, was ofcially opened to the public on the 15th of April 1905.

The Glebe Bridge was a virtual clone of one further south on the Clarence River at Maclean, called

the MacFarlane Bridge. Both the Glebe Bridge and MacFarlane Bridge were groundbreaking, using two counterweights that rolled down a curved track to open the lift span.

In 1890 a total of 7,000 people turned out to see the Premier Sir William Lyne turn the frst sod for the railway line from Casino to Lismore and the Pyers Family entertained the 80 members and special guests at their “Summer Hill” home.

Casino and District should be very proud to have played a big part in Robert Pyers life. His name will live on for ever.

Robert Pyers died on 19thOctober 1915, as the result of an accident, aged 68 years. He is buried in the West Street Cemetery, Casino along with his wife, Clara, who died 15th July 1919.

Emma Pyers

Emma was Robert and

Clara’s frst daughter born of 11 children: Abel, George, Robert, Joseph, Emma, Elizabeth, Annie, Clara, Victor, Laura and John.

Emma was born to succeed her father in

Robert Pyers Auction Room in Casino

Robert Pyers

Auction Sales for Robert Pyers in 1894

Old Wooden Bridge - Tabulam

Emma Pyers

Pyers Bridge Tatham-Ellangowan Road

business. Emma became the frst licensed lady auctioneer in Casino and second in the state. Her auction rooms were next door to the old Exchange Hotel (Later a Boarding House). Their saleyards at the time were on the south side of the Oxford Hotel. Emma also conducted pig sales at the Bentley Railway Station. Farmers would drive their pigs down to the station. After the auction, the pigs would be loaded on to the train bound for Sydney. For many years this practice took place then Emma decided to go from farm to farm to buy the pigs direct from the farmers. Emma would travel around in a buggy.

Emma Pyers was a very

keen businesswoman, many people have said, that on sale days in Casino she would be waiting at the Irving Bridge to get the livestock business from the farmers.

Emma, along with all the family were great supporters of the Casino Show where they would enter in every section. Along with their horses, cattle, pigs, poultry and dog and exhibits in the pavilion. Must have been a busy time for them. For many years Emma was an avid worker for the Casino Memorial Hospital. After the deaths of her father Robert and her brother George, Emma continued the auctioneering business. She would auction

pigs, poultry, fruit and vegetables.

Emma died 26th August 1946 aged 66 and is buried in the West Street Cemetery, Casino.

Annie Pyers

Annie was the third daughter born to Robert and Clara Pyers. She married livestock Auctioneer Pete Lawson. Pete worked for J. B. McDougall when he frst commenced Auctioneering in Casino in 1910. Mr Lawson joined forces with Cecil Anderson and operated fortnightly sales in yards on Runnymede Station. His ofce was in the School of Arts building before it burnt down in the early 1930’s. The business then moved two doors

from where the Westpac Bank is now in Walker Street.

Mr Lawson was renowned for singing and performed at many local functions. He was often invited to sell for Norman Johnston at his special sales in Bonalbo. The night before the sale at Bonalbo, Mr Lawson would exercise his voice by singing. He would sing for about two hours.

Annie died 12th April 1960 at the age of 76 years. She is buried in the West Street Cemetery, Casino.

Abel died 10/7/1957 aged 86 years, George died 5/9/1921 aged 49 years, Robert Jnr. died 22/9/1904 aged 29 years, Joseph died 27/1/1879 aged 2 years,

Victor died 25/2/1888 and John died 5/8/1898 aged 7 years. All buried in the West Street Cemetery, Casino except Joseph who is buried in Grafton.

Ref: Richmond Manyweathers –27/2/1985: Lance Nicholls, St Michael’s Nursing Home – 19/3/1989: Fraser

Ramsey – November 2000: Halden Boyd –30/11/2020 for Northern River Times: West Street Cemetery Book compiled Casino & District Family History Group: Vaughan McDonald, Lisa Caban and Kim Anderson from Richmond Valley Council.

Pyers home at Irvington

Glebe Bridge - Coraki

Pyers Family headstone in West Street Cemetery, Casino

Plan to protect livestock and pets this bushfire season

Ian Rogers

With the summer fre season fast approaching, Local Land Services (LLS) is urging farmers and animal owners across the Northern Rivers to ensure their livestock and pets are included in bushfre preparedness plans

“Having a clear and practical plan in place for your animals is just as important as planning for yourself and your family,” said Piers Harper, Principal Program Manager for Emergency Services at Local Land Services.

“When disaster strikes, being organised can make all the diference. The best time to plan is now, before a fre is anywhere near your property.”

Preparing your property and livestock

Mr Harper said that planning should start with identifying a trigger point — a clear sign or condition that tells you when to act.

“Whether you evacuate or shelter in place, you need to know how you’ll move, house and care for your animals,” he said. “Don’t assume you’ll be able to rely on commercial carriers or reach an animal safe place. A self-sufcient plan is

essential.”

In situations where evacuation is not possible, LLS recommends setting up a safe stock containment area. Suitable options include:

l A heavily grazed paddock or a ploughed area with minimal vegetation.

l A large, clear stockyard with secure fencing.

l Areas with easy access to water and feed

“The key is that it’s away from fre-prone vegetation,”

Mr Harper said. “It also needs multiple access points so you can quickly move livestock when the fre risk increases.”

Animal emergency kits and identifcation

LLS is also encouraging property owners to prepare an animal emergency kit containing:

l A frst aid kit and essential

medications

l Five days’ supply of food and water

l Halter ropes, leads and transport gear

l Identifcation records, including microchip and NLIS tag details

“Keeping your animals’ vaccinations, microchips, ID tags and National Livestock Identifcation System details up to date greatly improves the chances of being reunited if they become separated during an emergency,” Mr Harper added.

Absentee landholders reminded to stay connected

Owners who don’t live on their rural properties are urged to visit regularly, make arrangements with local farm managers or neighbours, and stay in touch with community groups and emergency services

“Even simple actions — such as clearing fuel loads and maintaining water points — can make a big diference in protecting livestock and property,” Mr Harper said. For more information on preparing animals for bushfre season, contact Local Land Services on 1300 795 299 or visit www.nsw.gov.au/lls.

Rural Aid calls for urgent support as drought tightens its grip

Ian Rogers

As drought conditions deepen across South Australia, Western Victoria, and Southwest New South Wales, Rural Aid is making an urgent plea for Australians to rally behind farming families struggling to keep their livelihoods afoat this Christmas.

With South Australia recording some of its lowest rainfall on record and grain harvests forecast to be 40 per cent below the fveyear average, farmers are facing crippling shortages of livestock feed and water. Many are now at breaking point.

Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said the situation is dire, with many families forced to make heartbreaking choices.

“Farmers shouldn’t have to choose between feeding their livestock and feeding themselves,”

Mr Warlters said. “Every donation helps deliver hay for livestock, clean drinking water, fnancial assistance, and on-farm counselling.”

He said Rural Aid’s programs ofer practical and life-changing support, including:

l Hay deliveries for livestock feed

l Fresh, clean water for drinking and domestic use

l Financial aid to cover essential

household and farm expenses

l Community programs that keep rural towns connected l On-farm counselling from qualifed mental health professionals

For South Australian farmer Dale Hilda, a fourth-generation Merino sheep producer near Quorn, the ongoing drought has been devastating.

“Farming here is more than a lifestyle — it’s home,” Mr Hilda said. “We’ve had only 98 millimetres of rain this year. Feed is short and won’t last through summer. We’ll need to lighten our fock soon and just keep the breeders and lambs.”

He said Rural Aid’s assistance has been a lifeline. “The hay drop kept our sheep fed, and the counsellor visits lift our spirits. Knowing people are thinking of us has meant the world.”

This Christmas, Rural Aid is encouraging Australians to take part in its ‘Buy a Bale’ or ‘Fill a Tank’ campaign to help farming families in need.

“Every dollar makes a real diference,” Mr Warlters said. “If you can, please give hope to the farmers who provide our food and fbre this Christmas.”

To donate or learn more, visit www.buyabale.ruralaid.org.au.

Don’t forget livestock and pets in your farm fre plan

Eco-Friendly Pest Control Tips for Northern Rivers Gardens

Jef Gibbs

As warmer weather sets in, gardens across the Northern Rivers are bursting into bloom — and with that comes a wave of unwanted guests. From aphids to caterpillars and slugs, garden pests can quickly damage plants if left unchecked. Fortunately, local gardeners can keep

pests at bay using ecofriendly products and natural pest control methods that protect both plants and the environment.

Safe, efective options for a healthy garden

Neem oil – Derived from the seeds of the neem tree, this organic oil acts as both an insect repellent and a natural fungicide. It works best on soft-bodied insects like aphids, whitefies and mites, and breaks down quickly without harming benefcial insects when used carefully.

Insecticidal soap – A mix of natural fatty acids, this product works by disrupting pests’ protective layers. It’s efective against aphids,

spider mites and mealybugs, and can be safely used on most fruit and vegetable plants.

Diatomaceous earth – A powder made from fossilised algae, it’s a powerful deterrent for crawling insects such as slugs, snails and beetles. Sprinkle it around the base of plants to create a protective barrier.

Companion planting –Some plants naturally deter pests. Marigolds, basil, lavender, garlic and thyme can help repel harmful insects while attracting pollinators and benefcial bugs like ladybirds and lacewings.

Physical barriers –

Simple garden netting, fne mesh or recycled plastic collars around young plants can prevent insects from laying eggs and stop larger pests from feeding.

Prevention is key

Healthy gardens are more resilient to pests. Regularly remove weeds and debris, avoid overwatering, and rotate crops to reduce pest build-

up. Keep an eye out for early signs of infestation and act quickly with a gentle treatment before pests multiply.

When applying sprays or powders, always do so in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid harming bees and other pollinators.

Growing green in the Northern Rivers

The Northern Rivers’

unique climate supports a diverse range of insects and wildlife. Choosing eco-friendly pest control methods helps protect this biodiversity while keeping gardens thriving and productive. With a little planning and the right natural products, local gardeners can enjoy lush, pest-free gardens — sustainably and safely.

Neem oil

Insecticidal soap

Diatomaceous earth

Simple garden netting

People Product Partnerships

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, 10-14 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

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

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 ex-Service 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 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. For more information, please contact our President, Jeanette, on 0407 417 470

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

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)

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 10am1pm. 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

CWA Casino Day

Our end of year Street Stall will be at the front of D.I.Y. Hardware Saturday 29th November. We will also be selling tickets for our Christmas Ra le – 1st Prize $100 Coles voucher, 2nd Prize $60 Coles voucher 3rd and 4thPrize a home cooked Christmas cake or pudding. Tickets will be on sale at other locations before Christmas as well. To find out more about our activities through the year and how we support our local community please ring Jane 0427 707 669 or Jennifer 0438 932 060.

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

WEEK 4

MONDAY

R.Baker

D. Armitage & J. Corocher

TUESDAY

B.Bennett

M. Benn

WEDNESDAY

G.McLean

J.Connell

THURSDAY

S.Turner

FRIDAY

R.Baker

Richmond Valley Council sta

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 Satur-

day 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, 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: 9am12noon; 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 SENIOR CITIZENS, NOVEMBER MEETING “Grafton Senior Citizens recently held November meeting, attendance 38, apologies 8. Guest speaker, David Poverello, Westpac Rescue helicopter, spoke on statistics of service, with25Yo of money needed to run service comes from fund raising. Sick: best wishes, Judy Ireland. New members: Welcome Margaret Jones; Ressinda Flower. Deceased: sympathy to Joy Ryder on death of husband Ken, former member. Correspon-

dence: In, letters from Westlawn Investments; Travelling nurse; seniors concert, Saraton; return thanks from Robyn Jackson. Out, cards, welcome letters to new members. Coach Trips: Next day trip to Evans Head area, 14 Nov, finalized. Trips for next year now being considered, with day trip to Urbenville area,27 Feb, on sale next meeting. Christmas lunch: now on sale, 525,2 course meal, & entertainment, final numbers by 13 Nov. General Business: latest newsletter now being distributed; latest scams mentioned; Christmas recess closing & re-opening dates on noticeboard; members asked to consider nominating for committee. Meeting competition winners: D. Bailey; D. Baker; J. Johnson; B. Townsend; B. Hall; Y. Cooney; K. Lawson; A. Moran. Next meeting: 10am, Tuesday, 9 December. No guest speaker. Note, no January meeting. Enq Sandra, 6642 7720 or 0417 464 946.

Grafton Branch CWA

Grafton CWA Handicraft Group will be meeting on 24 November 2025 to share ideas and make Christmas Decorations. We will meet at the Salvation Army Church Hall at 91 Oliver Street, Grafton from 9.30am11.30am. Come along for a cuppa, create some Christmas Decorations and make new friends

GRAFTON AL-ANON FAMILY GROUP

Our meetings are held weekly on Tuesdays at 12md1.30pm 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 self-supporting 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 ClarenceEnvironmental

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

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). Al-Anon 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 after-school 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 freeplay 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 mindfulness-based 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. Coffee, 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.

Tintenbar

David Lane’s 2025 Painting Exhibition & Studio Sale opens on Sat 29th November & Sun 30th November 11am-5pm (DST) and will also be open daily from Thurs 4th to Sun 7th December 11.00am5.00pm (DST). All welcome. The studio gallery is located at 31 Fernleigh Road, Tintenbar in northern NSW. For more information & to arrange a preview prior to the opening please call Maureen on 0418794860. David also accepts commissions

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 Heffron 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 offending 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 AREA S

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:

Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog inland. Light winds becoming northeasterly 15 to 25 km/h during the day then becoming light during the evening. Thursday. Mostly sunny. The chance of morning fog inland. Slight chance of a shower. The chance of a storm in the afternoon and evening. Light winds becoming northeasterly 15 to 25 km/h during the day then becoming light during the evening.

Northern Tablelands District:

Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog. Light winds becoming northwest to northeasterly 15 to 20 km/h during the day then becoming light during the afternoon. Thursday. Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog. Slight chance of a shower in the morning and afternoon. The chance

of a storm in the afternoon and evening. Light winds becoming west to northwesterly 15 to 20 km/h during the morning then becoming light during the day.

New South Wales: Dry and mostly sunny apart from the chance of light showers in the far northeast, on the Snowy Mountains, and along the south coast. Patchy morning fog in the northeast. Daytime temperatures above average, most notably in the central eastern area. North to northeasterly winds along the coast, freshening during the afternoon, then turning southerly along the far south coast later. Light and variable winds on and west of the ranges, tending W/SW in the south during the day. Thursday. Isolated showers and possible afternoon storms in the east and about North West Slopes and Plains. Dry and partly cloudy elsewhere. Daytime temperatures below average along the south coast and southern inland, tending above average elsewhere. Southeast to southwesterly winds in the

south and west, extending to the central area through the day. North to northeasterly winds in the northeast quarter and about northern inland plains.

Byron Coast: Winds: Northeasterly about 10 knots increasing to 15 to 20 knots during the morning. Seas: Below 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres south of Cape Byron during the afternoon or evening. Swell: Southerly 1 to 1.5 metres, decreasing to around 1 metre during the morning. Weather: Mostly sunny.

Coffs Coast:

Winds: North to northeasterly 15 to 25 knots. Seas: Around 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 2 metres during the morning. Swell: Southerly 1.5 metres, decreasing to around 1 metre during the morning. Weather: Partly cloudy.

Gold Coast Waters: Winds: Easterly 10 to 15 knots turning northeasterly during the afternoon. Seas: Below 1 metre. Swell: Southerly below 1 metre. Weather: Mostly sunny.

Cofs Harbour Boardriders claim hat-trick victory at Northern NSW Qualifer

Jef Gibbs

Cofs Harbour Boardriders Club have once again proven their dominance on home turf, claiming their third consecutive victory at the Australian Boardriders Battle (ABB) Northern NSW Regional Qualifer at Diggers Beach. The event, blessed with clear skies and fun 1–2ft waves, brought together 13 of the region’s strongest boardrider clubs for a thrilling day of highenergy surfng and ferce competition.

Third consecutive regional triumph

After a tense day of heats, the fnal showdown saw Cofs Harbour, LE-BA, Angourie, and Kingsclif Boardriders battling it out for top honours. With minutes left on the clock and Cofs Harbour sitting in third place, local powerhouse Jayke Sharp found a crucial wave, scoring 7.67 points to propel his team to victory.

Team representative Madison Williams said it was a nail-biting fnish.

“Wow, it was a nerveracking fnal, but good to get it done. It just shows it’s never over till it’s over,” Williams said.

“I’m so stoked for Jayke to fnd that wave right at the end of the heat and give us the win. It’s always a team efort, but he’s been our anchor for years. And it’s always nice to get a win at home.” The win also earned Cofs Harbour the Jim

Beam Team Spirit Award, refecting the club’s outstanding sportsmanship and community support.

A community celebration

The atmosphere at Diggers Beach was electric as supporters fooded the shoreline, cheering on local surfers and young groms alike. Cofs Harbour Boardriders Club President Carly White said the event showcased the strength and unity of the local surfng community.

“It’s a privilege to host here in our hometown,” White said.

“Our community has

really come together today — the microgroms are out in force, all dressed up and bringing incredible energy. We’ve got grandparents, siblings, cousins, the whole works down here. We can really feel the love and support of the community.”

Standout performances across the board

The Boost Mobile Wave of the Day went to Mikey McDonagh (LE-BA Boardriders) for his stunning 9.17-point ride in the semi-fnals — a display of power and precision in tricky conditions.

“It feels good to string

a few heats together and put up some solid scores,” McDonagh said.

“The semi-fnal wave was a bit of a surprise, but I just kept building confdence throughout the day. We’ve come close a few times, so we’re pumped to head to Burleigh next year and give it another crack.”

Meanwhile, Corey Ziems (Angourie Boardriders) was named the Celsius Overall Performer, delivering consistent scores across the event and leading his team to multiple heat wins.

The top six teams from the Northern NSW qualifer now progress to the Australian

Boardriders Battle Grand Final presented by NRMA Insurance , to be held at Burleigh Heads, Queensland, on 7–8 March 2026

Northern NSW qualifying teams

l Angourie Boardriders Club

l Cofs Harbour Boardriders Club

l Woolgoolga Boardriders Club

l LE-BA Boardriders Club

l Kingsclif Boardriders Club

l Boomerang Boardriders Club

Specialty Awards

l Celsius Overall

Performer: Corey Ziems (Angourie BRC)

l Boost Mobile Wave of the Day: Mikey McDonagh (LE-BA Boardriders)

l Jim Beam Team Spirit Award: Cofs Harbour BRC

Strong showing from Northern NSW talent

The event showcased a rich mix of experience and youth, including former World Championship Tour surfers, up-andcoming juniors, and community favourites such as dual ISA Gold Medallist Dane Henry (Kingsclif Boardriders)

For the Cofs Harbour locals, the victory marks a strong statement heading into the national fnals and underscores their consistent form on home soil.

“It’s been a massive efort from everyone involved — competitors, volunteers, and supporters. To go three in a row is just unreal,” said White.

With over 80 boardrider clubs competing nationwide through state qualifers across WA, NSW, VIC, TAS, SA, and QLD, the ABB continues to be the country’s largest grassroots surfng series, celebrating teamwork, community, and Australia’s deep surf culture.

The 2025/26 ABB Grand Final promises to be a must-watch event, with Northern NSW’s best now preparing to take on Australia’s elite at Burleigh Heads in March 2026

NORTHERN RIVERS WEEKEND SPORT WRAP – GOLF AND BOWLS RESULTS

Casino Social Golf

– Thelly Boyce Memorial Trophy

Dave Olive Claims Sippers Cup in Tight Finish

In a gripping countback fnish, Dave Olive edged out Darren Deiws to claim The Thelly Boyce Memorial Trophy – The Sippers Cup with 21 stableford points. Vinny mastered the greens to win the putting trophy with

16 putts, while G. Shephard scored the players draw.

Nearest the pins: J. Rankin (8th & 13th), G. Randall (10th), M. Gooding (11th) , P. Piccoli (14th), D. Olive (15th & 16th) , and Vinny (18th) Next Sunday’s event, proudly sponsored by DIY Home Timber & Hardware Casino , will tee of between 6:30am and 7:30am — visitors welcome.

Casino Bowls – Wednesday

Ladies Social Jennings, Skirrey & Mead Shine on the Green It was a friendly yet competitive morning at Casino RSM Club, where Valda Jennings, Raelene Skirrey and Mary Mead secured victory with the day’s highest margin. In another rink, Sandra Guthrie, Julie Creighton and Ivy

Watson triumphed narrowly over Janine Robards Page, Tanya Maxwell and Denise Skinner by just one shot. A strong turnout and cheerful atmosphere marked another successful Wednesday for Casino’s ladies bowlers.

Coraki Veterans Golf – Thursday Stableford Newton, Weaver and

Doyle Dominate Veterans Field

A 49-strong feld contested the 18-hole single stableford on a superbly presented Coraki course. L. Newton took the club handicap, J. Weaver won the vets handicap, with T. Doyle second and P. Brophy third.

R. Mackay claimed the free game, while chicken and ball winners included S. Reddell, L. Clarke, R. Webber, W. Lunnon,

J. Larkin, S. Toms, W. Henwood, T. Foster, I. Welsh, and G. Davis Nearest to pins were Bruce McDonald (3rd/12th) and W. Swindle (6th/15th) This Thursday’s event will be another 18-hole stableford (8:00am shotgun start), with the Christmas Party Day and Presentation scheduled for 27 November Till then, good golfng! — Max

Cofs Harbour Boardriders Club emerge victorious.

Credit: Andrew Shield / Surfng Australia

Question asked: who can beat Harwood?

By Tim Howard

Wet weather that washed out round 6 of the Clarence River frst grade cricket competition has given us the time to pop the question: who can stop Harwood from winning a third consecutive premiership?

Harwood returned to the CRCA Premier League in 2023-24 and made an immediate impact.

The lower river juggernaut has not lost a game since it’s return and has dominated the opening games of the current season with four wins and two wash outs from the frst six games of the competition.

And despite some player losses the production line at Ferret Park (aka Harwood Oval) has been in overdrive to fll the gaps from the loss of players like Coby Tabor, who had blasted two centuries by this stage of the competition last year.

Ashley Moss, Josh Lane and Alex Moftt have all made notable contributions that has helped their team remain unbeaten so far.

Leading umpire Bruce Baxter agreed that Harwood remained the team to beat but believed this season they were more

vulnerable than they have been.

He said their player strength was down and they had been forced to re-enlist some veterans, like Matt Young, to cover for absences.

“To Harwood’s credit they have been able to keep winning, so they’re defnitely doing something

Veteran umpire and administrator Bruce Baxter is in the perfect position to see which team is performing this season. He can’t go past Harwood as the team to beat, but believes they might be more vulnerable this season than they have been.

Gary Nichols.

right,” he said.

“I just think that they’re not looking the same side they were when they came back into the competition two or three years ago.”

Baxter said there were two teams that could pose a threat.

“The most obvious one is Lawrence,” he said. “They’ve been the most

serious opposition for them for a couple of years.

“They have the level of experience and depth of talent to threaten if they get it right on the day.”

Baxter said the “dark horse” was Tucabia Copmanhurst, which had beneftted from the demise of South Services/Westlawn this season.

“They’ve picked up a couple of top players, Dylan Cleaver and Nathan Blanch from Souths,” he said.

“It will be interesting to see how they go. So far Dylan’s been bowling pretty well, but hasn’t fred with the bat.

“Nathan’s tweaked something in a minor way, but when he’s back to full ftness, he’ll be good for them.”

The competition resumes on Saturday with a round of one day games.

At Harwood the home team takes on last placed Iluka in a game most

expect Harwood to win comfortably.

Maclean United hosts Tucabia at Barry Watts Oval in a test for both teams.

And at Ellem Oval, Grafton, GDSC Easts will need to pull out all the stops to beat second places Lawrence.

Easts have some match winners, like explosive all round Shannon Connor and wily left arm spinner Dave Duroux.

But Lawrence has plenty of depth and experience in their line up and has shown an ability to absorb early setbacks.

Photo:

By Gary Nichols

Photo: Gary Nicholls.

Photo: Gary Nichols.

The Northern Rivers Times News Edition 280

Nats leader resignation not a total surprise

Kyogle MPS Marks 100 Years of Community Care

More questions on council governance issues

Lismore’s

recycling habits deliver results

Call to bring cold case inquiry closer to home

Police appeal for information after serious crash west of Lismore

Mayor pushes for maternity unit GBH redevelopment stage 1

Developer to challenge DA refusal in Land and Environment Court

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

Join the Cycle This National Recycling Week

Recycling right at home

Avoiding waste and batery safety

Northern NSW Local Health District Notice of public meeting

No laughing mater Nazis aren’t part of the furniture

Comment

New Store Opening — 27 November

Saying ‘NO!’ to Domestic Violence

Councillor moves to condemn Great Koala National Park as community debate intensifies

Original features still intact in sale of old bank

ADOPT-A-FAMILY

BE THE REASON SOMEONE SMILES THIS CHRISTMAS

New residence nears completion as opening approaches South Grafton Community Aged Care

Community invited to Open Day

Asbestos is still present in 1 in 3 homes across Australia

Story written and imagination all from Miss 9 year old

Byron Shire beaches restored ahead of summer holidays

Beaches under repair

Safety reminders for the public

A safer, more accessible coastline

KYOGLE CARAVAN PARK RE-OPENS AFTER $1.8 MILLION UPGRADE

Landlords Face New Penalties Under NSW Crackdown on Illicit Tobacco and Vaping

Richmond Valley

CHRISTMAS EVENTS CHRISTMAS EVENTS

Letters to the Editor

Couple Embrace Freedom at Lincoln Lifestyle Northern Rivers

Further Work to Boost NSW Bush re Resilience Six Years On

Book

Forces of Good and Evil prepare to battle

Don’t Let Scammers Steal Your Christmas Cheer

NORPA Launches “The Village Circuit” with Regional Tour of Prima Facie

Small Grant Applications Now Open for the Seed Giving Circle

Marine Rescue NSW Records

Busiest Start to Boating Season

NEW BBQ TRAILER TO BOOST ROTARY CLUB OF UPPER RICHMOND’S

NBN

COMMUNITY SUPPORT

Hosting Free Community Sessions in Kyogle

Running Man 2025 flm review Times

Northern Rivers Times

ENTERTAINMENT

November 20, 2025

PUZZLES

TIME FOR TRIVIA

WEEKLY CROSSWORD

MAIN

BEST ON THE BOX

FRIDAY, November 21

SUNDAY THE FORSYTES

SHANE DELIA’S MALTA

TARGET TIME

I U E

N F A

R T I

STARS & PUZZLES

ASTROLOGY

The Great Moscow Circus brings its Extreme show to Alstonville

When Relationships End: Men’s Mental Health at Serious Risk

Eliminate trigger foods to beat fatigue and feel lighter this summer

Government funds new first-line treatment for deadly blood cancer

BOWEN THERAPY

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Southwestern China

Top 5 Places to Visit

Top 5 Deals & How to Save Money

Conclusion

Accommodation Options

Currency & Budget Considerations

WHATS ON THE MENU TONIGHT?

Chicken Parmigiana Rissoles