The Northern Rivers Times News Edition 306

YAMBA MEGA DA APPROVED, BUT 194 CONDITIONS

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Behind the 194 conditions for approval of Yamba mega-DA

By Tim Howard

The NSW Land and Environment Court may have approved a controversial 285-lot subdivision at Yamba, but the sheer scale and detail of the 194 conditions attached to the consent reveal just how many concerns surrounded the project.

Far from giving the developer a simple green light, the court decision, made earlier this month, imposes a web of engineering, environmental, flood safety and infrastructure requirements that could shape whether—and how quickly—the project proceeds.

The conditions attached to the approval for the estimated $53 million subdivision at 52-54 Miles Street provide a rare glimpse into the hidden complexity of large-scale coastal development in flood-prone areas like Yamba.

Perhaps the most striking condition requires the subdivision’s proposed community facility and

flood refuge centre to be completed before homes in the estate can be occupied.

That requirement underscores how central flood risk and evacuation concerns were throughout the assessment process.

The court approval effectively acknowledges that hundreds of future residents could require emergency refuge during major flood events or severe weather, and that critical safety infrastructure must exist before the community is established.

It also places a major upfront cost on the developer, requiring construction of community infrastructure before residential sales can fully proceed.

Planning experts often note that court approval does not mean a developer can immediately start construction.

In this case, the conditions suggest years of further technical work may still lie ahead. The developer must prepare a long list of additional plans and

certifications, including:

• a Flood and Emergency Evacuation Plan;

• Road Network Design Plan;

• Earthworks Management Plan;

• Erosion and Sediment Control Plan;

• Vegetation Management Plan;

• Traffic Control Plan;

• Water and Sewer Reticulation Plans;

• and procedures for the discovery of Aboriginal objects or historical relics.

The development must also comply with staged infrastructure delivery, meaning roads, utilities and services must progressively keep pace with construction.

The court also imposed significant transport infrastructure obligations.

Conditions include upgrades to Carrs Drive and Miles Street, connections to Golding Street, turnaround areas, and provision of bicycle, pedestrian and bus facilities.

Those requirements reflect long-running

concerns from residents about traffic pressure, evacuation access and congestion around the rapidly growing Yamba area.

The volume and nature of the conditions suggest the court accepted many of the issues raised by objectors, council staff and planners during the lengthy approval process.

Rather than refusing the project outright, the court instead attempted to manage those risks through regulation and technical oversight.

That increasingly reflects how major planning disputes are resolved in NSW: not through simple approval or refusal, but through highly conditioned consents aimed at controlling environmental, engineering and community impacts.

The conditions may also have commercial implications.

Large infrastructure obligations and technical requirements can add millions of dollars to development costs and extend project timelines.

Even after approval, developers can face years of further design work, agency sign-offs and escalating construction expenses before a project becomes financially viable.

Some approved projects are delayed, redesigned, sold or abandoned entirely because the final compliance burden becomes too great.

The Yamba subdivision has been contested since it was first proposed in 2019. The application evolved through several redesigns before being refused by the Northern Regional Planning Panel in June 2024.

The developer later appealed to the Land and Environment Court, which ultimately upheld the appeal this month.

But while the legal fight may largely be over, the 194 conditions attached to the consent suggest the real challenge— delivering the project within the court’s strict requirements—may only just be beginning.

Norco Crowned Australia’s Favourite Fresh Milk Again

Farmer-owned dairy giant secures back-to-back national honours

By Jeff Gibbs

Northern Rivers dairy icon Norco has again been recognised as Australia’s favourite fresh full cream milk brand, claiming a major national customer satisfaction award for the second year running.

The farmer-owned cooperative has taken out the 2026 Canstar Most Satisfied Customers –Fresh Full Cream Milk Award, reinforcing its standing as one of Australia’s most trusted dairy brands.

Based on independent research involving Australians who recently purchased and used fresh milk products, the

award measures customer satisfaction across areas including taste, freshness, value and overall experience.

Despite being produced primarily across Northern New South Wales and Queensland, Norco outperformed larger national and international competitors in one of Australia’s most fiercely contested supermarket categories.

The result marks another milestone for Australia’s oldest and last remaining 100 per cent farmer-owned dairy co-operative, which has been supporting regional communities for more than 130 years.

Norco Chief Executive Officer Michael Hampson said the recognition represented more than just consumer preference.

“This isn’t just about milk — it’s about what Australians are choosing to support,” Mr Hampson said.

He said increasing pressures across agriculture, manufacturing and Australian production sectors made support for local farmer-owned businesses more important than ever.

Mr Hampson said the award reflected the dedication and consistency of Norco’s farming families and employees.

“To be recognised two years in a row speaks to the care, pride and consistency our farmers bring to what they do every single day,” he said.

Founded in Byron Bay in 1895, Norco today has 281 active members across 190 farms spanning Northern NSW and south-east Queensland, producing more than 200 million litres of milk annually.

The award represents another success story for a regional business with deep roots in the Northern Rivers and a strong connection to local farming communities.

JACK LINK’S TO UNVEIL TOWER OF BEEF AND CHANCE AT $1 MILLION GIVEAWAY AT CASINO BEEF WEEK 2026

Casino, NSW — Jack Link’s Australia and Casino Beef Week are set to take their landmark partnership to new heights in 2026, announcing the Jack Link’s Tower of Beef, a 10-metre experience culminating in a chance to win a $1,000,000 prize giveaway during the iconic regional festival.

Following a highly successful collaboration in 2025, Jack Link’s returns as a major sponsor of Casino Beef Week, reinforcing its deep roots in the Northern Rivers community and its role as one of the region’s largest employers and a global ambassador for Australian beef.

At the centre of this year’s expanded partnership is the Jack Link’s Tower of Beef, a custom-built 10-metre installation of beef jerky designed to deliver a one-of-a-kind festival experience.

The event will take place on Saturday, 30 May 2026, from 8:00am to 2:00pm, at Little Walker Street, Casino.

The activation will feature a live on-site competition where three finalists from the ACT, Victoria, and Queensland will compete for the chance to win $1,000,000. The finalists were selected randomly following a nationwide promotion linked to Jack Link’s recent collaboration with

global YouTube sensation MrBeast, which saw nearly half a million Australians and New Zealanders engage with the What’s the Flavour? promotion by scanning promotional packs and visiting the campaign website.

The Tower of Beef event is expected to be one of the standout moments of Casino Beef Week 2026, with Channel 9’s Today Show broadcasting live from the site during the morning, bringing national attention to the celebration.

Alongside the headline activation, festivalgoers can expect a full program of entertainment and giveaways, building on the

success of the Friday event, Jack Link’s Breakfast with the Butchers, where more than 10,000 free sausage and steak breakfasts will

once again be served thanks to the generosity of local butchers and strong regional industry collaboration.

Dan Bitti, Marketing Director APAC for Jack Link’s, said the activation reflects both the brand’s community roots and its commitment to creating unforgettable experiences.

“As a major partner of Beef Week, and with our manufacturing home right here in Casino, we’re proud to give back to the Northern Rivers community. As a familyowned business, we wanted to share this chance at a million-dollar giveaway with the region that has supported us from the beginning, bringing the fun and excitement only Jack Link’s can deliver.”

The 2026 partnership

builds on Jack Link’s continued investment in Casino, including its partnership with the Casino Bulls and Casino Cougars, while reinforcing Casino’s position as the heart of Australia’s beef industry. Further announcements are expected in the leadup to the festival, with organisers hinting that additional “towering surprises” may still be revealed.

For more information, visit https://www. casinobeefweek.com.au/ or follow @CasinoBeefWeek on Instagram and Facebook.

Red Shield Appeal Calls On Northern Rivers To ‘Be The Hope’

By Jeff Gibbs

The Salvation Army is calling on Northern Rivers residents to dig deep and support this year’s Red Shield Appeal, as cost-ofliving pressures continue to place increasing strain on families and individuals across the region.

Now in its 62nd year, Australia’s largest and longest-running doorknock fundraising campaign is aiming to raise $41 million nationally to help fund community support services and programs across the country.

Funds raised locally through the appeal will remain within the Northern Rivers and be directed toward helping people experiencing hardship in the region.

Major Bruce Harmer

Salvation Army urges locals to support families doing it tough

said many people across communities were facing growing financial pressure

amid rising living costs and ongoing uncertainty.

“We know that people

are doing it really tough in our community right now,” Major Harmer said.

He said many households were finding it increasingly difficult to make ends meet and urged the community to get behind this year’s appeal.

“That is why we are calling on those in the Northern Rivers to dig deep, get involved in the Red Shield Appeal, and be the hope our community desperately needs right now.”

The Red Shield Appeal will culminate during Red Shield Weekend on May 30 and 31, with a range of opportunities available for people wanting to support the campaign. These include volunteering at shopping centres, doorknocking, organising workplace collections, online fundraising and direct donations.

Nationally, The Salvation Army is seeking around 15,000 volunteers to help

support this year’s appeal efforts.

The Salvos continue to play a major role in supporting Australians facing hardship. According to figures released in the organisation’s latest reporting, assistance was provided to one person every 17 seconds across Australia last year.

Services delivered included more than one million nights of accommodation, over 1.4 million meals and support sessions reaching hundreds of thousands of Australians experiencing challenges including homelessness, family violence and financial hardship.

People wanting to volunteer, donate or access support services can visit The Salvation Army Australia or call 13 SALVOS.

Community hub renewal proposed for Wooli St Hall

By Tim Howard

A local church group is set to urge Clarence Valley Council to preserve the former Wooli Street Hall in Yamba as a community hub, as councillors prepare to consider a major report into affordable housing opportunities on councilowned land.

Pastor Steve Stuttle from the Pentecostal church group The Gathering is expected to address Thursday’s ordinary council meeting with a deputation on the future of the Wooli Street site.

The hall and former library precinct at 45 Wooli

Street is one of 11 councilowned sites examined in a new housing options report prepared for council by Solve Property Group.

The report identifies the site as potentially suitable for affordable housing because of its central Yamba location, high amenity and negligible flood impact.

But council staff have recommended delaying any action on the site until at least the 2027/28 operational plan so a broader masterplanning and community engagement process can occur.

“The subject site is considered a unique and

highly valuable asset with broad potential,” the report states.

“The site’s history as a community asset, current SP2 – Infrastructure (Community Facilities) zoning, classification as ‘community’ land and previous community uses requires careful consideration before any changes are proposed.”

Mr Stuttle said his group had been hiring the hall for Sunday services for about nine years and had applied last year to manage the broader precinct after council sought expressions of interest.

“We’re one of many groups that hired the hall

over a number of years,” he said.

“Our desire as a church is to not just have it as a church facility, we want to be able to reach out to the community and also have that facility being used for community use, because that was its original intention.”

The Gathering was the only group to apply to manage the hall, while the former library space was allocated to Country Universities Centre.

Mr Stuttle said the church group wanted to keep the hall available for lowcost community use and believed there was demand from small local groups unable to afford council’s newer facilities at Treelands Drive.

“They said they didn’t want us letting it out to other groups because they didn’t want to be competing with the new facility,” he said.

“But since then we’ve heard a number of people saying they can’t afford the new facility.”

He said the group hoped to establish a youth program at the hall and eventually fit out a basic kitchen space to support a community meal or soup kitchen initiative.

“We want to be able to do something where we can give to the community and help those that are in need and are struggling,” he said.

“That’s what part of the church is for. It’s not just having church meetings on a Sunday, it’s actually reaching out and helping the community as well.”

Mr Stuttle said the group was also seeking permission to allow small non-profit organisations to use the hall at minimal cost.

“We’re definitely not

The battle to keep the Wooli Street Hall in Yamba in community hands has been ongoing as this meeting in November 2022 shows. Then residents feared the site might be sold. Now it has surfaced in a council report into options for community housing. The Gathering Pentecostal church group has used the hall for church services for nine years and has a proposition for the council to manage it as a community hub.

trying to make money,” he said.

“We just want to be there for the community and keep it as a community precinct.”

The broader housing report argues Clarence Valley faces growing pressure to provide more affordable and diverse housing options, particularly for key workers, older residents and smaller households.

It identifies four priority sites for affordable housing development, led by the former South Grafton indoor pool site at Cambridge Street.

The Wooli Street site was recognised as having affordable housing

potential, but the report acknowledged any proposal to rezone or reclassify the land would require significant political and community support.

Council staff have recommended councillors defer any immediate action on Wooli Street until resources are available for a detailed community consultation and masterplanning process.

Thursday’s meeting is expected to provide an early indication of how councillors intend to balance the competing pressures of affordable housing delivery and retaining valued community facilities.

By Samantha Elley

It was in 1926 that a few like-minded golf lovers gathered to establish the Coraki Golf Club.

Back then, fairways were laid out in and around the Coraki Showground.

“Where the sixth fairway is now was the showground,” said Coraki Golf Club committee member, Steve Ormond.

“They started playing

Coraki Golf Club turning 100.

amongst the showground.

“They managed to cut out a few holes and played against other clubs in the area and eventually the showground gave way to the golf course.”

In 1958, Woodburn Council gave the lease over to the golf club and that started the modern course.

“Most of the holes we have mapped out now came after that period,” said Steve.

“The eighth hole is carved out of a wetland and people could shoot ducks while playing golf.

“Cows were allowed to roam around the fairways.”

In the 1970s, 80s and 90s the clubhouse was built and there was a permanent green keeper.

In the 80s drainage was added to the course making it an all-weather facility.

In the 2000s they put in a dam and a pump and were

able to irrigate the fairways and greens to mitigate droughts.

The 2022 flood devastated the course and it was closed for a number of months.

The army came and established itself in the clubhouse while working to provide relief programs.

Cart paths were built throughout the course, thanks to a number of grants provided.

Today, the club is run on the efforts of volunteers who commit to keeping the fairways and greens in tip top condition and running the bar at the clubhouse.

The Coraki Golf Club is truly a top class facility for the area, according to Steve and the whole club is looking to celebrate 100 years of golf in the area in October.

“There will be a large celebration on Saturday,

24th October, with a gala dinner,” he said.

“And there will be other activities on that weekend.” Watch this space for more updates.

Meanwhile, Steve has asked if anyone has stories, photos or any type of memorabilia they’d like to share for the book he is writing and a display to email him at corakisecretary@gmail. com

Lismore Buyback Land Planning Moves Into New Phase

Specialist team appointed to shape

of flood-affected precincts

By Jeff Gibbs

Planning for the future use of flood-affected buyback land across Lismore has entered a new stage, with a specialist consultant team appointed to help guide long-term recovery and resilience outcomes across the city.

The NSW Reconstruction Authority and Lismore City Council have appointed a consultant team led by REALMstudios to begin detailed planning for four key precincts — Lismore Centre, North Lismore, South Lismore and East Lismore. The work marks a significant

step in Lismore’s postflood recovery journey following the devastating 2022 floods.

The planning process will focus on identifying resilient and sustainable future uses for land acquired through voluntary buyback programs and no longer considered suitable for residential development due to ongoing flood risks.

Community consultation is expected to continue throughout 2026, with residents, businesses and stakeholders invited to contribute ideas and help shape future land use across the affected areas.

future

The broader consultant team includes specialists in climate resilience, urban design, landscape architecture, engineering, environmental science and community engagement, bringing together expertise aimed at balancing practical outcomes with long-term planning.

Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg said discussions had already begun around practical uses for some parcels of land while wider planning work continues.

Ideas under consideration include additional parking around the Showgrounds and exploring future commercial opportunities

within South Lismore.

Mayor Krieg said engaging specialist consultants would help ensure community priorities remained central to the process while also delivering strong technical guidance.

NSW Minister for Recovery and Minister

for the North Coast

Janelle Saffin said the appointment represented an important shift in Lismore’s recovery process.

“With a significant number of voluntary buybacks now complete in Lismore, the focus is moving toward how this

land can support safety, resilience and long-term community outcomes,” she said.

Council and the Reconstruction Authority are expected to release further consultation details and planning timelines in coming months.

Don’t believe everything you read on the internet

By Tim Howard

For as long as I can remember people have said: “Don’t believe everything you read in the paper.”

It is an old warning, older than social media and older than the internet.

In many ways it reflects something healthy.

A free press was never supposed to be treated as infallible. Journalists are human beings working under pressure, with biases, blind spots and incomplete information. Scepticism is part of democratic citizenship.

But democracies face a different danger when scepticism hardens into total distrust.

Because if people no longer trust journalism, courts, elections, science or public institutions at all, eventually the question becomes: why bother?

Why vote if elections are rigged? Why read journalism if every reporter lies? Why accept court rulings if judges are corrupt? Why cooperate socially if every institution is fundamentally fraudulent?

Democracies cannot survive on distrust alone.

That is why the relationship between trust and scrutiny is so important. Healthy societies require both simultaneously. Too much trust produces passivity and corruption. Too little trust produces cynicism, tribalism and eventually social paralysis.

Modern societies depend on delegated trust. Most of us cannot personally verify the safety of our drinking water, the engineering of bridges, the maintenance of aircraft or the counting of votes. We trust systems because civilisation itself requires a degree of confidence in other people and institutions.

Psychologically, this begins early. Children develop by learning that the world is sufficiently stable and trustworthy to navigate. Adults eventually discover institutions fail. Governments fail. Churches fail. Journalists fail. Courts fail. Political movements fail.

Mature citizenship requires learning to absorb those disappointments without collapsing into either blind loyalty or permanent nihilism.

And this tension is now under immense strain.

Press freedom is increasingly under attack internationally.

In the United States, President Donald Trump repeatedly labelled journalists “enemies of the people,” a phrase with an ugly authoritarian history.

As a recent 4 Corners report revealed, in El Salvador President Nayib Bukele has cultivated hostility toward independent reporting while critical journalists have faced harassment and exile.

And Australia is not immune to these pressures.

Recently, journalists from the ABC were excluded from a One Nation press conference during the Farrer by-election campaign.

The apparent reason was straightforward: the ABC had previously reported that one of the party’s candidates elsewhere had faced serious sex charges in the United Kingdom.

The reporting was not alleged to be false. It was damaging.

And that distinction matters.

Political actors increasingly describe reporting as “biased” not necessarily because it is inaccurate, but because it harms them politically.

Yet journalism that never damages anyone is

probably not doing its job properly.

Investigative reporting into corruption, abuse, hypocrisy or criminal allegations almost always harms reputations.

If reputational damage itself becomes proof of unfairness, meaningful scrutiny becomes impossible.

This reveals something uncomfortable about democracy.

A free press is a strange institution.

Democratic societies deliberately create a class of people whose job is to intrude, ask difficult questions and reveal information powerful individuals or organisations would often prefer hidden.

Journalists are granted a conditional licence to be irritating because democracies understand power resists scrutiny naturally.

And yet the relationship between the public and journalism has always been uneasy.

Part of the reason is tribal. Human beings tend to experience criticism of groups they identify with as personal attack.

Criticism of a political party upsets supporters. Criticism of a church upsets believers. Criticism of a sporting club upsets fans.

People often support press freedom abstractly while resenting it emotionally when scrutiny lands close to home.

Identity politics has intensified this dynamic because many people

Investigations are expensive. Local reporting is expensive.

And audiences themselves shape this environment.

One of the strengths of old newspaper culture was that readers often encountered stories they did not expect to care about. A finance story, an arts review, a council debate or a farming feature might become compelling simply because it was well reported and involved passionate, recognisable human beings.

increasingly experience institutions as extensions of personal identity.

Criticism no longer feels like disagreement about an organisation or ideology; it feels like hostility toward the self.

At the same time, institutions genuinely have failed in serious ways. The exposure of abuse within the Catholic Church was not merely about isolated offenders.

Journalists and inquiries began identifying structural conditions that enabled concealment: hierarchy, deference, reputational protection and closed systems of accountability.

Similar patterns later emerged in youth organisations, schools and sporting bodies.

Serious journalism looks for patterns, not merely isolated scandals.

As a trainee reporter, I was taught that if you attended a car accident, you asked whether other crashes had occurred at the same intersection. A single event is news. A pattern is understanding.

That distinction matters because modern media environments increasingly reward sensation over context.

Algorithms privilege outrage, novelty and emotional intensity. Journalism itself is under enormous economic pressure.

News organisations facing collapsing business models push reporters to publish faster and produce more. Nuance is expensive.

Now audiences increasingly consume information that reinforces existing identities and interests. Politics becomes tribal. Media consumption becomes tribal. Social media feeds people more of what they already believe.

At the same time, we have begun losing trust in institutions that at least attempt rigour in producing information and replacing them with systems that often reward emotional resonance over verification.

Traditional journalism, science and courts evolved elaborate processes precisely because human beings are fallible.

Newspapers developed editors, fact checking, legal review and correction mechanisms. Science developed peer review and reproducibility. Courts developed evidentiary rules and appeal systems.

None of these institutions are flawless. But they acknowledge error and attempt to manage it systematically.

Social media largely removed those safeguards. A rigorously investigated report now appears on the same screen, with the same visual authority, as a conspiracy theory, anonymous rumour, manipulated video or something “someone heard from a friend.”

And psychologically, people are highly vulnerable to information delivered through social trust networks. We are inclined to believe familiar voices, emotionally satisfying narratives and claims that reinforce existing identities.

Institutional information often feels cold, uncertain

and frustrating:

• “the evidence suggests,”

• “further investigation is needed,”

• “the issue is complicated.”

Misinformation rarely speaks that way. It offers certainty, villains and emotional reassurance.

Ironically, many people distrust traditional journalism while placing extraordinary faith in social media systems with almost no accountability mechanisms at all.

Newspapers can publish corrections. Broadcasters can be sued. Journalists answer to editors, laws and standards.

Social media rumours can spread globally in minutes with no editor, no verification and often no identifiable source.

Yet despite all these failures and tensions, democracies still require institutions worthy of conditional trust.

Not blind trust. Not naive trust. Conditional trust reinforced by scrutiny. Courts must be criticised sometimes. Journalism must be challenged sometimes. Governments must be held accountable constantly. But societies also need enough confidence in shared institutions to preserve the possibility of collective life itself.

Because when societies lose the ability to trust anything beyond tribe or personality, people begin gravitating toward the worst solutions.

They seek certainty instead of truth, affirmation instead of scrutiny and strongmen instead of institutions.

That is why democracies need a free press, however flawed it may be.

Journalism at its best does not ask citizens for blind faith. It asks something harder: the willingness to look steadily at uncomfortable truths without surrendering entirely to cynicism.

That uneasy balance between trust and scrutiny may be one of the most important achievements of democratic civilisation — and one of the easiest to lose.

Budget Blowout Renews Illicit Tobacco Debate

Black market concerns grow as tobacco excise revenue projections plunge

By Jeff Gibbs

The Federal Government is facing renewed criticism over its handling of Australia’s illicit tobacco crisis after Budget figures revealed a dramatic collapse in projected tobacco excise revenue, alongside concerns enforcement measures remain well short of addressing the scale of the issue.

New Budget papers show Treasury now expects tobacco excise revenue to fall to around $2.1 billion by 2029–30, significantly lower than previous

forecasts. Public reporting has also highlighted concerns around a broader projected shortfall in excise collections over coming years.

The figures have reignited debate over the rapid growth of Australia’s illicit tobacco market, with industry groups arguing current policy settings are failing to contain organised criminal activity.

British American Tobacco Australasia says the Government’s current strategy relies too heavily on enforcement while dedicating limited resources to the problem.

Recent allocations included an additional $14 million nationally for illicit tobacco enforcement initiatives across states and territories.

Critics argue that amount is inadequate given estimates suggesting the illicit tobacco trade may now be worth billions of dollars annually. Concerns have also grown around criminal activity linked to the sector, with reports of violence and firebombing incidents associated with illegal tobacco networks. The debate over tobacco policy has increasingly shifted beyond health concerns and toward

Application for Appointment of Board Members

Rosebank Recreation Reserve Land Manager

Ever wondered who is responsible for keeping Crown reserves operating?

Countless facilities like showgrounds, local halls and parks are run by Statutory Land Manager Boards, made up of people just like you.

People who understand the need and have a desire to manage public land and assets for the beneft of the entire community.

Your role as a Board Member is voluntary, but the rewards of giving something back to the community are priceless.

We are looking for a good mix of people with a variety of skills, however, sound business and fnancial management skills and objective decisionmaking expertise would be a distinct advantage.

Don’t let this opportunity to do something for yourself and your community pass you by – contact us today.

The Rosebank Recreation Reserve Land Manager manages the Reserve No. 86049 at Rosebank notifed on 4-Nov-1966 for Public Recreation.

The term of appointment will be for a period not exceeding 5 years.

Application for membership can be made via portal.crownland.nsw.gov.au

All applications are required to be lodged by 18 June 2026

For further information contact Sharmaine Williams-McKenna on 02 6643 6418 or go to www.crownland.nsw.gov.au/reserve-manager

broader law enforcement and economic issues.

Questions are now being raised about whether rising excise rates have unintentionally strengthened incentives for organised crime to enter the market.

Industry representatives say they have repeatedly warned governments that continual increases in tobacco taxes could create opportunities for illegal suppliers, particularly if consumer demand remained strong and legal

tobacco prices continued rising.

Authorities including border and law enforcement agencies have also previously acknowledged that enforcement alone may struggle to eliminate the illicit trade where strong market demand exists.

The issue is again under scrutiny through a Senate inquiry examining the growth of illicit tobacco and the effectiveness of current responses.

The Federal Government maintains enforcement remains central to its strategy and says efforts continue across agencies to disrupt organised criminal operations, strengthen border controls and reduce illegal supply chains. However, as excise revenue projections continue to fall and concern grows over criminal involvement, pressure is mounting for policymakers to consider whether broader reforms may be needed.

Application for Appointment of Board Members

Harwood Public Hall Reserve Land Manager

Ever wondered who is responsible for keeping Crown reserves operating?

Countless facilities like showgrounds, local halls and parks are run by Statutory Land Manager Boards, made up of people just like you.

People who understand the need and have a desire to manage public land and assets for the beneft of the entire community.

Your role as a Board Member is voluntary, but the rewards of giving something back to the community are priceless.

We are looking for a good mix of people with a variety of skills, however, sound business and fnancial management skills and objective decisionmaking expertise would be a distinct advantage.

Don’t let this opportunity to do something for yourself and your community pass you by – contact us today.

The Harwood Public Hall Reserve Land Manager manages the Reserve No. 90881 at ar ood notifed on 6- ug-19 for Public all.

The term of appointment will be for a period not exceeding 5 years. lication for membershi can be made via portal.crownland.nsw.gov.au

ll a lications are re uired to be lodged by 18 June 2026

For further information contact Sharmaine Williams-McKenna on 02 6643 6418 or go to www.crownland.nsw.gov.au/reserve-manager

Residents, Elders challenge council over road name change

By Tim Howard

Residents living along a remote rural road north of Grafton say they have been caught in a bureaucratic nightmare after discovering Clarence Valley Council had altered the official name of Jackybulbin Road years earlier — despite later admitting it held no records explaining how or why the change occurred.

The dispute erupted publicly after council workers replaced longstanding Jackybulbin Road signs near Mororo in December 2025 with new signs reading “Tullymorgan-Jackybulbin Road”.

Residents say they were never consulted, notified or asked for input about the change, which they claim has caused confusion with banking, deliveries, navigation and emergency services.

The matter has now escalated beyond a neighbourhood dispute, with the Yaegl Elders Aboriginal Corporation lodging a formal complaint with the NSW Ombudsman raising concerns about the lack of consultation and the cultural significance of the name.

Long-time resident Bobby McCaughey said the issue first came to light in January 2025 when her partner Ross Anderson was unable to complete an online banking security check because his address no longer matched official records.

“He’s had that address for 38 years,” Ms McCaughey said.

“He thought there had been some mistake

because every document we had still said Jackybulbin Road.”

According to

advised them the official name recorded through the Spatial Services section of the Geographical Names

correspondence supplied to The Northern Rivers Times, the couple began contacting Clarence Valley Council in January 2025 seeking an explanation for the apparent address change.

The residents allege repeated emails went unanswered for months before council staff

Board, was “TullymorganJackybulbin Road”.

A timeline compiled by the residents alleges council officers later informed them new road signs were being manufactured and would be installed despite their objections.

On December 5, 2025, council replaced two

long-standing Jackybulbin Road signs with new “Tullymorgan-Jackybulbin Road” signage.

Ms McCaughey said residents were stunned.

“We live in a bushfireprone area,” she said.

“Your address matters when you need help. It matters for ambulances, fire services and deliveries.

“We just wanted someone to explain why this happened.”

The residents’ concerns intensified after a GIPA application lodged with council produced a response dated February 24, 2026, which stated there were “no records on file that indicate how and why the road name was changed as, at the time of the change, the process for this was informal.”

The residents argue that conflicts with obligations under the Roads Act and State Records legislation requiring councils to maintain records relating to public roads.

The residents’ submission to the NSW Office of Local Government includes historical documents dating back to the 1980s and 1990s referring to the road as Jackybulbin Road, including development applications, ministerial correspondence, firearms registry documents and quarry-related Land and Environment Court material.

They also point to what they say are inconsistencies in council’s own records and signage, with different documents and maps referring variously to:

• Jackybulbin Road;

• JackybulbinTullymorgan Road; and

• TullymorganJackybulbin Road.

The Yaegl Elders Aboriginal Corporation has now formally backed the residents’ complaint.

In a letter to the NSW Ombudsman, Yaegl Elders chairperson Glenda MacPhail said the road had “always been known as Jackybulin (sic) Road” and there was no practical need to add “Tullymorgan” to the name.

“We are also deeply concerned that the local community was not properly informed or consulted before the matter was submitted to the Geographical Names Board of New South Wales,” Ms MacPhail wrote.

“It is extremely disappointing that we, as Elders and representatives of the local Aboriginal community, were not consulted despite the name relating to an Aboriginal person from this area.”

The letter also raised concerns about potential impacts on emergency services, mail delivery and navigation.

The residents said former Clarence Valley

mayor and current state MP Richie Williamson told them formal road renaming processes normally involved community consultation and regulatory approval.

The residents have also sought assistance from federal MP Kevin Hogan and the NSW Ombudsman.

Ms McCaughey said residents were not seeking compensation or legal action, but simply wanted the original road name restored.

“We’re not trying to cause trouble,” she said.

“We just want Jackybulbin Road to be called Jackybulbin Road again.”

The Northern Rivers Times has asked council when the road name was formally changed, whether consultation occurred, why signage was altered in 2025, whether records exist documenting the decision-making process, and whether council would review the matter following complaints from residents and Yaegl Elders. Its response will be the subject of a story in a future edition of the paper.

Make your way to the marque at Primex in Lismore proudly sponsored by Sunshine Sugar. Enjoy our home-grown sugar in delicious foods made fresh on stage throughout the event21 to 23 May.

Make your way to the marque at Primex in Lismore proudly sponsored by Sunshine Sugar. Enjoy our home-grown sugar in delicious foods made fresh on stage throughout the event21 to 23 May. Grown, Made & Owned here in the NSW Northern Rivers

www.sunshinesugar.com.au

Work to begin on $1.6m upgrade at Maclean District Hospital

By Tim Howard

Major infrastructure upgrades at Maclean District Hospital are set to begin later this month, with a new lift and nurse call system to be installed as part of a $1.6 million investment by the NSW Government.

The works, announced by the Minns Government in September last year, will see the hospital’s ageing internal lift replaced and a new electronic nurse call system installed across the hospital and community health campus.

Northern NSW Local Health District said planning had been undertaken to minimise disruption to patients, staff and visitors while the work is carried out.

The existing lift machinery, which is more than 30 years old, will be replaced in a project worth about $600,000.

Work to remove the old lift and install the new equipment is scheduled to begin on May 23 and is expected to take about three months. At the same time, the health district will install a new $1 million electronic nurse call system designed to improve communication between patients and nursing staff and enhance

patient safety.

To allow the work to proceed safely, temporary changes will be made within the hospital.

Patients from the Acute Care ward on level two will be relocated to level one before work begins, while patients

in the Rehabilitation Ward on level one will temporarily transfer to the rehabilitation unit at Ballina District Hospital. Access to level one will be maintained through the hospital stairwell and an external covered walkway linking the ground floor

and community health building.

While level two is vacant, additional maintenance including repainting of ward areas will also be carried out.

Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park said the investment demonstrated

the government’s commitment to regional health services.

“Essential infrastructure, like an upgraded lift and modern nurse call system, are critical to the day-today delivery of safe, highquality health care to our community,” he said.

Labor spokesperson for Clarence Emily Suvaal said the upgrades would give staff improved systems and facilities to support patient care.

Northern NSW Local Health District chief executive Tracey Maisey thanked patients, staff and visitors for their patience during the work.

“The new lift and the new nurse call system will ensure better functionality across the site and support timely communication between patients and nursing staff, enhancing patient safety and care,” she said.

The NSW Government said the works formed part of a broader program delivering 32 new or upgraded hospitals across the state.

Federal Budget Criticised As Australians ‘Going Backwards’

By Robert Heyward

Federal Member for Page

Kevin Hogan has launched a sharp attack on the Federal Budget, claiming Australians are paying more, working harder and continuing to lose ground financially under the Albanese Government.

Mr Hogan said the Budget delivered higher taxes, greater spending and increased debt while failing to provide a pathway to improving living standards. He argued the Budget confirmed Australians were facing ongoing financial pressure at a time when many households were already struggling with rising costs.

The Shadow Assistant Treasurer said Labor had become the highest-taxing government in Australian history and accused the Government of breaking

promises relating to tax settings and economic policy.

Over 50s living starts here

Mr Hogan claimed Australians were already carrying the burden of higher government spending and broader economic pressures.

“The average Aussie mortgage is over $20,000 a year worse off while they already can’t afford to pay their grocery and energy bills,” he said.

The comments come amid continued debate over household cost pressures, housing affordability and economic management as both major parties position themselves around Budget outcomes.

Mr Hogan also pointed to government spending levels, claiming expenditure remained at its highest point outside of pandemic conditions in four decades. He argued Australians continued

to face economic pain following a series of interest rate increases.

Housing construction also emerged as a key concern in the Budget debate.

Citing Budget papers, Mr Hogan said projections suggested fewer homes would be built than previously expected, raising concerns about housing supply and future rental affordability.

“Labor’s Budget states that 35,000 less homes will be built and rents are going to increase,” Mr Hogan said.

The Federal Government

has maintained that Budget measures are designed to support long-term economic growth, ease cost-of-living pressures and improve housing outcomes.

Kevin Hogan says higher costs, housing pressures and taxation continue to bite

However, debate continues over whether current policies are delivering enough relief for households already under financial strain.

As economic pressures remain front of mind for many families across regional Australia, cost of living and housing affordability are expected to remain central issues in the political debate.

Downsize with confidence at Lincoln Lifestyle Northern Rivers.

Discover relaxed over-50s living, nestled in the peaceful town of Gulmarrad between Yamba and Maclean. Designed with comfort and connection in mind, enjoy brand new low-maintenance homes, feel-good facilities and a secure, welcoming community where neighbours feel more like friends.

Joyce Continues Push For Action Over Lost Super Funds

Federal One Nation Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, has intensified calls for greater accountability and urgent action over the collapse of investmentlinked superannuation funds that left thousands of Australians facing major financial losses.

Mr Joyce has urged Australians to closely examine their superannuation holdings to determine whether they may have exposure to failed investment vehicles including Shield or First Guardian Master Funds, which collapsed last year and left many investors uncertain about the future of their retirement savings.

Speaking during this week’s sitting of Parliament, Mr Joyce renewed pressure on regulators and government agencies while demanding stronger scrutiny of the systems and processes that allowed the collapses to

He said the issue had become even more concerning following reports that hundreds of investors in Lion Property Group had also suffered significant losses.

“As an accountant and

former auditor, it is clear there are serious questions that need answering,” Mr Joyce said.

He outlined a series of concerns surrounding financial licensing approvals, auditing processes, regulatory

oversight and board governance, questioning how such large-scale investment failures were able to occur.

Among the issues raised were who approved financial licences, how compliance checks were

Thousands of Australians still seeking answers after retirement savings vanish

conducted, what due diligence processes were followed and whether sufficient protections existed for investors.

Mr Joyce also questioned the role of regulators, including the Australian Securities and Investments Commission, arguing investors deserve answers after trusting regulated systems designed to safeguard their retirement savings.

ASIC has previously advised that approximately 11,000 investors are known to have invested in good faith into Shield and First Guardian products, including many who placed retirement savings into the schemes. Concerns remain that additional investors may still be unaware they have exposure.

Australians affected by the collapse may be able to seek compensation through the Australian Financial Complaints Authority.

For complaints and information:

• Call AFCA on 1800 931 678

• Lodge a complaint through AFCA

• Additional information is available via Take Your Super Back

Mr Joyce also praised Save Our Super advocate

Melinda Kee, who has been campaigning for affected investors and pushing for government action.

Mr Joyce said he plans to meet with ASIC as efforts continue to seek greater accountability and potential avenues for investor support.

Pickleball Boom Keeps Northern Rivers Seniors Active

By Jeff Gibbs

A fast-growing sport is bringing energy, laughter and connection to over-50s in the Northern Rivers, with pickleball quickly becoming a daily ritual for many local residents.

At Lincoln Lifestyle Northern Rivers in Gulmarrad, early mornings are anything but quiet. From 6.30am, a group of residents can be found on the court, enjoying a game of pickleball while staying active and social.

The sport is one of the fastest growing in Australia, with participation increasing by 42 per cent in the past

year, and around half of all players aged over 56.

Staying Active and Connected

For 72-year-old Lorraine Napper, pickleball has become a key part of daily life since moving into the community.

“Staying active is really important to me,” she said. “Pickleball is a great way to move your body and is good for the brain as well.”

Despite having a strong sporting background, Lorraine only discovered the game after downsizing, highlighting its accessibility for beginners.

Fellow resident Janette McGregor, 67, said the game’s simple rules make

it easy to pick up, while still offering a good physical workout.

“It’s not hard and it’s fun,” she said. “We get to have a hit, giggle and meet new people.”

Building Community Through Sport

Beyond the physical benefits, pickleball is helping strengthen social bonds within the community.

Regular players say the early morning sessions are as much about friendship as fitness, with more residents expressing interest in joining as the group grows.

The welcoming atmosphere has made it easy for newcomers to

get involved, with players encouraging neighbours to give the sport a try.

Expanding Lifestyle Opportunities

The popularity of pickleball comes as Lincoln Lifestyle Northern Rivers continues to expand its facilities, with a $9.2 million Clubhouse and Wellness Centre currently under construction.

Once complete, the precinct will include a covered outdoor pool,

gym, resident lounge, theatre, games room, dining spaces and a range of recreational facilities designed to support both physical activity and social interaction.

Additional features will include a community garden, walking track, BBQ areas and even a dog park, further enhancing the lifestyle offering for residents.

A Growing Trend

The rise of pickleball reflects a broader shift

toward active, connected living among older Australians, particularly in regional communities like the Northern Rivers.

For residents in Gulmarrad, the sport has become more than just a game—it’s a way to stay healthy, meet new people and enjoy life.

And while some players joke about training for the 2032 Olympics, most agree the real goal is simple: staying active and having fun.

Groovin the Moo Cements Lismore’s Event City Status

By Jeff Gibbs

Lismore is continuing to strengthen its reputation as one of regional Australia’s leading events destinations, with Groovin the Moo delivering a major economic and community success for the city over the weekend.

More than 8000 people attended the nationally recognised music festival at Oakes Oval on Saturday, with the event showcasing Lismore’s growing ability to host large-scale national events.

Lismore City Mayor

Steve Krieg said the success of Groovin the Moo reflected Council’s long-term strategy of investing in facilities, partnerships and event infrastructure to attract major events to the region.

“Lismore has always been known as an events hub, but what we are seeing now is the result of intentional planning and investment to ensure we lift that standard to be recognised by major event operators as a city that makes hosting events of a national scale easy,” Mayor Krieg said.

“We are building and activating facilities that can host everything from elite sport to major cultural events and that creates real benefits for our economy, our businesses and our reputation as a regional city that is open for business.”

Council is now working closely with Groovin the Moo organisers Fuzzy to secure a long-term future for the festival in Lismore through a proposed multiyear agreement.

Mayor Krieg said discussions were already

Thousands flock to Oakes Oval as Lismore builds momentum as regional events powerhouse

underway to establish a Memorandum of Understanding between Council and event organisers.

“That process will give both Council and the organisers a clear understanding of how we can continue working together to grow the event in Lismore and ensure it continues to get bigger and better every year,” he said.

Groovin the Moo joins a growing list of nationally significant events recently hosted in Lismore, including the Legends of Cricket match, the Newcastle Jets versus Brisbane Roar A-League fixture and the Rumble on the River Olympic pathway skateboarding event.

Mayor Krieg said these events were delivering significant economic and tourism benefits for

the city while helping strengthen Lismore’s profile nationally.

“These events are helping drive visitation, support local business and strengthen Lismore’s reputation as a regional city capable of hosting major events at the highest level,” he said.

The event also generated substantial local economic activity, with around half of all suppliers involved being based in Lismore and approximately 50 per cent of security staff sourced from across the Northern Rivers.

Local workers also filled bar and event staffing positions across the festival site.

Fuzzy CEO Adelle Robinson described Groovin the Moo Lismore as one of the best events she had worked on in more than 30 years in the industry.

“From the moment I did the venue tour of Oakes Oval it was clear it was going to be a real collaboration between ourselves, the Council and the people of Lismore,” Ms Robinson said.

“That collaboration is what made this show really special.”

Lismore’s major events calendar is expected to continue building momentum through to October, with upcoming events including Norco Primex and Lismore Gemfest expected to attract more than 33,000 visitors combined later this month.

Mayor Krieg said Council remained focused on creating a sustainable pipeline of nationally significant events that continue returning to the city year after year.

Groovin the Moo Lismore

Maclean Show 2026

Yamba Presbyterian Church extensions opened

Congratulations to Al and everyone involved in delivering the upgrades.

to see new police officers choosing to join regional community stations.

New Police Officers join Richmond District

Groovin the Moo made a successful debut in Lismore, with a fantastic turnout at Oakes Oval for one of Australia’s biggest music festivals. The event was a strong boost for our local cafes, businesses and the wider economy. It was great to have a major tourism activity here in the Northern Rivers. Thank you to the Lismore City Council and everyone involved in bringing the festival to our wonderful region.

It was fantastic to attend the official opening of the 2026 Maclean Show. It was another fantastic community event. With plenty of entertainment including a performance by local artist, Maneesha Davis and the Aussie

FMX stunt show. Thank you to all exhibitors, young woman entrants, volunteers, President Robbie Sutherland, Vice Presidents Leigh-Ann Messer and Melissa Hellwig, Secretary Pru Ensby, Treasurer Jane Jesser and the entire

Show Society. Grafton Show 2026

It was great to attend the official opening of the new extensions at the Yamba Presbyterian Church recently. The project will increase the seating capacity to the church and added a new outdoor area for the community.

Eleven new probationary constables have joined the Richmond Police District. Four officers will be based in Lismore, three in Ballina and four in Casino. It is always great

The 2026 Grafton Show is always a fantastic community event. It was great to be amongst the crowd again this year. Thank you to all exhibitors, young woman entrants, volunteers and congratulations to President, Rex Green and the entire Grafton Show Committee for another great show.

Community concerns over Karangi battery proposal I recently met with concerned residents in Karangi regarding the proposed battery energy storage system, which would see a 10-hectare lithium-ion facility built just 200 metres from a key waterway. Residents raised concerns about fire safety, impacts on water and farmland, visual changes to the landscape, ongoing noise, and the limited long-term benefit for the local community. Many in the community also feel there has been a lack of transparency throughout the process. I share these concerns and will be raising the issues directly with the relevant Labor Minister.

New Northern Rivers Traveller Guide Launches

Regional tourism partnership showcases the people, places and spirit of the Northern Rivers

By Robert Heyward

A new publication designed to inspire travellers to explore the Northern Rivers has officially launched, with councils from across the region joining forces to create the inaugural Northern Rivers Traveller Guide.

The new visitor guide has been produced through a partnership between regional councils and Adhere Marketing, with the publication celebrating the landscapes, culture, food, events and unique experiences that define the Northern Rivers.

The guide highlights the region’s spectacular coastlines, world-famous beaches, rainforests, villages, local produce, arts scene and naturebased attractions, encouraging visitors to experience more than just the traditional tourism hotspots.

Developed with tourism representatives from Ballina, Byron Bay, Clarence Valley, Kyogle,

Lismore, Richmond Valley and Tweed councils, the initiative aims to encourage visitors to slow down, stay longer and experience the region more deeply.

The Northern Rivers continues to attract visitors

from around Australia due to its accessibility, natural beauty and distinctive lifestyle, with the region located within easy reach of southeast Queensland and supported by two airports.

The first edition of the

guide will see 50,000 copies distributed across a range of tourism and travel channels. Half the print run has already been inserted into Australian Traveller magazine’s 100 Best Aussie Towns edition, while the

remaining copies will be distributed through Visitor Information Centres, accommodation providers, key attractions and Ballina Byron Gateway Airport.

Destination Lead at Lismore City Council

Karen Hirst said the

publication reflected the pride communities feel across the Northern Rivers region.

“The Northern Rivers is an incredibly special part of Australia, known for its natural beauty, its people, creativity and welcoming spirit,” Ms Hirst said.

Editor of Northern Rivers Traveller and Adhere

Marketing representative

Suzie Bradley said the publication aimed to inspire visitors and locals alike to explore more deeply and discover experiences beyond familiar destinations.

Regional tourism leaders say the collaborative approach behind the publication highlights the strength of partnerships across the Northern Rivers and the shared ambition to grow visitation and economic opportunities across local communities. The publication is expected to become an ongoing platform promoting the diversity and character of the Northern Rivers while helping local businesses connect with visitors.

Lismore Budget Delivers Major Infrastructure Push

By Jeff Gibbs

Lismore City Council

has unveiled a draft $411.3 million Budget for 2026/27, with major investment in infrastructure, flood recovery and regional growth projects set to move into construction across the local government area.

Mayor Steve Krieg said the Budget marked a turning point for the city following years of planning, funding applications and advocacy work aimed at rebuilding and strengthening the region.

“This is a year of delivery for Lismore,” Cr Krieg said.

“After the hard work to secure funding and preparing projects, we are now seeing that translate into real outcomes on the ground.”

The Budget includes $218.4 million in capital investment focused heavily on roads, infrastructure, recovery

and preparedness projects, reflecting priorities consistently raised by the community.

Among the key projects scheduled for delivery are major pavement upgrades on Tregeagle Road, Rous Road, Dunoon Road and James Gibson Road, alongside continued progress on the South Lismore Sewer Treatment Plant Resilience Upgrade.

Council said the extensive infrastructure program had been made possible through record State and Federal Government funding

secured over recent years.

“We’ve worked hard to ensure Lismore receives its fair share,” Cr Krieg said.

“That means we can deliver this critical program of work without placing unnecessary additional burden on ratepayers.”

rate peg, while the freeze on inner CBD business rates will continue as part of efforts to support economic recovery and business confidence.

Council unveils $411 million Budget focused on roads, recovery and regional growth

General rates will rise by 3.1 per cent in line with the State Government

Council also announced several community support measures designed to ease cost-of-living pressures, including free waste vouchers, subsidised access to pools and leisure facilities, and

continued investment in free community programs through libraries and the regional gallery.

“We know there is significant pressure on households, and we’ve been deliberate in protecting access to services and supporting our community where we can,” Cr Krieg said.

The infrastructure pipeline is also expected to support local employment and economic activity, with significant work planned across the entire local government area.

Council says the Budget

aligns closely with its long-term strategic planning framework, which outlines a vision for a population of 60,000 people, 6,500 new jobs and 10,000 flood-free homes across the region.

Lismore City Council also plans to continue strengthening the city’s reputation as a regional events destination through major festivals and community events, including Eat the Street.

“Through focused revenue optimisation and careful cost management in 2025/26, we have built a strong foundation for a practical, fiscally responsible 2026/27 Budget that sets us up for a sustainable future,” Cr Krieg said.

The Draft Budget by Program 2026–2027, Draft Operational Plan, Revenue Policy, Fees and Charges, and Long Term Financial Plan are now on public exhibition until June 10 through the Your Say Lismore consultation portal.

STAR WARS: THE MANDALORIAN AND GROGU

By Jeff Gibbs

The galaxy’s favourite helmeted bounty hunter and tiny Force-sensitive apprentice are heading to the big screen in Star Wars: The Mandalorian And Grogu, arriving in Australian cinemas in 2026. For Star Wars fans across Australia and the Northern Rivers, this marks one of the most anticipated cinema releases of the year.

Directed by Jon Favreau, the film continues the story of bounty hunter Din Djarin and his loyal companion Grogu following the events of the Disney+ series. The movie expands the adventure beyond television and brings the pair into a full-

The Galaxy’s Favourite Duo Heads To The Big Screen

scale cinematic experience.

Leading the cast is Pedro Pascal as Din Djarin, the mysterious Mandalorian warrior whose bond with Grogu became one of Star Wars’ most popular storylines. The film also features Sigourney Weaver, adding another major name to the franchise. Jeremy Allen White joins the galaxy as Rotta the Hutt, while Steve Blum returns as fan-favourite Zeb Orrelios.

The plot sees Din and Grogu navigating a changing galaxy after the Empire’s collapse. Although the New Republic is attempting to restore order, dangerous remnants of Imperial power remain active. Din and Grogu are pulled into new missions

and fresh threats, with action, adventure and emotional moments expected to remain at the centre of the story.

The biggest drawcard remains the relationship between the pair. Over several seasons, audiences watched Din evolve from lone bounty hunter to protective father figure. Meanwhile, Grogu has continued learning both Mandalorian ways and Force abilities. Their unusual partnership remains one of Star Wars’ strongest modern story elements.

Several interesting facts surround the production. This is the first Star Wars theatrical release in years and marks an important return of the franchise to

cinemas. It also reunites Favreau with creative partner Dave Filoni, whose influence helped shape the modern Star Wars universe. Fans can also expect the return of composer Ludwig Göransson's signature music style that became synonymous with The Mandalorian television series.

Early expectations suggest a film balancing spectacular action with heart and humour. If the transition from streaming to cinemas succeeds, The Mandalorian And Grogu could become one of Star Wars’ strongest modern entries.

We rates this 4 starts out of 5

SPECIAL SCREENINGS

POWER BALLAD (M SPARKLING PREVIEW EVENT Thurs: 6:30PM

THURSDAY

THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS (MA15+) CULT VAULT Mon: 6:30PM

FAMILY FILMS

THE MAGIC FARAWAY TREE G) Daily: 1:10PM, 4:20PM

THE SHEEP DETECTIVES (PG) Daily: 10:45AM, 1:10PM, 6:10PM

ALL FILMS

A PRIVATE LIFE M) Daily: 10:40AM, 6:30PM

FINDING EMILY (M NFT Daily: 10:45AM, 3:30PM, 8:40PM FRANZ (MA15+) NFT

Daily except Thurs, Mon: 10:30AM, 5:30PM. Thurs, Mon: 10:30AM, 1:30PM

IN THE GREY MA15+) Daily: 1:10PM, 8:40PM

MICHAEL (PG) Daily except Thurs: 11:00AM, 3:30PM, 6:00PM, 8:30PM. Thurs: 11:00AM, 3:30PM, 8:30PM OBSESSION (MA15+ Daily: 3:15PM, 8:40PM PASSENGER MA15+) NFT Daily: 1:40PM, 3:50PM, 8:40PM PROJECT HAIL MARY M) Daily except Thurs, Mon: 1:15PM

STAR WARS: THE MANDALORIAN AND GROGU M NFT Daily: 10:30AM, 1:00PM, 4:00PM, 6:00PM, 7:00PM

THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA 2 (M) Daily except Thurs, Mon: 11:10AM, 1:50PM, 4:30PM, 7:10PM, 8:10PM. Thurs: 11:10AM, 1:50PM, 4:30PM, 7:10PM, 8:40PM. Mon: 11:10AM, 1:50PM, 4:30PM, 7:10PM THE RICHEST WOMAN IN THE WORLD (M NFT Daily: 10:30AM, 1:00PM, 3:30PM, 6:10PM

22 LAPS M) GERMAN FILM

7:30PM. Sat: 9:45AM, 2:30PM, 5:00PM, 7:30PM

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 What is the capital city of Namibia? (a) Mbabane (b) Gaborone (c) Windhoek (d) Luanda

2 What is the first name of J. R. R. Tolkien? (a) John (b) James (c) Joseph (d) Jonas

3 The Czech Republic is bordered by which country to the west? (a) Serbia (b) Slovakia (c) Hungary (d) Germany

4 Which of the following words is the best description of pot-au-feu? (a) Soup (b) Gravy (c) Stew (d) Pie

5 The word, lupine, is used in relation to which of the following creatures? (a) Wolves (b) Bees (c) Pigs (d) Sharks

6 Geezer Butler is best known as a member of which band? (a) Mötley Crüe (b) Deep Purple (c) Black Sabbath (d) Sex Pistols

Here is a crossword with a di erence, all the letters of the

WEEKLY CROSSWORD

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 COMPLIANT

(a) Not simple

(b) Yielding

(c) Politely flattering

2 INIMICAL

(a) Adverse in effect

(b) Surpassing imitation

(c) Given to wicked action

3 LOGOS

(a) The rational principle that governs and develops the universe

(b) An identifying trademark or symbol

(c) A traditional saying or maxim

4 RECONDITE

(a) Capable of reconciliation

(b) Dealing with abstruse matters

(c) Living in seclusion

5 TRADUCE

(a) To take advantage of unfairly

(b) To slander

(c) To extend across

BEST ON THE BOX

TUESDAY

LEONARD AND HUNGRY PAUL

ABC ENTERTAINS, 8.30pm

Centred on two quiet friends in their 30s who enjoy board games and unremarkable but comfortable lives in suburban Dublin, this uplifting comedy based on Rónán Hession’s 2019 novel is a sweet escape from TV’s usual frantic fare. Narrated by Julia Roberts, the story thrusts its titular introverts out into the world: part-time postal worker Hungry Paul (Laurie Kynaston) attempts to build his social skills, while Leonard (Alex Lawther) seeks emotional connection after the death of his beloved mother. New colleague Shelley (Derry Girls’ JamieLee O’Donnell, above) is the breath of fresh air Leonard’s sheltered life needs. This week, he musters up the courage to ask her to lunch.

FRIDAY, May 22

WEDNESDAY

GUY MONTGOMERY’S GUY MONT SPELLING BEE

ABC TV, 8.35pm

Living in the advent of autocorrect and AI, you might wonder who days. Comedians, that’s who. Logie Award-winning host Guy Montgomery won’t let the written word go quietly, enlisting a roster of famous stand-ups, rising stars and bewildered actors to spell homophones, esoteric scientific terms and names of audience members alike. Brimming with zany set-ups and lightning-fast improv, it’s one of the truest joys on Australian TV. In Wednesday’s chaotic episode, Montgomery and his sidekick Sam Campbell (near right with Montgomery) find out if Rose Matafeo, David O’Doherty or Tim McDonald can topple the carryover champ.

THURSDAY RICK STEIN’S AUSTRALIA

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

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Compass. (PG, R) 10.30 Stu The British Stole. (PG, R) 11.00 Restoration Aust. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 The Assembly. (PGa, R)

for this tasty travelogue, the Englishman is leaving the coast behind and taking in Australian landscapes further inland. After venturing into the Outback last week, Stein heads to New South Wales’ Riverina region on Thursday. He’s keen to see how the area’s floodplains have become a food bowl for the entire nation, stopping by an emu farm, the De Bortoli winery and a “perfect” Italian bakery. It’s a delicious detour that proves there are plenty of treasures beyond the sea.

(5) NBN (8, 80)

1.45 Bad Company. (PGn, R) 2.10 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) 2.55 Restoration Aust. (PG, R) 3.50 Murdoch Mysteries. (PG, R) 4.40 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6am Morning Programs. 8.00 BBC News At Six. 8.30 France 24 English News. 9.00 DD India News Hour. 9.55 Legacy List. (R) 11.10 Making It. (PG, R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Scotland’s Extreme Medics. (Mal, R) 3.00 Nula. 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. H’lights. 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: Hidden Family Secrets. (2021, Mav, R) 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Listen Out For Love. (2022,

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

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

7.30 Gardening Australia. Sophie Thomson meets a horticulturalist.

8.30 Shetland. (Return, Mlv) Calder and Tosh investigate when a woman goes missing with her nine-year-old son.

9.30 Gruen. (PG, R) Wil Anderson and a panel of experts analyse the advertising industry and consumerism.

10.05 Urzila. (Mals, R) Urzila has an odd house guest.

10.30 ABC Late News.

10.50 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R)

11.35 Love Me. (Mdl, R)

1.10 Rage New Music. (MA15+dhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Paul Merton: Driving Amazing Trains. (Premiere)

8.30 China With Ben Fogle. (Premiere) Ben Fogle explores the Great Wall of China.

9.50 Rock Legends: Primal Scream. (PGa)

10.15 SBS World News Late.

10.45 The King. (Mas)

11.40 Babylon Berlin. (MA15+v, R)

1.35 Syndrome E. (Malv, R)

3.35 Great Coastal Railway Journeys. (R) 4.10 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 2.10pm Peter Rabbit. 2.30 Daniel Tiger’s. 2.45 The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 4.05 Andy’s Prehistoric Adv. 4.40 Ariel. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.55 BattleBots. 9.40 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 10.30 Merlin. 11.15 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)

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

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs and the team demonstrate some terri c ideas for the house, garden and the kitchen.

8.00 MOVIE: Ladies In Black. (2018, PGl, R) A young woman learns about life and love while working at a department store in ’50s Sydney. Angourie Rice, Julia Ormond, Rachael Taylor.

10.15 To Be Advised.

12.00 Quacks. (MA15+d) William needs a grim operation.

12.45 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters.

(PG, R) Presented by Dr Harry Cooper.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.

7TWO (62)

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 12. Canterbury Bulldogs v Melbourne Storm.

9.55 NRL Friday Night Footy Post-Match. Post-match coverage and analysis of the NRL game between the Canterbury Bulldogs and Melbourne Storm.

10.45 MOVIE: Rambo: First Blood Part II. (1985, Mlv, R) A Vietnam War veteran rescues POWs. Sylvester Stallone, Richard Crenna.

12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R) Hosted by Ben Shephard.

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)

CruiseAway. 8.00 TV Shop.

6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace.

6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer.

7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney.

7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. (R) Hosted by Neale Whitaker and Andrew Winter.

8.40 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Celebrity panellists compete to see who can remember the most about events of the week.

9.40 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather.

10.40 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (Final, PG) 11.40 10 News+. (R) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R) 6am Morning Programs. 9.30 BBC News At Six. 10.00 France 24 English News. 10.30 The Movie Show. 12.15pm DW The Day. 12.45 Land Of The Giants: Titans Of Tech. 1.35 The Kingdom. 3.00 Bamay. 3.40 BBC News At Ten. 4.10 France 24. 4.40 PBS News. 5.40 Inside The Huddle. 6.10 Over The Black Dot. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30

9.30 NBC Today. Noon House Of Wellness. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 The Great Australian Doorstep. 2.30 Weekender. 3.00 Imagine Holidays Iconic Rail Journeys. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Animal Rescue. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.

11.30 My Favorite Martian. Noon Antiques Downunder. 1.00 The Brokenwood Mysteries.

Antiques Roadshow. 3.30 MOVIE:

Antiques

SBS MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 2.20pm ER. 3.00 QI. 3.30 Would I Lie To You? 4.00 MythBusters. 4.50 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent Down Under. 5.40

9GO! (83) 6am Open The Wall.

Continued. (2014, PG, German) 7.00 Discovering Film. 7.55 The Man Who Knew In nity. (2015, PG) 10.00 Girl America. (2024, M, Czech) 12.05pm Monster. (2023, M) 2.25 Mr. Holmes. (2015, PG) 4.20 The 39 Steps. (1935, PG) 6.00 The Secret Garden. (2020, PG) 7.50 And So It Goes. (2014, M) 9.30 Harold And Maude. (1971, M) 11.15 Up In The Air. (2009, M) 1.15am Transcendence. (2014, M) 3.25 Four’s A Crowd. (2022, M, Spanish) 5.15 Mr. Holmes. (2015, PG)

7MATE (64)

COMEDY (52)

6am Morning Programs. 11.30

Rugby Heaven. 12.30pm MOVIE: Wrath Of The Titans. (2012, M) 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 MOVIE: 10 Things I Hate About You. (1999, PG) 9.35 MOVIE: Sex And The City 2. (2010, MA15+) 12.35am Love Island UK: All Stars. 1.30 The Real Housewives Of Durban. 2.35 Australian Ninja Warrior. 4.30 I Love VIP Pets. 4.50 LEGO Friends: Girls On A Mission.

STARS & PUZZLES

TARGET TIME

T S C

U B N

A

E S Today’s target: 16 words average 22 words good 29+ 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

ASTROLOGY

ARIES (Mar 21 - Apr 19)

You’re in the mood for self-love, romance and/ or friendship, as Venus makes a lovely link to Mars (your ruling planet). So, it’s a wonderful week to get your hair done, buy a fabulous outfit, enjoy an indulgent facial, manicure, pedicure or massage, plus eat delicious food as you socialise with close old friends or exciting bohemian new acquaintances. The weekend stars favour short trips, controversial conversations and local community connections.

TAURUS (Apr 20 - May 20)

The Sun’s spending the last days in your sign (until Thursday) which provides a golden opportunity to fine-tune who you are and where you’re going. And make the most of the next three weeks, as proactive Mars charges through Taurus (until June 29). Explore, experiment and enthuse – here, there and everywhere. Quick smart! Your motto for the moment is from birthday great Bob Dylan (who turns 85 on Sunday): “There is nothing so stable as change.”

GEMINI (May 21 - June 20)

This week Mercury (your patron planet) makes lovely links to Neptune, Pluto and Saturn. So, it’s a wonderful week to throw superficiality and procrastination out the window and, instead, focus on being more creative, profound and productive. The Sun, Mercury and Uranus also hook up in your sign, which encourages you to think outside the box. Be inspired by entertainer Cher (who turns 80 on Wednesday): “If you can’t go straight ahead, go around the corner.”

CANCER (June 21 - July 22)

Have you been burning the midnight oil and now you’re suffering from burnout? Or have you been running around on autopilot, making careless mistakes? This week four planets activate your solitude zone, so slip into hermit Crab mode as you slow down, simplify your life, prune projects or organise a digital detox. Meditation, contemplation and relaxation are a must. You could also receive creative ideas or an important message via a vivid dream.

LEO (July 23 - Aug 22)

It’s your time to shine, as the powerful Sun/ Uranus conjunction favours dazzling dreams and innovative ideas. Plus, mighty Mars (in your career zone) helps you combine dazzling creativity with powerful determination. Use your fertile imagination to help manifest your preferred future via goal setting and a practical plan. Your mantra is from civil rights activist Malcolm X (who was born on May 19, 1925): “The future belongs to those who prepare for it today.”

VIRGO (Aug 23 - Sep 22)

On Monday your ruling planet, Mercury, hooks up with Uranus, so you’re in the mood to question, philosophise, explore and innovate as you throw out the old rule book and try something new, especially at work. Be inspired by music great Bob Dylan (who turns 85 on Sunday): “Gonna change my way of thinking, make myself a different set of rules.” On Thursday, the Sun powers into your career zone, so the next month is your time to really shine and at work.

LIBRA (Sep 23 - Oct 22) Venus (your patron planet) moves into Cancer (in your career zone) and links up with Mars. So, the focus is on being proactive at work as you nurture colleagues, clients and/or customers, and start transforming your professional dreams into robust reality. Plus – with the Sun, Mercury and Uranus linking up in your adventure zone – don’t be afraid to take risks. As birthday great Cher says: “I’ve always taken risks; you have to if you want to get anywhere in life.”

SCORPIO (Oct 23 - Nov 21)

Transformation is the name of the game this week, Scorpio, as the planets push you to rise Phoenix-like from the ashes of a difficult situation. A challenging close relationship has the potential to be reborn into a much more positive partnership. The mid-week Mercury/Pluto trine will also help you release old grudges, let go of the past, forgive and forget, and finally move on. But expect some surprising secrets and unexpected hijinks along the way!

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 - Dec 21)

Mercury and the Sun hook up with Uranus in your partnership zone. So – when it comes to close relationships – it’s time to be creative, attentive, adventurous and generous. And expect the unexpected! Attached Archers – pamper your partner and show them they are still Number One. Unhappily single? You could fall for someone who is way outside your comfort zone. The weekend is wonderful for creative projects, pleasure, leisure, romance and friendship.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 - Jan 19)

With Venus and Jupiter both visiting your relationship zone (and busy Mars moving into your entertainment zone) it’s a wonderful week for partnerships, parties, birthdays, engagements, weddings and anniversaries! So, love, romance, friendship, socialising and celebrating are all favoured as you mix and mingle, socialize and fraternize. Then the positive Mercury/Saturn link (on Friday and Saturday) is good for goal setting, planning and problem-solving.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 - Feb 18) Courtesy of the Sun/Mercury/Uranus links and Mercury trining Pluto (in your sign), the buzz words this week are change and transformation. But don’t worry about trying to change (or control) those around you. Focus on yourself first. Can you be more proactive in relationships, pivot professionally or transform your physical appearance? Your motto is from birthday great, Cher: “The only thing in the world you can change is yourself and that makes all the difference.”

PISCES (Feb 19 - Mar 20) Saturn is now transiting through your self-esteem zone (until 2028), so it’s a good time to be focused, disciplined and patient. But don’t listen to your inner critic, as it tries to undermine your confidence and shake your self-belief! Be inspired by singeractress Cher (who turns 80 on Wednesday): “If you’re waiting for someone to believe in you, you’ll be waiting forever. You must believe in yourself.” On Saturday, share a special dream with a close friend.

Celebrating Northern Rivers Beauty Through The Lens

Competition showcases stunning local landscapes and talented photographers from across the

By Jeff Gibbs

Regional landscapes, hidden gems and spectacular local scenery have taken centre stage after the winners of the Northern Rivers photography competition were officially announced, celebrating both the region’s natural beauty and the talent behind the camera.

Regional Development

Australia Northern Rivers (RDA Northern Rivers) revealed the winning entries after attracting a remarkable response from photographers throughout the region. The competition drew 152 entrants and an impressive 333 individual photographs, highlighting just how passionate Northern Rivers residents are about showcasing the places they call home.

Entries stretched across the entire Northern Rivers footprint, from Fingal Head and Yamba through to Hastings Point and Dunoon. Images also featured a wide variety of iconic and lesserknown locations including Murwillumbah, Byron Bay, Lennox Head, Angourie, New Brighton Beach, Cudgen, Minnie Water and Maclean.The competition highlighted the region’s deep connection with the natural environment, with landscapes and nature scenes accounting for 84 per cent of entries. The remaining photographs focused on people, working life and community events, creating a diverse collection

of imagery that reflects the lifestyle and character of the Northern Rivers. Taking out first prize in the adult category was Renee Trezise with The Other Giant's Causeway, Fingal Head, a striking longexposure image capturing the famous basalt columns at Fingal Head under a soft sunset while Cook Island sat quietly on the horizon. The image earned a $500 prize supplied by Byron Photo

region.

not only local photographic talent but also the stories and environments that make the region unique.

A total prize pool of $1,500 was awarded thanks to support from Byron Photo Magic and Lismore Art &

Magic.

The youth division was won by Harry Gilbert for Glow Worms, Burringbar Tunnel, a magical image using long exposure photography to illuminate the tunnel’s glow worms in vivid blue light. Harry received a $250 prize for his winning entry.RDA Northern Rivers Chair praised both the quality and diversity of the submissions, noting the competition highlighted

Framing, with organisers saying the images will continue helping promote the region and showcase Northern Rivers life to a wider audience. Beyond simply rewarding photographers, the

competition reinforces a powerful message — that some of Australia’s most extraordinary scenery exists right here in the Northern Rivers, often just around the corner.

COALITION OUTLINES PLAN To Restore Living Standards

By Robert Heyward

Federal Member for Page

Kevin Hogan says the Coalition has unveiled a broad policy package aimed at restoring living standards and easing financial pressures facing Australian families, with a focus on tax reform, housing affordability and support for regional communities.

The package includes seven major policy measures that the Coalition says are designed to improve economic conditions, support business investment and strengthen national security.

Mr Hogan said the plan responds to growing concerns around cost-ofliving pressures, housing affordability and economic confidence.

According to the Coalition, the package is intended to address what it describes as declining living standards and financial strain experienced by many Australians in recent years.

Among the headline

measures is a proposed Tax Back Guarantee, which would index income tax

number of homes being built nationally. Supporters argue this could ease

Tax relief, housing and regional support headline new policy push

thresholds to inflation. The Coalition says the move would prevent workers from moving into higher tax brackets due to wage growth linked to inflation.

Housing and migration also feature prominently in the package, with a proposed Migration and Housing Pledge linking migration levels to the

pressure on housing supply and affordability.

Small business operators could also benefit under the Coalition plan, with a proposal to allow immediate write-offs of business assets valued up to $50,000. Advocates say this would encourage investment and productivity growth among small

enterprises.

Other measures include a Future Generations Fund, designed to direct resource sector windfalls toward debt reduction and infrastructure projects, and a Fuel Security Plan aimed at strengthening Australia’s fuel supply resilience.

The policy package also proposes changes to welfare eligibility and increased defence investment through a broader national security strategy.

Mr Hogan said the broader goal is to support families and improve economic opportunity.

“It is about letting Australians keep more of what they earn, restoring the dream of home ownership, backing small business, securing our fuel supplies and putting Australians first,” he said.

The announcement comes as cost-of-living pressures remain a major issue for households across regional Australia, where rising expenses and housing challenges continue to impact families and businesses.

Furry Friends Festival Set To Return To Bangalow

By Jeff Gibbs

Animal lovers from across the Northern Rivers are being invited to enjoy a day of family fun when the annual Furry Friends Festival returns to the Bangalow Showgrounds later this month.

Hosted by Byron Shire Council, the free community event will be held on Saturday 30 May from 8am to 1pm, celebrating pets, community connections and

responsible pet ownership.

Festival organisers say this year’s event promises a packed program featuring dog demonstrations, family activities, entertainment and a market dedicated to everything furry and fourlegged.

Byron Shire Mayor Sarah Ndiaye said the event not only celebrates the joy pets bring to families but also reinforces the responsibilities that come with caring for animals and the local

environment.

“The Furry Friends Festival is all about celebrating the joy pets bring to our lives and the strong sense of community that comes with owning an animal,” Mayor Ndiaye said.

She said responsible pet ownership remained an important message, particularly in a region rich with native wildlife and sensitive environmental areas.

Dog owners are encouraged

Is the fortune-teller right?

Title: Lucy Sullivan is Getting Married

to bring their pets along on leads and head straight to the popular Doggy Arena, which will once again host demonstrations, games and competitions led by local trainers. Activities in the arena are scheduled to begin from 8.30am.

Returning this year is the Paws and Claws Market, featuring around 40 stalls showcasing local veterinarians, dog trainers, animal rehoming groups, pet accessories and services.

Festival organisers say the market will feature a refreshed layout aimed at making the experience easier and more accessible for visitors.

Families attending can also enjoy a range of additional attractions including a free pet-and-owner photo booth, children’s face painting, live entertainment and food and coffee stalls.

The festival has become a popular annual event within the Byron Shire calendar, drawing pet owners and families together while promoting education and responsible ownership.

Dogs are welcome throughout the event but must remain on a lead at all times.

Author: Marion Keyes

Price: $23.75

Distributor: Booktopia

If you want to go back to a time of landline telephones, DVDs and video stores, then this is the novel for you to get your 90s retro on.

Lucy visits a fortune teller with her three co-workers for a bit of a laugh.

But suddenly the laugh dwindles to a nervous chuckle when the other three girls’ readings come true.

Now, Lucy faces her day with extreme nervousness and hope in her heart as the fortuneteller has told her she is getting married.

A slight problem when she hasn’t been in a serious relationship for some time.

Then she meets Gus.

He sweeps her off her feet and makes her start wondering if he is the one she will race down

the aisle to.

Lucy Sullivan is Getting Married is a funny, poignant, relatable (for many of us who lived the single city life either in London or any other major metropolis) where you will want to shout at Lucy for being so stupid, cheer her on when she works things out and cry with her over important decisions she has to make.

Considered one of the most successful Irish novelists, Marian Keyes had studied law and accountancy before writing stories in 1993. She hadn’t wanted to write a novel as it took too long but as of today she has written 10 with Lucy Sullivan is Getting Married being her second book.

Marian lives in Ireland in Dun Laoghaire with her husband Tony.

You can get your copy of Lucy Sullivan is Getting Married through booktopia.com. au

“Leemo has views on just about anything”

um ane , it baffes me why you spend so much time in our kitchen chopping, stirring, taste testing & stuff simply to make ONE meal to eat: once you consume this ‘creation’ you then wash & scrub pots & plates & utensils, put them all away, then wipe down benches & so on. As a most logical feline (‘Leemo Cat’ here) I feel this effort seems rather a fatuous waste of time. I’ll tell you what I do when it comes to MY meals all ‘I’ do is sit & peer fxedly at the EMPTY bowl on my plush blue food mat:within minutes it is replaced with a new bowl & full of my fave treats!! Here’s an invite Mum: you are most welcome to lie down on the foor with me stare at my food bowl any time!! Maybe you can put your human plate beside my bowl, stare at it & see what happens?

Whaddya reckon?’ Mum spoke. ‘Leems, I deduce you’re stoned, have eaten an excess of catnip, been drinking, or simply being derisory: I feel no obligation OR interest in responding to your nonsense so go away ‘cos you are REALLY irritating me right now.’ Eeeek. She’s in ‘one of those’ old lady moods. Hmmm – I need a fxer upper, so I called the Buddies! Hmmm. ‘Treasure’ (cos she’s a girl & knows about such stuff)) reckons Mum has ‘The Menopause.’ ‘Crikey Treasure, is it a serious ailment?’ ‘Yep, ‘Leemo’ it is, and can be refected

in irrational behaviour such as being crabby, bossy, snappy & so on. OMG! ‘Brutus’ spoke up – ‘scuse me you lot.‘The Menopause’ simply means a ‘pause’ between having a bloke friend in the life of an old lady – Gottit?’ ‘Pasqualie’ biffed him & informed him his perception of the female species was that of a dead gnat & to keep his brainless observations to himself! ’ CRIKEY, the ‘Advice to Mum Jane’ session is deteriorating into a fasco. heww ’Fluffy-Bum’ came to the rescue & spoke commandingly. ‘Right, all of you. I know about this stuff ‘cos unbeknown to you all I read prolifcally about anything & everything. Firstly, ‘Mum Jane’ is far too old to be experiencing ‘The Menopause’ which normally occurs around the age range of 51 – 55 years. ‘Mum Jane’ is 76 – GOTTIT? Puzzled looks were directed his way until ‘Pasqualie’ spoke. ‘Fluffs, we all know Mum Jane DOES get pre-occupied a lot & she just maybe kinda forgot to have ‘The Menopause’ at the right age & it has arrived late: we should ask her what’s going on.’ I got her tea & bikkies. ‘Mum, what’s happening, tell us’. She spoke. ‘Well buddies, I’m MOST stressed about a recent ‘rumour’ that a certain church group has issued an edict that Members must dispose of ALL their pets. They also did the same thing in 1964 ‘cos they said pets are ‘spiritually unclean’ & distract Members from family, faith & God.’ To me, loving & caring for other humans & pets & plants & food & stuff is a wonderful uplifting thing to us all. So, let’s start a world-wide ‘PET PROTEST’ about this rumour: are you all with me? Ooooh, unanimous paw raises. ‘OK ‘Fluffs’ you’re in charge – let’s do it!!! Yippee – a Buddies movement will commence. Nitey, Buddies (& Mum Jane)

Letters to the Editor

Have your say in The Northern Rivers Times!

We welcome your feedback, opinions, praise, concerns, and refections 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 verifcation 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 refect those of the publisher, editors, or staff. Letters may be edited for length or clarity. Offensive or defamatory content will not be published

AUSTRALIANS

DESERVE HONESTY

Many Australians voted hoping for relief on cost-of-living pressures, housing affordability and economic stability, yet increasing numbers now feel disappointed and frustrated. Critics argue promises made before the election are not matching the reality people are experiencing at kitchen tables across the country. Whether it is energy policy, migration, housing or household costs, trust in government begins to erode when expectations and outcomes drift apart. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his government need to understand that public confdence is built on transparency and results, not carefully managed messaging. Australians can handle diffcult truths what they struggle with is feeling misled.

D. Rackstraw, Maclean

SAFETY FIRST FOR SENIORS

The terrifying home invasion in Grafton is a wake-up call for everyone. No elderly couple should have to endure masked intruders armed with machetes in their own home. These criminals showed complete disregard for human life and decency. I hope police throw every available resource into fnding those responsible. We also need stronger support for rural and regional policing because too many residents are beginning to feel vulnerable after dark.

P. Halvorsen, Yamba

NO LABOR VOTE FROM ME AGAIN

After watching the direction of the country over recent years, I have reached a

simple conclusion: Labor will not be getting my vote again. I know others will disagree, and that is democracy, but many Australians are feeling squeezed by rising living costs, housing pressures and uncertainty about the future. People vote based on what affects their daily lives, and for me things simply do not feel better. Governments of every persuasion should remember that public support is earned, not guaranteed. Elections are decided one disappointed voter at a time.

H. Whitcombe, Byron Bay

LISMORE CELEBRATES CULTURE WELL

The return of the LisAmore Festival is fantastic news for Lismore. Events like this bring life, tourism and positivity back into towns still rebuilding confdence after diffcult years. Celebrating Italian culture through food, music and family activities reminds us how multicultural the Northern Rivers has become. Credit to the organisers for continuing to invest in community spirit when many regions are struggling fnancially.

R. Bellucci, Alstonville

BEEF WEEK FEATURE LOOKED FANTASTIC

The Beef Week feature was one of the standout sections in the paper. The photography, layouts and overall presentation captured the energy and pride of the cattle industry beautifully. Rural communities are often overlooked by mainstream media, so seeing such a polished and respectful feature devoted to local agriculture was refreshing. The design work throughout the pages was outstanding.

R. Stanhope, Casino

A FRONT COVER TO BE PROUD OF

The front cover design for this edition was absolutely brilliant. Strong imagery, balanced headlines and sharp colour presentation immediately grabbed attention. It looked modern and professional while still refecting the identity of the Northern Rivers. Covers like this encourage people to pick up the paper and actually spend time reading it.

K. Alderidge, Kyogle

BRENDA FEATURE WAS BEAUTIFULLY PRESENTED

The page featuring Brenda was wonderfully designed and illustrated. The layout allowed the story and images to breathe instead of feeling overcrowded. It felt warm, personal and highly professional at the same time. Features like this show how much care now goes into the visual storytelling across the newspaper.

T. Vannock, Suffolk Park REGIONAL JOURNALISM AT ITS BEST

The Beef Week pages looked every bit as polished as a national rural magazine. Excellent photo selection, clever headline placement

and clean design made the feature easy and enjoyable to read. Too often regional farming stories are treated as secondary, but this edition celebrated the industry with real style and respect.

M. Cresswell, Murwillumbah

THE PAPER JUST KEEPS IMPROVING

Between the striking front cover, the Beef Week feature and the beautifully illustrated Brenda page, this edition showed how far the newspaper has progressed visually. The design standards are now exceptional. It feels modern, confdent and highly engaging without losing its strong community character. Credit to everyone involved in production and layout.

L. Weatherstone, Grafton

TOO MUCH TALK, NOT ENOUGH ACTION

The article about Clarence Valley Council’s ongoing governance problems was exhausting to read. Residents are tired of political infghting and personality clashes. Councillors were elected to improve roads, parks and services, not constantly argue among themselves. If the dysfunction has stretched on for nearly a decade, perhaps it is time for stronger intervention or leadership changes. Communities deserve stability and professionalism.

T. Worrall, Maclean

FAMILIES NEED MORE SUPPORT

National Families Week highlights something many households already know — pressure on families is increasing. Rising rents, grocery costs and mental health concerns are leaving parents stretched thin. While awareness campaigns are valuable, governments also need to back them with practical support. Affordable childcare and accessible counselling would make a bigger difference than slogans alone.

J. McInnes, Casino

GOOD TO SEE ROAD SAFETY CONSULTATION

I applaud the NSW Government for asking communities to help shape the next road safety strategy. Country drivers face very different conditions from city motorists, particularly with wildlife, long travel distances and poor road surfaces. Local knowledge matters. Hopefully the consultation results in practical upgrades rather than another glossy report that gathers dust.

A. Cattermole, Bangalow SOUTH MURWILLUMBAH DESERVES BETTER

While planning for a resilient future sounds positive, many food affected residents are probably wondering why these conversations take so long. Four years after devastating foods, some people are still dealing with uncertainty about homes, businesses and land use.

Governments and councils

must move faster because communities cannot live in limbo forever.

D. Fenech, Murwillumbah

THIS PAPER HAS COME A LONG WAY

The transformation of The Northern Rivers Times over time has been remarkable. The layout now feels contemporary, organised and confdent while still maintaining the strong community focus readers value. Each edition looks more polished, and it is obvious considerable effort has gone into improving presentation standards. Regional newspapers can absolutely compete visually with larger city publications when this level of care is applied.

M. Etheridge, Yamba

COMMUNITY VOICES MATTER

The Social Futures advisory panel is an excellent initiative. Too often programs are designed by people who have never experienced housing stress, disability or mental health struggles themselves. Real lived experience brings honesty and practical insight. Northern Rivers communities are full of resilient people whose voices deserve to be heard in decision-making.

L. Trevarrow, Lennox Head HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY NEEDS ENCOURAGEMENT

It was refreshing to read about Hospitality Concierge staff supporting local venues instead of simply policing them. Many pub and club operators are still recovering from diffcult trading conditions over recent years. Guidance and education can achieve far more than penalties alone. A thriving hospitality sector benefts tourism, employment and community life across the Northern Rivers.

C. Vanstone, Ballina

MENUS MAKE THE PAPER FEEL COMPLETE

I really enjoy the menu pages included in the newspaper. They add variety and give readers practical inspiration they can actually use at home. The presentation is excellent too — clear layouts, appetising photos and easy-to-read formatting make the pages feel polished and inviting. It is a clever addition that broadens the paper’s appeal beyond just news.

C. Hartwell, Lennox Head GREAT DESIGN AND DELICIOUS IDEAS

The menu feature looked absolutely fantastic in this edition. The combination of colourful food photography and clean page design made everything stand out beautifully. It felt more like a high-end lifestyle magazine than a regional newspaper insert. Features like this help make the paper more enjoyable for the whole family, not just people reading the news pages.

B. Fenwicke, Byron Bay COUNCILS ARE NOT BUSINESSES

The ongoing debate around councils operating “like a business” misses the point entirely. Businesses exist to generate proft, while councils exist to provide services people rely on every day. Nobody makes money from maintaining parks, libraries or food infrastructure, but communities suffer when those services disappear. Public service should never be reduced to spreadsheets alone.

E. Sandilands, Grafton

SMART DESIGN HELPS LOCAL BUSINESS

I particularly noticed how well the advertisements blended with the editorial layout without overwhelming the pages. The balance between strong visuals and readability has improved enormously over recent years. Clever advertising presentation benefts both readers and local businesses because people are far more likely to actually notice the promotions.

G. Treadwell, Lismore

LEEMO ALWAYS FINDS THE FUNNY SIDE

Leemo’s column continues to be one of the frst things I read every edition. In a world overfowing with bad news and political arguments, his observations bring humour and warmth without feeling forced. The best part is how relatable the stories are for everyday Northern Rivers readers. We all know someone just like the characters he describes.

P. Ravenscroft, Alstonville

A TRUE LOCAL CHARACTER

Leemo has become part of the identity of this newspaper. His mix of wit, sarcasm and old-fashioned storytelling captures the personality of regional Australia beautifully. Some columnists try too hard to be clever, but Leemo’s humour feels natural and authentic. It is refreshing to read something that simply aims to entertain people for a few

minutes.

D. Kinsella, Evans Head

GREAT TO SEE LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES

The range of courses offered through Byron Community College is impressive. From welding to watercolour painting, these programs show learning is not limited to universities or young people. Community education helps people reconnect socially, develop skills and sometimes even start new careers. Regional areas beneft enormously when adult education remains accessible and affordable.

M. Quillinan, Mullumbimby

COUNCIL MUST COME CLEAN

Cr Clancy is right to ask for honesty before Clarence Valley Council can move forward. Residents are tired of hearing about confdential reports, complaints and processes while basic trust keeps eroding. If mistakes were made, admit them openly and fx the culture.

B. Larkham, Iluka

ENOUGH WITH THE INFIGHTING

Nearly a decade of governance wars is not good enough. Ratepayers need roads, parks, libraries and services, not endless arguments over who said what in confdential meetings. Councillors and senior staff should either work together professionally or make way for people who can.

K. Ellery, Grafton CONTINUED IMPROVEMENT SHOWS

You can clearly see the steady development of the newspaper from edition to edition. The production values have lifted dramatically, especially with feature pages and advertising integration. It no longer feels like a small regional paper trying to keep up — it feels like a confdent publication setting its own standard for community journalism.

J. Mowbray, Goonellabah

CLANCY RAISES FAIR QUESTIONS

I found Cr Clancy’s comments reasonable, especially around councillors not receiving enough information before major decisions are made. Whether people agree with him or not, elected representatives must be properly informed. Otherwise, the public is left wondering who is really making the decisions at council.

M. Talloway, Maclean

CODE COMPLAINTS LOOK WEAPONISED

The long-running Code of Conduct disputes sound like they have become a political weapon rather than a tool for better behaviour. Serious misconduct should be investigated, but minor complaints chewing up time and money only deepen division. Clarence Valley Council needs maturity, not more paperwork warfare.

D. Bramwell, Yamba

ADVERTISEMENTS THAT ACTUALLY STAND OUT

The advertising design throughout this edition looks polished and modern. Too many newspapers clutter pages with overcrowded ads, but these layouts were clean, colourful and easy to read. Some of the fullpage promotions looked every bit as professional as metropolitan publications. Local businesses should be thrilled with that level of presentation.

R. Dunscombe, Byron Bay

STAFF DESERVE SOME CREDIT TOO

While governance concerns matter, I was pleased Cr Clancy acknowledged that most council staff do a good day’s work. The public debate often paints the whole organisation as broken, which is unfair to outdoor crews, admin staff and service workers doing their jobs under constant criticism.

S. Penwarden, Ballina

COUNCIL MUST COME CLEAN

Cr Clancy is right to ask for honesty before Clarence Valley Council can move

forward. Residents are tired of hearing about confdential reports, complaints and processes while basic trust keeps eroding. If mistakes were made, admit them openly and fx the culture.

B. Larkham, Iluka

ENOUGH WITH THE INFIGHTING

Nearly a decade of governance wars is not good enough. Ratepayers need roads, parks, libraries and services, not endless arguments over who said what in confdential meetings. Councillors and senior staff should either work together professionally or make way for people who can.

K. Ellery, Grafton CLANCY RAISES FAIR QUESTIONS

I found Cr Clancy’s comments reasonable, especially around councillors not receiving enough information before major decisions are made. Whether people agree with him or not, elected representatives must be properly informed. Otherwise, the public is left wondering who is really making the decisions at council.

M. Talloway, Maclean CODE COMPLAINTS LOOK WEAPONISED

The long-running Code of Conduct disputes sound like they have become a political weapon rather than a tool for better behaviour. Serious misconduct should be investigated, but minor complaints chewing up time and money only deepen division. Clarence Valley Council needs maturity, not more paperwork warfare.

D. Bramwell, Casino

STAFF DESERVE SOME CREDIT TOO

While governance concerns matter, I was pleased Cr Clancy acknowledged that most council staff do a good day’s work. The public debate often paints the whole organisation as broken, which is unfair to outdoor crews, admin staff and service workers doing their jobs under constant criticism.

S. Penwarden, Ballina

The sum of our flaws…

by Nigel Dawe

I’M not sure if it’s more a reflection of something deep within the heart of who we are as creatures, or if it’s just the English language, and even whether or not it translates into the 7,000 other languages the human speaks; but it both fascinates and amuses me that we initially ‘crack on’ to those we like, and we then ‘break up’ with them when it’s all over.

As if the concept of breakage, or fracturing in some way was somehow far more bookending, if not central to how we interact with others than we remotely realise – in the Western world anyway. Though one of my favourite lines by the French poet Charles Baudelaire (and I recited it back to him above his grave in Paris, apologising that I only knew it in English), but he once chimed: “Everything breaks, love and beauty until Forgetfulness collects them in his basket and takes them back to eternity.”

The American writer, Augusten Burroughs once confessed, “I, myself, am made entirely of flaws, stitched together with good intentions.” And, as if he were paraphrasing the quintessential essence of the Japanese concept of “kintsugi”, or the technique of “golden joinery” whereby broken tea bowls and ceramics are repaired using powdered gold mixed with lacquer. The result of which is meant to not so much conceal the breakage, but to highlight the fracturing in such a way that emphasises new found beauty, rather than just merely the damage incurred to a pre-existing form.

By adopting a more

kintsugi approach to life, albeit having a greater acceptance of things that are not flawlessly perfect, we align ourselves to living in such a way that releases us from the pressure of having to expect perfection in everything we see, say, do and deal with. We are greatly reduced when we eliminate the potential for a different appreciation of flaws and blemishes. Or as Sarah Vowell once noted, “We are flawed creatures, all of us. Some of us think that means we should fix our flaws. But get rid of my flaws and there would be no me left.”

A quirk of the modern western mind is that it seems to be utterly fixated and obsessed with ‘what’s wrong’ with things, rather than being appreciative of all the things that are ‘right’ with them. Or how things that might otherwise be considered broken or damaged, could actually be regarded as all the more unique and appealing because of such blemishes. “All creatures are flawed,” once said Marguerite Young, “but out of the flaw may come the universe.” Not to mention every possible ‘breakthrough’ and stride forward, that we could ever imagine. Nothing is more interconnecting, beautiful or emboldening than the acceptance afforded by each of us in regards to our own flaws, and the flaws of others.

As Jermone K. Jerome once suggested, “It is in our faults and failings, not in our virtues, that we touch one another and find sympathy. We differ widely enough in our nobler qualities. It is in our follies that we are at one.”

MAJOR AI BREAKTHROUGH COULD TURN Bone Scans Into Heart Disease Detectors

By Jeff Gibbs

A major medical breakthrough by Australian researchers could transform how heart disease is detected, with artificial intelligence now showing the potential to identify early warning signs from routine bone scans already performed on hundreds of thousands of Australians each year.

Researchers led by Professor Joshua Lewis from Edith Cowan University, working with an international team, have demonstrated that AI can successfully detect a key marker of cardiovascular disease from DEXA bone density scans — technology currently used to assess bone health.

The innovation focuses on identifying abdominal aortic calcification (AAC), a build-up of calcium

within the abdominal aorta that can signal increased risk of heart attack and stroke. AAC often develops earlier than calcification found in coronary arteries, providing a valuable opportunity to detect cardiovascular problems before symptoms appear.

Until now, identifying AAC on DEXA lateral spine scans required specialist review — a process that can be expensive, time-consuming and difficult to scale across large patient groups.

Professor Lewis said the new AI system dramatically changes what can be achieved with scans already widely used throughout Australia.

“Our approach is a stateof-the-art, AI-powered solution that automatically detects and quantifies AAC on lateral spine images captured by the DEXA machines used to assess people’s bone health,” he said.

The development means that a single scan traditionally used to evaluate bone density could soon provide insights into

Existing scans may soon

reveal hidden heart risks in seconds

blood vessel health as well.

“This technique means a widely used scan can now also assess blood vessel health in a matter of seconds,” Professor Lewis said.

Around 700,000

Australians undergo DEXA bone scans annually, creating the possibility of a large-scale, low-cost screening opportunity for cardiovascular risk once the technology becomes widely available.

The research was recently published in the Journal of American College of Cardiology: Advances and researchers are now moving quickly to translate the findings into clinical practice.

The project received support through the Heart Foundation’s Catalyst

Partnership Program in 2025, with the team now seeking further funding and support to accelerate patient access.

Heart Foundation

Chief Medical Advisor

Professor Garry Jennings said the work highlighted Australia's strength in medical research.

“Australia is home to some of the leading minds in cardiovascular research and this work is one example of how Heart Foundation donors enable us to fund life-changing research,” he said.

Researchers believe the technology could become an important new tool in preventive medicine, helping doctors identify risks sooner and potentially reducing the number of serious cardiovascular events.

NATIONAL PALLIATIVE CARE WEEK ENCOURAGES Australians To Ask The Big Questions

By Jeff Gibbs

Australians are being encouraged to start important conversations about palliative and endof-life care as National Palliative Care Week begins, with organisers hoping to break down misconceptions and encourage earlier

discussions about future care choices.

Running throughout the week under the theme “Getting to the heart of it: Big Questions. Real Answers,” the national campaign aims to encourage Australians to ask questions, seek trusted information and talk openly about what matters most.

Palliative Care Australia

Interim Chief Executive Officer Simon Waring said many people still misunderstand the role of palliative care and wrongly assume it is only provided in the final days of life.

“Too many Australians still think palliative care is only for the very end of life, when in reality it can begin much earlier and sit alongside other treatments,” Mr Waring said.

Health professionals say palliative care focuses on improving quality of life for people living with serious or life-limiting

illnesses by providing support for physical, emotional and practical needs. It also offers assistance to families, carers and loved ones throughout difficult periods.

According to campaign figures, more than 450 Australians die each day from life-limiting illnesses and could benefit from palliative care services. Despite this, many people either receive care too late or miss out entirely.

Mr Waring said improving awareness and encouraging earlier conversations can help ensure people receive care aligned with their wishes and values.

“This year we are encouraging Australians to ask the big questions: What matters most to me? What care would help me live well? Who needs to know my wishes? And what support is available for the people around me?” he said.

The campaign also highlights the need for equitable access to palliative care services regardless of location, age, diagnosis or background. Organisers say access should not depend on postcode or personal circumstances.

Throughout the week, communities across Australia will host events, public forums, educational sessions and awareness activities. Landmark buildings are expected to be illuminated, while community groups and workplaces are also being encouraged to take part.

Australians are also being invited to wear an orange heart — a symbol of palliative care support — and use the week as an opportunity to start conversations with family and friends.

For many families, experts say these discussions can provide clarity and comfort long before difficult decisions need to be made.

Property Industry Warns Tax Changes Could Deepen Housing Crisis

Negative gearing overhaul sparks fears of rising rents and fewer homes

By Jeff Gibbs

Australia’s property industry has warned proposed changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax concessions could worsen the nation’s housing shortage, reduce new home construction and place additional pressure on renters.

The concerns follow major housing tax reforms unveiled in the 2026 Federal Budget, with the Federal Government planning to limit negative gearing benefits to newly built homes from July 2027 while replacing the current 50 per cent capital gains

tax discount with a new inflation indexation system.

Industry groups argue the changes could discourage property investment at a time when Australia is already struggling to meet housing demand.

The reforms are expected to generate billions of dollars in additional revenue for the Government over coming years, however property and construction organisations fear the long-term impacts could outweigh any short-term gains.

Economic modelling cited by industry representatives predicts fewer homes may be built over the next

decade due to a decline in investor activity, potentially tightening rental supply even further.

The Government maintains the reforms are designed to improve housing affordability for first-home buyers and reduce competition from investors in the established housing market.

Under the proposed changes, investors purchasing existing homes after July 2027 would no longer be able to claim negative gearing tax benefits, although newly built homes would remain eligible.

Existing investment

Social Futures Calls for Fairer Housing Investment

Northern Rivers housing crisis fuels push for more social homes and income support

By Jeff Gibbs

Social Futures is calling on the Federal Government to increase investment in social housing and raise income support payments as housing pressures continue to grow across the Northern Rivers.

The organisation says rising rents, low housing supply and increasing living costs are pushing more people into housing stress and homelessness.

Chief Executive Officer Tony Davies

Social Futures wants the Housing Australia Future Fund increased from $10 billion to $20 billion to help grow social housing to six per cent of Australia’s housing stock over time.

Chief Executive Officer Tony Davies said the Northern Rivers continued to experience severe

properties are expected to be grandfathered under the new rules, meaning current investors would not be directly impacted.

Property industry leaders say investor confidence has already been shaken, with reports emerging of landlords selling rental properties ahead of the proposed reforms.

Recent market activity has shown a noticeable increase in rental properties being listed for sale as investors react to growing uncertainty surrounding the Budget measures.

Critics of the reforms argue the policy could ultimately hurt renters

while rising rents and living costs are pushing more people into crisis,” Mr Davies said.

The organisation is also advocating for increases to JobSeeker, Youth Allowance and related payments to help people struggling to afford

the most by reducing the supply of rental properties and slowing housing construction.

Supporters, however, say the changes are necessary to improve access to home ownership for younger Australians and reduce speculative investment in the property market.

Treasury forecasts reportedly predict a modest slowdown in house price growth while allowing more Australians to enter the housing market over time.

The debate over negative gearing and capital gains tax remains one of the most politically sensitive housing

essentials.

Mr Davies said stronger income support combined with increased social housing investment would help reduce homelessness and improve long-term community wellbeing.

Social Futures said access to stable housing and

the Northern Rivers

housing shortages and growing financial hardship.

“In regions like the Northern Rivers, we continue to see housing demand far exceed supply,

issues in Australia, with economists, investors and housing advocates sharply divided over the likely impact of the reforms.

Housing affordability continues to dominate national political discussion as governments face growing pressure to address rising rents, low vacancy rates and increasing construction costs.

The property sector says maintaining investor confidence will be critical if Australia is to meet ambitious housing supply targets over the coming decade.

adequate income plays a major role in mental health, employment opportunities and family stability.

The organisation will continue working with governments and sector partners to support practical housing solutions for regional communities.

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

INVESTORS WARNED OVER

Budget reforms spark concern for small investors and business owners

By Jeff Gibbs

Australian investors and small business owners are assessing the impact of major capital gains tax changes announced in the 2026 Federal Budget, with growing concerns the reforms could discourage investment, reduce entrepreneurship and weaken long-term wealth creation across the economy.

The Federal Government has confirmed it will replace the current 50 per cent capital gains tax discount with a new inflation-based indexation system from July 2027, marking one of the most significant tax policy changes in decades.

Under the new system, individuals will no longer automatically receive the flat 50 per cent discount on assets held for more than 12 months. Instead, capital gains will be adjusted according to inflation before tax is applied.

The Government says the reforms are designed to improve fairness within the tax system and reduce concessions that disproportionately benefit wealthier Australians.

Treasury forecasts suggest the changes will increase government revenue while helping ease pressure on housing affordability by reducing speculative investment activity across the property market.

However, financial advisers, investors and business groups warn the reforms could have unintended consequences for everyday Australians attempting to build financial security and long-term wealth.

Share market investors are among those expected to feel the impact, particularly Australians who rely on long-term investments outside superannuation to help fund retirement and future financial independence.

Small business owners

have also raised concerns about how the changes may affect succession planning, business sales and investment confidence.

Business groups argue the existing capital gains tax discount has historically encouraged entrepreneurship, innovation and investment in growing Australian businesses.

Critics of the reforms say increasing taxes on investment returns risks discouraging Australians from taking financial risks, particularly in areas such as start-up businesses, regional enterprises and long-term investment strategies.

Financial experts also warn the inflationindexation model could create additional complexity for taxpayers, requiring more detailed recordkeeping, valuation tracking and long-term calculations.

Some analysts believe the changes may discourage Australians from investing in shares, property and small businesses if future after-tax returns become less attractive.

There are also concerns the reforms could disproportionately impact middle-income Australians rather than wealthy investors, particularly those attempting to build wealth gradually through investment and business ownership.

Industry representatives argue Australia already faces challenges attracting investment capital and supporting productivity growth, with fears the new settings may further weaken competitiveness.

Some business leaders warn investors could increasingly shift capital into lower-risk assets or overseas markets if Australia becomes less attractive for long-term

investment. Accountants and financial planners say uncertainty surrounding the proposed changes is already prompting investors and business owners to reassess future plans and strategies.

Many Australians approaching retirement are also closely monitoring the reforms, particularly those relying on investment portfolios outside compulsory superannuation arrangements to support their future lifestyle.

For family-owned businesses, the changes may influence decisions around succession planning, expansion and business restructuring over the coming years.

Some industry groups believe the reforms could particularly affect regional Australia, where small businesses and family enterprises play a critical role in local employment and economic activity.

At the same time, supporters of the reforms argue the current system unfairly advantages wealthier asset holders and contributes to widening inequality.

The Government maintains the new approach modernises the tax system while still recognising inflationary gains on longterm investments.

Supporters also argue reducing tax concessions tied to investment assets could help improve affordability in sectors such

CPA Australia Warns Budget Tax Changes Could Hurt Investment

Accounting body says new CGT reforms risk punishing aspiration and entrepreneurship

By Jeff Gibbs

CPA Australia has warned the Federal Government’s proposed capital gains tax reforms could discourage investment, weaken productivity and place greater financial pressure on middle-income Australians and small business owners.

The concerns follow the Government’s announcement that the existing 50 per cent capital gains tax discount will be replaced with a new inflation-based indexation model from July 2027.

housing by reducing speculative market activity.

The reforms are expected to apply to assets purchased after the implementation date, while existing holdings are likely to remain protected under transitional arrangements.

Economists remain divided on the likely long-term impact, with some predicting reduced speculative investment while others fear slower economic growth, lower productivity and reduced business confidence.

Several economic analysts say maintaining strong private investment will remain essential if Australia is to improve productivity, create jobs and remain internationally competitive.

The changes have reignited debate over Australia’s broader tax system and the balance between encouraging investment, improving affordability and maintaining fairness across the economy.

Financial advisers are encouraging investors and business owners to seek professional advice ahead of the proposed changes, particularly those considering major investment, retirement or succession decisions in coming years.

The Budget measures remain subject to legislation and ongoing political debate before they can formally take effect.

CPA Australia Tax Lead Jenny Wong said the changes risk undermining entrepreneurship and reducing incentives for Australians to invest in businesses and long-term wealth creation.

“This is not tax reform –it’s a revenue measure that shifts more of the burden onto middle Australia,” Ms Wong said.

“For anyone looking to invest, grow a business or take on risk, the message is clear – the government will take at least 30 per cent, regardless of the outcome.”

CPA Australia argues the reforms could

disproportionately impact ordinary investors, younger Australians and small business operators attempting to build financial security.

The accounting body also warned the new system may increase complexity within the tax system, favouring wealthier investors with greater access to financial advice and restructuring options.

Ms Wong said the changes could reduce Australia’s competitiveness at a time when global markets are competing strongly for investment capital and entrepreneurial talent.

“Productivity depends on investment – particularly in higher-growth areas like start-ups, innovation and expanding businesses,” she said.

CPA Australia believes the reforms risk discouraging investment in shares, businesses and other long-term assets while increasing uncertainty across the broader economy.

The proposed changes remain subject to legislation and ongoing political debate before they can formally take effect.

A dozen women in ag join NFF’s leadership programs

By Ian Rogers

Twelve ambitious women have been welcomed into the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) Diversity in Agriculture Leadership Program.

The program directly addresses the under representation of women in agriculture’s leadership ranks, through targeted mentoring and networking.

NFF CEO and former program mentor, Mike Guerin, congratulated the 2026 cohort.

“We are so excited to see these talented women thrive in this flagship program,” Mr Guerin said.

“The NFF has set a goal to double the number of women in agriculture’s

leadership ranks by 2030.

“These 12 women are already assets to the agriculture industry, and, commendably, they’ve now committed to growing their leadership skills even further.

“Furthermore, the program’s success is made possible through the support of 22 partners who commit to making meaningful change to diversity in their workplaces.”

2026 Diversity in Agriculture Leadership

cohort:

- Dr. Renata Grunennvaldt, Towen Mountain, QLD

- Sam Pritchard, Southbank, VIC

- Toni Nugent, Wagga Wagga, NSW

- Kylie Stretton, Basalt, QLD

- Susan King, Katherine, NT

- Roya Khalil, Caulfield North, VIC

- Sam Baldock, Spreyton, TAS

- Julie Petty, Mt Walker, QLD

- Kathleen Allan, Bowning, NSW

- Stacey Rae, Monto, QLD

- Amy Richards, Aldinga Beach, SA

- Sam Dobson, Whitemore, TAS

The cohort will take part in a three-day leadership retreat in Canberra, be matched with an industryleading mentor, and work towards personal and professional goals under the guidance of the Diversity in Agriculture Leadership team.

Roya Khalil, part of this year’s cohort, said she was thrilled to be part of a program that’s leading the equality charge.

“I firmly believe that diversity is essential to making [agriculture] stronger, more productive, innovative, inclusive, and resilient.”

Fellow participant Kathleen Allen said: “I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to learn alongside and connect with other women who are helping shape the future of Australian agriculture.”

For more information, visit the Diversity in Agricultural Leadership website.

WARWICK LIVESTOCK MARKET FIRMS AS NUMBERS EASE

Buyer confidence lifts cattle, sheep and lamb markets despite lower yardings

Reduced yardings and renewed buyer confidence helped strengthen livestock markets across Warwick this week, with cattle holding firm and sheep and lamb prices recording strong gains as producers responded cautiously to ongoing dry conditions and patchy rainfall forecasts.

A total of 1244 head of cattle and 1389 head of sheep and lambs were yarded for the week ending May 15, 2026. While numbers eased noticeably across both sectors, competition from

processors, exporters and restockers remained solid, supporting stronger overall returns.

Cattle producers appeared to be slowing turn-off rates amid hopes of further rainfall across southern Queensland and northern New South Wales, helping tighten supply and stabilise values.

Steers averaged 395.1c/ kg and topped at 450c/ kg, returning between $2123.17 and $3014.

Feeder steers continued to attract strong support, averaging 416.1c/kg and reaching 466.2c/kg, with returns from $1547.52 to $2247.

Heifers averaged 332.5c/

kg and sold to 421c/ kg, while feeder heifers averaged the same rate and topped at 440c/kg, returning up to $1903.

Cow prices improved on recent weeks, averaging 284.5c/kg and topping at 368.2c/kg, while bulls reached 410.2c/kg and sold to a top return of $4194.65.

Young cattle categories also remained firm. Vealer steers averaged 378.3c/ kg and topped at 480c/ kg, while yearling steers averaged 411.9c/kg and sold to 479.2c/kg.

The overall cattle yarding averaged $1258.40 per head across the sale.

Sheep and lamb markets

produced the strongest gains of the week, with reduced numbers and strong processor demand driving prices significantly higher.

Lambs topped at $336 and averaged $216.94 per head, lifting $42 on the previous week. Hoggets rose sharply, averaging $225.68 and improving by $45 per head, while wethers jumped $60 to average $191.31.

Ewes also strengthened considerably, averaging $181.65 and topping at $240.

The yarding was split approximately 60 per cent lambs and 40 per cent mutton, with agents noting dry seasonal conditions

were still forcing many producers to present lighter-weight stock.

Among the leading sales, Tom and Tracie Cooper sold Dorset lambs weighing 67kg to Thomas Foods for $336, while Sarna Pty Ltd sold crossbred lambs weighing 54.2kg to Thomas Foods for $289.

Schonrock Grazing achieved $300 for 56.6kg crossbred lambs sold to Thomas Foods and $260 for hoggets weighing 72.6kg sold to Fletcher International.

Linview Ag sold 48.3kg Australian White lambs to Nutrien Toowoomba for $272, while John and Marion Skinner sold

Dorset lambs weighing 52.5kg to Leslie Lamb for $269.

McLean Farms sold lighter Dorper lambs to restockers, with 33kg lambs making $160. Pig numbers remained dominated by store stock, with sows selling from $95 to $255 and porkers making between $165 and $270.

Poultry numbers also continued to increase, with hens, pullets and guinea fowl all selling to $27.50, while chicks and ducklings reached $37.50. By The Northern Rivers Rural News Desk

NRLX PRIME CATTLE SALE TOPS $1.28 MILLION

Steers lead the market as 1,125 head sell at Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange

The Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange Prime Cattle Sale on Wednesday, 13 May 2026, produced a strong yarding of 1,125 head across 477 lots, returning a total sale value of $1,280,049. The sale averaged

344.4c/kg, with prices ranging from 20c/kg to a top of 496.2c/kg. Total weight through the market reached 371,660kg, while the average value per head was $1,137.82.

Steers delivered the strongest overall contribution, with 424 head across 175 lots selling from 192.2c/kg to 496.2c/ kg and averaging 425.5c/ kg. The section returned

$435,271.31, with values ranging from $182.59 to $2,251.13, averaging $1,026.58.

Cows were also heavily represented, with 334 head across 152 lots.

Prices ranged from 20c/ kg to 360.2c/kg, averaging 308.8c/kg. The cow section returned the highest category value of the day at $507,084.72, with an average return of $1,518.22

per head.

Heifers totalled 325 head across 124 lots, selling from 142.2c/kg to 440c/ kg and averaging 315c/ kg. The section generated $266,508.49, with values ranging from $171 to $2,407.86.

Bulls numbered 18 head across 14 lots, averaging 332c/kg and topping at 364.2c/kg. The bull section

returned $37,155.44, with an average value of $2,064.19.

Bullocks were limited to 10 head across three lots, but sold strongly, averaging 387.5c/kg and topping at 402.2c/kg. They returned $22,416.07, averaging $2,241.61 per head.

Vealer bulls totalled 13 head across eight lots, averaging 329.5c/kg

and reaching 424.2c/kg, while one yearling sold for 282.2c/kg, returning $1,199.35.

Overall, the sale showed solid buyer demand, particularly for steers, cows and better-finished lines, with the prime cattle market delivering a strong result for vendors.

By The Northern Rivers Rural News Desk

Cane Harvest Begins Under Cloud of Rising Costs

Queensland growers prepare for crushing season amid fuel and fertiliser fears

By Ian Rogers

Queensland’s 2026 sugarcane crushing season will officially begin next week, with harvesters preparing to roll across the state’s far north as growers brace for what industry leaders warn could be one of the toughest seasons in recent years.

The annual seven-month harvest will commence on the Tablelands, with the first cane expected to go through the rollers at MSF’s Arriga mill on May 18.

Tully Sugar will follow shortly after, beginning its crush on May 26 — around three weeks earlier than usual due to expectations of a larger crop.

The remainder of Queensland’s sugar industry, stretching from Cairns to the Gold Coast, is expected to begin

harvesting operations progressively throughout June.

Seasonal conditions across most growing regions have been generally favourable, with approximately 29 million tonnes of cane forecast to be harvested and processed before the season concludes in December.

Despite the promising crop outlook, growers are facing mounting financial pressure from falling sugar prices, rising diesel costs and ongoing concerns about fuel and fertiliser availability.

CANEGROWERS

Chairman Owen Menkens said the industry was entering the season under considerable strain.

“It’s not too often that the stars align and we get the holy trinity – good crop, good weather and a good price. Sadly, this year is no different,” Mr Menkens

said.

“The crop is looking promising and, so far, conditions in the paddock have been favourable, but the sugar price is really dragging growers down.”

Mr Menkens said Australian sugar producers remain highly exposed to fluctuations in global sugar markets, unlike many overseas competitors who receive greater market protections.

“Australian producers are one of the few sugar industries in the world fully exposed to the global sugar price,” he said.

“We're directly impacted

by supply and demand fluctuations and soaring input costs.”

Fuel supply uncertainty has become another major concern heading into the harvest, with growers expected to require almost 100 million litres of diesel between now and the end of the year.

Most of the fuel demand will be tied to harvesting, planting and transporting cane to mills across Queensland.

A recent CANEGROWERS survey found growers statewide held less than four million litres of fuel in reserve

during April, while one in ten growers reported difficulties sourcing diesel supplies in recent weeks.

Fertiliser availability is also causing anxiety within the industry, with around 130,000 tonnes of urea expected to be needed before December amid continued uncertainty around supply chains.

Mr Menkens said the rising diesel price alone was expected to cut approximately $150 million from grower profitability this season.

“It’s an anxious time for growers,” he said.

“CANEGROWERS has

been working directly with the fuel and fertiliser sectors, who have assured us supply is on the way.”

Mr Menkens said the industry had shown strong cooperation despite the challenges and would need to continue working together throughout the season.

“The challenges we have faced this year are unprecedented, but the industry has pulled together to get ready for harvest,” he said.

“That level of cooperation will be critical to getting us through the season.”

Australian horticulture sector responds to Federal Budget

By Ian Rogers

Growers back productivity measures while labour and cost concerns linger

Australia’s horticulture sector has welcomed several measures in the 2026–27 Federal Budget, while warning major concerns remain around labour shortages and rising costs that continue to place pressure on growers.

The National Farmers’ Federation Horticulture Council says the Budget delivers progress on a number of long-standing priorities, particularly around tax settings, supply chain resilience and

productivity reforms.

However, industry leaders say uncertainty surrounding workforce arrangements and ongoing cost pressures could continue to challenge horticultural businesses, especially in regional Australia.

NFF Horticulture Council Chair Jolyon Burnett said the Budget contained several practical outcomes that would help support farming businesses.

“Last night’s Budget includes a number of practical measures that will help ease pressure on farm businesses and strengthen

Australia’s food and fibre supply chains,” Mr Burnett said.

Among the measures welcomed by the Council was confirmation that primary production income would remain exempt from the new minimum tax on discretionary trusts, alongside the permanent extension of the instant asset write-off.

The Council also welcomed the Government’s commitment to improving productivity and reducing regulatory burden, saying compliance costs had become increasingly difficult

for growers, particularly smaller operators.

“The Government’s commitment to reduce regulatory burden— estimated at over $10 billion annually—is a step in the right direction and reflects the reality facing growers dealing with mounting compliance costs,” Mr Burnett said.

The horticulture sector also raised concerns regarding the ClimateRelated Financial Disclosure framework, welcoming indications that reporting requirements may be refined to reduce pressure on businesses.

At the same time, industry leaders expressed concern over proposed reforms to the Working Holiday Maker program.

The sector remains heavily reliant on backpackers and seasonal workers to meet labour demand, particularly in regional and remote communities where workforce options are limited.

Mr Burnett warned changes that reduce access to seasonal labour could affect harvest capacity, disrupt supply chains and place additional pressure on food prices.

The Council also urged the Government to remain open to targeted support for growers struggling with escalating costs, particularly fuel, fertiliser and operating expenses.

Industry leaders say many horticultural businesses continue to absorb rising costs without the ability to pass them through supply chains, increasing financial pressure across the sector.

Mr Burnett said growers would continue working with government to ensure practical outcomes support long-term productivity and sustainability.

Farmers Welcome Budget Tax Wins

By Ian Rogers

Australia’s peak farming body has welcomed several major measures in the Federal Budget aimed at easing pressure on farmers, while warning cuts to regional infrastructure and agricultural support services could hurt longterm productivity.

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) said key tax reforms announced in the Budget delivered certainty for family farming businesses at a critical time for Australian agriculture.

NFF President Hamish McIntyre said farmers and fishers continued to face significant financial pressure due to global instability and rising input costs linked to ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

“Farmers have been doing it tough, and so has the broader economy,” Mr McIntyre said.

“The conflict in the Middle East has driven

fuel and fertiliser costs through the roof and placed pressure on the production of the food and fibre Australians rely on every day.”

The NFF welcomed changes ensuring primary production income will be exempt from the proposed 30 per cent minimum tax on discretionary trusts, alongside confirmation there would be no changes to small business capital gains tax concessions.

Mr McIntyre said the changes were especially important for succession planning across regional Australia.

“There are around 40,000 trusts used in agriculture so these are significant wins for family farm businesses,” he said.

“Family farms are generational businesses built over decades and often represent a family’s life savings and retirement plan. We are pleased the Government has listened.”

The Federation

also welcomed the Government’s $10 billion fuel security package aimed at strengthening domestic fuel and fertiliser resilience, particularly for regional and agricultural industries vulnerable to global supply shocks.

Farm groups praised the permanent extension of the instant asset write-off scheme, saying it would

effective measure that helps farmers reduce costs and increase their productivity.”

Additional Budget measures welcomed by the NFF included new loss carry-back provisions, an $8.7 million investment into the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA), deferred export

Agriculture sector praises fuel security and tax certainty but warns regional services face damaging cuts

provide greater certainty for producers investing in equipment, machinery and new technology.

“We advocated hard for this to become a permanent feature of our tax system,” Mr McIntyre said.

“It’s a simple and

cost recovery increases, and a $387 million funding boost for the CSIRO and the Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness.

The NFF also acknowledged additional funding tied to environmental reforms,

including support for the proposed National Environmental Protection Agency and Environmental Information Australia.

However, the organisation said uncertainty remained around how Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) reforms would affect continuing-use provisions for agriculture.

“Farmers need clarity and consistency, particularly around changes to continuing use provisions,”

Mr McIntyre said.

“We’ll continue working closely with the Government to ensure these reforms deliver environmental outcomes without creating uncertainty or unnecessary compliance burdens for producers.”

Despite welcoming several measures, the NFF raised concerns over cuts impacting the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, pest and

weed programs, the Inland Rail Project and regional connectivity services such as the Regional Tech Hub.

“There could not be a worse time to pull back investment in supply chains and regional connectivity,” Mr McIntyre said.

“The Inland Rail was designed to strengthen supply chains, ease pressure on our highways and reduce the cost of moving produce from farm gate to consumers.”

The NFF warned many regional Australians could lose vital support services if programs such as the Regional Tech Hub were scaled back.

“This Budget contains some hard-won wins for agriculture, and we welcome them,” Mr McIntyre said.

“But if Australia is serious about building a stronger, more productive economy, this must be the starting point, not the finish line.”

By Ian Rogers

Australia’s livestock and rural transport sector has welcomed the Federal Government’s major fuel security package announced in the Budget, but industry leaders warn regional freight roads remain critically underfunded.

The Australian Livestock and Rural Transporters Association (ALRTA) says the Budget’s $10.7 billion fuel security package provides muchneeded relief for operators heavily reliant on diesel, particularly during ongoing global uncertainty and supply chain pressures. The package includes a

$3.2 billion Australian Fuel Security Reserve alongside increased fuel stockholding obligations aimed at lifting national diesel and jet fuel reserves to 50 days. The Government has also committed $7.5 billion toward a Fuel and Fertiliser Security Facility. In addition, heavy vehicle operators will receive temporary cost relief through a three-month reduction in the heavy vehicle road user charge, cutting it from 32.4 cents per litre to zero from April 1, alongside a broader temporary reduction in fuel excise.

ALRTA National President Gerard Johnson said the fuel measures

represented the most significant direct assistance the industry had seen in years.

“Livestock and rural transport operators run on diesel. It is not a discretionary cost,” Mr Johnson said.

“Cutting the road user charge to zero goes straight to one of the largest operating costs our members carry.”

He said reliable fuel access remained essential to keeping rural Australia functioning.

“If diesel does not reach regional operators when and where it is needed, livestock does not move, feed does not move, and the consequences are

immediate,” he said.

“Regional freight operators must be treated as essential users in any fuel reserve or drawdown arrangements.”

However, despite the strong focus on fuel security, the ALRTA argues the Budget fails to adequately address the deteriorating condition of rural freight roads, ageing bridges and saleyard access routes relied upon daily by heavy vehicles across regional Australia.

While the Budget allocates $8.179 billion in road investment for 2026–27 and $38.7 billion over five years, the industry says there is still no clear national

Fuel Security Boost Welcomed But Rural Roads Left Behind

Livestock transport industry says diesel support is positive, but regional freight routes still neglected

strategy to prioritise freight productivity routes servicing agriculture.

The Association says rural freight cannot simply transition to rail transport due to the nature of livestock and farm supply movements.

“There is no substitute for heavy vehicle access to farms, saleyards, feedlots and processors,” Mr Johnson said.

“That makes targeted investment in regional road freight productivity one of the fastest ways to reduce transport costs and ease supply chain pressure.”

He added that many local roads used by livestock and grain carriers should be recognised as nationally significant freight infrastructure.

“Local roads are not minor roads when they are carrying livestock, grain, feed, fertiliser and farm supplies — they are

part of the national freight network and need to be funded that way.”

The ALRTA also warned that a reported $2 billion infrastructure spending delay in 2026–27, increasing to $4.1 billion over three years, could further slow much-needed regional road upgrades as international supply chain pressures continue affecting construction materials.

Mr Johnson said the Government deserved recognition for strengthening fuel security but warned the next challenge would require greater commitment to regional infrastructure.

“This Budget puts serious money into fuel security and deserves credit for that,” he said.

“The next job is harder: fixing the rural freight roads that keep regional Australia moving.”

Applications Open for Key Agricultural Trade Leadership Role

By Ian Rogers

The National Farmers’ Federation has launched a major new initiative designed to strengthen and diversify Australia’s agricultural export opportunities, with applications now open for the newly created Australian Agriculture Trade Diversification Representative role. The position sits at the centre of the newly established Office of the Australian Agriculture Trade Diversification Representative and is funded through the Federal Government’s Accessing New Markets Initiative.

The senior-level

appointment is aimed at boosting agricultural trade across both emerging and established export markets while helping Australian producers navigate increasingly volatile global trading conditions.

NFF Chief Executive Officer Mike Guerin said the role would provide strong leadership and a united industry voice during international trade promotion activities.

“Australian agriculture exports more than 70 per cent of what it produces, with trade playing a critical role in the business success and resilience of not just primary producers, but the broader agri-value chain,” Mr Guerin said.

“The NFF has a proud history of promoting trade, and we are excited to be working with the Australian Trade and Investment Commission to implement this important initiative.”

extensive experience across agriculture, trade or business sectors, as well as strong industry credibility.

Diversification Taskforce

General Manager

Jay Meek said strong collaboration between government and industry remained essential to expanding export opportunities.

New national position aims to strengthen Australian agriculture in global markets

The successful candidate will undertake strategic and ambassadorial activities both domestically and overseas, representing the broader agricultural sector while supporting trade diversification initiatives.

Mr Guerin said applicants would need

“We are looking for someone who has a demonstrable understanding of the agricultural industry both at the production level and in international trade environments,” he said.

“It may suit someone who has had a senior career in agriculture, business or trade and is looking to give back to the sector.”

Austrade Trade

“Close government and industry collaboration is key when working to diversify into new export markets, and to capitalise on growth opportunities in established markets,” Mr Meek said.

The role will involve approximately 75 days of direct engagement through to June 2027 and includes regular domestic and international travel.

Key responsibilities include supporting trade

missions, coordinating whole-of-sector trade activities, providing strategic advice and delivering industry feedback to government.

Applicants will be assessed by a selection panel, with the final appointment to be made by the NFF.

The initiative forms part of the broader Trade Diversification Network, which supports industry organisations in identifying and developing new export opportunities for Australian agricultural products.

For more information or to apply, prospective candidates can visit the NFF website.

Gardening Tips & Ideas Garden Ornaments

Bring Personality To Front & Backyards

From cheeky gnomes to grand statues

By Jeff Gibbs

Garden ornaments have long moved beyond being simple decorative extras. Across the Northern Rivers, homeowners are increasingly using ornaments to create personality, add focal points and bring life into outdoor spaces. Whether it is a quirky garden gnome hidden among tropical foliage, a rustic windmill standing proudly near a veggie patch, or a sandstone statue tucked beneath a flowering frangipani, ornaments can transform a garden from functional to unforgettable.

In the Northern Rivers climate, gardens often become year-round living spaces. Thanks to warm conditions and subtropical planting, local yards frequently feature dense greenery, flowering natives and outdoor entertaining areas. Adding carefully chosen ornaments can provide structure and character among all that lush growth.

Garden gnomes remain among Australia's most recognisable garden decorations. While once considered old-fashioned, they have made a major comeback. Today’s gnomes range from traditional fishing or wheelbarrow designs to humorous versions wearing sunglasses or riding motorcycles. Hidden among ferns or beside pathways, they create surprise and often become conversation starters.

Windmills are another ornament enjoying renewed popularity. Rustic metal windmills fit perfectly into Northern Rivers rural properties and hobby farms. Smaller decorative versions can add movement to suburban gardens, especially where coastal breezes regularly pass through areas like Ballina, Lennox Head and Byron Bay. Not only do they create visual interest, but movement can also attract attention to otherwise quiet sections of the yard.

Statues can create a

completely different feel.

Stone Buddha figures remain popular in tranquil garden settings, especially when paired with water features, bamboo or tropical plantings. Animal statues featuring birds, kangaroos, frogs and cattle can also complement country-style landscapes. In larger gardens, statues often become focal points at the end of pathways or within garden beds.

For Northern Rivers gardeners, durability matters. The region experiences strong summer rain, humidity and occasional severe weather events. Resin, sandstone, treated concrete and powder-coated metal ornaments generally perform well locally. Lightweight plastic ornaments may fade quickly or struggle in harsh conditions.

Placement also makes a major difference. Rather than filling every corner, landscape experts suggest using ornaments sparingly.

A striking statue beneath a tree canopy or a single windmill near raised vegetable beds often creates more impact than overcrowding.

Local gardeners looking for inspiration have several options throughout the region:

• Natures Decor Alstonville Garden Centre offers plants, décor and garden inspiration, making it a popular stop for people looking to combine ornament shopping with landscaping ideas.

• in Ballina stocks a wide range of garden products and decorative items.

• provides gardening

supplies and ideas for home garden projects.

• specialises in statement décor pieces including statues and decorative stone items.

• regularly carries seasonal garden ornaments including windmills, decorative pots and outdoor accessories. Ultimately, garden ornaments work best when they reflect personality. Whether your style is classic country, tropical retreat or playful backyard humour, the right decorative touch can turn a Northern Rivers garden into an outdoor space that feels uniquely your own.

CRAWFORD HOUSE MUSEUM

The latest exhibition at Crawford House Museum is called “Up in Smoke”. It features a timeline of the history of smoking in Australia from early European settlement to the present day and showcases the changing practices and social attitudes to smoking over the years. The exhibition runs until Sunday 14th June. Crawford House Museum is at 10 Wardell Road Alstonville and is open on Fridays between 10am and 4pm and Sundays between 1pm and 4pm or at other times by appointment for groups

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 9.30am1.30pm, 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 SUBBRANCH

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 20 May at the Cherry Street Sports Club commencing at 10.00 a.m. There will be an interesting guest speaker to entertain and inform members at this meeting. The

next major event being organized is a day at the races. This function has been very popular in past years, but is always subject to weather conditions. Preliminary planning is underway for bus trips and luncheons in the second half of the year, as well as special functions to mark the 50th anniversary of the commencement of Probus in Australia. 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. 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

DEMENTIA CAFÉ

Meets at Café Sebastian’s, Ballina Fair, Kerr Street Ballina on the second Monday of each month, excluding public holidays from 10:00-12noon midday for people living with a dementia and their carers for a cuppa and a chat.

NORTHERN RIVERS YOUNGER ONSET

DEMENTIA CARERS SUPPORT GROUP

The group supports carers of people living with dementia who were diagnosed with a dementia before they turned 65. The group meets on the first Friday of each month at Summerland House Farm from 10-12 noon for a cuppa and chat, the opportunity to share ideas or listen to guest speakers talk about relevant issues. All carers of people with younger onset dementia are welcome to attend. Sabrina 0429 455 720.

NINE HOLE LADIES GOLF AT BALLINA

The Nine Hole Ladies Golf Group plays at Ballina Golf Club every Tuesday and Thursday, from 12pm offering an enjoyable and time-efficient way to play a golf competition. The group combines golf with social interaction, making it ideal for busy people who do not have time for a full 18hole round. Beginners and casual golfers are welcome, with guidance provided for new players in a relaxed and supportive environment. For further information, please contact Ballina Golf Club. New members are always welcome.

BALLINA LADIES PROBUS CLUB

The Ballina Ladies Probus Club meets on the first Wednesday of each month at 10:00 am at the Ballina RSL Club. At our May meeting, members were delighted to witness President Jeanette induct four new members into the club. We are always pleased to welcome new faces and currently have vacancies for ladies wishing to join us. Visitors are warmly invited to attend our meetings, outings and social events, all centred around fun, fellowship and friendship. Our June meeting will feature guest speaker Robbi Harmon, who will present an informative talk on the Love Bites Respectful Relationships Education Program. In addition, our June social activity will be a morning tea at Swish Café, River Street, Ballina, on Wednesday 17 June at 10:30 am. This will be a wonderful opportunity to enjoy good food, great company and friendly conversation. If you would like to learn more about our club or upcoming activities, please contact our President, Jeanette, on 0407 417 470. We would love to hear from you and warmly welcome you along.

CWA BALLINA

Craft every Wednesday from 9.00am to 12.00 noon in the CWA rooms, next to RSL. Monthly meeting every 3rd Monday of the month from 9. 00am.Wanting to learn to knit, crochet or sew? Come and join us. Morning tea $3. All are welcome. Contact Gai Mason, Handicraft officer on 0433129339. President Barbara Driscoll 0428116668

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 allfemale group of all ages who love to sing “Acappella” in 4-part Barber shop 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 coffee. Or just come for a chat. Frozen take away meals available. Held at the Ballina Presbyterian Hall Corner of Cherry & Crane St Ballina 10AM TO 12PM Carol: 0438812235

BALLINA LIGHTHOUSE RSL DAY CLUB

A Day Club for elderly and isolated people in our community, held every Thursday at the Richmond Room Ballina. Enjoy morning tea and a mental stimulation exercise like Tai Chi, followed by lunch and afternoon musical entertainment. Every Thursday 10am to 2pm cost $10 Richmond Room, Regatta Avenue Ballina RSVP Lorraine Fox 66874350, 0439301249

BALLINA SENIOR CITIZENS BRIDGE CLUB

Social Bridge Play in Seniors Hall. Swift Street Ballina on Wednesday & Saturdays @ 12.05 pm Enquiries Phone: 0493425002 for details.

BALLINA TOY LIBRARY

Welcomes families from Ballina Shire. 9 Regatta Avenue, Ballina. Open Tuesdays 1pm 3pm, and Saturdays 10am 1pm. Ph. 0411719074.

IN FOCUS TOASTMASTERS CLUB

How about trying something different? 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.

BROADWATER

DUNGARUBBA COUNTRY MUSIC AT BROADWATER HALL SATURDAY 23RD MAY 11.30AM TO 4.30PM ENTRY $5 INCLUDING AFTERNOON TEA LUNCH

AVAILABLE LUCKY DOOR RAFFLES

VARIETY OF ARTISTS ENQUIRE JOY

0400372948

CASINO

Casino Richmond Valley Blind Citizens

Australia Branch

June meeting is on Monday 1st June 2026 at 10am in the Casino Baptist Church Hall corner Canterbury and West streets Casino. This is a special meeting with Lunch of Hot Home-Made Soup to be served after the meeting. Everyone welcome. Final follow-up from Resilient Lismore on disaster readiness as well as Guide Dog representatives to assist with hazards near me phone apps etc. New members are very welcome. Join us for a “Cuppa” at 10am.Free transport is available. Phone Denise 0448 014 682

Fairy Hill Craft Group is on Thursday 4th June, 10 a.m. at the Fairy Hill Hall on the Summerland Way. This week’s Activity: Hand-Stitched Needle Case. If you'd like to participate in this Activity, please bring sewing basics. i.e. needles, pins, scissors, thread, etc. Otherwise continue with your own project. New members are always welcome to join our group. B.Y.O. lunch. Tea/coffee provided. Please phone Sue 66633233 for further details.

WINDARA

Volunteers would like to invite interested folk to join them in volunteering to help raise funds for this wonderful facility. The money raised goes towards providing much needed appliances for the Windara Cafe Kitchen. The Volunteers met every 2nd Wednesday of the month at 10am at Windara Cafe for morning tea and meeting. Just come along or for inquiries phone Windara 66623800.

SCRABBLE PLAYERS

Looking for any keen Scrabble Players looking for a one-on-one game once a week Just for a fun time out

Please contact Penny 0423330936 for more information

CASINO CHARITY CASH BINGO if you would like to come along and join us each at Casino RSM Club each Thursday mornings 10.00am 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

CASINO LINE DANCE

Line Dance Classes Monday 4.30pm Beginners 5pm improvers St Marks Hall Ph 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 office on 6662 1217. Volunteering once a month for 1hour or so.

CASINO MEALS ON WHEELS

Volunteers needed Our delivery runs are Mon-Fri

WEEK 2

MONDAY

B.McEnerny & C.Moulden

R.Baker

TUESDAY

B.Bennett

WEDNESDAY

M.&M. Ayshford

G.Mannix

THURSDAY

S. Garrard & E. Grogan

FRIDAY

M.Anderson

J.Connell

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

we are now open from 9.00am to 2.30pm on the 1st & 3rd Sunday of the month. We encourage people to check our Facebook page for extra opening hours. (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 Griffins, President phone 0427622470 or Daphne Boyd, Secretary phone 0400070085

CASINO UNITING CHURCH

CAFÉ PRAISE…. Every Wednesday @ 1011am. 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 12:001:30pm 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 bimonthly 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.

CORAKI

Coraki Line dance Line Dance Classes Wednesday 5pm Beginners 6pm improver class Golf Club Ph 0418264489

CLARENCE VALLEY

Clarence Valley Probus clubs

Representatives of the Probus clubs within the Clarence Valley held the first cluster meeting for 2026 in Grafton recently. The cluster meeting held under the stewardship of Grafton Probus Ambassador, Paula Payne, bought together representatives from Grafton, Maclean and Yamba Probus clubs. Topics ranged from preparation for upcoming annual general meetings in March to how the various clubs can celebrate the 50th anniversary of Probus in Australia. It was a very full agenda,” Ambassador Paula Payne said. “Strategies to coordinate promotion of Probus 50th anniversary celebrations throughout 2026 as well as tours and guest speakers at meetings were discussed,” Paula said. Probus is celebrating 50 years of providing fun and friendship in Australia for retired and semiretired people this year. Probus is a non-fund raising, nonpolitical organisation that caters to the needs of older people in the community. If you would like to contact your local Probus Club or enquire about the many and varied activities Probus Clubs offer members please contact Grafton Probus Ambassador, Paula Payne on (M) 0439 325 856.

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 Parkinson’s Support group will next meet on Thursday, May 28, at 10am, at Thyme Evans Head Community Hall, 74 Currajong St,Evans Head. All members of the Parkinson’s Community, family and friends are most welcome to attend. There will be a discussion on Mental Health first aid as well as our usual discussions. Tea or coffee available for a gold coin donation.

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

Meeting held every 3rd Tuesday of the month commencing at 12 noon Venue Club Evans new members welcome 66828224 / 0427832524

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: 79pm; Training Monday mornings: 9am12noon; Junior coaching after school Wednesday 3.30pm4.45pm, $6 a session. Everybody is welcome – all levels. Phone centre on 66251602. Mon-Thurs 9.00am1.00pm

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 May meeting, attendance 39. apologies 14.Guest speakers, Donlta Kildey, Alex McManus, & Melissa Baker, from Summerland Credit Union, spoke about scans, including investment & romance scams. They reinforced need to not rush, don’t open links or attachments, unless certain they are who they say, & beware of calls claiming you have a computerproblem. Other matters to be aware of include pressure. secrecy, unusual requests, crypto, & personal information requests. New member: welcome Katy Gofton. Deaths sympatliy to families of former members, Helen Jarett, Helen Carnpbell. Doreen Jefferies. Correspondence in, letter from Westlawn Investments, rolled over; acceptance from Ray Srnith as Trustee, Chris Wheelahan, honorary Solicitor. Out, welcome letter to new number; get well & sympathy cards; request to Richie Williamson, to be patron. Coach Trips: Day to mystery venue, 26 June. just on sale. already half full. Port Macquarie 4-day tour from 9 Sept, still has spare seats, so need more bookings. General Business: Latest 6 monthly newsletter now being distributed. Mother’s Day competition winners: H. Cashel; A. Moran; R. Foley A. Norton; S. Connelly: G. Mealia; E. Christiansen; J. Cavanagh. Soup Day: Arranged for Monday, 15 June, now on sale. Meeting competition winners: M. Wilks: J. Mitchell; J. Preston: K. Ferrie; K. Martin; K. Lawson; Y Hall. Next meeting Tuesday. 9 June, 10am, guest speaker. Mavor. Richie Williamson Enquiries: Sandra, 6642 1720, or 041 7 464 946. New members always most welcome.

GRAFTON ALANON FAMILY GROUP

Our meetings are held weekly on Tuesdays at 12md - 1.30pm at the Salvation Army Hall, 91-93 Oliver Street, Grafton. Meetings are always confidential. The Al-Anon Family Groups are a fellowship of relatives and friends of Alcoholics who share their experience, strength, and hope in order to solve their common problems. We believe alcoholism is a family illness and that changed attitudes can aid recovery. Al-Anon is not allied with any sect, denomination, political entity, organization, or institution; does not engage in any controversy neither endorses nor opposes any cause. There are no dues for membership. Al-Anon is 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 see our website or to talk to a member in confidence call 1300 252 666 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 Schaeffer 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

Kingscliff 500 Card Club. Monday and Wednesday afternoons 1pm to 4pm Cudgen Surf Club New players WELCOME Contact: GARY 0499869992

KINGSCLIFF PROBUS CLUB

First Wednesday of the month, 10am to 12 noon in the function room of Kingscliff 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 LINE DANCE

Line Dance Classes Mondays 7pm Beginners bottom pub Tuesdays 5pm improvers Bowling Club Ph 0418264489

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 now meets on the third Saturday of each month. We welcome newcomers. We usually 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 and to experienced writers. We practice such genres as poetry, memoir and journaling to name a few. Morning tea is at 9:30am and is followed by our meeting at 10:00am. There is no charge to attend the Group For further information contact Diane on 0456 666 301 or Christobel on 0420 924 519.

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 offer. 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 closeknit 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.

LISMORE

Lismore Parkinsonism Support Group

Lismore Parkinsonism Support Group, for all Parkinson related disorders. We meet every third Friday of the month. Next group Meeting is 19th of June 2026Commences 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 LINE DANCE

Line Dance Classes Thursday 6pm hall Beginners 7pm improver class Presbyterian Hall Ph 0418264489

Anon Family Groups

Al-Anon offers help and hope for family and friends of alcoholics. If someone in your family has a drinking problem, you can see what it's doing to them. But can you see what it's doing to YOU? For information and help call 1300 ALANON (1300 252 666). AlAnon Family Groups meet regularly across Australia and online, see Website: Regular weekly meetings MONDAY 11:00am - 12.30 pm ILUKA - CWA Hall (behind the Iluka Museum), 2 Charles St. TUESDAY12.001.30 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) WEDNESDAY 6.30 - 8:00 pm BALLINA – Anglican Church, 24 Burnet St & ZOOM ID 252 666 0000 (no password)THURSDAY5:00 - 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 CWA at this time we do not, as yet, have our Schedule of Fundraising Activities finalized but will keep you up to date. We will continue with both our Monthly Member’s Meeting & Weekly Craft Meetings at our rooms in Spinks Park & will finalise these dates in our next notice. We are also ‘hoping’ to have our rooms open for morning tea & cooking/craft sales once a month to coincide with the monthly Craft Market at the Lismore City Bowling Club. (3rd Sunday of each month) & will confirm this as soon as possible. NEW MEMBERS ARE SO VERY WELCOME! If you’re interested in joining a much loved & long established CWA Branch to assist Women & Children in our Community, here’s how to do it! For Membership enquiries call our President Aliison Kelly on 0427 216 079. If you’re a ‘CRAFTY’ lady call our Craft Officer Vicki Boyle on 0437 465 642. We look forward to meeting you

LISMORE GARDEN CLUB meets on the 2nd Thursday of each month at the East Lismore Bowling Club, commencing at 1pm. The Club has guest speakers, visits to members’ gardens and enjoy a morning tea and friendship whilst taking in the beautiful gardens. Day trips away are also on the agenda from time to time. There is the opportunity to display something special such as a particular flower or produce each month. New members are most welcome. For further information, contact the Secretary, phone 0416 281 365.

AA MEETINGS

Lismore RED DOVE AA Meetings, Every Monday, Wednesday & Friday 12 Noon and Sundays 10.30am. Upstairs in The Uniting Church, cnr of Keen St & Woodlark St Lismore. Disability lifts available. Newcomers welcome.

LISMORE LIBRARY

Library Afterschool

Lismore Children's Library is launching a new program of afterschool activities called Library Afterschool. This term, we invite local children to get involved in PAPERCRAFT and LEGO activities. All sessions will be fun, free, lowkey and inclusive, facilitated by your friendly Lismore Children's Library staff.

PAPERCRAFT 3.30pm5pm 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 3.30pm5pm at Lismore Children’s Library, second and fourth Friday of the month Explore our excellent LEGO collection. Alternating themed and free play sessions. The Northern Rivers Lodge No. 77 meets on the 2nd Wednesday of each month (except in January) at the Lismore Masonic Centre, 111 Magellan Street Lismore. We welcome all Masons to an enjoyable and entertaining evening. Inquiries 0412665674

LISMORE CRAFTS & QUILTERS

You are invited to join, LISMORE CRAFTS & QUILTERS. We meet on Mondays at the Lismore Uniting Church, Red Dove, Hall 9.30am-12.30pm. We do Patchwork, Quilting & all Crafts. We also have night group, who meet at McLean Ridges Hall, Monday evenings, 5.30pm-9pm. Cost is $30 for the year & $5 each Monday. Looking forward to seeing you. Enquiries to Margaret Boxsell 0427141425

LISMORE LIONS CLUB

Please save your used stamps to raise funds for The Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation. Stamps are collected & forwarded on to be sorted & sold at Auction, to raise money for Children’s Mobility contact Margaret Boxsell on 0427141425

Lismore City Bowling

Lismore City Bowling and Recreation Club Community BINGO every Monday morning 10 am to 12 noon. Morning tea and Progressive Jackpot. All welcome. Phone 66 21 5991.

LISMORE CITY CONCERT BAND

Rehearsals are held during school terms on Mondays, 6.157.45pm 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: Pul Hinchey 0480516590

Opening Hours: Tuesday & Thursday 8.30am – 2.30pm We are a community based nonprofit 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 wellbeing 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: $40year Attendance Fee: $3 tea/coffee 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 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. (off 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).

CODEPENDANTS 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 difference 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 Lismore Workers' Club Function Room 1, 231 Keen 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 mind-fulness-based meditation group sits on Wednesdays from 7:008:30pm. 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 6:30pm8:15pm. 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 purpose

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.

MULLUMBIMBY

Mullumbimby CWA will host a Soup Day on June 17 at the CWA Rooms, with funds raised going to the Cancer Council. Come along at 11am and be waited on, as you are served with delicious homemade soups with crusty bread. This function is in place of the usual Biggest Morning Tea. Mullumbimby branch members will be helping at Primex in the CWA catering pavilion as in past years. Funds raised by the Far North Coast Group of CWA at Primex are put towards educational grants for school children in the region. At our June branch meeting, we welcomed members of Mullumbimby Fire and Rescue. Their presentation on Fire Safety in the Home was very informative. Tips on smoke alarms, fire escape plans, lithium battery safety and more were given. We were told about specialised smoke alarms for people who are deaf or hard of hearing, with a strobe light and vibrating pad that can be placed under the pillow. These activate when the smoke alarm sounds, and some can be interconnected with conventional alarms in different locations within the home. If one alarm senses smoke, all alarms will sound, the strobe light will flash and the vibrating pad will vibrate, alerting the resident. These smoke alarms also are suitable for those without hearing issues. The medical research project being supported by CWA at present is pancreatic cancer, which is the eighth most common cancer and the third deadliest in Australia. At the recent State Conference, a cheque for $45,000 was given to Pankind Australia for research into pancreatic cancer. For more information on Mullumbimby CWA, call Jenny on 66 847 282.

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 35pm, street parking, BYO, covered footwear, comfy clothing, hat, and water. Children ok with strict supervision. Covid plan operating. Ph: Bob Johnson (02)66225792.

POTTSVILLE

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS: Is drinking costing you more than money? AA works and is very active in Pottsville. We meet every Thursday 7pm at St Marks 15A Coronation Ave Pottsville and local contact 1800 423 431 or 04019 45671

POTTSVILLE FUN CROQUET CLUB

Meets at Black Rocks Sports Fields on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8.30am. New members are welcome to come and join us for a hit and a bit of fun. For any further enquires please call Jean on 0431606375.

TWEED HEADS

POETS AND WRITERS ON THE TWEED meet every Tuesday at the South Tweed Sports Club 1.30-3.30pm. Beginners welcome. Phone 0755248035.

TWEED HEADS PROBUS CLUB

Probus Club, Coolangatta/Tweed Heads. Be at Club Tweed at 1000am 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 91pm 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

PTSD PEER SUPPORT

Free • Trauma Informed • 365 Days a Year PTSD Peer Support meet ups offer a gentle, recovery focused space to connect with others who understand. Daily online meetups run every morning at 7am (NSW) for one hour and are open to anyone living with PTSD. FREE – NO FEE to join Trauma Informed with Peer led Moderator No pressure to share Recovery focused – with wellbeing information Safe, supportive, we don’t talk about the trauma event. Accessible for rural and remote communities When it comes to PTSD – “if you’ve got it, we get it” Whether you join to listen or take part in the discussion, you’ll be welcomed. For more information: PH 0478022022

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 realize their full potential. Ph: 0499862886

The NORTHERN RIVERS HASH HOUSE HARRIERS is a nonprofit community group that is part of a worldwide organization. The Hash House Harriers meet every Monday at 6pm for a run/walk from various locations around Lismore, Alstonville, and Ballina. The run/walk lasts for approximately an hour, followed by friendship, banter and grub. We are very friendly and welcome new members.

NORTHERN RIVERS NAVAL & MARINERS ASSOCIATION

This association was formed to attract veterans for companionship, wellbeing and to supply advocacy to veterans. We hold an informal gathering every Friday, 2.30pm at Ballina Angling Club (families are welcome). Ph: Allan Watt: 0402 749 582

ALL AREAS

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS If you’re looking for help to stop drinking, you can reach out to Alcoholics Anonymous 24 hours a day. Our phone line is always answered by someone who’s been where you are – an alcoholic in recovery. We understand the challengers, and we know we’re the right people to help you. You can call AA anytime on 1300 22 22 22

WEATHER

FORECAST

Northern Rivers District:

Sunny morning. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the afternoon and evening. The chance of a storm in the afternoon and evening. Light winds becoming southerly 15 to 20 km/h during the day then tending southwesterly during the evening.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers along the coastal fringe, slight chance elsewhere. Light winds becoming south to southwesterly 15 to 25 km/h during the morning.

Northern Tablelands District:

Partly cloudy. Slight chance of a shower. The chance of a storm in the north in the afternoon and evening. Winds west to southwesterly 15 to 25 km/h tending south to southwesterly 15 to 20 km/h during the day.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. Slight chance of a shower in the south.

Winds south to southeasterly 15 to 25 km/h tending south to southwesterly during the afternoon.

New South Wales:

Isolated showers along the coast and northern ranges with possible isolated storms. Areas of morning fog about the east. Daytime temperatures average about the east, grading to below average through the northern inland. Southerly winds, fresh to strong with gusty winds near the coast.

Thursday. Isolated showers along the coast with possible isolated storms. Areas of morning fog and patchy frost about the east. Daytime temperatures average about the east, grading to below average through the northern inland. Southerly winds, fresh to strong with gusty winds near the coast.

Byron Coast:

Winds: Southwesterly 20 to 30 knots turning southerly 25 to 30 knots during the afternoon. Seas: 1.5 to 2.5 metres. 1st Swell:

Northeasterly 2.5 metres, tending easterly 1.5 to 2 metres during the morning. 2nd Swell: Southerly below 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 2 metres during the morning. Weather: Partly cloudy. 70% chance of showers. The chance of a storm in the afternoon and evening. Coffs Coast: Winds: Southwesterly 20 to 30 knots turning southerly 25 to 30 knots during the afternoon. Seas: 1.5 to 2.5 metres. 1st Swell: Northeasterly 2.5 metres, tending easterly 1.5 to 2 metres during the morning. 2nd Swell: Southerly below 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 2 metres during the morning. Weather: Partly cloudy. 70% chance of showers. The chance of a storm in the afternoon and evening. Gold Coast Waters: Winds: Southwesterly 15 to 20 knots tending southerly during the day. Seas: Around 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore. Swell: Easterly 1.5 to 2.5

Seas The Day Set To Return Bigger Than Ever To Kingscliff

By Jeff Gibbs

World’s Largest Female Surf Festival Ready To Ride Another Wave Of Success

The world’s largest female participation surf festival is set to return to the Tweed Coast next month, with organisers promising the biggest and most exciting edition yet as the 2026 NRMA Insurance Seas The Day prepares to take over Kingscliff Beach.

Running across June 20 and 21, the event returns for its fourth consecutive year at Kingscliff and continues to grow into one of the most significant celebrations of women’s surfing in Australia.

Following record crowds exceeding 15,000 people last year, organisers are expecting another strong turnout as female surfers of all ages and abilities gather for a weekend combining surfing, wellness, entertainment and community spirit. The festival was officially launched at NSW Parliament with support from government representatives and leading

BALLINA NINE HOLE GOLFERS

BATTLE RAIN AND DELIVER BRILLIANT PERFORMANCES

Rain, raincoats and resilient golf highlight another memorable week on the Ballina fairways. Rain, raincoats and resilient golf were the order of the week as the Ballina Nine Hole Group once again proved that a little wet weather is no obstacle to competitive spirit and great camaraderie on the course.

Tuesday 12th May began under gloomy skies, with showers greeting players on the opening tee. However, the determined field refused to let the conditions dampen the action. As the rain eased throughout the round, the scoring heated up and produced an exciting finish at the top of the leaderboard.

Susan Frazier rose to

figures from Australian surfing. This year also marks a major partnership announcement, with NRMA Insurance signing on as naming rights partner through until 2028.

Surfing Australia Chief Executive Officer Chris Symington said the event

the challenge superbly, producing a composed and consistent round to finish with an impressive 18 points. Victory was only secured after a tense countback with Cathy Munro, who matched the winning score shot-for-shot in a terrific performance of her own. Helen Stevens was close behind with a strong 17 points to claim third place after another steady display.

The on-course contests added even more excitement to the day. Helen Stevens displayed precision under pressure to claim Nearest the Pin honours in Division 1, while Paula Bale secured Division 2 bragging rights with an excellent shot. The Longest Putt competition on the 18th green delivered a dramatic finish, with Susan Frazier capping off her successful day by sinking the winning putt.

had become a significant fixture on the national surfing calendar.

“It is a privilege to see the NRMA Insurance Seas The Day return to Kingscliff Beach for its fourth consecutive year,” Mr Symington said.

“The event reflects the

Thursday 14th May brought another testing round as players battled constantly changing weather conditions, with raincoats going on and off throughout the morning. Slippery fairways and tricky greens created extra challenges, yet the Ballina ladies once again demonstrated remarkable determination and resilience.

Kate Williams delivered the standout performance of the day, handling the difficult conditions beautifully to post a winning 19 points.

Jan Galletly fought hard to secure second place with 13 points, edging out Maria Donnelly on countback after both players finished level.

Nearest the Pin in Division 1 remained unclaimed after no player could find the ideal line, while Denise McInerney produced the shot of the day in Division 2 to secure the prize.

continued growth, strength and professionalism of women’s surfing in Australia.”

This year’s program extends well beyond the waves, with visitors able to enjoy motivational speakers, live music, yoga sessions, breathwork

experiences, food trucks, surfboard demonstrations and wellness activities across the weekend.

The inclusive tag-team surfing competition remains the centrepiece of the festival and includes divisions across shortboard, longboard,

Despite persistent rain and unpredictable conditions across both competitions, the Ballina Nine Hole Group once again showcased the wonderful spirit, friendly rivalry and love of the game that continues to make weekly events such an enjoyable highlight for all involved.

CORAKI VETERANS DEFY

THE RAIN WITH HOT SCORES ON DAMP MORNING

Wet weather may have reduced numbers, but it certainly did not cool down the scoring at Coraki. Persistent rain may have kept some golfers at home, but those who braved the conditions at Coraki Golf Club Veterans on Thursday 14th May were rewarded with another enjoyable and highly competitive day on the course. Despite gloomy skies and damp fairways,

para surfing and junior categories, designed to encourage participation in a welcoming and pressurefree environment.

Eight-time world champion Stephanie Gilmore praised the event for creating a unique and supportive atmosphere.

“What I love is seeing women from all walks of life getting into surfing, from age five to well into their sixties,” she said.

A returning crowd favourite will be the Celebrity Surf Challenge, which will once again feature world champions, Olympians, media personalities and emerging sporting talent competing in friendly relay-style action.

The NSW Government is continuing its support for the event, contributing $110,000 in funding aimed at encouraging greater female participation in sport across the state. The festival is expected to deliver another boost for Kingscliff and the broader Northern Rivers tourism economy while showcasing the Tweed Coast as one of Australia’s premier surfing destinations.

39 determined players teed off and produced some impressive scoring throughout the morning. While the weather threatened to make conditions difficult, the reduced field did little to diminish the competitive spirit, with several players rising brilliantly to the challenge.

Leading the way was I. Welch, who produced the standout performance of the day to take top honours.

B. Grimley followed with another strong round to secure second place, while Bruce McDonald completed the podium with a consistent performance to finish third.

D. Knox claimed the free game prize, while the popular chicken and ball prizes were spread across the field, rewarding a number of players for their efforts. Winners included B.

The nearest-the-pin contests again generated plenty of interest. R. Ellem showed excellent accuracy to claim the 3rd and 12th hole honours, while B. Cramp demonstrated his touch around the greens by taking out the prizes on the 6th and 15th holes.

Attention now turns to next Thursday, 21st May, when veterans will once again contest a Single Stableford competition. Players are reminded the popular shotgun start remains scheduled for 8.30am sharp. No matter the weather, Coraki Veterans continue proving that a little rain is no obstacle to good golf, good company and plenty of friendly competition.

TILL THEN GOOD GOLFING Max

Ghosts out to bring down Comets

By Tim Howard

The Grafton Ghosts have a gilt-edged opportunity to bring double their victory tally for the season when they host the Coffs Harbour Comets at Frank McGuren Field on Sunday.

It will be a welcome return to football for fans denied their fx due to the general bye over the past weekend.

Both teams have a win under their belt, with the Ghosts holding slight bragging rights, downing premiers Nambucca in a thriller.

The Comets beat Macksville for their solo win, but have already had the competition bye in the opening round of the season.

Drawing a form line from previous results, you would have to predict Sunday’s game will be close.

The 36-6 loss to the Panthers in round 2 was the worst result for the Ghosts, who only lost in the fnal minutes to South Grafton and were tenacious in a 14-0 loss to Woolgoolga.

On the other side of the ledger, the Comets were in the game all the way in a 26-22 loss to Sawtell Panthers and were competitive against the powerful Woolgoolga outft going down 30-16.

The Ghosts under new coach Ryan Farrell are rebuilding and looking to form a competitive team based on bringing on players from their junior ranks.

A key signing for them has been halfback Jake Frame, who returns to the club after a lengthy absence.

He has been in the Titans junior system and was a part of several premiership winning sides with the Ghosts.

His strong kicking and running game has been one of the season highlights for the Grafton team.

The battle in the halves will be the crucial match up for both sides.

With two former Seahorses halves, Tyler Murden and Jett McCarthy combining for the Comets they have a wealth of experience and confdence behind a hard working pack of forward.

And out wide the

Comets have the dangerous McCauley Dawson looking for openings in the centres. Farrell has been fortunate to have the versatile Cooper Woods on the roster.

As well as being an outstanding goal kicker, Woods has starred at fullback and halfback for the club in recent seasons.

And in the opening games of the 2026 season he has donned the 3

NSW Young Hockey Stars Earn National Selection

By Jeff Gibbs

New South Wales hockey has received a major boost, with nine athletes selected in Australian Under 21 squads following impressive performances at the 2026 Hockey Australia Under 21 Championships in Canberra. The selections recognise some of the state's brightest emerging talent, with players earning places in either the Australian men's Under 21 side, the Burras, or the Australian women's Under 21 team, the Jillaroos. The squads will now take part in training camps and development opportunities

throughout the year as selectors prepare teams for future international events, including the prestigious Sultan of Johor Cup in Malaysia later this year.

NSW enjoyed strong success at the championships, with five players selected from the Silver Medal-winning NSW State Under 21 Women's side and four players chosen from the Bronze Medal-winning NSW State Under 21 Men's team. Selections were based on performances during the tournament, highlighting the strength of the state's junior pathways.

Greater Sydney dominated

the selections with six athletes earning national recognition, while regional representation also featured strongly through athletes from Parkes, Newcastle and Goulburn.

The NSW athletes selected were: Jillaroos (Australian U21 Women)

• Emma Davidson –Northern Sydney and Beaches Hockey Association

• Lola Dorman – Northern Sydney and Beaches Hockey Association

• Lahni Woodger – Sydney South

• Emmalee Croker –Goulburn

• Amalia Patterson

– Northern Sydney and Beaches Hockey Association

Burras (Australian U21 Men)

• Toby Collins – Parkes

• Jared Findley – North West

Sydney Hockey Association

• Toby Mallon –Metropolitan South West Hockey Association

• Jack Marshall – Newcastle The selections represent another significant achievement for Hockey

NSW and reinforce the state's reputation for producing elite-level talent capable of progressing onto the international stage.

jersey like he was born into the position.

His match up Dawson will be another key battle for the afternoon.

In the forwards it looks like Farrell is building a traditional Ghosts pack: hard working and abrasive that works for the full 80 minutes.

In veteran Adam Slater they have an experienced hard man who can pass those skills to younger players.

Drafting former centre

Jake Martin into the back row has given the pack an added dimension of speed and athleticism, as he showed with this brilliant 50m run to steal the game against Nambucca.

On Sunday the Ghosts take on Coffs Comets in under-18s, ladies, reserve and frst grade.

The South Grafton Rebels have the bye for the round.

Seas The Day Set To Return Bigger Than Ever To Kingscliff