The Northern Rivers Times News Edition 307

Lismore moves into largest delivery phase of infrastructure restoration in its history

$218 Million Program Signals Largest Construction Push Since 2022 Floods

By Jeff Gibba

Lismore is preparing to enter the most significant infrastructure and flood recovery construction phase in its history, with Lismore City Council proposing a $218.4 million capital investment program for the 2026–27 financial year.

The major investment forms part of Council’s Draft Budget and is expected to drive largescale recovery, resilience and economic activity across the region following the devastating 2022 floods.

Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg said the program represented a major turning point in the city’s journey from disaster recovery toward long-term renewal and resilience.

“We fought hard to secure Lismore’s fair share, and that advocacy is now translating into real outcomes for the community,” Mayor Krieg

said.

He said years of lobbying, planning, approvals and engineering design work had laid the foundations for what is now becoming the city’s largest ever flood recovery delivery phase.

“After years of relentless lobbying, planning, approvals and detailed design work, the city is now entering the most significant delivery phase of flood recovery infrastructure projects in its history, with construction activity accelerating across the entire region,” he said. Council’s Flood Restoration Portfolio has already delivered 135 projects, paving the way for the next stage of recovery works.

Backed by $209.7 million in grant funding, the 2026–27 program will accelerate investment in critical infrastructure including roads, landslips, sewerage systems and flood resilience measures.

One of the largest priorities remains the Landslip Restoration Package, which addresses up to 60 complex landslip sites across the local government area. Seventeen landslips are currently under construction, with more than 20 additional projects scheduled to commence over the next 12 months.

At the same time, Council’s Pavement Restoration Program is continuing to rehabilitate more than 100 damaged sites spanning 49 roads throughout the region.

Both the landslip and pavement programs are jointly funded by the Australian and NSW governments through Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

Significant progress is also being made on restoring the South Lismore Sewage Treatment Plant. The project will relocate critical sewerage

infrastructure to higher ground to better protect essential services during future flood and severe weather events.

Funded by the NSW Reconstruction Authority and delivered by Lismore City Council, the sewage treatment plant project is currently in its design phase, with completion targeted by 2027.

Work is also continuing on the Browns Creek Pump Station upgrade, funded through the Australian Government’s Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program 2022–23 and administered by the NSW Reconstruction Authority.

Mayor Krieg said the Browns Creek upgrade would deliver practical flood mitigation benefits.

“The upgrade will improve catchment response to local rainfall when river levels rise, helping to keep evacuation routes open and limit

stormwater damage,” he said.

The scale of investment has been made possible through substantial State and Federal disaster recovery funding secured following Council advocacy after the 2022 flood disaster.

Mayor Krieg said the investment would not only rebuild infrastructure but also strengthen the local economy.

“This level of investment supports local contractors and keeps money flowing in our local community,” he said.

“This is a major step forward in Lismore’s recovery and future, and a showcase of the work we are doing to deliver on community priorities for Lismore.”

The Draft Budget and associated financial documents remain on public exhibition until 11 June 2026 through Your Say Lismore.

Compass Music Festival Set To Hit New High Note

More Than 1,100 North Coast Students To Perform In Woolgoolga Spectacular

By Robert Heyward

More than 1,100 public school students from across the North Coast will take centre stage in Woolgoolga this week as the Compass Music Festival North Coast 2026 prepares for its biggest event yet.

Held over two nights on 25 and 26 May at the Wiigulga Sports Complex, the festival has become one of regional NSW’s premier school performing arts events, bringing together talented young musicians from Years 3 to 12.

Presented by the NSW Department of Education’s The Arts Unit, the festival provides students from regional and rural communities with the opportunity to rehearse, workshop and perform in a large-scale music production close to home.

Performers will spend the day refining their performances before taking to the stage in evening concerts for family, friends

and the wider community.

The 2026 program will feature seven lead student performers alongside combined primary and secondary choirs, a recorder ensemble and the North Coast Festival Orchestra, which includes musicians from the Bellingen Youth Orchestra.

The festival also marks a milestone for the orchestra, which

will perform together publicly for the first time before accompanying the combined choir at the Festival of Choral Music at the Sydney Opera House in August.

Department of Education Arts Unit Student Access and Engagement Advisor Simon Kermode said the festival demonstrated the strength and value of public education in regional

communities.

“Five years ago in 2022, we started with 300 student participants, and now we’re at more than 1,100 student performers, with this year’s festival due to be the biggest one yet,” Mr Kermode said. He said the event created valuable opportunities for rural and regional students without requiring extensive travel.

“Compass Music Festival provides regional and rural NSW public school students with the opportunity to perform in a large-scale local festival, reducing the need for families and schools to travel long distances for major performance opportunities,” he said.

“Last year’s show was a sellout and we’re not far off this year either, which demonstrates its importance to the local community.”

The event also highlights emerging local talent.

Nambucca Heads High School student Violette Hyland returns as a featured performer, singing Last October by Sara Beth. Hyland previously performed an original composition at Compass Music Festival 2024 and later appeared at the Festival of Instrumental Music at the Sydney Opera House.

Year 6 Goonengerry Public School students Feather Morris, Koda

Druitt and Rose Johnson will perform Last Forever, an original song written by Feather reflecting friendship and the transition from primary to high school.

Goonengerry staff member Eilidh Davies said the performance carried special emotional significance.

“Performing this song together is their way of celebrating their individual and collective talents and is a heartfelt farewell to their primary school journey and a reflection of the strong bond they will always share,” Ms Davies said.

Tuesday night will feature Bellingen High School performer Teale KellyWright with a rendition of Moon River, while firsttime performers Somerley Bramall, Eden Davis, Julius Taylor and Maclean High clarinettist Alex Todhunter will also take the stage.

Limited tickets remain available, with the 2026 Compass Music Festival proudly supported by SIXT.

To learn more visit rous.nsw.gov.au Taking care of drinking water catchments, managing targeted weed programs, and maintaining rural food infrastructure now and into the future.

WE’RE WORKING BEHIND THE SCENES

Community hall user put on hold

By Tim Howard

Community fears over the future of the Wooli Street Hall and Library resurfaced at Thursday’s Clarence Valley Council meeting as councillors debated the future of the historic site and a controversial lease arrangement involving The Gathering Church.

The hall and former library precinct became one of the most hotly discussed issues of the five-hour meeting, appearing both in council’s broader review of surplus land and assets and later as a late item of business concerning a proposed lease for the church.

The site has remained politically sensitive since 2022, when a proposal to sell the property to help fund the Treelands Drive Community Centre sparked widespread backlash in Yamba and helped trigger the formation of Yamba Community Action Network.

During two deputations to council, community representatives argued the hall should remain permanently in community hands and warned against any future pathway toward redevelopment or affordable housing on the site.

Gathering Church pastor Steve Stuttle told councillors the church had used the hall for nine years and had applied for a long-

term lease after council moved regular users from the Wooli Street site to the new Treelands Drive facility.

Mr Stuttle said council had accepted the church’s expression of interest in February for a lease of up to three years with an option, but the church later received a one-year lease with no option and restrictions on subletting the hall to other community groups.

“The community, particularly in Yamba, has also made it clear it needs an affordable place for community groups,” he said.

Mr Stuttle said the church wanted to use the site as a broader community hub,

including youth activities, support programs and affordable meeting space for groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous.

He said the newer Treelands Drive facility was significantly more expensive to hire and unsuitable for some smaller groups.

“We’re not here to make a profit,” he said.

“Our desire is to partner with council to retain this facility as a community precinct.”

In a second deputation, Bobby McCaughey told councillors the precinct had more than 120 years of community history dating back to the original Yamba School of Arts building

established in 1907.

“The whole precinct is more than real estate,” she said.

“It’s a gathering place, a cultural space, a practical emergency asset, and a living part of Yamba’s history.”

Ms McCaughey said the hall’s links to Ford Park, flood resilience, central location and accessibility made it a critical community asset.

She also pushed for heritage listing protection for the site and warned against any future rezoning that could allow the land to be sold.

During debate on council’s broader property

review, Cr Lynne Cairns repeatedly raised concerns the site could eventually be considered for affordable housing or disposal despite councillors insisting no sale was currently proposed.

Cr Greg Clancy unsuccessfully attempted to amend a motion to specifically exclude the Wooli Street Hall and Library from the review process.

“The land is actually not council staff’s land, it’s the community’s, and we need to manage that properly,” Cr Clancy said.

But Cr Andrew Baker argued his motion was deliberately broad

and designed to avoid predetermining the future of any site.

“I don’t want to see a report come back dealing with any of the properties which assumes an outcome already,” he said.

Council eventually unanimously adopted Cr Baker’s motion seeking further reports into the “best outcomes from disposal or otherwise” for a number of council-owned sites.

The Wooli Street issue returned later in the meeting as Cr Cairns introduced a late motion seeking to formalise a three-year lease with a three-year option for the Gathering Church.

However, confusion emerged during debate over why the church had apparently received only a one-year lease while Country Universities Centre had been offered a three-year arrangement for the former library space.

General manager Laura Black repeatedly told councillors she did not know why the differing lease terms had been issued.

“I don’t know why the staff issued a one-year lease,” Ms Black said.

“I can’t explain that.”

After extensive debate, councillors voted to defer consideration of the proposed lease arrangement until the June ordinary meeting.

Council unable to explain why Jackybulbin Road name changed

By Tim Howard

Clarence Valley Council says it cannot explain why the long-established name of Jackybulbin Road north of Grafton was changed because no records documenting the decision have been found.

But the council says it believes the change likely occurred sometime between 2003 and 2008, possibly during the Clarence Valley amalgamation process or to align with naming held by NSW Spatial Services.

The response comes after months of complaints from residents living along the road, who say they were never consulted or informed before the name appearing in official records changed from Jackybulbin Road to “Tullymorgan-Jackybulbin Road”.

The dispute escalated in December 2025 when council replaced longstanding Jackybulbin Road signs near Mororo with new signs bearing the updated name.

Residents Bobby McCaughey and Ross Anderson have argued the road has been known as Jackybulbin Road for decades and say the change has created confusion

for banking, deliveries, navigation and emergency services.

In response to questions from The Northern Rivers Times, council said it had been unable to locate records explaining the original decision.

“It is believed the road name change occurred between 2003 and 2008,” a council spokesperson said.

“While there are no records available to document why this change occurred, it is reasonable to assume that the road name was changed to align with the road naming held

by NSW Spatial Services or may have occurred as a result of the change in LGA as part of the Clarence Valley Council amalgamation.”

Council acknowledged its obligations under the Roads Act 1993 and State Records Act 1998 regarding road naming decisions and record keeping.

However, it said the absence of records did not necessarily mean proper procedures had not been followed at the time.

“Council has undertaken reasonable searches of

available records and provided all information that could be identified as relevant to the request,” the spokesperson said.

“Given the age of the matter this does not necessarily mean the required process at the time was not followed.”

The council also confirmed the new signage installed in December was intended to match the road name recorded by NSW Spatial Services.

“After being alerted by some community members of the incorrect name on the sign, council replaced it to reflect the name held by NSW Spatial Services,” the spokesperson said.

Residents dispute that explanation, arguing there is extensive historical

evidence showing the road was known as Jackybulbin Road for decades, including development applications, licences, government correspondence and courtrelated documents.

The matter has also drawn criticism from the Yaegl Elders Aboriginal Corporation, which lodged a complaint with the NSW Ombudsman alleging the local Aboriginal community was not consulted despite the name having cultural significance.

In a letter to the Ombudsman, Yaegl Elders chairperson Glenda MacPhail said the road had “always been known as Jackybulin (sic) Road” and raised concerns

about emergency services confusion and the lack of community consultation.

The residents have also questioned why signage remained as Jackybulbin Road for many years after the alleged change occurred, with some Transport for NSW signs on the Pacific Highway still using the original name.

Ms McCaughey said the council response had deepened residents’ frustration.

“They can’t tell us why it changed, who changed it, or whether anyone was consulted,” she said.

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

Fitness centre boss says council is ‘killing’ bid for South Pool site

By Tim Howard

A proposal to transform the former South Grafton Pool and Gym site into a major health and fitness centre became a flashpoint at Thursday’s Clarence Valley Council meeting.

It was part of a debate on a report on the feasibility of turning surplus council land into affordable housing in the valley.

Local fitness centre

operator Michael Kuhnemann used a deputation to sharply criticise council officers and consultants after learning recommendations were being prepared to investigate affordable housing opportunities on the Cambridge Street site instead of progressing his commercial proposal.

“I’m here today because after waiting six months for direction and after council running this expression

liabilities from council.

“Council asked the market for proposals,” he said.

“I brought forward a serious proposal with funding and experience behind it.”

Mr Kuhnemann described himself as operating the “Bunnings of the fitness industry” and said he already owned two fitness centres in Lismore.

venue.

Mr Kuhnemann cited Monash University research examining links between gambling harm and vulnerable populations living near gaming venues.

“You cannot claim community wellbeing on one hand while ignoring the evidence on the other,” he said.

During debate later in the meeting, councillors discussed the future of 11 council-owned sites, including the Cambridge Street property.

of interest process for almost 18 months, I found out last Thursday night there’s a recommendation from council officers and consultants to kill my proposal and pursue social affordable housing on the site,” he said.

“I received no warning, no consultation, no opportunity to respond.”

The South Grafton Pool and Gym closed following

the opening of the Clarence Regional Aquatic Centre, with council later seeking expressions of interest for potential future uses of the site at 77 Cambridge Street.

Mr Kuhnemann said his proposal would deliver a privately funded health and wellness facility, jobs, disability services and long-term community benefits while removing ongoing maintenance

He told councillors he had increased his offer for the site after learning council valuations placed the property between $550,000 and $650,000.

“I’m happy to meet the market,” he said.

“I just want to get in there.”

The deputation became increasingly critical of the affordable housing recommendations being considered for the site, particularly its proximity to a licensed club and gaming

He also questioned whether the council-owned properties identified in the reports were genuinely suitable for affordable housing developments.

“What is risky is spending more years and more ratepayer money chasing housing concept with no clear funding model, no guaranteed delivery, and recommendations that even council may need to sell additional assets to make this work,” he said.

“That is not a strategy, that is asset depletion.”

Cr Andrew Baker successfully moved a motion seeking further reports into the “best outcomes from disposal or otherwise” for the sites, excluding the South Grafton property, which had already been subject to earlier debate.

Cr Peter Johnstone said the discussion should not focus purely on monetary value.

“As far as I’m concerned, the best outcome is often the right thing for the community,” he said.

The debate formed part of a broader council discussion around affordable housing, community infrastructure and the future use of surplus public assets across the Clarence Valle

Kids building their own school

By Samantha Elley

It is not often you find a school where the students are the teachers and vice versa.

This was the admission of one of the teachers in the documentary ‘The School the Kids Built’ as she admitted they knew

more about the technology they were using to make the film than she did.

But this seems to be the way of the Lismore-located Living School.

“It is a progressive school, adaptive and fluid,” said co-founder, John Stewart at the beginning of the film.

“Students call teachers by their first name and there is no uniform, they eat when they like and there is no homework.

“Every Friday we are outdoors, off phones and off screens.”

Mr Stewart said with a 52% disengagement of students from their

schoolwork across the country, Living School is a middle school experiment.

“Students are given more control about how and what they learn,” he said.

While state curriculum requirements are followed, preparation to cover their core requirements are done in a meaningful way.

In the film students chose what path they wanted to concentrate on deciding to be either documentary makers, animators, neuro-scientists, artists, historians and sportspeople.

With the 2022 flood Living School lost its premises and had to relocate to Southern Cross University grounds until their new school, in the old Brown and Jolly premises will be ready.

As ever, the flood became a defining factor for many of the affected students and they mused on how it changed them.

“It’s now a part of my identity,” said one student in the film.

The new premises for Living School will have a rainforest theme and

students have been asked to design how it should look.

The film showcased some very imaginative designs. At the end of the film, Mr Stewart addressed the audience of around 40 people at Lismore Cinema, saying the establishment of Living School was to challenge the current education system of the knowledge economy.

“The kids here are collaborating, being emotional and being human,” he said.

“The school’s intention is community driven and not just individual.

“The kids are confident, curious, collaborative, social and engaging.”

Many of the students confirmed their engagement with their lessons and how they enjoyed coming to their classes.

When asked if there was another film in the pipeline, the students all hoped there would be.

JACK LINK’S BRINGS BIG ENERGY TO CASINO BEEF WEEK WITH BREAKFAST WITH THE BUTCHERS AND

Casino, NSW — Jack Link’s Australia is set to deliver two standout moments at Casino Beef Week 2026, continuing its major partnership with one of Australia’s most iconic regional festivals.

On Friday, Jack Link’s will proudly sponsor the Jack Link’s Breakfast with the Butchers, serving more than 10,000 free sausage and steak breakfasts alongside local butchers and celebrating strong community and industry collaboration.

The excitement continues on Saturday, 30 May 2026, with the much-anticipated Jack Link’s Tower of Beef activation taking centre stage on Little Walker Street, Casino, from 8:00am to 2:00pm.

TOWER OF BEEF

CHALLENGE

The 10-metre beef jerky installation will host a live on-site competition where three finalists from the ACT, Victoria and Queensland will take on the Tower of Beef for the chance to win a $1,000,000 prize giveaway. The finalists were selected through Jack Link’s national promotion linked to its recent collaboration with global YouTube creator MrBeast, which saw nearly half a million people across Australia and New Zealand participate.

The Tower of Beef is expected to be one of the highlight attractions of Beef Week 2026, with national attention as Channel 9’s Today Show broadcasts live from the site during the morning.

Sandhills Wetlands Restoration Wins Prestigious

By Robert Heyward Byron Shire Council’s

Sandhills Wetlands restoration project has won the Landscape category at the 2026 National Trust (NSW) Heritage Awards.

The annual awards recognise outstanding heritage projects,

people, innovations and achievements across New South Wales.

Located on a 1.8-hectare site in the heart of Byron Bay, the Sandhills Wetlands were heavily damaged by sandmining in the 1960s. For many years, the area remained degraded, overgrown and affected by anti-social

behaviour.

Council’s Director Infrastructure Services, Phil Holloway, said the award recognised one of Council’s most significant cultural, environmental and drainage projects.

“The project restored the ecological function of

the wetlands, reinstated the natural landscape and honoured cultural heritage,” Mr Holloway said.

The restoration was codesigned with Arakwal and supported by the Tweed Byron Local Aboriginal Land Council and Crown Lands.

As well as improving

the natural landscape, the wetlands have been designed to help reduce the impact of flooding in the Byron Bay town centre.

Mr Holloway thanked the National Trust (NSW) for recognising the importance of the project and its long-term value to the community.

The Sandhills Wetlands restoration was funded by the Australian Government through the Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program, the NSW Government through the Public Spaces Legacy Program, and Byron Shire Council

The echo from Christchurch

Comment By Tim Howard

The recent attack in San Diego carries a disturbing echo from this side of the world.

According to United States investigators, the gunmen behind the attack drew inspiration from the ideology of the Australian responsible for the 2019 Christchurch mosque massacres — an act of terror that claimed 51 lives in New Zealand and shocked the world.

For Australians, and particularly for those in regional NSW where the Christchurch terrorist spent part of his youth, it is an uncomfortable reminder that extremist violence is not always something that arrives from elsewhere. Sometimes its origins are far closer to home.

That reality matters because public discussion around terrorism so often drifts toward simplistic language about “bad countries,” dangerous outsiders or foreign cultures.

Yet one of the deadliest modern terrorist attacks in our region was carried out not by an imported extremist, but by a white Australian radicalised within the broader online culture of international extremism.

Now, years later, investigators allege that ideology has inspired violence again.

The San Diego attack demonstrates how modern extremist movements operate less like traditional organisations tied to one nation and more like contagious belief systems spreading through online communities across borders.

Hatred no longer requires physical proximity. It travels instantly through forums, videos, manifestos and social media ecosystems that reward outrage and dehumanisation.

And while politicians often speak as though terrorism has a nationality, extremism is more opportunistic than patriotic. It recruits where it finds

By Robert Heyward

A damning report by the NSW Auditor General has reignited concerns over flood recovery efforts across the Northern Rivers, revealing that just 54 homes have received house-raises or retrofits under the Resilient Homes Program despite earlier commitments to protect around 4,400 floodaffected properties.

The figure represents a completion rate of little more than one per cent almost four years after the catastrophic 2022 floods devastated communities across the region.

Released this week, the Auditor General’s report

grievance, resentment, alienation and anger.

That is why nuance matters.

Democracies need strong security systems and serious intelligence capabilities. Genuine threats from hostile organisations and violent ideologies cannot be ignored.

But societies also weaken themselves when they reduce terrorism to stereotypes about ethnicity, religion or nationality.

The Christchurch massacre should have permanently shattered the

comforting illusion that violent extremism only comes from “other people.”

The alleged ideological link between Christchurch and San Diego reinforces that lesson.

But amid the horror of the San Diego attack there was also an example of extraordinary courage.

Reports indicate a security guard, Amin Abdullah, confronted the attackers and may have prevented a far greater massacre before losing his own life.

Two others, Nadir Awad and Mansour Kaziha, also

displayed heroism that cost them their lives, distracting the two shooters from the mosque where more than 100 children were just metres from them.

While extremists often seek notoriety through destruction and fear, acts like this reveal another side of human nature entirely — the willingness of ordinary people to place themselves between violence and the vulnerable.

That is also exactly why many media organisations choose not to name mass killers and terrorists.

The attackers wanted attention. They wanted infamy. Modern extremism feeds on spectacle, recognition and imitation.

The Christchurch massacre itself became influential in extremist circles partly because the perpetrator deliberately staged the attack for maximum global attention.

Society does not have to continue that bargain.

There is no public good served by turning murderers into dark celebrities whose names echo endlessly through headlines and online forums.

Their crimes should be remembered, their ideology examined, and the warning signs understood. But notoriety itself should not be part of the reward.

The security guard and two worshippers who died protecting others deserves the recognition instead.

They represent the values extremists try to destroy — courage, sacrifice, solidarity and humanity in

Flood Recovery Under Fire

criticised the design and establishment of the Resilient Homes Program, which was introduced following the 2022 disaster to support flood-affected residents through voluntary buybacks, house-raising and retrofit schemes aimed at reducing future flood risks.

The report also highlighted continuing delays within the separate Resilient Lands Program, revealing it has yet to deliver a single home despite being established to support housing relocation and resilience outcomes.

The findings have triggered fresh criticism from Lismore resident, Greens MP and North Coast spokesperson Sue

Higginson, who said the report exposed serious shortcomings in the flood recovery process.

“The climate-fuelled floods of 2022 decimated the Northern Rivers region, and the Auditor General’s report today has illuminated just how botched and traumatic the flood recovery has been for our community,” Ms Higginson said.

The February and March 2022 floods caused widespread destruction across the Northern Rivers, inundating thousands of homes and businesses and leaving long-term social, economic and housing impacts still being felt today.

Ms Higginson said

many flood survivors felt ignored throughout the recovery process and were left frustrated by promises they believe have not been fulfilled.

“As a Lismore local I saw first hand how communities were asked what they needed, told they couldn’t have it, were kept in the dark, and then promises that were made to flood survivors have been broken,” she said.

Following the floods, affected communities called for long-term relocation options for residents living in high-risk flood zones. However, Ms Higginson said governments instead focused on buybacks and flood mitigation programs.

the face of hatred.

While the attackers sought to spread fear and division, their actions appear to have limited the harm and protected innocent lives.

That is the story worth amplifying.

One of the mistakes modern media and politics sometimes make is allowing terrorists to dominate the narrative.

Their grievances, symbols and identities can overwhelm public attention while the people who resisted them become secondary figures.

But history is shaped as much by courage as by hatred.

The Christchurch terrorist wanted fear, division and imitation. The San Diego attackers appear to have embraced that same ideology.

Yet what also echoes across these tragedies are the actions of people who refuse to surrender to terror — worshippers protecting each other, first responders rushing toward danger, and individuals willing to stand between violence and the vulnerable.

If democracies are to defend themselves effectively, they need honesty as much as strength. Honesty about where extremism comes from. Honesty about how it spreads. And honesty about the fact that hatred can emerge within familiar communities just as easily as beyond our borders.

Recognising that reality is not weakness. It is the beginning of wisdom.

“After the floods the NSW Government swooped in and told our community they knew best,” she said.

“We made a considered and concerted call for relocations but we were told we couldn’t have that.”

She said the promised scale of housing protection had failed to materialise.

“4,400 flooded households were promised raises or retrofits, but just 54 households have actually received them — a dismal one per cent completion rate in four years,” Ms Higginson said.

Ms Higginson argued the delays were having serious consequences for community wellbeing and confidence in the future.

“The failure of this program is having serious impacts on our community’s capacity and wellbeing,” she said.

“Lismore is changed forever, many of our kids have left because of the flood and our community is still grasping for a vision of our future.”

She is now calling on Premier Chris Minns to urgently commit further funding to accelerate house-raising and retrofit programs for homes that remain vulnerable.

“Every dollar we spend protecting homes now is hundreds of dollars we save in the future,” Ms Higginson said.

$5m boost for major South Grafton social housing project

By Tim Howard

A vacant block of land in Armidale Street, South Grafton is set to become home to what is being described as the nation’s largest modular social housing project, following a $5 million funding commitment from the NSW Government.

The development, led by respected community and aged care housing provider Clarence Village Ltd, will deliver 32 selfcontained one-bedroom social housing units aimed at older residents, with vulnerable single older women prioritised for accommodation.

The project carries an estimated value of $14.5 million and will be built on land owned by Clarence Village in South Grafton.

The funding announcement was made during a site visit attended by the organisation’s chief executive officer and board chairman.

Supporters of the project say it addresses a growing need for smaller, affordable and low-maintenance housing options in regional communities, particularly for older women at risk of homelessness.

The modular housing

The homes are designed to provide safe and secure accommodation while allowing residents to remain connected to family, community networks and support services in the Clarence Valley.

Construction of the modular buildings is expected to be completed and installed on site before Christmas, with the first residents anticipated to move in by Easter 2027.

development has been in planning since 2018, with Clarence Village working alongside Homes NSW and Housing Australia to secure support and funding.

The project comes amid increasing pressure on housing availability and affordability across the Northern Rivers, with community organisations warning that older women are one of the fastest-growing groups experiencing housing insecurity and homelessness.

Labor Rejects Funding For Northern Rivers Rail Trail Expansion

By Jeff Gibbs

The future expansion of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail has been thrown into doubt after the Federal Government declined to provide funding for the next stage of the project, prompting criticism from Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan.

Mr Hogan said the Albanese Government’s decision represented a setback for local communities, tourism operators and businesses that had been anticipating further development of the trail network.

According to Mr Hogan, no new Federal funding has been allocated to the Rail Trail project since funding was secured in 2021 for the Lismore to Bentley section.

“There has been no new Federal funding for the Rail Trail since I secured

funding for the Lismore to Bentley section in 2021,”

Mr Hogan said.

“Since then, the Government has failed to step up and finish the job.”

Calls Grow For Support As Next Stage Faces Uncertainty Lismore Rail Trail Vision Holds Firm

By Jeff Gibbs

Lismore City Council has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering the Northern Rivers Rail Trail through Lismore despite a setback following the Federal Government’s decision not to fund the next stage of the project.

The $42 million funding application, lodged in 2024 in partnership with Byron Shire Council,

sought support to progress the rail trail section between Lismore and Bexhill.

While disappointed by the outcome, Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg said Council remained firmly committed to the longterm vision for the project and would continue preparing for future funding opportunities.

“We are disappointed in the funding decision handed down this week; delivering the rail trail

former railway corridors into shared pathways for walking, cycling and outdoor recreation.

Completed sections of the trail have drawn strong visitor numbers and generated economic activity for surrounding communities, with accommodation providers, cafés and small businesses benefiting from increased visitation.

Mr Hogan said the next planned stage through Lismore had been well advanced, with councils collaborating on planning and community consultation.

“This is an incredibly disappointing decision for our region,” he said.

The Northern Rivers Rail Trail has emerged as one of the region’s most significant tourism and recreation projects, transforming sections of

“The Rail Trail has already proven itself as a major success story. The completed sections are attracting thousands upon thousands of visitors and delivering real economic benefits to local towns and businesses.”

Mr Hogan said the proposed Lismore section had broad backing and represented a ready-todeliver infrastructure project.

“The next stage through Lismore was ready to go. Councils were working together. The community was behind it. The economic case stacked up. But Labor has walked away,” he said.

The Rail Trail has become a prominent regional tourism asset, with sections of the network reportedly attracting close to 100,000 users annually.

Supporters argue the project provides more than tourism benefits, contributing to healthier lifestyles, stronger regional connections and increased investment opportunities across Northern Rivers communities.

Mr Hogan said the Government’s decision overlooked the demonstrated success of the existing network and the planning already completed by councils and community stakeholders.

“We’ve already seen the numbers far exceed expectations, with close to 100,000 users on parts of the trail each year,” he said.

“The community has done the hard work. Councils have done the planning. What’s missing is leadership from this Government.”

Despite the funding setback, Mr Hogan said he would continue advocating for the project and securing support for future stages.

“I will keep advocating strongly for the Rail Trail because this project has enormous potential for our communities and our local economy,” he said.

through Lismore remains a strategic priority for Council,” Mayor Krieg said.

The Northern Rivers Rail Trail has become one of the region’s most recognised tourism and recreation projects, transforming former rail corridors into shared pathways for walking, cycling and outdoor recreation. Existing sections have attracted significant visitation and generated economic activity for nearby communities.

Mayor Krieg said Council continued to view the rail trail as a major opportunity for regional economic growth and stronger community connectivity.

“From an economic development perspective, the Northern Rivers Rail Trail continues to represent a significant long-term tourism, visitation and connectivity opportunity for the Northern Rivers,” he said.

“The strategic rationale

for the project remains strong.”

The proposed Lismoreto-Bexhill section has long been viewed as a key missing link within the broader Northern Rivers network, with supporters arguing the extension would further strengthen tourism appeal and provide additional recreation and transport benefits.

Following the unsuccessful funding bid, Council will now review work completed to date and assess the next steps needed to keep the project

progressing.

Council staff are expected to meet internally to evaluate planning already undertaken and continue positioning the project for future state or federal grant opportunities.

Rather than placing the proposal on hold, Council says planning efforts will continue.

Mayor Krieg said Lismore City Council was already incorporating future rail trail considerations into broader infrastructure planning, particularly

within North Lismore. Council is working to integrate the trail vision into road and infrastructure upgrades where practical, ensuring future works complement the project and reduce delays should funding become available.

“We are continuing to plan ahead so we are ready to move when future funding opportunities arise,” Mayor Krieg said.

The rail trail remains a significant part of Council’s strategic planning framework, with advocates arguing the project has the potential to deliver long-term economic, tourism and social benefits across the Northern Rivers.

Although this week’s funding decision represents a setback, Council maintains the project remains very much alive and that preparations will continue to ensure Lismore is ready when the next funding opportunity emerges.

Troy Cassar-Daley Urges Mob To Get Winter Vaccinations

Early

Country music star backs national campaign encouraging First Nations communities to stay protected this winter

By Jeff Gibbs

As winter approaches and respiratory illnesses begin to rise across Australia, country music legend

Troy Cassar-Daley is encouraging First Nations communities to prepare early and get vaccinated against flu, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

The award-winning singer-songwriter, a proud Gumbaynggirr and Bundjalung man, has joined a new Australian Government winter health campaign aimed at improving awareness about seasonal illnesses and the importance of vaccination.

The campaign comes after Australia recorded its highest number of influenza cases in the past five years, highlighting growing concerns around the impact of winter illnesses on vulnerable Australians.

Troy is urging First Nations people, particularly those aged 50 years and over, to have a conversation with their doctor or health worker about which vaccines may be appropriate before winter conditions intensify.

Winter respiratory illnesses continue to place pressure on communities and health services, with flu, COVID-19 and RSV capable of causing serious complications, particularly

among older Australians and those with underlying medical conditions.

Severe illness can lead to hospitalisation, lengthy recovery periods and, in some cases, death.

Health experts continue to stress that vaccination remains one of the most effective tools available to reduce the risk of severe illness. Vaccines can lower the chance of infection and help reduce symptoms and complications if a person does become sick.

For Troy Cassar-Daley, staying healthy is about more than personal wellbeing.

The touring performer said vaccination allows him to continue doing what he loves while remaining present for

family, community and cultural responsibilities.

“I spend so much time on the road and meeting people at gigs, and I can’t afford to get sick when I’m touring,” Troy said.

“If I go down, everything stops. So for me, getting vaccinated is just part of staying strong and being able to keep doing the things that I love.”

He said staying healthy becomes increasingly important with age.

“As we get older, we’ve got to look after ourselves so we can keep showing up for our loved ones, our Elders and our communities,” he said.

The campaign message — ‘Get ready for winter. Get vaccinated’ — encourages Australians

not to wait until winter illness peaks before seeking protection.

Troy said updated vaccines continue to play an important role in responding to changing strains of respiratory viruses.

“Winter nasties like the flu and COVID-19 are always changing, which is why vaccines are updated to keep fighting them,” he said.

“Staying up to date with your vaccinations, especially if you’re a bit older like me, is one of the best ways we can all remain well and stay ahead of those winter nasties.”

He also encouraged people not to delay seeking advice.

“It’s easy to put these things off, so get in early and have a yarn with your doctor or health worker, and make a plan to get vaccinated now,” he said. Influenza vaccinations remain free and recommended for First Nations people aged six months and older. COVID-19 vaccines are available free for all First Nations people and are recommended for people aged 65 years and over. RSV vaccinations are also available free for eligible First Nations people aged 60 years and older.

Community members are encouraged to speak with their doctor or local health worker to discuss vaccination options ahead of winter.

Paramedic Training Facility Reaches New Heights

By Jeff Gibbs

NSW

Ambulance

helicopter paramedics and doctors are sharpening their lifesaving skills through a new state-ofthe-art rescue training facility at Bankstown Airport.

The Rescue Access Procedural Training

Reinforcement (RAPTR) room has been developed at the Aeromedical Crewing Excellence (ACE) Training Centre to prepare critical care helicopter paramedics, doctors and aircrew for complex rescue operations.

The advanced facility features a realistic helicopter winch simulator mounted eight metres

above the ground, a Mixed Augmented Virtual Reality (MAV) trainer, and a multi-level climbing and abseiling wall designed for vertical and restricted-space rescue training.

The MAV trainer, developed in partnership with the University of NSW, uses mixed-reality technology to immerse

crews in realistic rescue scenarios, allowing them to practise high-risk missions in a controlled environment.

The RAPTR room adds to existing ACE facilities, including an aquatic rescue theatre used for in-water winch rescues and underwater escape training.

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NSW Ambulance aeromedical teams completed more than 5,000 helicopter missions last year and undertake thousands of hours of training annually to maintain their specialist skills.

More than 70 critical care helicopter paramedics operate across NSW from bases including Lismore,

Newcastle, Tamworth, Wollongong, Orange, Sydney and Bankstown.

Health Minister Ryan Park said the enhanced facility strengthens emergency response capabilities and ensures aeromedical crews remain prepared to deliver lifesaving care in the toughest conditions.

Drive So Others Survive: NHVR Urges Safer Choices During Road Safety Week

By Jeff Gibbs

Drivers across the Northern Rivers are being urged to think beyond themselves and consider the impact their decisions behind the wheel can have on others as National Road Safety Week shines a spotlight on reducing road trauma.

This year’s campaign theme — Drive So Others Survive — highlights the shared responsibility of all road users, with the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) encouraging safer driving behaviours to help save lives.

NHVR Chief Operations Officer Paul Salvati said every road user had a role to play in improving safety outcomes on Australian roads.

“Every road user deserves to get home to their family safely, and

both heavy vehicle and light vehicle drivers have a role to play to help make this happen,” Mr Salvati said.

Road safety data continues to show human behaviour remains one of the largest contributors to crashes, with driver distraction, following

too closely and speeding identified among the leading causes of incidents.

Mr Salvati said if motorists considered how their actions affected others, roads could become safer for everyone.

While the campaign applies to all motorists,

the message carries particular importance for heavy vehicle operators, who face additional challenges managing larger and heavier vehicles on highways and regional roads.

Fatigue remains one of the most significant contributors to serious

National campaign reminds all drivers that road safety is a shared responsibility

incidents involving heavy vehicles, with the NHVR urging operators and employers to ensure drivers are properly supported and follow required rest breaks.

“Our entire industry has a part to play in managing fatigue,” Mr Salvati said.

Heavy vehicle drivers who feel pressured to continue driving while fatigued are encouraged to contact the NHVR’s confidential reporting line.

The NHVR also highlighted the importance of education for light vehicle drivers, particularly younger motorists, when sharing the road with trucks.

Figures cited by the regulator suggest that in four out of five fatal crashes involving heavy

vehicles and passenger vehicles, the light vehicle driver is considered at fault.

Trucks require considerably longer distances to stop and have multiple blind spots, creating additional risks for drivers who travel too closely or move around trucks unpredictably.

The NHVR continues to promote its Don’t #uck With a Truck campaign, aimed at educating young motorists on how to safely share roads with heavy vehicles.

As National Road Safety Week continues, authorities are reminding all road users that simple decisions — slowing down, avoiding distractions and staying patient — can save lives.

Council Budget Balances Growth And Cost Pressures Across Richmond Valley

By Jeff Gibbs

Council’s budget aims to balance rising costs with community needs

Richmond Valley Council has unveiled a draft budget designed to balance growing financial pressures with continued investment in infrastructure, housing activation and essential community services across the region.

The Draft Operational Plan 2026–2027 outlines more than $52 million in capital works projects, with significant funding allocated to water, sewerage, roads, drainage and community facilities, while maintaining the long-term financial sustainability of Council operations.

Richmond Valley Council General Manager Vaughan Macdonald said the draft budget had been prepared during one of the most difficult economic periods facing local government in recent years.

He said councils across regional Australia continued to grapple with inflation, supply chain disruption and escalating fuel and construction costs, all of which were placing increased pressure on operational budgets.

Despite these challenges, Mr Macdonald said Richmond Valley Council remained committed to delivering essential infrastructure and services needed to support local communities and encourage economic growth.

Major infrastructure investment planned while Council works to ease financial pressures on the

“This Operational Plan is about continuing to deliver the projects and services our community needs while planning responsibly for the future,” Mr Macdonald said.

He said the past year had seen substantial progress on several major priorities, including disaster recovery works following natural disasters, planning for significant water and sewer infrastructure upgrades, improvements to recreation and sporting facilities and ongoing work to activate the Regional Job Precinct.

According to Mr Macdonald, the coming financial year would continue that momentum, with additional projects

progressing from planning into delivery and further investment targeted toward roads, drainage systems, community facilities and essential public services.

The draft plan also highlights Council’s focus on long-term sustainability and its continued advocacy for external funding to help unlock housing development and major infrastructure projects.

Mr Macdonald said regional councils faced particular financial challenges due to relatively small rate bases and increasing demands to maintain and expand ageing infrastructure networks.

Fuel prices alone are

expected to increase Council operating costs by more than $1 million during the coming year, alongside continued rises in utility expenses, supplier pricing and construction materials.

“We know households and businesses are also facing challenges with rising living costs, and Council has worked hard to strike the right balance between maintaining services, progressing major projects and managing costs responsibly,” he said.

He said Council continued to review all operational areas to improve efficiency and deliver value for money for ratepayers.

community

The Operational Plan has been developed around priorities identified in Richmond Valley’s Community Strategic Plan, with a strong emphasis on maintaining and improving infrastructure and services that support everyday life.

Major infrastructure commitments include $20 million for sewage treatment plant works in Casino and Evans Head, $7.1 million for disaster recovery projects, $4.8 million for the Casino Water Treatment Plant upgrade, and $3.3 million for property and economic development initiatives.

Road and drainage works also feature prominently, including $1.5 million

for the Stratheden Road upgrade, $900,000 for the rural reseal program, $691,000 for Broadwater–Evans Head Road improvements, $660,000 for stormwater drainage upgrades, $602,000 for water main replacements and $567,000 for urban road resealing.

Additional projects include sewer pump station renewals, completion of the Rappville Sewerage Scheme, finalisation of the Richmond Valley Flood Risk Management Plan, upgrades at Stan Payne Oval, completion of the Woodburn clubhouse and Woodburn Oval improvements, rollout of a new mobile library vehicle for rural communities and continued support for the Youth Employment Scheme and Sustainable Communities Strategy. Council also plans to continue delivering major community events, including the popular 2026 Casino Truck Show.

The Draft Operational Plan 2026–2027, together with the Draft Financial Estimates 2026–2030, Draft Revenue Policy 2026–2027 and Draft Long-Term Financial Plan 2026–2036, will be placed on public exhibition on Council’s website for 28 days.

Residents and stakeholders will have the opportunity to review the documents and provide feedback before the plans return to Council for final consideration and adoption at the 30 June Council meeting.

Healthcare Helper Volunteers Sought For Byron Hospital

By Robert Heyward

Community volunteers invited to bring comfort and companionship to local patients

Byron Central Hospital is calling on communityminded residents to become part of a new volunteer initiative designed to support patients and hospital staff through companionship and care.

The Healthcare Helper volunteer program, operated by the Northern NSW Local Health District, is set to begin at Byron Central Hospital and aims to strengthen patient wellbeing through emotional support and engagement.

The program recruits volunteers from the local community to work alongside hospital staff, helping provide comfort and companionship to patients and their families

during hospital stays.

Byron Central Hospital Executive Officer and Director of Nursing Tracey Sheehan said the initiative had already delivered positive outcomes at other hospitals across the district and was expected to make a valuable contribution locally.

Ms Sheehan said volunteers played an important role in supporting both patients and nursing staff, adding that companionship

could make a significant difference to the hospital experience.

The hospital is particularly seeking volunteers to serve as patient companions within the Inpatient Unit, where they will spend time with patients and assist with support and engagement activities.

Inpatient Unit Nurse Unit Manager Emily Duval said volunteers would provide invaluable assistance on the ward.

She said many patients could benefit greatly from social interaction, companionship and enrichment activities while receiving care.

The Healthcare Helper program already has around 150 volunteers supporting hospitals across Northern NSW, including facilities at Tweed Valley, Ballina, Lismore, Grafton, Maclean, Kyogle, Nimbin, Urbenville and Bonalbo.

Hospital representatives are encouraging people

from all backgrounds and age groups to consider volunteering, with no prior experience required. All successful applicants undertake orientation and training to ensure they are prepared and supported in their roles.

The program offers locals an opportunity to give back to the community while helping improve the hospital experience for patients across the Byron region.

I had the honour of opening PRIMEX 2026 in my capacity as NSW Minister for Small Business and Minister for the North Coast, and of course, as the local member.

PRIMEX Director Bruce Wright’s move from Casino to the new home at the Lismore Showground represented a major vote of confidence in Lismore’s future, and the event certainly drew in the crowds.

In an era when so much is done and delivered online, agricultural field days such as this provide an opportunity to see first-hand new developments and innovations for the agriculture sector,and meet the people doing the demonstrations.

The business leaders lunch at Primex on Friday was packed out, showing the level of enthusiasm from the business sector for the event.

In other farming news, I welcome Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty’s

announcement of a $7 million investment to rebuild the cattle tick program. This is something I have been advocating for, over many years, and in consultation with local cattle farmers.

recommendations of the report.

This includes:

• delivering the first Cattle Tick Eradication Action Plan by 30 September 2026

• providing more

The National Liberal Government let the tick program run down and moved away from the goal of eradication, which was of great concern to local beef and dairy farmers as we are so close to the Queensland border. Following on from the Biosecurity Commissioner’s review of the cattle tick program, Minister Moriarty announced the government was committed to all the

support for farmers to understand prevention and management options

• boosting access to veterinary resources

• expanding research into chemical resistance and alternative treatments

I note some National Party MPs say this isn’t good enough, and to that I say they have the hide of a rhino to act as though the Nats had nothing to do with the demise of the tick program.

Local Student Selected For National Youth Parliament 2026

By Jeff Gibbs

A Kingscliff High School student is set to represent the Richmond electorate on the national stage after being selected for the prestigious National Youth Parliament 2026 program in Canberra.

Year 12 School Captain Archie Allsopp (pictured right) has earned a place among just 150 students selected nationwide from more than 2,200 applications, marking a significant achievement for both Archie and the Kingscliff school community.

Delivered by the Department of the House of Representatives in partnership with Y Australia, the National Youth Parliament program offers young Australians an immersive insight into the nation’s democratic and parliamentary systems.

Archie secured his place through a rigorous multistage selection process assessing leadership, civic involvement and community participation.

The five-day residential program will take place in Canberra from August 16 to 20, bringing together one student from each federal electorate across Australia. Participants will engage directly with Australia’s parliamentary processes through simulated debates, workshops with political and parliamentary leaders and practical policy discussions. The experience is designed to deepen understanding of how legislation is developed, debated and passed while strengthening leadership and communication skills.

Relieving Principal

Damien Borg said Kingscliff High School was immensely proud of Archie’s selection and the opportunities it would create.

“This is a fantastic achievement for Archie and a wonderful opportunity to develop leadership skills, confidence and understanding of how our democracy works,” Mr Borg said.

He said Archie’s achievement reflected the goals of Inspire – High Potential and Gifted Education, the NSW Department of Education initiative aimed at creating enriched learning opportunities for students in public schools.

“His selection for National Youth Parliament demonstrates high potential in leadership, civic participation and community engagement, particularly within the social-emotional domain,” Mr Borg said.

“The program’s focus on parliamentary debate, policy discussion and democratic processes provides an enriched opportunity to further develop his intellectual capabilities and talent.”

For Archie, the honour reflects a growing passion for politics and public policy that has developed

since taking on the school captain role.

He said improving opportunities for young people living in regional Australia remained one of his key interests.

“One of the things I’m passionate about is improving opportunities for young people in regional parts of Australia, particularly by enhancing access to education, career pathways and practical courses that can help young people reach their full potential,” Archie said.

“I hope this program will provide me with valuable insight into what a future in that area might look like.”

National Youth Parliament was created to encourage greater civic understanding and participation among young Australians, with organisers aiming to strengthen knowledge of democracy and encourage future leadership. The Department of the House of Representatives and Y Australia say the initiative helps bridge the gap between young Australians and political institutions by giving participants real-world experience inside Parliament House and the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House. Nearly 2,200 applications were received for the inaugural program, highlighting strong interest from students nationwide.

For Kingscliff High School and the broader Northern Rivers community, Archie’s selection is a proud reminder that regional students can stand among the nation’s emerging leaders.

Nimbin Boil Water Alert Continues As Long-Term Water Solution Advances

By Jeff Gibbs

Nimbin residents are being urged to continue boiling water used for drinking and food preparation as Lismore City Council works with NSW Health and specialist contractors to restore full treatment capacity to the village water supply.

The Boil Water Alert remains in place and is

expected to continue for at least another three weeks while daily water quality testing and restoration works continue.

Residents are reminded to boil water for drinking, cooking and food preparation. Council also advises using cooled boiled or bottled water for brushing teeth, washing uncooked food, making ice and for pet drinking water. Tap water remains safe for bathing and

showering, although care should be taken to avoid swallowing water.

temporary treatment system installed following the 2022 floods.

Public health remains priority as Council works on short and long-term water solutions

Lismore City Council’s Director of Water, Waste and Open Spaces, Matt Potter, said the alert was issued as a precautionary measure after recent weather affected the

“We understand this is frustrating and disruptive for the community,” Mr Potter said.

“However, protecting public health must always come first, and boiled

water remains safe for consumption while this alert is in place.”

Recent rainfall and seasonal conditions have increased turbidity levels, meaning more sediment and organic matter in raw water, making treatment more challenging.

Replacement equipment for the temporary treatment plant is now on order and restoration works are expected within three weeks.

Council has also expanded community communication and bottled water continues to be available through the Nimbin Community Centre for vulnerable residents.

Alongside the immediate response, planning continues on a permanent treatment plant for Nimbin, scheduled for completion by December 2027.

Regional Airports Receive $4.8 Million Relief Boost

Funding lifeline helps regional airports manage Rex fallout and maintain vital community connections

By Robert Heyward

Regional and remote airports across Australia are receiving a major financial boost, with the Federal Government delivering $4.8 million in relief funding to help safeguard essential aviation services.

The Australian Government has confirmed 34 regional and remote airports will benefit under the Regional and Remote Airport Support Program, aimed at easing financial pressures linked to the voluntary administration of Rex Airlines.

Many of the airports receiving support are operated by local councils

and play a vital role in connecting communities with healthcare, business opportunities, tourism and family networks. The funding package comes after concerns emerged about debts and financial pressures experienced by airports following Rex Airlines’ financial collapse and subsequent administration process.

Under the program, airports were invited to apply for assistance to help manage eligible debts associated with Rex.

Following assessment of applications, the Government said 95 per cent of claimants met eligibility requirements and received payments

covering 100 per cent of their approved debt obligations.

The funding is designed to provide certainty for airport operators while helping preserve the critical aviation links many regional and remote communities rely upon.

Regional aviation remains a lifeline across large parts of Australia, particularly in rural and isolated areas where road travel can be lengthy and access to major centres limited.

Airports across regional New South Wales and beyond support not only passenger transport but also emergency services, freight, medical transfers and economic activity.

The Government says the airport relief initiative forms part of a broader commitment to strengthening regional and remote aviation infrastructure and services.

Last year, the Federal Government played a role in supporting the sale of Rex Airlines to Air T, helping ensure ongoing aviation services remained available to regional travellers following uncertainty surrounding the airline’s future.

The latest relief payments add to a series of aviation support measures already delivered by Canberra.

These include

commercial lending support, debt restructuring initiatives and infrastructure investment through programs such as the Remote Airstrip Upgrade Program and the Regional Airports Program, which have assisted hundreds of airports and airstrips nationwide.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said maintaining regional aviation services remained a priority.

She said the successful sale of Rex Airlines had helped preserve connectivity for regional

communities and that the latest funding package reinforced the Government’s ongoing support for the aviation sector.

According to the Government, aviation connectivity remains essential to ensuring regional Australia can continue to access services, maintain economic activity and remain connected with the rest of the country. The Government has indicated it will continue working closely with regional and remote communities to support sustainable aviation services and strengthen long-term connectivity.

Byron Central Hospital Celebrates 10 Years Of Care And Community

By Jeff Gibbs

Byron Central Hospital has marked a major milestone, celebrating 10 years of service to the Byron community with staff, healthcare workers and supporters gathering to honour a decade of patient care, medical innovation and community commitment.

The celebration recognised the hospital’s official opening on 7 June 2016, when the modern health facility opened on its Ewingsdale Road site. The hospital brought together healthcare teams and services previously located at Byron Bay District Hospital, Mullumbimby and District Memorial Hospital, along with Community Health services from Bangalow, Brunswick Heads and Ocean Shores.

Over the past decade, Byron Central Hospital has become a vital healthcare hub for the region, recording more than 213,000 Emergency Department presentations and providing thousands of local residents and visitors with access to improved medical services closer to home. Built at a cost of $88 million, the hospital represented a significant investment in healthcare infrastructure for the Northern Rivers. The facility delivered expanded and higher-level services to the region, including a better-equipped Emergency Department, enhanced medical imaging and x-ray capabilities, maternity services featuring inbuilt birthing baths, and a dedicated sub-acute mental health inpatient unit.

Environmental sustainability was also a central feature of the hospital’s design. Byron

Central Hospital was built to high environmental standards and includes motion-activated internal lighting and a substantial 720kW solar photovoltaic

teams, administration staff, ward support personnel and cleaners worked together with a shared goal of delivering quality care.

A decade of compassion, innovation and healthcare excellence in the heart of Byron

system. Over the decade, the solar installation has delivered approximately half a million dollars in electricity savings while reducing greenhouse gas emissions by around 2,000 tonnes.

Northern NSW Local Health District Chief Executive Tracey Maisey praised the hospital’s workplace culture and the dedication shown by staff across every department.

Ms Maisey said the strength of the hospital lay in its collaborative approach, where clinical

She said patient feedback consistently reinforced the hospital’s strong reputation, with independent surveys regularly showing high satisfaction levels and strong cleanliness ratings. Beyond emergency and inpatient care, Byron Central Hospital continues to provide a broad range of Community Health services, which remain a cornerstone of the campus. These include Community Nursing, Child and Family Nursing, Diabetic Education, Cardiac and

Respiratory Rehabilitation, Wound Clinic services, and Adult and Paediatric Community and Allied Health programs.

The hospital has also seen significant growth in its Specialist Palliative Care Service, delivered through nurse practitioners and clinical nurse consultants, alongside expanding Hospital in the Home services, allowing many patients to receive treatment and support in the comfort of their own homes.

Byron Central Hospital Executive Officer and Director of Nursing Tracey Sheehan thanked staff for their dedication and acknowledged those who had devoted decades to healthcare service.

Among those recognised were Rosemary O’Brien, who marked 50 years of service as a registered nurse, alongside Kerry Morrow and Donna

Bonomi Casai with 40 years, and several others with 30 years or more. Adding to the celebrations, Ms Sheehan announced the arrival of the Healthcare Helper volunteer program at Byron Central Hospital, inviting local residents to become involved in supporting patients and staff. The Northern NSW Local Health District initiative recruits volunteers to provide companionship and emotional support to patients and families, with volunteers already working successfully across hospitals throughout the region.

Hospital leaders say the volunteer program represents the next chapter in Byron Central Hospital’s commitment to compassionate, community-focused healthcare.

OBSESSION (2026) REVIEW

Love Was Never Meant To Be Forced

By Jeff Gibbs

Obsession (2026) is one of the most unsettling horror films to arrive this year, blending supernatural terror with psychological tension and uncomfortable emotional truths. Written and directed by Curry Barker, the film turns a familiar “be careful what you wish for” story into a disturbing exploration of love, loneliness and control. The story follows Bear, played by Michael Johnston, a shy music store employee secretly in love with his childhood friend and co-worker Nikki Freeman. Bear has spent years hiding his feelings, watching Nikki from the sidelines and hoping for a relationship that never seems likely. When he discovers a mysterious object called the “One Wish Willow,” Bear makes a desperate

wish — that Nikki will love him more than anyone else in the world. Naturally, the wish comes with terrifying consequences.

Instead of romance, Bear unleashes a nightmare. Nikki’s affection becomes overwhelming, obsessive and dangerously possessive. As her behaviour grows increasingly erratic and violent, Bear realises he has not created love at all — he has destroyed Nikki’s freedom and unleashed something far darker than he ever imagined. The film cleverly uses supernatural horror to examine entitlement and emotional manipulation, giving the story more depth than a standard fright flick.

Michael Johnston delivers a compelling performance as Bear. He avoids turning the character into a simple villain, instead portraying

a lonely and flawed young man whose selfish choices spiral out of control.

Johnston makes Bear believable, even when his actions become increasingly disturbing.

However, the real standout is Inde Navarrette as Nikki. Her performance is chilling, emotional and wildly unpredictable. Navarrette moves effortlessly between warmth, fear and terrifying obsession, creating a character that is both tragic and frightening. Horror fans may well remember her as one of 2026’s breakout “scream queen” performances. Critics have praised her emotional commitment and intense screen presence.

Supporting performances from Cooper Tomlinson as Ian, Megan Lawless as Sarah and comedian Andy Richter help round out the

SPECIAL SCREENINGS

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS M) CULT VAULT Mon: 6:30PM

NOTHING BETWEEN US CTC SPANISH FF PREVIEW Wed: 6:30PM

THE CHRISTOPHERS (MA15+) BRITISH FF PREVIEW Sun: 2:00PM

FAMILY FILMS

THE MAGIC FARAWAY TREE G) Daily: 10:45AM

THE SHEEP DETECTIVES (PG) Daily except Sun: 11:10AM, 1:20PM. Sun: 11:00AM, 1:20PM

ALL FILMS A PRIVATE LIFE M)

Thurs: 12:50PM, 6:15PM. Fri: 12:50PM, 3:20PM. Sat: 6:15PM. Sun: 10:45AM. Mon: 1:20PM. Tues: 12:50PM, 3:15PM. Wed: 1:15PM

BACKROOMS (M NFT Daily: 1:30PM, 3:50PM, 6:10PM

film’s uneasy world. Barker’s direction also deserves praise. Using uncomfortable close-ups, moody lighting and a claustrophobic atmosphere, he creates tension without relying solely on gore or cheap jump scares.

Interestingly, Obsession began as a low-budget independent project and premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival before becoming a breakout horror success. Made for under $1 million, the film proves that creativity and storytelling still matter more than blockbuster budgets.

For Australian audiences who enjoy horror with substance, Obsession delivers more than screams. It is uncomfortable, confronting and emotionally disturbing — exactly the sort of film that stays with you after leaving the cinema.

FINDING EMILY M) NFT Daily except Wed: 11:00AM. Wed: 10:45AM FRANZ (MA15+) Thurs, Sat, Sun: 8:10PM. Mon, Wed: 8:30PM AMRUM M) GERMAN FF RELEASE Thurs, Wed: 10:45AM, 3:20PM, 6:10PM. Fri: 10:45AM, 4:00PM, 6:30PM. Sat: 10:45AM, 3:20PM, 6:00PM. Sun: 1:10PM, 3:20PM, 6:20PM. Mon: 11:15AM, 3:20PM, 6:30PM. Tues: 10:45AM, 3:20PM, 6:20PM

H IS FOR HAWK (M NFT Thurs, Sat, Mon, Tues: 11:20AM, 3:40PM, 6:00PM. Fri: 11:00AM, 3:50PM, 8:30PM. Sun: 11:20AM, 3:40PM, 6:10PM. Wed: 11:20AM, 3:55PM, 6:00PM IN THE GREY (MA15+) Daily except Sun, Tues: 8:30PM. Sun, Tues: 8:20PM MICHAEL PG Daily except Tues: 11:10AM, 1:50PM, 4:15PM, 6:50PM. Tues: 11:10AM, 1:50PM, 3:50PM, 6:50PM

OBSESSION (MA15+ Daily except Sun: 1:00PM, 4:00PM, 8:20PM. Sun: 1:00PM, 3:50PM, 8:20PM

PASSENGER MA15+) Daily: 8:30PM

POWER BALLAD M) NFT Daily except Fri, Sun: 1:45PM, 3:50PM, 6:15PM, 8:20PM. Fri: 1:20PM, 3:30PM, 6:15PM, 8:30PM. Sun: 1:45PM, 4:10PM, 6:15PM, 8:30PM STAR WARS: THE MANDALORIAN AND GROGU (M Daily except Tues: 11:00AM, 1:45PM, 4:30PM, 5:30PM, 7:15PM. Tues: 11:00AM, 1:10PM, 4:10PM, 5:30PM, 8:00PM

THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA 2 (M) Daily except Tues: 11:10AM, 1:40PM, 4:30PM, 7:00PM, 8:15PM. Tues: 10:45AM, 1:40PM, 4:30PM, 7:00PM, 8:15PM THE RICHEST WOMAN IN THE WORLD (M) Daily except Sun: 11:00AM, 1:30PM. Sun: 11:00AM

MICHAEL (PG) Daily except Thurs: 12:00PM, 2:40PM, 7:30PM. Thurs: 12:20PM, 2:40PM OBSESSION (MA15+) Daily except Thurs: 3:00PM, 5:15PM. Thurs: 3:40PM, 5:15PM POWER BALLAD (M) NFT Daily except Thurs: 10:10AM, 5:30PM, 7:40PM. Thurs: 1:30PM, 5:30PM, 7:40PM

STAR WARS: THE MANDALORIAN AND GROGU M) NFT Daily except Thurs: 9:45AM, 12:20PM, 7:30PM. Thurs: 9:45AM, 12:00PM, 7:30PM THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA 2 (M Daily except Thurs: 12:30PM, 3:00PM. Thurs: 11:00AM, 3:00PM THE SHEEP DETECTIVES (PG) Daily except Thurs: 9:45AM, 5:15PM. Thurs: 9:45AM

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.

TIME FOR TRIVIA

1 Montenegro has a coastline on which sea?

(a) Tyrrhenian Sea (b) Labrador Sea (c) Celebes Sea (d) Adriatic Sea

2 In 2015, Australian sports star Ellyse Perry married which member of the Wallabies?

(a) James Slipper (b) Folau Fainga’a (c) Adam Ashley-Cooper (d) Matt To’omua

3 Which play by William Shakespeare contains the line, “All that live must die, passing through nature to eternity”?

(a) King Lear (b) Hamlet (c) Romeo and Juliet (d) Othello

4 Who starred as Michelle Payne in the 2019 movie, Ride Like a Girl?

(a) Teresa Palmer (b) Brooke Satchwell

(c) Sophia Forrest (d) Zara Zoe

5 Which island country was formerly known as New Hebrides? (a) Vanuatu (b) Fiji

(c) Philippines (d) Malaysia

6 What type of creature is the Australian bustard? (a) Cockroach (b) Bird (c) Snake (d) Rabbit

Here is a crossword with a di erence, all the letters of the alphabet are represented by a number in the grid and there are no clues. Some letters have been given as clues to get you started,

WEEKLY CROSSWORD

ALFAKODO

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 DEXTRAL

(a) Skilful

(b) Free from (c) Right-handed

2 GREGARIOUS

(a) Of the reformed Julian calendar

(b) Fond of company

(c) Relating to the wading birds

3 HAPLOID

(a) Single (b) With pleasure

(c) Unfortunate

4 IMMUTABLE

(a) Not readily grasped by the mind

(b) Changeless

(c) Without emotion

5 NIDUS

(a) A cowardly person

(b) The lowest point

(c) A nesting place

BEST ON THE BOX

SATURDAY

SILENT WITNESS

ABC TV, 8.30pm

Crime doesn’t take a day off – not even for the nuptials of slow-burn lovebirds Jack Hodgson and Nikki Alexander (David Caves and Emilia Fox, both pictured) in this two-part season 28 finale. However, the loved-up professionals are as dedicated to the job as they are each other. So as they investigate a mass shooting at a London restaurant, they also discuss their wedding plans, dress choices and Jack’s search for a best man. It’s a delicate dichotomy that demonstrates how the couple’s relationship serves as a vital sanctuary from the horrors they see at work. Joe Absolom (Doc Martin), Amy Nuttall (Downton Abbey) and Karl Collins (The Bill) guest star in this conclusion.

FRIDAY, May 29

SUNDAY SHARK!

NBN, 7pm

With this daring entry, reality TV has officially jumped the shark. Four-time Olympic swimming gold medallist Ariarne Titmus (pictured right), Gold Logie winners Scott Cam and Lynne McGranger, NRL legend Sam Thaiday, actor Matt Nable and influencer Tammy Hembrow are about to come face-to-face with one of the ocean’s greatest predators. With the aim of demystifying these often-misunderstood creatures, the celebrities will be guided by former Australian navy diver and shark attack survivor Paul de Gelder, alongside researcher and photographer Annie Guttridge. Together, they will attempt a series of escalating challenges, working towards their goal: swimming outside a cage with tiger sharks.

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

Shaun Micallef (pictured right) has uncovered several sobering truths behind the glitzy facade of the gambling industry in this insightful docuseries, but Tuesday’s conclusion ups the ante. Visiting a Wollongong family, the comedian finds out if the odds are already stacked against the next generation of Australians, for whom sports matches seem to go hand in hand with advertising and betting. He also spends a baffling afternoon with poker machine influencer Luca Kante and his fans, before heading to Parliament House in Canberra for a chat with independent senator and former Wallabies captain David Pocock about the Murphy Report and gambling reform. For support, call Gambler’s Help (1800 858 858).

(8, 80) 6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Compass. (R) 10.30 Stu The British Stole. (PG, R) 11.00 Restoration Aust. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 The Assembly. (R) 1.45 Bad Company. (M, R) 2.10 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) 3.00 Restoration Australia. (R) 3.55 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. 10.00 Legacy List. (PGa, R) 11.10 Making It. (PG, R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Land Wars. (R) 3.00 Nula. 3.30 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: Malicious Mind Games. (2022, Mav, R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

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

7.30 Gardening Australia. Advice for the home gardener.

8.30 Shetland. (Mv) The search is on for Ian, as Calder and Tosh dig into Annie and Bergen’s relationship.

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

10.05 Urzila. (Mals, R) Urzila’s camping hatred sparks woe.

10.35 ABC Late News.

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

11.40 Love Me. (Mls, R)

1.15 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. Paul Merton travels on the Glacier Express.

8.30 China With Ben Fogle. Ben Fogle journeys through the heart of China.

9.50 Rock Legends: Simple Minds. (PGs, R)

10.15 SBS World News Late.

10.45 The King. (MA15+av)

11.40 Babylon Berlin. (Mav, R)

1.40 Syndrome E. (MA15+s, R) 3.35 Finding Your Roots. (PG, R) 4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6am Morning Programs.

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: The Da Vinci Code. (2006, Mav, R) An academic uncovers a conspiracy while helping investigate a murder inside the Louvre. Tom Hanks, Audrey Tautou, Ian McKellen.

11.00 To Be Advised.

12.35 Quacks. (MA15+dns) John falls in love with a woman from the apothecary.

1.20 Harry’s Practice. (R) Information about pet care.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

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

7TWO (62) VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 1.50pm Kangaroo Beach. 2.45 The Makery. 3.05 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)

9.30 BBC News At Six. 10.00 France 24 English News. 10.30 The Movie Show. 12.15pm DW The Day. 12.45 Red Flag: Music’s Failed Revolution. 2.05 In uencers Debate Masculinity. 3.00 Bamay. 3.40 BBC News At Ten. 4.10 France 24. 4.40 PBS News. 5.35 Inside The Huddle. 6.05 Over The Black Dot. 6.35 Jeopardy! 7.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.25 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Giro d’Italia. Stage 19. 1.35am NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera. 6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Animal Rescue. 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.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 13. Cronulla Sharks v Manly Sea Eagles.

9.55 NRL Friday Night Footy Post-Match. Post-match coverage and analysis of the NRL game between the Cronulla Sharks and Manly Sea Eagles.

10.45 MOVIE: Rambo III. (1988, Mlv, R) Rambo sets out to rescue his former commander. 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)

(5)

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) A couple must bring their house up to date.

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. Comprehensive coverage of local, national and international news, as well as the latest sport and weather.

10.40 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 11.30 10 News+. (R) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

9GO! (83) 6am The Crow’s Egg. Continued. (2014, PG, Tamil) 7.35 The Most Beautiful Day In The World. (2019, PG, Italian) 9.35 Kindred. 11.25 The Thicket. (2024, M) 1.25pm Spear. (2015, M) 3.00 Another Country. (2015, PG) 4.25 The Snow Foxes. (2023, PG) 5.55 The Unknown Country. (2022, PG) 7.30 Haywire. (2011, M) 9.15 Looking Glass. (2017, MA15+) 11.10 Hail, Caesar! (2016, PG) 1.05am The Sweeney. (2012, MA15+) 3.10 The Tracker. (2002, M) 5.00 The Movie Show. 5.35 The Unknown Country. (2022, PG)

6am Morning Programs. 8.30

(52) 7MATE (64) SBS MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 2.15pm ER. 3.00 QI. 3.30 Would I Lie To You? 4.00 MythBusters. 4.50

Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family. 10.30 Bewitched. 11.30 Rugby Heaven. 12.30pm Manifest. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 MOVIE: 17 Again. (2009,

OLIVER HALLOCK

At Amir Prestige, we believe ever y proper ty deser ves a prestige level of ser vice - regardless of price point From the Nor thern Rivers to the Gold Coast, our team delivers the same strategic marketing, premium presentation and client care across ever y campaign Backed by a collaborative database of more than 300,000 qualif ied buyers, we uniquely connect buyers across Queensland and NSW, with our reach and results continuing to set us apar t

Located jus a shor disance from the main CBD, this weatherboard home comprises 2 sp acious bedrooms, lounge room, kitchen with good storge, dining space with combustion heater, 2 bathrooms -1 with bath, 1 with walk in shower and toilet. Separate laund r, 2nd toilet at the rear. North facing sunroom. Solar power system.

Residential lots starting at $420,000 5 acre lots starting at $660,000 Tax concessions on new builds uild your legacy

Lots from 560sqm to 20 hectare

TARGET TIME

E M R

M T N

O E O

Today’s target: 16 words average 23 words good 30+ 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 with Joanne Madeline Moore

ARIES (Mar 21 - Apr 19)

Sunday’s Full Moon encourages you to be more adventurous, as it activates your travel and exploration zones. With ambitious Saturn and intuitive Neptune transiting through your sign, it’s imperative to listen to your inner voice and pursue opportunities when they appear. Be inspired by music pioneer (and fellow Aries) Diana Ross: “You can’t just sit there and wait for people to give you that golden dream. You’ve got to get out there and make it happen for yourself.”

TAURUS (Apr 20 - May 20)

Expect a relationship hiccup or a financial challenge this week, as Saturn squares Venus (your patron planet). With mighty Mars transiting through Taurus (until June 28), it’s nothing you can’t handle as you bolster your Bullish, proactive side. Passionate persistence is the key! Draw inspiration from birthday great Stevie Nicks (who turns 78 on Tuesday): “My life is a testament to believing that if you want something, you can make it happen.”

GEMINI (May 21 - June 20)

With the Sun, Mercury and Uranus visiting your sign, you’re primed to be the most creative and inventive Gemini you can be. Monday is the best day to dream a big dream. Then the Full Moon revs up your relationship zone, so it’s a good weekend to go on a first date, fall in love, do something special with your sweetheart or party with your best friends. Be inspired by Gemini birthday great Stevie Nicks: “I live in the realm of romantic possibility.”

CANCER (June 21 - July 22)

Venus and Jupiter are both jumping through Cancer, so you’re feeling more fortunate and buoyant than usual. However – with Saturn and Neptune transiting through your career and life direction zones – there will still be challenges and disappointments along the way. Don’t give up –keep going! Be inspired by birthday great Kylie Minogue (who’s had a successful career for over 40 years): “I didn’t want to fizzle out. I had to keep going, like a little Shetland pony.”

LEO (July 23 - Aug 22)

During the first half of the week, the Sun (your patron planet) forms fabulous aspects with Neptune and Pluto. So, you’re keen to talk about your grandiose goals, divine dreams and spectacular schemes for the future. But don’t get lost in a quagmire of possibilities. Make sure you walk your talk and put those abstract plans into productive action. Then on Sunday, the fiery Full Moon activates your self-expression zone. So, fortune favours proactive, creative Cats.

VIRGO (Aug 23 - Sep 22)

The Sun, Mercury (your ruling planet) and Uranus are moving through your career zone. So, the focus is on creativity, communication and innovation at work, especially from Monday through until Wednesday. Then the Full Moon lights up your domestic zone on Sunday, when there could be some domestic dramas when a housemate or family member gets fired up and over-emotional. Keep things in perspective and try to maintain your earthy Virgo equilibrium.

LIBRA (Sep 23 - Oct 22)

Classy Librans are the diplomatic divas of the zodiac. And this week – with Venus and Jupiter jumping through your career zone – it’s time to dazzle colleagues, clients and/or customers with your effortless charm, creative talent and natural enthusiasm. If you encounter major hurdles or minor hiccups, use tact and consultation to soothe tempers and build bridges. As birthday great Stevie Nicks observes: “If you are gracious, you have won the game.”

SCORPIO (Oct 23 - Nov 21)

Tuesday’s tricky Mars/Pluto square could stir up friction with your partner or a relative, so try to avoid doing anything that inflames an already volatile situation. Then the terrific Sun/Pluto trine brings the opportunity for healing and transformation, especially at home. Sunday’s Full Moon fires up your finance zone, which could bring money matters to a head. So, the essential qualities you need to get through the week are plenty of patience and diplomacy!

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 - Dec 21)

It’s a big week for bold and boisterous Sagittarians! Midweek looks fabulous as the creative Sun links up with powerful Pluto. So, make sure you are ready, willing and able to capitalise on Lady Luck and Good Karma when they come along, especially in your local community. Then the Full Moon (in your sign) promises a positive, passionate and action-packed weekend. Motivation and energy levels are set on high … and so is your hot-headed impatience.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 - Jan 19)

Your ruler, Saturn, squares Venus (on Friday), and then the Full Moon stimulates your solitude zone (on Sunday). So, self-doubt and your vocal inner critic could cause some frustration and loneliness this week, especially involving a romantic relationship or a family member. Remember –you are loveable for who you are, not what you do. And no one can make you feel bad about yourself without your consent. A double dose of self-belief will see you through.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 - Feb 18)

The fiery Full Moon activates your bohemian side, plus the Sun, Mercury and Uranus stimulate your self-expression zone. So don’t play it too safe –it’s time to do your own thing, in your own highly individual way! Forge your own path and follow your unique dreams. The more adventurous and inventive you are, the luckier you’ll be! Draw inspiration from birthday great, Stevie Nicks (who turns 78 on Tuesday): “I believe in magic and I believe in myself.”

PISCES (Feb 19 - Mar 20)

Is your professional life progressing well? Are you overdue to retrain or keen to apply for voluntary work? Is it time to take on a second job or even change vocation? Avoid resting on your lovely laurels. With the fiery Full Moon energising your career zone, look for practical ways to streamline tasks and manage stress levels. Your mantra is from birthday great, Stevie Nicks: “Dreams do come true, but not without hard work, determination and a little bit of magic.”

Mundi Mundi Bash 2026 Set To Rock The Outback

Australia’s

By Jeff Gibbs

The red dirt of Outback New South Wales is preparing to come alive once again as the 2026 Broken Hill Mundi Mundi Bash gears up to welcome thousands of music lovers for one of Australia’s most unique live entertainment experiences.

Scheduled for August 20–22, 2026, the three-day festival will take place at Belmont Station on the Mundi Mundi Plains, about 35 kilometres north of Broken Hill and just north of Silverton. Organisers expect almost 15,000 people to attend, with tickets already nearing sell-out.

The Mundi Mundi Bash has rapidly established itself as one of Australia’s premier regional festivals, blending major music acts with the unmistakable atmosphere of the outback.

Festival founder Greg Donovan said the event has grown from a bold dream into one of the country’s most celebrated destination music festivals.

Donovan first made his mark with the Birdsville Big Red Bash, famously risking a $300,000 redundancy payout to back the 2015 festival after leaving a successful insurance career.

That gamble paid off.

Today, Donovan’s Outback Music Festival Group runs two of

iconic desert

music festival returns bigger than ever

Australia’s most recognised remote music events, with the Birdsville festival winning Australia’s Best Festival and Event at the 2025 Australian Tourism Awards and the Mundi Mundi Bash continuing to build national acclaim.

The 2026 festival promises one of its strongest line-ups yet.

Headlining the event are The Teskey Brothers, Jon Stevens, John Butler, Boy & Bear, Baby Animals and Jessica Mauboy, alongside a packed program featuring The Whitlams, Leo Sayer, Tim Finn, Richard Clapton, Troy Cassar-Daley, Chocolate Starfish, Furnace and the Fundamentals, Wendy Matthews, Shane Howard, Fanny Lumsden and many more.

Several major artists will be making their Mundi Mundi debut.

Soul favourites The Teskey Brothers will bring their blues-inspired sound to the desert for the first time, while acclaimed guitarist John Butler is preparing for his inaugural appearance, describing the location and line-up as “epic”.

Indie-folk favourites Boy & Bear, pop powerhouse Jessica Mauboy and legendary Australian band The Whitlams will also make first-time appearances.

Meanwhile, returning crowd favourites including Leo Sayer, Richard Clapton, Troy Cassar-Daley and Chocolate Starfish are expected to once again ignite the desert stage. However, the Bash offers far more than music.

Festivalgoers can expect a packed schedule of uniquely Australian

entertainment including the Mad Max Procession, Big Blue Day world record attempt, Mundi Undi charity run, outdoor films, scenic helicopter rides, camel rides, yoga sessions, talent shows and family-

friendly activities.

Importantly, the allages festival remains dog-friendly and easily accessible, with sealed roads now leading almost entirely to the site.

For many travellers, the

$5 MILLION BOOST FOR NATION’S

LARGEST MODULAR SOCIAL HOUSING PROJECT IN SOUTH GRAFTON

A vacant block of land in Armidale Street, South Grafton owned by respected community and aged care housing provider, Clarence Village Limited, will soon house the largest modular social housing project in the nation.

State Nationals MP for Clarence, Richie Williamson, who has backed the project from day one, was delighted to meet on site this morning with the CEO and Chairman of the Board to announce a $5 million funding investment from the NSW Government towards the landmark housing development.

Mr Williamson said it is a very exciting and much-needed housing project for the Clarence Valley, specifically aimed at supporting affordable, purpose-built housing for single older women at risk of homelessness.

“It will deliver 32 new self-contained onebedroom social housing units designed specifically for older residents, with vulnerable single older women prioritised for the new homes,” Mr Williamson said.

The project, being delivered by Clarence Village Ltd in partnership with Homes NSW and Housing Australia, represents a total investment of $14.5 million and is expected to have all buildings constructed and

installed before Christmas, with residents anticipated to receive keys by Easter 2027.

Mr Williamson said the development was a practical response to the growing housing challenges facing regional communities and would help vulnerable residents remain connected to family, friends and local support networks.

“There is a growing need for smaller, affordable and low-maintenance housing options in regional communities like ours, and this development is exactly the type of practical investment we need,” he said.

“For more than 50 years, Clarence Village has played a vital role in providing housing and support for seniors across the Clarence Valley and this project continues that outstanding legacy of care, dignity and community service.”

Clarence Village CEO said the organisation had been working towards delivering seniors housing on the South Grafton site since 2018.

“To make this project happen we’ve become a registered Community Housing Provider and advocated to State and Federal politicians of all parties and persuasions,” Mr McKimm said.

“Having been close to funding many times it

feels a little surreal to now be in a position to build the project, but we’re extremely motivated to get the job done.”

Mr McKimm said the project would provide significant benefits for older residents experiencing housing insecurity.

“The waiting list for single bedroom social housing in Grafton is over 10 years long. This project is going to have a significant impact on the lives of those who might otherwise end up homeless or in residential aged care due to a lack of suitable housing,” he said.

“By co-locating seniors in this development we can build a community that cares for older people in South Grafton. Being able to keep older people safe and connected to their community as they age is a really important part of a civil society.”

Mr McKimm also acknowledged Mr Williamson’s support for the project.

“It would have been easy to throw our hands in the air and say getting funding was all too hard. Richie’s help in getting us access to the NSW Minister for Housing, Rose Jackson to advocate for the project and his encouragement to keep going was critical to getting where we are today,” he said.

“We always say we don’t

need special treatment, we just need to have our case heard. Richie helped us get that and the results are about to be seen in built form.”

Clarence Village Chairman Mark Dougherty said the project reflected the organisation’s strong commitment to the community.

“This project is a great example of the work Clarence Village does, providing 32 safe, affordable homes for older women in a terrific community asset,” Mr Dougherty said.

Homes NSW will purchase 16 units off the plan and lease them back to Clarence Village for 25 years, while the project is also being supported through the Housing Australia Future Fund via concessional loans and availability payments over the same period.

The modular homes are being constructed by Uniplan from Armidale.

Mr Williamson congratulated Clarence Village Ltd, Homes NSW and Housing Australia on working collaboratively to bring the nation-leading project to life.

“This project demonstrates what can be achieved when community organisations and government work together to deliver real outcomes for people in need,” he said.

Lessons on cooking and life

Title: Julie & Julia

Author: Julie Powell

Price: $44.75

Distributor: Booktopia

Subtitled ‘My year of cooking dangerously’, this memoir promises some delicious reading.

It is most likely you have seen the movie before reading the book and let me tell you, the film is a much cleaned up version of its companion in print.

Julie Powell writes with a lot of colourful language but she is funny and honest when it comes to her life.

It’s interesting how people, as they draw nearer to a change of decade, take on new challenges.

For Julie Powell, who is about to turn 30 and sees herself in a dead end career, her project becomes one of cooking

every single recipe in the classic cookbook ‘Mastering the Art of French Cooking’ by the American, Julia Childs. And she has to do this in a year.

Thus begins the craziness of Julie doing her best to recreate all types of aspics, desserts, sweetmeats and the pinnacle lobster dish where she needs to bring home a live creature on New York’s public transport to cook. What could go wrong? Through the journey she discovers plenty about herself and what she is able to achieve. It is a lively and entertaining read but I suggest you don’t do it on an empty stomach.

You can pick up your copy of Julie & Julia from booktopia.com.au

“Leemo has views on just about anything”

‘LEEMO’S’

VISIT TO THE NICE

VET etc.

‘Leemo Cat’ here.

‘Mum Jane’ and her buddie Nellie took me to see the Vet earlier this week. I overheard ALL the dialogue Mum had with the Vet. It went along the lines of Mum saying ‘hello Nice Vet, I have my beloved feline ‘Leemo’ here to get another steroid injection for his cough: BUT of more concernment & panic to me is that he has a ‘FLAP’ kinda THINGIE, sinister, & covered in fur & lumpy, on his back, near his tail. I’ve tried pulling it off but end up with many maul wounds on my hands & arms. Could it perhaps be one of those faps cats get that ve read about?’ Hmmm! Nice Vet had a close inspection of Mum’s described ‘Dangerous Cat Flap’: he didn’t express any sign of alarm & promptly shaved it off in the fic of a cat’s tail, whilst informing ‘Mum Jane’ it was simply matted fur. OMG! Nice Vet also told Mum that ‘skin faps (medically nown as the Primordial Pouch) will generally occur only in the underside of the cat’s belly toward the rear near the hind legs, NOT on their back. We departed the Vet surgery in solid silence after the Nice Vet put my cage in the car ( probly saying under his breath ‘Whew, she’s gone!) I, Leemo, SPOKE tersely on the way home. ‘Mum Jane, whilst you know I hold you in great esteem & admire your fact fnding missions via reading & what people tell you, ( believing ALL OF IT)

like the mating habits of feas to fermented fsh cabbage pickle recipes; my astute feline brain tells me YOU ARE TOTALLY GULLIBLE & I’VE TOLD YOU THIS MANY TIMES BEFORE!! At times, you turn situations that are perfectly plausible into dramas. Gottit?’ So, Mum, I blessedly have no idea WHAT on earth you were reading when you concluded I had a cancerous fap: I would prefer you discuss your envisioned scenarios with me & ask about stuff (NOT call Aunty Cay in panic) before dragging me off to the Nice Vet with MY Will in your handbag, which, Mum, I found exceedingly offensive. Oh dear. Mum went into a scowling postmenopausal sulk 25 yrs after that event. I decided to ask a question ‘Can we go home & pick up my Kelpie costume & then go to PRIMEX so I can round up cows & sheep?’ Mum scowled more & told me to stop being preposterous ‘cos PRIMEX is about tractors & stuff not cows & sheep. Hmmm! ‘Well Mum, might I inform you that humans are way up there in their ongoing efforts to be something they’re NOT! If I wanna pretend to be a kelpie & round up tractors what’s the big deal? Humans do it every day and it’s called PRETENSION without realising that this state of thinking is the enemy of their own happiness & creativity & ability to be content with simply who they are in their lives: like me ‘longing’ to be a Kelpie!’ Ooooh…I got a soft smile from the old lady. ‘Never mind Leems my beautiful boy. It wouldn’t have worked ‘cos I made your Kelpie costume out of crepe paper, and with the rain, you would have looked dreadful, the paper would have melted & stuck to you then fell off. Shall I prepare you some treats Leems?’ I knew she was ‘sucking up’ but agreed – ‘ til next time. Nite Leemo with purrsies.

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

COUNCILS ARE NOT BUSINESSES - according to Sandelins

With due respect Sir, Mr Sandelinds, you are the one who has missed the point entirely. Councils ARE businesses. When anything is done, made or achieved it has to be paid for - basic business principles. Councils, do, make, and achieve, all in the interest of the public, and many of the recipients are not direct ratepayers. The council primarily exists as a business money manager. They must diligently manoeuvre their fnancial expertise to provide the wants and expectations, social commitments, promises, overheads and everything else they are expected to achieve by usually an uninformed public. Financially delivering the wants of the masses requires councils to employ the best quality operational staff and having facilities, utilities & plant & equipment well up to the tasks demanded. When councils are functioning as a well oiled cost business they give the public what is expected of them.

N. Murray Broadwater - 84 years old. Resident 20 years.

DEVELOPMENT

CONDITIONS MUST BE ENFORCED

The article about the Yamba mega-development and its 194 conditions for approval shows exactly why many residents no longer trust large planning decisions. If a project needs almost 200 conditions to make it acceptable, perhaps it is too large in the frst place. Communities are often told developments will bring jobs and growth, but locals are left dealing with traffc,

overcrowding and pressure on services. Council and the State Government must ensure every condition is strictly monitored and enforced, not quietly forgotten once construction begins.

P. Henderson Yamba

A BOOST FOR THE REGION

I support the Yamba housing project because we desperately need more homes across the Northern Rivers. Young families are struggling to buy or rent while population growth continues. While concerns about infrastructure are understandable, refusing every major development is not the answer either. Properly managed growth can strengthen regional towns and create opportunities for local businesses.

J. Carlisle Maclean

NORCO DESERVES THE PRAISE

It was wonderful to read about Norco once again being named Australia’s favourite fresh milk brand. Unlike many multinational corporations, Norco still represents local farmers and regional communities. Consumers clearly recognise quality and loyalty when they see it. The company has survived foods, changing mar ets and ferce competition, yet continues to deliver excellent products while supporting Northern Rivers dairy families.

S. Whitmore Lismore

DON’T TAKE LOCAL FARMERS FOR GRANTED

Norco’s latest award is fantastic news, but it should also remind Australians how fragile our dairy industry has become. Supermarkets continue squeezing farmers while imported products food the mar et. f shoppers genuinely value local agriculture, they must be prepared to support Australian-owned brands instead of chasing the cheapest option every week.

A. Tisdale Alstonville

BEEF WEEK JUST GETS BIGGER

The Jack Link’s “Tower of Beef” promotion sounds like exactly the sort of fun regional event that puts Casino on the map nationally. Too often city people dismiss country festivals, but Beef Week showcases agriculture, tourism and community pride all at once. The million-dollar giveaway will attract visitors and boost local accommodation, cafés and shops during diffcult economic times.

D. Kellaway Kyogle

COMMUNITY COLLEGES MATTER

The Byron Community College courses highlighted in the paper show why adult education remains so valuable. Not every learning opportunity needs to be university-based or career-driven. Courses in sewing, art therapy, welding

and photography help people reconnect socially, improve wellbeing and develop practical skills. These programs strengthen communities just as much as formal education pathways.

T. Callaghan Byron Bay

LEARNING SHOULD BE AFFORDABLE

I was impressed by the range of community courses advertised, but some of the prices would place them beyond the reach of pensioners and low-income residents. Lifelong learning is important, yet affordability remains a challenge in the Northern Rivers where many households are already under fnancial pressure.

R. Ellison Murwillumbah

GREAT TO SEE POSITIVE BUSINESS NEWS

So much media coverage focuses on closures, downturns and economic struggles that it was refreshing to read positive stories about Norco and regional investment. Good news matters too. Regional businesses succeeding on the national stage provide confdence for younger people considering careers and futures outside major cities.

L. Harding Ballina

CONDITIONS ARE ONLY AS GOOD AS ENFORCEMENT

Reading through the details of the Yamba approval process left me wondering how local councils can realistically monitor so many separate conditions. Residents have every right to question whether environmental protections, road upgrades and drainage requirements will still be followed years after the headlines disappear.

C. Monaghan Iluka

COUNTRY EVENTS KEEP TOWNS ALIVE

Casino Beef Week is far more than entertainment. Events like this sustain regional economies during diffcult periods and give local sporting groups, schools and charities opportunities to raise funds. Visitors who come for the festival often return later as tourists. People underestimate how important these celebrations are for rural communities.

B. Fraser Evans Head

A REMINDER OF REGIONAL RESILIENCE

Norco’s continued success after everything local dairy farmers have faced over the years is remarkable. Floods, droughts, rising costs and supermarket pressure would have broken many companies. The award proves that resilience and quality still count for something in Australia.

K. Draper Grafton DEVELOPMENT MUST MATCH INFRASTRUCTURE

Supporters of large housing estates always speak about “growth”, but rarely explain how existing roads, schools

and hospitals will cope. The Yamba project may deliver housing, but residents deserve guarantees that essential infrastructure will expand as well.

E. Latham Tweed Heads

CELEBRATING LOCAL SUCCESS STORIES

I appreciated the paper covering positive local stories instead of only focusing on politics and confict. Seeing Northern Rivers businesses recognised nationally lifts community morale and reminds us there are still many reasons to be proud of our region.

N. Gallagher Woolgoolga

KEEP AGRICULTURE FRONT AND CENTRE

The Beef Week coverage was excellent because it recognised the importance of agriculture to our economy and identity. Farming communities often feel forgotten by governments until election time. Festivals like Beef Week give producers the recognition they deserve.

F. Murray Tenterfeld

YAMBA RISKS LOSING ITS CHARACTER

People move to Yamba because of its relaxed coastal atmosphere and natural beauty. Massive developments threaten to transform the town into another overcrowded urban centre. Growth is inevitable, but preserving local character should remain a priority.

G. Holloway Yamba

A WELL-DESIGNED NEWSPAPER

The Northern Rivers Times deserves credit for presenting such a wide mix of local stories, community features and regional events in an accessible way. Many country newspapers have disappeared or shrunk dramatically, so it is pleasing to see a publication still investing in local journalism.

V. Simmonds Alstonville

SUPPORT LOCAL EDUCATION OPTIONS

The community college programs advertised prove regional residents do not have to travel to big cities to access quality learning opportunities. These courses also encourage creativity and social interaction, which is especially valuable for retirees and people living alone.

H. Ridley Bangalow

BIG BUSINESS SHOULD GIVE BACK

If major companies are using regional festivals for publicity, they should also ensure meaningful support fows bac into the communities hosting those events. Sponsorship banners are welcome, but long-term investment in local jobs and services matters more.

Y. Brennan Woodburn

DAIRY FARMERS

DESERVE FAIR

RETURNS

Awards for Norco are excellent, but they mean little if dairy farmers still struggle fnancially. Consumers say they value Australian products, yet many continue buying whichever milk is discounted. Supporting local farmers requires action, not just words.

P. Keegan Nimbin

REGIONAL TOURISM IS ESSENTIAL

Large festivals like Beef Week help remind Australians that regional tourism is one of the Northern Rivers’ strongest industries. Every visitor spending money in local shops and accommodation supports employment across the entire community.

I. Mercer Lennox Head

CONCERNS ABOUT OVERDEVELOPMENT

The scale of some proposed developments across the coast is alarming. Environmental studies and conditions can only do so much if natural systems are pushed beyond their limits. Once wetlands and bushland disappear, they rarely return.

D. Fairweather Pottsville

GOOD TO SEE FARMEROWNED COMPANIES THRIVING

Norco’s recognition stands out because it remains farmerowned in an era dominated by giant corporations. That co-operative model deserves greater public support because profts are returned to regional producers rather than overseas shareholders.

S. Oakley Bangalow

THE AUTO INDUSTRY IS CHANGING FAST

Jeff Gibbs’ motoring section highlights how quickly the automotive world is evolving. Electric vehicles, hybrids and advanced safety technology are transforming what drivers expect from modern cars. While some people resist change, it is important regional motorists stay informed about the future of transport and how it will affect running costs and travel.

R. Whitton Bonalbo

KEEPING SMALL TOWNS RELEVANT

Regional festivals, community education and strong local businesses all contribute to keeping smaller towns vibrant and attractive. Without those opportunities, younger residents would continue leaving for capital cities in even greater numbers.

A. Whelan Urbenville QUESTIONS STILL REMAIN

Despite the extensive approval conditions attached to the Yamba project, many residents are still left asking whether the development is truly sustainable in the long term. Decision-makers should not dismiss community concerns simply because legal approval has now been granted.

R. Whitaker Brunswick Heads

THANK YOU TO LOCAL VOLUNTEERS

Events like Beef Week only succeed because of hundreds of volunteers working behind the scenes. Sponsors may attract attention, but volunteers are the people directing traffc, organising stalls and cleaning up afterwards. They deserve recognition every year.

C. Hargreaves Iluka

PRACTICAL MOTORING COVERAGE

The motoring page continues to be one of the most enjoyable parts of the paper each week because it focuses on practical information instead of unrealistic luxury vehicles most Australians will never own. Regional readers appreciate honest reviews that consider fuel economy, towing ability and reliability for country driving conditions.

B. Lancaster Suffolk Park

REGIONAL MEDIA STILL MATTERS

The mix of local business stories, development debates and community events in this edition shows why regional newspapers remain important. Social media rumours can never replace proper local reporting and accountability

journalism.

M. Penrose South Grafton

SAVE OUR SMALL HOSPITALS

The article highlighting pressure on regional health services should concern every Northern Rivers resident. Small hospitals are often treated like optional extras by governments focused on major cities, yet they are lifelines during emergencies. People living in rural communities deserve reliable healthcare close to home, not endless travel for treatment.

T. McMahon Maclean

GREAT PROMOTION FOR THE REGION

The stories promoting local tourism and events are exactly what this region needs. Too often the Northern Rivers only receives media attention during disasters or political disputes. Positive coverage encourages visitors to return and reminds locals how fortunate we are to live in such a beautiful part of Australia.

L. Vardon Ballina

OVERDEVELOPMENT FEARS ARE REAL

Developers always promise jobs, housing and prosperity, but local residents are the ones left dealing with overcrowded roads and environmental damage. Once coastal towns lose their natural charm, they rarely get it back. Councils need to stop approving oversized projects simply because investors demand them.

P. Redfern Yamba

A STRONG COMMUNITY SPIRIT

Reading about volunteers and community fundraising efforts once again proved how resilient Northern Rivers communities remain. During foods, droughts and diffcult economic periods, ordinary people continue stepping forward to help neighbours without expecting recognition.

J. Carmody Lismore

KEEP SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESS

The feature on regional

businesses succeeding despite rising costs was encouraging. Shopping locally keeps money circulating within our towns and helps small operators survive against huge national chains. Residents cannot complain about empty main streets if they continue spending elsewhere.

R. Wilcox Gtrafton

TOO MANY EMPTY PROMISES

I found some of the political commentary in this edition frustrating because regional voters keep hearing the same promises before every election. Roads, housing and health services are discussed repeatedly, yet meaningful improvements arrive very slowly.

D. Kershaw Grafton

COUNTRY EVENTS DESERVE MORE FUNDING

Regional festivals and agricultural events generate tourism, employment and community pride, yet organisers constantly struggle for funding. Governments happily support large city events but often overlook the economic contribution made by country festivals.

S. Hanley Kyogle

A CREDIT TO LOCAL JOURNALISM

This newspaper continues covering stories that larger media outlets completely ignore. Local journalism still matters because regional communities deserve reporting focused on their concerns rather than endless celebrity gossip and capitalcity politics.

M. Tolliver Evans Head

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION MUST COME FIRST

Some developments may create short-term profts, but environmental damage lasts for generations. Wetlands, wildlife corridors and coastal bushland cannot simply be replaced once destroyed. Decision-makers must place sustainability ahead of quick fnancial gains.

C. Donahue Iluka

Without places…

by Nigel Dawe

“Without places,” once said Georges Poulet, “people would be merely abstractions, it is places that make their image precise.” While this might profoundly be the case, the opposite is also puzzlingly true. Without people, places would be merely unobserved features in nature; unnamed locations residing in time without any reference to anything other than their own incomprehensible presence.

One case in point, and a great place to start; for many years I thought Byron Bay was named after the English poet Lord Byron, the same Lord Byron (who was referred to by the wife of the one-time British PM – Lord Melbourne, as “mad, bad, and dangerous to know”, and having had an affair with Byron, she was quite well placed to know). But Byron Bay is actually named after the poet’s grandfather John Byron, or ‘Foul-Weather Jack’ as he was referred to in the press when he was a royal navy officer during the American War of Independence. He was also the first explorer to successfully circumnavigate the globe in a timeframe of less than two years.

John Byron was lucky to have lived long enough to set his inter-ocean crossing record, as he survived a shipwreck off the coast of Chile when he was still a teenage midshipman. While Lord Byron never met his grandfather (‘FoulWeather Jack’ died two years before he was born in 1788), the poet was very proud of him, and even once said, “He had no rest at sea, nor I on shore.” It was none other than Captain Cook who named the most eastern

tip of the Australian mainland, Cape Byron in 1770. Incredibly, Lord Byron was born just four days before Arthur Phillip raised the Union Jack in Sydney Harbour, thereby proclaiming, albeit commandeering the new colony on behalf of the English crown in 1788.

While we all know and refer to this country as ‘Australia’, what many of us might not know is the backstory as to how this came about, and even what it might have otherwise been known as. In 1616, the very same year that William Shakespeare died, a Dutch vessel named ‘Eendracht’ (which translates to ‘unity’, and captained by Dirk Hartog) made landfall in Western Australia. The landmass was subsequently called ‘Eendrachtsland’, after the ship. But from 1644, it would then become known as ‘New Holland,’ thanks to the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman, who charted much of our western and northern coastlines.

However, it was Matthew Flinders who initially ‘floated’ the idea of Australia, after being the first seaman to circumnavigate the country in 1801-03.

He wrote to Sir Joseph Banks the following year enclosing his map of our island continent (which he labelled – A chart of Terra Australis or Australia), it was also the first map to show it as a single landmass. The name ‘Australia’ wasn’t officially adopted until 1824, ten years after Flinders had passed away. But as Lord Byron himself had once hinted, “The power of thought is the magic of the mind… The best prophet of the future is the past.”

Aged Care Advocates Welcome New Protections But Warn Of Cost Risks

By Jeff Gibbs

Advocates for older Australians have welcomed new protections being introduced under the Federal Government’s Support at Home program, while warning delays to promised pricing caps could leave many seniors exposed to rising costs and continued uncertainty.

The Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) says the additional safeguards are a positive step but do not fully resolve ongoing concerns surrounding affordability and pricing certainty for older people accessing care services at home.

Concerns remain as delay to pricing caps leaves older Australians facing uncertainty

However, concerns remain that national reporting alone may not provide enough information for older Australians trying to compare service costs in their local communities.

aligned to cost pressures such as CPI, there is a real risk that package values will not keep pace with rising service costs,” Ms Edmonds said.

OPAN Director of Policy, Education and Systemic Advocacy, Samantha Edmonds, said delaying the introduction of pricing caps risked creating further pressure at a time when many older Australians were already facing significant financial challenges.

“We welcome stronger oversight and transparency measures, but the decision to delay pricing caps means older people will continue to face uncertainty about what they will pay for essential services,” Ms Edmonds said. She said access to

affordable care remained critical as cost-of-living pressures continued affecting households across Australia.

OPAN welcomed several measures within the Government package, including stronger powers for regulators to order refunds, expanded public reporting and

the introduction of quarterly national pricing summaries.

Additional funding for advocacy and education services was also supported, with the organisation saying older Australians needed greater support to understand their rights and challenge unfair fees.

Ms Edmonds said local pricing transparency would help people make informed choices about providers and improve competition within the sector.

OPAN has also renewed calls for Support at Home package values to be indexed against cost pressures such as inflation, warning that failure to do so could reduce the amount of care people are able to access over time.

“Without indexation

The advocacy group will participate in a newly announced government working group alongside aged care sector organisations aimed at helping define what constitutes reasonable pricing under the Support at Home program.

With reforms continuing to evolve, advocates say getting pricing settings right will be critical in ensuring older Australians can access affordable, quality care while maintaining confidence in the aged care system

Disability Inclusion Events Coming To Northern Rivers

By Jeff Gibbs

People living with disability across the Northern Rivers are being encouraged to attend a series of free community events next month designed to strengthen inclusion, advocacy and support networks throughout the region.

The two-day initiative, titled Disability Inclusion

Matters in Northern Rivers, will be delivered by Physical Disability Council of NSW in partnership with locally based Disability Advocacy NSW.

Events will take place in Tweed Heads on June 3 and Lismore on June 4, bringing together people with disabilities, parents, carers and disability service providers for workshops, networking

opportunities and community consultations.

Organisers say the events

empowered while also giving participants an opportunity to directly

Free workshops and community sessions aim to empower people living with disability across the region

are aimed at helping people with disability feel more connected, informed and

influence future advocacy work.

The Physical Disability Council of NSW, commonly known as PDCN, is the peak body representing people with physical disability across New South Wales and has long campaigned for improved accessibility, healthcare and support services.

Chief Executive Officer Ed Morris said regional communities often faced greater barriers when accessing disability services and support.

“We are committed to travelling across NSW and collaborating with organisations on the ground in regional and

remote areas to better engage with, empower and represent the physical disability community in each place,” Mr Morris said.

“Your voice does and will make a difference.”

One of the organisation’s recent success stories involved Tanya, a young stroke survivor who struggled for more than two years to gain access to the National Disability Insurance Scheme.

With support from PDCN peer mentor Adrian O’Malley, Tanya was eventually approved for vital NDIS support and has since returned to the workforce.

PDCN says stories like Tanya’s highlight the importance of lived experience advocacy and peer support.

The organisation has also secured several major advocacy wins in recent years, including a $15 million NSW Government funding package to improve wheelchair accessible taxis

and commitments toward developing the state’s first Disability Health Strategy.

The Northern Rivers events will feature interactive workshops, networking sessions and “meet and mingle” opportunities designed to encourage connection and open discussion.

Morning teas, lunches and afternoon teas will also be provided.

Importantly, participants with lived experience of disability will be invited to contribute during community consultation sessions that will help shape future advocacy priorities taken to local, state and federal governments.

Spaces for the consultation sessions are limited and organisers are encouraging early registrations.

People with disabilities, parents and carers can register online or contact organisers directly for further information.

*Name changed for privacy.

Housing Market Feeling Heat From Global Pressures

RBA warns overseas tensions and inflation risks could reshape Australia’s housing outlook

By Jeff Gibbs

Australia’s housing market is facing renewed pressure as global economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions begin filtering through to local borrowing conditions, with the Reserve Bank of Australia warning overseas events are increasingly influencing the outlook for homeowners and buyers.

While property prices across many parts of Australia have remained resilient in recent years, new concerns are emerging around inflation, borrowing costs and the broader impact of instability in the Middle East.

The Reserve Bank has indicated that international tensions have the potential to place fresh pressure on inflation, particularly through rising energy and fuel prices. As oil

and transport costs rise globally, businesses often face increased operating expenses which eventually flow through to households.

Those pressures may appear distant at first, but economists say they can quickly influence everyday Australians through higher costs and changes in financial conditions.

The housing market often becomes one of the first areas to feel the impact.

Higher inflation can lead to tighter monetary settings and elevated interest rates, increasing mortgage repayments and reducing borrowing capacity. When buyers can borrow less money, demand can soften and housing activity may slow.

Recent Reserve Bank commentary suggests tighter financial conditions are already beginning to affect the economy,

with many households continuing to adjust to higher mortgage repayments and cost-ofliving pressures.

For many prospective buyers, affordability was already a challenge before global events added further uncertainty.

Across major cities and many regional areas, housing values have remained elevated while supply shortages continue placing upward pressure on prices. The result has been a market where buyers are already stretched financially and sensitive to any change in interest rates. The latest concerns are emerging as many Australians had hoped financial conditions would gradually improve during 2026.

Instead, international developments are creating new uncertainty around

inflation and future rate decisions.

Property analysts say uncertainty can affect behaviour almost as much as interest rate movements themselves.

Periods of instability often see buyers delay major financial decisions while they assess where the market may be heading. Investors can also become more cautious, waiting for stronger economic signals before expanding property portfolios.

This can reduce market activity and slow momentum.

However, there are several factors continuing to support Australia’s housing market.

Population growth remains strong, migration levels continue to increase

and housing supply shortages persist in many regions.

In parts of regional Australia, including lifestyle destinations and growth corridors, demand continues to outpace available stock.

That imbalance between supply and demand has helped support property values despite economic uncertainty.

Some analysts point out that previous global disruptions — including economic downturns, pandemics and international crises — created fears of major housing corrections that never fully materialised.

Instead, the Australian market often demonstrated resilience due to chronic undersupply and strong

population growth.

Still, economists warn the current situation presents a unique combination of challenges.

Inflation pressures, international conflict, fuel costs and borrowing conditions are all interacting simultaneously.

For homeowners and buyers, it is a reminder that events occurring thousands of kilometres away can eventually affect local mortgage repayments and housing confidence.

The message from the Reserve Bank appears increasingly clear: global events no longer stay overseas.

They are now part of Australia’s property conversation.

Negative Gearing Changes Could Slash Investor Borrowing Power

By Jeff Gibbs

Australia’s proposed negative gearing reforms could significantly reduce borrowing power for property investors, with one mortgage broker warning some buyers may lose up to 20 per cent of their lending capacity under the Federal Budget changes.

The 2026–27 Federal Budget outlines major reforms from July 1, 2027, limiting negative gearing benefits to newly built homes. Investors purchasing established properties after Budget night will no longer be able to offset rental losses against wage and salary income.

Sydney mortgage broker and Eventus Financial founder Alex Veljancevski said many investors do not realise lenders currently

factor future negative gearing tax benefits into borrowing assessments.

negative gearing benefits are included.

Without those benefits, borrowing capacity falls to approximately $600,000 — a reduction of about $150,000.

affordability for owneroccupiers and support more first-home buyers entering the market.

“Most people think negative gearing is simply a tax refund at the end of the financial year, but lenders actually use those projected tax benefits to increase borrowing capacity upfront,” Mr Veljancevski said.

Using an example of a single applicant earning $100,000 annually with no debts or rent obligations, he said the difference was substantial.

Under current settings, the borrower could potentially access around $750,000 for an investment loan when

“That is effectively a 20 per cent reduction in borrowing power despite no change to income, expenses or interest rates,” he said. The warning comes as investors are already dealing with the impact of higher interest rates, which have steadily reduced borrowing capacity in recent years.

Mortgage broker warns Budget reforms may lock investors out of the market

The Federal Government says the reforms are designed to improve

However, Mr Veljancevski warned there could be unintended consequences for rental supply if fewer investors qualify for loans.

“The government is banking on new builds filling the gap, but that transition will take time,” he said.

Industry observers expect investor activity may increase ahead of the July 2027 implementation date as buyers seek to secure established properties before the new rules begin.

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

Nvidia Smashes Expectations As AI Boom Accelerates

By Jeff Gibbs

Technology giant Nvidia has once again stunned global financial markets after delivering quarterly earnings that exceeded expectations by billions of dollars, reinforcing its position at the centre of the worldwide artificial intelligence boom.

The California-based chipmaker reported first-quarter revenue of more than $US81 billion, representing an extraordinary 85 per cent increase compared with the same period last year. The result comfortably surpassed Wall Street forecasts and highlighted the enormous global demand for artificial intelligence infrastructure and advanced computing power.

Nvidia has become one of the most influential companies in the world due to its dominance in graphics processing units, commonly known as GPUs, which power many of the advanced AI systems used by companies including OpenAI, Microsoft, Google and Meta.

The company’s market value has surged to around $US5.4 trillion, making it

the world’s most valuable publicly listed company and a major indicator of broader confidence in the technology sector.

Chief executive Jensen Huang described the current expansion of AI infrastructure as “the largest infrastructure expansion in human history”.

Nvidia’s booming performance was driven largely by explosive growth in its data centre division, which generated more than $US75 billion in quarterly revenue as global technology companies continue investing heavily in AI systems and cloud

also

World’s

most valuable chipmaker posts massive earnings as artificial intelligence spending surges worldwide

announced an enormous $US80 billion share buyback program and sharply increased its quarterly dividend, further rewarding investors who have helped drive Nvidia shares to record highs.

cautiously following Nvidia’s outlook for the current quarter.

While the company forecast second-quarter revenue of around $US91 billion — still above analyst expectations

— some investors had anticipated even stronger guidance given the unprecedented enthusiasm surrounding artificial intelligence.

Financial analysts say expectations surrounding Nvidia have become exceptionally high after several years of explosive growth fuelled by the AI revolution.

There are also growing concerns about competition within the semiconductor sector.

Technology giants including Amazon, Google and Microsoft are increasingly developing

their own AI chips to reduce reliance on Nvidia products, while competitors such as AMD and Intel continue expanding their own artificial intelligence offerings.

Geopolitical tensions are also creating uncertainty.

United States export restrictions on advanced chips to China continue affecting Nvidia’s access to one of the world’s largest technology markets. Company executives confirmed no Hopper data centre products were shipped to China during the latest quarter due to ongoing trade restrictions.

Despite those challenges, analysts say Nvidia remains the clear leader in AI computing.

The company’s chips are now considered critical infrastructure in the rapidly expanding artificial intelligence sector, which many economists believe could reshape industries ranging from healthcare and finance to defence, transport and education.

Investors increasingly view Nvidia as far more than a semiconductor company.

It has effectively become one of the central pillars of the global AI economy.

Business Groups Question Tax Productivity Impact

By Jeff Gibbs

The Federal Government is facing mounting pressure to explain how its sweeping tax reforms will improve Australia’s productivity, with business groups warning the changes could discourage investment, reduce economic activity and place further strain on an already fragile economy.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers has defended the Budget’s overhaul of capital gains tax concessions, negative gearing and trust taxation as necessary reforms designed to “rebalance” the tax system and improve housing affordability.

However, industry leaders and investment groups are increasingly questioning whether the measures could unintentionally damage productivity and long-term economic growth.

The concerns centre around major changes announced in the 2026–27

Federal Budget, including restrictions on negative gearing for established properties and the replacement of the longstanding 50 per cent capital gains tax discount with a new indexation-based system.

Business groups argue the changes could reduce incentives for investment, entrepreneurship and risk-taking at a time when Australia is already struggling with weak productivity growth.

Productivity — the ability to generate more economic output from the same amount of labour and resources — has become one of the biggest economic concerns facing Australia.

Economists warn weak productivity growth can lead to slower wage growth, reduced business investment and weaker long-term living standards.

Several industry groups are now calling on the

Treasurer to release detailed modelling showing how the reforms are expected to improve productivity and economic performance.

Critics argue taxing investment assets more heavily may discourage Australians from investing in shares, businesses and property development, reducing the capital available to drive economic expansion.

There are also concerns the changes could impact small business owners and start-up companies that rely on investment capital to grow.

Some investors fear higher effective tax rates on capital gains may make Australia less competitive compared with other investment markets overseas.

Opposition politicians have also intensified criticism of the reforms, claiming the measures risk increasing rental pressures and slowing housing

construction if investor activity falls too sharply.

The Government, however, insists the reforms are aimed at creating a fairer tax system by shifting advantages away from asset ownership and toward workers and younger Australians struggling to enter the housing market.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers has repeatedly argued the current tax system disproportionately favours wealth generated from assets over income earned through labour.

The Budget also includes several measures designed to offset cost-of-living pressures, including tax relief for workers and expanded deductions for employment-related expenses.

Supporters of the reforms argue reducing tax incentives tied to speculative investment could help redirect capital into more productive sectors

of the economy over time.

However, economists say the success of the reforms will depend heavily on how investors, businesses and financial markets respond over the next several years.

The debate is expected to intensify as the legislation moves through Parliament, with housing affordability, productivity and economic growth now emerging as central political battlegrounds ahead of the next federal election.

DROUGHT AND AGRICULTURE IN CONTRAST

Rainfall

• The immediate rain systems in late May should help maintain moisture levels.

• However, the broader June to August outlook suggests below-average rainfall is more likely across much of eastern Australia,

What To Expect Into June And Winter

including parts of NSW.

• For coastal areas such as the Northern Rivers, there is not a strong signal for prolonged wet weather, meaning rainfall may arrive through isolated coastal troughs or fronts rather than sustained rain periods. Temperatures

• Winter temperatures are expected to trend warmer than average, with both daytime and overnight temperatures likely to sit above normal levels.

• Warmer conditions can dry paddocks faster between rainfall events, particularly on lighter soils and exposed country.

Seasonal Drivers

• Climate agencies are closely watching developing El Niño conditions in the Pacific, which can favour drier weather across eastern Australia, particularly later in winter and spring. The signal is still evolving and

not yet locked in.

Northern Rivers Bottom Line

The outlook beyond May 28 is not pointing to major rain events or a wet winter pattern at this stage. Instead, the region appears headed for a mixed early winter — useful showers at times, but with a growing risk of warmer and drier periods developing through June and beyond. Recent rainfall has improved conditions, but continued follow-up rain will be important to maintain soil moisture and pasture growth.)

NRLX PRIME CATTLE MARKET HOLDS FIRM AS STEERS TOP

Strong Cow Numbers

Dominate Northern Rivers Yarding

The Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange (NRLX) prime cattle sale on May 20 delivered a solid market performance, with strong competition maintaining firm prices across most categories despite a large offering of cows.

A total of 840 head were yarded and sold through 328 lots, generating

more than $1.2 million in turnover as processors and buyers competed for quality cattle. Cows dominated the sale, accounting for more than half the yarding, while steers once again attracted strong demand and delivered the sale’s top cents-per-kilogram result.

Steers were among the standout performers, with 191 head across 90 lots averaging 416.5c/ kg and reaching a high of 516.2c/kg. Returns

ranged from $288 to $2,578.51, reflecting strong processor demand for better-finished and wellpresented lines. The steer section contributed almost $200,000 to the overall sale value.

Bullocks also recorded a pleasing result, with 44 head offered across 13 lots averaging 401.6c/kg and topping at 408.2c/ kg. Prices ranged from $2,041.17 to $3,099.78, producing a total category value exceeding $120,500.

Cows made up the largest section of the yarding, with 431 head presented in 141 lots. The category averaged 329.2c/ kg and peaked at 380c/kg, returning between $198.86 and $2,642.62. The heavy cow presence generated the greatest share of sale revenue, returning more than $697,000 overall. Heifers also attracted steady interest, with 156 head across 68 lots averaging 352.2c/kg and topping at 396.2c/kg.

Prices ranged from $135.18 to $2,085.48, producing total returns of more than $157,700.

The smaller bull section saw 13 head average 344.8c/kg and reach 366.2c/kg, with values ranging from $1,664 to $2,947.91. Meanwhile, five vealer bulls averaged 403.3c/kg and topped at 462.2c/kg.

Overall, the sale averaged 351.2c/kg across the full yarding, with cattle

516C/KG

weighing a combined 343,510 kilograms and producing a gross value of more than $1.206 million. The result highlighted continuing demand for quality cattle and reinforced the resilience of the Northern Rivers cattle market despite fluctuating seasonal conditions.

By The

NRLX STORE CATTLE SALE DELIVERS STRONG COMPETITION

Steers Lead The Way As Buyers Drive Market Beyond $2.6 Million

The Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange (NRLX) store cattle sale on May 22 delivered another strong market performance, with buyers competing heavily for quality young cattle and helping push turnover beyond $2.6 million. A total of 2,551 head were yarded, including cattle sold both per head and by liveweight, with steers again proving the

standout category as demand from restockers and backgrounders remained robust. The sale highlighted continued confidence in the cattle market despite seasonal uncertainty across parts of the region.

Steers dominated the sale numerically and financially, with 1,393 head offered across 361 lots. Competition remained intense throughout the section, with steers averaging an impressive 455.6 cents per kilogram

and reaching a top of 528.2c/kg. Returns ranged from $306.50 to $2,205, generating a total category value exceeding $1.56 million. Strong demand centred on well-bred and heavier lines suited to restocking and feeder operations.

Heifers also attracted solid buyer interest, with 1,076 head sold in 245 lots. Prices averaged 349.9c/kg and topped at 418.2c/kg, with returns ranging from $220 to $1,714.04. The heifer section contributed

more than $934,000 to the overall sale turnover, reflecting continued demand for replacement and breeding prospects.

The smaller vealer bull offering comprised 14 head across eight lots, averaging 349.1c/kg and peaking at 418.2c/kg. Prices ranged between $710 and $1,345.62, adding further support to the overall market result.

Per-head sales also contributed strongly to the day’s trade. Thirtynine cows sold across 10

lots averaged $1,478.97 and topped at $1,620, returning a combined $57,680. Meanwhile, 17 cows and calves averaged $1,755 and reached $1,875, generating almost $30,000 in turnover. A line of 12 heifers sold per head realised $1,480 each. Across the liveweight section, the market averaged 409c/kg, with cattle weighing a combined 614,405 kilograms and producing total liveweight sales of more than $2.51 million. When combined

with the per-head section, the overall sale gross exceeded $2.61 million, underlining the strength and depth of demand at NRLX.

The result reinforces the Northern Rivers region’s importance as a key cattleselling centre, with quality stock continuing to attract strong competition from local and interstate buyers.

By The Northern Rivers Rural News Desk

WARWICK LIVESTOCK MARKET STRENGTHENS AFTER RAIN

Warwick Livestock Markets W/E 22 May 2026

Weekend rain across the Southern Downs proved both a blessing and a challenge for livestock producers, reducing stock movements while helping drive stronger prices across cattle and sheep markets at Warwick. Numbers eased following the wet conditions, with 1,292 head of cattle and 1,387 sheep and lambs yarded. While several producers were unable to transport stock due to paddock

and road conditions, the reduced supply helped underpin stronger buyer competition across many categories.

Cattle markets lifted on the back of tighter supply and solid processor and feeder demand.

Feeder steers again led the market, averaging 438.4c/kg and topping at 530.2c/kg, returning between $1,577.97 and $2,266.81. Yearling steers also attracted strong support, averaging 436.5c/kg and reaching a sale-high 570c/kg, with returns from $1,117.78 to

$2,257.16.

Steers averaged 395c/ kg, topping at 440.2c/kg and returning $2,132.96 to $2,509.14, while manufacturing steers averaged 329.1c/kg, peaking at 360.2c/kg. The female market remained solid.

Heifers averaged 366.8c/kg and topped at 424.2c/kg, producing returns from $1,677.03 to $2,819.76. Feeder heifers averaged 348.7c/kg, topping at 436.2c/kg and selling between $1,213.02 and $1,928.39.

Yearling heifers averaged

364.7c/kg and reached 454.2c/kg, while vealer heifers averaged 341.2c/ kg and topped at 406.2c/ kg. Vealer steers averaged 401.8c/kg, reaching 470.2c/kg and returning between $662.38 and $1,339.50.

Heavy cattle remained well supported, with bulls averaging 358.8c/ kg and topping at 414.2c/ kg, returning up to $3,822. Cows averaged 276.5c/kg, topping at 377.2c/kg and returning up to $2,696.98.

Overall, the cattle yarding averaged $1,120.58 per head,

reflecting improved confidence following the rainfall.

The sheep and lamb market also lifted despite reduced numbers, with quality lambs drawing strong competition.

Lambs topped at $296 and averaged $249.28, representing a $33 per head improvement weekon-week.

Ram lambs averaged $188.60, up $32, while hoggets averaged $190.23, easing $35. Ewes averaged $172.24 and wethers averaged $178.97, while rams topped and averaged

$100.

The overall sheep and lamb sale averaged $211.03 per head, up $6 week-on-week. Pig numbers increased and produced mixed but encouraging prices, while poultry numbers remained steady with specialty and grouped birds attracting keen interest.

The rain may have restricted numbers, but it clearly strengthened the market, rewarding vendors able to present stock.

By The Northern Rivers Rural News Desk

By Ian Rogers

Regional water and farming leaders have urged the Federal Government to reassess further Murray–Darling Basin water buybacks, warning Australia risks weakening its drought preparedness, food security and regional economies at a time of rising climate uncertainty.

The Murray Regional Strategy Group has written to Treasurer Dr Jim Chalmers, raising urgent concerns about the national economic impact of continued water recovery under the Murray–Darling Basin Plan.

The group says public debate often focuses on the $13 billion allocated to deliver the Basin Plan, while overlooking what it describes as the far larger long-term cost: the loss of productive water used to grow food, fibre, fodder and staple crops.

MRSG Chair Geoff Moar said productive water remained the backbone of regional economies and national food security.

He warned that irrigation systems were originally designed to help Australia withstand dry years, but the scale of water recovery had reduced that buffer.

“The cost of the Basin Plan extends far beyond its

implementation price tag,”

Mr Moar said.

“It is the loss of economic productivity, staple food diversity and national drought preparedness that is costing the nation.”

The group says the southern Murray-Darling Basin consumptive pool is now 37 per cent smaller than it was 25 years ago due to environmental water recovery.

It argues that the smaller water pool has driven higher allocation prices, reduced confidence and pushed major industries, including rice, dairy and food processing, closer to critical thresholds.

The MRSG says the impact reaches well beyond farms. Irrigated agriculture supports processors, transport operators, contractors, manufacturers and regional towns.

In its briefing material, the group warns that when production falls below critical mass, the jobs and services built around those industries also come under pressure.

The 2018–2020 drought is cited as a major warning. During that period, high water prices made it difficult for irrigators to grow pasture, hay and silage.

Water Buybacks Spark Drought Preparedness Warning

Regional leaders say shrinking productive water supplies could weaken food security, jobs and resilience

Feed shortages escalated, and Australia was forced to import more than 300,000 tonnes of rice and more than 800,000 tonnes of wheat despite being a major agricultural producer.

MRSG argues that any further reduction in the productive water pool would deepen this vulnerability.

The group says less affordable water means less fodder, fewer staple foods, higher costs and a weaker capacity for farmers to support each other during drought, flood and fire.

Rice is one of the key industries identified as being at risk.

In typical production years, SunRice supports about 500 Riverina rice growers, employs more than 650 skilled workers and sources goods and services from close to 400 Riverina-based small and medium businesses.

The industry injects more than $400 million into Basin communities through wages and payments to growers, suppliers and contractors.

However, MRSG says rice production is directly linked to water availability and price.

In 2018, when water cost about $140 a megalitre,

around 623,000 tonnes of rice were harvested. In 2019, when water reached about $460 a megalitre, only 54,000 tonnes were harvested.

The group says higher water prices linked to further recovery would make large-scale rice production increasingly difficult.

Dairy is also under pressure.

Milk production in the Murray Dairy region has nearly halved from a peak of 3.1 billion litres to an average of 1.6 to 1.8 billion litres annually since the Basin Plan was implemented.

The briefing notes that more than 40 dairy processing facilities operate across the southern Basin, directly employing almost 2000 people across eight local government areas.

It says every 200 cows milked generates about $1 million and six full-time jobs.

MRSG says further water recovery could drive another 15 per cent fall in milk production, equal to around 270 million litres annually.

The group also warns that some farms could lose up to 40 per cent of earnings before interest and tax under current buyback

settings.

“This is not marginal adjustment,” the briefing states. “It is structural exits from the industry.”

Vegetable production and processing are also highlighted.

Kagome Australia, the nation’s largest tomato processor, grows and processes tomatoes, garlic, carrots and corn within 150 kilometres of Echuca.

Its operations inject between $104 million and $112 million a year into NSW Riverina and northern Victorian economies, including $27 million in wages.

MRSG says rising and unstable water prices are placing pressure on production, jobs and future investment.

Permanent plantings are another concern. The group says water recovery has created a major risk for nuts, grapes, citrus, stone fruit and olives below the Barmah Choke.

It warns those plantings could face a shortfall of almost 500 gigalitres under a dry 2026–27 scenario, even if all available allocation went to permanent crops.

The MRSG says drought is not simply an agricultural issue. It is a national economic and security threat.

The group has called for a coordinated national drought preparedness framework, long-term resilience funding, improved climate risk modelling, stronger early warning systems and clearer cross-portfolio leadership.

It says the issue should be treated as essential economic policy, not only water policy.

The letter to the Treasurer also seeks clarity on how the Federal Government intends to balance environmental objectives with the economic and food-security role of Basin agriculture.

MRSG says Australia must ensure it has the productive capacity, fodder supply and regional resilience needed before the next severe drought.

Mr Moar said the Government had now been given evidence of the risks facing Basin communities and national food supply.

“Our message is simple,” he said.

“Australia cannot afford further buybacks, and we are ill-prepared for the next drought where we lose billions in productivity and are forced to import staple foods we normally export.”

By Ian Rogers

Farm Leaders Raise Alarm Over Proposed CGT Changes Agricultural sector warns tax reforms could complicate farm succession and generational transfer

Australia’s peak farming bodies are urging the Federal Government to carefully examine proposed Capital Gains Tax reforms, warning the changes could create unintended consequences for family farms and complicate succession planning for future generations.

Tax reform dominated discussions at this week’s National Farmers’ Federation Members’ Council meeting in Canberra, where agricultural leaders from across the country gathered to assess the implications of measures announced in the 2026–27 Federal Budget.

Representatives from state farming organisations and commodity groups passed a formal resolution calling on the Government to safeguard farm businesses from potential impacts arising from proposed Capital Gains Tax changes.

National Farmers’

Federation President Hamish McIntyre said while the Government’s decision to retain small business CGT concessions was welcomed, significant concerns remained around whether the current settings were suitable for modern farming operations.

“The current thresholds are badly outdated and no longer reflect the reality of family farming today,” Mr McIntyre said.

“Our immediate focus is ensuring those settings are reviewed to protect farm succession and prevent unintended consequences

for the next generation of farmers.”

The concerns centre on how proposed tax reforms may affect the transfer of farming businesses between generations.

Family farms are often asset-rich but cashflow constrained, with land values growing substantially over many decades. Farming leaders argue that without carefully designed tax settings, succession arrangements could become increasingly difficult and place additional financial pressure on farming

families.

Mr McIntyre said farms frequently represented a lifetime of investment and planning.

“Family farms often represent farmers’ life savings, carefully invested in over decades to support their retirement and provide a succession pathway for their children to enter the sector,” he said.

The agricultural sector has long argued that succession planning is already one of the most complex and emotionally challenging issues facing rural families.

Rising land values, financing pressures and changing business structures have added to those difficulties, making taxation policy a critical issue for long-term farm viability.

Mr McIntyre acknowledged the Government’s recognition of agriculture through the proposed exemption for primary production income under planned discretionary trust taxation reforms.

“We need to ensure changes to CGT don’t unintentionally compromise the future of Australian farmers,” he said.

He described discussions

with Government as constructive and said the federation was committed to working toward practical solutions.

“We welcome the engagement we’ve had with Government so far and look forward to continuing this work to deliver practical solutions that allow the next generation of farmers to take on the family business.”

Agricultural leaders say the debate highlights the importance of ensuring tax reform supports economic productivity while protecting long-established farming enterprises that underpin regional Australia.

By Ian Rogers

Australia’s heavy vehicle industry is facing increased regulatory scrutiny as the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) intensifies efforts to target the country’s highestrisk operators while also addressing growing concerns over sham contracting.

The regulator has confirmed it is ramping up enforcement activity against operators who repeatedly fail to meet safety standards, with recent intelligence-led investigations leading to several heavy vehicle businesses being grounded through prohibition notices.

The latest developments were highlighted in a new episode of the NHVR’s What’s Your 20?

© Copyright Jeff Gibbs - The Northern Rivers Times

podcast, where NHVR Chief

Executive Officer

Nicole Rosie outlined the regulator’s dual focus on serious safety breaches and industry concerns surrounding contracting practices.

The crackdown follows extensive investigations into a small group of operators considered to pose significant risks to public safety. The NHVR used a broad range of information to identify the highest-risk businesses, combining Heavy Vehicle National Law compliance records, crash histories, Safe-T-Cam fatigue data and reports lodged through the Heavy Vehicle Confidential Reporting Line.

Through this multichannel assessment process, the regulator identified more than 20

operators presenting what it considers an unacceptable level of risk.

Ms Rosie said the vast majority of heavy vehicle businesses continue to operate responsibly and professionally, often under considerable commercial pressure.

She acknowledged that compliant operators invest heavily in maintaining vehicles, meeting legal obligations and ensuring driver and community safety.

However, she said the regulator’s attention was increasingly turning towards the small minority of operators repeatedly linked to serious incidents or known safety failures.

The NHVR has identified 21 operators as part of its highest-risk category.

Of those, nine operators are no longer accredited by

NHVR Targets HighRisk Operators And Sham Contracting Concerns

Safety crackdown intensifies as regulator targets dangerous operators and unfair practices

the regulator, another 10 are currently undergoing accreditation eligibility reviews, and two have received formal warnings indicating possible accreditation action.

The regulator says these measures are designed to prevent unsafe businesses from continuing to operate without meeting required standards.

The latest enforcement activity reflects a broader shift towards intelligenceled compliance, allowing authorities to identify patterns of dangerous behaviour before further incidents occur.

Alongside safety enforcement, the NHVR is also becoming more involved in discussions surrounding sham contracting — a practice where workers may be incorrectly classified as

independent contractors rather than employees.

Industry groups, transport operators and drivers have increasingly raised concerns that sham contracting may create unfair commercial advantages, undermine lawful businesses and place pressure on safety standards.

This week, the NHVR met with senior representatives from Federal and State Governments, Treasury, the Australian Border Force, the Fair Work Ombudsman and transport industry leaders to discuss the issue.

The meeting, convened by Senator Glenn Sterle, focused on the broader implications of sham contracting for industry fairness, safety and longterm sustainability.

Ms Rosie said concerns about contracting arrangements were becoming a recurring theme in discussions with industry participants. While responsibility for employment regulation sits largely with other agencies, she said the NHVR remained concerned about how such practices could affect both the transport system and community safety. The regulator believes unsafe commercial arrangements can place pressure on drivers and operators, potentially contributing to fatigue, reduced compliance and unsafe practices.

Drivers who believe they may be involved in a sham contracting arrangement are encouraged to seek advice through the Fair Work Ombudsman.

Farm Safety Training Rolled Out Across NSW

By Ian Rogers

The NSW Government has launched a major new Farm Safety Training Program designed to improve workplace safety across the agriculture sector, with up to 1,000 farming and agricultural workers set to take part in a 12-month pilot initiative. Announced by Minister for Industrial Relations and Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis and Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty, the program will be delivered by SafeWork NSW and aims to strengthen workplace health and safety knowledge while promoting safer practices across farms and rural workplaces. The initiative comes amid ongoing concerns about the high rate of injuries and deaths

within agriculture, one of Australia’s most dangerous industries. SafeWork NSW responded to 11 workplace fatalities in the NSW agricultural sector during 2025 alone, highlighting the continued risks faced by farmers and rural workers. Farm vehicles, including quad bikes and side-by-side vehicles,

remain among the leading causes of serious injuries and fatalities. Under the pilot program, participants will receive work health and safety training aimed at lifting baseline knowledge and encouraging safer behaviour on farms. Workers who complete the training will receive

a certificate that can be shared with employers as proof of their safety understanding and competency. The program will also help determine whether NSW should introduce an agriculturespecific safety card for farm workers in the future. The training announcement coincided

with the annual SafeWork NSW Farm Safety Roundtable in Wagga Wagga, now in its third year. The event brings together government representatives and industry leaders to discuss practical ways to reduce farm injuries and fatalities.

SafeWork NSW is also launching a new First Steps to Farm Safety Guide, providing practical advice to help farmers and agricultural businesses strengthen safety systems and reduce workplace hazards. The guide forms part of a wider package of safety resources and awareness programs being rolled out across regional NSW.

Additional support has been announced through the expanded $1,000 NSW Small Business Safety Rebate Program, which now includes agricultural

drones, power pole safety wraps and aerial line markers among eligible safety improvements. The expansion aims to encourage safer alternatives to higherrisk farm activities and equipment.

Minister Cotsis said the Government was responding to calls from farmers for practical training and stronger protections.

Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty said farming involved unique hazards and that ongoing collaboration with industry remained critical to improving safety outcomes across regional NSW. NSW Farmers and the Country Women’s Association have also welcomed continued consultation and education-focused approaches to farm safety.

Gardening Tips & Ideas

Cool Season Crops Ready To Thrive

Fresh Winter Harvests Start With Smart Seasonal Planting

By Jeff Gibbs

Winter may bring cooler mornings to the Northern Rivers, but it also opens the door to one of the most productive gardening seasons of the year. For many home growers, the cooler months provide ideal conditions for vegetables that struggle during summer heat and humidity.

The Northern Rivers winter planting guide highlights a wide variety of cool season crops ready to thrive from the coast to inland districts. While coastal communities often enjoy mild winters, inland areas including Kyogle and elevated regions may experience colder nights and occasional frost.

Fortunately, many winter vegetables perform well across the entire region.

Leafy greens are among the most reliable winter performers. Lettuce, spinach, silverbeet and Asian greens enjoy cooler weather and are less likely to bolt compared with summer growing. Rocket

and kale are also excellent choices, producing regular harvests through the season.

Brassicas flourish during Northern Rivers winters and often become the stars of the garden. Broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage prefer cooler temperatures and reward gardeners with strong growth and excellent flavour. These crops thrive in fertile soil enriched with compost or aged manure and benefit from consistent watering.

Peas and broad beans are equally rewarding. Snow peas and sugar snap peas grow vigorously and make excellent use of vertical space when supported by trellises or fencing. Broad beans tolerate cooler conditions and also attract pollinators with their attractive flowers.

Root vegetables perform particularly well beneath winter soil. Carrots, beetroot, radishes and turnips develop sweet flavour and crisp texture during cooler weather. Well-drained, loose soil helps roots grow evenly and

reduces deformities.

Garlic, onions and leeks also deserve a place in the winter patch. Garlic is especially popular, with many Northern Rivers gardeners planting during late autumn and early winter for harvest in spring or early summer.

Preparation remains the key to success. Improving soil before planting with compost and organic matter provides crops with steady nutrition. Mulching helps retain moisture, reduces weed growth and regulates soil temperature during cooler conditions.

Although winter brings fewer pests, gardeners should still monitor for caterpillars, aphids and snails following rain or warmer spells.

For Northern Rivers gardeners, winter is far from dormant. With thoughtful planning and the right crop selection, backyard gardens can continue delivering fresh produce while laying the foundation for spring abundance.

Memorial Notice

Funeral Notice

Funeral Notice

POSITION

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

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.

BALLINA COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB

LIVE COUNTRY MUSIC DAYS of the Ballina Country Music Club happen on the first Sunday of every month except January. The June Live Music Day is on Sunday, 7 June at Ballina RSL Club, Grant Street, Ballina, starting at 10.00 am."Ann, Bill, John & Jim”, one of our popular regular bands, will be playing. Peter Hulme is the feature Guest Artist, and the Paradise Pluckers are the Special Visitors. There are many regular and some visiting Walk Up Artists. The experienced line dancers demonstrate their skills and others take to the floor dancing however they want! There are great raffle and lucky door prizes, as well as Club members’ and Walk Up Artists’ draws. Come along and enjoy the company and music.

DEMENTIA INCLUSIVE BALLINA ALLIANCE SUPPORT GROUP FOR PEOPLE LIVING WITH DEMENTIA AND THEIR CARERS.

The group meets weekly on Wednesdays at the Ballina Aero Club, Lightwing Lane, Ballina (near the airport) from 10:3012:30pm. The program usually involves gentle exercise followed by choir singing then morning tea, then an activity that varies from week to week. If cooking is the activity, this happens first so that the goodies can be shared at morning tea. Activities include important occasions such as Australia Day, Easter, ANZAC Day, Melbourne Cup, and drumming, craft, memory museum, trivia, musical performances to name a few. The cost is $5 per week.

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. 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

CWA Casino

Our next meeting is Thursday 18th June at the Casino Community & Cultural Centre. Everyone is welcome, come and see what we have done and are doing in our community. Enq Jennifer 0438932060, Jane 0427 707 669.

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

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 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 CWA

Grafton CWA ‘s “CWA of NSW Grafton Branch Centenary Cookbook 1926-2026, 100 recipes for 100 Years” launch was fantastic. Huge congratulations to the Cookbook Committee, the members who contributed to the cookbook, the Serco ladies who did a magnificent job in the crafting of our cookbook, the South Grafton Servies Club who provided a delicious spread from recipes in the cookbook and to the Grafton CWA Handicraft group who have been very busy creating colourful and varied bunting for the occasion. Dates for Your Diary:6 June- Grafton CWA Bunnings Fundraising Barbeque.12 June 2026- 9.30-12.30-General Meeting at GDSC 22 June 2026- International Lunch at the Salvation Army Hall, 91 Oliver

Street, Grafton. Carmon McFawn & Loretta Lancaster

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

AL-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). Al-Anon Family Groups meet regularly across Australia and online, see Website: Regular weekly meetings:MONDAY11:00am - 12.30 pm

ILUKA - CWA Hall (behind the Iluka Museum), 2 Charles St. TUESDAY12.00 - 1.30 pm GRAFTON - Hall 2, Salvation Army, 91-93 Oliver St. 1:00 - 2.30 pm

LISMORE "The Studio", adjacent to 14 Pleasant St, Goonellabah & ZOOM ID 252 666 0000 (no password) (enter at rear of car park, cnr Pleasant & Fischer Sts)

WEDNESDAY6.30 - 8:00 pm BALLINA – Anglican Church, 24 Burnet St & ZOOM ID 252 666 0000 (no password)

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 10.3011.30 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.

WOLLONGBAR

WOLLONGBAR GARDEN CLUB

Meets on the second Tuesday of the month, from 9.45 till noon, at Rous Mill Hall, Rous Mill Rd, Rous Mill. We have guest speakers bi-monthly and extra-curricular activities like garden visits and coffee and chat mornings. Each month there is a trading table of plants and produce and a $2 raffle. Everyone is very welcome. Follow us on Facebook or for phone enquiries please ring Lee: 0401 763 163

YAMBA

YAMBA LIONS CLUB

Yamba Lions Club’s meetings are held 2nd & 4th Thursdays of month at Yamba Bowling Club, commencing at 7pm for 7.30pm. For further information, please contact the Secretary Peter 0417546097. Social outings also held at various time and visitors and new members’ welcome.

ALL NORTHERN RIVERS

Northern Rivers Evening Prostate Cancer Support Group

The next meeting of the Northern Rivers Evening Prostate Cancer Support Group for 2026 is to be held on Wednesday June 3rd – 7pm until 9pm at THE LISMORE WORKERS CLUB - KEEN STREET LISMORE -Men previously and newly diagnosed with prostate cancer are urged to join with the group to experience the personal cancer stories told which give a great opportunity for all to share, learn and benefit from each other - Partners and Carers are also most welcome to attend as family are very much involved with the process and treatment of those with this diagnosis Please feel free to bring a friend or someone you know who may be in need of support Members to be advised of Guest Speaker per email when confirmed Enquiries phone Bob Johnson (02) 6622 5792

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

See www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings

Northern Rivers District:

Cloudy. Very high chance of showers. The chance of a storm in the afternoon and evening, possibly severe with heavy rain which may lead to flash flooding. Light winds. Large and powerful surf conditions.

Thursday. Cloudy. Very high chance of showers. The chance of a storm. Light winds.

Northern Tablelands District: Cloudy. Very high chance of showers. The chance of a storm in the afternoon and evening, possibly severe with heavy rain which may lead to flash flooding. Light winds becoming northeasterly 15 to 20 km/h during the day then becoming light during the afternoon.

Thursday. Cloudy. Very high chance of showers. The chance of a storm in the morning and afternoon. Winds east to northeasterly 15 to 20 km/h shifting west to northwesterly during the afternoon.

New South Wales: Scattered showers across most of the state, tending more frequent in the east. Isolated storms. Moderate falls possible. Daytime temperatures near average. Southeast to northeasterly winds. Hazardous surf conditions along the northern coast. Thursday. Scattered showers and isolated storms contracting to the eastern two-thirds, isolated showers lingering in the far west. Moderate falls possible. Daytime temperatures near average. East to southeasterly winds along the southern coast, north to northeasterly winds along the northern coast, and west to southwest winds inland.

Byron Coast: Winds: East to northeasterly 10 to 15 knots decreasing to about 10 knots during the morning. Seas: Below 1 metre. Swell: Easterly 2 to 3 metres. Weather: Partly cloudy. 90% chance of showers. The chance of a storm in the afternoon and evening. Caution: Large and powerful surf conditions.

Coffs Coast:

Winds: North to northeasterly 10 to 15 knots tending east to northeasterly below 10 knots during the morning. Seas: Around 1 metre. Swell: Easterly 2.5 metres. Weather: Partly cloudy. 90% chance of showers. The chance of a storm in the afternoon and evening. Caution: Large and powerful surf conditions.

Gold Coast Waters: Winds: Easterly 10 to 15 knots decreasing to about 10 knots in the morning. Seas: Below 1 metre. Swell: Easterly 2 to 2.5 metres. Weather: Partly cloudy. 90% chance of showers. The chance of a storm in the evening. Caution: Large and powerful surf conditions.

Comets too flash for Ghosts

By Tim Howard

Grafton Ghosts matched their opponents, the Coffs Harbour Comets, for more than half their Group 2 rugby league clash at Frank McGuren Field on Sunday, but still found themselves 26-12 behind at full time.

A disastrous 30-minute period in the first half, where they conceded five tries as the Comets raced to a 24-0 lead, virtually sealed the game as a contest.

The opening 10 minutes gave little indication of the carnage that was about to erupt.

Both teams barely threatened in attack and appeared bogged down in the middle of the field.

It took a piece of freakish play from the Comets to break the deadlock after nearly 10 minutes of arm wrestling.

They kicked long and then stripped the ball from fullback Rhys Davis.

The ball came to fiveeighth Jay Hartley, who executed a miraculous flick pass inside to winger Sunia Tamale, who stepped inside the defence to score.

It was a try virtually from nowhere, but it cracked the game open as the conversion from halfback Jett McCarthy put his team

He stumbled close to the line, but was able to reach out and plant the ball for the try to make it 20-0.

But it was the final try of the half that had the Ghosts faithful thinking this just wasn’t their day.

They battered the Comets line for a full set and, with an overlap developing, sent the ball wide to the right and looked certain to score when Davis sprinted onto the ball.

their best footy of the game, scoring two tries and keeping the Comets tryless in the second half.

It was not stunning stuff from the Ghosts. The Comets seemed to be reading their attack like an instruction manual, but they were holding onto the ball and getting to their kick on most sets.

respectability to the score with a powerful try a minute from time.

Seemingly well covered by the defence, he dragged three tacklers over the line and planted the ball under the posts for his second try of the game.

BALLINA NINE HOLE GOLFERS BRAVE WIND AFTER RAIN WASHOUT

After Tuesday’s washout, Ballina’s Nine Hole golfers were eager to return to the fairways — and Thursday’s competition delivered a welcome return to action, despite blustery conditions testing even the most experienced players.

Persistent wet weather on Tuesday, May 19, forced the cancellation of play altogether, leaving clubs in the bag and golfers watching the skies. However, improved conditions by Thursday, May 21, brought renewed enthusiasm as a strong field turned out ready to tackle the course.

While the rain stayed away, gusty winds quickly became the day’s toughest opponent. Club selection proved challenging and maintaining accuracy was no easy task, with the breeze disrupting approaches and making scoring difficult across the course.

Rising above the conditions was Maria Donnelly, who produced the most composed round of the day. Her steady

ahead 6-0.

Two minutes later, backrower Max Sheard smashed a hole in some flimsy Ghosts defence as he carried the ball out of his own quarter.

He found Hartley backing up and timed a perfect pass to send him on a 40m sprint to the tryline.

A few minutes earlier the game had been a grind. In the blink of an eye, tries were coming from anywhere.

The Comets were quickly in again with another spectacular passage of play.

Lanky back-rower Waka Petera confounded the defence with a shallow kick that bounced perfectly for

centre Macauley Dawson to toe ahead toward the left corner.

He chased hard, picked the ball up close to the touchline and pushed away from the defence to score in the corner.

The conversion missed, but at 16-0 after 20 minutes the Comets were in total control.

A few minutes later, Ghosts fullback Davis dropped a high ball near his tryline to give the Comets another shot at the line, and they accepted the invitation.

A short passing burst, including a delightful ball from prop Henry Davis to Watkins, gave winger Nayden Simon an opening.

He only had to find his winger with the pass, but instead popped the ball up for Comets winger Tamale, who sprinted 90m to score.

The Ghosts kept grinding away, but their attack seemed to pose little threat to the Comets defence.

They tried some desperation plays, kicking for 40/20s on the second tackle and running the ball twice on the last tackle when the best option appeared to be a kick.

With minutes left in the half it was 12-on-12 when the referee sin-binned Ghosts veteran Adam Slater and Comets back-rower Kellen Wood.

Down 24-0 at the break, it was a brave Ghosts supporter who predicted their team would keep the Comets under 40.

Instead, the Ghosts played

At the 20-minute mark of the half, they got their reward when a deft inside ball from halfback Jake Frame found a rampaging Lewis Cooper, who crashed through the defence to score under the posts.

The conversion from Cooper Woods made it 24-6 and gave the Ghosts crowd something to cheer about, even if hope was a little thin on the ground.

Soon afterward, play was halted when an ambulance came onto the field to collect Dawson, who had earlier left the field injured.

When play resumed, the Ghosts continued to press the Comets defence, but made little impression.

With two minutes left, frustration got the better of Frame, who was sin-binned for back-chatting the referee.

One of the Ghosts’ best on the day, prop Lewis Cooper restored some

The 26-12 scoreline flattered the Ghosts. Apart from Cooper’s efforts, they barely tested the Coffs defence.

Too often they chose to spread the ball wide, crabbing across the field without denting the defensive line.

Cooper’s two tries, both the result of hard, straight running, should be the template the Ghosts use in attack.

Jake Martin, Adam Slater, Harry Kirk and Jasper Thistle tried hard in the middle but could not get on top of a bigger, betterorganised Coffs Harbour pack.

That made life difficult for the halves and outside backs, who constantly had Comets defenders in their faces.

The Ghosts are back at Frank McGuren Field on Saturday to host the Macksville Sea Eagles.

The Rebels return after the bye, but face a tough road trip to Woolgoolga.

and controlled golf earned an excellent winning score of 18 points, a performance that stood out in the demanding weather.

Helen Stevens battled hard to secure second place with 16 points, showing plenty of determination throughout the round. Gill Richardson completed the podium with 15 points after a solid effort in conditions that tested patience and precision. The wind also had its say in the Nearest the Pin competition. Division 1 proved unconquerable, with no player able to claim the prize, highlighting just how difficult the gusty conditions were. Kate Williams, however, showed impressive touch and accuracy to secure Division 2 honours. Although the scores were lower than players might normally expect, spirits remained high. After Tuesday’s rain-enforced cancellation, simply being back on the course and enjoying friendly competition made Thursday’s round a success for the Ballina Nine Hole group

CHERRY STREET CROQUET DELIVERS THRILLS AND CHAMPIONSHIP

DRAMA

Competition was full of close finishes and championship excitement at Cherry Street Croquet Club Ballina, with players producing some outstanding performances across Association Croquet, Ricochet Croquet and the Club Championships. Association Croquet featured a strong display from S. Hume, who defeated B. Hardy with a score of 19 to 11, showing excellent control and tactical precision throughout the contest. Ricochet Croquet provided no shortage of excitement, with several matches decided by the narrowest of margins.

J. Doust and R. Chapman combined strongly to defeat G. Kerr and R. Allen 13–7, while N. Barnes and B. Wellings edged out R. Poynting and M. Russell in a gripping 14–12 contest. N. Watts secured an impressive 14–11 win over P. Scott, but later found themselves on the wrong side of another thriller as R.

Poynting and B. Wellings narrowly prevailed 10–9.

J. Doust and N. Barnes continued their winning form with a hard-fought 13–11 victory over H. Young and Brenton Bill. D. Scott delivered one of the day’s standout performances, defeating J. Hannigan 21–16, while M. Russell held on in a tense battle to overcome M. Field and Bev Bill 19–18. More close results followed, with J. Dorward defeating N. Watts 14–11 and B. Wellings surviving a nail-biter against M. Field 21–20. R. Allen and J. Doust capped off the action with a narrow 14–13 victory over M. Russell.

Adding to the excitement, the Club Championships Advantage Golf Singles Final saw Helen Young crowned champion after defeating Christine Edlund 7/5 in an excellent contest.

Cherry Street Croquet Club welcomes new members, with play available Tuesday to Sunday and social games held daily.

CORAKI VETERANS BATTLE WET CONDITIONS IN

STABLEFORD SHOWDOWN

Wet weather continued to challenge Coraki Veterans golfers on Thursday, May 21, but despite soggy conditions and a reduced field, plenty of determination and competitive spirit remained on display during the Single Stableford event.

With another rain-soaked week affecting course conditions, golfer numbers dropped slightly, yet 36 players still fronted up ready to take on the damp fairways and testing greens. The wet course made scoring difficult, demanding patience, careful shot selection and steady play throughout the round.

Emerging on top was J. Sauer, who mastered the challenging conditions to secure the day’s victory and claim Stableford honours.

S. Toms produced another strong round to finish second, while J. Celich rounded out the leading trio with a solid third-place performance.

Competition remained tight beyond the major placings, with D. Knox earning the free game prize after another

determined effort around the course.

The popular chicken and ball prizes were shared among several players, recognising consistent play and keeping the friendly rivalry alive.

Prize winners included P. Anelzark, D. Johnston, S. Ormond, R. Webber and R. Bolger.

Accuracy also proved crucial in the Nearest the Pin contests. B. Cramp displayed impressive precision to take out honours on the 3rd and 12th holes, while M. Quinlivan showed excellent touch to claim the 6th and 15th hole prizes.

Attention now turns to Thursday, May 28, when Coraki Veterans will again contest a Single Stableford competition beginning at 8.30am. Following the golf, players will enjoy the club’s monthly barbecue, adding plenty of camaraderie to another anticipated day on the course.

Till then — good golfing.

Max

By The Northern Rivers Sports News Desk

Redmen sink Vikings

By Gary Nichols

The Grafton Redmen snapped a two-game losing streak with a thrilling 3126 victory over Hastings Valley Vikings at Port Macquarie on Saturday.

Grafton were at fever pitch from the start running in two unanswered tries and looked like piling on a cricket score.

However, to their credit, the home side produced a late onslaught to reawaken the contest.

Clinging to a five-point lead with 10 remaining on the clock, Grafton’s scrambling defence shut down several Vikings attacking raids.

Redmen back-rowers

Joeeva Rakaria and Panapasa Tuitaunova terrorised the opposition with their powerhouse running while Zac Skinner, who entered the fray in the second half, immediately made his presence felt with

a series of damaging runs.

Once again Grafton’s captain Kyle Hancock

played himself to a standstill while in the backs winger Jimmy Hammond showed touches of brilliance and was rewarded with two fivepointers.

Redmen first grade coach Gary Powell praised his team’s resilience and their goal-line defence.

“It was the best start to a game we have produced this season,” Powell said after the game.

“We usually start off slow which has been an issue the past few seasons, however today we managed to rectify that part of our game.

“They (Vikings) had us camped deep in our own half throughout the game, but I thought our line defence was brilliant.

“Another pleasing aspect was not one yellow card was handed out which indicated both sides showed plenty of discipline.”

Grafton face the Kempsey Cannonballs next week at home which is also a must-win-game.

“We are building each week and getting close to full strength, so hopefully we can notch up another win in from of a home crowd,” Powell said.

Surfing Australia And Southern Cross University Unite To Support Future Surf Talent

By Jeff Gibbs

Surfing Australia has announced Southern Cross University as its new Official University Partner and Major Partner for 2026, marking a significant collaboration aimed at strengthening surfing pathways, athlete education and career development across Australia.

The partnership brings together one of the nation’s leading sporting organisations and a globally recognised university with strong coastal connections and growing influence in higher education.

Southern Cross University, recently recognised as the Most Improved University in Oceania and ranked among the world’s top 500 universities, will play an active role across 11 of Surfing Australia’s flagship events.

The collaboration will extend from grassroots participation and boardrider clubs through to women’s and girls’ surfing programs, junior and high school pathways, and the prestigious Australian Surfing Awards.

The first event under the partnership banner was the Australian Interschools Surfing Championships presented by Breaka, held on the Gold Coast earlier this month.

Beyond event sponsorship, the partnership places a strong emphasis on education and workforce development.

Surfing Australia will host Southern Cross University students through immersive short-term placements and internship programs across several key departments. These opportunities will expose students to real-world operations within a national

sporting organisation, including marketing, events management, highperformance programs and commercial operations.

Southern Cross University Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Julie Jomeen, said the collaboration reflects the university’s coastal identity and commitment to creating meaningful connections between education, research and industry.

Professor Jomeen said the partnership embeds Southern Cross University within Surfing Australia’s national network through education pathways,

student placements, research collaboration and community engagement.

She said providing students with practical industry experience was central to the agreement, particularly for those studying sport and exercise science, health and business.

Surfing Australia Chief of Sport and Partnerships Luke Madden said the agreement aligned strongly with Surfing Australia’s long-term investment in the sport and its athletes.

Mr Madden said Southern Cross University’s location near world-class surf breaks and close proximity

to Surfing Australia’s High Performance Centre made it a natural fit.

He noted the university already had a strong history of alumni progressing through Surfing Australia pathways, with some participants previously involved in the organisation’s High Performance Program.

Mr Madden said the partnership would create genuine pathways

supporting surfers both in and out of the water, from grassroots participation to elite competition and future careers beyond the sport. Together, Surfing Australia and Southern Cross University say they are committed to helping develop the next generation of surfers through education, innovation and opportunity, ensuring athletes are supported at every stage of their journey.

2026 11-12

mental as anything

Busby Marou | Alex Lloyd

Dave Graney & Clare Moore | Rob Snarski & Lindy Morrison

Hayley Grace & The Bay Collective | Bill Chambers

Marcia Howard & Damian Howard | The Pinks | Jo Jo Smith

Youth Battle Of The Bands | Lucie Thorne | Kyle Lionhart

Abbie cardwell | FINOJET | Rogue Elements | The Hoochers

Kristina Olsen | Wild Rocket | Lou Bradley | z-Star

Kangaroos With Machine Guns | Wanita Queen of Honky Tonk

Minnie Marks | Mandy Hawkes | Women Of Country | Brodie Buttons

Jimmy Dowling | Joey’s Coop | Velcro Bully | Orthentix | Yazmindi