The Northern Rivers Times News Edition 309

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Council pauses town hall meetings after Yamba fallout

By Tim Howard

Clarence Valley Council has suspended its fledgling town hall meeting program after councillors acknowledged the forums were not operating as originally intended and needed a complete rethink.

The decision follows controversy surrounding the first two meetings, particularly a gathering at the Treelands Drive Community Centre in Yamba, where disputes later emerged over the handling of an attendance register and broader questions about how the meetings should be conducted.

At its May 21 meeting, council voted 8-1 to pause the town hall program until councillors can agree on a clear purpose, format and set of operating procedures.

The motion, put forward by Cr Peter Johnstone, replaced a Notice of Motion from Cr Cristie Yager, who had originally sought a system to ensure questions raised by residents at town hall meetings were formally answered and reported back to the public through council business papers.

Instead, councillors resolved to halt the meetings while Cr Yager and Cr Lynne Cairns worked with other interested councillors to develop a framework for future events.

The town hall program will remain suspended until council adopts that framework.

The debate revealed a broad consensus that changes were needed, although councillors differed sharply on what form future community engagement should take.

Cr Johnstone said the experience of the first

meetings had highlighted problems that needed to be addressed.

“I have to say the way things worked out, particularly in Yamba, wasn’t exactly as I thought it would happen when I voted for the motion originally,” he said.

“There’s been lots of comments and suggestions made, and I know that several of us were dissatisfied with some aspects of things that happened before and after.”

Cr Johnstone said councillors had different views about what worked and what did not, making it important to establish a framework before proceeding further.

The Yamba meeting became the focal point of the discussion. While councillors did not directly debate the attendance register issue during the meeting, the controversy has continued to cast a shadow over the program.

Questions were raised following the Yamba forum after council sought access to a sign-in sheet completed by attendees. The issue prompted concerns among some

residents about privacy and fuelled a wider debate about the governance of the meetings and how information collected at them should be handled.

Cr Yager opposed the suspension, arguing it risked killing off a concept she believed still had value.

“I see this as, if we support this and it goes through, that’s pause.

See you later to town hall meetings,” she said.

She said the original proposal had been intended as a way to take councillors into communities across the valley rather than concentrating meetings in major population centres.

“My original idea was to try it upper river, lower river,” she said.

“Never intended it to be in halls or chambers. It was to be in community halls, so that we can literally spread ourselves around as far as possible to hear from as many people as possible, not just Yamba community, not just Grafton community.”

Cr Yager said the concept had always been intended as a collaborative exercise involving all councillors.

“It was initially brought to everybody as a foundation to build on collaboratively, not for Cr Cairns, not for me, for all of us,” she said.

The debate also exposed differing views among councillors about the best way to engage with the community.

Cr Andrew Baker said he preferred informal conversations with residents in everyday community settings.

“People are relaxed. They’re open to have their say,” he said.

Cr Debrah Novak said she often received feedback while attending community events.

“You come and have a chat to me about what’s going on,” she said.

“What I love about this item too is it gives form to if we want to disagree with something, or we want to make it better, we’ve got something to work with.”

Cr Lynne Cairns said she was confident councillors could quickly develop a revised framework.

“We can also email it out to other councillors for their opinion or suggestions,” she said.

Cr Greg Clancy, who ultimately supported the motion, said future meetings would still require some staff involvement to ensure they operated smoothly and safely.

“There needs to be some structure, some assistance, so the lights are turned out, the doors are locked, and some notes taken,” he said.

The motion was supported by councillors Debrah Novak, Greg Clancy, Karen Toms, Lynne Cairns, Peter Johnstone, Shane Causley, Andrew Baker and Mayor Ray Smith.

Cr Yager was the sole vote against the proposal.

The decision means no further town hall meetings will be held until councillors agree on what the forums are intended to achieve and how they should operate.

In doing so, council has effectively acknowledged that before it can take its meetings back to the community, it must first decide exactly what a Clarence Valley town hall meeting is supposed to be.

Historic river tug moves closer to heritage listing

By Tim Howard

The historic MV Beardmore has moved a step closer to receiving State heritage recognition, with the Heritage Council of NSW recommending the vessel be listed on the NSW State Heritage Register.

The recommendation follows a public consultation process earlier this year and now goes to the NSW Minister for Heritage for a final determination.

State Nationals MP for Clarence, Richie Williamson, welcomed the recommendation, describing it as an important milestone in recognising a vessel that has played a significant role in the history of the Clarence Valley.

“The MV Beardmore is an important part of our region’s story and I welcome the Heritage Council’s recommendation to the Minister for Heritage,” Mr Williamson said.

“The vessel has a long and proud history on the Clarence River, particularly through its role supporting the sugar industry and river

transport operations for many decades.

“The MV Beardmore helped support an industry that has been central to the identity and economy of the Clarence Valley for generations.”

Built in 1914 by J G Pashley and Sons at the Harwood Sugar Mill, the timber tug was constructed from local hardwood and purpose-built for work on the Clarence River.

At 18.8m long and 3.4m wide, the vessel's shallow draft allowed it to operate in river conditions that larger vessels could not navigate. For decades it towed and pushed barges laden with harvested sugar cane between river landing

points and the mill.

Originally powered by a Beardmore semi-diesel engine, the tug was refitted in the early 1950s with an L5 Gardner diesel engine, which remains onboard today.

The vessel worked for the sugar industry for 60 years, becoming a familiar sight on the Clarence River as it supported cane transport operations for the Harwood Mill, Australia's longest continuously operating sugar mill.

But the Beardmore's story did not end with the sugar industry.

In 1974 the vessel was sold to the Nungera Aboriginal Cooperative, where it took on a new role servicing the

Aboriginal communities on Ulgundahi and Cororooke islands.

The tug transported supplies and produce, maintained vital river connections and helped tow an old ferry used to move machinery and equipment to and from the islands.

Mr Williamson said this chapter of the vessel's history was particularly significant.

“The MV Beardmore also represents an important chapter in Aboriginal economic development through its ownership and operation by the Nungera Aboriginal Cooperative during the 1970s and 1980s,” he said.

“Those historical connections are an important part of what makes this vessel unique and worthy of recognition.”

After being replaced by a more modern landing barge, the Beardmore fell into disuse and gradually deteriorated while moored at Wingfield's Wharf in Maclean.

Concerned locals stepped in to save the vessel. A restoration committee formed and successfully lobbied for its preservation.

In 1991, two cranes lifted the tug from the water and placed it on the grounds of the Harwood Sugar Mill. A Bicentennial grant, support from Maclean Rotary and countless volunteer hours later secured a protective shed for the vessel in 2000.

The restoration effort continued for decades and gained renewed momentum in preparation for the Harwood Mill's 150th anniversary celebrations in 2024.

Today the restored vessel is housed in a secure shed on the Harwood Mill site overlooking the Clarence River, where it stands as a reminder of the river transport era that helped build the region's economy.

According to the Heritage Council assessment, the Beardmore may be of State significance because of its association with more than 150 years of sugar production in northern NSW, its links to the Colonial Sugar Refining Company and Harwood Mill, and its role in the growth of Aboriginalowned enterprises during the 1970s and 1980s.

The vessel is also considered exceptionally

rare.

The Heritage Council noted the Beardmore is believed to be the only intact surviving timber river tugboat from the 20th century in NSW and one of the oldest surviving examples of its type anywhere in Australia.

Mr Williamson thanked community members who participated in the consultation process.

“I know there is strong community interest in preserving and recognising our local history, and I thank all those who made submissions as part of the consultation process,” he said.

“The Heritage Council has now completed its assessment and provided its recommendation to the Minister for Heritage, who will make the final decision on whether the MV Beardmore is formally listed on the State Heritage Register.”

If approved, the listing would provide State-level recognition for a vessel that spent much of the last century helping shape life and industry along the Clarence River.

More possibilities through new preschool

By Samantha Elley

The biggest expansion of preschools in NSW by the state government is underway and the Northern Rivers is benefiting with two new facilities to be built in Wollongbar and Lennox Head.

The investment of $769 million will deliver 100 new public preschools by 2027 and work was happening at Wollongbar last week as walls went up, to the delight of students, staff and parents.

“It is a two room preschool,” said Wollongbar Public School principal, Jennifer Thomas.

“It is a 40 place preschool but that will mean there’s room for 80 children to attend because it’s a threeday, two-day program.

“Parents will be invited to put in an expression of interest to enrol and we do look at a priority system and then we might offer them three days or two days.

“Then halfway through the year that changes and the people that have three days go to two and the people who have two days go to three.

“What we are trying to do is provide equity of access for people particularly as it’s a free program.”

The preschool will be under the umbrella of the public school.

“We will be Wollongbar Public School and Preschool,” said Jennifer.

“We will be a P-6 school.”

Jennifer said early childhood was the most fundamental areas of preschool and sets people up for life.

“I’m a really big fan of let’s do it right at the beginning and then build

Jennifer said she is proud of the relationships the school fosters with surrounding early learning centres through their transitions programs and inviting them to special events such as Book Week parades.

“We will still maintain that,” she said.

“We’ve got the potential

preschool will be open by term one in 2027.

“We are working on putting together all our procedures for early learning,” said Jennifer.

on that,” she said.

“At this school…we are relationships focused…and now we can start that from four years on.”

to doing that with 80 children on our site as well as the children at other early learning centres.”

All going well, the new

“We want to be certified before we can open up for the children.

“We have to make sure all our procedures are correct.”

Teachers Emma Pellandine and Anna Cramp will be the faces the children will see when the preschool opens.

“The two teachers appointed (Emma and Anna) were two of our teachers,” said Jennifer.

“They got their early childhood degrees while they were on maternity leave from their day job.

“They know the culture of our school.”

Hayley Spark is an enrolled nurse in aged care and parent of Simon and Samuel.

Simon is seven years old and in Year 1 at Wollongbar Public School while Samuel will be attending the preschool in 2028.

“I enjoy sending Simon to this school,” she said.

“There are plenty of

learning opportunities and it will be similar in the preschool as well.”

To have both children together in the primary and preschool will have many benefits for Hayley’s small family.

“Obviously it will be easier for picking them up, I just come to the same place,” she said.

“But also, it might be a bit more comforting to each other to know they are quite close to each other during the day.”

Another benefit will be Samuel’s transition into primary school when he is old enough.

“I think it will make it a lot easier him being here already, then transitioning from one building to another will make it a little bit easier for him,” said Hayley.

Earlier start for Clarence Valley Council meetings

By Tim Howard

Members of the public wanting to address Clarence Valley Council will no longer have to wait until just before councillors begin debating major agenda items, following a unanimous decision to overhaul the council’s meeting schedule.

Councillors voted unanimously at their May 21 meeting to introduce a new structure that will see deputations and presentations held from 9.30am on the Tuesday before each ordinary council meeting.

The next council meeting is on June 18 in the Grafton Chambers. Its start time has been altered to 9.30am.

The change means councillors will have more than 24 hours to consider information presented

Cr Andrew Baker’s motion to push start time for council meetings forward two hours to 9.30am, has been supported unanimously. His motion also included moving deputations forward two days to allow councillors more time to digest the information they received from them.

by community members before making decisions at the ordinary meeting on Thursday.

The new arrangements will take effect at future meetings and are designed to create a clearer separation between information gathering and

decision-making.

The successful Notice of Motion, put forward by Cr Andrew Baker, follows the council’s recent decision to establish a Briefing Committee to meet before ordinary council meetings.

Under the new format, deputations and

presentations will begin at 9.30am on Tuesday, followed by the Briefing Committee after a short break. The ordinary council meeting will then commence at 9.30am on Thursday.

Both meetings will include a lunch break and are expected to conclude by 4.30pm unless councillors agree to extend proceedings under the Code of Meeting Practice.

Cr Baker said the current arrangements often left councillors with little time to properly consider information presented by members of the public.

“Currently, councillors often receive deputations shortly prior to the ordinary meeting, leaving limited time to carefully consider or verify information before decisions are made,” he said in his report to

council.

The report argued that separating deputations from decision-making would improve governance, transparency and efficiency while giving councillors more time to assess information before voting.

The changes also aim to provide greater certainty for members of the public, council staff and online viewers by creating a more predictable meeting schedule.

The move comes after several lengthy council meetings in recent months either ran over time or threatened to do so.

In response, Mayor Ray Smith altered the order of business at some meetings, bringing forward officer reports and delaying Notices of Motion until later in the day to ensure reports prepared by council

staff received adequate consideration.

While that approach addressed one issue, it also raised concerns that some Notices of Motion were being debated late in meetings when time pressures were increasing. The new meeting structure is intended to reduce those pressures by spreading council business across two days and ensuring information received from deputations can be properly considered before councillors make decisions.

Council’s report said the changes were not expected to create additional costs and could improve operational efficiency by reducing delays and making meeting times more predictable.

The motion was carried unanimously

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

Healing ceremony marks new chapter for old Grafton Jail

By Tim Howard

A healing ceremony at the former Grafton Jail has marked another milestone in the $263.8 million redevelopment of Grafton Base Hospital, as the historic site prepares for a new role supporting healthcare services across the Northern Rivers.

Around 90 people attended the ceremony during National Reconciliation Week, including Aboriginal Elders, community members, school students, representatives from the Northern NSW Local Health District, Justice organisations and the hospital redevelopment team.

The event included a Welcome to Country, smoking ceremony, local speakers and a dance performance by students from Grafton High School, several of whom participate in the Stars Foundation mentoring program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young women.

The old jail site, which closed as a correctional

facility in 2020 after more than a century of operation, is being transformed into an Administration and Workforce Development Precinct and key worker accommodation as part of the broader hospital redevelopment.

Health Infrastructure said the ceremony recognised the history of the site while supporting healing as it transitions from a place of incarceration to one focused on healthcare, training and community wellbeing.

The redevelopment has established a “Connecting with Country” working

group involving hospital staff and representatives of the Bundjalung, Gumbaynggirr and Yaegl Nations to help guide the design of the project.

Plans for the completed redevelopment include a First Nations Garden, culturally significant totems and a pedestrian walkway inspired by the Clarence River.

Early works at the old jail are nearing completion, with two former administration buildings in the final stages of refurbishment.

The buildings will provide office space, training and

education facilities for staff from Grafton Base Hospital and the Northern NSW Local Health District.

Three trees — a weeping bottlebrush, native frangipani and lilly pilly — have been planted at the entrance to symbolise the three local Nations connected to the area.

The redevelopment also includes new accommodation for healthcare workers under the NSW Government’s Key Worker Accommodation Program.

The first stage will deliver 36 self-contained one-bedroom units and additional car parking adjacent to the precinct, with provision for a future second stage that could add another 36 units.

The accommodation project is intended to help attract and retain healthcare staff in the region, a challenge facing many regional hospitals across Australia.

The redevelopment of the jail site is a crucial part of the broader hospital project because it will allow administrative services

and staff accommodation currently located on the hospital campus to be relocated.

Once those facilities are moved, they will be demolished to make way for the centrepiece of the redevelopment — a new multi-storey acute services building for Grafton Base Hospital.

The hospital redevelopment has not been without controversy.

Community debate has emerged over several aspects of the project, including the future of murals painted at the old jail by former inmate and artist Leonard “Lenny” Lawson.

Lawson’s artworks have attracted public attention because of their artistic significance and connection to the prison’s history, but also because he was convicted of murder and serious sexual offences before his death in 2003.

The debate has highlighted the complex task facing project planners as they seek to preserve elements of the site’s heritage while transforming it into a modern healthcare precinct.

Rivers Disaster Adaptation Plan

Health Infrastructure executive director North Region Amanda Bock said the healing ceremony was an important step in acknowledging the site’s past while looking to its future.

“The Healing Ceremony is an important step in recognising the history of the old jail site, taking the time to reflect and move into the future together as we deliver the Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment,” she said.

Northern NSW Local Health District chief executive Tracey Maisey said the project would create modern facilities for staff and help support healthcare delivery across the district.

“We are looking forward to moving into these wonderful new spaces at the Precinct soon and starting a new era for this facility,” she said.

The Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment will deliver a new emergency department, operating theatres, medical imaging services including an MRI, inpatient units and expanded clinical services to meet the healthcare needs of the growing Clarence Valley region.

By Jeff Gibbs

Lismore City Council

is set to invest heavily in community facilities, events, cultural programs and recreational opportunities as part of its Draft Budget 20262027, with a dedicated $20 million liveability program designed to strengthen community wellbeing and support the city's ongoing recovery.

The draft budget continues Council's commitment to maintaining and enhancing the facilities and services that residents use every day, including libraries, sporting venues, aquatic facilities, parks, playgrounds, community halls, arts programs and cultural attractions.

Mayor Steve Krieg said

By Jeff Gibbs

Flood-affected homeowners across the Northern Rivers and Central West have been given additional time to decide whether to raise, retrofit or relocate their homes, following an extension of the NSW Government's Resilient Homes Program. Under the revised timeline, buyback settlements will continue

that building a strong community involved more than delivering infrastructure projects.

“Liveability is about having places to meet, play sport, learn, celebrate, connect with community and enjoy life close to home,” Cr Krieg said.

“These are the things that help build strong communities and support wellbeing and social connection, particularly during times when many families are facing cost-ofliving pressures.

“Whether it's a free library program, a local sporting competition, a community festival or simply spending time in a beautiful park, these experiences matter.”

The budget supports a

to the city's quality of life while also helping stimulate local economic activity through tourism, events and visitation.

Council says investment in community infrastructure and events creates opportunities for residents of all ages to participate in local life while also encouraging visitors to spend time and money within the region.

Lismore has increasingly established itself as a destination for major sporting, cultural and community events, with Council continuing support for a broad calendar of annual activities.

These include the iconic Lantern Parade, Tropical Fruits New Year's Festival,

Lismore Invests In Community Liveability And Events Future

$20 Million Budget To Support Facilities, Events And Community Connection

LisAmore!, Nimbin MardiGrass, GEMFest, the Aboriginal Rugby League Knockout, Norco Primex and the Lismore Show.

The city's cultural profile will also receive a boost with the Lismore Regional Gallery hosting the prestigious 2026 Koori Mail Indigenous Art Award, one of Australia's leading national awards for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists.

Major sporting events are also expected to deliver significant economic benefits over the coming 18 months.

Upcoming attractions include Eat the Street, the 2026 NSW Open Regional Golf Qualifier at Lismore Golf Club, the 2027 Swimming NSW Country Regional Meet at the Lismore Memorial Baths and the return of the State Under-12 Cricket Carnival at Oakes Oval.

The cricket carnival, which has been held in

Lismore for almost 40 years, regularly attracts teams from across New South Wales and has previously showcased future Australian cricket stars including Usman Khawaja, David Warner and Steve O'Keefe.

Council is also working with Sports Marketing Australia to secure larger sporting and entertainment events, including a proposed W-League women's football training camp later this year.

The annual Aboriginal Rugby League Knockout is expected to again attract close to 10,000 people to the region, while events such as the Darrel Chapman Fun Run and Lismore Cup continue to draw strong community participation.

Looking ahead, plans are progressing for the return of Rumble on the River and Groovin the Moo in 2027 following the strong response to recent events

More Time Granted For Flood-Affected Homeowners

through late 2026, while homeowners undertaking resilience measures now have until December 2028 to complete their projects. The extension comes in response to ongoing building and construction pressures across the Northern Rivers, where many residents continue to face challenges securing tradespeople, builders and approvals.

Minister for Recovery and North Coast Janelle Saffin

said the changes recognise the complexity of recovery and the difficult decisions many families are still facing.

“Recovery is complex and involves deeply personal decisions,” Ms Saffin said.

“This extension gives more time for participants to weigh their options, secure a builder and move forward with their recovery.”

The extension will allow homeowners considering

house raising or retrofitting to obtain professional advice, finalise building plans and complete construction works. Those wishing to relocate will also have more time to secure land and approvals, including opportunities being created through the Resilient Lands Program.

Several housing developments in Lismore are progressing as part of that program. Mount Pleasant Estate is expected

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to have land and homes available from June 2026, while developments at North Lismore (Dunoon Road) and East Lismore (Crawford Road) are scheduled for pre-sales later this year, with lots becoming available during 2027.

NSW Reconstruction Authority Chief Executive Officer Kate Fitzgerald said the extension reflects a coordinated approach between housing recovery

held in the city.

Mayor Krieg said the dedicated liveability budget was focused on maintaining the facilities, services and experiences that help make Lismore an attractive and connected community.

“This dedicated $20 million liveability budget focuses on maintaining important community facilities, spaces, activities, programs, events and services, which provide access to free and affordable ways for our community to connect, participate and make the most of living in this unique part of the world,” he said.

Council's Draft Budget and associated financial planning documents remain on public exhibition until 11 June 2026, with residents encouraged to review the proposals and provide feedback through the Your Say Lismore consultation process.

and land delivery programs.

“A key priority is ensuring land supply and housing pathways are progressing in step,” Ms Fitzgerald said.

The NSW Reconstruction Authority will continue providing direct support, information sessions and concierge services to help participants understand their options and access available funding as communities continue their long-term recovery journey.

Modelling beauties inside and out

By Samantha Elley

In an industry that is all about image and where identities are forged based on what is trending at the time, it is refreshing to come across twin Indigenous sisters, Shakiah and Jaminey Weatherall who are making a mark and ‘being a light’.

The ‘Alstonville girlies’, as they called themselves, recently appeared on the runways of Australian Fashion Week for the very first time.

“It was amazing,” Shakiah said.

“I honestly couldn’t believe we had the opportunity so the nerves were definitely there.

“It was easier being there with each other as we could lean on each other a lot.”

Both the girls have a strong faith and it was their beliefs that also helped them through.

“We are women of faith,” said Jaminey.

“We are driven by faith and prayer and have full confidence in God.

“Also, we are surrounded by mob as it is all First

Nation women and they are like family now.”

The twins, with Kamilaroi Anaiwan roots and Bundjalung connections, are signed with BlakList Agency, a First Nations

agency representing many creatives where cultural safety is prioritised.

This is where their professional profiles have been built for the past three years.

“We first did a photo shoot with the Koori Mail as we had a few connections with them,” said Shakiah.

“From there we got a lot of reach from agencies.

“When we were younger, we did twin shoots and family photos but didn’t aspire to be models.

“Then we thought, we actually like fashion and this world and we enjoyed it although we had different styles and were less fashionable.”

And the girls have never looked back.

Now living in Sydney Jaminey plays for South Sydney Rabbitohs in the Harvey Norman NSWRL Women’s Premiership when she is not modelling.

Shakiah, also in Sydney, enjoys more artistic pursuits through her writing, art and music.

They both have a deep commitment to their church and are mentors for young Indigenous people through the Department of Justice.

They would like to go further in their modelling careers.

“We’d love to go international,” said Shakiah.

“Darwin Fashion Week is coming up in July but we have big dreams in the fashion world and we’d love to go to Milan and Paris.

“There is definitely an interest in Indigenous models but it can put limitations, like only modelling Indigenous brands, which we enjoy doing but we don’t want to be in a box.

“We are not just Indigenous models, we are models.”

In the everchanging world

of the fashion industry, the girls know they are different and don’t buy into some of the toxic nature they’ve encountered.

“All these people dictating image as the industry is very niche,” said Jaminey.

“It is good to be grounded as our identity is in God.

“That’s what keeps us secure and not be dictated to by the changing world around us.”

Both girls love coming back to Alstonville to see their mum and large family of eight siblings, whenever they get the chance.

“Down here, there’s always something on, which is why we love coming back home and relaxing,” they said.

“It is a balance from the fast pace of Sydney.”

One day, both girls see living back in Alstonville as a long-term goal, especially when families start coming along.

Notice of Final Determination (Crayfish)

Department of Primary Industries & Regional Development (DPIRD)

The Fisheries Scientifc Committee (FSC), established under Part 7A of the Fisheries Management Act 1994 (FM Act), has made the following fnal determinations under the FM Act: Narrow Euastacus Euastacus angustus

List as a Critically Endangered species in Part 1 of Schedule 4A of the Act.

Swollen crayfsh Euastacus guruhgi

Terrestrial crayfsh Euastacus maccai

List as a Critically Endangered species in Part 1 of Schedule 4A of the Act.

List as an Endangered species in Part 1 of Schedule 4 of the Act.

The fnal determinations and reasons for them can be viewed on the DPIRD website www.dpird.nsw.gov.au, by request via fsc@dpird.nsw.gov.au or in person at DPIRD Fisheries Offces in NSW.

Rough night on the water

By Samantha Elley

It was a busy night for members of Marine Rescue last week when two vessels got into trouble on Tuesday night.

The first was at 6pm when volunteer radio operators at Ballina received a mayday call for a 41 foot yacht that had run aground at Flat Rock near Skennars Head.

“Brunswick Heads Marine Rescue were tasked but they were then stood down as the two people aboard were assisted off,” said a spokesperson for Marine Rescue.

The skipper sustained minor injuries in the form of scratches and the passenger’s head had slammed into the bulkhead when the vessel ran aground.

A commercial operator will need to be engaged to salvage the vessel.

At Brunswick Heads,

volunteers from Marine Rescue Brunswick battled darkness and deteriorating conditions overnight to save three men stranded on Cocked Hat Rock, part of the Three Sisters south of

11-12

2026

Volunteer

operators at Marine Rescue Port Macquarie received multiple calls just before 9pm.

Marine Rescue Brunswick Unit Commander and rescue vessel skipper

said his

used thermal imaging technology and floodlights to locate the three men on Cocked Hat Rock.

“We communicated with them through the hailer.

They were relieved to see us but clearly distressed,” he said.

“The men told us they had paddled out to the rock, but their kayak had been swept away by the swell, leaving them stranded.

“Our crew threw a lifeline to the rock and, one by one, the three men made their way through the water from the rock to the rescue vessel.

“Once onboard, their condition was assessed and space blankets were provided. They were extremely cold but in good spirits and grateful for the assistance.”

Deteriorating sea conditions slowed the journey back to Brunswick Heads Boat Harbour, with Brunswick 30 arriving shortly after 4am, where NSW Ambulance paramedics were waiting to assess and treat the men.

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

The radical idea is that we are nearly there

Comment By Tim Howard

As the world seems to be lurching from crisis to crisis, around the world populists are surfacing, even in the bastions of the strongest democracies, offering their siren song of simple solutions to complex problems.

Donald Trump in the United States has many wondering what will happen if events go against him in the Midterm elections in November.

In the United Kingdom, the perennial opportunist Nigel Farage appears to have demoralised both the Conservatives and Labour.

And in Australia, Pauline Hanson and her One Nation acolytes are reeling in the major players in the opinion polls.

Rather than look to political leaders, I have been turning to some of my favourite thinkers to see what light they can shed on this darkness.

French novelist, philosopher and champion of the Absurd, Albert Camus; the English novelist and essayist George Orwell; and Joseph Conrad, the Pole who put English as a second language to better use than many who spoke it as their first1.

What unites these men is not ideology. They disagreed on many things.

Conrad died before fascism reached its terrible flowering. Orwell remained a democratic socialist.

Camus was a man of the Left who spent much of his later life arguing with the Left. What unites them is something more valuable. They were suspicious of certainty.

They understood that politics becomes dangerous when people become convinced they have discovered a simple answer to the human condition. Orwell saw it in totalitarianism. Camus saw it

human.

There is another reason I find myself returning to these writers.

Unlike many contemporary political commentators, they would have been deeply suspicious of the idea that civilisation is collapsing.

Human beings have a habit of overlooking success.

We notice what is broken. We notice conflict. We notice crisis.

What we fail to notice are the extraordinary achievements that have become so commonplace we no longer see them.

Over my lifetime Australia has become a more diverse, more educated, more outward-looking and more inclusive country.

Gough Whitlam. Whitlam understood something many revolutionaries and reactionaries miss.

The purpose of politics is not to make history exciting, it is to make people’s lives better.

The revolutionary dreams of storming the palace.

The reactionary dreams of restoring it.

Whitlam wanted to build a sewer.

That may sound absurdly mundane until one remembers what a sewer represents.

Public health. Dignity. Opportunity. A civilised society.

in revolutionary movements willing to justify murder in pursuit of utopia. Conrad saw it in empire, where civilised men convinced themselves that brutality was a virtue because it served a higher purpose.

The more I read them, the more I think their greatest lesson for the 21st century is not about politics at all. It is about human nature.

Human beings dislike uncertainty.

We like clear explanations. We like enemies we can identify. We like leaders who tell us that our problems are someone else’s fault.

It is comforting to believe that if only the migrants were stopped, the elites defeated, the bureaucrats sacked, the journalists silenced, the minorities put back in their place, or the correct ideology imposed, our troubles would disappear.

History suggests otherwise.

The attraction of populism is not that it offers solutions. It is that it offers certainty. Democracy, by contrast, is frustrating. It is slow, argumentative, compromised and frequently disappointing. It requires people with different values, religions,

backgrounds and interests to share power and negotiate outcomes.

That messiness is not a flaw. It is the point.

The great danger comes when citizens become so frustrated that they stop looking for reform and start looking for destruction. There is a difference between rebellion and nihilism.

Camus understood this better than most.

The rebel says: “This is unjust and must change.”

The nihilist says: “Burn it all down.”

The first seeks improvement. The second no longer cares what follows. That distinction matters because history is littered with movements that promised renewal but delivered something much darker.

The most unsettling irony is that the greatest threats to freedom often arrive disguised as its defenders. They promise security and deliver surveillance. They promise strength and deliver fear. They promise unity and deliver division. They promise to defeat enemies and eventually discover enemies everywhere.

One of the lessons of the 20th century is that authoritarian movements rarely stop with their first target.

Jews become enemies. Then migrants. Then political opponents. Then journalists. Then judges. Then academics. Then former allies.

The search for purity becomes endless. Eventually there are scarcely enough friends left to sustain the movement.

Hatred is remarkably effective at building political movements. It is much less effective at building societies.

Conrad grasped this long before the horrors of the last century unfolded.

At the end of Heart of Darkness, Europe continues its comfortable existence largely unaware of what has been unleashed in the Congo. The methods of domination, exploitation and dehumanisation appear safely distant.

History would prove otherwise.

The greatest warning of the novel is that darkness is not a place. It is a habit of mind.

It emerges whenever people stop seeing others as fully

When I was young, meeting someone from China, Africa or the Middle East often meant encountering a person who sounded different, looked different and came from a visibly different world.

Today I regularly encounter Australians whose ancestry lies in those places, but whose accents are as Australian as mine.

If I spoke to them on the telephone, I would have no idea where their parents or grandparents came from.

The dire predictions made about immigration simply did not come to pass.

The circle of belonging expanded. Australia did not become less Australian, it became a different kind of Australian.

That seems to me an unambiguously good thing.

The Australia of my youth was familiar, but it was also narrower.

Today’s Australia is more complicated, but it is infinitely more interesting.

Populists thrive on the claim that something precious has been lost.

Perhaps.

But it is equally possible that something precious has been gained.

Which brings me back to

We are often told that politics requires grand visions and heroic transformations. Perhaps.

But utopia does not need more towers reaching towards heaven. It needs a working sewer.

The realist understands that we can do two things at once. We can look at the stars while ensuring people are no longer forced to lie in the gutter.

Whitlam understood that a nation can build universities and sewers, fund the arts and collect the rubbish, dream of the future while improving everyday life.

The danger of modern populism is that it spends so much time knocking down the towers of the elites that it forgets about the infrastructure beneath them. And when the rubble blocks the sewer, everyone eventually discovers that civilisation depends far more on maintenance than demolition.

The radical thought in 2026 may not be that society has failed.

It may be that society has succeeded beyond the expectations of previous generations.

The challenge before us is not to burn it down and begin again.

It is to finish the job.

Lismore City Council Honoured At State Excellence Awards

By Jeff Gibbs

Environmental leadership, flood resilience and community infrastructure

recognised among NSW’s best

Lismore City Council has received statewide recognition for its achievements in environmental management, disaster recovery and community infrastructure, taking home top honours at the 2026 LG Professionals NSW Local Government Excellence Awards.

The awards are regarded as one of the highest accolades in local government, recognising councils that demonstrate innovation, leadership and outstanding service delivery to their communities.

Lismore City Council was named the winner of the Environmental Leadership Award for its long-running Rural Landholder Initiative.

The council also received a Highly Commended award in the Special Project Initiative category for its

Flood Restoration Portfolio and was named a finalist in the Asset and Infrastructure Projects Over $1.5 Million category for the Lismore Skatepark.

Mayor Steve Krieg said the recognition reflected the dedication and professionalism of council staff and highlighted the diverse range of projects being delivered across the local government area.

“These awards highlight

the breadth of work being undertaken across our organisation – from protecting and restoring our natural environment, to leading one of the largest disaster recovery programs in local government, and delivering infrastructure that enhances community wellbeing,” Mayor Krieg said.

The award-winning Rural Landholder Initiative has become one of the

“I had amazin teachers at my local public hi h school. They truly inspired me, shaped the person I am today, and in luenced my career.”

emma, Class of 2018 at a NSW public school

council’s most successful environmental programs, supporting landholders across the region to improve biodiversity, protect waterways and restore native vegetation.

Since its establishment in 2015, the initiative has partnered with more than 250 rural property owners throughout the Lismore Local Government Area. Through the program, more than 50,000 native

trees have been planted, weed control works have been carried out across 380 hectares of land and approximately 6.5 kilometres of riparian restoration has been completed along local waterways.

Council says the program has not only improved environmental outcomes but also strengthened relationships between landholders, community groups and local government.

The Highly Commended recognition for the Flood Restoration Portfolio acknowledged the council’s innovative approach to embedding resilience into recovery efforts following the devastating 2022 floods. The portfolio has become one of the largest and most complex disaster recovery programs undertaken by a local government authority in New South Wales.

Meanwhile, the Lismore Skatepark’s selection as a finalist recognised the importance of investing in

community infrastructure that supports recreation, health and social connection for residents of all ages.

Mayor Krieg said the awards demonstrated the positive outcomes that can be achieved through collaboration between council staff, community members and project partners.

“Recognition across three separate categories reflects the commitment, innovation and hard work being delivered every day by our staff and partners,” he said.

Council has congratulated all employees, community members and stakeholders involved in the recognised projects, while also acknowledging the achievements of other councils honoured during the awards program.

The results reinforce Lismore’s growing reputation as a leader in environmental stewardship, resilience planning and community-focused development across regional New South Wales.

ind out ho your local public school is inspirin

Chips Will Fly As Heritage Weekend Returns To Casino

Vintage Machinery, Woodchopping And Tractor Action Set For Popular Annual Event

By Jeff Gibbs

The sounds of revving vintage engines, cracking timber and hardworking draft horses will once again fill the air when the annual Heritage Weekend returns to the Casino Showgrounds on July 18 and 19.

Organiser and former Casino Show president John Broadrick said this year's event promises two days packed with history, machinery, competition and family-friendly entertainment.

"There will be something for everyone," Mr Broadrick said.

One of the major attractions will be the return of woodchopping demonstrations and competitions, featuring restored machinery that was once an essential part of rural life.

Among the highlights will

be the popular fence post ripping championships, a unique contest that continues to attract competitors and spectators alike.

For those unfamiliar with the event, competitors begin with a log

approximately six feet long and two feet deep before cutting fence posts directly from the round timber.

"It gets a little noisy when they line everything up," Mr Broadrick said with a laugh.

"The first person to cut

the log into strips and break the posts out from the centre of the log wins the competition."

Visitors will also be able to see historic timberworking machinery in action, demonstrating techniques that helped build farms and fences throughout the region for generations.

Machinery enthusiasts will be treated to a huge display of vintage tractors, agricultural equipment and classic vehicles from across the Northern Rivers and beyond.

Throughout the weekend, demonstrations will showcase how many of the restored machines once operated, while tractor pull competitions are expected to provide plenty of excitement.

Adding to the traditional atmosphere will be demonstrations featuring draft horses working with

machinery, offering visitors a glimpse into farming practices before the widespread use of modern equipment.

The Pavilion will be filled with market stalls featuring local products, crafts and displays, with additional stalls located throughout the showgrounds.

"There will be markets everywhere and plenty to see," Mr Broadrick said.

Food and refreshments will be available throughout the weekend, with the Casino Show Society canteen providing full catering for visitors.

Another popular attraction will be the dog trial competition, to be conducted on Saturday by experienced handlers Jack Maloney and Shane Randel.

Motoring enthusiasts will want to return on Sunday when the vintage car

show takes centre stage, showcasing a range of beautifully restored classic vehicles.

The Heritage Weekend has become one of Casino's most popular annual community events, attracting families, history enthusiasts, machinery collectors and visitors keen to experience a slice of Australia's rural heritage.

The event will be held at the Casino Showgrounds on Saturday, July 18 and Sunday, July 19, with gates opening at 9am each day.

Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for pensioners and youth, while children under 12 enter free.

With vintage machinery, woodchopping, markets, working horses, dog trials and classic cars all on the program, organisers are expecting another strong turnout for the celebration of the region's rich rural heritage.

“Leemo has views on just about anything”

CATS DON’T MAKE CHICKEN SOUP

Oooh, what a horrible time I’m having of late.

‘Mum Jane’ is unwell right now and has been for some time. I am so thankful she didn’t have to go to a hospital ‘cos she would rate, in my view, as one of the worst & intolerable patients in the whole world. She informed me she was doing ‘tests’ on her condition this morning & stuck things like cotton buds up both nostrils (gross!) then did other stuff stared fxedly at a little kinda testing plate into which she had squeezed stuff from her nose. (watching this was like ‘Interview with the Vampire’ movie.) Fortunately the little testing device informed her she didn’t have COVID or RSV & stuff. Praise God!! BUT, back when her ‘unwellness’ started, she started on ME – her beloved CAT, believing I had something to do with her condition. (She apparently has a stuffed & runny nose, headache, sore throat, mild temp, runny eyes, aches & chills; an increasingly bad mood her visage is horrifc to behold- AAARRGH!)

She spoke: ‘Leems, you must make chicken soup to help me recover. Whilst I stay warm & snuggle in my bed, I request that you get the whole chook out of the freezer & whilst it’s thawing take the copper boiler out of the cupboard to the right of the microwave, put water in it with garlic salt, peppercorns, bay leaves, pepper, carrots,

chopped spuds, corn kernels, onions, celery, chopped garlic cloves & whatever & put it all on a slow cook & don’t forget to add the chook (and PLEASE take the plastic off the chook!) SO GO ON…do it!! Gottit?’ I came close to biffng her but restrained myself, instead deciding to simply address this debacle frmly. um , I am a CAT – cats do not make chicken soup, OK? I reckon what you need Mum is one of those husband sorta persons to make chicken soup for you in times of ailment – whaddya reckon?’ Eeeek, she sniffngly yelled at me. ‘Leemo, I’ve had 2 of them and neither could even make up their minds about how to use the clothes pegs to put washing on the line in colour coded order, let alone the intricacies of making hearty chicken soup – GOTTIT - SO NO, I TOTALLY don’t want another one’: Hmmmm: Eeek..this is verging on perilous territory and when in peril, “Call the Buddies’ – I did this and told Mum to put her face mask on. ‘Fluffy Bum’ spoke soothingly: ‘Mum Jane, your condition to me sounds like ‘SADOWC’ – Mum eye balled him fercely & demanded to know what this bloody meant? ‘Fluffs’ remained calm & told her it meant ‘Seasonal Affective Disorder Old Woman Crabbiness’. That kinda put a look of bewildered confusion on her face & she came close to a fainting episode. Us Buddies just sat & pondered in curiosity. ‘Should I make tea for her?’ ‘Treasure’ asked: ‘Not without gingernuts’ responded ‘Brutus’. ‘Well, who shall make this life-saving soup?’ asked ‘Pasqualie’ I’ll ruin my nails if I chop things. Isn’t there a Soup Kitchen we could call?’ Mum murmured & fell asleep. Whew!! I spoke – QUICK, c’mon buddies, let’s make the miracle SOUP ‘cos she’s always kind to us with treats so let’s repay her.’ (chop, purr, chop purr, chop!) Nitey, Leemo & Buddies.

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

LOOKING SOUTH MAKES SENSE

Clarence Valley Council's decision to seek full membership of the Mid North Coast Joint Organisation appears to be a practical one rather than an emotional one. The valley already shares important links with Coffs Harbour through water, transport and environmental planning. While some fear losing infuence in the Northern Rivers, there is no reason council cannot continue working with neighbouring councils on disaster resilience and food recovery. The real question is where the strongest advocacy outcomes can be achieved. If membership of the Mid North Coast JO delivers greater access to decision-makers and funding opportunities, then residents stand to beneft.

J. Reynolds – Maclean

DON'T WALK AWAY FROM INFLUENCE

I am concerned Clarence Valley Council may be giving up more than it gains by leaving the Northern Rivers Joint Organisation. The region has spent years building collaborative approaches to food recovery, resilience planning and regional advocacy. nfuence takes time to develop and should not be discarded lightly. Our challenges are often the same as those faced by neighbouring councils to the north. Stronger ties with the Mid North Coast do not necessarily require abandoning existing partnerships. Council should have explored ways to strengthen both relationships rather than choosing one over the other.

M. Ellis – South Grafton

LEEMO ALWAYS MAKES ME THINK

One of the strengths of Leemo is that beneath the humour there is often a thoughtful message. This week's conversation about art reminded readers that people see the world through different eyes and that disagreement does not have to lead to confict. n a time when opinions seem increasingly divided, the idea that different perspectives can all have value is worth remembering. Plus, I suspect many readers secretly agreed with Mum Jane that Leemo himself is a work of art.

R. Wallace – Goonellabah

FAIRNESS IS DIFFERENT FOR EVERYONE

The recent review of council rating structures demonstrates why rates remain one of the most contentious issues in local government. Every resident believes they are paying too much, but few consider who would pay more if their own rates were reduced. The report showed clearly that alternative systems would create signifcant winners and losers. While no rating model is perfect, stability has value. Constantly changing the system creates uncertainty for households and businesses alike. Councillors were right to examine the options thoroughly before deciding the current structure remains the most balanced.

D. Harper – Yamba

HOUSING REQUIRES ACTION

The comments from Anglicare regarding affordable housing should be taken seriously. When only a small proportion of rental properties are affordable for low-income earners, the market is clearly failing many members of our community. Councilowned land represents an opportunity to create housing that delivers long-term social benefts rather than short term fnancial returns. Key workers, pensioners and young families are increasingly struggling to fnd suitable accommodation. If local government can play a role in addressing that shortage, it should do so. Housing is becoming one of the defning challenges facing regional Australia.

A. Mitchell – Grafton

AN OUTSTANDING COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

This edition of The Northern Rivers Times was one of the strongest I can remember. From council decisions and affordable housing to community events, sport, entertainment and cooking, it provided a genuine snapshot of life across the region. What stands out most is the balance between serious reporting and lighter content. Few publications manage to inform, entertain and celebrate local communities all in the same edition. Congratulations to everyone involved.

P. Henderson – Lismore

COMMUNITY COMES FIRST

The debate over council land should not be reduced to a simple fnancial calculation. Public assets belong to the community and should be used in ways that deliver the greatest public beneft. While selling land to the highest bidder might produce immediate revenue, affordable housing developments can generate benefts that last for generations. Stable housing improves health outcomes, educational achievement and community participation. Sometimes the best investment is not the one that delivers the largest dollar fgure.

C. Bennett – Junction Hill

BEEF WEEK SHOWS OUR BEST SIDE

Casino Beef Week once again showcased everything that is good about regional communities. Visitors travelled from across the country to celebrate agriculture, local business and community spirit. The Breakfast with the Butchers has become an institution because it brings people together regardless of age or background. The event also delivers signifcant economic benefts to local businesses. In a time when regional areas often struggle for positive attention, Beef Week puts asino frmly in the national spotlight for all the right reasons.

P. Walsh – Suffolk Park

SENIORS STILL HAVE PLENTY TO GIVE

The story about the sausage cook-off at Whiddon Casino was refreshing because it highlighted the knowledge, humour and life experience of older residents. Too often discussions about aged care focus solely on health challenges and limitations. Activities that keep residents engaged with community events help maintain wellbeing and connection. The former farmers and cattle producers involved in the cook-off brought decades of experience and enthusiasm to the occasion. Their participation reminds us that age does not diminish a person's ability to contribute.

S. Clarke – Lismore

ART HELPS BUILD COMMUNITY

The Lismore Lantern Parade has grown into far more than a local event. It is a celebration of creativity, community and resilience that attracts visitors from across the region. The addition of the Heart Light wearable art competition demonstrates how the event continues to evolve while maintaining its core identity. Cultural events are often underestimated when discussing economic development, yet they support local businesses, encourage tourism and strengthen community pride. Lismore should be proud of what it has created.

R. Cooper – Lismore

LOCAL STORIES MATTER

Reading this week's Northern Rivers Times reminded me why local newspapers remain important. National media rarely cover the issues that directly affect our communities, whether they involve council decisions, local sporting facilities, community events or housing challenges. This edition offered an impressive mix of news, opinions, culture and human-interest stories. t refected the diversity and character of the Northern Rivers and gave readers plenty to think about. Keep up the excellent work.

J. Thompson – Yamba

REAL

ESTATE SECTION SETS THE STANDARD I would like to compliment The Northern Rivers Times on its Real Estate lift-out. Unlike many property sections that simply showcase listings, this publication presents homes in a way that highlights the character and lifestyle of our region. The quality photography, clean presentation and variety of properties make it enjoyable to browse even for readers who are not currently in the market to buy or sell. The lift out refects the diversity of the Northern Rivers, from rural retreats and family homes to investment opportunities and coastal properties. It has become one of the most polished and professional sections of the paper and is a credit to everyone involved in its production.

G. Wallace – Evans Head

A CITY THAT REFUSES TO GIVE UP

Lismore has endured more than its share of hardship in recent years, which makes the continued success of the Lantern Parade even more signifcant. The event refects a community determined to celebrate creativity and connection despite the challenges it has faced. Thousands of people coming together for markets, performances and illuminated artworks sends a powerful message about resilience. Events like these help restore confdence and remind people why they love living in the Northern Rivers.

B. Taylor – East Lismore

ART MEANS DIFFERENT THINGS

Leemo's latest discussion about art was both amusing and surprisingly thoughtful. Too often people argue over whether something is "real art" instead of simply appreciating the joy it brings. The idea that art exists in the eye of the beholder is probably the most sensible conclusion. Whether it's a famous painting, a favourite book, a piece of music or even a beloved pet, the value comes from the feelings it creates. Leemo and the Buddies managed to make a serious point while still making readers smile, which is quite an achievement.

T. Richards – Ballina

INVESTING IN YOUNG PEOPLE

The redevelopment of the Maclean netball courts is an investment in far more than sport. Modern facilities encourage participation, improve safety and provide opportunities for young people to develop healthy habits. Community sport also teaches teamwork, discipline and resilience. The upgraded courts will beneft current players while encouraging future generations to become involved. Regional communities need facilities that match the enthusiasm of their volunteers and participants.

K. Douglas – Maclean

SPORT NEEDS ITS VOLUNTEERS

While the new netball courts at Maclean deserve plenty of praise, we should not forget the volunteers who make local sport possible. New facilities are wonderful, but they would sit empty without coaches, committee members, umpires and parents who donate countless hours every season. The upgraded courts will hopefully attract more players and competitions, but they will also place greater demands on volunteers. Supporting those people is just as important as investing in infrastructure.

S. Martin – Harwood

A WIN FOR THE LOWER CLARENCE

The completion of the Maclean netball court upgrade is exactly the sort of project regional communities need. It provides a safe and modern venue for local sport while creating opportunities to attract larger competitions to the area. The benefts extend beyond netball. Visiting teams spend money in local shops, cafes and accommodation providers, creating economic activity for the whole community. It is encouraging to see investment in facilities that deliver both social and economic returns.

G. Thompson – Townsend

A CULTURAL CENTRE FOR THE FUTURE

The redevelopment of the Alstonville Cultural Centre represents a signifcant investment in community life. Modern libraries are no longer simply places to borrow books. They are learning centres, meeting places and hubs for people of all ages. The expanded facilities and improved accessibility will ensure the centre remains relevant for decades to come. Communities grow and change, and our public spaces must evolve with them.

J. Scott – Alstonville

PRESERVING CHARACTER MATTERS

While the redevelopment of the Alstonville Cultural Centre is welcome, I hope planners remain mindful of preserving the character and identity that local residents value. Modern facilities are important, but so too is maintaining a sense of place. Many older community buildings hold memories and signifcance that cannot be replaced. Progress and preservation should work together rather than compete with each other.

M. Harris – Wollongbar

HUNGER SHOULD NOT EXIST HERE

The Salvation Army report detailing widespread hunger and hardship should shock every Australian. The fact that people are skipping meals, watering down food and going without medication is unacceptable in a country as wealthy as ours. Rising living costs are no longer an inconvenience; for many families they have become a daily crisis. Governments at every level need to recognise the seriousness of the situation and respond accordingly.

H. Murray – Ballina

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL CHARITIES

The growing demand on organisations such as the Salvation Army highlights the importance of community support. While governments debate policies and budgets, charities are providing practical assistance every day

to people who are struggling. Donations, volunteering and community fundraising efforts all make a difference. The cost-of-living crisis may be national, but local communities still have the ability to help those doing it tough.

R. King – Tweed Heads

COMFORT FOOD AT ITS BEST

The One-Pot Cheesy French Onion Meatballs recipe looked absolutely irresistible. In an age where many recipes require dozens of ingredients and endless preparation, it was refreshing to see something hearty, practical and family-friendly. The step-by-step instructions were easy to follow and the humour sprinkled throughout the page made it enjoyable to read. This is exactly the sort of meal many households are looking for during the cooler months.

L. Rolins – Casino

SWEET TREATS AND SIMPLE IDEAS

The Mini Baked Condensed Milk Cheesecakes were the standout item on the cooking page for me. They looked elegant enough for guests while remaining simple enough for everyday cooks to attempt at home. The Northern Rivers Times cooking page continues to strike a nice balance between practicality and fun. Readers do not need restaurant-level skills to enjoy these recipes, and that is part of their appeal.

S. Rolands – Maclean

WE NEED AFFORDABLE RENTALS

The affordable housing crisis is affecting more than lowincome earners. Increasingly, nurses, hospitality workers, retail employees and young families are fnding themselves priced out of the rental market. Communities cannot function without essential workers. If councils, community housing providers and governments fail to address this problem, the consequences will be felt throughout the region. Affordable housing is

no longer optional—it is essential infrastructure.

L. Barker – Yamba

INVESTING IN COMMUNITY SPACES

The commencement of work on the Alstonville Cultural Centre is a reminder that community infrastructure remains important even during diffcult economic times. Libraries and cultural centres provide opportunities for learning, social interaction and community engagement. They are places where people from different backgrounds come together. Investments like this strengthen communities in ways that cannot always be measured fnancially.

P. Roberts – Alstonville WHIDDON SHOWS THE VALUE OF CONNECTION

The Beef Week activities at Whiddon Casino demonstrated how important community engagement is for aged-care residents. Seeing residents participate in trivia, cooking competitions and celebrations connected to local traditions helps maintain a sense of belonging and purpose. The event wasn't just about sausages or friendly competition—it was about recognising that older people remain an important part of community life. More organisations should look for opportunities to involve seniors in local events and celebrations.

N. Carter – Casino

SPIELBERG STILL HAS THE MAGIC

The Entertainment section's review of Disclosure Day made me want to buy a ticket immediately. It is refreshing to read a review that focuses on storytelling and atmosphere rather than simply special effects. Steven Spielberg has always been at his best when he combines wonder with humanity, and this flm sounds like a return to that style. The review captured the excitement of a major cinematic event without giving away too much of the plot.

M. Edwards – Byron Bay

When only Daniher will do…

by Nigel Dawe

IT’S that long ago now, I can’t remember who I was even referring to, but I once scrawled in a notebook of mine: “The only time I don’t know where to look, is when those I look up to move on.” And this feels more than strangely true right now, seeing Neale Daniher has passed away.

But the legacy and sheer example he leaves behind for us all to follow – on every front – is why we should fondly celebrate him, and never forget the life he led.

In a way I consider myself more than lucky to have enjoyed an absolute front row seat to watch Neale’s blazing sun-like rise to acclaim. As a life-long Melbourne Demons fan I was on-deck to see him initially take the reins as head coach (he was then 36-year-old) at the end of season 1997. Which was a year that bad, we finished an outright four wins behind the second next worst team in the entire competition. So, we were last by a very long way. Fast forward 12-months and Melbourne had made the biggest rise up the ladder in the game’s history, gallantly losing the preliminary final to the previous season’s premier –North Melbourne. Two years after that and the Daniher-led demons were into a grand final. Even if you’re not a sports fan, that level of performance-altering influence is cause for deep admiration.

It’s little wonder that Neale Daniher earned the moniker of ‘the Reverend’ during his time at Melbourne, the way he inspired his players and the entire club to believe that

they could not just rise, but go on to realise the impossible, was astonishing. Figures like this only come about a mere handful of times over the course of our lives; they are the people that somehow fathom the riddle, if not the pure hidden paradox, of teamwork that leads to the realised promise of success.

Sadly, for Neale he contracted motor neurone disease or MND in 2013, which was then a little-known terminal illness that condemned those afflicted with it to a life expectancy of just 27 months (at most). Incredibly ‘the Reverend’ battled what he referred to as ‘the Beast’ for 13-years before recently succumbing to the debilitating toll of it all. Not before having raised $141 million for research and critical care through his initiative ‘Fight MND’ which he set up in 2014. Approximately 800 Australians are diagnosed with MND each year, or two loved ones, each and every day. To the letter, one of my most revered sentiments is that of the Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist, Thornton Wilder, who once said, “The highest tribute to the dead is not grief but gratitude.” And when it comes to figures like Neale Daniher, there is no more fitting adage to reflect upon with regards to the gratitude you feel for the life he led. Or as Neale himself once said, “We don't always get the story we planned. Maybe the meaning of your life isn't in how closely it matches your dreams, but in how you respond when it doesn't…Build a life that matters.”

A

murder, a photo and a lifelong secret

Title: The Secret Keeper

Author: Kate Morton

Price: $21.75

Distributor: Booktopia

It isn’t often that a young girl in the prime of her teens in the 1960s sees her mother murder a man.

The event slowly becomes hidden under explanations of selfdefence and shock.

But Laurel knows there is more to the incident than her mother has confessed, so now, 50 years later, as her mother is in the final stages of life, she is determined to uncover the secrets she is still holding.

$14,300 GRANT TO GROW JUNIOR TOUCH FOOTBALL IN EVANS HEAD

Evans Head Touch Football Association has secured $14,300 through the NSW Government’s Local Sport Grant Program to help grow junior representative touch football opportunities in the Richmond Valley, State Nationals MP for Clarence, Richie Williamson has announced.

The funding will assist the club in purchasing match and training footballs, two marquees, representative player kits, field flags and a stand to support the expansion of junior touch football and representative pathways in Evans Head.

Mr Williamson said the funding would help the club continue its impressive growth and provide more opportunities for young players in regional communities.

“Evans Head Touch Football Association is a fantastic local sporting organisation driven by an

incredibly passionate and dedicated committee who have worked tirelessly to rebuild and grow the club following COVID and the 2022 floods,” Mr Williamson said.

“This funding will help support the continued growth of junior touch football in Evans Head and create stronger representative pathways for local children and young people.

“With many regional families facing barriers such as travel costs and distance, this project will help make representative sport

more accessible for young players in our community.”

Mr Williamson said community sport played a vital role in keeping young people active, connected and engaged.

“Providing safe, healthy and inclusive sporting opportunities for children and families has enormous benefits for the wider community,” he said.

“Local sporting clubs like Evans Head Touch Football create opportunities for young people to stay active, build confidence, develop

teamwork skills and form lifelong friendships.”

Evans Head Touch Football Association Secretary Jo Slade said the club was thrilled to receive the funding.

“We are over the moon with the success in our grant application and this is definitely going to be well received by our junior members together with our senior Evans Head Touch Football Association members and families,” Ms Slade said.

“We have worked hard following COVID and then

the 2022 floods to rebuild our club and this has been due to the tireless efforts of our passionate small committee.”

“Our junior rebuild has been long coming and it is so exciting for our committee to see the fantastic response and uptake from within our local Richmond Valley communities.”

Ms Slade said the club had ambitious plans to significantly grow participation numbers over coming years and provide more local representative opportunities for children who currently need to travel long distances to participate in higher-level touch football.

Mr Williamson congratulated the Evans Head Touch Football Association committee and volunteers on their successful application and thanked them for their ongoing contribution to grassroots sport in the region.

New Bus Bay Improves Safety At Goonengerry Public School

By Robert Heyward

But what is seen on the surface isn’t necessarily what is truth and Laurel, along with her younger brother, have to wade through all the information they uncover to find out what her mother can no longer reveal due to her advanced age.

Kate Morton is the international bestselling author of The Shifting Fog and The Forgotten Garden, amongst others.

She has a degree in dramatic art and English literature and lives with her family in London and Australia.

You can buy your copy of The Secret Keeper online at booktopia. com.au.

As Laurel digs into the past, a photo found in her mother’s belongings is the catalyst to discovering the story of a much younger Dorothy, her mother, and her friends Vivien and Jimmy. They are brought together by the fates of war and the bombings in London as each tries to survive from their own personal circumstances.

Students at Goonengerry Public School now have a safer and more accessible place to board and exit school buses following the completion of a new bus bay on Goonengerry Road. The project was funded

through the NSW Government’s Safer Roads Program and aims to improve transport safety for students, parents and carers using the school bus network.

Byron Shire Mayor Sarah Ndiaye welcomed the completed project, saying it

provides a safer and more accessible way for students to get on and off their school bus.

“Having a safe and reliable way to get to school is important for parents, caregivers and students, and makes it easier for the children to receive the education that they deserve,” Cr Ndiaye said.

The new bus bay was completed earlier this month and includes a dedicated concrete bus bay with kerb and guttering, an accessible ramp with handrails, lowered telecommunications services and new signage. These improvements have been designed to enhance safety while ensuring students of all abilities can access school transport more easily.

Goonengerry Public School Principal Tony Hutchinson said student wellbeing and safety remain the school's highest priority.

“This new bus bay not

only enhances safety but also ensures all our students, including those with mobility challenges, can access their bus comfortably and confidently,” Mr Hutchinson said.

“We are grateful for the support from the NSW Government and Byron Shire Council in making this important project a reality.”

The project forms part of broader efforts to improve road and pedestrian safety throughout the Byron Shire. A new raised pedestrian crossing was recently completed in Bangalow under the same funding program, making it safer for residents and visitors to cross the road and access local sporting facilities and the town centre.

The new infrastructure at Goonengerry Public School is expected to provide longterm benefits for students, families and bus operators while supporting safer

Lismore’s Growth Vision Takes Centre Stage At NSW Parliament

Council outlines ambitious plan for 60,000 residents, thousands of new homes and jobs

By Jeff Gibbs

Lismore's future growth ambitions were showcased at NSW Parliament House this week as more than 50 business, investment and community leaders gathered for a high-profile industry briefing focused on the city's long-term development.

Hosted by Lismore City Council in the Members' Dining Room at Parliament House in Sydney, the Lismore 60,000 Industry Briefing highlighted Council's draft vision for transforming the city into one of regional Australia's leading economic and population growth centres.

The event brought together representatives from government, property development, infrastructure, business and regional development sectors to discuss opportunities arising from the draft Local Strategic

Planning Framework.

Under the framework, Lismore is aiming to grow its population to 60,000 residents over coming decades while supporting the delivery of up to 10,000 new homes and creating approximately 6,500 local jobs.

The long-term strategy seeks to balance housing growth, economic development, environmental sustainability and community wellbeing

while strengthening Lismore's position as the regional capital of the Northern Rivers.

Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg said the briefing reflected a significant shift in the city's outlook since the devastating floods of 2022.

“Three years ago, the conversation was about rebuilding. Today the conversation is about growth, investment and opportunity,” Mayor Krieg said.

“Lismore has always been the capital of the Northern Rivers. We're now planning for the next generation of residents, workers and businesses who will choose to call our city home.”

Mayor Krieg said the city's growth strategy was not simply about increasing population numbers but about creating opportunities that benefit the wider region.

“This isn't growth for growth's sake. It's about

creating jobs, attracting investment, increasing housing choice and building a stronger economy that benefits the entire Northern Rivers region,” he said.

Council believes engaging directly with investors, government agencies and industry leaders is essential to securing the partnerships needed to deliver future infrastructure and housing projects.

“We are a city of YES,”

Mayor Krieg said.

“If we want to attract new jobs, investment and infrastructure to Lismore, we need to be engaging directly with the people and organisations that can help deliver them.”

The briefing forms part of a broader engagement campaign supporting the Lismore 60,000 initiative, which includes extensive consultation with local residents, businesses and community organisations.

Council's Manager

Strategic Services, Jamie Van Iersel, said community input would be vital before any final decisions are made.

“These are draft plans, and we want to hear from our community,” Ms Van Iersel said.

“The vision, priorities and opportunities identified in the framework are now being tested through consultation.”

The draft Local Strategic Planning Framework has been developed through research, expert planning advice and previous community engagement. It is intended to provide a roadmap for sustainable growth, economic resilience and long-term prosperity across the city. Community consultation remains open, with residents encouraged to review the proposals and provide feedback on the future direction of Lismore.

Safe Haven Support To Continue Despite Service Changes

By Robert Heyward

Mental health support for Northern Rivers residents will continue despite the closure of the current Safe Haven North Coast sites later this month.

Established after the devastating 2022 floods as part of the NSW

Government’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Flood Recovery Package, Safe Haven North Coast has provided support to more than 20,000 people across the region. The service was commissioned by Healthy North Coast and delivered by The Buttery.

Participants have reported feeling less

distressed, more connected and better supported after accessing the service, which has operated in Lismore, Murwillumbah and Mullumbimby.

Funding for the current Safe Haven model was extended in 2025 and is due to conclude at the end of June 2026. As the program transitions, The Buttery is helping

participants connect with alternative mental health and wellbeing services, including the Medicare Mental Health Phone Service, which operates 24 hours a day on 1800 595 212.

In a positive development for the region, Healthy North Coast, Northern NSW Local Health District and the NSW

Ministry of Health have secured a further one-year extension for a revised hybrid Safe Haven outreach model in Lismore through to 30 June 2027.

Under the new arrangement, the existing Lismore Safe Haven site will close in mid-June, with support continuing through a more flexible outreach service designed

to reach people where they are.

Healthy North Coast thanked The Buttery, Safe Haven staff, local councils and community organisations for their role in establishing and operating the service following the floods, providing vital support during one of the region’s most challenging periods.

$2.6 Million Boost For Dementia Research New Grants To Support Breakthroughs In Diagnosis, Treatment And Care

By Jeff Gibbs

Australian dementia researchers will have access to $2.6 million in new funding under the Dementia Australia Research Foundation's 2026 Grant Program, supporting innovative projects aimed at improving prevention, diagnosis, treatment and care for people living with dementia.

The funding round will support 12 research projects across Australia and includes a new initiative designed to encourage greater diversity and collaboration within the research sector.

For the first time, the Foundation is offering the Dr Pratishtha Chatterjee Memorial Travel and Collaboration Grant,

which will support women and culturally and linguistically diverse researchers investigating ways to improve the early detection and diagnosis of dementia.

The grant honours the legacy of Dr Pratishtha Chatterjee, known to family and colleagues as Rimi, whose work focused on making Alzheimer's disease diagnosis more accurate, accessible and easier for patients and clinicians.

The initiative is supported by Dr Chatterjee's husband, Professor Abhay Singh, who said the grant was a meaningful way to continue her life's work and inspire future generations of researchers.

“Pratishtha dedicated her scientific career to making Alzheimer's

disease diagnosis simpler and more accessible, even while facing her own profound health challenges with courage and grace,”

Professor Singh said.

“She believed that exposure is the greatest influence in life, and this grant exists to give fellow researchers exactly that.”

Professor Singh said Dr Chatterjee was passionate about supporting emerging researchers, particularly women and those from diverse backgrounds.

The 2026 program also includes additional support for successful fellowship recipients, who will receive an extra $15,000 to help fund professional development, travel and research collaborations.

Dementia Australia Research Foundation

Chair Professor Graeme Samuel AC said the new

funding opportunities were designed to strengthen Australia's dementia research capacity and encourage greater collaboration between researchers.

“This year's funding round places a strong emphasis on professional development, equity and diversity, creating new opportunities for early and mid-career researchers,”

Professor Samuel said.

“Researchers will have the chance to collaborate, share learnings and create opportunities that will lead to a more connected, impactful and coordinated research environment.”

Dementia remains one of Australia's greatest health challenges, affecting hundreds of thousands of people and placing significant emotional and financial pressure on families, carers and healthcare systems.

Dementia Australia CEO

Professor Tanya Buchanan said community support continues to play a critical role in advancing research and improving outcomes for people living with dementia.

“As the largest nongovernment funder of dementia research in Australia, our work is only possible because of

the generosity of donors,” Professor Buchanan said.

“All funding for the Dementia Australia Research Foundation is donated by members of the public and by private and philanthropic organisations.”

She thanked supporters for helping drive research that could lead to better treatments, improved care and ultimately a future without dementia.

Applications for the 2026 Grant Program are now open, with researchers encouraged to apply for funding that could help shape the next generation of dementia discoveries.

Proposed NDIS Changes Raise Concerns For Australians With Life-Limiting Illness

By Jeff Gibbs

Australians living with life-limiting and terminal illnesses could be left without access to essential care and disability support under proposed changes to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS),

according to Palliative Care Australia (PCA).

The national peak body has lodged a submission to the Senate Committee Inquiry examining amendments to NDIS legislation, warning that the proposed reforms may unintentionally create significant barriers for

some of the nation's most vulnerable people.

PCA argues that the legislation, in its current form, risks leaving individuals with serious and terminal conditions caught between the healthcare and disability support systems.

National Policy

Director Josh Fear said the organisation was concerned the Bill acknowledges that some Australians face difficulties accessing appropriate healthcare due to financial hardship, geographic isolation or limited service availability, while simultaneously stating that the NDIS should not be used to fill gaps in healthcare services.

Mr Fear said this approach could have serious consequences for people living with terminal illnesses and complex care needs.

“Under this approach, people with life-limiting or terminal illness could find themselves locked out of both systems,” he said.

“The Bill effectively accepts that some people may be unable to access appropriate healthcare because of cost or geography, while also excluding them from accessing functional supports through the NDIS.

“That is not an adequate

safeguard for people with complex and highly vulnerable care needs.”

PCA said the proposed legislation does not adequately reflect the realities faced by many Australians, particularly those living in rural, regional and remote communities where access to specialist healthcare and palliative care services is already limited.

For many families, managing a terminal diagnosis involves navigating multiple support systems while coping with significant emotional, physical and financial challenges.

The organisation argues that people approaching the end of life should not be required to navigate gaps between government systems while dealing with serious illness and increasing care needs.

Mr Fear said stronger protections were needed to ensure equitable access to support regardless of where a person lives or their financial circumstances.

“People approaching the end of life should not be left navigating gaps between systems while trying to manage serious illness, disability and distress,” he said.

PCA is urging the Senate Committee and Federal Government to introduce safeguards that ensure people with permanent and significant disabilities resulting from a terminal diagnosis are not left without access to necessary supports.

The submission highlights concerns that without clearer protections, some Australians could miss out on both healthcare assistance and disability support at a time when they are most vulnerable.

As the inquiry continues, PCA says any reforms must ensure people with life-limiting illnesses can access coordinated, compassionate and appropriate support that allows them to live with dignity and comfort throughout their illness journey.

Six-Figure Property Gains Sweep Australia

Coastal hotspots, regional centres and booming capital city suburbs deliver extraordinary returns for homeowners

By Jeff Gibbs

Australian homeowners in 26 property markets have seen their wealth surge by more than $100,000 over the past year, with strong demand, population growth and a chronic shortage of housing continuing to drive prices higher across large parts of the country.

New housing market analysis has identified a group of standout suburbs and regions where median house values increased by six figures during the past 12 months, highlighting the ongoing strength of Australia's residential property sector despite higher interest rates and ongoing affordability concerns.

The strongest gains were concentrated in Western Australia and Queensland,

where a combination of interstate migration, strong employment growth and limited housing supply has created intense competition among buyers.

Perth continued its remarkable rise as one of Australia's hottest property markets, with several suburbs recording some of the largest annual increases in the nation.

Western Australia's relative affordability compared with Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane has attracted both investors and owneroccupiers, while strong economic conditions have supported demand.

Queensland also featured heavily among the nation's top-performing markets.

Coastal destinations, lifestyle regions and rapidly growing urban centres have benefited from ongoing migration from southern

states as Australians continue to seek more affordable housing and a better work-life balance.

Property experts say the trend reflects a fundamental imbalance between supply and demand. While Australia's population continues to grow through both migration and natural increase, housing construction has struggled to keep pace.

As a result, many buyers are competing for a limited number of properties, particularly in desirable suburbs with strong infrastructure, quality schools, employment opportunities and lifestyle attractions.

Several regional markets have also outperformed expectations, proving that strong property growth is no longer confined

to major capital cities.

Regional centres offering affordability, employment opportunities and lifestyle benefits have become increasingly attractive to families, retirees and remote workers.

The findings are particularly relevant to communities across the Northern Rivers, where housing demand has remained resilient in recent years. Coastal towns and lifestyle-focused communities throughout the region continue to attract buyers seeking a sea change or tree change, while limited housing stock has helped support property values.

Real estate analysts note that while price growth may moderate as affordability pressures increase, the underlying factors supporting many markets remain firmly in place. Population growth, housing shortages and continued demand for lifestyle locations are expected to underpin values in many areas throughout the year ahead.

The report also highlights the growing wealth effect experienced by existing homeowners. In some suburbs, annual capital growth has significantly exceeded average household incomes, reinforcing property

ownership as one of the most powerful wealthbuilding tools available to Australians.

For prospective buyers, however, the continued rise in property values presents ongoing challenges. Higher purchase prices, increased deposits and competition for available homes are making market entry more difficult, particularly for first-home buyers.

Despite these challenges, Australia's strongestperforming markets continue to demonstrate remarkable resilience, with many homeowners enjoying gains that would have seemed unlikely only a few years ago.

Australian Home Prices Stall As Higher Interest Rates Cool Market Sydney and Melbourne lead declines

By Jeff Gibbs

Australia's housing market has shown its first significant signs of slowing after an extended period of growth, with national home prices effectively flatlining in May as higher interest rates and affordability

pressures begin to weigh on buyer demand.

The latest PropTrack Home Price Index revealed Australia's median home price slipped marginally by 0.04 per cent during May to $908,000, following a 0.1 per cent decline in April. While the monthly

while regional markets continue to provide support

movement was small, it signals a noticeable shift from the strong growth experienced throughout much of the past two years.

Despite the slowdown, Australian property values remain significantly higher than a year ago. National median home prices are

still 7.5 per cent above May 2025 levels, representing an increase of approximately $83,600 in value for the typical home.

The market's cooling has been largely driven by conditions in Sydney and Melbourne, which have now recorded three consecutive months of price declines. Rising interest rates have reduced borrowing capacity for many buyers, making it more difficult for households to compete in already expensive markets.

Sydney remains Australia's most expensive housing market, but recent data shows prices have softened as buyers become increasingly cautious. Melbourne has also experienced further declines, with the city's median house price falling below the $1 million mark for the first time since last year.

Property analysts say the Reserve Bank's series

of interest rate increases this year has played a major role in slowing buyer activity. Higher mortgage repayments have reduced affordability and forced many purchasers to reassess their budgets. At the same time, uncertainty surrounding proposed changes to property investor tax concessions announced in the Federal Budget has added further caution to the market.

However, the slowdown has not been uniform across the country.

Many regional markets continue to record modest growth, while cities such as Adelaide and Darwin have maintained positive momentum. Queensland lifestyle destinations and parts of regional Australia also continue to benefit from strong population growth and ongoing demand for housing.

For Northern Rivers property owners, the national figures are

unlikely to trigger immediate concern. The region continues to attract buyers seeking lifestylefocused locations, coastal living and proximity to major employment centres in southeast Queensland. Industry experts note that housing supply remains constrained across much of Australia, which should help prevent any major price correction. While growth is expected to remain subdued in the short term, underlying demand continues to support values in many markets.

Looking ahead, economists are forecasting a more balanced property market throughout the remainder of 2026. While the era of rapid price growth may be easing, Australia's ongoing housing shortage and population growth are expected to provide a floor under property values in many regions.

Westpac Fined Millions Over Hardship Failures

By Jeff Gibbs

One of Australia’s largest banks has been hit with a multimillion-dollar penalty after serious failures were uncovered in the way financial hardship cases were handled.

Westpac has been ordered to pay a $26 million penalty following findings that customers experiencing financial distress were not adequately supported, raising renewed scrutiny over how major lenders respond to hardship pleas during periods of economic pressure.

The action has reignited debate around banking accountability and the responsibilities financial institutions carry when dealing with vulnerable customers.

The penalty follows legal action linked to thousands of hardship applications that were not processed within required timeframes. Financial hardship provisions are designed to provide assistance for customers struggling to meet loan repayments due to illness, unemployment, family breakdown, rising living costs or other financial difficulties.

Banks are expected to assess requests promptly and communicate clearly with customers seeking support.

However, investigations found Westpac failed to meet those obligations in numerous cases. The failures reportedly involved delayed assessments and prolonged response times affecting customers seeking relief during periods of financial stress.

Regulators argued the delays left vulnerable customers facing uncertainty and additional hardship while waiting for decisions on repayment

assistance and financial support options.

The case has placed renewed attention on hardship practices across the banking sector.

Consumer advocates say hardship systems are particularly important during periods of elevated mortgage costs and broader cost-of-living pressures.

Australia has experienced sustained financial strain in recent years, with higher interest rates, increased

insurance premiums and rising household expenses placing pressure on many families.

For borrowers already facing difficulty, delayed responses can compound financial stress and limit opportunities to restructure debts or negotiate repayment arrangements.

Westpac has acknowledged shortcomings in its hardship handling systems and has indicated improvements have been

introduced to strengthen response procedures and customer support.

The bank says it has taken steps to address the problems and improve internal processes to ensure hardship applications receive more timely attention.

The penalty sends a strong message to the broader financial sector.

Regulators have made clear that hardship obligations are not

optional and that financial institutions must meet legal standards when responding to customers experiencing financial distress.

For regional communities such as the Northern Rivers, the issue carries particular relevance.

Many households continue managing higher mortgage repayments, insurance increases and broader living expenses following years of economic uncertainty and natural disaster recovery challenges.

Access to timely banking support can be critical when families face unexpected setbacks.

Consumer groups say the case serves as an important reminder that borrowers experiencing hardship should contact their lender early and seek assistance before financial pressures escalate.

While the penalty represents a significant enforcement action, it also highlights wider questions about how Australia’s financial system supports customers during difficult times.

As economic pressures continue affecting households nationwide, expectations around fairness, responsiveness and banking accountability are likely to remain firmly in focus.

New Trust Tax Reforms Could Increase Pressure On Small Businesses

By Jeff Gibbs

Thousands of Australian small and family-run businesses could face higher tax bills and difficult restructuring decisions under proposed Federal Government changes to discretionary trust taxation, according to business advisory firm Halo Advisory.

The reforms, outlined in the 2026–27 Federal Budget, would introduce a 30 per cent minimum tax on discretionary trust distributions from July 1, 2028. The Government has also proposed a transitional rollover relief period from 2027 to allow businesses time to adjust

their structures if required.

While the policy has been presented as a measure designed to improve tax fairness among high-wealth individuals, Halo Advisory Director Greg Bartels believes the effects could be felt far more broadly across Australia's small business sector.

“Discretionary trusts are not just used by wealthy investors,” Mr Bartels said. “They are a common business structure used by thousands of family-owned enterprises to manage risk, protect assets and support long-term succession planning.”

More than 840,000 Australian entities

currently operate through discretionary trusts, with many found in industries such as agriculture, construction, retail and professional services.

Under the current system, income generated by a trust is distributed to beneficiaries and taxed according to their individual marginal tax rates. The proposed reforms would introduce a non-refundable 30 per cent tax floor on distributions, meaning trustees would effectively pay a flat rate of tax before beneficiaries receive credits.

According to Halo Advisory, the changes could particularly affect family businesses that distribute income among

spouses or adult children who are in lower tax brackets.

Mr Bartels said the issue extends beyond taxation and into the day-to-day financial management of small businesses.

“For many businessowning families, the real concern is cash flow,” he said. “A business could find itself paying substantially more tax while generating exactly the same level of income.”

The firm argues that discretionary trusts have traditionally provided more than tax flexibility. Many business owners have relied on trust structures to separate personal and business assets, helping

protect family wealth from commercial risks.

“Trust structures have long played an important role in asset protection,” Mr Bartels said. “The concern for many operators is whether those protections remain affordable if the ongoing tax burden increases significantly.”

Halo Advisory believes the proposed rollover relief period beginning in 2027 will become an important decision-making window for many businesses considering a move to company structures.

However, the firm warns that restructuring can be a complex and potentially costly process involving

legal advice, business valuations, accounting adjustments and long-term planning considerations.

“Business owners should not assume restructuring is a simple administrative exercise,” Mr Bartels said. “These decisions can have significant implications for future growth, succession planning and asset protection.”

With the proposed reforms still more than two years away, Halo Advisory is encouraging small business owners to seek professional advice early, review their existing structures and assess the potential impact on cash flow and future business planning before implementation begins.

MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE REVIEW

He-Man Returns In A Spectacular Fantasy Adventure

By Jeff Gibbs

After decades of anticipation, Masters of the Universe finally returns to the big screen with a modern reimagining of the iconic fantasy franchise. Directed by Travis Knight, the 2026 adaptation successfully captures the spirit of the classic cartoon while delivering an action-packed adventure designed for contemporary audiences. The story centres on Prince Adam, played by Nicholas Galitzine, who has spent years away from his home world of Eternia. When darkness threatens the kingdom and the sinister Skeletor launches his bid for ultimate power, Adam must embrace his destiny and transform into He-Man, the legendary protector of Eternia.

Galitzine proves to be a strong choice for the lead role. He brings genuine

heart to Adam, portraying him as more than simply a muscular hero. His journey from uncertain prince to courageous warrior provides the emotional backbone of the film and gives audiences someone to connect with beyond the spectacular action sequences.

Camila Mendes delivers an impressive performance as Teela, bringing confidence and determination to the skilled warrior. Idris Elba adds authority and wisdom as Duncan, better known as Man-At-Arms, while Jared Leto fully embraces the theatrical nature of Skeletor. His version of the villain is menacing, unpredictable and delightfully larger than life, making him a memorable antagonist throughout the film.

Visually, Masters of the Universe is one of the year's most impressive fantasy productions. Eternia is brought to life through stunning landscapes, elaborate costumes and

detailed world-building.

Castle Grayskull looks magnificent, while classic characters and creatures have been faithfully recreated with modern effects technology. Fans of the original series will appreciate the many familiar designs and references scattered throughout the film.

The action sequences are another highlight. Sword fights, magical battles and large-scale confrontations are staged with energy and clarity, ensuring audiences remain engaged from beginning to end. Director Travis Knight balances spectacle with character development, preventing the film from becoming just another effects-driven blockbuster.

One of the film's greatest achievements is its willingness to embrace the colourful mythology that made the franchise famous. Rather than distancing itself from its source material, the

movie celebrates the fantasy elements, iconic characters and adventurous spirit that have kept He-Man popular for generations. While the screenplay occasionally falls back on familiar fantasy tropes and some supporting characters receive limited development, these shortcomings do little to diminish the overall enjoyment. The film understands exactly what audiences want from a Masters of the Universe adventure and delivers it with confidence.

For Australian audiences who grew up watching He-Man on television, this reboot offers a welcome dose of nostalgia. For younger viewers, it serves as an exciting introduction to one of pop culture's most enduring heroes.

A visually spectacular and entertaining return to Eternia that successfully brings He-Man into a new era while respecting the legacy that made him a legend.

SPECIAL SCREENINGS

LEVITICUS CTC ADVANCE SCREENING

Fri: 8:30PM – Fright Night Preview

NETWORK (M Mon: 6:30PM – Cult Vault

THE DEATH OF ROBIN HOOD (CTC) Wed: 6:30PM – Movie Club Preview

THE MUSICIANS (PG) Fri, Sat, Sun: 1:00PM – Adv Screenings

FAMILY FILMS

THE MAGIC FARAWAY TREE (G Sat, Sun: 10:45AM

THE SHEEP DETECTIVES PG Daily: 10:45AM, 1:20PM

ALL FILMS

BACKROOMS M) Daily except Wed: 1:30PM, 4:00PM, 6:15PM, 8:30PM. Wed: 1:30PM, 3:45PM, 6:15PM, 8:30PM

COLONY (MA15+ NFT

Daily except Mon, Wed: 12:50PM, 3:50PM, 8:30PM. Mon, Wed: 12:50PM, 3:40PM, 8:30PM

DISCLOSURE DAY (M NFT

Daily: 11:00AM, 1:00PM, 2:00PM, 4:00PM, 5:00PM, 6:15PM, 7:00PM, 8:00PM

MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE (M) NFT Thurs, Sat, Sun, Tues: 10:50AM, 8:00PM. Fri: 10:50AM. Mon: 10:45AM, 8:00PM. Wed: 10:45AM

MICHAEL PG Daily: 10:45AM, 3:40PM, 7:40PM

OBSESSION (MA15+ Daily except Wed: 1:45PM, 3:50PM, 6:00PM, 8:20PM.

SCARY MOVIE ((MA15+ Thurs, Tues, Wed: 1:00PM, 5:40PM, 8:30PM. Fri, Sat, Sun: 5:40PM, 8:30PM. Mon: 1:00PM, 5:40PM Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu (M) Daily: 10:45AM, 3:20PM THE CHRISTOPHERS (MA15+ Daily except Mon, Wed: 10:45AM, 1:40PM, 6:20PM. Mon: 10:45AM, 1:30PM, 6:20PM. Wed: 10:45AM, 1:30PM

THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA 2 (M ) Daily except Wed: 11:15AM, 3:10PM. Wed: 11:00AM, 3:10PM

TRIFOLE M) NFT Thurs, Fri, Tues, Wed: 10:45AM, 1:10PM, 6:20PM. Sat, Sun: 1:10PM, 6:20PM. Mon: 10:45AM, 1:10PM

TUNER (MA15+) NFT Daily except Wed: 10:50AM, 3:20PM, 5:45PM. Wed: 10:50AM, 3:20PM, 6:00PM

BACKROOMS (M) Daily: 3:10PM, 5:00PM

DISCLOSURE DAY (CTC) ADVANCE SCREENING Daily: 10:00AM, 1:00PM, 4:00PM, 7:00PM

MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE (M Daily except Sat, Sun: 9:45AM MICHAEL (PG) Daily: 12:30PM, 7:20PM

OBSESSION (MA15+) Daily: 12:40PM, 5:30PM

SCARY MOVIE (CTC) NFT Daily: 3:00PM, 7:45PM STAR WARS: THE MANDALORIAN AND GROGU M) Daily: 9:50AM THE SHEEP DETECTIVES (PG) Sat, Sun: 10:10AM

TARGET TIME

L G E

S W N

R I T

Today’s target:

25 words average 32 words good

40+ 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

ARIES (Mar 21 - Apr 19)

Rambunctious Rams can appear confident on the outside but – with Saturn and Neptune visiting your sign – the main dangers at the moment are selfcriticism and self-doubt. Be kind to yourself this week. Fortunately – on Tuesday and Wednesday – Venus and Jupiter (the two lucky planets) hook up in your home zone. So, look out for some good news via a relative, housemate or family friend. And the weekend is wonderful for social events and creative projects.

TAURUS (Apr 20 - May 20)

Venus (your patron planet) links up with Jupiter (planet of prosperity and joy) on Tuesday and Wednesday, when you’re at your charismatic and generous best. Make the most of it as you turn on the Taurus charm, dazzle the doubters and call in a few old favours! They link up in your neighbourhood zone so prepare to make some lucky connections within your local community. Short trips (especially interstate) are also likely in the weeks ahead.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 20)

This week – courtesy of Wednesday’s Mercury/ Saturn square – work or finances look rather stressful, and you won’t have the patience to put up with annoying people or tedious explanations. So, strive to extricate yourself from negative situations in tactful ways. Communication and conversation are the buzzwords on the weekend as you circulate in your local community, discuss current affairs, learn a new skill or share some exciting news.

CANCER (June 21 - July 22)

Lucky Venus and prosperous Jupiter join up in your sign, and conscientious Saturn is visiting your career zone. So, make sure you have done all the hard work that’s required, so you can take advantage of good fortune when it comes along. Your motto for the week is ‘Preparation + Opportunity = Success’. There are lessons to be learned on Wednesday (especially at work) so make sure you learn them quickly and don’t keep on repeating the same mistakes.

CROSS WORD FIND

LEO (July 23 - Aug 22)

Tuesday and Wednesday are the best days to relax, meditate and/or contemplate your life and where you are going, as Venus and philosophical Jupiter link up in your spirituality and solitude zones. Then the weekend is the time to mix and mingle, socialise, party and let your hair down when vivacious Venus races into your sign. So, your motto for the week is from His Holiness the Dalai Lama: “Happiness is not something readymade. It comes from your own actions.”

VIRGO (Aug 23 - Sep 22)

Virgos love to feel productive, but does it seem as if you’re treading water at work or a close relationship is going backwards? This week Saturn slows things down and increases frustrations. But lucky Venus also hooks up with prosperous Jupiter, which encourages you to pair up with a creative colleague and make your professional dreams come true. If you are flexible and open to new ideas, then a flash of brilliance could suddenly turn things around.

LIBRA (Sep 23 - Oct 22)

Many Librans will feel unusually restless, as the Sun and Uranus activate your freedom zone. Exercise and outdoor activities are favoured as you channel energy into physical pursuits, go on a grand adventure or connect with friends from far away. Just make sure you nurture relationships with people who support your aspirations. Tuesday and Wednesday are lucky days (especially at work) as Jupiter (planet of good fortune) links up with your ruler, Venus.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 - Nov 21)

You’re determined to complete a project with creative panache and loads of Scorpio style. But there are some frustrating planetary patterns, so expect power plays, disruptions or delays. Patience and compromise are required. When it comes to work projects and your daily routine, the big lesson to learn is how to delegate. No-one (not even a super-organised Scorpio) is indispensable! On Tuesday and Wednesday, dream big dreams and follow your heart.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 - Dec 21)

This week, if you’re argumentative with a family member, close friend or work colleague, then they will be in the mood to fight back! So – if you want to avoid fiery clashes – do your best to be more tolerant and understanding towards others. Plus try to view a troubled close relationship from a much more philosophical perspective. The winning formula for smooth Sagittarian communication is conversation + cooperation + generosity = joy.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 - Jan 19)

Taskmaster Saturn (your ruling planet) squares Mercury on Wednesday, so expect a stressful day of frustrations and challenges (especially involving your partner, a family member or a close friend). And a work colleague could say or do something that makes you gasp. Writer Joyce Carol Oates (who turns 88 on June 16) reminds us: “Sometimes people surprise us. People we believe we know.” A flexible, philosophical approach will get you through.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 - Feb 18)

You’re in the mood to party as the Sun and Uranus (your patron planet) activate your entertainment zone. But Saturn squares Mercury (on Wednesday) so avoid skimming over important details – and remember there’s a fine line between making snap decisions and making messy mistakes. If you don’t pace yourself, then you’ll be exhausted by the end of the week. Astute Aquarians will slow down, enjoy the ride and practice the gentle art of patience.

PISCES (Feb 19 - Mar 20)

The planets encourage you to express your compassion and creativity, so don’t undervalue your kind heart and creative talents. It’s a wonderful week to enjoy a romantic interlude with your partner, fix a floundering friendship or find your soulmate. But don’t sit around hoping Lady Luck and Cupid’s arrow will strike. With Venus and Jupiter in your romance and good fortune zone, you need to consciously attract more love and abundance into your life.

BEST ON THE BOX

SATURDAY

DEATH IN PARADISE

ABC TV, 7.30pm

After initially believing the official line that his late mother’s death was an accident, DI Mervin Wilson (Don Gilet) is closer than ever to the truth in this penultimate chapter of this crime drama’s 14th season. Given the go-ahead to reopen the investigation, the detective now has the entire Honoré police department helping out. That is, except new Commissioner Sterling Fox (Trieve Blackwood-Cambridge, above), who is determined to make his presence known. Just as the team starts to make headway, Sterling pulls rank and throws a spanner in the works. With a suspect in their sights, it’s a race against time to reconnect with the past and solve the personal mystery.

FRIDAY, June 12

SUNDAY

SOCCER WORLD CUP: AUSTRALIA V TÜRKIYE

SBS, 1pm

As the Socceroos kick off their FIFA World Cup campaign in Vancouver this weekend, fans will be relieved to know that they won’t have to set any alarms for the opening match against Türkiye. This is only the third meeting on the pitch for the two nations – and the first since 2004, when the Crescent Stars prevailed in two friendlies. Marking their sixth consecutive FIFA World Cup, Tony Popovic’s Aussie squad will be hoping not only to record a historic first win against Türkiye, but also to build on their impressive Round of 16 run at Qatar 2022. Niav Owens and Claudio Fabiano host SBS’s live, free and exclusive coverage, while David Basheer (right) leads the call.

COLDWATER

Intent on avoiding the violent crime in his London neighbourhood, stay-at-home dad John (Andrew Lincoln, pictured, The Walking Dead) convinced his wife Fiona (Indira Varma) and two children to move to the Scottish Highlands for some rural relaxation. Now settled in the quiet town of Coldwater, John is aware that he has jumped out of the frying pan and into the fire. His own longrepressed rage came to a head in last week’s premiere, leaving him indebted to his serial-killerobsessed neighbour Tommy (Ewen Bremner). The bloke is bad news, but John can’t seem to tell, joining him on a hunting trip in this bizarre chapter. A layered examination of masculinity lies beneath the surface of this riveting atmospheric thriller.

ABC TV (2) SBS (3) SEVEN (6) TEN (5) NBN (8, 80)

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Compass. (PG, R) 10.25 Stu The British Stole. (PG, R) 10.55 Race Around The World. (PG, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 The Assembly. (PG, R) 1.45 Ground Up. (M, R) 2.10 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) 3.00 Restoration Australia. (R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGv, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group A. Mexico v South Africa. Cont. 7.30 France 24 English News. 8.00 DD India News Hour. 9.00 For The Love Of Dogs. (PGa, R) 9.30

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

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

7.30 Gardening Australia. (Final) Millie Ross sheds light on garden lighting.

8.30 Shetland. (Malv) The team uncovers the sinister truth behind the facility. Astrid Jakobson goes missing.

9.30 Race Around The World. (PG, R) A new generation of  lmmakers travels the world and tells stories through their lms.

10.30 Gruen. (PG, R)

11.10 ABC Late News.

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

12.10 Love Me. (Final, MA15+s, R)

1.05 Rage New Music. (MA15+dhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

News At Ten. 10.00 France 24. 10.30

News. 11.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group A. Korea Republic v Czechia. 2.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group A. Mexico v South Africa. Replay. 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 Your Money & Your Life. (Return, PG) 1.30 Jabba’s Movies School Holiday Special. (PG, R) 2.00 Bridge Of Lies: Celebrity Specials.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. 6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Paul Merton: Driving Amazing Trains. (PG)

8.30 Record-Breaking Highways.

9.35 Michael Palin In North Korea. (R)

10.30 SBS World News Late.

11.00 FIFA World Cup 2026: Highlights Show. (Premiere)

11.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Tour Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes. Stage 6. 1.20 The Typist. (Mav, R) 2.25 Rainbow Warrior: Murder In The Paci c. (PG, R)

3.20 Great British Railway Journeys. (R)

3.55 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (R) 4.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group B. Canada v Bosnia and Herzegovina.

VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 10.55 Children’s Programs. 2.30pm Daniel Tiger’s. 2.45 The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 4.05 Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures. 4.40 Ariel. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.55 BattleBots. 9.40 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 10.30 Merlin. 11.15 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)

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

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs and the team demonstrate some terri c ideas for the house, garden and the kitchen, as well as e ective and appealing ways to renovate, cook and decorate.

8.00 To Be Advised.

12.00 MOVIE: Deadly Rideshare. (2020, Mav, R) A fashion designer develops a bond with a dangerous fellow passenger during a ride-sharing trip. Taylor Spreitler, Danielle Burgess, Amanda Grace Benitez. 2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Three contestants go head to head in a test of brain power.

5.00 NBC Today. News and current a airs.

7TWO (62)

6am Morning Programs. Noon DW The Day. 12.30 Hoarders. 2.05 Who Killed The WCW? 3.00 Bamay. 3.40 BBC News At Ten. 4.10 France 24. 4.40 PBS News. 5.40 Inside The Huddle. 6.10 Over The Black Dot. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Cup Fever! (Premiere) 9.00 The UnXplained. 9.50 The Americans. 10.45 Fashionista. 11.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group A. Mexico v South Africa. Replay. 2.30am 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 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.

7MATE (64) SBS MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 2pm ER. 2.45 Abbott Elementary. 3.05 QI. 3.35 Would I Lie To You? 4.05 MythBusters. 4.55 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent. 5.40 Grand Designs. 6.30 House Of Games. 7.00 Spicks And Specks. 7.30 QI. 8.00 Would I Lie To You? 8.30

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current A air. 7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 15. Dolphins v Sydney Roosters. From Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane.

9.55 NRL Friday Night Footy Post-Match. Post-match coverage and analysis of the NRL game between the Dolphins and Sydney Roosters.

10.45 MOVIE: Lethal Weapon. (1987, Mdlv, R) Two detectives pursue drug tra ckers. Mel Gibson, Danny Glover. 1.00 Fish Forever: Remote Vanuatu. (R) Presented by Al McGlashan.

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)

9GEM (82)

6am Seaway. 7.00 Cre

CruiseAway. 8.00 TV Shop. 10.30

9GO! (83) 6am Del n. Continued. (2019, PG, Spanish) 6.15 84 Charing Cross Road. (1987, PG) 8.05 The Orator. (2011, PG, Samoan) 10.10 The Tunnel (Part 2) (2001, M) Noon Man Who Didn’t Want To See The Titanic. (2021, M, Finnish) 1.35 I Accidentally Wrote A Book. (2024, PG, Hungarian) 3.25 Pride & Prejudice. (2005) 5.45 A Room With A View. (1985, PG) 7.50 The Take. (2016, M) 9.30 Notes On A Scandal. (2006) 11.15 Gosford Park. (2001, M) 1.45am Sin City. (2005, MA15+) 3.55 The Furnace. (2020, M)

6am Morning Programs.

The Chronicles Of Narnia: The Voyage Of The Dawn Treader. (2010, PG) 9.45 MOVIE: The Circle. (2017, M) Midnight MOVIE: All Eyez On Me. (2017, MA15+) 2.45 Australian Ninja Warrior. 4.30 I Love VIP Pets. 4.50 LEGO Friends: Girls On A Mission. 5.10

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 Selling Houses Australia. (PGa, R) The team helps a couple in Maroubra. 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)

(51)

It

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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

ARIES (Mar 21 - Apr 19)

Rambunctious Rams can appear confident on the outside but – with Saturn and Neptune visiting your sign – the main dangers at the moment are selfcriticism and self-doubt. Be kind to yourself this week. Fortunately – on Tuesday and Wednesday – Venus and Jupiter (the two lucky planets) hook up in your home zone. So, look out for some good news via a relative, housemate or family friend. And the weekend is wonderful for social events and creative projects.

TAURUS (Apr 20 - May 20)

Venus (your patron planet) links up with Jupiter (planet of prosperity and joy) on Tuesday and Wednesday, when you’re at your charismatic and generous best. Make the most of it as you turn on the Taurus charm, dazzle the doubters and call in a few old favours! They link up in your neighbourhood zone so prepare to make some lucky connections within your local community. Short trips (especially interstate) are also likely in the weeks ahead.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 20)

This week – courtesy of Wednesday’s Mercury/ Saturn square – work or finances look rather stressful, and you won’t have the patience to put up with annoying people or tedious explanations. So, strive to extricate yourself from negative situations in tactful ways. Communication and conversation are the buzzwords on the weekend as you circulate in your local community, discuss current affairs, learn a new skill or share some exciting news.

CANCER (June 21 - July 22)

Lucky Venus and prosperous Jupiter join up in your sign, and conscientious Saturn is visiting your career zone. So, make sure you have done all the hard work that’s required, so you can take advantage of good fortune when it comes along. Your motto for the week is ‘Preparation + Opportunity = Success’. There are lessons to be learned on Wednesday (especially at work) so make sure you learn them quickly and don’t keep on repeating the same mistakes.

CROSS WORD FIND

Moore

LEO (July 23 - Aug 22)

Tuesday and Wednesday are the best days to relax, meditate and/or contemplate your life and where you are going, as Venus and philosophical Jupiter link up in your spirituality and solitude zones. Then the weekend is the time to mix and mingle, socialise, party and let your hair down when vivacious Venus races into your sign. So, your motto for the week is from His Holiness the Dalai Lama: “Happiness is not something readymade. It comes from your own actions.”

VIRGO (Aug 23 - Sep 22)

Virgos love to feel productive, but does it seem as if you’re treading water at work or a close relationship is going backwards? This week Saturn slows things down and increases frustrations. But lucky Venus also hooks up with prosperous Jupiter, which encourages you to pair up with a creative colleague and make your professional dreams come true. If you are flexible and open to new ideas, then a flash of brilliance could suddenly turn things around.

LIBRA (Sep 23 - Oct 22)

Many Librans will feel unusually restless, as the Sun and Uranus activate your freedom zone. Exercise and outdoor activities are favoured as you channel energy into physical pursuits, go on a grand adventure or connect with friends from far away.

Just make sure you nurture relationships with people who support your aspirations. Tuesday and Wednesday are lucky days (especially at work) as Jupiter (planet of good fortune) links up with your ruler, Venus.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 - Nov 21)

You’re determined to complete a project with creative panache and loads of Scorpio style. But there are some frustrating planetary patterns, so expect power plays, disruptions or delays.

Patience and compromise are required. When it comes to work projects and your daily routine, the big lesson to learn is how to delegate. No-one (not even a super-organised Scorpio) is indispensable!

On Tuesday and Wednesday, dream big dreams and follow your heart.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 - Dec 21)

This week, if you’re argumentative with a family member, close friend or work colleague, then they will be in the mood to fight back! So – if you want to avoid fiery clashes – do your best to be more tolerant and understanding towards others. Plus try to view a troubled close relationship from a much more philosophical perspective. The winning formula for smooth Sagittarian communication is conversation + cooperation + generosity = joy.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 - Jan 19)

Taskmaster Saturn (your ruling planet) squares Mercury on Wednesday, so expect a stressful day of frustrations and challenges (especially involving your partner, a family member or a close friend). And a work colleague could say or do something that makes you gasp. Writer Joyce Carol Oates (who turns 88 on June 16) reminds us: “Sometimes people surprise us. People we believe we know.” A flexible, philosophical approach will get you through.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 - Feb 18)

You’re in the mood to party as the Sun and Uranus (your patron planet) activate your entertainment zone. But Saturn squares Mercury (on Wednesday) so avoid skimming over important details – and remember there’s a fine line between making snap decisions and making messy mistakes. If you don’t pace yourself, then you’ll be exhausted by the end of the week. Astute Aquarians will slow down, enjoy the ride and practice the gentle art of patience.

PISCES (Feb 19 - Mar 20)

The planets encourage you to express your compassion and creativity, so don’t undervalue your kind heart and creative talents. It’s a wonderful week to enjoy a romantic interlude with your partner, fix a floundering friendship or find your soulmate. But don’t sit around hoping Lady Luck and Cupid’s arrow will strike. With Venus and Jupiter in your romance and good fortune zone, you need to consciously attract more love and abundance into your life.

Celebrating NAIDOC Exhibition Showcases First Nations Art In Casino

Acclaimed Artists And Cultural Leaders Featured In Special Gallery Exhibition

By Jeff Gibbs

The Cassino Art Gallery will celebrate the richness, diversity and cultural significance of First Nations art when it opens its annual Celebrating NAIDOC Exhibition on Saturday, June 13.

The exhibition will feature an impressive collection of paintings, artefacts and cultural works from a variety of First Nations artists, including internationally acclaimed Yuin artist Lloyd Gawura Hornsby from Glen Innes, alongside respected Galibal Elder Noel Caldwell, widely known as Uncle Charlie.

Hosted by the volunteerrun Cassino Art Gallery, the exhibition highlights both established and emerging Indigenous artists from across the Northern Rivers and surrounding regions. Many of the works on display will also be available for purchase.

paintings and artefacts,” Ms Beek said.

members of the public. The Celebrating NAIDOC Exhibition promises to be a significant cultural event for Casino, providing visitors with an opportunity to experience powerful stories, artistic excellence and the enduring cultural heritage of Australia's First Nations peoples.

EXHIBITION DETAILS

Exhibition opening: Saturday June 13, 2-4pm, Cassino Art Gallery, 148 Barker Street, Casino. All welcome - $10 entry including a drink and nibbles. Exhibition open days: From June 18 - Thursdays to Saturdays, 10am-3pm; Sundays 10am -2pm. gold coin donation July 5th to 12th during NAIDOC Week – open Monday-Friday 10am-3pm W: www.cassinogallery.org.au FB: www.facebook.com/ cassinoartgallery E: cassinoartgallery@gmail. com

Gallery President Maree Beek said the exhibition reflects the gallery's growing reputation for delivering high-quality cultural and artistic experiences for the community.

“We are proud to present an exhibition featuring such an impressive and varied collection of First Nations

“The exhibition reflects the strength of Indigenous culture and storytelling while also showcasing the extraordinary artistic talent that exists throughout our region and beyond.”

cultural hub through its yearround program of exhibitions and community events.

A major attraction of this year's exhibition is the inclusion of works by Lloyd Gawura Hornsby, whose art has gained national and international recognition. A descendant of the Yuin and Chinese peoples of the New South Wales South Coast, Hornsby's paintings have been exhibited extensively throughout Australia and overseas.

His works have featured in prestigious venues including the Louvre Museum in Paris, the Monat Gallery in Madrid and numerous galleries throughout Europe. Today, his artworks form part of both public and private collections around the world.

The exhibition will also showcase works by Noel Caldwell (Uncle Charlie), a respected Galibal Elder renowned not only for his artistic talents but also for his dedication to preserving and sharing First Nations culture. Through his work with students across the region, Uncle Charlie has played a significant role in teaching Indigenous language, dance and cultural traditions to younger generations.

Located at 148 Barker Street, Casino, opposite the soon-to-open Casino Suspension Bridge, the gallery has become an important

As part of the exhibition program, visitors will have the opportunity to gain deeper insight into Indigenous art and culture during a special artist talk and question-and-answer session on Sunday, June 14.

The session will feature

WARWICK LIVESTOCK MARKET FIRMS AS RAIN SLOWS SUPPLY

Warwick livestock numbers eased for the week ending 5 June 2026, as useful rainfall across local districts slowed turn-off from both cattle and sheep producers.

Agents yarded 976 head of cattle, with demand strengthening as supply tightened. The market continued to rise across most cattle categories, with feeder and vealer steers attracting particularly strong competition.

The cattle yarding averaged $1,493.73 per head.

Cattle results included: Bulls averaged 347c/kg, topping at 414.2c/kg, with returns from $1,702.46 to $3,565.80.

Cows averaged 337.1c/ kg, topping at 435c/kg, returning $1,739.02 to $3,610.80.

Feeder heifers averaged 394.8c/kg, topping at 448.2c/kg, making $1,285.35 to $1,869.00.

Feeder steers averaged 479.5c/kg, topping at 528.2c/kg, with returns from $1,783.11 to $2,486.64.

Heifers averaged 399.7c/ kg, topping at 454.2c/ kg, returning $1,899.37 to $3,511.41.

Steers averaged 455.8c/kg, topping at 481.2c/kg, with returns from $2,578.63 to $3,112.56.

Vealer heifers averaged 393.1c/kg, topping at 460c/ kg, making $793.88 to $1,221.36.

Vealer steers averaged 473.6c/kg, topping at 584.2c/kg, with returns from $1,000 to $1,448.37.

Yearling heifers averaged 413.7c/kg, topping at 454.2c/kg, making $1,282.76 to $1,910.48.

Yearling steers averaged 455.5c/kg, topping at 528.2c/kg, with returns from $1,396.92 to $1,760.89.

Sheep And Lamb Market Eases Slightly

Sheep and lamb numbers were also down, with 1,681 head yarded. The offering was mainly made up of trade and feed-on types, rather than top-end processing stock.

Stock was drawn from across Queensland, including Collinsville, Charleville, the Maranoa, Southern Downs and Traprock areas.

Lambs topped at $340 to average $200.37, down $7/ head.

Hoggets topped at $287 to average $198.24, up $54/ head.

Ram lambs topped at $175 to average $107.29, down $89/head.

Ewes topped at $227 to average $149.83, up $3/ head.

Wethers topped at $171 to average $153.67, down $7/ head.

Rams topped at $180 to average $167.42, down $17/ head.

The total sheep and lamb

NRLX PRIME CATTLE MARKET HOLDS FIRM

Strong Cow And Bullock Demand Supports Market

The Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange (NRLX) Prime Cattle Sale on 3 June 2026 saw a yarding of 2,429 head offered across 850 lots, with strong processor competition supporting a generally firm market across most categories.

Heavy bullocks were among the standout performers, averaging 442.8c/kg and reaching a top of 466.2c/kg. Prices ranged from $1,496 to $3,368.30 per head, generating total turnover of more than $187,000.

Cows dominated the yarding with 930 head offered. Demand remained solid, particularly for well-finished lines, with cows averaging 352.3c/ kg and topping at 405c/ kg. Returns ranged from $435.39 to $3,135.60 per head.

Bulls averaged 358.9c/ kg and sold to a top of 394.2c/kg, returning between $988 and $3,528.09. Heifers also attracted strong buyer interest, averaging 402.8c/ kg and peaking at 500c/ kg, while returning up to $2,519.06 per head.

Steers remained one of the strongest categories, averaging 491c/kg and reaching a sale high of 562.2c/kg. Individual returns ranged from $97.50 to $2,229.38.

Limited numbers of vealers and yearlings were offered. Vealer bulls averaged 417.5c/kg and topped at 510c/kg, while yearlings averaged 388.3c/ kg and sold to 390.2c/kg. Across all categories, the sale averaged 393.1c/kg, with an average return of $1,396.40 per head. Total sale turnover exceeded $3.39 million, reflecting

continued confidence from processors and restockers despite tighter seasonal supply in some districts.

Market Highlights

• Bullocks: 71 head averaged 442.8c/kg, topping at 466.2c/kg.

• Bulls: 44 head averaged 358.9c/kg, topping at 394.2c/kg.

• Cows: 930 head averaged 352.3c/kg, topping at 405c/kg.

• Heifers: 673 head averaged 402.8c/kg, topping at 500c/kg.

• Steers: 673 head averaged 491c/kg, topping at 562.2c/kg.

• Vealer Bulls: 29 head averaged 417.5c/kg, topping at 510c/kg.

• Sale Average: 393.1c/ kg.

• Total Yarding: 2,429 head.

By The Northern Rivers Rural News Desk

yarding averaged $181.64, a fall of $4/head week-onweek.

Vendor Highlights

Hellyar Family sold 56kg Australian White lambs to Eversons for $316, while 48kg lambs made $296 to GR Prime.

Neville Baldock sold 62.5kg Dorper lambs to Eversons for $308, 58.1kg hoggets to Take It Easy Meats for $240, and ewes to Take It Easy Meats for $222.

Shane Cartwright sold 47.2kg Australian White lambs to Jock Young Meats for $285.

Cameron Gillam sold 49kg Southdown lambs to David Ryan for $296, 47.9kg

lambs to GR Prime for $289, 46.6kg Dorper lambs to McMahon Bros for $280, and 45kg lambs to Nutrien Toowoomba for $280.

Rams sold to Eversons for $139.

Les Holten sold 55kg Dorper lambs to Eversons for $316.

McDougall F/T sold 45.7kg Dorper lambs to GR Prime for $270, while 26.7kg lambs sold to restockers for $92.

Rob and Kelly Regan sold 26.5kg Dorper lambs to restockers for $90.

GSF Contracting sold Merino wethers to McIntyre Meats for $171.

Bill Hindmarsh sold Merino wethers to

restockers for $148.

JD Rural sold Dorper ewes to McIntyre Meats for $190. Pigs And Poultry Pig numbers were limited, with most pork penned in store categories. Boars sold from $100 to $145.

Sows sold from $90 to $440.

Pork made $150 to $280. Light pork sold to $164. Stores made $138 to $182. Poultry numbers remained strong, with roosters and hens selling to $50, pullets to $45, and guinea fowl to $30.

By The Northern Rivers Rural News Desk

Agriculture Output Forecast To Ease Amid Drier Conditions

Farm Production Expected To Remain Strong Despite Seasonal Pressures

By Ian Rogers

Australia’s agricultural sector is expected to remain resilient despite mounting seasonal and economic pressures, with new forecasts predicting a decline in farm production values following last year’s record performance.

The latest outlook from the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) forecasts the value of agricultural production to fall by 5 per cent to $98.3 billion in 2026–27, following a record-breaking 2025–26 season.

When fisheries and forestry are included,

the combined value is expected to reach $104.5 billion.

Agricultural exports are also forecast to decline, falling by approximately $7 billion to $74.8 billion, or $79.3 billion when forestry and fisheries exports are added.

ABARES says the anticipated drop reflects lower crop production volumes, falling livestock prices and expectations of less favourable seasonal conditions across key farming regions.

While elevated fuel and fertiliser costs continue to pressure farm budgets, seasonal conditions are expected to have the greatest influence on

producer decision-making.

ABARES Acting

Executive Director David Galeano said recent farm planning had been heavily influenced by rainfall patterns and profitability.

“Farmers’ decisions over the last few months have been shaped heavily by seasonal conditions and gross margins,” Mr Galeano said.

“Despite the headwinds facing the sector, farmers who have received favourable rainfall are making the most of the opportunity.”

Mr Galeano said uneven rainfall during summer and autumn had already affected agricultural activity in some areas.

“Variable rainfall in summer and autumn has limited area planted to winter crops and pasture growth in some regions,” he said.

“Many cropping regions are also expected to face drier than average winter conditions.”

The outlook predicts total crop production value will decline by $4.5 billion to $50.9 billion in 2026–27.

Australian winter crop production is forecast to fall by 21 per cent to 54.5 million tonnes, driven by reduced planting areas and lower average yields. Despite the decline, recent summer crop production remains

comparatively strong.

ABARES estimates summer crop production fell by 15 per cent to 4.4 million tonnes during 2025–26, although this still sits comfortably above the ten-year average.

The livestock and livestock products sector is also forecast to soften, with production value expected to decline by $1.1 billion to $47.4 billion, largely due to easing livestock prices following record highs.

Higher operating costs combined with lower commodity prices are expected to place additional pressure on farm profitability.

ABARES forecasts average broadacre farm business profits will decline by 70 per cent during 2026–27.

“We expect fertiliser and fuel input costs to remain elevated,” Mr Galeano said.

“Farm revenue is forecast to decline due to lower crop and livestock production volumes and lower prices received for livestock.”

Despite the forecast easing, agriculture remains one of Australia’s strongest economic contributors, with producers continuing to adapt to changing seasonal and market conditions.

Funding Boost To Help Fresh Produce Growers Understand Their Rights

New training program aims to strengthen confidence and fairness in supplier negotiations

By Ian Rogers

Australia’s fresh produce growers are set to benefit from a new education and training initiative designed to help suppliers better understand and exercise their rights when dealing with major supermarket chains.

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) Horticulture Council has welcomed the Australian Government’s decision to fund industry organisations, including the NFF, to deliver the Know Your Grocery Code program across the country.

The program will provide free training to fresh fruit, vegetable and mushroom suppliers, helping them navigate the mandatory Food and Grocery Code of Conduct and better understand the protections available to them when negotiating with large grocery businesses.

NFF Horticulture Council

Executive Officer Richard Shannon said the funding represented an important step towards creating a fairer trading environment for Australian growers.

“Having rights under the Code matters. But those rights are only as strong as the capacity of suppliers to understand them, assert them and act on them,” Mr Shannon said.

“That takes knowledge, confidence and skills, and that's exactly what this investment will build.”

The Food and Grocery

Code of Conduct was strengthened in recent years to improve fairness and transparency in commercial relationships between suppliers and large retailers. However, industry leaders say many growers remain uncertain about how to utilise the protections available to them.

Fresh produce suppliers often face unique challenges compared with businesses in other sectors.

Crops require significant upfront investment, growing cycles can take months, and produce is highly perishable, leaving growers vulnerable to changing market conditions and buyer decisions.

Mr Shannon said these factors create additional pressure when suppliers enter negotiations with major retailers.

“Fresh produce suppliers face real structural pressures when negotiating with large grocery

businesses,” he said.

“Products are perishable, growing cycles are long, and significant costs are committed well before a buyer makes any decisions. This program will help suppliers go into those conversations better prepared and better protected.”

The Know Your Grocery Code program will be delivered through a combination of online and face-to-face training sessions across metropolitan, regional and rural Australia.

The NFF Horticulture Council said accessibility would be a key focus,

with efforts being made to ensure growers from diverse backgrounds can participate, including First Nations producers and culturally and linguistically diverse farming communities.

“We want every fresh produce supplier in this country to be able to access this training, wherever they are and whatever their circumstances,” Mr Shannon said.

The Council also welcomed indications that further improvements to the Food and Grocery Code of Conduct could be considered during its next review, scheduled for next year.

Several recommendations put forward by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) have already received in-principle support

from the Australian Government, raising hopes that additional protections for suppliers may be introduced.

Mr Shannon said the horticulture sector looked forward to working closely with government to ensure growers’ voices are heard throughout the review process.

“The Code has come a long way, and we're grateful to the Government for the reforms already delivered. The next review is a real opportunity to build on that progress,” he said.

The NFF Horticulture Council has thanked the Federal Government for its commitment to strengthening the position of Australia's fresh produce suppliers and supporting a more transparent and equitable food supply chain.

Paraquat Review Sparks Debate Over Farm Chemical Use

Farmers Back Science-Based Regulation As Review Nears Completion

By Ian Rogers

Australian farmers have reiterated their support for science-based regulation of agricultural chemicals as the national review of paraquat moves towards a final decision later this year. The statement comes amid renewed public discussion surrounding the herbicide, which has been widely used in Australian agriculture for decades to control weeds and support crop production.

National Farmers’ Federation (NFF)

President Hamish McIntyre said farmers take their responsibility to protect both people and the environment seriously, noting that sustainable food and fibre production depends on healthy communities and ecosystems.

Mr McIntyre said modern

farming practices operate under significantly stricter safety requirements than in previous decades, with regulations governing chemical use, training requirements, personal protective equipment and application methods.

“It is absolutely critical the products farmers use are safe for both people and the environment,” he said.

The NFF emphasised

that decisions about agricultural chemicals in Australia are made by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA), the nation’s independent regulator responsible for assessing scientific evidence and determining how products may be used.

According to the federation, the APVMA continuously reviews domestic and international

scientific research while considering Australian farming conditions before making regulatory decisions.

Mr McIntyre said farmers rely on the independent scientific process to determine which products remain available and under what conditions they can be used.

“We are not scientists, but we have a responsibility to follow the rules, use products correctly and continually improve practices as new information becomes available,” he said.

Paraquat remains an important weed management tool for many Australian farming operations. Industry groups argue that it plays a significant role in supporting conservation agriculture practices, including no-till farming systems.

No-till farming reduces soil disturbance by minimising cultivation, helping retain soil moisture, reduce erosion and improve soil structure.

Supporters of paraquat say the herbicide assists farmers in controlling weeds without the need for repeated cultivation.

The NFF said these practices are becoming increasingly important as farmers face more variable seasonal conditions and seek ways to improve long-term sustainability while maintaining productivity.

The organisation also stressed that farmer safety remains a priority and that any regulatory decisions should continue to be based on robust scientific evidence.

“We don’t want to see farmers put at risk, so it is critical that regulatory decisions continue to be

guided by robust scientific evidence, and that safety requirements are clear, practical and enforced,” Mr McIntyre said.

The APVMA is currently undertaking a review of paraquat and is expected to hand down its decision during the middle of the year.

The outcome is being closely watched by agricultural industries, environmental groups and health advocates, with the review expected to influence future weed management practices across a range of farming sectors.

The NFF says it will continue providing members with evidencebased information throughout the process while supporting confidence in Australia’s independent regulatory system.

Gardening Tips & Ideas

Native Plants That Love The Northern Rivers Climate

Low-Maintenance Locals That Thrive

By Jeff Gibbs

The Northern Rivers is blessed with a unique climate that supports an incredible range of native Australian plants. From the coastal dunes of Byron Bay and Evans Head to the fertile volcanic soils around Lismore, Alstonville and Kyogle, local gardeners have access to a wide selection of hardy natives that thrive naturally in the region.

Choosing native plants offers many advantages. They are generally more drought-tolerant, require less fertiliser, attract native wildlife and are better adapted to local weather conditions. As a result, they can create beautiful, low-maintenance gardens while supporting local biodiversity.

One of the most popular native choices is the Bottlebrush (Callistemon). These colourful shrubs

and small trees produce vibrant red, pink or cream flowers that attract honeyeaters, lorikeets and native bees throughout much of the year. They perform exceptionally well in Northern Rivers gardens and tolerate both heavy rainfall and occasional dry periods.

Another excellent option is the Grevillea family. Available in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, grevilleas provide nectar-rich flowers that are highly attractive to birds and pollinators. Varieties such as Grevillea ‘Robyn Gordon’, Grevillea ‘Superb’ and Grevillea ‘Honey Gem’ are particularly well suited to local conditions and provide colour almost year-round.

For gardeners seeking a striking feature plant, the Native Frangipani (Hymenosporum flavum) is hard to beat. This elegant tree produces masses of

fragrant yellow flowers during spring and summer while thriving in the region’s subtropical climate.

The iconic Lilly Pilly is another Northern Rivers favourite. Its dense foliage makes it ideal for screening, hedging or privacy planting. Modern varieties are resistant to psyllid damage and produce attractive new growth, colourful berries and habitat for birds.

Those wanting to create a pollinator-friendly garden should also consider planting Native Violet, Scaevola, Kangaroo Paw and various species of native daisies. These plants provide valuable food sources for bees, butterflies and beneficial insects while adding colour and texture to garden beds.

Groundcovers are equally important. Native Pigface performs exceptionally well in coastal gardens, helping stabilise sandy soils while producing stunning pink flowers. For inland gardens, Myoporum and Native Violet provide excellent coverage and weed suppression.

To attract birds, include a mixture of flowering shrubs, dense shelter plants and water sources. Species such as Banksia, Grevillea, Bottlebrush and Tea Tree provide both nectar and protection for a wide range of local birdlife.

Mulching around native plants helps conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Although many

natives require less fertiliser than exotic plants, occasional applications of low-phosphorus native fertiliser can encourage healthy growth.

By selecting plants that naturally belong in the local environment, Northern Rivers gardeners can enjoy colourful, wildlife-friendly gardens that require less work while thriving in the region’s unique climate.

Public Notice

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE AN EXISTING MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION ON EXISTING LATTICE TOWER AT KNOCKROW

1. Optus is proposing to upgrade an existing mobile phone base station on existing lattice tower at 205 Hinterland Way, KNOCKROW NSW 2479 (B0816 Ellinora).

2. In summary, the upgrade will comprise of: Installation and relocation of ancillary equipment, Installation of temporary antennas to be used during construction.

3. We invite you to provide your feedback or request further information by contacting us at: Wannan Bao, Indara, 02 9495 9000, community@indara.com or Level 1, 110 Pacific Highway, St Leonards NSW 2065. We will accept submissions until 5pm on Friday, 26 June 2026.

4. For more information, please visit www.rfnsa.com.au/2479001.

Public Notice

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE AN EXISTING MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT HOMELEIGH NSW

1. Telstra is proposing to upgrade an existing mobile phone base station on the existing 30.5m Lattice Tower at HOMELEIGH RD, LOT 10 DP 792254, HOMELEIGH NSW 2474. RFNSA: 2474001.

2. In summary, this upgrade will include:

• Removing eight (8) existing panel antennas;

• Installing six (6) new panel antennas (each 2.53m long) at a height of 30.5m;

• Installing three (3) new panel antennas (each 1.99m long) at a height of 30.5m;

• Ancillary equipment including tower mounted amplifers, remote radio units, GPS antenna, mounts, cables, etc and works within the equipment shelter.

3. We invite you to provide your feedback or request further information by contacting us at: Ben Lavery, Planning Consultant on behalf of Telstra at telstra.submissions@servicestream.com. au, 0497 833 252 or by post to:Service Stream (Wireless) - Level 3, Tower B, Zenith Centre, 821 Pacifc Highway, Chatswood NSW 2067 by 5pm Thursday 25 June 2026.

4. For more information, please visit www.rfnsa.com.au/2474001.

Service Stream Ltd A.B.N. 46 072 369 870

Telstra Ltd A.C.N. 086 174 781

Amplitel Pty Ltd A.C.N: 648 133 073

Loving Home Wanted

Clearing Sale

Case 943 Dozer, International Acco T ipper 1950C Truck Trailer & Canopy, John Deere Tractor 741 bucket & slasher Case Tractor with Loader Removable T iny Home on Trailer, Alloy tipper, Numerous Steel Bundles, RHS Steel 2 Bundles Star Pickets, Barb Wire, Stick Rake McDonald roller, Pasture harrows, Post Driver, Ford Cargo truck, Honda compressor, Wick Weed W hiper, Welding bench International Acco 1800 firetruck , Carry All & Croplands 12vlt Spray tank Kuhn power harrows, Tool boxes, Sprayer P.TO, Fertilizer spreader P.T.O x 2, Forklift , Roller, Rotary hoe, Welder, Auger, P..O Pump 160hp Compressor, Trailer Co spreader, Welder, Fiat Tractor & slasher, P.TO Mulcher, back blader, Log Grab, Tool row on Trailer, Pipe Bender, Folding Harrows, Workshop equipment , Tools, Stainless Steel Racks, Petrol Motor Cement Mixed , Trencher-blue , Drill Press, Bandsaw, Lucas Mill on Trailer, 2 x Feed bins 40L Container, 5 x8 Red Gum Assorted T yres, Ring lock wire, Multiple Sundry items.

Terms: Cash/ cheque or EFT Day of sale.

Directions: 40 km South of Casino on the Summerland Way R&B & FNC signage at property entrance follow signage for approx. 3km

� e � 9u

92 Walker Street, Casino NSW 02 6662 6662

Wayne Bulmer 0428 661 167

Licenced Stock & Station Agents

1

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

and time-efficient way to play a golf competition. The group combines golf with social inter-action, 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 10:30am 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 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 con-tact our President, Jeanette, on 0407 417 470. We would love to hear from you and warmly welcome you along.

CWA BALLINA

ALSTONVILLE

WOLLONGBAR PROBUS CLUB.

Wollongbar Probus Club meets on the third Thursday of the month at the Alstonville Plateau Bowls and Sports Club, 10-14 Deegan Drive Alstonville, at 10am. Our next meeting is on Thursday 18th June and our guest speaker will be Jane Gardner on the subject of "Wollongbar has a Past". Visitors are welcome to attend our meetings. For information phone Keith on 66280393.

ALSTONVILLE UNITING CHURCH

are holding a CAKE + other BAKED GOODS STALL ON THURSDAY 18th

JUNE FROM 8.30am - 11.30am in The Uniting / Church Hall next to the Church on the Cnr of Bugden Ave. and Main Street. Also, Some lovely JAMS & CHUTNEYS for sale. Rev Daniel and his wife Julie can also make a GOOD COFFEE if you would like to take time to relax and enjoy! Funds will go towards our Growing Young ministry You will also find the Bargain Shop OPEN at the rear of the Hall with lots of good quality used goods for SALE- there is lots to see there too! ALL WELCOME.

CRAWFORD HOUSE MUSEUM

This is the last week of the latest exhibition at Crawford House Museum, “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 finishes on 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

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

The Probus Club of Ballina Waters will hold its next monthly meeting on Wednesday 17 June at the Cherry Street Sports Club commencing at 10.00 a.m. A guest speaker will explain some of the issues involved in aged care accommodation. This club is a mixed club and both men and women are invited to join us for a range of interesting social functions. Fur-ther information is available from the Secretary Brian on 0432277170.

DEMENTIA CAFÉ

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

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 is-sues. 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 offer-ing an enjoyable

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.

BRUNSWICK HEADS

Brunswick Valley VIEW Club welcomed members of the Brunswick Heads Fire and Rescue team to the May luncheon, for a presentation on Fire Safety in the Home. We learnt that in under three minutes, toxic smoke and flames can spread through your home, putting you at serious risk. It is imperative that you have a working smoke alarm and have a fire escape plan in place, so you know what to do if the alarm sounds. Don't overload power boards and clean the lint filter in the dryer before using it. These were just a few of the tips given before the fireys had to depart in a hurry, as they had a fire to attend. VIEW Club members attended the Biggest Morning Tea fundraiser for the Cancer Council put on by the Bangalow CWA as it was on their usual friendship day of the month. It was a happy event for all and supporting a good cause. Brunswick Valley VIEW Club meets on the second Thursday of the month with lunch and a guest speaker, followed by a friendship morning on the third Thursday. Eight disadvantaged students are supported in The Smith Family's Learning for Life program. New members are most welcome. For more information: call president Rita Strong on 0424 852 679. CASINO

Dungarubba Country Music at Broadwater Hall Saturday 27th June 11.30am to 4.30pm Entry $5 including afternoon tea Lunch availa-ble Lucky door Raffles Variety of Artists Enquiries Joy 0400372948

Casino – Mummulgum

Thursday 25th June Mummulgum Hall craft group Is holding a fundraising day for our Oncology Unitsat St Vincents and Lismore Base Hospitals Morning tea 10am – Bingo 10.30 -Soup sweets luncheon 12.30pm Everyone is welcome to come along any enquires to Merrily 66647398

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 ph Jennifer 0438932060, Jane 0427 707 669.

WINDARA

Volunteers would like to invite interested folk to join them in volunteering to help raise funds for this wonderful facility. The money raised goes towards providing much needed appliances for the Windara Cafe Kitchen. The Volunteers met every 2nd Wednesday of the month at 10am at Windara Cafe for morning tea and meeting. Just come along or for inquiries phone Windara 66623800.

SCRABBLE PLAYERS

Looking for any keen Scrabble Players looking for a one-on-one game once a week Just for a fun time out Please contact Penny 0423330936 for more information

CASINO CHARITY CASH BINGO

if you would like to come along and join us each at Casino RSM Club each Thursday mornings 10.00am or Thursday evenings 7.00pm, you are most welcome! Great cash prizes! For any enquiries please don’t hesitate to contact Jan Danaher on 0414625680

CASINO LINE DANCE

Line Dance Classes Monday 4.30pm Beginners 5pm improvers St Marks Hall Ph 0418264489

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN LEARNING to KNIT, SEW or CROCHET We are looking for interested people who would like to join a class to learn Through the School Holidays both Adults and Children are welcome Starting 6th Jan 2025 Classes will be organised once we have enough interested people Call Margaret 0488 245 029 or Jacqui 0419 404 216 to express your interest and get more information

CASINO MEALS are desperately needing Volunteers, to contact the office on 6662 1217. Volunteering once a month for 1hour or so.

CASINO MEALS ON WHEELS

Volunteers needed Our delivery runs are Mon-Fri

WEEK 1

MONDAY

D.Clarke & D.Allen

R.Baker

TUESDAY

L.Try

WEDNESDAY

J. & J. Boyd

K.Bratti & K.Yates

THURSDAY

H.Moffitt & J.Hanna

FRIDAY

L. Dorrington & S.Forrester

R. & D. Lee

CASINO COMMUNITY MEN’S SHED Mon, Tues, Wed, attendance limited to 50 members, 8am - 1.30pm. Contact 66626423

CASINO & DISTRICT FAMILY HISTORY GROUP INCW

are open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am to 2pm, Wednesdays from 12pm to 4pm and every third Saturday from 9 am to 11.30 am. We are in Room 5, Upstairs in the School of Arts building in Walker Street, Casino. Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month at 10 am. For a small fee we can do research for you as well. Call 6664 1118

CASSINO GALLERY INC.

148 Barker St. Casino. Open Thursday to Saturday 10am to 3pm during exhibitions. Regular exhibitions, workshops, classes, and some markets during the year. Contacts Ralph 0418 485 770, Laszlo 6662 1943, Meg 0435 111 463. Artists, professional/amateur welcome to enquire about exhibiting their work at the Gallery.

CASINO LADIES AND FRIEND CRAFT

GROUP Meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday of each month. Bring your own morning tea. Names to be in by lunch time Monday. Phone Vivian on 66621838 or Jan on 66626424.

CASINO & DISTRICT ORCHID SOCIETY

Meet the 4th Thursday each month. At St Marks Anglican Hall @ 6:30pm

CASINO MINI RAIL

we are now open from 9.00am to 2.30pm on the 1st & 3rd Sunday of the month. We encourage people to check our Facebook page for extra opening hours. (weather permitting). West Street Casino. Phone 0455673722.

CASINO MIXED PROBUS CLUB

Our Meeting is on fourth Thursday of each month at Casino RSM Club at 10:00am.

Contact Kathleen Griffins, President phone 0427622470 or Daphne Boyd, Secretary phone 0400070085

CASINO UNITING CHURCH

CAFÉ PRAISE…. Every Wednesday @ 1011am. All Welcome 10am Morning Tea Fellowship. Welcome and Chat 10.30am Praise and Worship

CASINO VIEW CLUB

Monthly luncheon meeting at Casino RSM Club at 11am, second Thurs of every month. Contact Jan on 0418715374

CASINO AA MEETING – ID MEETING is held every Tuesday 12:001:30pm At the Casino Baptist Church, corner of West & Canterbury Streets Casino. Newcomers welcome. Contact George 0427 133 372.

CASINO AA WOMEN’S MEETINGS

Held every 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month, 12 –1.30pm at the Casino Baptist Church House, 137 Canterbury St, Casino. Contact Liz 0427133370.

LION’S CLUB CASINO

Lion’s Club meeting is held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday each month at Casino RSM Club from 6.30pm for a 7.00pm start. Denise Green 0448014682

LISMORE CASINO NAVAL ASSOCIATION

Meets bimonthly at Casino RSM, new members welcome. Ph: Chris 66293269 or Jim 0427400625.

THE PLATYPUS RSL DAY CLUB operates every Tuesday at the Community Centre from 10am to 2pm. The day consists of gentle exercises, mental stimulation, games, and entertainment. Members are asked to pay $7 for their morning tea and lunch. Transport can be provided within the town limits. If you are feeling socially isolated or just need a day out, please contact Robyn on 66623871. New members are welcome.

CORAKI

Coraki Line dance

Line Dance Classes Wednesday 5pm Beginners 6pm improver class Golf Club Ph 0418264489

CLARENCE VALLEY

Clarence Valley Probus clubs

Representatives of the Probus clubs within the Clarence Valley held the first cluster meeting for 2026 in Grafton recently. The cluster meeting held under the stewardship of Grafton Probus Ambassador, Paula Payne, bought together representatives from Grafton, Maclean and Yamba Probus clubs. Topics ranged from preparation for upcoming annual general meetings in March to how the various clubs can celebrate the 50th anniversary of Probus in Australia. It was a very full agenda,” Ambassador Paula Payne said. “Strategies to coordinate promotion of Probus 50th anniversary celebrations throughout 2026 as well as tours and guest speakers at meetings were discussed,” Paula said. Probus is celebrating 50 years of providing fun and friendship in Australia for retired and semiretired people this year. Probus is a non-fund raising, nonpolitical organisation that caters to the needs of older people in

the community. If you would like to contact your local Probus Club or enquire about the many and varied activities Probus Clubs offer members please contact Grafton Probus Ambassador, Paula Payne on (M) 0439 325 856.

ELTHAM

ELTHAM MASONIC LODGE

The Eltham Masonic Lodge welcomes all masons, to attend their monthly meetings, which are held on the fourth Tuesday, each month at the Eltham Masonic Centre. The meetings commence at 7.30 pm. If you are not a mason and are interested in joining Freemasonry, for more information please visit our website or phone 0416530456

EVANS HEAD

EVANS HEAD PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP

Our next meeting will be held at Thyme community clubhouse, 74 Currajong Street, Evans Head at 10 am. Our guest speaker this month will be Karen Kostal, a local Speech Therapist, who will discuss how to im-prove voice projection as well as how to maintain healthy muscle tone for swallowing. We Look forward to welcoming Karen. Members of the Parkinson’s community family and friends are welcome to attend Tea and coffee will be available and a small snack for a gold coin donation ph Di :0423941119”

EVANS HEAD SEAGULLS CRAFT & QUILTERS GROUP

Meet every Tuesday 9am - 12noonin the Recreation Hall (opposite the Kiosk). We invite you to join us for a relaxing morning of crafting, friendship and sharing ideas. Beginners are very welcome. Finishing UFO’s, Embroidery, Gold Work, Hexagons, & Group Projects are just some of the crafts done.

THE ROTARY CLUB OF EVANS HEAD Markets held on the Last Saturday of the month held at Cribb Reserve opposite Illawong Hotel at 8am-1pm. A vast variety of stores from clothes, candle, Honey Photographs, books, and Organic Vegetables along with Rotary Bacon & Egg Rolls

ROTARY EVANS

Head holds meeting the 1st and 3rd Monday of the month 5.30pm at Evans Head RSL downstairs in remembrance room. New members warmly welcomed. Cont. Sue 0438853921

EVANS HEAD CWA BRANCH

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 center 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 U3A

Our guest presenter for June Jabberfest at 10:00am on 15 June at New Life Church Centre will be well known local bush poet and entertainer Bill Kearns (aka the ‘Master of Bull’). We have had the pleasure of Bill’s com-pany on two precious occasions and for those members who have not previously seen him you are in for a wonderful morning being entertained with his comical verse on life topics and humorous yarns of his travels throughout the Land of Oz. Prior to Bill’s appearance, our very own Writers Group will present a selection of short stories penned by the group members. This group is one of many active courses/ interest groups active within our U3A and all are happy to accommodate additional participants. Details of the courses/groups are available on the Grafton U3A website The courses and interest groups available to members cover a wide spectrum of activities promoting learning for personal enjoyment and wellbeing. Keeping the brain active, making new friends and helping members to maximise their independence remaining healthy and active for longer. In addition to the range of activities available to members, they are also kept up to date with the Jab-ber Journal newsletter that is produced monthly (except January) providing details of the upcoming presenta-tions, course/interest group news, social events, President’s letter, items of interest etc. There is also a Facebook page for news. If you are considering membership of Grafton U3A and would like more information, please contact Bruce Carle on 0409 225 536.Members are reminded that membership fees for the 2026/7 year are now due.U3A is the University of the Third Age and a world-wide movement and commenced in France in 1973. It is the age of active retirement coming after the ages of youth, work and home making. University is rather a loose term as there are no academic requirements for membership and no exams.

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 prob-lems. 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 con-troversy 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 alco-holics. 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 Country Music

will be holding their next get together at Wiangaree Hall on Sunday 14th June commencing at 11am with a short meeting. Lunch will be delivered to hall by General Store after we've delivered the order. Everyone is most welcome. Cold and hot drinks for sale at the hall. Just a $2 Donation at door is appreciated.

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: http://www. al-anon.org.auRegular weekly meetings: MONDAY11:00am - 12.30 pm ILUKA - CWA Hall (behind the Iluka Museum), 2 Charles St. TUESDAY 12.00 1.30 pm GRAFTON - Hall 2, Salvation Army, 91-93 Oliver St. 1:00 - 2.30 pm LISMORE "The Studio", adjacent to 14 Pleasant St, Goonellabah & ZOOM ID 252 666 0000 (no password) (enter at rear of car park, cnr Pleasant & Fischer Sts) WEDNESDAY 6.30 - 8:00 pm BALLINA – Anglican Church, 24 Burnet St & ZOOM ID 252 666 0000 (no pass-word) THURSDAY 5:00 - 6:00 pm (with Alateen) TWEED HEADS Anglican Church, 13 Powell St or by phone: 4022 9113, code 5771881#FRIDAY The Bangalow meeting meets in person on the FIRST and THIRD FRIDAY of the month at 1.00 - 2.30 pm at 17 Station St, Bangalow, (Bangalow Uniting Church, parking next to the Church. SUNDAY4:00 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

President: Pul Hinchey 0480516590

Opening Hours: Tuesday & Thursday 8.30am – 2.30pm We are a community based nonprofit organisation. Everybody is welcome: men, women & people with a disability of all ages. We encourage social inclusion. Our aim is to promote the mental, physical & emotional wellbeing of people in our community. Shed Activities Members work on their own projects, Mentoring is available, General woodworking, Welding & light engineering, Repair & restoration of items for the public Constructing projects, of items for the public Constructing projects for preschools, hospitals & other organisations Assembling flatpack, Minor maintenance work for the elderly & disabled, working with the disabled, talking with other members or simply having company. Memberships: $40year Attendance Fee: $3 tea/coffee 15 Industry Drive East Lismore

LISMORE ORCHID SOCIETY INC.

City of Lismore Orchid Society Inc. Meetings are now at the Lismore Show Ground, In Norms Kitchen under the Members Grandstand. Alexandra Parade, North Lismore. NSW 2480 Meeting Date; the first Saturday of the month Meeting Time: 9:30am display plants set up, 10:00am meeting starts with a cuppa after. Contact President Mr. Steven Muldoon 0427789773 Orchid meeting involves the sharing of information, knowledge and friendship. All welcome. Lismore City Bowling and Recreation Club Community BINGO every Monday Morning 10am to 12 noon. Morning tea and Progressive Jackpot. All welcome. Ph 6621 5991

LISMORE SPINNERS & WEAVERS

Please join us Weaving, Spinning, Felting, Dyeing, Knitting, Crochet, Workshops, Chat…. Sharing Craft & Ideas. From 10am, on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Fridays of each month. (Formal business meeting is 10.30-11.30 every 1st Friday) McLeans Ridges Hall Cnr Cowlong and McLeans Ridges Rds. (off Bruxner Hwy) Morning Tea provided. Bring your lunch (and a mug) Contac: Kim: 0423935060, Linda: 0419489987

LISMORE TARGET RIFLE CLUB for .22 calibre rifles, meets Wed nights from 6.00pm (setup time) & the 1st & 3rd Sat of each month from 12.30pm (setup time). Air rifle shooting for .22 & 177 air rifles will also be available at the Saturday shoots. For more information, please phone Derek on 66282082 (ah).

CODEPENDANTS ANONYMOUS (CoDA)

Co-Dependants Anonymous is a Twelve Step Fellowship of people whose common purpose is to develop healthy relationships. The only requirement for membership is a desire for healthy relationships. The CoDA meeting in the Lismore area meets on Mondays from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Riverland’s Drug and Alcohol Centre. 75 Hunter Street, Lismore. For further information call 0456178826 or 0408336143

EAST LISMORE BOWLING CLUB

Community Bingo Tuesday night 7.30pm start. 20 games of bingo + progressive jackpot Neilson Street East Lismore. Everyone Welcome

EAST LISMORE SOCIAL TENNIS

Social Tennis is played at East Lismore Tennis Club, Cnr Neilson St & Oakley Avenue every Tuesday from 8am. We invite social players of all abilities to join us, we are a mixed group who enjoy a morning’s tennis without the commitment of competition. Ph: Fay Ross 0412910487. Everyone welcome.

MAINLY MUSIC

Fun, interactive, music sessions for young children [birth to school age] and their parents/caregivers in a relaxed setting on Tuesdays starting at 9:30am during School Terms. Children will be introduced to music, creativity and more. They will develop gross motor skills, as well as socialise with others in a loving, shared family environment. Morning tea with snacks included. Mainly Music at Lismore Anglican Parish Centre, 10 Zadoc Street, LISMORE. T: 0266213200

PROBUS CLUB OF LISMORE HEIGHTS

Our mixed group meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month at the Lismore Heights Bowling Club in High St. Our brief meeting is followed by morning tea and a guest speaker. Senior’s lunch for $15 at noon is optional. Guests and visitors are welcome. Ring/text Roslyn on 0437606674 for details of our other monthly social gatherings and outings.

ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE NETWORKING

Want to be part of an innovative, interesting, and inclusive networking group who meet fortnightly to share ideas, meet other professionals and work together to make a difference in your community? Then Rotary Club of Lismore Networking could be the answer for you! Meets on the 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month at 5.30pm at Lismore Workers' Club Function Room 1, 231 Keen Street Lismore. Ph: Rita on 0413300578 or Gae 0412742095.

ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE WEST INC

East Lismore Bowling Club each Thursday at 6pm. New members would be made most welcome. Further information available on 0428151934.

ROTARY CLUB OF SUMMERLAND SUNRISE

Interested in contributing to community? Local and international?

The Rotary Club of Summerland Sunrise meets every Friday at 7.05am for Breakfast at Red Dove Café 80 Keen st Lismore. Join us please. Ph: 0435990919

SUMMERLAND AMATEUR RADIO CLUB

Meetings of the club are normally held on the second Sunday of each month at the clubrooms: 412 Richmond Hill Road, Richmond Hill at 1pm. Visitors are welcome. The clubrooms are usually open on Sunday afternoons from about 1pm onwards. We are primarily amateur radio enthusiasts and welcome persons interested in radio, electronics, astronomy, and similar subjects.

SUMMERLAND BONSAI SOCIETY INC.

Come and learn an addictive hobby with us. We provide personal support from experienced teachers as well as demonstrations and Bonsai information.

Club days are held on the second Saturday of every month at 1pm in the Red Dove at Lismore Be inspired about the art of creating little trees. Ph: 0438103601

ZEN AND INSIGHT MEDITATION

LISMORE HEIGHTS INSIGHT (VIPASSANA) MEDITATION and practice: This mind-fulness-based meditation group sits on Wednesdays from 7:008:30pm. The evening includes meditation instructions, sitting and walking meditation, Dharma talks and discussion. For further details, please contact Rosie 0402 682 925. Beginners and experienced meditations are warmly welcomed.

ZEN MEDITATION and practice The Zen meditation group sits on Mondays from 6:30pm8:15pm. If you wish to attend

MACLEAN

MACLEAN VIEW CLUB

Monthly meetings the 3rd Thursdays of each month at 11am. Contact Ruth Toyer on 0409844212 by Mondays, no later than 7pm. Numbers are required for catering purpose

MCLEANS RIDGES

MCLEANS RIDGES CRAFT GROUP meet at the McLeans Ridges Hall, Cowlong Road, McLeans Ridges on the 2nd Saturday of each month from 9.30am to 3.30pm. Scrapbooking, card making, paper craft, knitting whatever takes your fancy. Come along for an enjoyable day. Bring your own morning tea and lunch. Coffee, tea, milk provided. A small fee to cover hall hire. Ph 0401 047 513.

MULLUMBIMBY

MULLUMBIMBY CWA branch has a fundraiser on June 17 to aid the Cancer Council. It will be in the form of a Soup Day, with delicious homemade soups

served with crusty bread. All are invited to this event, which will include raffles, a trading table and entertainment. Entry is $10. Funds raised go to research, prevention and support services for those affected by cancer. Mullumbimby CWA supports this important cause every year. Come along at 11am. Everyone is welcome to attend. The monthly meeting of Mullumbimby CWA is on June 10 at 10am in the CWA Rooms. For information: 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

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 under-stand. 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 Anon-ymous 24 hours a day. Our phone line is always answered by someone who’s been where you are – an alco-holic in recovery. We understand the challengers, and we know we’re the right people to help you. You can call AA anytime on 1300 22 22 22

WEATHER

FORECAST

Northern Rivers District:

Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog inland. High chance of showers, most likely in the afternoon and evening. Light winds. Thursday. Partly cloudy. High chance of showers. Light winds.

Northern Tablelands District:

Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog in the north. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the afternoon and evening. Winds northeast to southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h tending north to northeasterly during the morning then becoming light during the evening. Thursday. Cloudy. High chance of showers. Light winds.

New South Wales:

Scattered showers, tending isolated in the far west and along the coast. The chance of a storm in the west. Moderate falls possible on and west of the ranges, mainly in the north. Morning fogs on and east of the ranges. Daytime temperatures warmer than average. North to northeasterly winds.

Thursday. Scattered showers in the northeast and central east, tending isolated in the southeast and across central parts. The chance of a storm in the northeast. Moderate falls possible for the northeast inland. Morning fogs on and west of the ranges, mainly in the west. Daytime temperatures near average in the northeast and above average elsewhere. North to northeasterly winds along the coast ahead of a southerly change along the southern coast. Southeast to northeasterly winds inland.

Rugby League Tackles Domestic Violence Awareness In Hunter Region

By Jeff Gibbs

DV Awareness Cup Expands To Engage Young People Through Sport

Rugby league is once again being used as a powerful tool to promote respect, healthy relationships and domestic violence prevention, with the NSW Police Domestic Violence Awareness Cup expanding into the Hunter region for the first time.

The initiative, originally established by the South Coast Police District Crime Prevention Unit in 2023, has grown significantly and now includes events in the Hunter region and Sydney's St George area. The expansion reflects the success of the program in creating meaningful conversations around domestic and family violence among young people and the wider community.

Held at Lakeside Sports Complex in Raymond Terrace on June 4, the event brought together approximately 150 students aged 15 and 16 from six Hunter region schools: Callaghan College, Cardiff High School, Francis Greenway High School, Hunter River High School, Mount View High School and Rutherford Technology

High School.

The DV Awareness Cup combines a community rugby league gala day with education and support services, creating an environment where young people can learn about respect, responsibility and available support networks while participating in sport.

Students took part in a round-robin rugby league competition throughout the day, while community organisations and support agencies hosted information stalls offering resources, guidance and assistance for

those affected by domestic and family violence.

Adding to the occasion were special guests

Newcastle Knights NRLW player Yasmin Meakes and former NRL premiership winner and welfare officer Andrew Ryan, who attended to encourage students and reinforce the event's key messages.

Minister for Police and Counter-Terrorism Yasmin Catley said sport provides a unique opportunity to engage young people in important conversations.

"Sport brings people together like little else. It creates opportunities for honest discussions about respect, healthy relationships and personal responsibility," Ms Catley said.

She noted that while police continue responding to record levels of domestic violence across New South Wales, prevention remains a critical priority.

"Stopping violence before it starts requires education in schools, sporting clubs and communities. When young people see police as partners in prevention, it helps build

trust and reinforces the message that violence is never acceptable."

Northern Region Commander and Corporate Sponsor for Alcohol Related Crime, Assistant Commissioner David Waddell, said the event provided an ideal setting to connect young people with support services and positive role models.

"The DV Awareness Cup creates a safe and welcoming environment where teenagers can learn about making responsible decisions and understand the consequences of harmful behaviours,"

Assistant Commissioner Waddell said.

"Police are committed to educating young people about the risks associated with alcohol misuse, violence and family violence. Early intervention and education can play a significant role in preventing future harm."

Port Stephens-Hunter Police District Commander Superintendent Wayne Humphrey said rugby league offered an effective platform to deliver messages that resonate with young people.

"By using a sport that many students are passionate

about, we can engage them in discussions about healthy relationships, respect and standing up against domestic and family violence," Superintendent Humphrey said.

"Awareness and early intervention are vital in challenging behaviours that contribute to violence and helping build safer communities."

DrinkWise Chief Executive Officer Simon Strahan said the organisation was proud to support an initiative that combines community engagement, education and sport.

"The DV Awareness Cup demonstrates how sport can bring people together while creating opportunities to educate, connect and support young people and their families," Mr Strahan said.

As the program continues to expand across New South Wales, organisers hope the combination of sport, education and community support will help foster respectful relationships and empower young people to become advocates for positive change within their schools, sporting clubs and communities.

The sun was shining on Tuesday 2nd June and everyone was pleased to be back on the course en-joying ideal golfing conditions.

It was a closely contested competition, with three players finishing on 19 points. After a countback, Maria Donnelly claimed the win, narrowly edging out Cathy Munro, while Wendy Britton finished third. Wendy's result was particularly impressive as she had only recently returned from competing at the Walking Football World Championship, where she proudly helped her team secure a silver medal.

The Nearest the Pin prize in Division 2 was won by Chris Havill, while Division 1 proved too challenging with no successful winner recorded. Chris capped off a great day by also taking home the Longest Putt prize on the

hole.

Course conditions continued to improve on Thursday 4th June, with much drier ground making for an enjoyable round of golf.

The competition was closely fought, with Helen Stevens taking out first place on 19 points. Paula Bale also finished on 19 points and secured second place, while Kate Williams was close behind with 18 points.

One of our newer players, Bea Tarlao, celebrated a great achievement by winning the Division 2 Nearest the Pin prize. Congratulations to all the winners and to Bea on her excellent result. It was another enjoyable day of golf with improving winter conditions and plenty of friendly competition.

Francis Fires To Monthly Medal Victory At Casino Social Golf

Rob Francis produced the round of the day to capture the Casino Social Golf

Club Monthly Medal on Sunday, finishing with an impressive net score of 29. Francis held off a strong challenge from Gary Shephard, who finished runner-up with a net 32 in another competitive day on the course.

The putting honours went to G. Skennar, whose excellent touch on the greens earned him the putting trophy with just 19 putts. To cap off a successful day, Skennar also took home the players' draw prize.

Nearest-the-pin competitions were keenly contested across several holes. Rob Francis continued his outstanding form by claiming the prizes on both the 11th and 13th holes. G. Skennar added another success to his day with nearest the pin on the 14th, while R. Horseman claimed the honours on the 15th. G. Randall rounded out the winners by taking nearest the pin on the 18th hole. Players are now looking

ahead to next Sunday's competition, proudly sponsored by Gumbo Pies Casino. The event will be a Single Stableford played over the bottom 10 holes, with visitors warmly welcomed to join the field. Tee-off times will be available from 6.30am through to 7.30am, offering golfers the chance to enjoy an early morning round and some friendly competition.

With good scoring, quality putting and plenty of camaraderie on display, the Casino Social Golf Club continues to provide a popular weekly outing for local golfers and visitors alike.

Fine Weather Brings Hot Scores At Coraki Veterans Golf Course Conditions Shine As Golfers Return To Top Form

A week of fine weather transformed both the Coraki Golf Club course and the scoring, with veterans enjoying

excellent conditions for their latest monthly competition on Thursday, June 4.

After weeks of rain, the course presented in outstanding condition and players took full advantage, producing some impressive scores throughout the field.

M. Janson claimed the coveted Monthly Medal after a strong performance, while A. Ganter secured the Veterans Winner title.

B. Collyer continued his consistent form to finish second, with G. Gibson taking third place.

D. Knox earned the free game prize, while the chicken and ball winners were P. Brophy, J. Lassig, J. Braby, L. Clarke, K. Pollard, T. Crandell, M. Fairfull, G. Brown and R. Ellem.

Nearest-the-pin honours were shared between G. Brown, who took out the 3rd and 12th holes, and B. Collyer, who claimed the 6th and 15th hole prizes.

T. Doyle demonstrated a steady hand on the greens to win the putting competition. The excellent course conditions were reflected across the leaderboard, with players praising the quality of the fairways and greens following the return of sunny weather. Attention now turns to this Thursday's event, an 18-hole Two Person Ambrose competition.

Golfers are reminded that the event will commence with an 8.30am shotgun start, with all participants encouraged to arrive early and be ready for play. With the course continuing to recover strongly from recent wet weather, members are looking forward to another enjoyable day of golf and friendly competition.

Till Then, Good Golfing.

Max

By The Northern Rivers Sports News Desk

Rebels, mid-seasonGhostsreality check

By Tim Howard

The King’s Birthday long weekend provided an opportunity for Group 2 rugby league clubs to take stock of their seasons, with the competition now at its halfway mark and the race for the semi-finals beginning to take shape.

For Grafton’s two first grade teams, the picture is mixed.

South Grafton appears well placed to challenge for a finals berth, while the Grafton Ghosts face a tougher road, but they are not out of it yet..

The premiership race itself is beginning to develop a familiar look, with Woolgoolga and Sawtell emerging as the competition’s standout teams.

Both clubs remain undefeated and have established themselves as the benchmark sides of 2026. The gap between those two and the rest of the competition was highlighted before the bye when Woolgoolga overwhelmed South Grafton 56-10.

Behind the competition leaders, however, the race for the remaining semifinal positions remains wide open.

South Grafton sits in the stronger position of the two Grafton clubs.

The Rebels have shown they can compete with the teams around them on the ladder and have produced some impressive performances, including their dramatic comeback victory over Macksville earlier in the season. Their challenge has been consistency.

While they have generally taken care of the

opportunities they needed to win, the heavy loss to Woolgoolga demonstrated the difference between the competition’s elite teams and the clubs battling for positions three to five.

The Rebels have a chance to strengthen their finals credentials on Saturday when they host the Coffs Harbour Comets.

In addition to the vital clash, it is also the club’s Ladies Day and will feature fun and entertainment off the field as well as on it.

There will be cocktails on arrival and the profits will be donated to breast cancer research.

With the Ghosts having the bye, Souths will carry Grafton’s hopes alone.

The clash looms as a pivotal one for the Rebels. Victory would reinforce their position in the top half of the ladder and create valuable breathing space in what remains a congested race for the semi-finals.

For the Ghosts, the season has been one of frustration and promise in almost equal measure.

Unlike recent seasons, they have rarely been outclassed.

Coach Ryan Farrell’s side has been competitive in most of its matches and has shown enough to suggest it can match teams around it on the ladder.

Unfortunately for the Ghosts, competitiveness has not translated into competition points.

Several close losses have left them near the foot of the table despite performances that suggest they are not far behind the clubs above them.

Their most recent outing, a heartbreaking 22-20 defeat to Macksville, summed up much of their season.

A late try gave the Ghosts a chance to level the scores after the siren, only for the conversion attempt to brush the upright and sail wide.

The result left them wondering what might have been.

The bye this weekend offers an opportunity to reset before a crucial second half of the season.

The good news for the Ghosts is that the ladder remains tightly packed behind the two unbeaten leaders.

A couple of wins could quickly transform their position and place them firmly back in finals calculations.

One match that could

have a significant bearing on the fortunes of both clubs is the next local derby between South Grafton and Grafton later this month.

The Rebels will be aiming to consolidate their place in the top four, while the Ghosts could use the contest to launch a genuine charge towards the semifinals.

At the halfway point, the outlook appears clear.

Woolgoolga and Sawtell look destined to battle for the minor premiership.

South Grafton currently holds the inside running among the local clubs to play finals football.

For the Ghosts, the challenge is more daunting, but their season remains

alive.

With half the competition still to play and little separating most of the chasing pack, the next month could determine whether one, both or neither of Grafton’s clubs are still playing when the finals arrive.

REBELS, GHOSTS MID-SEASON REALITY CHECK

By Tim Howard full story page