The Northern Rivers Times News Edition 312

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$116,485 in Crown Land Grants to Boost Environmental Projects Across the Lismore Electorate

By Robert Heyward

Nine environmental projects across the Lismore Electorate will receive a combined $116,485 through the NSW Government's 2025–26 Crown Reserves Improvement Fund, providing funding for habitat restoration, weed control and river rehabilitation on public Crown land.

State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said the grants will help Crown land managers undertake practical conservation work that protects natural landscapes while enhancing public reserves for local communities.

The funding will support projects across the Northern Rivers, with a strong emphasis on controlling invasive weeds, restoring native vegetation and improving biodiversity in environmentally significant areas.

Ms Saffin said the investment demonstrates the importance of

maintaining Crown reserves, which provide valuable environmental, recreational and cultural benefits throughout the region.

"These grants will help local Crown land managers deliver practical improvements, with a strong focus on habitat restoration, weed control and protecting natural landscapes, that will

benefit local communities," Ms Saffin said.

The largest allocation of $24,648 has been awarded to Kyogle Council for habitat restoration through weed control at Fairymount (Wogun).

Other successful projects include $21,648 for the Dorrobbee Grass Reserve Land Manager to undertake weed control at

Dorrobbee Grass Reserve near Dunoon, and $19,360 for the Byrangery Grass Reserve Land Manager to carry out similar environmental works at Byrangery Grass Reserve.

Rous County Council will receive two grants, including $10,604 for bush regeneration at Albert Park Reserve and $5,940 to restore vegetation at Tunglebung Recreation Reserve.

The Border Ranges

Richmond Valley Landcare Network secured three separate grants totalling more than $24,000, with funding allocated for weed control at Collins Creek Road Bridge, Hanging Rock Falls Reserve, and river restoration works along the Richmond River.

Meanwhile, the Lynches Creek Reserve Land Manager will receive $9,680 to undertake weed management and habitat restoration within the reserve.

Ms Saffin encouraged eligible Crown land

managers to begin preparing applications for the 2026–27 Crown Reserves Improvement Fund, which is now open for future projects across New South Wales.

Applications will be assessed on a range of criteria, including community benefit, reserve usage, affordability and the ability to successfully deliver the proposed works.

The Crown Reserves Improvement Fund is a self-sustaining program financed through revenue generated from Crown land, including leases, licences and other income streams, allowing funds to be reinvested into the protection and improvement of public reserves across the state.

The latest funding round is expected to deliver lasting environmental benefits while improving the health and resilience of some of the Northern Rivers' most important public reserves and natural landscapes.

NSW Boosts Bird Flu Surveillance as State Remains Free of H5 Virus

By Jeff Gibbs

The NSW Government has significantly strengthened its surveillance and biosecurity measures to prepare for any potential detection of the highly pathogenic H5 avian influenza (bird flu), while reassuring the public that the virus has not been detected in New South Wales.

The enhanced preparedness comes as Australia continues to monitor outbreaks in other parts of the country, including recent detections in Western Australia. Authorities say the expanded response is designed to identify any cases quickly and minimise the risk to the state's poultry industry, wildlife and broader economy.

As part of the strengthened surveillance program, the NSW Government has established a dedicated H5 bird flu call centre, expanded testing capacity and trained more than 380 additional personnel, including officers from Local Land Services

and the National Parks and Wildlife Service, to undertake surveillance and respond to suspected cases.

All testing for H5 bird flu is being conducted at the Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute (EMAI) and is fully funded by the NSW Government.

A State Coordination Centre has also been established at the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development's Orange Agricultural Institute to coordinate surveillance activities and lead the state's response should the virus be detected.

To ensure frontline personnel are prepared, the Department has delivered a comprehensive series of workshops and webinars for government field staff and veterinarians. The training has focused on practical response skills, including disease reporting, sample collection, personal protective equipment (PPE) and emergency response procedures.

Wildlife surveillance has also been expanded, with the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water preparing detailed response plans for 34 high-priority wildlife locations and vulnerable species including little penguins and Australian fur seals.

An awareness campaign targeting poultry producers, wildlife organisations and the broader community is also underway, supported by social media information, industry briefings and additional staffing for the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline.

NSW Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty said protecting the state's agricultural industries and wildlife remains the Government's highest priority.

"We are doing everything possible to keep H5 out of NSW by strengthening surveillance and boosting biosecurity capability across both agricultural production

and environmental sectors," she said.

Minister Moriarty said more than 50 briefings and workshops had already been delivered to agricultural and wildlife stakeholders to ensure industry and the community are prepared should the virus arrive.

She said NSW is also using the latest scientific data to identify the wildlife species and natural areas at greatest risk, while continuing to provide technical and operational support to Western Australia following its confirmed detections.

NSW Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Jo Coombe said innovative mapping systems, decision-support tools and response databases had been developed to enable rapid, evidence-based action if H5 bird flu is detected in wildlife.

She warned that while only two infected wild birds have been confirmed in the current Australian incursion, experience overseas suggests eradication or containment

becomes extremely difficult once the virus establishes itself in wild bird populations.

Dr Coombe urged the public to follow the simple message: Avoid, Record and Report.

Residents who discover multiple sick or dead wild birds, particularly along the coastline, are urged not to touch them, but instead photograph or film the birds if it is safe to do so and immediately report the incident by calling the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.

Authorities emphasise that NSW remains free of H5 bird flu and that NSW Health continues to assess the risk to the public as low.

If the virus is detected in New South Wales, the response will focus on protecting commercial poultry flocks, safeguarding human health, reducing environmental impacts where possible and ensuring industry and the community receive timely information.

Casino no longer left in suspense as new bridge opens

By Samantha Elley

Even a gentle falling of rain could not stop the opening of the longawaited suspensions bridge at Casino.

A healthy number of people gathered at the corner of Barker and Hickey Streets to take the opportunity to walk over the engineering marvel.

“Today mark’s the completion of an important piece of infrastructure for our community,” said Director of Infrastructure Services and Project, Richmond Valley Council, Ben Zeller.

“The bridge delivers better access, safety and reliability for locals and visitors while also offering potential as a local landmark and attraction.

“The bridge provides a pathway for pedestrians and cyclists and is a connection to key recreational areas.”

Work began in October 2025 by Forge Outdoors and a key feature of the bridge is the perforated panelled work showing native flora and fauna.

Key players include Forge Outdoors, M&S Fabrications, Abseil Access New Zealand, Kyogle Earth Works, Richmond Valley Tree Services, Studio Troppo, Northern Rivers Concreting, Lachlan Trustum Electrical, Byron Bay Surveying and Regional Geotechnical

solutions.

Richmond Valley project manager, Mia De Wit and supported by Manager, Asset Delivery and Projects, Daniel Rowlands were also thanked for their contribution.

“Doesn’t it look great,” said Kevin Hogan, Federal member for Page.

“This is a great community project that will connect Queen Elizabeth Park and all the sporting events that happen

planks used to go missing,” he said.

over there to the CBD and town centre.

“The rate payers of the town…you deserve this, well done.”

Richmond Valley mayor, Robert Mustow, said it was in the 1880s that the footbridge was built as an easy way for residents to access Carrington Park, as it was known before the Queen visited in 1954.

“The only trouble is every time we get a flood or a fresh in the river, some

“I was a part of the kids who jumped across the footbridge many a time.

“When you walk out here today, you will have a beautiful view.”

Now, it is unlikely that access will be cut as the bridge stands high above any level of the Richmond River, whether it is in flood or not.

“You’ve got some great things in Casino but I think this tops it,” said Janell Saffin, NSW “It’s a real tourist attraction.

“I can see so many people coming, both domestic and even beyond to this bridge.”

Details of the bridge

• Funded with $3.5 million through the 2022 Community Assets Program, jointly funded by the Australian and State governments.

• 160 metres in length

• 2.5 metres wide

• 23.7 metres at highest point

• Scroop holes go 12 metres into the bank

• Designed above 100 year flood level.

Health pioneer Haley Hodgson recognised with Community Service Award

By Tim Howard

The woman behind one of the Clarence Valley’s most innovative healthcare projects has been recognised for her contribution to regional health, with Haley Hodgson receiving a NSW Government Community Service Award.

The award was presented by Clarence MP Richie Williamson during Saturday’s official opening and community open day for the new Maclean Health Centre, recognising Ms Hodgson’s work in improving access to healthcare across the Clarence Valley.

The recognition follows years of work by the registered nurse to develop a new model of healthcare delivery after the future of Maclean Medical became uncertain.

As previously reported in The Northern Rivers Times, Ms Hodgson led the creation of the nurseled Access Health Clinic, an initiative designed to bridge the gap between general practice and emergency departments by providing timely, affordable care for patients who might otherwise struggle to see a doctor.

That model has since expanded into the purposebuilt Maclean Health Centre, which is home to Maclean Medical and Maclean Radiology.

It also complements Ms Hodgson’s existing AveNüPlus clinic in Grafton, with the three independently owned healthcare businesses working collaboratively to improve access to care across the Clarence Valley.

Mr Williamson said Ms Hodgson’s vision had transformed healthcare delivery in the Clarence Valley.

“When the future of Maclean Medical was uncertain, Haley stepped forward to ensure the community would not lose an essential healthcare service,” he said.

“Rather than accepting

the status quo, she embraced the challenge and has transformed healthcare delivery in the Lower Clarence.”

He said the Access Health Clinic had delivered more than 10,000 consultations in less than 12 months, helping ease pressure on local general practitioners and emergency departments while providing patients with faster access to care.

“What started as Haley’s vision for a nurse-led Access Health Clinic has grown into three interconnected healthcare businesses working together with a shared

goal of making quality healthcare more accessible for the people of the Clarence Valley,” he said.

“The opening of the purpose-built Maclean Health Centre demonstrates what can be achieved through local vision, local investment and a commitment to improving healthcare outcomes.”

Accepting the award, Ms Hodgson said she was humbled by the recognition but said it reflected the efforts of a much larger team.

“I am incredibly honoured and humbled to receive this recognition,

but this award is not mine alone,” she said.

“It reflects the commitment of an extraordinary team of healthcare professionals, business partners, local tradies, suppliers, family and friends who believed in a shared vision of improving healthcare for the Clarence Valley.”

She said the opening of the Maclean Health Centre represented far more than the completion of a new building.

“It was about what that building represents,” she said.

“It represents a community that deserves

access to high-quality healthcare close to home and the power of local people coming together to invest in the future of regional healthcare.”

Ms Hodgson said her passion as a registered nurse had always been improving healthcare access for people living in rural communities.

“Every decision we’ve made has been guided by one simple question: ‘How can we make it easier for people to receive the care they need, when they need it?’”

She described seeing thousands of people attend Saturday’s community open day as an emotional moment after years of planning and overcoming challenges to bring the project to fruition.

“The Maclean Health Centre is just one step in that journey,” she said. “I hope it demonstrates what can be achieved when people are prepared to think differently, work collaboratively and invest back into their own community.”

Mr Williamson said the award recognised not only Ms Hodgson’s achievements to date, but the lasting impact her work would have on healthcare in regional NSW.

“Our community is incredibly fortunate to have someone with her passion and determination leading the way,” he said.

Lismore South Public School Rebuild Progresses Towards Late 2026 Completion

By Robert Heyward

The rebuilding of Lismore South Public School

and Ngulliboo Jarjums Preschool, devastated during the 2022 floods, has reached another major milestone, with all new modular buildings now installed and construction entering its final stages.

State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said the latest project update demonstrates significant progress on one of the region's most important education recovery projects, with completion still expected later this year, subject to weather and site conditions.

The June 2026 construction update confirms that every new building module has now been lifted into place, including classrooms, preschool facilities and the school's new multi-purpose hall.

With the major structural work complete, contractors have shifted their focus to finishing works, including pouring the concrete verandas that will provide access to the first-floor classrooms and fitting out the internal learning spaces.

Ms Saffin said installation of the buildings marks a significant step towards returning students and staff to a purpose-built, floodresilient campus.

"The concrete school verandas that provide access to the first floor are

being poured, and fitting out has started inside the upstairs school spaces," Ms Saffin said.

"Now that all the buildings have been lifted into place, landscaping and external works can be undertaken, as well as connecting the school's

internet, phones and services."

School Infrastructure

NSW expects the project to be completed in late 2026, provided weather and site conditions remain favourable.

The rebuilt campus has been designed with future flood resilience in mind and will provide modern educational facilities for students across the Lismore community.

Once completed, the new school will feature 13 contemporary classrooms, a new library, multi-purpose hall, administration facilities, landscaped outdoor areas and dedicated preschool accommodation for Ngulliboo Jarjums Preschool.

The redevelopment forms part of the broader recovery effort following the catastrophic 2022 Northern Rivers floods, which

caused extensive damage to schools, homes and public infrastructure throughout the region.

Funding for the project has been provided through the Infrastructure Betterment Fund, jointly financed by the NSW and Australian governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

The program aims to rebuild essential public infrastructure to a higher standard, improving resilience against future natural disasters while restoring critical community services.

The new facilities are expected to provide a safer, more modern learning environment while ensuring the school is better equipped to withstand future flooding events.

Record $174.6 Million Roads Program to Rebuild Lismore's Transport Network

By Jeff Gibbs

Lismore City Council

will invest a record $174.6 million in roads and bridges during the 2026-27 financial year, delivering one of the region's largest infrastructure programs aimed at restoring flood-damaged assets, improving road safety and strengthening transport links across the local government area.

The funding forms part of Council's adopted 202627 Budget and represents a significant increase in infrastructure delivery, with projects transitioning from planning into construction across urban, rural and regional road networks.

Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg said improving the city's road network had been identified as the community's highest priority, with the new budget responding through a major investment in infrastructure that supports

residents, businesses and emergency services.

"Our road network is critical to how people live, work and connect, and this budget makes it a clear priority," Cr Krieg said.

The program allocates $78.8 million for landslip remediation, $76.7 million for road upgrades and $19.1 million for bridges and associated structures, with works focused on improving resilience, safety and the long-term reliability of key transport

corridors.

Mayor Krieg said residents would begin seeing significant progress during the coming financial year as construction crews move onto sites throughout the local government area.

"The coming year marks a ramping up of delivery, with projects moving from planning into construction," he said.

"People will see real progress with crews deployed to key locations

Creek Road ($3.9 million), all of which suffered significant damage during recent natural disasters.

Three major road upgrade projects, largely funded under the Australian Government's Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program, will also commence during 2026-27.

Cattle Saleyards and future development in North Lismore.

across Lismore as our tally of completed projects increases."

Much of the program is being funded through State and Federal disaster recovery and infrastructure grants, allowing Council to rebuild flood-damaged roads without placing additional financial pressure on ratepayers.

Among the major landslip restoration projects are Terania Creek Road ($5.2 million), Koonorigan Road ($5 million) and Oakey

These include upgrades to the Dunoon Road/Tweed Street corridor, Rous Road and Tregeagle Road, while major restoration works will continue on Wyrallah Road, Orion Street and Coraki Road.

Council secured $4.86 million to upgrade the Dunoon Road and Tweed Street corridor, with construction to be staged over the next two financial years.

The project is expected to improve safety, reliability and access for residents, freight operators and emergency services while supporting important facilities including the Lismore Showground,

Additional projects include a $1.57 million upgrade to a 900-metre section of Tregeagle Road involving pavement widening, rehabilitation and road reshaping, while a $3.4 million project on Rous Road will deliver widening, pavement rehabilitation, realignment and improved driving conditions along a 1.7-kilometre section between Alphadale Road and Dalwood Road.

Construction on both projects is expected to begin early in the 2026-27 financial year.

Mayor Krieg said the investment is about restoring confidence in Lismore's transport network while improving safety, reducing future maintenance costs and building more resilient roads capable of serving the community well into the future.

Long Way Home stories find a new voice in podcast series

By Tim Howard

The stories may have been written, judged and published, but for organisers of the Clarence Valley’s Long Way Home short story competition, the journey doesn’t end there.

Selected entries from last year’s anthology, Stories from the Clarence Valley 2025 – Heart of Gold, are being brought to life in a new 12-part podcast series, giving listeners the chance to experience the awardwinning stories in a whole new way.

some local performers and identities stepping up to read them on podcasts to appear on the 2GF website.

The first episode was released on June 26 through Radio 2GF’s website, with a new story to be published every fortnight.

One of the opening lines listeners can expect to

hear comes from Year 5

St James’ Primary student Ralph Uebergang’s story: “Two weeks ago, he’d stepped off the bus in Iluka with nothing but a duffel bag and a silence too heavy for words…”

Competition organisers said the podcast transformed the written stories into immersive audio productions complete with soundscapes and performances from local actors and radio personalities.

The series has been produced by 2GF breakfast presenter Misty Fisher with the teams at 2GF and FM104.7.

Local performers

lending their voices to the stories include Mark Conaghan, Karla Hubbard, Clancy Moar, Erica Fletcher, Chris Cormack, Desan Padayachee, Maya Conaghan, Paisley Padayachee and radio presenters Cam Kleinschmidt, Tess Foley and Mandy Copeland.

The podcast launch comes as judges work through another strong field of entries in this year’s Long Way Home short story competition, which has attracted submissions from writers of all ages across the Clarence Valley.

Since its inception, the competition has

encouraged emerging and established writers to share stories inspired by the region, with the annual anthology becoming a showcase of local creativity.

Organisers said the new podcast series ensured the stories continued to reach new audiences long after the books had been published.

The audio project has been made possible through the support of the South Grafton Community Bank Branch of Bendigo Bank and the many local writers whose stories continue to capture the spirit of the Clarence Valley.

New rescue vessel to boost Marine Rescue Wooli capability

By Tim Howard

Marine Rescue Wooli is set to receive a major boost to its search and rescue capability when its new offshore rescue vessel enters service later this month.

The 10-metre Naiad, known as Wooli 30, has successfully completed sea trials off Yamba and recently underwent crew training ahead of beginning operations from Wooli.

Marine Rescue NSW fleet manager Kelvin Parkin said the vessel had exceeded expectations during testing.

“The sea trials confirmed this is an exceptionally capable and responsive vessel,” he said.

“It performed strongly across a range of conditions, demonstrating excellent manoeuvrability, stability and handling.”

Built locally at Yamba Welding and Engineering, construction of the vessel began in November last year.

Powered by twin 300-horsepower Suzuki outboard engines, it is capable of speeds of up to 40 knots.

during sea trials.

“It is extremely stable and highly responsive,” he said. “The spacious cabin, excellent visibility and well-designed seating positions all contribute to efficient and safe operations.”

Wooli 30 is expected to travel from Yamba to its home base at Wooli in early July before immediately entering operational service.

Funding for the vessel has come from the NSW Government, with Marine Rescue Wooli also contributing through community fundraising and donations.

The new vessel replaces Marine Rescue Wooli’s offshore rescue boat, which entered service in 2012 and assisted more than 350 boaters during its 14 years of operation.

Marine Rescue Wooli

Unit Commander Richard Taffs said the new vessel represented a significant

Mr Parkin said the vessel’s advanced navigation and communications systems, including a full Raymarine suite, would improve the unit’s ability to respond safely in the challenging waters off Wooli.

improvement in the unit’s rescue capability.

“It offers greater size, endurance and power, with increased range and towing capacity, as well as the latest search and rescue equipment,” he said.

“It is better than we anticipated in both design and capability and will be a great asset for assisting recreational and commercial boaters working out of Wooli and along our coast.”

Volunteer coxswain Matthew McLennan said the vessel impressed crews

Hospital funding welcomed as MP and Mayor differ on State Budget

By Tim Howard

The Clarence Valley’s two most prominent political leaders have delivered sharply contrasting assessments of the 2026-27 NSW Budget, with both welcoming continued funding for the Grafton Base Hospital redevelopment but differing over what the budget means for the region.

State Member for Clarence Richie Williamson described the budget as a disappointment for regional NSW, saying it failed to deliver meaningful cost-of-living relief or the investment needed to support communities across the Richmond and Clarence valleys.

Clarence Valley Mayor Ray Smith, while acknowledging the budget did not guarantee funding for every local project, struck a more measured tone, welcoming major health spending and new infrastructure programs while pledging to continue advocating for the region.

Both men praised the additional $20 million allocated to the Grafton Base Hospital redevelopment, taking the State Government’s commitment to the project to $283.8 million.

Mr Williamson said the hospital funding was welcome but argued there

was “little else” in the budget for the region.

“Families are battling rising grocery bills, soaring insurance premiums, increasing power costs and housing pressures, yet this Budget offers little meaningful assistance to help them get ahead,” he said.

He said regional NSW had again been treated as an afterthought, with too much emphasis placed on

metropolitan Sydney.

“We need investment in roads, housing, community infrastructure, healthcare and economic development that supports regional growth and creates opportunities for future generations,” he said.

Mr Williamson also used the budget response to promote Coalition policies, including reinstating the Regional Seniors Travel Card, a $100 vehicle

registration rebate, a 25% Regional Infrastructure Guarantee and increased investment in biosecurity.

Mayor Smith focused instead on what the budget could potentially deliver for Clarence Valley, particularly funding for health services, road recovery and regional councils.

He described the continued investment in Grafton Base Hospital as “a

very positive outcome for our community”.

“The redevelopment of Grafton Base Hospital will improve access to high-quality healthcare and reinforce Grafton’s role as a critical regional service centre,” he said.

The Mayor also welcomed almost $1 billion allocated statewide for repairing roads damaged by natural disasters and additional support programs for

regional councils.

However, he cautioned that much of the funding would be distributed through competitive grants or disaster recovery programs rather than automatic allocations.

“While the headline figures are significant, it’s important to understand that this does not automatically translate into funding for Clarence Valley Council,” he said.

Mayor Smith said the council would continue to advocate strongly to secure funding for local priorities, including roads, flood resilience and projects identified in the Community Strategic Plan.

The differing responses reflect the contrasting roles of the two leaders.

As the Opposition’s local MP, Mr Williamson criticised the Minns Government’s spending priorities and argued regional communities deserved greater investment.

Mayor Smith, whose council depends on securing state funding for major infrastructure projects, acknowledged the limitations of the budget while emphasising the need to work with the NSW Government to maximise opportunities for the Clarence Valley.

Kings Forest Homeowners Gain Faster Planning Approval Options

By Jeff Gibbs

Homeowners building in the Kings Forest estate on the Tweed Coast will soon be able to take advantage of faster and more streamlined planning approvals following a key decision by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure. The approval of Modification 11 (MOD 11) to the Kings Forest Concept Approval formally recognises the Kings Forest Development Code, opening the way for eligible residential developments to be approved through simpler

planning pathways rather than the traditional development application process.

The change means eligible home designs that comply with the standards set out in Part A of the Kings Forest Development Code can now be assessed through a Complying Development Certificate (CDC), significantly reducing approval time for many new home builders. Applications can be lodged either with Tweed Shire Council or through an accredited private certifier.

The new arrangements also benefit homeowners planning smaller projects around their properties.

Minor developments

including certain fences, decks, landscaping works and outbuildings that satisfy exempt development requirements may now proceed without requiring development consent or a Complying Development Certificate, simplifying the process for low-impact improvements.

Tweed Shire Council's Director of Planning and Regulation, Denise Galle, welcomed the decision, describing it as another important milestone in the delivery of the longplanned Kings Forest community.

She said the estate has been more than three decades in the making and will play a significant

role in delivering muchneeded housing to support the Tweed's growing population.

Ms Galle said Council welcomed the streamlined approval process, which will allow eligible developments to proceed more efficiently while maintaining the planning and design standards established specifically for Kings Forest.

She said the decision follows the registration of the estate's first residential lots and reflects ongoing collaboration between Tweed Shire Council, the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, the developer and other

stakeholders working to responsibly deliver the new community.

Despite the streamlined pathways, Council has reminded landowners that additional approvals may still be required for associated infrastructure works, including water, sewer and stormwater connections, as well as driveway construction and works within the road reserve.

Council is reviewing how these associated approvals can be better coordinated to provide applicants with a clearer and more efficient overall approval process.

Officials have also stressed that complying

development is not automatic. Proposed developments must satisfy all relevant provisions of the Kings Forest Development Code and any applicable legislative requirements. Projects that do not meet those standards may still require a traditional development application, which would be assessed under Part B of the Development Code. The planning changes are expected to accelerate the delivery of new housing within Kings Forest while maintaining the planning controls designed to guide the development of one of the Tweed Coast's largest new residential communities.

MV Beardmore makes state heritage register

By Tim Howard

More than three decades of community effort to preserve one of the Clarence Valley’s most important historic vessels has been rewarded with the formal listing of the MV Beardmore on the NSW State Heritage Register.

The listing was officially published in the NSW Government Gazette on June 19 after the Minister for Heritage accepted the recommendation of the Heritage Council of NSW. State Member for Clarence Richie Williamson said the achievement belonged to the volunteers, historians, former crew members and community advocates who had fought for decades to preserve the vessel.

“This recognition belongs to the many volunteers, historians, former crew members and community advocates who refused to let this important piece of our history be lost,” Mr

Williamson said.

“The people who fought to save the MV Beardmore, secured its preservation and continued to advocate for its heritage significance deserve enormous credit for achieving this outcome.”

Built at Harwood in 1914

by J.G. Pashley and Sons, the MV Beardmore spent decades transporting sugar cane and supporting trade along the Clarence River before being retired.

The vessel was removed from the water in 1991 and preserved through the efforts of local volunteers

led by Owen Kevin Shortt, known affectionately as “Shortie the Last Commodore”, together with the Maclean Rotary Club.

Fundraising by Maclean Rotary eventually enabled the construction of the protective shed that has

housed the vessel since 2000.

Mr Williamson also praised the Maclean Museum, which owns the vessel, and volunteer Carolyn Cameron for their ongoing work preserving and promoting the historic vessel.

“The preservation team, including former mill workers, skippers, deckhands and local volunteers, have invested countless hours in maintaining and promoting the MV Beardmore,” he said.

“Many members of that original preservation group are sadly no longer with us, but their legacy lives on through this important listing.”

He also acknowledged Sunshine Sugar for continuing to assist with maintaining the vessel in its display condition.

The State Heritage listing recognises the Beardmore’s significance not only to the Clarence Valley’s sugar

industry and river transport history, but also its role during the 1970s and 1980s when it was owned and operated by the Nungera Aboriginal Cooperative.

Mr Williamson said the vessel represented an important chapter in both the region’s industrial history and Aboriginal economic development.

“The MV Beardmore tells the story of our region’s working river, our sugar industry and an important chapter in Aboriginal economic development,” he said.

“This listing ensures future generations will continue to learn about and appreciate the vital role the MV Beardmore played in shaping the Clarence Valley.”

The listing marks the culmination of decades of campaigning by local residents determined to ensure one of the region’s last surviving sugar transport vessels would be preserved for future generations.

10 of the most affordable homes on the Northern Rivers

By Samantha Elley

Interest rates have risen and may rise further.

The opportunity to get into the property market seems to be drifting further away for many people, especially young people, who want to finally have the chance to own their own home.

The Northern Rivers Times has compiled a list of 10 places that may provide an opportunity for some to dip their toe into the real estate arena.

We have done a search for non-retirement, free standing homes within the readership area, $600,000 or under, in no particular order.

1. 18/187b Ballina Road, Alstonville $580-$640,000

Two bedroom, one bathroom home situated in the ‘Cypress Gardens’ estate. It has a private road and is pet friendly. Priced to sell as the bathroom needs work.

2. 345 Bent Street, South

Grafton $550,000

Three bedroom, one bathroom positioned high on South Hill and set on a 668m2 block. It has open plan living and outdoor covered entertainment areas.

3. 30 Lagoon Road, Coraki $495,000

There is nothing pretty about this house, except maybe the size of the block which is 7.49ha. This is one for the renovators and those who know a bargain.

4. 49 Diadem Street, Lismore $589,000

With three bedrooms and two bathrooms on a 986m2 block, this characterfilled home is definitely one to put on the list of inspections.

5. 22 Coramba Street, Glenreagh $600-649,000

Three bedrooms and one bathroom, this home is close to the centre of the village and set on 1000m2.

6. 3 Purcell Crescent, Townsend $600,000

Stop paying the landlord with this three bedroom,

one bathroom cutie. A bit of love needed but it has a great big yard.

7. 21 Alfred Street, Woodburn $379,000

Another one that needs a little attention, but once received will provide a lovely three bedroom, two bathroom home on a 746m2 block in a gorgeous village.

8. 11 Woodford Street, Brushgrove $380,000

Now this one is unique. Anyone wanting to do up a home and feel spiritually fulfilled at the same time, then this one is for you

with this 100 year old church.

9. 13 Dobie Street, Grafton $450,000

Three bedrooms and one bathroom, it is set on a 607m2 block and close to the river. It’s just waiting for your own personal stamp.

10. 25A Wheat Street, Casino $445,000 (not shown)

Two bedroom, one bathroom home that needs work, but the location and block size will be worth the effort.

The monoculture myth and a bowl of ramen

Comment By Tim Howard

When I heard Pauline Hanson describe Japan as a monoculture after her speech at the National Press Club, a few bells went off in my head.

Not because I’m an expert on Japan.

Not because I’d recently read a book on Japanese society.

The claim just didn’t sound right.

I remembered geography lessons from more than 50 years ago. I remembered learning that Japan had more than one religion. I remembered learning that its different islands had distinct characteristics.

Even half a century later, I knew enough to suspect the story was more complicated than a single word allowed.

The more I thought about it, the stranger the claim became.

Then I thought about one of my favourite films, the Japanese comedy Tampopo.

Made in 1985, Tampopo is sometimes described as a “noodle western”. That description alone should make anyone suspicious of the idea that Japan is a monoculture.

The film is Japanese. It borrows elements from American westerns. It pokes fun at Japanese business culture. It explores class, romance, food, status and social etiquette. It moves effortlessly between comedy, drama, satire and absurdism.

Could a monoculture produce a move like Juzo Itami’s comic marvel, Tampopo? The short answer is no. Rather it reveals a culture critical of itself, poking fun at institutions, grabbing influences from overseas and delighting in flouting conventions.

Most importantly, it is filled with people who are completely different from one another.

There are truck drivers, gangsters, food critics, workers, romantics, eccentrics and dreamers. They argue, compete, collaborate and pursue their own visions of a good life.

The entire film is a celebration of diversity— not necessarily racial diversity, but diversity of personality, interests,

values and experience.

In other words, it is a celebration of culture.

Watching Tampopo, one is left with a question: if this is a monoculture, what exactly would a diverse culture look like?

The problem with the monoculture argument is that it mistakes similarity for sameness.

Japan may be more culturally homogeneous than Australia. Most countries are. But that is a very different claim from

After revealing her desire to turn Australia into a monoculture during her address at the National Press Club last month, One Nation leader Pauline Hanson, went a step further down the rabbit hole, with her description of Japan as an example of something we should emulate

saying it is a monoculture. Japan has multiple religious traditions. It has indigenous minorities. It has distinct regional identities. It has a long history of absorbing influences from other cultures and transforming them into something uniquely Japanese.

The great film director Akira Kurosawa drew inspiration from Shakespeare and American westerns, then went on to inspire Hollywood in return.

Japanese cuisine incorporates influences from China, Korea, Europe and the United States. Modern Japanese culture ranges from ancient tea ceremonies to anime, manga and cuttingedge architecture.

This is not a monoculture. It is a culture that is confident enough to borrow, adapt and innovate.

The more interesting question is why politicians keep invoking Japan in this way.

The implication is that social harmony comes from cultural uniformity. If only we were more alike, the argument goes, our problems would disappear.

Yet Japan faces many of the same challenges as Australia. Housing pressures. Economic uncertainty. An ageing population. Regional decline. Questions about the future.

The existence of these problems makes a mockery of the idea that immigration and multiculturalism are the root cause of every social difficulty.

What Japan appears to demonstrate is something else entirely.

Countries work well when their institutions work well.

They work when governments function, when public servants do their jobs, when citizens trust one another and when people have confidence in the rules under which they live.

That’s a much less exciting explanation than monoculture. It doesn’t fit on a bumper sticker. But it has the advantage of being true.

Perhaps the most revealing thing about Hanson’s remark is that it falls apart after only a few minutes of thought.

A half-forgotten geography lesson. A favourite Japanese film. A little curiosity.

That’s all it takes to discover that the real world is far more interesting than political slogans.

Iron Gates Development Set to Begin at Evans Head

By Jeff Gibbs

Construction preparations for the long-awaited Iron Gates residential development at Evans Head will soon commence, with Richmond Valley Council confirming the project is moving into its next phase following approval by the NSW Land and Environment Court in July 2024.

Initial works will include temporary traffic changes to allow line-marking to be completed safely before Iron Gates Drive is closed to provide secure access for construction vehicles and workers entering the site.

Richmond Valley Council General Manager Vaughan Macdonald said Council's

role is to assess, monitor and certify the development as it progresses, ensuring all conditions of consent are met.

"Council is liaising with the developer and relevant stakeholders to ensure those impacts are appropriately managed and communicated to the

community," Mr Macdonald said.

"Our focus is on ensuring compliance with environmental protections, infrastructure requirements and all conditions of consent throughout the construction process."

The Iron Gates proposal has been one of the region's

most closely watched developments, attracting significant public debate over recent years. While supporters argue it will help address housing shortages and stimulate the local economy, opponents have raised concerns about potential environmental impacts and the site's proximity to sensitive coastal areas.

Despite those concerns, the Land and Environment Court granted development consent in 2024, allowing the subdivision to proceed under a range of planning and environmental conditions.

Council acknowledged construction would create temporary disruption for nearby residents and visitors but said such

impacts are a normal part of delivering major residential developments.

Mr Macdonald pointed to the recently completed Thyme residential development in Evans Head as an example of a project that caused shortterm inconvenience before providing much-needed housing for local residents.

He said the Iron Gates development would help increase housing supply at a time when communities across the Northern Rivers continue to experience strong demand and limited availability.

"Additional housing is critical to meeting the needs of young families, supporting the continued growth of our region and responding to the housing

crisis being faced across Australia," Mr Macdonald said.

He said the project would also bring investment to the area, support local businesses and contribute to the long-term economic sustainability of Evans Head and the broader Richmond Valley.

Council said it will continue working with the developer and other stakeholders throughout construction to minimise impacts where possible while ensuring environmental safeguards and consent conditions are fully implemented.

Residents are being asked for their patience and understanding as work begins on the major housing development.

1000 Voices Report Reveals Byron Shire Community Ready to Help Tackle Homelessness

1000 Voices Report Highlights Homelessness Crisis Across Byron Shire

By Robert Heyward

A landmark community report has revealed the depth of concern surrounding homelessness in Byron Shire, with the overwhelming majority of residents witnessing rough sleeping firsthand and more than half saying they are willing to be part of the solution.

The 1000 Voices 'What We Heard' Report, released by Byron Shire Council and the Ending Rough Sleeping Collaboration Byron Shire, draws on the perspectives of more than 700 community members and provides one of the most comprehensive snapshots yet of how homelessness is affecting the region. The findings paint a picture of a community deeply impacted by the housing crisis while demonstrating strong public support for coordinated, long-term action.

Among the report's most striking findings is that 80 per cent of respondents regularly see people sleeping rough in public spaces, highlighting the visibility of homelessness throughout the shire. However, the report suggests the issue extends well beyond what is visible, with many respondents recognising the existence of "hidden homelessness", including couch surfing, overcrowded housing and insecure accommodation.

The report also found homelessness is taking an emotional toll on the broader community. Nearly one-third of

respondents reported feelings of sadness, distress, fear and helplessness when confronted with homelessness, reflecting growing concern about the social impacts of the region's ongoing housing affordability crisis.

Despite these challenges, the survey revealed a strong willingness among residents to become involved in finding solutions. More than half of respondents—53 per cent—believe they have a role to play in addressing homelessness, demonstrating significant community support for collaborative action.

Byron Shire Mayor Sarah Ndiaye said the report reflects a community that not only recognises the seriousness of the issue but is calling for meaningful action.

The Mayor acknowledged the work of the Ending Rough Sleeping Collaboration Byron Shire in leading the 1000 Voices initiative, which brought together community members, service providers and people with lived experience of homelessness to develop a shared understanding of both the challenges and potential solutions.

She said homelessness is highly visible throughout the shire and is generating an urgent call from residents for increased housing, improved services, greater compassion and better coordinated responses, adding that many people want to contribute to positive change.

The report indicates that many residents understand homelessness as a systemic

issue rather than the result of individual choices.

Ending Rough Sleeping Collaboration Byron Shire Co-Chair Dr Elizabeth Settles said respondents consistently identified housing affordability, cost-of-living pressures, domestic and family violence, mental health challenges and broader social issues as key drivers of homelessness.

Rather than placing blame on individuals, many participants recognised that existing systems are failing vulnerable people and called for stronger policy reform, improved housing supply and better coordinated support services.

Housing emerged as the community's highest priority for ending homelessness.

Almost half of

respondents identified access to housing as the most important factor, while 30 per cent specifically called for increased affordable, social and long-term housing options across the Byron Shire.

The report also highlights how widespread personal experience with homelessness has become.

Sixty-one per cent of respondents said either they or someone they know had experienced homelessness, while one in five participants shared their own lived experience. Their stories described housing instability, social stigma and significant impacts on health and wellbeing.

Collaboration Co-Chair and Lived Experience

Homelessness Consultant

Gary Shallala-Hudson said people with lived experience have played a central role throughout the project and will continue guiding future work through local leadership and action groups.

He said locally driven solutions informed by those who have experienced homelessness firsthand offer the best opportunity to create lasting change, particularly following events such as the 2022 floods that displaced many residents.

The findings will now underpin the Collaboration's Shared Agenda for Change, which outlines four key priorities:

• Creating more safe, secure and affordable housing.

• Strengthening person-

centred, trauma-informed support services.

• Increasing community awareness while reducing stigma.

• Advocating for stronger leadership and long-term reform across all levels of government.

Additional findings revealed that 46 per cent of respondents believe insufficient government intervention remains a major barrier to reducing homelessness, while 31 per cent identified funding as the most important enabler of meaningful change. The report also found strong support for greater collaboration between government agencies, community organisations and service providers, alongside solutions shaped by people with lived experience and First Nations perspectives.

The Ending Rough Sleeping Collaboration Byron Shire brings together government agencies, community organisations, service providers, grassroots groups and people with lived experience in a shared commitment to end rough sleeping in Byron Shire by 2034.

Mayor Ndiaye said the report provides both the evidence and the direction needed to move forward.

She said the message from the community is clear: homelessness is a shared responsibility, and meaningful change is possible when communities, governments and service providers work together.

I’m proud to have fought for and secured $20 million for the fit-out of the new maternity unit at Grafton Base Hospital – ensuring this vital service for our mums and bubs is delivered as part of the redevelopment. A great win for our community.

RiverTracks Receives $20,000 State Grant to Help Young People Navigate the Justice System

By Robert Heyward

A new pilot program designed to support vulnerable young people through the justice system will be launched in the Tweed and Byron regions after Murwillumbahbased youth organisation RiverTracks secured $20,000 in State Government funding.

The one-off funding will enable RiverTracks to deliver its Youth Court Support and Diversion Initiative over the next 12 months, providing practical assistance to young people appearing before the courts while aiming to reduce reoffending and improve long-term outcomes.

Lismore MP Janelle Saffin welcomed the funding announcement,

congratulating RiverTracks on securing the grant and acknowledging NSW Police Minister Yasmin Catley for supporting the initiative.

Ms Saffin said the funding recognises the value of a growing partnership between RiverTracks and the Tweed-Byron Police Area Command, which has worked collaboratively to identify ways of better supporting young people entering the justice system.

"RiverTracks has achieved real success over the past five years by connecting vulnerable young people with positive support services, and this program will be aimed at improving youth court attendance and reducing reoffending," Ms Saffin said.

She said early intervention programs that provide practical assistance can make a significant difference by helping young people avoid becoming entrenched in the criminal justice system.

The pilot is expected to support around 40 young people who have entered the youth justice system or who are considered at risk of further offending.

Participants will receive tailored case management alongside practical support designed to remove some of the barriers that often prevent young people from engaging with the legal process.

The initiative will provide transport to and from court, court attendance support, referrals to agencies including Legal

Benvenuti a tutti to the LisAmore! Italian Festival 2026

By Samantha Elley

The beauty of a multicultural society is when community can come together and experience the nostalgia of their culture and share it with their adopted country.

This is the goal of Lismore Friendship Festival Inc President, Gianpiero Battista and his Vice President, Julie De Nardi as they promote LisAmore! Italian Festival for this coming Sunday.

“It is a festival of food, drinks, dance and crostoli,” he said.

“Everything Italian. Tug of War, Ferrari, Ducati, you name it.

“We are Australian but we want you to become Italian for the day.”

Both Gianpiero and Julie know what it’s like to integrate into the Australian culture.

“I’m Australian but I also like to promote things that I like from my culture,” said Gianpiero.

Julie agreed, saying it is good to keep the love of everything Italian.

“It’s something for Lismore to have the culture going,” she said.

“The other thing too is

we’ve got the showground and we can pull off a good event.”

The numbers have increased each year at the Lisamore! event warranting the move to the showground.

“This year, with the bigger venue, bigger carparking facilities, we also have a bus, so if you don’t want to bring your car, park it in town and there will be a bus,” said Gianpiero.

Julie said the band will be Domenico and the Latin Mafia band from Brisbane.

“He comes every year and people just love him,” she said.

With a strong family culture in the Italian way of life, there will be plenty for the children.

“We always have

Aid and Headspace, and opportunities to participate in RiverTracks' recreational, mentoring and personal development programs.

RiverTracks Manager Christopher Rowland said the program had grown out of ongoing discussions between the organisation, local police and other community stakeholders who recognised that many young people face significant challenges simply attending court.

"We regularly see young people who miss court appearances because they lack transport, don't fully understand the process, or don't have trusted adults supporting them through what can be a very challenging time," Mr Rowland said.

He said the initiative focuses on building positive relationships while providing practical

assistance at one of the most critical stages in a young person's life.

"By helping young people attend court, connect with legal and support services, and engage in positive activities, we can reduce the likelihood of further offending and create pathways toward better outcomes," he said.

Mr Rowland said RiverTracks' partnership with the Tweed-Byron Police Area Command had already demonstrated the benefits of agencies working together to support vulnerable young people.

"Our partnership with the Tweed-Byron Police Area Command has shown the value of agencies working together. This proposal strengthens that collaboration and creates an opportunity to pilot a model that could be expanded across the region

in the future," he said. Beyond court support, the initiative forms part of RiverTracks' broader commitment to improving youth wellbeing by strengthening community connections and encouraging young people to remain engaged in education, employment and positive community activities.

The pilot will also provide valuable data on the effectiveness of coordinated early intervention, with the potential for the program to be expanded across the Northern Rivers if successful.

Advocates say improving access to support services at an early stage can reduce future contact with the justice system while helping young people build stronger connections within their communities.

something for the kids,” said Gianpiero.

“Spaghetti competition for them, face painting and soccer.”

With an expectation of more than 5,000 people, the atmosphere is guaranteed to be electric and alive.

“There will be plenty of spritz to keep them warm,” said Julie.

“There will be gnocchi, spaghetti, canoli, the barbeque bar, porqueta and Italian cakes and coffee, wine and beer.”

Details of the day: WHAT: LisAmore!

Italian Festival 2026

WHEN: Sunday, 5 July 2026, 10am-3pm

WHERE: Lismore Showgrounds, Lismore

NSW

“Leemo has views on just about anything”

‘Leemo Cat’ back. Me & the Buddies are in a cosy, ‘neatly crossed paws circle’ around ‘Mum Jane’s’ armchair: we’re bored beyond belief ‘cos it’s been raining & cold for many days and nights: we can’t go up our safe tree so here we are. I HAVE,however, devised a plan to cheer everyone up: (with treats!) I’d told the buddies about Mum’s 5 week journey on a big boat and I suggested SHE tell them all about it. ‘Fluffy um spo e frst. um Jane, did you enjoy being on the ‘Titanic’ & what did you do all day for 5 WEEKS-sounds boring?’ ‘Pasqualie’ butted in with ‘I trust you had a Stateroom with Butler, ocean views from your private deck & were invited to dine at the Captain’s table?’

‘Brutus’ interrupted with ‘Who played the dance music…was it Count Basie or Louis Armstrong? Did you dance the ‘One-Step’ along to ‘Ragtime’ music?’ ‘Treasure’ put a paw up ‘Mum Jane, did you wear gowns by Lady Duff Gordon or Jacques Doucet or Mariano Fortuny?

Eeeek: Mum’s face had gone a purple shade of grey & much to my dismay she YELLED!

‘Leemo, have you again been mixing fact with fantasy, something you DO excel at.

LL fgured it best NOT to respond

‘Listen ALL OF YOU, I did NOT board the ‘Titanic’ which departed Southampton in April 1912. IF I HAD, I

would now be 114 years old (a coupla years behind Ethel Caterham, aged 116, currently the oldest living woman in the world) & not sitting here talking to you lot: I would hope that by that age I may even have learned to knit, Just pay attention. Yes, I did sail on a boat for 5 weeks. It was called the ‘Angelina Lauro’. I boarded in Sydney to get to Cape Town via Singapore. y boat was NOT heading in the direction of Greenland’s West oast in the NORT Atlantic..or Icebergs. Gottit? My boat sailed across the Southern Atlantic & Indian Oceans via the Cape of Good Hope. I did not have a Stateroom – I had the top ‘bunk’ in a cabin shared with 3 Kiwi girls. (This was not an issue ‘cos I had the top bunk in a room with my Sister Christine for years at home) The Kiwi girls formed ‘friendships’ with boy passengers on the frst day bun ed with them: (Mum had warned ME not to get too friendly or bunk with boy strangers on boats…or boys in general for that matter!) I therefore had the cabin kinda to myself 70% of the time: I couldn’t see the ocean ‘cos we were in Steerage & didn’t have a porthole. I ventured out of the cabin (after being awfully seasick for 2 days after sailing under the Sydney Harbour Bridge) & found a whole new world on my way to Africa on that boat. (768 passengers). ‘Buddies, it was truly amazing. This was my frst leaving home’ experience. I met so many lovely people, some I am still in touch with from those many years before. So Buddies, don’t believe everything Leemo tells you..check with me frst. ( as he told you the story of me throwing a teapot at an elephant who was eating my garden in Botswana? THAT one is actually true but by the time HE tells you it will once again be grossly exaggerated.) OMG fgure d best sign off. Leemo Nitey.

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

BACKING KYOGLE'S FUTURE

Kyogle Council deserves credit for taking a proactive approach to securing funding rather than waiting for governments to notice regional needs. Better roads, improved food resilience and upgraded recreational facilities are investments that will beneft the community for decades.

The council has identifed practical projects with long term benefts. Now it is up to the State and Federal governments to support regional communities that contribute so much to New South Wales.

R. Walker – Kyogle

RURAL COMMUNITIES

DESERVE BETTER

The proposal to progressively seal school bus routes and replace food prone causeways should not be viewed as a luxury. Safe roads and reliable access are essential services, particularly in rural areas where isolation during foods can have serious consequences. Regional councils cannot shoulder these costs alone. Governments must recognise that investing in rural infrastructure strengthens entire communities.

J. Henderson – Woodenbong ENOUGH IS ENOUGH

The destruction of 35 illegal e-bikes sends exactly the right message. These machines are not toys when they have been illegally modifed to travel at dangerous speeds through shared public spaces. Police deserve praise for taking decisive action before someone is seriously injured or worse.

M. Roberts – Tweed Heads

PROTECTING THE PUBLIC

For too long, pedestrians have been forced to dodge highpowered e-bikes on footpaths, parks and shared pathways. Law-abiding riders have nothing to fear, but those who deliberately ignore the rules should expect to lose their bikes.

Community safety must always come before convenience.

S. Cousins – Kingscliff

A STRONG DETERRENT onfscating and destroying illegal e-bikes may seem harsh, but it is one of the few penalties likely to change behaviour. Fines alone often fail to deter repeat offenders. If riders knowingly modify their bikes to break the law, they should accept the consequences.

P. Javis – Banora Point

POLICE ARE LISTENING

Inspector Matthew Woods made an important point when he acknowledged that community reports helped lead to these seizures.

Residents who report dangerous behaviour are helping make local streets safer for everyone. The success of this operation shows police are listening and acting.

L. Thompson –Murwillumbah

DON'T BLAME RESPONSIBLE RIDERS

This crackdown should not be seen as an attack on e-bikes themselves. Used legally, they are an excellent form of transport and recreation. The problem lies with a small minority who modify their bikes or ride recklessly. Strong enforcement protects both the public and the reputation of responsible e-bike users.

A. Richards – Casuarina

THE LAW APPLIES TO EVERYONE

Some people seem to believe road rules do not apply if a vehicle has pedals. Illegal e-bikes travelling at excessive speeds create risks no different from other motor vehicles operating unlawfully.

The police response has been frm, fair and long overdue.

D. Wilson – Coolangatta

KEEP THE CRACKDOWN GOING

With another 23 forfeiture applications still before the courts, it is clear police are serious about tackling illegal e-bikes. That commitment should continue until dangerous riding is no longer a regular complaint from residents.

Visible enforcement is often the best way to improve public behaviour.

K. Morgan – Bilambil

SAFETY COMES FIRST

Children, older residents and families should be able to use footpaths and shared paths without fear of being struck by illegally modifed e bi es. While most riders behave

responsibly, those who do not place everyone else at risk. Destroying bikes that repeatedly breach the law is an appropriate response and sends a clear message that public safety matters.

T. Edwards – Tweed Heads

A BRIGHTER FUTURE

The new lighting along Bay and Wharf streets is a simple idea that will have a big impact. Well-lit public spaces encourage people to stay longer, support local cafés and restaurants, and create a greater sense of safety after dark.

The broader revitalisation plans, including landscaping, public art and new businesses, show that Tweed Heads is investing in its future rather than standing still. Here's hoping the project continues to gather momentum and delivers the vibrant CBD the community deserves.

S. Tundle – Tweed Heads

ROADS BEFORE BUREAUCRACY

Clarence Valley Council's own long term fnancial plan admits there is an $11 million maintenance shortfall, yet councillors have voted to proceed with a workforce restructure that could eventually cost ratepayers $1.2 million every year. Residents drive on deteriorating roads, avoid potholes and watch essential infrastructure fall behind. Surely fxing the basics should come before spending millions on internal organisational changes. Councillors need to remember who pays the rates.

T. Morgan – Grafton

RATEPAYERS DESERVE BETTER PRIORITIES

Cr Peter Johnstone made a valid point when he questioned how councillors could justify spending more than half a million dollars initially, and over $1 million annually thereafter, while essential maintenance continues to be deferred.

No one disputes that staff deserve fair treatment, but councils exist to deliver services to the community frst. ntil larence alley s fnancial position improves, every discretionary dollar should be directed towards roads, bridges and community assets.

R. Raymond– Yamba

WHO SPEAKS FOR RATEPAYERS?

It is concerning that councillors appear more willing to debate internal workforce reforms than the growing burden on ratepayers. Families are dealing with rising mortgages, insurance, groceries and council rates, yet council seems prepared to add another ongoing expense to an already stretched budget. The community expects elected representatives to ask one simple question before approving new spending: can we honestly afford it? Many residents would answer that question with a clear "no".

J. Henderson – Maclean

FINANCIAL DISCIPLINE

MATTERS

The article highlights the diffcult balancing act facing Clarence Valley Council, but leadership sometimes means saying "not now" rather than "yes". Modernising salary structures may have merit, yet timing is everything. When council itself warns about long term fnancial sustainability and millions of dollars in unfunded maintenance, adding another recurring cost sends the wrong message. Ratepayers expect prudent fnancial management, not decisions that deepen future budget pressures.

P. Edwards – Iluka

A DEAL SHOULD BE A DEAL

If The Gathering Church was invited to participate in a formal expression of interest process, submitted its proposal on time and was led to believe it had been successful, then changing the rules after the process closed is simply unfair.

How can any community organisation have confdence in dealing with council if a late proposal can suddenly reopen the process? Integrity matters. If councils expect people to follow deadlines, councils should do the same.

P. Raywell – Yamba

WHO IS THE MYSTERY APPLICANT?

The most troubling part of this story is not whether a church receives the lease, but the late emergence of another interested party. Ratepayers deserve to know why a proposal lodged after the advertised process appears to have been given equal consideration.

Transparency should be the cornerstone of local government. If there are legitimate reasons for changing course, explain them publicly. Otherwise, people are left wondering whether everyone is truly being treated equally.

R. Jenkins – Maclean

STOP MOVING THE GOALPOSTS

Clarence Valley Council cannot expect organisations to invest time, effort and money preparing submissions if the process can simply be altered at the last minute. Whether the applicant is a church, sporting club or community group is beside the point.

Once expressions of interest close, the playing feld should remain level. Constantly moving the goalposts damages confdence in council decision-making and discourages future community participation.

T. Edwards – Iluka

COMMUNITY ASSETS ARE NOT CASH COWS

One councillor argued the hall should achieve the best commercial return, but community halls were never created simply to maximise income. They exist to serve the community.

f a not for proft organisation plans to provide youth activities, community meals, support groups and meeting

space, that social value should carry signifcant weight. Councils need to remember that not every decision should be driven by dollars alone.

L. Thompson – Yamba

CONFUSION IS BECOMING A HABIT

This is becoming an all-toofamiliar pattern at Clarence Valley Council. Decisions are deferred, procedures become bogged down in arguments and points of order, and ratepayers are left wondering why straightforward matters become political battles. Leadership requires clear processes, consistent decisions and the confdence to honour commitments. Until council improves its governance, public trust will continue to erode.

D. Harrison – Grafton

REMOVE THE WASTE LEVY

Kyogle Council is right to continue pushing for the removal of the waste levy. Rural councils should not be penalised by a system that was designed to address metropolitan landfll issues. It makes little sense to apply the same rules to communities with vastly different circumstances.

If governments are serious about supporting regional Australia, they should start by removing unfair costs that place unnecessary pressure on councils and, ultimately, on local ratepayers.

E. Lawson – Wiangaree

A DEAL SHOULD BE A DEAL

If The Gathering Church was invited to participate in a formal expression of interest process, submitted its proposal on time and was led to believe it had been successful, then changing the rules after the process closed is simply unfair. How can any community organisation have confdence in dealing with council if a late proposal can suddenly reopen the process? Integrity matters. If councils expect people to follow deadlines, councils should do the same.

G. Matthews – Gulmarrad

COMMUNITY

ASSETS ARE NOT CASH COWS

One councillor argued the hall should achieve the best commercial return, but community halls were never created simply to maximise income. They exist to serve the community. If a not-for-proft organisation plans to provide youth activities, community meals, support groups and meeting space, that social value should carry signifcant weight. Councils need to remember that not every decision should be driven by dollars alone.

C. Walters – Woombah

HONOUR YOUR WORD

If councils expect community groups to honour contracts and deadlines, they must do the same. Changing the process after expressions of interest have closed creates uncertainty and undermines confdence in local government. A commitment should mean something.

A. Preston – Yamba

THE LEGEND CONTINUES

Leemo's latest debate about whether he qualifes as a "legend" had me laughing from beginning to end. Like many of us, he seems to have an infated opinion of his own achievements, while poor Mum Jane patiently attempts to bring him back to earth. The highlight for me was Leemo's list of accomplishments, from founding the Buddies Club to waking Mum at 3am for treats. In Leemo's world, these are clearly the deeds of a legend! Thank you once again for providing readers with a weekly dose of humour and heart.

B. Morgan – Alstonville

A LIFE OF PURPOSE

Tim Howard's refection on the lives of Professor Richard Scolyer and Neale Daniher reminds us that greatness is not measured by wealth or fame, but by the difference we make to others. Both

men faced unimaginable adversity, yet continued to serve humanity with courage, humility and determination. In an age where social media often celebrates celebrity over substance, this thoughtful column was a timely reminder that a meaningful life is built through service, compassion and perseverance. It left me refecting not on how long we live, but on how well we use the time we are given.

F. McKenzie – Lismore

FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

It was refreshing to read a review that recognised exactly what a family flm is meant to do—entertain. Not every movie needs a complicated storyline or a hidden message. Sometimes a good laugh and colourful characters are enough.

Minions & Monsters sounds like the perfect school holiday outing for children and parents alike. The entertainment pages continue to provide readers with practical, honest reviews that make choosing a movie much easier.

N. Bradley – Ballina

COMFORT FOOD DONE RIGHT

The Creamy Chicken Potato Bake is exactly the sort of recipe that brings families together on a cold winter's evening. Simple ingredients, easy preparation and plenty of favour make it the perfect comfort meal for busy households.

The recipe pages continue to strike the right balance between meals that are achievable for everyday cooks while still looking restaurantworthy.

C. Donnelly – Goonellabah

A FEAST FOR THE EYES

The recipes are always enjoyable, but the page design deserves special praise. The beautiful photography, elegant layout and easy-to-follow format make the cooking pages among the most attractive in the newspaper.

The French-inspired presentation of both the Creamy Chicken Potato Bake

and the Cheat's Mille-Feuille gives readers the feeling they are browsing a quality food magazine rather than a weekly newspaper. Congratulations to everyone involved in producing such a polished feature.

V. Marshall – Lennox Head

INVEST WHERE IT COUNTS

Kyogle Council deserves praise for taking a strategic approach to securing funding instead of simply reacting to problems as they arise. Prioritising sealed school bus routes, food resilience and tourism infrastructure demonstrates a long-term vision that will beneft both current and future generations. The challenge now is for State and Federal governments to recognise that investing in regional communities is not charity—it is an investment in Australia's future.

H. McMahon – Kyogle

KEEP PUSHING CANBERRA

Regional councils are too often expected to deliver metropolitan-level services with a fraction of the funding. Kyogle's advocacy campaign highlights projects that are essential, not extravagant, from safer roads to improved disaster resilience. Council has done its homework. It now deserves strong backing from both Sydney and Canberra to turn these plans into reality.

J. O'Connor – Bonalbo

A PLAN WITH PURPOSE

It is encouraging to see Kyogle Council listening to residents and developing funding proposals based on what the community has consistently identifed as priorities. Better transport links, upgraded recreation facilities and improved food infrastructure will strengthen the region for decades. Too often regional areas are overlooked. Kyogle is making a compelling case that rural communities deserve the same opportunities and infrastructure as the cities.

C. Barrett – Woodenbong

For Aurelius all…

by Nigel Dawe

LEGEND has it that Diogenes, the 4th Century BC philosopher wandered through the streets of Athens in broad daylight holding a lit lamp. When asked why, he’d simply respond by saying that he was looking for an honest person, and that he was yet to find one. If he were in Rome some 500-years later he’d have come across Marcus Aurelius, the last and most admirable of the Roman Empire’s ‘Five Good Emperors’. You could argue that ‘being good’ is not all that difficult when you don’t hold public office, but being good when you do, is a quality that few, if any, besides Aurelius have ever managed to do in such a way that this very quality, became their defining legacy. While Aurelius lived for 58-years and ruled the Roman empire for the last 13-years of them, it is what he managed to do each step of the way that is still admired to this day.

Having earned the nickname “Verissimus” as a boy (which means ‘the truest one’), a moniker that was bestowed upon him by the emperor Hadrian, who was also considered to be one of the empire’s five good emperors. Clearly, Aurelius had something that stood out in such a way you just couldn’t help but notice, or appreciate. Honesty shines because it can’t be feigned or fabricated to appear to be anything other than what it is –and doubly so, when it emerges from within the treacherous surrounds of its opposite.

Not that the life of Aurelius was ever a charmed saunter through

the fields of privilege, quite the contrary, seeing he never developed a liking whatsoever for either fame, money or luxury. Tragically, he would lose eight of his children (five sons and three daughters) over the course of his life, much of which was actively spent leading his army in wars along the borders of the Roman empire. It was during one such campaign he famously visited the philosophers of Alexandria, dressed as an ordinary citizen. It was also during this time that Aurelius was penning his Meditations, which were philosophical notes to himself that were never intended to be published. Notes that actually were lost for centuries, until they were rediscovered by a Greek orthodox bishop in 900 AD. Incredibly, the Meditations of Aurelius were written by a head of state, during the most trying 10-years of his tenure; and there is frankly nothing quite like them in all the history of leadership, let alone philosophy. And we could even argue that this non-assuming Roman emperor was the only philosopher king (which was a fabled idea of Plato’s) that the world has ever known.

If only every ‘leader’ that assumed office were dyed, guided and inspired by the same held principles as Aurelius. Or as he once so matterof-factly said, “While you live, while it is in your power, be good. Never esteem anything as of advantage to you that will make you break your word or lose your self-respect…If it is not right do not do it; if it is not true then do not say it.”

How far would you go for a friend?

Title: In Her Defence

Author: Philippa Malicka

Price: $27.75

Distributor: Booktopia

Parental estrangement is a harsh topic to deal with.

Why does a young adult cut contact with their parents?

Sometimes there are valid reasons, other times, parents are left in the dark.

This seems to be the case for celebrity Anna Finbow when her daughter Mary cuts ties with the family.

Anna ends up in court with Mary’s psychologist, Jean Guest, for slandering her, accusing her of brainwashing her daughter.

Did Mary have a so horrible a childhood that she has to push her parents out of her life?

There is one witness

DA-Approved Highway Service Centre Site Hits the Market to Fill Major Pacific Motorway Service Gap

Maclean Development Opportunity Targets Freight, Tourism and EV Growth

By Jeff Gibbs

that may actually get to the truth but will she create more havoc than heal the situation?

If you love a bit of a psychological drama playing out in a courtroom against a background of sexual assault and obsessive friendship then this may be the next book on your ‘To Be Read’ pile.

Philippa Malicka is an up and coming new talent who grew up in Essex but now lives in London.

As a journalist her work has appeared in the Sunday Telegraph and Sunday Times and she is a graduate of the Fiction MA at the University of East Anglia.

In Her Defence is her first novel which has been longlisted for the Bridport First Novel Award.

You can buy your copy of In Her Defence via booktopia.com.au

A rare development opportunity has emerged on one of Australia's busiest transport corridors, with a developmentapproved highway service centre site at Maclean officially offered to the market.

The 3.01-hectare property at 2 Schwonberg Street, Townsend, has been listed through Colliers and is expected to attract interest from developers, owner-occupiers and infrastructure investors seeking a strategic position along the M1 Pacific Motorway between Sydney and Brisbane.

Located at the purposebuilt Southern Maclean Interchange, constructed as part of the $5 billion Woolgoolga to Ballina Pacific Highway upgrade, the site has been specifically planned to accommodate a modern highway service centre and address what industry experts describe as one of the largest remaining service gaps on the Pacific Motorway.

Once the Coffs Harbour Bypass opens in the second half of 2026, motorists travelling between Ballina and Nambucca Heads will have no comparable full-service highway stop, creating a significant opportunity for a major

refuelling and convenience destination.

The approved plans include a comprehensive roadside service facility featuring fuel for passenger vehicles and heavy transport, three quick-service restaurants, including two with drivethrough facilities, electric vehicle charging stations, extensive parking for trucks, buses, caravans and passenger vehicles, along with dedicated heavy vehicle amenities designed for long-haul freight operators.

Colliers NSW Retail Middle Markets Manager Ben Wilkinson said the Pacific Motorway remains one of Australia's most heavily used freight and tourism routes, yet substantial sections continue to lack modern highway services.

"The Pacific Motorway is one of Australia's busiest freight and tourism corridors, yet significant sections remain undersupplied by modern highway service infrastructure," Mr Wilkinson said.

He said the Maclean site was uniquely positioned because the interchange itself had been specifically designed during construction of the Woolgoolga to Ballina highway upgrade to support future highway

service infrastructure.

Mr Wilkinson said the nearest comparable highway service centres are located approximately 87 kilometres north at Ballina and 158 kilometres south at Nambucca Heads.

"The proposed Maclean Highway Service Centre will address a significant gap in the network and establish itself as a strategically positioned refuelling and convenience destination for both freight operators and travelling motorists," he said.

The development is already supported by both development approval and a Local Environmental Plan amendment permitting a highway service centre as an additional use, significantly reducing planning uncertainty for prospective purchasers.

The location currently captures more than 17,500 vehicles each day travelling along the Pacific Motorway, including a substantial proportion of heavy vehicles servicing Australia's east coast freight network.

Colliers Head of Premium Investments, Investment Services, Jordan McConnell, said the project had been designed around the evolving needs of modern transport operators.

"This project has been designed specifically for modern freight movements and futurefocused roadside retail, creating an opportunity that is difficult to replicate from both a planning and infrastructure perspective," Mr McConnell said.

The proposal includes dedicated facilities capable of accommodating B-Double and A-Double heavy vehicles, reflecting increasing freight volumes moving along Australia's eastern seaboard, while also catering for growing tourism traffic visiting the Clarence Valley, Yamba and the wider Northern Rivers.

The surrounding tourism economy generates more than $482 million in annual visitor expenditure, providing additional customer demand beyond freight transport alone.

Industry analysts believe opportunities to secure large, developmentapproved highway service centre sites on the Pacific Motorway have become increasingly scarce, with only a limited number of interchanges capable of supporting this type of large-scale roadside infrastructure.

The property is being offered for sale via Expressions of Interest, closing on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at 2pm.

Budget delivers savings, safety and support for local communities –by Janelle Saffin MP

In the Minns Labor Government’s fourth budget, the Treasurer has reduced inherited debt and deficit, saving $400 million a year in interest, while continuing higher wages for teachers, nurses, paramedics and police to attract and retain frontline workers.

Ahead of the budget, many local measures had already been announced, including $7 million for the cattle tick program, $5 million for river health projects and major road repair and infrastructure funding.

I want to highlight two items of particular interest to locals.

Household savings

The Home Energy Saver program will help households manage the upfront cost of solar batteries and other energy-saving upgrades.

Eligible homeowners or landlords can apply for interest-free loans of up to $15,000 for:

• solar PV and battery storage

• heat pump or solar water heaters

• reverse-cycle air conditioning, insulation, draught-proofing and double glazing

• induction cooktops, EV chargers, ceiling fans and switchboard upgrades.

For homeowners and renters earning under $80,000, or eligible concession holders, there are discounts of up to $4,000 on energy-saving items.

Before heading to Parliament for budget week, Janelle Saffin viewed ‘Stay Cosy’, the CWA tea cosy exhibition at the Lismore Regional Gallery.

Magical Family Concert to Bring Music and Imagination to Mullumbimby These School Holidays

By Robert Heyward

Families across the Northern Rivers are being invited to experience an enchanting morning of music, storytelling and interactive entertainment these winter school holidays when Once Upon a Song takes to the stage at the Drill Hall Theatre in Mullumbimby.

performer Madeleine Eliza, whose recent performance as Hero in the acclaimed, soldout production of A Midsummer Night's Queen earned praise from local audiences.

moments that parents and carers can also enjoy, making it an experience designed to be shared across generations.

Adding to the excitement, the performance concludes with a special photo opportunity, allowing children and their families to meet the performer and capture a lasting memory of the magical event.

Landmark funding for domestic and family violence services

I have a long association with refuges and domestic and family violence services. This historically underfunded sector has too often had to turn away vulnerable women and children seeking safety.

The budget includes a landmark $184.1 million investment in frontline domestic and family violence services that will enable them to help

The Government has also reduced car registration by $100, and motorbike registration by $80, which will appear on renewal notices.

thousands more women and children.

The boost spans six key programs, including Safer Pathways, Staying Home Leaving Violence, after-hours crisis support, specialist help for children and young people, and the Men’s Behaviour Change program.

This funding sits alongside the Minns Government’s stronger domestic and family violence laws, including tougher bail tests, electronic monitoring for serious offenders on bail, action on coercive control and strengthened stalking laws targeting tracking devices and surveillance.

Designed for children aged three to 10 years and their families, the 60-minute live concert promises a magical journey through some of the world's mostloved movie and musical soundtracks, blending live performance with storytelling and audience participation.

Audiences will enjoy songs inspired by popular productions including Frozen, Moana, Tangled, Wicked and K-pop Demon Hunters, with each musical number woven into a heartwarming story celebrating courage, friendship, imagination, adventure and the importance of believing in yourself.

The production has been created and will be performed by Northern Rivers soprano and

As both a performer and a mother, Eliza said she wanted to create a memorable live theatre experience that would entertain children while also encouraging confidence and creativity.

"The heroines in these stories are brave, curious, adventurous and kind," she said.

"I hope every child leaves feeling a little braver, a little more inspired, and reminded that they already have their own light to shine."

Rather than simply presenting a concert, Once Upon a Song encourages young audience members to become part of the performance through interactive moments designed to spark imagination and keep children engaged from beginning to end.

The family-friendly production has been carefully tailored for younger audiences while offering

With school holiday activities often booking quickly across the region, organisers are encouraging families to secure tickets early.

Event Details Once Upon a Song

Date: Sunday, 19 July 2026

Doors Open: 10.30am

Performance Begins: 11.00am

Venue: Drill Hall Theatre, Mullumbimby

Tickets are available through Humanitix.

Olympic Countdown Fuels Rush for New Apartments Across Brisbane and South-East Queensland

By Jeff Gibbs

With the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games drawing closer, property buyers are increasingly targeting brand-new apartments across Brisbane, the Gold Coast and surrounding growth corridors, seeking to secure a foothold before major infrastructure projects and population growth place further pressure on housing supply.

Industry experts say the combination of strong interstate migration, limited housing availability, major transport upgrades and Olympic-related investment is driving renewed demand for new apartment developments throughout South-East Queensland.

While much of the recent attention has focused on coastal locations such as South Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast, Brisbane's inner-city apartment market is also experiencing significant growth as buyers position themselves ahead of the Games.

Brisbane CBD Emerging as Olympic Investment

Hub

Brisbane's CBD is expected to be one of the biggest beneficiaries of Olympic-related investment, with billions of dollars being directed into transport infrastructure, urban renewal projects and major sporting venues over the next six years.

Developers are responding with a growing pipeline of high-rise residential projects, particularly around the CBD, South Brisbane, Woolloongabba, Kangaroo Point, Newstead and the Brisbane River precincts. Many of these

locations will be directly connected to Olympic venues or major transport improvements.

Property analysts note that Brisbane is undergoing a transformation from a traditionally low-rise city into a higher-density urban centre, with numerous towers planned or under construction as population growth continues to outpace housing supply.

Key Brisbane Suburbs Attracting Buyers

Woolloongabba

Set to become one of the centrepieces of the Olympic Games, Woolloongabba is attracting significant investor and owneroccupier interest due to planned venue developments, transport upgrades and urban renewal projects.

South Brisbane Already one of Brisbane's most popular apartment markets, South Brisbane continues to attract buyers seeking proximity to the CBD, cultural precincts, entertainment venues and future Olympic infrastructure.

Kangaroo Point

The suburb has become a premium apartment

destination, particularly for downsizers and highnet-worth buyers. Demand for luxury riverfront apartments has surged as Brisbane's prestige market strengthens.

Newstead and Fortitude

Valley

These inner-city suburbs continue to benefit from strong rental demand, lifestyle appeal and access to employment hubs, making them attractive to both investors and owneroccupiers.

Yeerongpilly

Located close to planned Olympic venues, Yeerongpilly is emerging as a growth area with several major residential developments underway and strong long-term potential.

Toowong

Toowong's proximity to the CBD, riverfront lifestyle and excellent transport links are helping drive demand for higherdensity living as Brisbane expands westward.

Hamilton and Northshore

Hamilton and the Northshore precinct are expected to experience substantial growth as waterfront redevelopment projects

apartment supply challenge.

Construction costs, labour shortages and project viability concerns have limited the number of new developments reaching completion, creating a shortage of available housing in many inner-city locations.

The supply shortage is expected to intensify as Olympic infrastructure projects compete for skilled workers and building materials, potentially placing further upward pressure on apartment prices over the coming years.

continue and Olympicrelated infrastructure transforms the area into one of Brisbane's premier residential destinations.

Albion and Bowen Hills

These inner-city suburbs are attracting increasing attention from buyers seeking relatively affordable entry points close to the CBD, major transport links and employment centres.

Supply Shortages Driving Competition

Despite strong demand, Brisbane faces a growing

Property experts believe Brisbane's growth story extends well beyond the Olympic Games, with population growth, interstate migration, employment opportunities and infrastructure investment likely to continue supporting demand long after 2032.

Gold Coast and SouthEast Queensland Also Benefiting The benefits are not confined to Brisbane.

The Gold Coast continues to attract strong buyer demand due to its

lifestyle appeal, improving transport infrastructure and growing links to Brisbane ahead of the Games. South Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, Burleigh Heads, Mermaid Beach and Palm Beach are increasingly being viewed as long-term growth locations.

Other South-East Queensland centres, including Ipswich, Logan, Moreton Bay and the Sunshine Coast, are also experiencing strong population growth and increased demand for new housing.

Strong migration from Sydney and Melbourne remains a key driver of demand across the region, with many buyers seeking greater affordability, lifestyle benefits and future capital growth opportunities.

As the Olympic countdown continues, many buyers appear unwilling to wait until major infrastructure projects are complete, choosing instead to secure property now in anticipation of what could be one of the most transformative decades in Brisbane's history.

JACKASS: THE BEST AND LAST REVIEW

The Jackass Crew Delivers Big Laughs, Bigger Stunts

By Jeff Gibbs

For more than 20 years, the Jackass franchise has entertained audiences with outrageous stunts, painful practical jokes and a level of fearless stupidity that somehow became an international phenomenon.

Jackass: The Best and Last serves as a celebration of everything fans have come to expect, while also acting as a fitting farewell to the original crew that transformed homemade chaos into box-office success.

Leading the mayhem once again is Johnny Knoxville, whose willingness to put himself in harm's way remains unmatched. Returning alongside him are longtime favourites Steve-O, Chris Pontius, Dave England, Danger Ehren McGhehey, Preston Lacy and Jason "Wee Man" Acuña. Their

chemistry remains as strong as ever, with each performer embracing the ridiculous situations that have defined the franchise since its beginnings. Newer cast members also make welcome appearances, adding fresh personalities while respecting the spirit of the originals.

Unlike a traditional film, Jackass: The Best and Last has no central storyline. Instead, it delivers a fastpaced collection of elaborate stunts, hidden-camera pranks and painfully funny challenges that constantly attempt to outdo one another. Whether involving dangerous animals, outrageous public encounters or spectacular crashes, every segment is designed to shock audiences before leaving them laughing at the consequences.

One of the film's greatest strengths is its authenticity.

Although the stunts are carefully planned and filmed

with professional crews and medical personnel on standby, the reactions between the cast remain completely genuine. Their lifelong friendships shine through every prank, making it clear they enjoy making each other laugh just as much as entertaining the audience.

Visually, the production is the most polished the series has ever been. Highdefinition cameras, creative slow-motion sequences and impressive editing allow viewers to experience every spectacular success and painful failure in remarkable detail while maintaining the spontaneous style that has always defined Jackass.

Perhaps the most surprising aspect of the film is its willingness to acknowledge the passing of time. The original cast openly joke about their ageing bodies and the reality that recovering from broken bones and bruises takes much longer

than it once did. These moments add unexpected warmth and nostalgia, reminding viewers just how long these performers have shared their unique brand of entertainment.

This isn't a movie for everyone. The crude humour, graphic impacts and grossout comedy will undoubtedly divide audiences. However, fans of the franchise will find exactly what they came to see—bigger laughs, bigger stunts and one final opportunity to spend time with a group that helped redefine outrageous comedy.

Jackass: The Best and Last delivers an entertaining farewell filled with fearless performances, genuine friendship and plenty of unforgettable moments. It may be the end of an era, but the legacy of the Jackass crew is likely to keep audiences laughing—and wincing—for years to come.

and Plenty of Bruises

SPECIAL SCREENINGS

A CLOCKWORK ORANGE (R18+ Mon: 6:30PM – Cult Vault

OPERA DI ROMA: LOHENGRIN (CTC) Sun: 1:00PM. Wed: 11:00AM

THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA DOUBLE FEATURE (M) Sun: 2:00PM

THE INVITE (MA15+) Fri: 6:30PM – Movie Club Preview

FAMILY FILMS

CATS IN THE MUSEUM 2: TREASURES OF EGYPT PG NFT Daily: 11:00AM, 1:00PM

MINIONS & MONSTERS (PG) Daily: 10:40AM, 12:40PM, 2:40PM, 4:10PM, 6:10PM

MOANA PG STARTS WEDNESDAY Wed: 11:15AM, 1:10PM, 3:00PM, 6:10PM, 7:15PM

TOY STORY 5 (G Thurs, Sun, Mon, Tues: 10:30AM, 12:45PM, 2:00PM, 3:00PM, 5:15PM, 6:15PM, 7:15PM. Fri: 10:30AM,

12:45PM, 2:00PM, 3:00PM, 5:15PM, 7:15PM. Sat: 10:30AM, 12:45PM, 2:00PM, 3:00PM, 5:15PM, 6:15PM, 7:45PM. Wed: 10:30AM, 12:45PM, 2:00PM, 3:00PM, 5:15PM, 6:15PM

ALL FILMS

BACKROOMS (M Daily: 8:20PM

DISCLOSURE DAY (M) Daily except Wed: 11:00AM, 2:50PM, 4:40PM, 7:30PM. Wed: 2:50PM, 4:40PM, 7:30PM

GLENROTHAN (M) Daily except Sun, Wed: 11:10AM, 12:45PM. Sun: 10:50AM, 12:45PM. Wed: 12:45PM

JACKASS: BEST AND LAST (CTC) NFT Thurs, Fri, Mon, Tues: 12:50PM, 3:00PM, 5:00PM, 7:00PM, 8:10PM. Sat, Sun: 3:00PM, 5:00PM, 7:00PM, 8:10PM. Wed: 12:50PM, 5:30PM, 7:30PM, 8:10PM

LEVITICUS MA15+ Daily except Fri, Mon: 8:30PM

MICHAEL (PG Daily: 10:30AM, 3:30PM, 5:45PM OBSESSION (MA15+) Daily except Sat, Sun: 5:00PM, 8:30PM. Sat: 5:30PM, 8:30PM. Sun: 8:30PM

SUPERGIRL (M) Daily except Wed: 1:10PM, 7:30PM. Wed: 7:30PM THE CHRISTOPHERS (MA15+ Daily except Sat, Sun: 2:50PM. Sat: 3:20PM

THE DEATH OF ROBIN HOOD (MA15+) Daily except Sun, Wed: 1:15PM THE MUSICIANS (PG) Daily: 10:40AM THE SHEEP DETECTIVES (PG Daily: 10:30AM TUNER (MA15+) Thurs, Fri, Sat, Tues: 3:45PM, 6:10PM. Sun: 6:10PM. Mon, Wed: 3:45PM

DISCLOSURE DAY (M Daily except Wed: 4:30PM, 7:00PM. Wed: 4:30PM

JACKASS: BEST AND LAST (CTC) NFT Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun: 2:40PM, 7:30PM. Mon, Tues: 12:15PM, 2:40PM, 7:30PM. Wed: 7:30PM

MINIONS & MONSTERS PG Daily except Wed: 10:00AM, 12:30PM, 2:30PM. Wed: 10:00AM, 12:40PM, 2:30PM MOANA (PG) STARTS WEDNESDAY Wed: 10:15AM, 12:00PM, 2:40PM, 7:00PM

OBSESSION (MA15+ Daily: 7:15PM

SUPERGIRL (M) Daily except Fri, Wed: 10:10AM, 4:30PM. Fri, Wed: 4:30PM TOY STORY 5 (G

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

followed by addition and/or subtraction, in whichever order they appear.

TIME FOR TRIVIA

1 What type of sauce is used in traditional Italian lasagne? (a) Bordelaise (b) Béchamel (c) Allemande (d) Chasseur

2 Professional AFL footballer Tayla Harris has been a title-holder in what sport? (a) Boxing (b) Golf (c) Tennis (d) Rugby League

3 Who was the first Australian to score three centuries in T20I matches? (a) Aaron Finch (b) Glenn Maxwell (c) David Warner (d) Shane Watson

4 Which German state is the largest in area? (a) Bavaria (b) Hesse (c) Bremen (d) Hamburg

5 At the beginning of a game of Ticket to Ride, how many “train car” cards are dealt to each player? (a) Four (b) Seven (c) Two (d) Twelve

6 Which planet is the densest of the four gas giants? (a) Saturn (b) Jupiter (c) Neptune (d) Uranus

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

WEEKLY CROSSWORD

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 ANOMALOUS

(a) Of unknown name

(b) Deviating from common rule

(c) Able to be made void

2 ETESIAN

(a) Recurring annually

(b) Without beginning or end

(c) Light and airy

3 HEBDOMADAL

(a) Having a blunt, soft point

(b) Having the form of a helix

(c) Weekly

4 INFRACTION

(a) Violation

(b) Misfortune

(c) The state of being infrequent

5 SOMA

(a) The body of an organism

(b) One who performs a solo

(c) A short or simplified sonata

SUNDAY GROUND UP

ABC TV, 8.30pm

No single player hogs the ball in this topical workplace comedy set around the launch of Tasmania’s first AFL team; instead, a stellar ensemble shares ‘best on ground’ honours. Sam Pang leads the pack as Hugh Shen, the laconic league executive tasked with spearheading the controversial rollout. However, much like Rob Sitch in Utopia, he’s backed up a raft of top-tier talent, including Emma Harvie (above left with Pang) and Marg Downey, among other familiar faces. In the penultimate instalment, the proposed location of the new stadium sparks a culture clash when it’s revealed to be just a few hundred metres from a symphony orchestra’s concert hall.

FRIDAY, July 3

MONDAY

ADAM LIAW’S NORTH AMERICAN FAN FEASTS

SBS FOOD, 8.30pm

Adam Liaw (pictured) steps out of The Cook Up kitchen to host this new six-part travel series that explores the intersection of sport and food across the FIFA World Cup host nations: the United States, Canada and Mexico. It’s less about the deepfried delights gobbled up by hungry spectators in packed stadiums, and more about the remarkable way that shared passions can help unite diverse communities. The MasterChef Australia winner kicks off his appetite-whetting adventure in vibrant Vancouver, on Canada’s west coast, where he showcases the picturesque city’s celebrated seafood with a decadent prawn and lobster poutine.

TUESDAY

LUCY WORSLEY’S VICTORIAN MURDER CLUB

ABC TV, 8.30pm Its title may evoke the charm of a cosy crime caper, but this riveting docuseries is anything but playful. Hosted by historian Lucy Worsley (right), it plunges viewers into the fog of Victorian-era London to unravel the grisly actions of one of Jack the Ripper’s lesser-known contemporaries.

The Thames Torso Murders remain a notorious series of unsolved killings from the late 1880s, during which the dismembered remains of slain women were cast into the city’s waterways. The final instalment jumps forward 12 years to 1902, when a new incident provides a fresh lead. Worsley and her all-female team of experts stop at nothing to crack the case.

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

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Compass. (PG, R) 10.30 Stu The British Stole. (PG, R) 11.00 Race Around The World. (M, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Portrait Artist Of The Year. (R) 1.50 Ground Up. (Mls, R) 2.15 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (Final, PG, R) 3.00 Restoration Aust. (PG, R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGv, R) 4.40 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Round of 32. Cont. 7.30 BBC News At Six. 8.00 France 24 English News. 8.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Round of 32. POR v CRO. 11.30 DD India News Hour. 12.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Round of 32. 3.30 Bettany Hughes: History Of Mother Earth. (PG, R) 4.30 Nefertiti: The Raiders Of The Lost Tomb. (PGa, R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

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

7.35 Monty Don’s British Gardens. Monty Don travels from Wales to Norfolk.

8.35 Saint-Pierre. (Premiere, Mv) An exiled inspector is sent to the French collectivity of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon. 9.20 Gruen. (PG, R) Wil Anderson and a panel of experts analyse the advertising industry and consumerism.

9.55 Would I Lie To You? (PG) Hosted by Rob Brydon.

10.25 ABC Late News.

10.45 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (Final, PG, R) 11.30 The Control Room. (Final, M, R)

12.30 Rage New Music. (MA15+dhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Paul Merton: Driving Amazing Trains. (PG)

8.30 Rain Bombs. Looks at a destructive weather phenomenon.

9.25 No Hamburg, No Beatles. (Mdns, R)

10.25 SBS World News Late.

10.55 FIFA World Cup 2026: Highlights Show.

11.25 The King. (MA15+v)

12.20 The Typist. (MA15+v, R) 1.30 Her War, Her Story: WWII. (PGa, R)

2.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG, R) 3.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Round of 32. Australia v Egypt.

VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 11.30 Wiggle. 11.45 Andy’s Safari Adventures. 1.30pm PJ Masks. 1.50 Kangaroo Beach. 2.30 The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 3.25 Wiggle. 4.05 Andy’s Dino Island. 4.20 Santiago Of The Seas. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 5.55 PJ Masks. 6.45 HexVets And Magic Pets. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.30 MOVIE: 200% Wolf. (2024, PG) 9.10 Caper Crew. 10.00 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 10.50 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Morning Programs. 12.30pm Land Of The Giants: Titans Of Tech. 2.10 Who Killed The WCW? 3.05 Bamay.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 Your Money & Your Life. (PG) 1.30 Border Security: International. (PG, R) 2.00 Bridge Of Lies: Celebrity Specials. (R) 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: A

6.00 7News Local.

6.30 7News @ 6:30. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs.

7.30 Football. AFL. Round 17. Sydney v Western Bulldogs. From the SCG.

10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews taking a look back at all the action from the match.

11.15 GetOn Extra. A look at the weekend’s best racing.

11.45 Autopsy USA: Verne Troyer. (Ma, R)

12.45 MOVIE: The Vows We Keep. (2021, PGa, R) An event planner nds love. Fiona Gubelmann.

3.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 NBC Today.

7TWO (62)

6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 18. Penrith Panthers v South Sydney Rabbitohs. From CommBank Stadium, Sydney. 9.55 NRL Friday Night Footy PostMatch. Post-match coverage and analysis of the NRL game between the Penrith Panthers and South Sydney Rabbitohs.

10.45 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 5. From the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, London, England. 12.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 5 Late. From the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, London, England.

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Postcards. (PG, R) Livinia Nixon visits the Hamilton Gallery and checks out a new restaurant at Pomonal Estate.

9GEM (82)

6.00 10 News+. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R)

7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) 7.30 Selling Houses Australia. (PGa, R) The team helps a man sell his house in Terrigal, within an hour’s drive of the Sydney CBD. 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. (PGs, R) 11.30 10 News+. (R) Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

Practice. 8.00

9.00

9.30

To The Country. 2.00

Doorstep. 2.30

Holidays Iconic Rail Journeys. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Better Homes. 5.00 Escape To The Country. 6.00 Bargain Hunt. 7.00 Better Homes. 8.00 Escape To The Country. 11.00 Late Programs. 6am Shopping.

Of Wellness. 1.00

3.00

Unearthed. 9.50 The Americans. 10.45 Fashionista. 11.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Round of 32. Belgium v Senegal. Replay. 2am NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera. 6am Room For Improvement. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30

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. 5.45

9GO! (83) 6am The Great

Dictator. (1940, PG) 8.20 And God Created Woman. (1956, PG, French) 10.00 Gattaca. (1997, M) Noon Mother Couch. (2023, M) 1.50 Sometimes Always Never. (2018, PG) 3.30 Explorers. (1985, PG) 5.35 Hercules. (1958, Italian) 7.30 The Fifth Element. (1997, PG) 9.50 Blade Runner. (1982, MA15+) Midnight Crossing Over. (2009, MA15+) 2.05 Beneath Hill 60. (2010, M) 4.15 That Good Night. (2017, M)

7MATE (64)

6am Morning Programs. 11.30 Rugby Heaven. 12.30pm Sur ng Aust. 1.00 Snackmasters. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 MOVIE: Harry Potter And The Chamber Of Secrets. (2002, PG) 10.45 MOVIE: Gretel & Hansel. (2020, M) 12.30am MOVIE: The Foreigner. (2017, MA15+) 2.45 Parental Guidance. 4.00 Barbie It Takes Two. 4.30 Barney’s World. 4.50 LEGO Friends: Girls On A Mission. 5.10 Cry Babies Magic Tears. 5.30 Beyblade Burst QuadStrike. 6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Creek To Coast. 8.00 Pawn Stars. 9.00 Mountain Men.

COMEDY (52)

Property Management

LOOKING TO RENT OUT YOUR PROPERTY?

Century 21 Plateau Lifestyle Real Estate provides landlords with a comprehensive service, including free appraisal for your property, and a smooth transition when changing the management of your property to their o ce. They work to provide a maximum return on your investment property with regular routine inspections and keeping the landlords updated with current rental prices

Testimonials

Thank you so much to Lynette and sta at Century 21 Alstonville, you provided above and beyond service, it was very comforting leasing our house through a Real Estate agent that cared about the house as if it was their own. We couldn’t be happier with the honest, professional service and wouldn’t think twice about using your services again.

Cody and Gabby

Jessica and the team have been wonderful with nding an excellent tenant and managing our rental property. Jessica is always available to us and has ensured our property is well looked after for both ourselves and the tenant.

Fiona

I have had a rental with Century 21 Alstonville for the last 3 years and they have always been a pleasure to deal with, Jessica and Lynette are lovely! Any issues that I’ve had with the property have been dealt with promptly and professionally. If I could give 6 stars, I would.

James

The property management team understand the value of communication and e ciency. They can discuss with you a personalised management package and tenant selection process. They can assist you with property management from Byron Bay, Bangalow, Lennox Head, Ballina, Alstonville, Wollongbar, Goonellabah, Lismore and surrounding areas. Put your most valuable asset in good hands.

Properties for sale

31 CORKS LANE BALLINA

4 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 2 Car Garage

Set on 2.04 hectares (5.040 acres) of low-maintenance land, this property o ers a rare chance to secure a listing of this calibre. It features multiple sheds, providing ample space for machinery storage. A standout feature is the separate shed access, o ering added exibility for vehicles, equipment, or business operations. The home features the front-facing living area enjoys plenty of natural light, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere, four spacious bedrooms. The primary bedroom includes a large built-in robe and a private ensuite, each bedroom with ceiling fans and ducted cooling for year-round comfort. A sliding glass door opens to the outdoor entertaining area, providing a great space for gatherings or everyday relaxation. The covered patio o ers plenty of room for barbecues, family meals, or simply enjoying the fresh air. Beyond the patio, the spacious backyard is well-maintained and ideal for kids, pets, or gardening. Just a few steps away, the saltwater pool provides a refreshing spot to cool o , making it a practical and enjoyable addition to the space. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to acquire a substantial holding with endless possibilities.

CONTACT NOEL OUTERBRIDGE 0404 816 000

26 WYBELENA ROAD WYRALLAH

5 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms

The property spans 36.61 Hectares (90 Acres) of fertile red basalt soil and includes a well-established lemon myrtle plantation supported by strong water security, with an 8ML main dam, several smaller dams and a 14ML entitlement. Around 4.6 hectares are under plantation, with more than 51,000 trees planted since 2021, and production already reaching 46 tonnes in 2025 with expectations of 85 tonnes or more as the crop matures. The main residence features four well appointed bedrooms and two bathrooms, including a privately positioned primary suite with its own ensuite. A separate one bedroom, one bathroom dwelling provides a well-appointed, self-contained space with its own living area and a covered outdoor zone overlooking the gardens, o ering excellent exibility for guests or independent living. This inviting property delivers a calm, country atmosphere without sacri cing convenience.

CONTACT NOEL OUTERBRIDGE 0404 816 000

Properties for sale

389 TEVEN ROAD TEVEN

This exceptional 40.88-hectare holding comprises rich, at and highly fertile alluvial land, o ering both productivity and lifestyle appeal. Just a short drive to Ballina Byron Gateway Airport and nearby coastal towns, it provides a peaceful rural retreat with outstanding access to modern conveniences.

Approximately 6,600 income-producing macadamia trees are established on generous nine-metre row spacings, featuring a strong mix of high kernel-recovery varieties. Set on the renowned Teven Valley soils, the orchard is well established and positioned for long-term productivity. A designated area is planted with tea tree, generating supplementary income while also producing a high-value mulch and compost input that supports orchard health and productivity. Improvements include two large lockable machinery sheds, a valuable dwelling entitlement, additional level planting areas, and well-designed row mounding to enhance e ciency across the land. Improvements include two large lockable machinery sheds, a valuable dwelling entitlement.

292 PIMLICO ROAD PIMLICO

This premium horticultural holding comprises 60.91 hectares of fertile Northern Rivers country, purpose-developed as a commercial macadamia enterprise.

Approximately 40 hectares are planted with 10,000 macadamia trees aged up to 5 years. Varieties include 344, MCT-1, A38, 246 and A203, planted at professional orchard spacings of 9 m x 4 m and 10 m x 3.5 m, supporting e cient machinery access and long-term productivity.

The orchard has been established using GPS-guided planting, ensuring precise row alignment and uniform spacing across the farm. This level of accuracy places the property at the forefront of modern macadamia production and allows for seamless integration with the next generation of GPS-enabled and automated harvesting and orchard management machinery. A further 15 hectares remains available for future planting, providing signi cant expansion upside. In addition, a 2-hectare western block is currently being developed and will be planted with an additional 570 trees, increasing total tree numbers to approximately 10,400.

CONTACT NOEL OUTERBRIDGE 0404 816 000

It

C l a r e n c e P r o p e r t y

D i v e r s i f i e d F u n d .

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

Lots from 560sqm to 20 hectare

S E

TARGET TIME O

L D S

I D V

Today’s target: 20 words average 27 words good 34+ words excellent

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

ASTROLOGY

ARIES (Mar 21 - Apr 19)

This week Mercury reverses through your home zone from Tuesday morning until July 24. So, expect some domestic disruptions (like plumbing problems or appliances breaking down) and/ or family friction (like arguments or misunderstandings). But you can still have an enjoyable week, as Mars (your boss planet) makes positive aspects to Uranus, Neptune and Pluto. Slow down, Rams! An innovative, creative and patient approach will get you through.

TAURUS (Apr 20 - May 20)

On Tuesday, prosperity planet Jupiter transits into your domestic zone. So – sometime over the next 12 months – you could redecorate, renovate, build an extension, sell property, buy a new home, relocate or start a home-based business. Good fortune could also come via a loved one, distant relative or family friend. Plus, Mercury reverses through your communication and transport zones, until July 24. So, take extra care when talking, writing and driving.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 20)

Expect a rather chaotic and disruptive week, as Mercury (your ruling planet) turns retrograde on Tuesday. And then impulsive Mars and reckless Uranus link up in your sign on Saturday. The good news? On Tuesday, Jupiter jumps into your neighbourhood and local travel zones. So – over the coming year – you’ll make some exciting new connections within your local community. Short trips (especially interstate) are also likely in the months ahead.

CANCER (June 21 - July 22)

With Mercury reversing through your sign (from Tuesday until July 24) resist the urge to overanalyse, over-worry, overstress and overreact – especially involving personal matters, close relationships (romantic and platonic) plus joint ventures. Think things through, but avoid getting caught up in an endless, obsessive loop. Try to relax and go with the flow. Jupiter jumps into your financial zone, which is good for money matters over the coming year.

LEO (July 23 - Aug 22)

Mercury Retrograde season starts on Tuesday. So – if you stir up grievances with an old adversary –you could find you’ve bitten off more than you can comfortably chew! When it comes to relationship problems, avoid quick fixes (especially with relatives). You’ll come up with a satisfactory solution if you think things through and act on your hunches. With peaceful Venus and generous Jupiter visiting your sign, learn to smile sweetly, forgive and forget.

VIRGO (Aug 23 - Sep 22)

Are people aware of the substantial amount of work you’re doing behind the scenes? Don’t be disappointed if others aren’t showing their appreciation at the moment. Your efforts will be applauded (and rewarded) further down the track. In the meantime, focus your attention on helping others (family, friends, colleagues and acquaintances) in creative ways. As birthday great Princess Diana said: “Everyone has the potential to give something back.”

LIBRA (Sep 23 - Oct 22)

Communication planet Mercury reverses through your career zone (until July 24), so relations with a boss, business partner, work colleague, client or customer could be challenging. So do your best to pick your battles very carefully, choose your words very wisely, plus check all meetings and appointment times thoroughly. The next three weeks is a good time to do things with an ‘re’ in front … revise, remember, rehearse, revisit, rethink and reboot.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 - Nov 21)

The week starts with Mercury reversing through your travel and adventure zones. If you are going away in the next three weeks (especially interstate or overseas) make sure you doublecheck your itinerary. And (if possible) avoid signing important contracts and legal documents (and making expensive purchases) until after July 24. Then Jupiter jumps into your career zone on Tuesday, so make the most of any professional good fortune that comes your way.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 - Dec 21)

Mercury begins reversing through your secrets and joint finances zones on Tuesday morning. So, keep your lips zipped and be very clear when making financial transactions with others. Then Jupiter (planet of expansion and exploration) transits into your travel zone on Tuesday afternoon, so foreign shores beckon over the next 12 months. Smart Sagittarians will start planning your itinerary now – and make sure you keep up to date with your international contacts.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 - Jan 19)

Conscientious Capricorns can easily become preoccupied with the busy distractions of daily life, full of noisy notifications and endless work. This week Venus and Jupiter light up your intuition and secrets zones (in the creative sign of Leo), so aim to spend some quality time on your own. Slow down, meditate, contemplate, ruminate and listen to the quiet voice within. Your motto is from birthday great Princess Diana: “I work on instinct. It’s my best advisor.”

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 - Feb 18)

Expect the unexpected this week – especially involving children, teenagers, friends or lovers. Hasty Mars hooks up with unruly Uranus (your patron planet) on Saturday, when you’re inclined to unpredictable behaviour, like starting a radical new project or falling in love very fast. Don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater, though! Your mantra is from birthday great Princess Diana: “I don’t go by the rule book … I lead from the heart, not the head.”

PISCES (Feb 19 - Mar 20)

Mercury turns retrograde early on Tuesday. It’s the planet of clear thinking, communication (talking, texting and writing), transport, travel, commuting, commerce, computers, media and the internet. So, it’s not a good time to: gossip; sign contracts; start a job or business; buy a phone, computer, car or home; launch a website; install new software; go on an important business trip or embark on a big holiday. Instead, be patient and wait until after July 24.

No Small Thing: Inspiring Women Leaders to Tackle Big Challenges in Murwillumbah

By Jeff Gibbs

The Northern Rivers will play host to an evening of thought-provoking discussion, inspiration and community connection this week as some of Australia's leading voices in media, law, environmental leadership and social change gather for No Small Thing at the Regent Theatre in Murwillumbah.

Hosted by the Northern Rivers Community Foundation (NRCF) Women's Giving Circle, the event on Thursday, 2 July, will explore one of the defining questions of modern life: how do individuals remain hopeful, engaged and effective when faced with complex global challenges?

Rather than focusing solely on the scale of issues such as climate change, gender equality, democracy, media and social justice, the evening aims to examine how meaningful change often begins at the grassroots level, with communities, local organisations and individuals

working together.

Headlining the event is Hannah Ferguson, cofounder and chief executive of independent news platform Cheek Media, one of Australia's fastestgrowing independent media organisations. Ferguson has become one of the country's emerging voices on media, politics and public engagement, reaching millions of Australians each month through journalism, commentary and podcasting. She is also the co-author of two bestselling books and has been recognised in the Forbes

30 Under 30 list.

Joining Ferguson on stage will be an accomplished panel of women working across legal reform, environmental leadership, Indigenous health and community development. Isabelle Reinecke, founder and executive director of Grata Fund, has become nationally recognised for using strategic litigation and advocacy to strengthen democracy and advance public interest law in Australia. Her work focuses on protecting rights and freedoms while supporting

Science in the Pub to Explore River Restoration and Flood Resilience

By Jeff Gibbs

Residents across the Northern Rivers will have the opportunity to learn how river rehabilitation is helping restore local waterways while improving flood resilience during an upcoming Science in the Pub community event in South Lismore.

Hosted by Richmond Landcare Inc, the evening will bring together local scientists, environmental specialists and project coordinators to explain the science behind river restoration and showcase projects currently transforming waterways throughout the region.

The event will be held on Thursday, July 16, at Two Mates Brewing in South Lismore, providing an informal setting where community members can hear directly from experts and ask questions about the health of local rivers and future environmental initiatives.

Presentations will begin at 6pm following music on arrival from 5pm, with speakers discussing how rehabilitation works are

improving water quality, restoring habitats for native wildlife and strengthening the natural resilience of rivers during flood events. Organisers say healthy waterways provide significant environmental, economic and social benefits for the Northern Rivers, while carefully planned restoration projects can also help reduce some flood impacts by improving the natural function of river systems.

The evening aims to make scientific information accessible to everyone, with short presentations followed by an interactive question-and-answer session encouraging audience participation.

Richmond Landcare says the event is designed to help residents better understand the important work taking place across the region and demonstrate how community involvement can contribute to healthier waterways into the future.

Attendees will learn about current river rehabilitation projects, the environmental benefits they are delivering and practical ways local communities can support

significant legal challenges that seek systemic reform. Former Global Director of Gender Equity at The Nature Conservancy, Robyn James, brings more than two decades of international experience at the intersection of gender equality, conservation and climate action. Her work has spanned more than 17 countries, championing greater representation for women in environmental leadership and communitybased conservation initiatives. Completing the panel is Evie Wood, co-founder and chief executive of Coolamon Community, a Northern Rivers-based organisation improving health outcomes for Aboriginal mothers and babies through culturally safe, community-led healthcare models operating across New South Wales, the Kimberley and the Northern Territory.

The evening will begin with a Welcome to Country delivered by Mindy Woods, an acclaimed Bundjalung chef, author and

cultural leader recognised internationally for promoting Indigenous food, culture and connection to Country Organisers say the discussion will focus on understanding how seemingly separate issues—including climate, media, gender equality and democracy—are deeply interconnected, while also highlighting why local communities continue to play a critical role in driving lasting change.

The event is expected to combine keynote presentations, a moderated panel discussion, audience questions and opportunities for networking in what organisers describe as "less doomscrolling and more reallife inspiration."

Beyond the discussion itself, the evening also provides an opportunity for residents to learn more about the NRCF Women's Giving Circle, a growing philanthropic network that pools member contributions to support grassroots projects benefiting women and girls throughout

the Northern Rivers. Through collective giving, members help fund initiatives ranging from trauma recovery programs and cultural mentoring to Indigenous health and community wellbeing projects, with funding decisions made collaboratively by members each year.

Organisers believe the conversation is particularly relevant at a time when many Australians are feeling overwhelmed by global events and social challenges, arguing that meaningful progress often begins through local action and community engagement.

No Small Thing will be held at the Regent Theatre, Murwillumbah, on Thursday, 2 July, with doors opening at 5pm, presentations commencing at 6.30pm, and the evening concluding at 9pm. Catering and drinks will be available for purchase throughout the event. Tickets are available through the Humanitix booking platform.

ongoing restoration efforts. The relaxed atmosphere will include live music, an outdoor fire pit and opportunities for residents to meet others with an interest in environmental conservation and flood resilience.

Light refreshments are included in the ticket price, while meals and beverages will be available for purchase throughout the evening.

The event will run from 5pm until 9pm at Two Mates Brewing, 7 Engine Street, South Lismore, with tickets priced at $5.

Organisers encourage those planning to attend to register in advance to assist with catering and seating arrangements.

The evening promises to combine science, community discussion and practical environmental knowledge, offering residents an opportunity to better understand how restoring rivers today can help create healthier waterways and more resilient communities for the future.

Bookings can be made through the Humanitix event page.

Retirement Should Sound This Good: Hearing Experts Urge Australians Not to Ignore Hearing Loss

By Jeff Gibbs

Retirement is often described as the reward for decades of hard work, offering the freedom to spend more time with family, pursue hobbies and enjoy life's quieter moments. However, for many Australians, untreated hearing loss is preventing them from making the most of those years.

Health experts are encouraging Australians to take hearing health seriously, warning that delaying treatment can significantly affect confidence, independence and overall quality of life.

For Bexhill resident Sally Smith, seeking help for her hearing loss transformed her retirement experience after years of gradually withdrawing from conversations and social situations.

Sally first noticed changes in her hearing around a decade before deciding to seek professional assistance. Like many Australians, she delayed treatment, believing hearing aids would be too expensive and learning to adapt by avoiding situations where hearing became difficult.

"I started staying away from group conversations because I couldn't always follow what people were saying," Sally said.

Although she had undergone a hearing assessment years earlier, financial concerns prevented her from taking the next step. It wasn't until retirement that Sally decided to prioritise her hearing.

"Once I retired, it was one of the first things I did. After working for many years, this is the time for us to enjoy retirement and I wanted to be able to fully

experience it," she said.

After visiting Hearing Australia in Lismore on a friend's recommendation, Sally immediately noticed the difference.

"The audiologist was fantastic. When I tried the hearing aid she recommended, I almost cried because I could hear so much more and everything was so much clearer."

Now fitted with an AIassisted premium hearing aid, Sally says everyday life has changed dramatically. "Having my hearing back has been life changing. I

take part in conversations again, my family doesn't have to repeat themselves and I feel much more confident looking after my grandchildren. Even watching television with my husband is enjoyable for both of us now."

Hearing Australia Product Solutions Manager Deanna Connor said Sally's story reflects the experience of thousands of Australians who wait far too long before addressing hearing problems.

Research commissioned by Hearing Australia found that while almost two-thirds of Australians know they should have their hearing checked every three years, only around four in ten actually do so, with many delaying treatment for between seven and ten years.

Cost remains one of the biggest reasons people postpone seeking help. The research found that nearly half of Australians who were advised to seek treatment delayed doing so because they believed hearing care would be too expensive. Women were slightly more likely than men to cite cost as a barrier.

Ms Connor said many people underestimate the broader consequences of

untreated hearing loss.

"Hearing loss affects much more than your ears. It can impact relationships, confidence and participation in everyday life," she said.

Hearing Australia

Provisional Audiologist

June Dunning said untreated hearing loss often leads people to withdraw socially because conversations become exhausting.

"Hearing loss isn't just about missing words; it's about staying connected to the people around you," Ms Dunning said.

"People often spend so much energy concentrating on conversations that they gradually stop participating altogether. For someone entering retirement, that can quietly limit many of life's greatest pleasures."

Research cited by Hearing Australia shows untreated hearing loss is linked with significantly higher levels of loneliness, particularly among people over 40, while even mild hearing loss increases the likelihood of psychological stress.

The issue also comes as Australians continue living longer than previous generations.

According to research

referenced by Hearing Australia, there is now an average 12-year gap between lifespan and health span, meaning many Australians spend more than a decade living with declining health and reduced independence.

Maintaining hearing health is considered one of the most effective ways of preserving social connection and quality of life throughout retirement.

To encourage earlier intervention, Hearing Australia offers free adult hearing checks, typically taking around 15 minutes and providing an initial assessment together with advice about any further treatment that may be required.

The organisation also provides a range of payment options, including interest-free plans and government-subsidised hearing services for eligible Australians, helping reduce financial barriers to treatment.

For Australians approaching or already enjoying retirement, experts say one simple hearing test could make the difference between merely growing older and continuing to enjoy an active, connected and fulfilling life.

Northern Rivers to Benefit from New NSW Seniors and Carers Support Program

By Jeff Gibbs

Older people and their unpaid carers across the Northern Rivers will have easier access to vital support services under a new $3.6 million NSW Government pilot program aimed at helping seniors remain independent, connected and active within their communities.

The Connecting Seniors and Carers Program will operate over three years, expanding on the former Connecting Seniors Grant Program by extending support to unpaid carers of older people.

The initiative is designed to simplify what can often be a confusing network of services by providing a single point of contact to help people find the assistance they need.

As part of the program, four organisations have

been appointed as regional "community connectors" across 16 local government areas in regional New South Wales.

For the Northern Rivers, Northern Rivers Community Gateway Incorporated has been selected to deliver the program across Ballina, Clarence Valley, Kyogle, Lismore, Richmond Valley and Tweed.

The organisation will connect seniors and carers with local services that promote wellbeing, independence and greater community participation.

Support available through the program includes information and advice, individual needs assessments, outreach services, short-term case planning and referrals to programs including My Aged Care, Carers Gateway and the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

Participants may also be linked with services offering financial wellbeing support, legal assistance, family and relationship counselling,

and opportunities to become more involved in their local communities.

The program follows an independent review of the previous Connecting Seniors Grant Program, which recommended creating a clearer entry point into the support system while providing more flexible, coordinated services tailored to individual needs.

It also supports the priorities outlined in the NSW Government's Ageing Well Seniors Strategy and NSW Carers Strategy, both aimed at improving health, social inclusion and community participation for older Australians and those who care for them.

The remaining organisations selected to deliver the pilot include Maari Ma Health Aboriginal Corporation, CareWays Community, and Springwood Neighbourhood Centre Cooperative, each servicing regional communities across New South Wales.

Minister for Seniors Jodie

Harrison said many older people and carers experience difficulties navigating available support services.

"We know older people and their carers often report barriers to accessing the support they need," Ms Harrison said.

"That's why the Minns Labor Government is delivering the Connecting Seniors and Carers Program designed to provide simpler and clearer pathways to support for those who need it most.

"The four organisations funded through this new program have strong local service footprints and are well placed to empower seniors and carers to remain connected to the communities they know and love."

The pilot program forms part of the NSW Government's broader commitment to supporting an ageing population and recognising the important contribution unpaid carers make in helping older Australians continue living independently within their communities.

New CGT Rules Could Force Australians to Value Everyday Collectibles

By Jeff Gibbs

Millions of Australians could be required to obtain valuations for personal collections, jewellery, artwork and other household assets under proposed capital gains tax (CGT) reforms, with accountants warning the changes could create a significant compliance burden and unexpected costs for families.

CPA Australia has raised concerns about the proposed reforms, which would require all CGT assets held on 30 June 2027 to have a market value established as the starting point for the new tax rules.

CPA Australia Tax Lead Jenny Wong told The Northern Rivers Times many Australians may not realise the changes extend far beyond investment properties and share portfolios.

“Most Australians think this reform is about investment properties and share portfolios – but it actually goes much further than that,” Ms Wong said.

Under current tax law, collectibles purchased for more than $500, including artwork, jewellery, rare

coins, first-edition books and trading cards, are generally considered CGT assets. Personal-use assets valued above $10,000 may also fall within the rules.

If the reforms proceed, taxpayers would need to establish a defensible market valuation for these assets as at 30 June 2027.

Ms Wong noted that items such as vintage watches, coin collections, jewellery and collectible trading cards could all be affected, creating uncertainty for households attempting to determine which possessions require valuation.

She also warned inherited assets may be captured

under the reforms.

“Think about grandma’s jewellery box – pieces accumulated over decades and passed down through generations. Families may be required to obtain formal valuations for each item before 1 July 2027,” Ms Wong said.

CPA Australia said the

changes are likely to trigger a substantial increase in demand for tax advice, record-keeping assistance and professional valuation services, placing additional pressure on accountants and tax agents.

The organisation estimates the one-off transitional valuation burden could total between

$675 million and $825 million nationwide, with formal valuations potentially costing hundreds of dollars per item.

CPA Australia has also expressed concerns about the proposed split-gain mechanism, warning it could result in some taxpayers paying tax on more than their actual economic gain where asset values fluctuate before and after the 2027 valuation date.

Ms Wong stressed that clearer guidance is needed to help taxpayers understand which assets are captured and how valuations should be conducted.

“The Treasurer has said this reform targets property speculators and high-income investors, but in reality it places new obligations on every Australian holding CGT assets – and on the accountants who support them,” she said.

“Without clearer guidance and simplification, the compliance burden on both taxpayers and the profession risks being significant and unfair.”

CPA Australia warns Australians against relying on AI for tax advice

By Jeff Gibbs

Australians are being urged to think twice before relying on social media personalities or artificial intelligence platforms for tax advice this end of financial year, with CPA Australia warning that significant Federal Budget tax reforms have created one of the most complex tax environments in decades.

The nation's largest accounting body says misinformation circulating online could leave taxpayers exposed to costly mistakes, incorrect tax returns and unexpected penalties, particularly as proposed reforms to capital gains tax, negative gearing and discretionary trusts begin reshaping Australia's taxation landscape.

CPA Australia Tax

Lead Jenny Wong said the scale of the proposed changes meant many

Australians could no longer rely on generic online advice, regardless of how convincing it appeared.

She said recent Federal Budget measures represented some of the most substantial proposed tax reforms seen in decades and required careful consideration based on each person's financial circumstances.

Among the proposed reforms are changes to the way capital gains tax discounts are calculated through an indexation method, the introduction of a minimum 30 per cent tax on capital gains from July 2027, new limitations on negative gearing, and a minimum 30 per cent tax on discretionary trust income from July 2028.

According to CPA Australia, these changes significantly increase the potential for inaccurate or oversimplified advice to spread through social media platforms and AI-

generated responses.

Ms Wong said tax law could not be accurately explained through shortform videos or simplified online commentary because every taxpayer's circumstances were different.

She warned that strategies promoted online as simple ways to maximise deductions, restructure investments or reduce tax liabilities could produce very different outcomes depending on an individual's financial position.

"The rules are becoming more complex and more nuanced," she said.

"What might appear to be a simple strategy online could have very different outcomes depending on your individual circumstances."

CPA Australia says it is already seeing AIgenerated responses and social media content

attempting to explain the reforms in ways that oversimplify the legislation or omit important details.

The organisation is particularly concerned about advice encouraging Australians to rapidly restructure investments or move assets into selfmanaged superannuation funds solely because of proposed capital gains tax changes.

Ms Wong said such recommendations often ignored critical legal obligations, preservation rules and long-term compliance requirements associated with selfmanaged super funds.

She stressed that while AI tools and digital platforms could assist with general financial education, they should never replace qualified professional advice.

Importantly, she reminded taxpayers that responsibility for the

accuracy of a tax return always rests with the individual lodging it, regardless of where the information originated.

The warning comes as the Australian Taxation Office intensifies its compliance efforts for the 2025-26 financial year.

The ATO is focusing on work-related expense claims lacking a genuine connection to earning income, undeclared income from side businesses and platform work, as well as incorrect reporting from the growing gig economy.

CPA Australia recommends anyone with investments, rental properties, trusts or more complex financial affairs seek advice from a registered tax agent before lodging their return.

Professional advice, the organisation notes, is itself tax deductible.

To help Australians navigate tax season safely,

CPA Australia has issued six key recommendations:

• Verify the qualifications of anyone providing tax advice.

• Ensure advice relates specifically to Australian tax law and current Budget reforms.

• Be cautious of "onesize-fits-all" tax strategies.

• Avoid relying on AI-generated answers for personal taxation decisions.

• Understand that every taxpayer's circumstances are different.

• Seek advice from a registered tax agent, such as a CPA.

Ms Wong said professional advice had never been more valuable.

She said taxpayers who sought qualified assistance would be better placed to comply with the changing rules while ensuring they took advantage of legitimate opportunities available under Australian tax law.

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NFF Responds to APVMA Decision on Paraquat Use

By Ian Rogers

The National Farmers' Federation (NFF) says it will examine the impact of new restrictions after the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) ruled paraquat and diquat can remain available for use in Australia.

The APVMA's final decision allows the herbicides to continue being used but introduces lower application rates and additional safety controls.

NFF President Hamish McIntyre said farmers take their responsibility to protect people and the environment seriously

while producing the nation's food and fibre.

He said Australia's agricultural chemical regulations already require strict safety measures, including mandatory protective equipment, controlled application methods and operator training.

Mr McIntyre

also reaffirmed the Federation's support for the APVMA as Australia's independent, science-based regulator, saying farmers rely on its assessments to ensure agricultural chemicals remain safe and effective.

The NFF said paraquat continues to play an important role in weed

control and conservation farming practices such as no-till agriculture, helping reduce soil erosion and improve soil health.

The Federation will now work with industry to understand the practical implications of the new requirements and provide members with evidencebased guidance.

Mr McIntyre said future decisions on agricultural chemicals must continue to be based on robust scientific evidence while maintaining strong safety protections for farmers, workers and the environment.

Strong Cow and Steer Prices Highlight Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange Sale

The Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange recorded another solid prime cattle sale this week, with strong demand for quality stock producing competitive prices across most categories.

A total of 2,310 head were sold through 908 lots, generating a gross market value of more than $2.85 million. Buyers remained active throughout the sale, particularly for well-finished steers, cows and heavy bullocks, while lighter and

secondary lines met more selective competition.

Steers once again attracted some of the strongest bidding of the day. A total of 694 head averaged 491.1 cents per kilogram, reaching a sale-high of 600.2c/kg. Returns ranged from $255 to $2,729.24 per head, with the category averaging $1,124.87. The large yarding of 823 heifers also sold well, averaging 398.5c/kg and topping at 488.2c/kg. Prices ranged from $214.89 to

$2,091.41 per head, reflecting continued demand for both feeder and processor cattle.

Cows made up the largest section of the sale, with 701 head offered. Prices averaged 336.7c/kg and reached 420c/ kg for the better quality lines. Vendors received between $312 and $3,173.31 per head, with an average return of $1,620.88.

Heavy bullocks maintained their recent momentum, averaging 402.6c/kg and topping at 440.2c/kg.

Individual returns ranged from $811.03 to $3,475.80 per head.

The bull market remained firm, with 35 head averaging 360c/kg and reaching 396.2c/kg. Values ranged from $857.52 to $3,667, highlighting continued processor demand for heavier bulls.

Vealer numbers were comparatively small. Eight vealers averaged 275.5c/ kg, while 36 vealer bulls averaged 292.3c/kg, topping

at 450.2c/kg and returning up to $1,320.

The sale also included a small offering of prime cattle sold on a per-head basis. Two bobby calves sold for $20 each, while eight cows and calves averaged $1,129.38, topping at $1,240.

Across all categories sold by weight, the market averaged 387.6c/kg, with the average value sitting at $1,235.10 per head. The overall sale generated $2,853,090.35, underlining another successful

trading day for producers, buyers and agents despite seasonal winter conditions. The results continue to demonstrate resilient demand for quality cattle throughout the Northern Rivers, with well-finished stock maintaining excellent competition as producers move deeper into the winter selling season.

By The Northern Rivers Rural News Desk

BULL MARKET DELIVERS STRONG RETURNS AT NORTHERN RIVERS LIVESTOCK EXCHANGE

A quality offering of breeding and commercial bulls attracted spirited bidding at the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange's weekly bidder sale, with buyers paying up to $14,000 for top genetics.

The sale saw 32 bulls offered across 32 lots, with every animal successfully finding a new owner. Strong

competition from commercial cattle producers and stud buyers reflected continued confidence in investing in quality breeding stock despite seasonal winter conditions.

Prices opened at $5,000, with demand strengthening throughout the sale as buyers competed for proven genetics and herd-improving sires.

The sale averaged an impressive $7,062.50 per head, highlighting the ongoing value placed on quality breeding bulls capable of improving herd performance and productivity.

The standout bull sold for $14,000, demonstrating the premium buyers are willing to pay for superior genetics,

structural soundness and proven breeding potential. Overall, the sale generated a gross value of $226,000, representing another successful result for vendors and reinforcing the resilience of the northern New South Wales cattle industry.

The solid clearance and

strong average price indicate producers remain focused on long-term herd improvement, with quality sires continuing to command significant premiums even as winter conditions influence livestock markets across the region.

With widespread interest from commercial operators, the latest bidder sale once again demonstrated that investment in superior genetics remains a priority for cattle producers seeking to enhance productivity, fertility and profitability in their breeding programs.

By The Northern Rivers Rural News Desk

WARWICK LIVESTOCK MARKET HOLDS FIRM DESPITE WINTER SLOWDOWN

LIVESTOCK MARKETS –

WARWICK & DISTRICT |

Week Ending June 26, 2026

The shortest day of the year delivered smaller yardings at Warwick this week, but despite the winter slowdown, most livestock categories held firm as buyers continued to compete for quality stock.

A total of 865 cattle and 1,018 sheep and lambs were yarded, with agents reporting solid demand across wellfinished lines. The only weakness in the market came from unfinished and lighter conditioned stock, which eased in value as buyers became more selective.

With the end of the financial year approaching and seasonal conditions continuing to influence producer decisions, weather remains the key factor

likely to determine yarding numbers over the coming weeks.

The cattle market again produced encouraging results across most categories.

Bulls averaged 417c/kg, reaching a top of 470.2c/kg, returning between $2,297.07 and $4,153.54.

Cows averaged 327.7c/ kg, topping at 400c/kg, with returns ranging from $1,671.76 to $2,678.60.

Demand for younger cattle remained particularly strong.

Feeder steers averaged an impressive 491.8c/kg, peaking at 600.2c/kg, selling between $1,783.97 and $2,504.67.

Feeder heifers averaged 405.6c/kg, topping at 486.2c/ kg, while yearling steers averaged 499.8c/kg, reaching

574.2c/kg. Yearling heifers averaged 420.4c/kg, topping at 492.2c/kg.

Among the lighter cattle, vealer steers averaged 471.4c/ kg, peaking at 582.2c/kg, while vealer heifers averaged 415.7c/kg, topping at 488.2c/ kg.

Finished heifers averaged 374.9c/kg, with a top price of 438.2c/kg.

Across all classes, the 865-head cattle sale averaged $1,525.31 per head, reflecting another consistent performance for vendors despite reduced numbers.

The sheep and lamb market remained generally firm even though several regular buyers were absent.

Trade and processing lambs continued to attract

solid competition, although averages eased slightly as more unfinished and feeder types entered the market.

Lambs topped at $320, averaging $234.04, down $32 per head on last week.

Hoggets improved, topping at $268 and averaging $239.19, an increase of $20 per head.

Ram lambs reached $257 to average $169, while ewes topped at $232, averaging $157.49.

Wethers sold to $232, averaging $221, while rams reached $194 and averaged $181.27.

The overall sheep and lamb yarding of 1,018 head averaged $218.81 per head, representing a modest decline of $9 per head from the previous week.

Several quality consignments attracted strong bidding throughout the sale.

The Wilsonton High School Agriculture Class recorded the highest lamb price of the day, selling shorn Dorset lambs weighing 60kg for $320, with another line of 56.5kg lambs making $313.

The Davey Family sold Australian White lambs to $317, while Hellyar Family Trust received up to $301 for Dorper lambs.

Bruce and Caitlin Ole sold sucker lambs to $272, while Clifton High School achieved $300 for a quality run of Dorper lambs.

In the pig section, numbers remained solid with most entries again comprising store stock.

Prices were generally firm on the previous week, with sows selling from $170 to $370, boars making $110 to $120, baconers reaching $205, porkers selling from $170 to $330, and store pigs making between $85 and $192. Overall, Warwick's winter market continued to demonstrate the resilience of both buyers and vendors. While seasonal conditions have reduced yardings and shifted supply towards lighter, unfinished stock, competition for quality livestock remains strong, providing encouraging returns across most categories as the industry moves into the second half of the year.

By

The Northern Rivers Rural News Desk

Northern Rivers Berry Grower Secures Nearly $500,000 to Expand Kiwi Berry Production

By Ian Rogers

A Northern Rivers family farming business has secured almost half a million dollars in funding to help transform kiwi berries into a mainstream Australian fruit, with support from the latest round of the Coles Nurture Fund.

Tallogum Berries, a second-generation farming business in the Northern Rivers, has been awarded $495,000 to establish a commercial-scale nextgeneration kiwi berry breeding program aimed at increasing production and extending the fruit's short harvest season.

The funding forms part of almost $1 million awarded to two New South Wales agricultural businesses through Round 14 of the Coles Nurture Fund, which supports innovative projects designed to improve sustainability, efficiency and long-term growth across Australia's food and farming sectors. Since launching in 2015, the Coles Nurture Fund has distributed more than $43 million to 127 Australian businesses, with grants of up to $500,000 helping producers bring new ideas and technologies to life. New South Wales businesses have now received more than $7.5

million through the program.

Tallogum Berries owner Natalie Bell said the project builds on the family's long history in berry production and aims to make kiwi berries more widely available to Australian consumers.

The new commercial trial will allow the business to evaluate improved kiwi berry varieties capable of producing higher yields and extending the current supply season, helping establish the fruit as a regular feature on supermarket shelves.

Ms Bell said kiwi berries offer consumers a convenient alternative to

traditional kiwifruit.

"Kiwi berries are a small, snack-sized fruit with smooth edible skin, making them ideal for lunchboxes and healthy snacks," she said.

She said the family had witnessed the rapid growth of Australia's blueberry industry over recent decades and believed kiwi berries had similar potential if production could be expanded and made more consistent.

The Northern Rivers grant recipient was one of eight businesses selected nationally under the latest

funding round.

Also receiving funding was Wintergreen Farm near Tamworth, which was awarded $500,000 to construct a 30-megalitre above-ground water storage system designed to improve water security for its poultry operation and reduce evaporation losses.

Coles Group Chief Commercial and Sustainability Officer Anna Croft said the successful projects demonstrated the innovation taking place within Australian agriculture. She said while the

projects addressed different challenges, both had the potential to deliver benefits beyond the individual businesses by strengthening Australia's food production systems and encouraging practical innovation throughout the agricultural sector.

Applications for the next round of the Coles Nurture Fund are expected to open in January 2027, providing further opportunities for Australian primary producers to secure funding for innovative farming projects.

Farmers Urged to Stay Vigilant After H5 Bird Flu Detected in Wild Birds

By Ian Rogers

The National Farmers' Federation (NFF) is urging farmers and the wider community to remain vigilant following the confirmation of H5 avian influenza in two wild seabirds on Western Australia's southern coastline.

The detection, involving a brown skua and a giant petrel, marks a significant biosecurity development, prompting heightened surveillance and preparedness measures as authorities work to monitor the situation.

NFF President Hamish McIntyre said while the discovery was serious, Australia was well equipped to respond and the current risk to human health remained low.

"Australia has successfully managed other avian influenza

strains in recent years, and the risk to humans remains low," Mr McIntyre said.

"This will undoubtedly be a stressful time for farmers and has the potential to create significant impacts across the sector."

Australia has maintained its reputation as the only continent free from the H5N1 strain of avian influenza that has spread

extensively around the world since 2020. Mr McIntyre said protecting that status required ongoing vigilance from everyone involved in agriculture and wildlife management.

"Australia has worked hard to maintain its status as the only continent free from the H5N1 strain that has spread globally

since 2020, which is why vigilance is so important," he said.

Farmers, landholders and members of the public are being encouraged to immediately report any sick or dead birds, or other animals showing unusual symptoms, to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.

Producers are also being advised to review on-farm biosecurity plans, reinforce hygiene practices and ensure employees, contractors and visitors understand their responsibilities for preventing the spread of disease.

Authorities continue to provide updated information through the national bird flu information website as surveillance and testing continue.

Mr McIntyre said the latest detection highlighted the importance of maintaining Australia's world-leading biosecurity standards, particularly given the potential for avian influenza viruses to affect multiple animal species and disrupt food production.

"Australian farmers are world leaders in biosecurity, not only to

protect our animals and environment, but to ensure if a situation arises, the impact to our food supply chain is minimised," he said.

"It's important to prepare for the worst and hope for the best. Right now, preparedness and vigilance are our strongest tools."

The NFF said it would continue working closely with the Federal Government, animal health authorities and industry organisations to monitor developments and coordinate a national response should further detections occur.

The organisation stressed that early reporting, strong farm biosecurity and ongoing surveillance remain Australia's best defence against the spread of avian influenza and the protection of the nation's livestock industries, wildlife and food security.

$41 Million Aquaculture Investment to Drive Jobs, Innovation and Sustainable Growth Across NSW

By Ian Rogers

The NSW Government has announced a landmark $41 million investment in the state's aquaculture industry, backing 31 projects designed to increase seafood production, create regional jobs and accelerate innovation from Tweed Heads to Eden.

The funding package includes $27 million from the Minns Labor Government through the Regional Development Trust, with successful businesses contributing almost $14 million of their own funding, taking the total investment to $41 million.

The investment follows the launch of the NSW Aquaculture Vision Statement in 2024, which set an ambitious target of doubling the industry's economic output by 2030. Aquaculture currently contributes almost $250 million annually to the NSW economy and supports around 2,200 jobs across coastal and inland communities.

Projects receiving funding focus on modernising aquaculture through new technology, renewable energy, sustainable production systems and innovative methods of recycling industry by-products.

Among the largest grants is $2 million for Australian Bay Lobster Producers at Chinderah in the Tweed Shire to construct a hatchery producing ornamental finfish for domestic and international markets, while also supplying fingerlings

for other aquaculture businesses and supporting the restocking of NSW estuaries.

Another $2 million has been awarded to Venus Shell Systems to expand seaweed processing capacity for high-value skincare, nutrition and medical products, while K&C Fisheries Global will receive almost $1.95 million to establish an inland processing facility that converts invasive European carp into premium aquaculture feed, helping improve waterways while creating valuable commercial products.

The funding also supports significant advances in the oyster industry, with projects aimed at increasing juvenile oyster production, expanding hatchery capacity and replacing traditional farming methods with automated floating infrastructure powered by solar energy.

Armstrong Oysters at Laurieton has secured almost $1.7 million to expand its Sydney Rock Oyster nursery, increasing the supply of juvenile oysters to commercial growers and improving production resilience across the industry.

Environmental sustainability is a major focus of the program, with grants supporting cleanenergy seafood production, renewable power systems, circular economy initiatives and the recovery of plastics, shells and seafood waste for conversion into pet food,

bait and other commercial products.

OceanWatch Australia has been awarded $1.36 million to partner with aquaculture operators and commercial fisheries to recover waste materials currently destined for landfill and transform them into valuable products.

Several Aboriginalowned enterprises are also receiving funding, including Joonga Land and Water Aboriginal Corporation, which will use a $1.48 million grant to improve sea urchin processing, create new food products and convert shell waste into soil enhancement materials.

Projects are spread throughout regional New South Wales, benefiting businesses in the Tweed, Clarence Valley, Port Macquarie-Hastings, Shoalhaven, Eurobodalla, Bega Valley, Nambucca Valley, Lake Macquarie, Narrabri, Tamworth, Armidale, Leeton, Lachlan, Port Stephens and Snowy Valleys local government areas.

Minister for Agriculture and Regional New South Wales Tara Moriarty said the investment would help position NSW as a leader in sustainable seafood production while supporting long-term regional employment.

"This $41 million investment demonstrates the Minns Government's commitment to building a modern, sustainable aquaculture sector and positioning NSW as the leader in quality seafood production and marine

bioproducts," she said.

"This funding program is new to the industry and delivers on our plan to grow this unique sector so we can boost jobs and innovation along our coast and inland waterways now and into the future.

"Our seafood products are amongst the best in the world, and we need to increase production, enhance supply chain efficiency and sustainability, so that our local businesses can take advantage of market demand for quality and low carbon footprint seafood."

Australian Bay Lobster Producers Managing Director Michael Dalton said the funding would strengthen the developing aquaculture precinct at Chinderah.

"The hatchery will grow ornamental finfish to supply the global public aquarium market and position the Tweed Shire as a leader in sustainable marine aquaculture, delivering integrated economic, environmental and social benefits to boost regional prosperity and ecological sustainability," he said.

The investment represents one of the largest commitments to aquaculture in New South Wales and is expected to improve productivity, strengthen supply chains, encourage innovation and support the industry's longterm growth while helping regional communities diversify their economies and create skilled employment opportunities.

Farmers Struggling to Access Mental Health Support as New Data Reveals Growing Crisis

By Ian Rogers

Australian farmers are facing unprecedented mental health pressures while remaining among the least able to access the support they need, according to new research unveiled at Parliament House during a National Farmers' Federation (NFF) and Suicide Prevention Australia parliamentary breakfast.

The findings, drawn from the University of Canberra's Regional Wellbeing Survey, reveal that just 14.7 per cent of farmers reported having good access to mental health services in 2025— less than half the rate of the general Australian population, where 36.6 per cent said support was readily available.

The report paints a concerning picture of mounting psychological distress across farming communities, with researchers warning that limited access to healthcare, repeated natural disasters and rising financial pressures are placing many farming families under unprecedented strain.

Access to basic healthcare is also

significantly lower for farmers, with only 42.5 per cent reporting good access to general practitioners compared with 63.5 per cent of Australians overall.

Researchers said delays in accessing appropriate mental health services often mean problems worsen before help becomes available, while many existing services are not designed to meet the unique needs of rural and agricultural communities.

The survey also highlights a significant deterioration in farmers' mental wellbeing over the past decade.

Before 2020, around one in four farmers reported moderate to high

psychological distress.

Between 2020 and 2025 that figure increased to 35 per cent. At the same time, the proportion of farmers experiencing unhealthily low wellbeing—a recognised indicator of elevated mental health risk—rose from an average of 15 per cent between 2015 and 2020 to 24 per cent during 2024 and 2025. Natural disasters continue to play a major role in the worsening outlook.

Six in ten Australian farmers have experienced two or more major natural hazard events over the past five years, including droughts, floods, bushfires, storms and heatwaves.

The survey found a

direct relationship between repeated disasters and declining mental health.

Among farmers affected by a single natural hazard, 14.6 per cent reported low wellbeing. That figure more than doubled to 33.5 per cent for those who had experienced four or five major natural disasters. Financial pressures are adding further stress to already stretched farming businesses.

Between 2021 and 2025, more than 71 per cent of farms were affected by rising input costs, including fertiliser, chemicals and seed, while 64.1 per cent experienced higher transport costs.

Researchers noted these

figures pre-date the fuel and fertiliser price increases experienced during 2026, suggesting the current financial burden is likely even greater.

National Farmers' Federation Chief Executive Officer Mike Guerin said the figures represented real people and communities facing enormous challenges.

"What key health administrators and decision-makers have heard this morning are not abstract statistics. They are people. They are families. They are communities that are quietly bearing a weight that should not be theirs to carry alone," Mr Guerin said.

He said farmers and regional health providers had consistently called for better coordination rather than disconnected programs operating independently.

Mr Guerin urged the Federal Government to invest $50 million over five years to establish a nationally coordinated approach to farmer mental health.

"What is needed is a national approach, owned by the whole sector, backed by the evidence,

and funded to deliver at the scale the problem demands," he said.

Suicide Prevention

Australia Chief Executive Officer Nieves Murray described the situation as urgent, noting that, on average, one Australian farmer dies by suicide every 10 days—up to twice the rate recorded across the broader working population.

She said rural Australians should not face barriers to support simply because of where they live.

"Access to support should not depend on where you live, yet for many in rural and remote Australia that remains the reality," Ms Murray said.

"The distance between crisis and care is often vast. Reaching help can mean hours of travel, time away from the farm, and limited access to local or regional specialists."

Ms Murray called for a whole-of-government response that recognises the unique challenges facing farming communities and delivers long-term investment in suicide prevention and mental health services across regional Australia.

NFF Calls for End to Murray-Darling Basin Water Buybacks After New Report

By Ian Rogers

The National Farmers' Federation (NFF) has renewed its call for an end to water buybacks, arguing a newly released MurrayDarling Basin Authority (MDBA) report confirms the growing concerns of Basin communities about the social and economic impacts of continued water recovery.

The comments follow the release of the MDBA's What We Heard Report, which summarises feedback gathered during consultation on the future of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan. While the report does not establish new policy, it will help shape the next phase of Basin Plan reform.

NFF Water Committee

Chair Malcolm Holm said the report reinforced concerns that farming communities have been expressing for years, particularly regarding the ongoing use of water buybacks.

"It's clear Basin communities are deeply concerned about buybacks, ongoing uncertainty, and the impacts on regional economies," Mr Holm said.

"Farmers have already given more than their fair share. It is more than enough, more than can be usefully used, more than was necessary, and more than Basin communities should have had to bear."

The NFF argues that with significant volumes of water already recovered under the Basin Plan,

future efforts should concentrate on improving environmental outcomes using existing water holdings rather than purchasing additional entitlements from irrigators.

Mr Holm said attention should now shift towards practical environmental management measures that would deliver stronger ecological outcomes without further reducing agricultural water supplies.

"The conversation cannot continue to centre on acquiring more water. It must be about how we deliver real environmental outcomes with what we have," he said.

"That includes tackling long-standing issues like carp, which continue to undermine river health

and water quality, along with investment in infrastructure and fish passage."

The Federation also expressed concern that agriculture and food production have not received sufficient recognition during discussions about the Basin's future.

Mr Holm said the Murray-Darling Basin remains one of Australia's most productive foodgrowing regions and warned that continued reductions in irrigation water could have broader implications for regional economies and national food security.

"This is one of Australia's most important foodproducing regions. If we don't properly recognise

the role of agriculture, we risk undermining both regional communities and national food security," he said.

He welcomed the report's acknowledgement that the role of agriculture had not been adequately reflected during consultation, saying this should become a stronger focus as Basin Plan reforms progress.

The NFF said it would continue participating in the Basin Plan review process while advocating for a balanced approach that supports both environmental objectives and regional communities.

Mr Holm said the organisation's position remained unchanged.

"We welcome the report's acknowledgement of a missing agricultural

narrative, and that must be addressed in the next phase.

"But our position remains clear: no more buybacks. The focus must be on smarter, balanced Basin management that supports the environment and the communities that depend on it."

The Murray-Darling Basin Plan continues to be one of Australia's most significant water management frameworks, balancing environmental restoration with the economic sustainability of irrigation, agriculture and regional communities across four states and the Australian Capital Territory.

Gardening Tips & Ideas

Backyard Food Security

Growing More Food From Small Spaces

By Jeff Gibbs

With grocery prices continuing to climb, more Northern Rivers families are discovering that one of the best ways to save money is to grow their own food. Whether you have a large backyard, a suburban block, a small courtyard or even a sunny balcony, producing fresh fruit, vegetables and herbs at home has never been more worthwhile.

Backyard food security isn't about becoming completely self-sufficient or replacing every supermarket visit. Instead, it's about producing a reliable supply of fresh, healthy food that supplements the family budget while giving you the satisfaction of harvesting produce only metres from your kitchen.

The Northern Rivers enjoys one of Australia's best climates for home food production. Mild winters, warm summers and generally reliable rainfall mean gardeners can grow something edible throughout most of the year. By making the most of even the smallest spaces, households can enjoy lower grocery bills, fresher ingredients and a more sustainable lifestyle.

Raised Beds Make Gardening Easier

Raised garden beds have become increasingly popular because they solve many of the challenges faced by home gardeners.

Many Northern Rivers properties contain heavy clay soils that become waterlogged after rain or sandy coastal soils that dry out quickly. A raised bed allows gardeners to create ideal growing conditions from the beginning by filling the bed with quality topsoil, compost and organic matter.

The improved drainage encourages stronger root development while the loose soil makes planting and harvesting easier.

Raised beds also warm more quickly during winter,

allowing vegetables to establish faster.

Keeping beds around one metre wide means every plant can be reached without standing on the soil. This prevents compaction, helping roots grow freely while allowing water and nutrients to penetrate more effectively.

Adding a generous layer of mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds and gradually improves soil health as it breaks down.

Make Every Square Metre Count

Limited space should never discourage anyone from growing food. Some of the most productive gardens occupy only a few square metres.

Vertical gardening is an excellent way to increase production without increasing the garden's footprint. Trellises, arches, wire mesh, hanging baskets and wall-mounted planters encourage crops to grow upwards rather than across valuable ground space.

Climbing beans, snow peas, cucumbers, passionfruit and cherry tomatoes all thrive when given vertical support. Besides saving space, vertical growing improves air circulation, making plants easier to maintain while reducing the likelihood of fungal diseases during the region's humid months.

Even fences can become productive growing areas by attaching planter boxes filled with herbs, strawberries or leafy greens.

Herbs Deliver Outstanding Value

Fresh herbs are among the easiest and most economical crops to grow.

Supermarket herbs are often expensive and frequently spoil before they're fully used. A handful of healthy herb plants growing outside the kitchen can provide fresh ingredients for months or even years.

Parsley, basil, coriander,

mint, chives, thyme, oregano and rosemary all perform well in the Northern Rivers climate, although coriander prefers the cooler months while basil thrives through summer.

Most herbs are perfectly suited to pots, making them ideal for renters or anyone with limited garden space. Position them close to the kitchen where they're easy to harvest while preparing meals.

Grow What Your Family Eats

One of the biggest mistakes new gardeners make is growing vegetables they rarely use. Instead, start by looking at your weekly grocery shopping. If your family regularly buys lettuce, tomatoes, silverbeet, spinach, carrots, spring onions, cucumbers or capsicums, these should become your priority crops.

Leafy greens are especially rewarding because many varieties can be harvested continuously. Picking only the outer leaves allows plants to keep producing for several months, providing an almost endless supply of fresh salads and cooking greens.

Fast-growing vegetables such as radishes, Asian greens and rocket can be ready to harvest in as little as four weeks, giving new gardeners quick success and confidence.

Succession Planting Provides Continuous Harvests

Rather than planting everything on one weekend, experienced gardeners stagger their planting throughout the season. Known as succession planting, this simple technique involves sowing small batches of seeds every two or three weeks. Instead of harvesting dozens of lettuces at once, you'll enjoy a steady supply over many months.

The same approach works well with beans, beetroot, carrots, spinach and many

vegetables. Planning your garden this way ensures there's always something growing, something ready to harvest and something ready to plant next.

Healthy Soil Produces Healthy Food

The secret to productive vegetable gardens isn't expensive fertilisers—it's healthy soil.

Adding homemade compost, aged manure and organic matter feeds beneficial microorganisms while improving soil structure and water retention.

Kitchen scraps, coffee grounds, autumn leaves, grass clippings and vegetable peelings can all be transformed into nutrientrich compost rather than ending up in landfill.

Over time, compost creates soil that requires less watering, supports stronger plant growth and naturally resists pests and diseases more effectively.

Earthworms are another valuable partner in the garden, helping aerate the soil while recycling organic matter into valuable nutrients.

Compact Crops For Small Gardens

Modern plant breeding has produced many compact vegetable varieties

specifically designed for patios and smaller gardens.

Bush tomatoes, dwarf beans, mini capsicums and compact cucumbers deliver excellent harvests without sprawling across the yard.

Many fruit trees are also available in dwarf varieties suitable for large containers.

Lemons, limes, mandarins, oranges, figs and even some apple varieties can successfully grow in pots, allowing almost anyone to harvest fresh fruit at home.

Water Smart

Efficient watering becomes increasingly important during dry periods.

Watering early in the morning reduces evaporation while giving plants time to dry before nightfall. Directing water to the base of plants instead of wetting the foliage also reduces disease problems.

Mulch remains one of the simplest water-saving tools available, helping retain soil moisture while reducing temperature fluctuations around plant roots.

Installing rainwater tanks or collecting water in smaller barrels provides an environmentally friendly supply for garden use throughout the year.

More Than Just Saving Money

While reducing grocery bills is a major benefit,

backyard food security offers much more than financial savings.

Homegrown vegetables are harvested at peak freshness, often containing higher nutritional value than produce transported long distances. Gardening also provides regular exercise, reduces stress and encourages children to develop healthy eating habits while learning where food comes from.

Many gardeners also find themselves sharing excess produce with neighbours, creating stronger community connections while reducing food waste.

Every handful of herbs, every basket of tomatoes and every fresh salad picked from the backyard represents money saved, fewer food miles travelled and greater confidence in knowing that fresh food is always close at hand.

With the Northern Rivers climate offering outstanding growing conditions throughout much of the year, there has never been a better time to turn unused corners, patios and backyards into productive food gardens. No matter how small the space, every home has the potential to produce fresh, healthy food and become a little more self-reliant.

PUBLIC NOTICE

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

1. Optus is proposing to upgrade an existing mobile phone base station on Existing Lattice Tower at 2480 Coolamon Scenic Drive, Ocean Shores NSW 2483 (B0322 Mullumbimby).

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, 17 July 2026.

4. For more information, please visit www.rfnsa.com.au/2482001

WANTED

STORE SALE

welcome.

ALSTONVILLE QUOTA CLUB

BALLINA LADIES PROBUS 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

Therapeutic Massage

ALSTONVILLE

NORTHERN RIVERS DAY PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

The next meeting of the Northern Rivers Day

Prostate Cancer Support Group is to be held on Wednesday July 8th 2026 – 10am until 12 noon at the ALSTONVILLE PLATEAU SPORTS CLUB –DEEGAN DRIVE ALSTONVILLE Men previously and newly diagnosed with prostate cancer are urged to join with the group to experience the personal cancer stories told which give a great opportunity for all to share, learn and benefit from each otherPartners and Carers are also most welcome to attend as family are very much involved with the process and treatment of those with this diagnosis Members are also reminded to bring a friend or someone you know who may be in need of support This will again be a morning of quality sharing updates Enquiries phone Bob Corney 0493 075 612 -

CRAWFORD HOUSE MUSEUM

Visit Crawford House Museum, an original farmhouse where you can see many interesting household objects which reflect family life from the beginning of the 20th century to the 1960s. There are also research facilities for information about Ballina Shire, as well as books about local history, including Ian Kirkland’s book about the Booyung and Pearce’s Creek District. If you’re a support worker and you bring a client to the museum, your admission is free. And if you enjoy meeting and greeting visitors to our lovely part of the world, you could join our team of hosts for three hours a month – just email us or drop in to the museum on Fridays if you’re interested. The museum is at 10 Wardell Road Alstonville and is open on Fridays 10am-4pm and Sundays 1pm-4pm or at other times by appointment for groups.

QUILTERS ALSTONVILLE

We are called Plateau Quilters Alstonville we meet the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the Month at the RSL Hall Alstonville from 1pm until 4pm New members would be most welcome. Bonner 66298267

ALSTONVILLE PROBUS CLUB

Alstonville Probus Club meets on the last Thursday of each month at Plateau Sports Club at 10.00 am. This commences with a cupper and chat, with the formal meeting commencing at 10.30 which includes an interesting guest speaker. All visitors are

Meetings are 9.30am1.30pm, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays and 2nd Saturday of each month. Our venue is the Resource Centre at the rear of Crawford House Museum, Alstonville. We welcome embroiderers of all ability levels to meet, share and learn.

THE RETURNED AND SERVICES LEAGUE OF AUSTRALIA NSW Branch

ALSTONVILLE SUBBRANCH

Alstonville RSL sub-Branch will now hold their monthly meetings on the second Wednesday of the month at 11am at the RSL Hall, 13 Bugden Ave (next door to the Alstonville Medical Centre). All ex-Service persons are welcome to attend, and we have a convivial morning tea on completion of the meeting. Alston suppliers and ranch have a ‘Lower Deck Luncheon’ at 1200 each Friday, everyone is welcome, we sit out the back of the Hall, order lunch from local suppliers, and have great conversations with good mates. There is always plenty of support & advice on any issue!

BALLINA

AUSTRALIAN INDEPENDENT RETIREES

The next meeting of Australian Independent Retirees will be held on Friday 3 July at Ballina RSL, 1 Grant Street, Ballina at 10.00am. This will be the General Meeting followed by morning tea, followed by the Annual General Meeting. Every retiree is invited to attend these meetings, and we really need your attendance to make these meetings viable. A new committee will be elected, but please do not use this for an excuse for nonattendance, as we realise not everyone is available to take on positions in the Club. But we do need your presence to continue working as a social club for friendship and fellowship amongst all retirees. Lunch will be held in the RSL Boardwalk restaurant as usual, after the meetings to continue catching up with everyone and continuing with the friendships made. All enquiries to the President, Mrs. Jill Huxley on 6686 8958"

BALLINA COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB

LIVE COUNTRY MUSIC DAYS of the Ballina Country Music Club happen on the first Sunday of every month except January. The July Live Music Day, however, is on the second Sunday, 12 July at Ballina RSL Club, Grant Street, Ballina, starting at 10.00 am. The day is also the Club’s Benefit Day. “The Classics”, one of our popular regular bands, will be playing. Tricia Grey and Brian Elliott are the feature Showcase Artists. There are many regular and some visiting Walk Up Artists. The experienced line dancers demonstrate their skills and others take to the floor dancing however they want! There are great raffle and lucky door prizes, as well as Club members’ and Walk Up Artists’ draws. Come along and enjoy the company and music.

DEMENTIA 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.

SUPPORT GROUP FOR PEOPLE LIVING WITH A DEMENTIA AND THEIR CARERS.

The group, supported by the Dementia Inclusive Ballina Alliance, meets weekly on Wednesdays at the Ballina Aero Club, Lightwing Lane, Ballina (near the airport) from 10:30-12:30pm. The program usually involves gentle exercise then choir singing followed by morning tea and 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. Susan 0405 229 200.

NORTHERN RIVERS YOUNGER ONSET

DEMENTIA CARERS SUPPORT GROUP

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

NINE HOLE LADIES GOLF AT BALLINA

The Nine Hole Ladies Golf Group plays at Ballina Golf Club every Tuesday and Thursday, from 12pm offering an enjoyable and time-efficient way to play a golf competition. The group combines golf with social interaction, making it ideal for busy people who do not have time for a full 18-hole 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.

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. At our July meeting, we welcomed Graeme McGregor as our Guest Speaker. Graeme spoke about his time working with the South Australia National Parks and Wildlife Service on Kangaroo Island. Our July social activity will be a morning tea (at own cost) at the Shelly Beach Café, Ballina on Wednesday 15 July at 10:30am a wonderful opportunity to enjoy good food, great company and conversation. If you would like to learn more about our club or upcoming activities, please contact our President, Jeanette, on 0407 417 470. We would love to hear from you and warmly welcome you along.

CWA BALLINA

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

BALLINA PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB meets on the first Thursday of the month at Northlakes Community Centre, 1 Mulloway Place, Ballina from 6pm to 9pm.We are currently looking for new members and visitors are always welcome. We are a group of enthusiastic photographers who live in and around Ballina. Members share a common interest in photography and have monthly outings to take photos and share images at meetings. Please contact our President Lyn on 0412 758 697

BALLINA MEALS ON WHEELS

Knitting and Crochet for Charity Group run by Ballina Meals on Wheels. Group held Monday mornings in Ballina and open to people who are 65years and older. $5 includes morning tea. Call Kristen on Ph: 0419 679719 for more information.

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A NEW HOBBY???

COME AND JOIN THE HEADLINERS CHORUS

We are an all-female 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.

CASINO

DYRAABA HALL BUS TRIP

The Dyraaba Hall committee will host a bus trip to the Coolangatta Markets and Tweed City on Sunday 9th August. Cost is $30 and includes morning tea. There will also be raffles. Bus departs Dyraaba Hall 7am, Charcoal cnr. 7:20am and Casino Post Office 7:30am. We can also pick up in Lismore. Bookings and enquiries Phone Veronica on 66671101. All profits after expenses will go towards the maintenance of the hall.

Casino / Richmond Valley Blind Citizens Australia Branch Casino /Richmond Valley BCA Branch July meeting is on Monday 6th July2026 at 10am in the Casino Baptist Church Hall corner Canterbury and West streets Casino. This will be a general meeting with branch activities in the hall followed by the AGM.New members are very welcome. Join us for a “Cuppa” at 10am.Free transport is available PH Denise on 0448 014 682

WINDARA

KID'S BINGO on again at WINDARA, Wednesday, 15th July, from 10am to 12am. Great prizes to be won, free lollies, chips and bingo book for each player. Bring your own marker pen for bingo. Plenty of treats available to purchase from the kitchen so Parents and Grandparents bring the kids out, have a coffee, enjoy the nursery and surrounding gardens. Bookings not necessary but for more information contact Windara, 253 Sextonville Road, Casino or phone 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 4

MONDAY R.Baker

D. Armitage & J. Corocher

TUESDAY B.Bennett

M. Benn

WEDNESDAY

G.McLean

J.Connell

THURSDAY

S.Turner

FRIDAY

R.Baker

Richmond Valley Council staff

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 ART GALLERY

148 Barker St. Casino. Open Thursday to Saturday 10am to 3pm, and Sunday 10am to 2pm during exhibitions. Regular exhibitions, workshops, classes during the year. Artists, professional/amateur welcome contact Maree 0439 308620

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 @ 10-11am.

All Welcome 10am Morning Tea Fellowship. Welcome and Chat 10.30am Praise and Worship

CASINO VIEW CLUB

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

CASINO AA MEETING – ID MEETING

is held every Tuesday 12:001:30pm 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 6.00pm for a 6.30pm start. Denise Green 0448014682

LISMORE CASINO NAVAL ASSOCIATION

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

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

CORAKI

Coraki Line dance

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

CLARENCE VALLEY

CLARENCE VALLEY PROBUS CLUBS

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

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

ELTHAM

ELTHAM MASONIC LODGE

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

EVANS HEAD

EVANS HEAD SEAGULLS CRAFT & QUILTERS GROUP

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

THE ROTARY CLUB OF EVANS HEAD

Markets held on the Last Saturday of the month held at Cribb Reserve opposite Illawong Hotel at 8am1pm. 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 ALANON FAMILY GROUP

Our meetings are held weekly on Tuesdays at 12md - 1.30pm at the Salvation Army Hall, 91-93 Oliver Street, Grafton. Meetings are always confidential. The Al-Anon Family Groups are a fellowship of relatives and friends of Alcoholics who share their experience, strength, and hope in order to solve their common problems. We believe alcoholism is a family illness and that changed attitudes can aid recovery. Al-Anon is not allied with any sect, denomination, political entity, organization, or institution; does not engage in any controversy neither endorses nor opposes any cause. There are no dues for membership. Al-Anon is self-supporting through its own voluntary contributions. Al-Anon has but one purpose: to help families of alcoholics. We do this by practicing the Twelve Steps, by welcoming and giving comfort to families and friends of alcoholics and by giving understanding

and encouragement to the alcoholic. For further information see our website or to talk to a member in confidence call 1300 252 666

GRAFTON’S MIGHTY CLARENCE

TOASTMASTERS CLUB

Perhaps it’s time to find out what it’s all about! If you would like to improve your communication and leadership skills. Make new friends and have fun, you are warmly invited to attend the Mighty Clarence Toastmasters Club. We meet on the 1st & 3rd Wednesday evening of each month. You may attend either from the comfort of your own home via zoom or join us in person at the Joan Muir Community Centre: 194 Turf Street, Grafton.

GRAFTON SENIORS BE FIT EXERCISE CLASSES

Every Friday at the Uniting Church, Prince Street. Join us for gentle exercises designed for Seniors. We meet at 10.30a.m. for a cuppa and a chat with the exercises commencing at 11. All equipment is provided and there is no cost to the participants. Further information can be obtained from Chris 0400490691 or Dot on 66423248 or 0477213017

GRAFTON VIEW CLUB

Grafton VIEW Club meets on the 4th Tuesday each month at Grafton District Services Club, Mary Street, commencing at 10.30am. Please come along & enjoy yourself with a tasty meal, motivated guest speaker & at the same time you will help disadvantaged children.Please phone Helen at 6642 3867 for catering purposes no later than the Friday before the meeting. As well, a social outing is held each month. You are warmly invited to come along, have some fun & you will be helping others as well. See you there!

CLARENCE RIVER HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Clarence River Historical Society Schaeffer House Museum.

190 Fitzroy Street Grafton. 2460. Phone 0266425212.We are welcoming many visitors through the museum, often from interstate and on bus trips, not only to see our wonderful collection of artefacts gathered over 90 years but also to research family history and/or places of interest in the Valley. Research Room hours are from 9 to 3 Tuesday to Thursday and Museum hours are from1 to 4 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Other times can be arranged. Admission is $6 for adults and $3 for children. If you would like to become a member of our Society and receive our interesting newsletters contact the Secretary, Robyn. Membership fees are $27 yearly.

HASTINGS POINT

HASTINGS POINT COMMUNITY CHOIR

Do you enjoy singing. Our repertoire covers a variety of music styles – both unison and part singing We would love you to join us. New members needed. You will be made most welcome When: Tuesday Evenings from 7pm – 8.30pm Where: Tricare Residential Village Community Room Tweed Coast Road, next to Shell Petrol Station. For more information, contact Jean Berry 0414794380

PROBUS CLUB OF HASTINGS POINT The Probus Club of Hastings Point Tweed Coast meets at Hastings Point Tricare resident's lounge, on 3rd Tuesday each month, commencing with a guest speaker at 10am. Retirees and seniors are welcome to join this happy social group. Phone the Probus president Di Mills 044 732 5387 for more information.

KINGSCLIFF

KINGSCLIFF 500 CARD CLUB

Kingscliff 500 Card Club. Monday and Wednesday afternoons 1pm to 4pm Cudgen Surf Club New players WELCOME Contact: GARY 0499869992

KINGSCLIFF PROBUS CLUB

First Wednesday of the month, 10am to 12 noon in the function room of Kingscliff Bowls Club. We have an interesting guest speaker each month plus bus trips to various points on the map each third Wednesday of the month. Retirees and seniors are most welcome to join us in this happy social group.

Ph Marlene 0428323736

KYOGLE

KYOGLE LINE DANCE

Line Dance Classes Mondays 7pm Beginners bottom pub Tuesdays 5pm improvers Bowling Club Ph 0418264489

BORDER RANGES RSL DAY CLUB

The Kyogle Border Ranges RSL Day Club meets each Monday in the Kyogle Seniors Centre, 3 Bloore St, Kyogle, from 10am to 2pm.Cost $10, includes Morning Tea and Lunch. We welcome Volunteers and Members, if you are in need of some Company, you are welcome to attend. Come along and have some fun. Contact Oriel 0427245324.

KYOGLE PROGRESS ASSOCIATION

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 or Robbie 04082 78685

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

ROTARY CLUB OF SUMMERLAND SUNRISE Interested in contributing to community? Local and international?The Rotary Club of Summerland Sunrise meets each Friday at 7am for breakfast at La Baracca, Lismore. You are most welcome to join us. Ph: 0475 423567

Lismore Parkinsonism Support Group for all Parkinson related disorders. We meet every third Friday of the month. Next group Meeting is 17th of July 2026 Commences at 10am to 12pm at the South Lismore Bowls Club, 25 Wilson Street South Lismore. New members always welcomed. Any inquiries contact Marie 0448871290

LISMORE LINE DANCE

Line Dance Classes Thursday 6pm hall Beginners 7pm improver class Presbyterian Hall Ph 0418264489

AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS Al-Anon offers help and hope for family and friends of alcoholics. If someone in your family has a drinking problem, you can see what it's doing to them. But can you see what it's doing to YOU? For information and help call 1300 ALANON (1300 252 666). Al-Anon Family Groups meet regularly across Australia and online, see Website: Regular weekly meetings:MONDAY11:00am - 12.30 pm ILUKA - CWA Hall (behind the Iluka Museum), 2 Charles St. TUESDAY 12.00 - 1.30 pm GRAFTON - Hall 2, Salvation Army, 91-93 Oliver St. 1:002.30 pm LISMORE "The Studio", adjacent to 14 Pleasant St, Goonellabah & ZOOM ID 252 666 0000 (no password) (enter at rear of car park, cnr Pleasant & Fischer Sts)WEDNESDAY 6.30 - 8:00 pm BALLINA – Anglican Church, 24 Burnet St & ZOOM ID 252 666 0000 (no password) 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 SHED

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 President: Pul Hinchey 0480516590

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 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-fulnessbased 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 Plans are being made to celebrate the centenary of Mullumbimby CWA branch, which was formed in 1926. More information to come, as plans are finalised. For information on Mullumbimby CWA, contact branch secretary Jenny Barlow on 6684 7282.

MURWILLUMBAH

The Northern Rivers Collectors Club Inc in conjunction with the Rotary Club of Mt Warning AM(Murwillumbah) are holding an Antiques & Collectables Exhibition & Trading Fair @ the Murwillumbah Civic Centre Auditorium on Sunday 9th August from 8.30am to 2.30pm. Adults $6 Children $1.There will be Antiques, Vintage, Retro & Modern collectables for sale such as, glassware, China, tools, fishing items, garagenalia, old bottles & much more. The Rotary club will be running a sausage sizzle & refreshment. There will be a valuer attending. Proceeds donated to Tweed Palliative Support Inc. Details phone Trevor 0439 779577

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 1.303.30pm. 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 extracurricular 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

CRU3A CHRISTMAS IN AUGUST

Celebrate an early Christmas a little differently this year and join us for Christmas in August. Save the date on your calendar for the Yamba Bowling Club on Saturday 8th August. It’s a great chance to meet other members, share laughter, and enjoy festive fun without the December rush. Bring your friends, your cheer, and wear your best Christmas outfit. More details later. If you have any skills that you would like to share that would be interesting for over 50s, or would like to run a short course, get in touch with CRU3A. We are always looking for new ideas. Recently, the movie group enjoyed a classic movie, There’s No Business Like Show Business, with Ethel Merman and Donald O‘Connor.It was not a full “dress up night”, but four members won choc top vouchers for their efforts.

YAMBA LIONS CLUB

Yamba Lions Club’s meetings are held 2nd & 4th Thursdays of month at Yamba Bowling Club, commencing at 7pm for 7.30pm. For further information, please contact the Secretary Peter 0417546097. Social outings also held at various time and visitors and new members’ welcome.

ALL NORTHERN RIVERS

NORTHERN RIVERS DAY PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

The next meeting of the Northern Rivers Day Prostate Cancer Support Group is to be held on Wednesday July 8th 2026 – 10am until 12 noon at the ALSTONVILLE PLATEAU SPORTS CLUB –DEEGAN DRIVE ALSTONVILLE Men previously and newly diagnosed with prostate cancer are urged to join with the group to experience the personal cancer stories told which give a great opportunity for all to share, learn and benefit from each otherPartners and Carers are also most welcome to attend as family are very much involved with the process and treatment of those with this diagnosis Members are also reminded to bring a friend or someone you know who may be in need of support This will again be a morning of quality sharing updates Enquiries phone Bob Corney 0493 075 612 -

PTSD PEER SUPPORT

Free • Trauma-Informed • 365 Days a Year PTSD Peer Support meet-ups offer a gentle, recovery-focused space to connect with others who understand. Daily online meetups run every morning at 7am (NSW) for one hour and are open to anyone living with PTSD. FREE – NO FEE to join Trauma Informed with Peer-led Moderator No pressure to share Recovery focused – with wellbeing information Safe, supportive, we don’t talk about the trauma event. Accessible for rural and remote communities When it comes to PTSD – “if you’ve got it, we get it” Whether you join to listen or take part in the discussion, you’ll be welcomed. For more information: PH 0478022022

NORTHERN RIVES MUSTANGS

If you own a Ford Mustang and would like to do monthly drives with other members for more information, contact John 0404 884 192

NRCF WOMEN’S GIVING CIRCLE

The Northern Rivers Community Foundation (NRFC) is inviting Northern Rivers women to play an active role in empowering vulnerable women and girls in our region. The newly formed NRFC’s Women’s Giving Circle brings Northern Rivers women together to achieve equality and human rights for women and girls in our region and enable them to realize their full potential. Ph: 0499862886

The NORTHERN RIVERS HASH HOUSE

HARRIERS is a nonprofit community group that is part of a worldwide organization. The Hash House Harriers meet every Monday at 6pm for a run/walk from various locations around Lismore, Alstonville, and Ballina. The run/walk lasts for approximately an hour, followed by friendship, banter and grub. We are very friendly and welcome new members.

NORTHERN RIVERS NAVAL & MARINERS ASSOCIATION

This association was formed to attract veterans for companionship, wellbeing and to supply advocacy to veterans. We hold an informal gathering every Friday, 2.30pm at Ballina Angling Club (families are welcome). Ph: Allan Watt: 0402 749 582

ALL AREAS

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS If you’re looking for help to stop drinking, you can reach out to Alcoholics Anonymous 24 hours a day. Our phone line is always answered by someone who’s been where you are – an alcoholic in recovery. We understand the challengers, and we know we’re the right people to help you. You can call AA anytime on 1300 22 22 22

WEATHER

FORECAST

Warnings

See www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings

Northern Rivers District:

Mostly sunny. The chance of morning fog. Slight chance of a shower near the Queensland border. Light winds becoming northeasterly 15 to 20 km/h during the afternoon then becoming light during the evening.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog inland. Slight chance of a shower. Light winds.

Northern Tablelands District:

Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog. Slight chance of a shower. Winds northwest to northeasterly 20 to 30 km/h. Thursday. Cloudy. The chance of morning fog in the north. Very high chance of showers on and west of the ranges, medium chance elsewhere. Winds northwesterly 25 to 35 km/h.

New South Wales:

Widespread showers or rain and possible storms across much of the state, isolated in the north east. Moderate to locally heavy rainfall totals possible through inland areas. Patchy morning fog in the east. Daytime temperatures above average. Northeast to northwesterly winds, fresh to strong on the ranges and coastal fringe. Damaging winds possible on the Alps.

Thursday. Scattered showers on the ranges and adjacent slopes, tending isolated elsewhere across the state. Snow showers on the southern ranges. Patchy morning fog in the northeast. Daytime temperatures above average. Northeast to northwesterly winds tending fresh to strong along the coastal fringe, on the ranges and in the far west. Damaging winds possible on the Alps.

Byron Coast:

Winds: Northerly about 10 knots increasing to 15 to 20 knots during the day. Seas: Below 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres south of Cape Byron during the evening. Swell: Southeasterly around 1 metre. Weather: Mostly sunny.

Coffs Coast:

Winds: Northerly 15 to 25 knots. Seas: 1 to 1.5 metres, increasing to 1 to 2 metres during the afternoon or evening. Swell: Southeasterly around 1 metre. Weather: Mostly sunny.

Gold Coast Waters: Winds: North to northeasterly below 10 knots increasing to 10 to 15 knots in the afternoon. Seas: Below 1 metre. Swell: Southeast around 1 metre. Weather: Mostly sunny.

Australian Junior Surf Team Chasing Historic World Title Hat-Trick

Australian Irukandjis Named for 2026 ISA World Junior Surfing Championships

By Jeff Gibbs

Australia's next generation of surfing stars is preparing to defend its world crown after Surfing Australia announced the 12-member Irukandjis team for the 2026 ISA World Junior Surfing Championships in El Salvador.

The championships will be held from September 4 to 13, with Australia aiming to secure an unprecedented third consecutive team gold medal after winning the past two world titles.

Leading the squad is defending ISA Under-16 World Champion Ocean Lancaster from Merewether, who returns alongside 2025 bronze medallists Caden Francis from Coolangatta and Lucy Darragh from Gerringong.

The team was selected based on performances atthe 2025 Australian Junior Surfing Titles, Australian Junior Series rankings and wildcard selections, bringing together Australia's top emerging surfers.

all earning places in the

Surfing Australia's Head

BALLINA NINE HOLE GOLF

On Tuesday, the sun was shining and a full field took to the course, including several new players. The growing popularity of the nine-hole competition has seen requests for additional tee times. Robyn Mace led the field with 17 points. A countback decided second place, with Susan Frazier finishing runner-up on 17 points, while Cathy Munro was third with 16 points. Nearest the Pin in Division 1 was not claimed, while Susan Frazier won the Division 2 prize.

Unfortunately, Thursday's competition

was cancelled due to poor weather

CHERRY STREET CROQUET CLUB

SPORTS RESULTS

Competition remained strong across all disciplines at Cherry Street Croquet Club, with members enjoying another busy week of play.

In Association Croquet, P. Waters defeated G. Drew 14-5, while S. Hume recorded a 12-10 victory over B. Hardy. M. Gidding produced the biggest winning margin of the round, defeating L. Sampson 26-9.

Ricochet Croquet featured several closely contested matches. G.

Kerr and N. Barnes edged out P. Scott and Bev Bill 10-8, while J. Doust and N. Watts combined well to defeat R. Poynting and Brenton Bill 14-9. M. Field overcame M. Russell 19-13, D. Jones defeated H. Young 10-8, and G. Kerr teamed with D. Scott to record an 18-11 win over P. Waters and J. Hannigan. Congratulations also go to the winners of the 2026 Northern Rivers Croquet Association Golf Croquet Championships. Individual champions were Jim Hannigan, Mike Clever, Denis Cummings, Barbara Barrett, Ellen McGirr, Werner Borkhardt and

Dennise Simmons. The prestigious Champion Club title was claimed by Byron Bay following another outstanding championship performance.

Cherry Street Croquet Club welcomes new players of all ages and abilities. Play is available from Tuesday to Sunday, 9am to 4pm, at the corner of Moon Street and Bentinck Street, Ballina. New members and visitors are always welcome.

Coraki Veterans Return to the Fairways After Weather Delay

After weeks of weather interruptions, Coraki Veterans Golfers were

of Pathway Programs, Luke Macdonald, said the squad combined proven performers with exciting new talent.

"As 2024 and 2025 world champions, we know the target on our back is bigger than ever, and this team is ready for that challenge," he said.

The team will attend a preparation camp at the Surfing Australia Hyundai High Performance Centre before travelling to El Salvador, where athletes will prepare for the challenging waves at La Bocana and El Sunzal.

Australia remains the most successful nation in ISA World Junior Surfing Championship history, producing numerous world champions and future World Surf League stars through the prestigious event.

With experienced medal winners and a talented group of newcomers, the Irukandjis will be aiming to continue Australia's remarkable dominance on the world stage.

finally able to return to the course last week, with 46 players contesting an 18-hole Single Stableford competition.

Despite favourable conditions compared to recent weeks, golfers found the course playing long and challenging, making for a competitive day's play.

D. Bullock produced the best score of the day to claim the winner's honours, finishing ahead of K. Osborne in second place and L. Bonner in third.

L. Newton was awarded the free game voucher. Chicken and ball winners were G. Seymore, A. Smith, D. Knox, T. McBurney,

S. Dawson, S. McDonough, T. Crandell and P. Brophy. Nearest the Pin honours went to A. Parr on the 3rd and 12th holes, while A. Smith claimed the prizes on the 6th and 15th.

Attention now turns to this Thursday's July Monthly Medal, which will be played with a shotgun start at 8.30am. Players are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy a cuppa and a chat before tee-off.

As always, until next week—good golfing!

Max

By The Northern Rivers Sports News Desk

Ghosts claw way to win over Panthers

By Tim Howard

The last-placed Grafton Ghosts have produced the upset of the season, storming back from 16-0 down to snatch a dramatic last-minute victory over competition leaders Sawtell.

It was a remarkable turnaround after the Ghosts looked clueless in attack against a resolute Panthers defence for the opening 55 minutes.

Grafton dominated possession and repeatedly hammered the Sawtell line, but were hauled down less than a metre short on several occasions during the first half.

By contrast, the Panthers had just two genuine attacking raids and scored from both.

The Panthers’ opening try was a gem, with halfback Mikaere Beattie poking a deft kick across field for centre Tully O’Rourke, who stepped back inside the defence to score about 10 metres to the right of the posts. Beattie added the extras.

A rash of early penalties nearly cost the Ghosts more points, but some determined defence from the home pack kept Sawtell at bay.

Despite enjoying the lion’s share of possession, the Ghosts simply could not crack the Panthers’ defence. Kicks went too long, players were held up over the line, tackled centimetres short, or denied by forward pass rulings.

It seemed the Ghosts simply couldn’t find a way through.

Then, completely against the run of play, Sawtell struck again inside the final five minutes of the half.

Beattie launched a towering bomb that came down on the Ghosts’ tryline and winger Kalani Morris soared above his opposite number to pluck the ball from the air and score.

The visitors led 10-0 at the break.

Little changed during the opening 10 minutes of the second half as the Ghosts continued to dominate possession without troubling the scoreboard.

Instead it was Sawtell that struck again.

Jumping into dummy-half a few metres out, hooker Tyke Kemp punished some scrappy defence after Lewis Cooper rushed out of the line. Spotting the gap behind the defender, Kemp darted through to score.

Beattie converted for a 16-0 lead.

Frustrated Ghosts supporters grew increasingly vocal as more attacking chances went

begging.

The turning point came with the introduction of replacement hooker Zane Farrell.

His speed and deception around the play-the-ball began creating space against a Panthers defence that had spent most of the afternoon tackling.

With 25 minutes remaining, the Ghosts finally broke through, although it took a miracle.

Attacking down the left on the last tackle, Farrell fired a pass to fullback Brandon Williams, who sent skipper Cooper Woods charging at the line. Defenders swarmed Woods a metre short, but somehow he managed to flick out a pass that winger Rhys Hambly grabbed before diving over in the corner.

Woods then produced another piece of magic, curling the sideline conversion through the uprights to reduce the

margin to 16-6.

The Ghosts continued to pile on the pressure and, with the Panthers beginning to tire, Farrell spotted another opportunity.

He delivered a beautifully weighted pass to replacement forward Thistle, who burst outside his defender from 10 metres out and crashed over beside the posts.

Handling errors continued to plague Sawtell, handing possession back to the Ghosts and, with only minutes remaining, they finally capitalised.

Halfback Rhys Davis took on the tiring defence with a sharp show-and-go. He was dragged down, but carried enough momentum to reach out and score the equaliser.

Woods calmly slotted the conversion to give the Ghosts an unlikely 18-16 lead.

There was still one final

twist.

Sawtell’s kick-off was spilled by normally reliable winger Jay Olsen, handing the Panthers one last chance to steal victory.

But Olsen’s teammates rose to the occasion, producing some desperate defence that forced a knock-on just two tackles later with only 35 seconds remaining.

It completed a remarkable comeback for the Ghosts

and, coming off last weekend’s local derby win over South Grafton, has breathed fresh life into their season.

By contrast, the Rebels have slipped to the bottom of the ladder after Saturday’s 36-24 loss to premiers Nambucca. Next weekend South Grafton host Sawtell, while the Ghosts travel to Nambucca to take on the Roosters.

2026 AUSTRALIAN ISA WORLD JUNIOR TEAM ANNOUNCED!