The Northern Rivers Times News Edition 313

CSIRO report: ‘most comprehensive flood mitigation study ever undertaken in Australia’

By Samantha Elley

It is the most comprehensive report on flood mitigation ever done Australia-wide and has been four years in the making since the 2022 floods on the Northern Rivers.

The CSIRO report was released last week and provides indepth information on how dry holding ponds or detention basins could be the solution to reducing the impact of future floods when they occur.

Many in the community, however, are concerned the report could end up as a dust collector on a bureaucrat’s bookshelf if the next step after its release is not undertaken.

“It is impossible for flood mitigation to be implemented in our region unless you have accurate, reliable, trustworthy data that you can make decisions on,” said Our Future Northern Rivers spokesperson Richard Trevan.

Our Future Northern Rivers started as a flood review group after the 2017 flood and Mr Trevan said a catchment wide solution was needed.

“This is the first time it has been done,” he said.

“It is a ground-breaking piece of science and now the decision makers are in a position to confidently move forward whereas for previous generations that was not the case.”

Mr Trevan said the Northern Rivers is the most

flood-impacted region in Australia.

“Floods remain the most deadly and expensive disaster in our nation,” he said.

“This project will clarify that we now have the evidence to make a decision.

“What is missing is the ability to take that evidence and transform it into implementation.”

He said he was pleased to hear the state government will commit $3 million to the next step.

However, for the project to be implemented properly

Mr Trevan said the federal government needs to step in.

“This issue of 97% of funding that has been dedicated to reparations and only 3% to mitigation,

that has to change,” he said.

“If they do not do this next step properly at federal level we will remain at status quo.”

Federal member for Page, Kevin Hogan also calls on the state and federal Labor governments to act on the recommendations from the CSIRO report.

“It’s not IF we have another flood in our region, it’s WHEN,” he said.

“When we reduce flood risk, businesses invest, insurance becomes affordable again and families choose to stay and build their futures here.”

State member for Clarence, Richie Williamson is calling for urgent action to ensure the findings from the CSIRO report are translated into real outcomes for

communities.

"This is arguably the most comprehensive flood mitigation study ever undertaken in Australia and certainly the most significant piece of work our region has seen since the devastating 2022 floods," Mr Williamson said.

"For the first time, we have sophisticated, catchment-wide modelling backed by world-class science demonstrating that strategically located flood mitigation infrastructure has the potential to substantially reduce flood levels, flood depths and flood inundation across the Richmond River catchment.

"The report confirms that major floods cannot be prevented, but importantly

it shows their impacts can be significantly reduced through carefully planned flood mitigation measures."

Graham Askey has lived through many floods in Lismore and has also been involved with community groups involved with flood mitigation.

“If the detention basins had been in (in the 2022 flood) and two metres had been taken off that flood, it would not have come up to my window sills,” he said.

“It would have been a metre under the floor and the same goes for nearly every raised house in Lismore.

“A super major flood would (have been) reduced to a major flood.”

Highlights from the CSIRO report

• A number of detention dams to be located at strategic points throughout the Northern Rivers to be temporary storages for flood water then released when the flood peak has passed so river flow is not impeded.

• The opening to the Pacific Ocean at Boundary Creek would be a modified flow path that allows floodwaters to discharge to the ocean during flood conditions, thereby reducing downstream flood impacts along the Richmond River.

• The Tuckombil upgrade would see the replacement of the fixed-height barrage with pressure gates.

You can read the full CSIRO report at www. nema.gov.au.

New Road Work Speed Rules Begin

By Jeff Gibbs

Motorists travelling through the Northern Rivers should experience fewer unnecessary delays following the introduction of new NSW road work speed limit rules that came into effect on 1 July. The changes require temporary speed limits at road work sites to be removed outside construction hours whenever it is safe to do so, while ensuring reduced limits remain in place where hazards continue to exist.

Lismore MP Janelle Saffin said the reform would be welcomed across the region, where flood recovery projects have left many roads under repair.

"Our entire area could be called a construction zone with the large number of

roads under repair due to flood damage," Ms Saffin said.

She said the new approach was a practical change that recognised motorists' frustrations when reduced speed limits remained in place despite no work being underway.

The updated Traffic Control at Work Sites (TCAWS) Standard, introduced by Transport for NSW, now requires contractors to assess road work zones outside working hours and remove temporary speed restrictions where conditions allow. However, lower limits will remain where changed road conditions, barriers, lane closures or other safety risks are still present.

Ms Saffin reminded motorists that drivers must continue to obey all posted

speed limits and exercise caution when travelling through construction zones.

"Of course, you still have to use judgement and care based on the state of the road," she said. The reform delivers on an election commitment by the NSW Government and aims to improve traffic flow while maintaining safety for motorists, pedestrians and road workers as major road reconstruction projects continue across regional New South Wales.

Lismore to Host 2026 NSW Open Golf Qualifier as Top Players Tee Off in July

By Robert Heyward

Lismore is set to welcome some of Australia's emerging professional golfers later this month, with the Lismore Workers Golf Club once again selected to host a qualifying event for the prestigious 2026 Ford NSW Open Championship.

The Ford NSW Open Regional Qualifying Event will be held from Sunday, July 26 to Tuesday, July 28, bringing professional golfers, officials and visitors to the Northern Rivers for three days of competition.

The tournament will begin with a Pro-Am on Sunday before two rounds of championship qualifying on Monday and Tuesday, with players competing for a place in one of New South Wales' premier professional golf events.

The Lismore qualifier forms part of the statewide

Ford NSW Open Regional Qualifying Series, which provides golfers with the opportunity to earn a coveted place in the 2026 Ford NSW Open Championship, to be played at The Vintage Golf Club in the Hunter Valley from November 12 to 15.

Each qualifying tournament offers a $50,000 prize pool, while the top three non-exempt finishers secure direct entry

into the NSW Open later this year.

Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg said the return of the event reinforced the city's growing reputation as a destination for major regional sporting competitions.

He said attracting highprofile sporting events generated important economic benefits for the region by encouraging visitors to stay in local

Tournaments Nicole Martin said Lismore had become an important stop on the Regional Qualifying Series.

She described Lismore Workers Golf Club as an outstanding venue and said the Northern Rivers community had consistently provided strong support for the event.

establish a positive culture focused on presenting the course at its best for competitors.

accommodation, dine at local businesses and experience everything the Northern Rivers has to offer.

Mayor Krieg also praised the efforts of the Lismore Workers Golf Club, acknowledging the work of staff and volunteers who continue to prepare the course to a professional standard capable of hosting elite competition.

Golf NSW Manager of

Ms Martin said the regional qualifying tournaments created genuine opportunities for golfers to earn a place in the NSW Open while also delivering economic benefits and increased tourism to host communities.

Director and Head Professional at Lismore Workers Golf Club, Luke Ryan, said the club was proud to once again welcome the tournament and showcase the quality of golf available in the region. He credited recently appointed Greenkeeping Superintendent Dave Hobday with helping

Mr Ryan also highlighted the club's commitment to developing junior golf, saying the tournament would provide young local players with the opportunity to watch professional golfers compete at close range and inspire the next generation of talent.

The 2026 Ford NSW Open Regional Qualifying Series also includes events at Teven, Coffs Harbour, South West Rocks, Catalina and Queanbeyan, with the best-performing golfers progressing to the championship in the Hunter Valley.

Lismore City Council is supporting the event alongside Golf NSW and the NSW Government through Destination NSW, with additional event information expected to be released throughout July.

Bird flu reaches NSW coast, residents urged to take care

By Tim Howard

The discovery of the world’s most destructive strain of bird flu on the NSW coast has prompted authorities to urge Northern Rivers residents not to touch sick or dead birds and to report them immediately as Australia steps up efforts to prevent the virus spreading into native wildlife and poultry.

A giant petrel found near Hawks Nest, about 300 kilometres south of the Clarence Valley, has tested positive to the highly pathogenic H5N1 strain of avian influenza, the first confirmed case on Australia’s east coast.

While authorities stress there is no evidence the virus has spread into commercial poultry farms or backyard chicken flocks, the detection has heightened surveillance as scientists monitor the movements of migratory seabirds that travel through waters off the NSW coastline.

Unlike previous strains of bird flu detected in

by which the disease could enter the country.

Those seabirds spend part of the year in waters off Australia’s east coast, bringing the issue much closer to home for communities along the Northern Rivers and Mid North Coast.

Authorities say the risk to the general public remains low, but they are urging anyone who finds a sick or dead bird not to touch it.

Instead, people should keep children and pets away from the bird, note its location and report it to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.

may be encountered.

The disease also poses a significant threat to Australia’s poultry industry and to the thousands of households that keep backyard chickens.

Once highly pathogenic H5N1 infects a poultry flock it can spread rapidly.

Birds may become lethargic, stop eating, develop swollen heads and respiratory problems or show neurological signs before dying. Because the virus is so contagious and there is no practical treatment, infected flocks are generally destroyed to prevent further spread.

group to track the movements of migratory seabirds and identify where infected birds are most likely to interact with native wildlife and domestic poultry.

The discovery at Hawks Nest has also heightened concern among wildlife experts because Australia’s seabirds have had no previous exposure to H5N1 and there are fears some species could be particularly vulnerable if the virus becomes established in wild bird populations.

Australia, H5N1 has swept across Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas over the past few years, causing one of the largest wildlife disease outbreaks ever recorded.

The virus has infected hundreds of bird species and dozens of mammal species, including seals, sea lions and foxes, and has resulted in the destruction of more than 140 million

poultry worldwide as countries attempted to contain outbreaks.

Scientists had expected the virus would most likely reach Australia via migratory shorebirds travelling south from Asia.

Instead, it arrived with giant petrels and a brown skua migrating north from subantarctic waters, revealing a second pathway

Birds infected with H5N1 may appear weak or unable to fly, have difficulty breathing, stagger or display neurological symptoms such as twisting of the head or neck. In many cases, however, infected birds die suddenly with few obvious signs.

The warning is particularly important for people who regularly use beaches, estuaries and coastal national parks, where migratory seabirds

Commercial poultry producers have strengthened biosecurity measures to reduce contact between domestic birds and wild birds, while authorities are encouraging backyard poultry owners to protect feed and water from contamination and report any sudden illness or unexplained deaths among their birds.

Australia’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr Beth Cookson, has established an expert wildlife advisory

For now, authorities are emphasising that the detection of a single infected bird does not mean the virus is circulating widely in NSW. However, they say public vigilance will play an important role in helping detect any further cases before they spread.

Anyone who encounters a sick or dead bird is urged to leave it alone, keep others away and report it immediately rather than attempting to rescue or dispose of it.

Circus Spectacular Heads to Murwillumbah

Thrills, laughter and spectacular family entertainment are heading to Murwillumbah as Ashton's The Great Australian Circus rolls into town with an all-new production packed with world-class acts and breathtaking performances.

The famous red and white big top will be erected at Murwillumbah Showground from 17 to 26

July, bringing 10 days of high-energy entertainment to Northern Rivers audiences.

This year's show features a host of exciting new attractions, including an astonishing strong woman, breathtaking aerial artistry, daring balancing acts, comedy favourites and a unique deconstructed bicycle performance never before seen in the region.

Established in 1850, the Ashton family circus has delighted Australians for more than 175 years. Now led by sixth-generation performer and Managing Director Chantel AshtonRodriguez, the circus continues to combine its rich history with fresh, contemporary performances.

Ms Ashton-Rodriguez said every season

was about creating unforgettable memories for families.

"We're always introducing exciting new acts, and this year we're bringing performances to the Northern Rivers that audiences haven't seen before," she said.

"Seeing children and parents laughing together under the big top is what

makes all the hard work worthwhile."

Moving from town to town each week, the travelling circus is a remarkable operation, transporting performers, animals, equipment and staff across Australia while continuing a family tradition that has survived for generations.

With tickets starting from

just $15, the production offers an affordable school holiday outing for families looking for something different.

Ashton's The Great Australian Circus will perform at Murwillumbah Showground from 17 to 26 July, with tickets available online through Ashton Entertainment.

Record Crowds Make LisAmore! Festival the Biggest Yet

By Jeff Gibbs

The aroma of authentic Italian cuisine, the sounds of live music and the warmth of community spirit filled the Lismore Showgrounds on Sunday as thousands gathered for what organisers say was the biggest and most successful LisAmore!

Italian Festival in the event's history.

With perfect winter sunshine providing an ideal backdrop, early estimates suggest more than 8,000 people attended the 2026 festival, transforming the show's new home into a vibrant celebration of Italian culture, food and family traditions.

Visitors travelled from across the Northern Rivers and beyond to sample traditional Italian dishes, browse market stalls, enjoy live entertainment and take part in a day that celebrated the rich contribution of the Italian community to the region.

The move to the Lismore Showgrounds proved to be a winning decision, providing the extra space needed to accommodate the festival's growing popularity while allowing more attractions, activities and entertainment than ever before.

Lismore Friendship Festival Inc President Gianpiero Battista said the overwhelming community support exceeded expectations.

"What we witnessed was

simply incredible," Mr Battista said.

"The atmosphere was fantastic from the moment the gates opened, and seeing thousands of people enjoying everything LisAmore has to offer was something our committee

will never forget."

Throughout the day, crowds packed the grounds to watch performances by Domenico and the Latin Mafia and Lisa Genovese, while families enjoyed children's activities, the ever-popular salami wheel raffles and spirited spaghetti-eating competitions that have become festival favourites.

Beyond the food and entertainment, Mr Battista said the festival remained focused on bringing people together through culture, hospitality and shared experiences.

"LisAmore is about sharing our culture through food, music and hospitality, but it's also about bringing people together," he said.

"Seeing families, friends and visitors enjoying the day together is exactly what this festival is all about."

He also paid tribute to the volunteers,

sponsors, entertainers and stallholders whose dedication helped deliver another successful event.

"I'd like to sincerely thank our volunteers, sponsors, stallholders, entertainers and everyone who came along to support the festival. Without them, an event like this simply wouldn't happen."

The success of this year's festival reinforces LisAmore!'s growing reputation as one of the Northern Rivers' premier multicultural events, attracting visitors from across New South Wales while showcasing Lismore as a welcoming destination for major community celebrations.

If attendance figures are confirmed, the 2026 event will set a new benchmark for the festival, ensuring the move to the Showgrounds will be remembered as a milestone in LisAmore!'s continued growth.

Volunteers Sought for Byron Advisory Committee

By Jeff Gibbs

Byron Shire residents with a passion for agriculture and environmental sustainability are being encouraged to help shape the region's future by joining one of Council's key advisory committees.

Byron Shire Council is seeking a volunteer with a particular interest or background in agriculture

to join its Biodiversity and Agricultural Advisory Committee, which provides advice on environmental management, biodiversity conservation and sustainable farming initiatives across the shire.

The committee comprises six community representatives, three councillors and Council staff, meeting quarterly to discuss important projects,

policies and strategies that influence both the natural environment and the local agricultural sector.

Among its responsibilities are contributing to initiatives such as the Biodiversity Conservation Strategy and the Agriculture Action Plan, while providing practical advice on biodiversity, regenerative agriculture and other environmental issues.

Acting Director Sustainable Environment and Economy Sharyn French said the position offered an opportunity for residents to play an active role in shaping Council's environmental and agricultural priorities.

"This is a great opportunity for people who have either a professional or community interest in

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agriculture to work with us to shape projects that meet the needs and expectations of our residents," Ms French said.

The appointment will run until 2028, with Council encouraging people who have farming experience, agricultural knowledge or an interest in sustainable land management to submit an Expression of Interest.

Applications close

on 30 July 2026, with further information available through Byron Shire Council's Your Say website.

The committee provides an important link between Council and the community, ensuring local knowledge helps guide future decisions affecting Byron Shire's environment, biodiversity and agricultural industries.

WILLIAMSON BACKS PUSH TO SAVE HISTORIC KEITH HOWLAND MURAL

A community-led push is gaining momentum to save the historic Keith Howland mural at the former Sydney Fish Market, with State Nationals MP for Clarence Richie Williamson also backing the campaign.

Mr Williamson has been advocating for the mural's preservation in the NSW Parliament, through the relevant Minister, and directly with Infrastructure NSW as redevelopment of the Blackwattle Bay precinct progresses.

He first raised the issue in a Private Member's Statement in the NSW Parliament on 23 June highlighting the cultural and historical significance of the 1990 artwork and calling for urgent action to ensure it is not lost.

Following his parliamentary contribution, Mr Williamson wrote to the relevant Minister seeking intervention to protect the mural.

Since that correspondence was sent last week, Infrastructure NSW has directly contacted Mr Williamson and facilitated an on-site inspection of the mural last Friday, with indications there is a willingness to explore options for its preservation.

Mr Williamson said the engagement to date was an encouraging development.

"It is very encouraging to see Infrastructure NSW

engage directly and take a practical interest in the future of this remarkable piece of New South Wales history," Mr Williamson said.

"The preferred outcome remains the careful removal and incorporation of the mural into the new Sydney Fish Market redevelopment, so it continues to tell the story of our fishing industry for future generations.

"If that proves not to be possible, then we must ensure it is still preserved, protected and relocated rather than lost forever."

Mr Williamson met with members of the community campaign group in Yamba yesterday to provide an update on recent

developments and reaffirm his support for preserving the artwork.

The Keith Howland mural, created in 1990, is an eight-by-four metre ceramic artwork comprising approximately 400 individually handpainted and glazed tiles. It depicts the NSW commercial fishing industry, including vessels, workers, fish markets and regional contributions from communities such as Yamba and the Clarence Valley.

Mr Williamson said the mural holds significant cultural and historical value, particularly given its connection to both Sydney's fishing industry and the Clarence region.

Statement in Parliament has had such a positive impact."

Mr Williamson said he would continue working with the community group, Infrastructure NSW and the NSW Government to achieve the best possible outcome.

"This is not just a Sydney artwork – it is part of the broader story of our coastal communities, including the Clarence Valley," he said.

"I will continue to advocate strongly for a solution that preserves this important piece of New South Wales heritage."

Keith Howland's son, John Howland, welcomed Mr Williamson's advocacy and the progress that had been made.

"The Keith Howland mural team really appreciates Richie Williamson's intervention and the commitment he has secured from the Minister, Infrastructure NSW and the Government to explore options to preserve and reuse the mural," Mr

Howland said.

"Every day, people from both the Clarence Valley and Sydney contact us to tell us why they love this mural, ask whether it will be destroyed and what they can do to help protect it. Having Richie deliver his Private Member's

"The best-case scenario is to see this magnificent artwork incorporated into the new Sydney Fish Market redevelopment where it belongs. However, if that is ultimately not possible, we must ensure it is carefully removed and preserved so it can continue to be enjoyed by future generations."

A copy of Mr Williamson’s Private Members’ Statement can be found here - Legislative Assembly Hansard - 23 June 2026

July Carnival launches, South Grafton Cup up next

By Tim Howard

The 2026 Grafton July Racing Carnival has opened with strong signs it could be one of the club’s most successful in recent years after a significant increase in crowd numbers on Sunday’s opening day.

Clarence River Jockey Club executive officer Michael Beattie said the opening meeting exceeded expectations, with larger crowds and high-quality racing setting the tone for the week ahead.

“It was a very pleasing opening day,” Beattie said.

“Our crowd was up significantly on last year, which really augurs well for a wonderful carnival.”

He said the quality of racing was equally encouraging, with the winners of the John Carlton

Cup Prelude and Grafton Cup Prelude stamping themselves as genuine contenders for the feature races later in the week.

“The quality of the racing was at a very high level and both winners indicated they’ll move forward and take their places in the feature events over the carnival,” he said.

Attention now turns to Sunday’s South Grafton Cup meeting, traditionally one of the carnival’s most popular family days and now an increasingly important race on the national racing calendar.

The $80,000 South Grafton Quality Cup (1600m) carries added significance as a qualifying race for the $3 million Big Dance at Randwick in November, ensuring strong interest from trainers looking to secure a coveted

berth in the lucrative feature.

“The South Grafton Cup is such an important race now because it provides a qualifying race for the $3 million Big Dance,” Beattie said.

“There’ll be a large number of horses trying to force their qualification into that event.”

Last year’s race highlighted the strength of the form. Vivy Air was beaten by only a lip by Boys Night Out before winning a Big Dance Wildcard and finishing a close second to Gringotts in the Big Dance. The mare later claimed the $2 million Five Diamonds at Rosehill.

Headley Grange, which finished sixth as favourite in last year’s South Grafton Cup, subsequently won three consecutive races, including the Group 3

Cameron Handicap at Newcastle and the $1.5 million Alan Brown Stakes at Rosehill.

Early nominations for this year’s race include last year’s winner Boys Night Out and stablemate Cranky Harry from the Matthew Dunn yard, Paul Snowden’s Navy Buoy and Ghost Walker, and Kris Leestrained pair Loch Eagle and Pier Pressure.

Away from the racing, Sunday’s meeting promises a full day of entertainment.

Beattie said the popular Donovan’s fundraising marquee was expected to attract more than 400 people, while live music would run throughout the afternoon before Country Muds performs after the final race.

“There’ll be entertainment for everyone,” he said.

“We’ll have live music on the West Lawn all afternoon, kids’ entertainment and then Country Mud’s performing after the last race. It’ll be a really big day.”

The carnival has also received a boost from favourable feedback on the condition of the racing surface despite recent wet weather.

Beattie said several jockeys told him the track was the best they had experienced on an opening day for many years.

“The general consensus from the jockeys was that the track itself was the best it’s been on day one of the carnival in recent years,” he said.

“That indicates the preparation by our track managers and the work they’ve put into rail positions and track

management is really starting to show its benefits.”

Looking ahead to Wednesday’s Ramornie Handicap and Thursday’s Grafton Cup, Beattie said there was growing interest from leading metropolitan stables.

He said the club was hopeful Armidale trainer Stirling Osland would bring the runner-up from Saturday’s Caloundra Cup to Grafton, while inquiries from major Sydney stables continued.

“We’re getting significant interest from the major Sydney stables in relation to both the Ramornie and the Cup,” he said.

“It’s all auguring well for a very, very successful carnival.”

Green Seat project moves ahead in Clarence Valley

By Tim Howard

The installation of two Green Seats in the Clarence Valley will proceed with QR codes linking to the Missing Matter website after Clarence Valley Council resolved to back the communityled initiative while also seeking clarification from the Australian Government about concerns raised over its National Missing Persons website.

The Green Seats, part of The Green Seat Project founded by missing persons advocate Sally Leydon, will be installed at Corcoran Park in Grafton and Flinders Park in Yamba. The seats are intended to raise awareness of long-term missing persons cases while providing information and support for affected families.

Council officers had recommended the seats carry QR codes linking to both the Missing Matter website and the Australian Government’s National Missing Persons webpage.

The report said the government website would provide access to

a nationally recognised database and support services while reducing reliance on a single thirdparty source.

However, a deputation

to councillors earlier in the week questioned the accuracy and completeness of information on the national website, prompting an extended debate at the June council

meeting.

Cr Andrew Baker moved an amendment to retain both QR codes, saying the objective should be to spread awareness of missing persons as widely as possible.

“I was certainly of the view that the idea was to spread the matter of missing persons as far and wide as possible,” Cr Baker said.

He argued that if there were shortcomings with the national website, council should encourage the Australian Government to address them rather than remove the link.

Cr Peter Johnstone opposed the amendment, saying council should respect the wishes of the Green Seat Project organisers.

“It’s part of a campaign that’s been led by a particular group of people,” he said.

“We can always add things in the future, but I would suggest we go with what they want at the moment.”

Cr Debrah Novak said council had already committed to supporting

the Green Seat Project and should not alter its purpose.

“The Green Seat Project has nothing to do with the Australian Missing Persons webpage,” she said.

“We’re supporting the Green Seat Project simply and solely.”

Cr Karen Toms supported the officer recommendation, saying council needed to consider its responsibility when spending ratepayers’ money.

“I personally feel that we should have the Australian Government National Missing Persons webpage link on there,” she said.

“If there are concerns about that website, then perhaps we should be writing to them and finding out why.”

Cr Greg Clancy agreed that any concerns about the government database should be taken up directly with the agency responsible.

“If there’s a problem with that website, let’s fix the website,” he said.

Cr Baker’s amendment was defeated 4-4, with Mayor Ray Smith using his casting vote against it.

Cr Johnstone then successfully proposed simplifying the motion so the Green Seats would feature a single QR code linking to the Missing Matter website.

Council also unanimously agreed to write to the Australian Government seeking clarification about the accuracy of information held on the National Missing Persons website following concerns raised during the public deputation.

The final motion was carried unanimously.

Cr Novak welcomed the outcome, thanking councillors for reaching what she described as a collaborative solution.

“I just want to thank everybody for the collaboration on this conversation and coming out with a win-win for this amazing project,” she said.

The Green Seats are intended to provide places for reflection while encouraging people to learn more about long-term missing persons cases and the ongoing impact they have on families and communities.

Time to go back to The Shack

Right on time for the school holidays, the opening of The Shack will ensure many holidaymakers and locals in Evans Head are well fed and watered.

The Shack is the sister operation of the popular Port Macquarie cafe Little Shack, leasing the kiosk from Reflections Holidays.

With views across the river, The Shack Evans Head is now serving coffee, snacks and meals, sourcing locally where possible.

“We've hired staff locally, including our head barista, Jordie, and we're sourcing our meat products from Metcalf Quality Meats in Evans Head and our bread from Simply Sourdough in Lismore, and supporting local wherever

we can in the future,” said Paul Schulte, co-founder of The Shack Group.

“We're looking forward to becoming a part of the local fabric at Evans.”

Alongside the cafe, The Shack Evans Head will

also have Little Shop, a takeaway offering with a curated selection of Northern NSW products and essentials, including fresh bread, veggies and staples, allowing Reflections guests and the

local community to stock up on essentials.

“The concept has been built around convenience, simplicity and a genuine commitment to supporting regional producers,” Mr Schulte said.

Reflections Evans

Head park manager Jen Scott said the new cafe was appreciated by the community throughout every season, positioned ideally for the enjoyment of Reflections guests but also the broader community.

"The kiosk site is loved

by locals, particularly families given the wideopen space for kids to enjoy, and our guests are always appreciative of its presence for snacks and meals and of course morning coffees while enjoying the spectacular views,” she said.

Johnny Cakes on the NAIDOC menu

By Samantha Elley

For over 50 years

NAIDOC Week has been celebrated to highlight all things Indigenous in culture.

Casino West Preschool was no different and the children had a very busy week last week with face painting, learning about the Aboriginal flag and its colours, making Johnny Cakes and so much more.

“This week we’ve had two family members make Johnny Cakes, Tania Walker on Tuesday and Aunty Lenie (Eileen Thompson) came in Thursday,” said preschool teacher, Tamara Freeburn.

“Johnny Cakes go back to ye olde days and were a staple Aboriginal food.”

The importance of NAIDOC Week is found in what the children, both Aboriginal and nonAboriginal are learning, according to Tamara.

“For Aboriginal children it is a continuation of their

culture from home to preschool,” she said.

“They are recognised and celebrated and respected.

“For non-Indigenous children, they learn they are growing up in a diverse community.”

Children learn through play-based activities with play dough using Aboriginal symbols and Aboriginal words and art.

Eileen Thompson, better known as Aunty Lenie, said that teaching the Aboriginal culture ensures it will get passed down to the next generation.

“Our culture is learning our art and cooking and language,” she said.

“It is a culture just like any other culture.”

Aunty Lenie said the children are interested, especially in the cooking

and making Johnny Cakes is a big part of that.

“Traditionally they are cooked on the coals,” she said.

“I usually make them for sorry business too when we come together throughout the community.

“With my mob we still do it the traditional way, it’s an honour to dig their grave.”

Aunty Lenie said she liked to put jam on her Johnny Cakes but they are also often used in stews and curries.

Another initiative the preschool is doing to keep the Bundjalung language alive is a language program held by Aunty Leanne Davis.

“It is intentional teaching every week,” said Tamara.

“They learn body parts, animals and a range of other words which we then embed in their every day speech.”

Johnny Cakes recipe Ingredients

• Salt: A generous pinch

• Liquid: ¾ to 1 cup of water or milk

• Fat for frying: 1-2 tbsp of butter, dripping, or vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Mix: Place the flour and salt into a bowl. Gradually pour in the liquid, stirring with a knife until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.

2. Knead & Shape: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead gently for a minute, then divide into small, palmsized pieces. Shape each piece into a flat round patty, about 1.5 to 2 cm thick.

3. Cook: Melt your butter or oil in a heavy-based frying pan (traditionally, a cast-iron skillet over hot coals) over medium heat.

4. Fry: Place the cakes in the pan and cook for 3-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.

• Self-raising flour: 2 cups (or plain flour with 2 tsp baking powder)

Showground attracting many events

By Samantha Elley

Since the 2022 floods, the Lismore Showgrounds has been slowly recovering with flood works commenced in 2025 after a $4.7 million tender.

“I was appointed in August to assist in the management of the works here at the grounds,” said Project Manager for the Lismore Showground flood remediation, Mark Bailey.

“Since then, we’ve identified over 118 variations which exceeds by eight the number involved at Homebush with the Olympic Stadium.

“It gives you an idea of the complexity of the works that have undergone here.

“Those variations have come in over $2 million.”

Mr Bailey said the showground has just settled their insurance at just over

$1 million.

“This will be spent on critical safety upgrades, upgrades to works that were done with the flood

JUMPERS AND JAZZ IN JULY 2026

Jumpers and Jazz in July, Queensland’s quirkiest winter festival is back, and the 2026 program is shaping up to be one of the most vibrant yet. From 16 - 26 July, Warwick on the Southern Downs will come alive with uniquely created yarnbombed trees, get up ‘n dance’ jazz, local Flavours, and a packed program across nine communities.

Excitement is building for yarn fans who ‘can’t wait to see” the Yarntopians’ installment this year – “Submerged”. The exquisite exhibition will feature a magical ‘under the sea’ yarnbombed vista of colour and imagination. The whole Artisan Precinct , hosting unique pop up stalls and art works is worth the exploration , and this year, Warwick Art Gallery hosts the amazing “Red Dress” exhibition as one of only 2 appearances in Australia.

Two Ticketed signature concert events, Jumpin Jazz Laneway Party on July 17th and Twilight Jazz n Blues on the 25th will get you up and dancing and include Granite Belt wines, cocktails, and gourmet eats at both events.

Book early also for the Local Flavours Long Lunch where elegant mouthwatering three course “paddock to plate” dining -with matched wines- awaits diners, with a chance to meet the producers.

Car enthusiasts can look forward to an amazing array of “show & shine” at the grand Automobile Display on July 19th featuring vehicles from vintage through to modern muscle cars and everything in between! (Don’t miss the “Dashing Daschies” walk, race, & fashion parade in the park on the same day!) Families will

have plenty to enjoy at Stroll & Swing in Leslie Park on the 25th including suitcase rummage and Jazzy Kids Zone. Visit the website to explore the huge panorama of colour, vibe and creativity of Jumpers and Jazz in July. https:// jumpersandjazz.com.au/ Book tickets: https:// jumpersandjazz.com.au/ info/festival-ticketedsignature-events/

Mr Bailey said the showground is a much different ground than before the flood.

“The major works have largely been completed,” he said.

“The work on the grandstand is underway at the moment and that is a great example of a building that had significant flood damage.

Gordon said financial sustainability is what it is all about.

“We are now a(venue) that attracts over 300,00 people per year,” he said.

“We have over 35 events occurring here, over 220 days out of the 365 per year.

“We are forging our way into event management and event destination.”

program and works that will bring long term economical viability and sustainability to the showground,” he said.

“It was built around 1905 and the standards weren’t compliant to modern standards so with the floodplain work we’ve been able to fix underneath the grandstand and also clad it in materials that will lessen the upkeep and maintenance which is always an issue here.”

Lismore Showground Society treasurer, Andrew

With the hint of a new event coming, neither gentlemen would be coaxed into revealing what that is, so watch this space.

“We are in the business of being part of this community by providing a venue for the community and ensuring the showground’s here for a long time to come,” said Mr Gordon.

The better angels of our nature

Comment By Tim Howard

I am an atheist, but one of the most moving experiences of my life began with a simple question from a religious friend.

“Imagine God is real,” she said. “Imagine you have died and are going to heaven. What do you think it will be like?”

My first thought wasn’t of God. It was of my dogs.

I imagined all the dogs I had loved throughout my life waiting for me. I imagined the joy of our reunion after so many years apart.

Then another thought occurred to me. What would it be like for all those dogs to meet each other?

They all had such different personalities. Some would bound excitedly towards one another. Others would be cautious. One or two would probably wander off to investigate something more interesting.

And I found myself hoping that, in heaven, we would finally understand each other perfectly. Whatever had been lost in translation between humans and dogs on Earth would simply disappear. It was a lovely thought. A consolation.

What surprised me was that it did not trouble me when I realised that consolation is not the same thing as truth.

The beauty of the thought did not make it true. Nor did recognising that diminish its beauty. For a few moments I had imagined something wonderful. That was enough.

But not all consolations are beautiful.

Some ask nothing of us except that we endure grief. Others ask us to surrender curiosity, distrust evidence and blame our neighbours. They offer certainty where the world offers complexity. They replace difficult questions with comforting answers.

During the COVID pandemic these darker consolations were on full display.

The virus was a hoax. The vaccine was poison. Scientists were lying. Governments had planned it all. Every theory offered the same emotional reward. The world no longer seemed frighteningly uncertain. We had a target for our worries. Someone was to blame.

Science offered something far less emotionally satisfying.

We were told: “This is a novel coronavirus. We are learning. Our advice will change as our knowledge improves, we will develop a vaccine”.

That was not science failing. It was science behaving exactly as it should.

Science is not a collection of eternal truths. It is humanity’s best method for correcting its own mistakes.

Yet many people interpreted uncertainty as evidence of deception and certainty as evidence of honesty.

That inversion has not disappeared now that the pandemic has faded. The subjects have changed. Russia invaded Ukraine. Populist movements have continued to grow. Conflict in the Middle East has become another arena in which the appearance of certainty

often triumphs over understanding.

But the habit of mind remains remarkably familiar. More and more people begin not with a question, but with an answer. Evidence becomes something to collect in support of conclusions already reached.

Trust is transferred from institutions that openly admit mistakes to personalities who never admit any.

We should not be surprised by this. Human beings have always sought consolation. We seek stories that reassure us the world makes sense.

The danger comes when consolation demands victims.

History is littered with stories that explain our problems by blaming minorities, migrants, intellectuals, scientists, journalists or political opponents.

These stories are comforting because they simplify the world. Complexity disappears. Uncertainty disappears. Someone else becomes responsible for our disappointments.

My imagined reunion with my dogs asked nothing of anyone else.

These consolations ask us to distrust, to resent and sometimes to hate.

A friend – the son of a farmer – told me his dad described humans as “strange cattle”.

We are capable of extraordinary kindness and extraordinary cruelty. We produce people who appeal to our better angels, and we produce those who profit by awakening the darker ones.

Abraham Lincoln understood this. On the eve of America’s Civil

More than 160 years ago US President

War he appealed to “the better angels of our nature”.

Four years later, after one of history’s bloodiest conflicts, he urged his country to act “with malice toward none; with charity for all.”

John F. Kennedy made the same appeal in different words. He reminded us that, whatever our differences, we all breathe the same air, cherish our children’s future and are all mortal. Those are not sentimental observations. They are political ones. I was reminded of them during the long battle over the Murugappan family in Biloela. The people who knew the family wanted them to stay.

They had worked alongside them, gone to school with them, shared meals and celebrations with them. The family had ceased to be an abstraction. They had become neighbours. Distance encourages categories. Closeness reveals people.

Perhaps that is one of civilisation’s great tasks: not simply to restrain our darker impulses, but to create the conditions in which people encounter one another as fellow human beings rather than competing tribes. Laws cannot force affection, but they can quietly express the kind of society we aspire to be.

They can invite us to think first about belonging rather than exclusion, about neighbours rather than strangers. We all need consolations. They help us survive loss, disappointment and uncertainty. There is nothing shameful in that.

But we should be wary of consolations that require us to abandon truth, or each other.

The darker angels of our nature offer certainty, blame and the comfort of enemies.

The better angels ask something much harder: humility, curiosity and the courage to follow truth even when it offers no consolation at all.

Grafton Women Push Beyond Their Limits to Raise More Than $20,000 for Charity

By Jeff Gibbs

What started as a daunting challenge with little experience has become an extraordinary story of determination, community spirit and generosity, with two Grafton women helping raise almost $21,000 while completing one of the toughest endurance events of their lives.

Kathryn Langford and Jenny Ryder, alongside colleague Sally McArthur, have returned home after successfully completing the demanding Fitphoria Expedition in Thailand, collectively raising $20,991 for charity while inspiring their hometown to join them every kilometre of the way.

The expedition was no ordinary fitness challenge.

Kathryn and Jenny

tackled an exhausting 500-kilometre cycling journey, despite neither considering themselves cyclists before committing to the event. Meanwhile, Sally completed an astonishing 212-kilometre run, a remarkable achievement given her previous longest run had been just 10 kilometres.

The physically demanding expedition

tested the trio across challenging terrain, tropical conditions and long days of continuous endurance. Yet while they pushed through the kilometres in Thailand, the people of Grafton ensured they were never tackling the challenge alone.

Back home, members and staff at their local gym transformed the expedition into a community-wide

event, spending hours on stationary bikes, treadmills and rowing machines to mirror the distances being completed overseas in real time. Every pedal stroke, stride and pull became a powerful show of support, creating a unique connection between the expedition team and their hometown.

The result was not only an unforgettable display of community spirit but an impressive fundraising effort that generated $20,991 for three organisations making a significant difference in the lives of Australians.

The funds will benefit Hands Across the Water, which supports vulnerable children in Thailand, Bravehearts, Australia's leading child protection organisation dedicated to preventing child sexual

abuse, and Running for Resilience, which promotes positive mental health and resilience through physical activity.

The latest campaign also marks a significant milestone for the trio, taking their total fundraising efforts since 2016 to more than $140,000.

Over the past decade, their fundraising has extended far beyond endurance events.

They have previously helped secure $20,000 in stock feed vouchers for farmers affected by devastating floods in Lismore, coordinated bushfire relief hampers for struggling communities and organised book drives supporting women and children accessing the local Women's Shelter.

Their latest achievement

is another example of how ordinary people can create extraordinary outcomes through perseverance, compassion and community involvement.

Having returned home, Kathryn and Jenny are now reflecting on the emotional highs and physical challenges of the expedition, along with the overwhelming encouragement they received from friends, family and supporters in Grafton.

Knowing an entire community was matching their efforts kilometre for kilometre became a powerful source of motivation during the toughest moments of the journey, proving that while only three women travelled to Thailand, an entire town helped carry them across the finish line.

Over the last week of term, it was a pleasure to catch up with the Year 8 students from St Mary’s Catholic College in Casino to discuss road safety concerns they have identified at the pedestrian crossing on the corner of Canterbury and Centre Streets.

As part of their studies, the students undertook a road safety assessment of the intersection and identified the crossing as a higher-risk location for pedestrians. Mayor Robert Mustow and I were pleased to hear directly from the students, who presented their findings professionally and provided us with thoughtful letters outlining their concerns and suggested improvements.

It was fantastic to see young people taking such an active interest in their community. This was local democracy in action, with students identifying an issue, researching it, developing practical solutions and advocating for change. Their presentation was outstanding, and I look forward to continuing to work alongside the students and Richmond Valley Council as the current traffic study progresses.

Our region also continues to face significant biosecurity challenges. From cattle tick and tick fever to the ongoing spread of varroa mite, our farmers and primary industries are dealing with a growing number of serious threats.

Varroa mite, in particular, represents one of the biggest challenges facing agriculture and

food production in New South Wales. These destructive parasites are killing honeybee colonies at an alarming rate, placing enormous pressure on commercial beekeepers while also impacting wild honeybee populations.

Honeybees play a critical role in pollinating many of the crops we rely on every day. Many people have commented that they are seeing fewer bees in their gardens, and unfortunately that reflects the growing impact this pest is having across Australia.

I have written to the Minns Government calling for urgent action. The Government must provide stronger support to the beekeeping industry and move more quickly to contain this incursion before the consequences become even more severe. Protecting our bees means protecting our food security, our agricultural industries and our regional economy.

I also welcome the release of the landmark CSIRO Northern Rivers Resilience Initiative report, which I believe must become a turning point in how governments prepare our region for future floods.

Rare Dalai Lama Birthday Ceremony to Be Held at Crystal Castle

By Robert Heyward

This is arguably the most comprehensive flood resilience study ever undertaken in Australia and certainly the most significant body of work our region has seen since the devastating 2022 floods.

For the first time, governments and local communities have access to world-class science and sophisticated catchmentwide modelling demonstrating that strategically located flood mitigation infrastructure has the potential to significantly reduce flood levels, flood depths and the extent of flooding across the Richmond River catchment.

The report provides an unprecedented opportunity to make informed, long-term decisions that will better protect lives, homes, businesses and critical infrastructure.

I strongly encourage everyone to participate in the upcoming community consultation process. Local knowledge is invaluable and will play an important role in shaping the next stage of this work.

Now is the time for all levels of government to work together with local communities to turn this science into action.

- Richie

A remarkable spiritual event rarely seen outside the Tibetan communities of Nepal and northern India will unfold in the Byron Shire this week, as Crystal Castle hosts a special ceremony celebrating the 91st birthday of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

On 6 July, visitors to the Mullumbimby attraction will have the rare opportunity to witness the Gyuto Monks of Tibet perform a traditional Milestone Ceremony and Long Life Guru Puja, one of Tibetan Buddhism's most sacred rituals.

Complete with ceremonial robes, colourful scarves, horns, cymbals, ritual offerings and the monks' world-renowned overtone chanting, the ceremony promises to be both visually spectacular and deeply moving.

The celebration coincides with the monks' longestever residency in Australia and marks the conclusion of the internationally recognised Year of Compassion, making the occasion particularly significant for Buddhists and visitors alike.

Crystal Castle General Manager Toby King said the alignment of these events makes the ceremony exceptionally rare.

"This particular alignment, the Dalai Lama's 91st birthday, the closing of the global Year

of Compassion and the Gyuto monks performing a Long Life Guru Puja open to the public isn't something that comes around often," Mr King said.

"It's a real ceremony, not simply a performance, and visitors are invited to be part of the experience rather than simply observe it."

The Long Life Guru Puja is one of the highest forms of prayer in Tibetan Buddhism, offering blessings for the health, wellbeing and long life of an important spiritual teacher. In this case, the prayers honour His Holiness the Dalai Lama, who has become one of the world's most respected voices for peace, compassion and nonviolence.

One of the ceremony's highlights will be the Gyuto monks' extraordinary overtone chanting, often described as one of the rarest vocal traditions on Earth. Through centuries-old techniques, each monk is able to produce multiple notes simultaneously, creating a powerful, lowfrequency harmonic sound unlike almost anything heard in Western music.

Since arriving at Crystal Castle in June, the monks have immersed visitors in Tibetan culture through daily meditation sessions, Buddhist teachings, sacred ceremonies and

the painstaking creation of three intricate sand mandalas, each constructed grain by grain over several weeks.

Mr King said the extended residency had transformed the atmosphere throughout the venue.

"When they're here, the whole place shifts. Guests feel it the moment they walk in," he said.

"To have them in residence for nearly three months, creating sacred mandalas and sharing their traditions every day, is something truly special."

Led by senior monk Lama Phurba, making his first visit to Australia, the group represents the historic Gyuto Tantric University of the Gelug tradition, established in 1474 and regarded as one of Tibetan Buddhism's most respected monastic institutions.

Crystal Castle has maintained a close connection with Tibetan Buddhism for many years. Since 2012, it has been home to the Kalachakra Stupa for World Peace, personally blessed by the Dalai Lama and recognised as the only Buddhist stupa of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.

The special birthday ceremony is included with general admission, allowing visitors to experience a centuries-old spiritual tradition without requiring additional tickets.

“Leemo has views on just about anything”

‘TOTAL NONSENSE by ‘Leemo & Buddies’

‘Leemo Cat’ writing. I spoke to ‘Mum Jane’; Mum, me & the Buddies want choo s. e fgure would suffce with each of the following:

‘Bantam Langshans’ fuffy feathers, socially docile & friendly; Australorps ‘cos they lay lotsa eggs; Rhode Island Reds ‘cos they have colourful red/ brown plumage and lay eggs: our fnal pic is ‘Isa Browns’…whilst they are not a real breed they ARE a proprietary hybrid meaning if you decide to breed them you may well end up with an Ostrich. But, they’re cute and friendly, cluck nicely, climb trees & also lay many eggs. Mum, it would be so much fun to have chooks so can you go get them?’ (Leemo Cat & Buddies here.) Well, as per ‘comme d'habitude’ Mum had the look of a stunned mullet & crabbily signalled for tea; she spoke. ‘OK Buddies, what’s goin’ on? I DO have questions and expect lucid insightful answers please. CHOOKS NEED A COOP, being a fox, dog & snake proof kinda house to live in at night. Which one of you will build the coop & NESTING BOXES?

Chooks also need to be fed treats daily, have clean water bowls, & fresh straw: they should also be taught to cluck appealingly & scratch for worms. Eggs need collection and the COOP MUST BE raked regularly to collect chook (poo) manure for the garden. AND,

I WILL ‘NOT’ BE DOING ANY OF IT –COMPRENDE? You WANT CHOOKS… you’ve gotta put in the effort YOURSELVES. AND, do you have enough $ in your Buddies Inc. money jar to pay for them + ongoing costs? Eeek. ‘Brutus’ whispered ‘how much are chooks each?’ (‘Fluffy Bum’ whispered $12.50 for a cooked one at Woolies,!) Mum overheard & told us to forget buying chooks (cooked or otherwise) ‘cos she’d peeked in our money jar & it was insolvent. She then shouted at us ‘END OF STORY’ We are NOT getting chooks so go away all of you.’ ‘Treasure’ spoke politely & asked Mum if we could maybe get a Clydesdale Draft horse instead & explained ALL the Buddies could leap on together using our ‘leaping’ skills & ‘Clydie could take us up the road to the forest, going slowly on his huge fuffy feet. we could gaily wave at neighbours on the way enhancing our feline goodwill presence in the street.’ OMG, Mum looked green & close to fainting but recovered & spoke again. ‘Leemo’ I’m holding you personally accountable for all this nonsense, AND, I have an issue of more import than chooks or horsies – GOTTIT? Remember, 6 weeks ago you started snarling & hissing & growling when you looked out one of our front windows & came face to face with a feline you were not familiar with? Your behaviour was appalling & 6 weeks later you are still patrolling that window like a Sentry. I’ve had to re-arrange things so you can sit on a chair with a soft cushion with a blankie whilst you are on Sentry Duty. HOWEVER Leems, enough is enough. I’m moving my armchair back to where it belongs ‘cos I only have 2.’ Hmmm! I reckon me &the buddies have had enough fun for 1 day. Nitey with smiles, Leemo & Buddies.

Letters to the Editor

Have your say in The Northern Rivers Times!

We welcome your feedback, opinions, praise, concerns, and refections on local issues, events, and stories.

Send your letters to: Jeff Gibbs letters@heartlandmedia. com.au

Deadline: Fridays at noon

Please include your name, address, and phone number for verifcation purposes (not for publication).

The Northern Rivers Times is committed to providing a platform for diverse community voices. The views expressed in letters are those of the writers and do not necessarily refect those of the publisher, editors, or staff. Letters may be edited for length or clarity. Offensive or defamatory content will not be published

IS AUSTRALIA'S NATIONAL IDENTITY FADING?

I believe it is a bit much for Tim to say that Pauline Hanson is wrong for describing Japan as a monoculture. While Japanese society certainly has many different facets, unlike Australia it has managed to retain its distinct cultural identity. The Japanese remain proudly Japanese and continue to preserve their traditions, values and Asian heritage. Australia, on the other hand, appears to have lost much of its national identity. We have become a nation made up of many different cultures and beliefs, but in the process, it seems our own Australian identity has been diminished.

B. Hunnisett – Town withheld

DAWE'S PHILOSOPHY NIGEL DAWE SIR.

Philosophically I am delighted to illuminate an expansion on your most interesting comments of the 2nd. July last, obviously exposing you as a well-read Sherlockian Diogenes scholar. As you say he didn't make it another 500 years to meet Aurelius, but he did pop up in the 1800s and formed the most elite exclusive gentlemen's club in England, to instil Philosophical awareness. Aurelius could well have been a clandestine believer in Diogenes because as you say his Meditations were not published because "Diogenes" rules of membership as dictated by Mycroft banned open discussion and smoking outside their exclusive sect. Would you say that the reason there are hundreds of years gaps, so few remembered philosophers are recognised because prevailing society, with out of sorts heavyweights

(eg.the Roman empire) would trot out a mob of lance wielding troops to the front door announcing "the big fella has decided you're a pain in the backside and got to go, you're going up that hill, we have a handful of nails to secure your place in history". A few persistent philosophers left their mark on society notably Buddha and Confushius who indelibly edged out traditional religion with Philosophy which persists to this day followed by billions of believers in harmony.

A more modern philosopher, Grellet 1886 penned:" I PASS THROUGH THIS WORLD BUT ONCE, ANY GOOD OR KINDNESS I MAY DO A FELLOW CREATURE, LET ME DO IT NOW, NOT DETER NOR DEGLECT IT, FOR I MAY NOT PASS THIS WAY AGAIN."

e can all beneft by studying our own performance.

N. Murray - Broadwater NSW.

REGIONAL NSW DESERVES BETTER

While the additional funding for the Grafton Base Hospital is certainly welcome, it is diffcult to disagree with the view that regional New South Wales continues to miss out in State Budgets. Roads are deteriorating, housing affordability is worsening and essential infrastructure struggles to keep pace with demand.

Governments of every persuasion like to praise regional communities, but praise does not fx potholes or build homes. It's time investment matched the rhetoric.

A. McIntyre – South Grafton

THE HOSPITAL COMES FIRST

Politics aside, every resident should welcome the additional funding for the Grafton Base Hospital redevelopment. Modern health facilities beneft everyone, regardless of who receives the political credit.

Let's hope construction continues without delay because quality healthcare is something no community should have to fght for.

P. Langford – Maclean

KEEP FIGHTING FOR FUNDING

Mayor Ray Smith is correct that councils cannot simply assume funding will arrive automatically. Regional councils must continually compete for grants, often against much larger metropolitan projects.

The Clarence Valley deserves a strong advocate who keeps knocking on government doors until the money arrives.

S. Cartwright – Ulmarra

A PAPER THAT HAS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

One of the reasons I enjoy reading The Northern Rivers Times is the variety it offers. In the space of a few pages readers can move from serious local news to thoughtful opinion, then relax with Leemo's latest antics.

It is refreshing to see a community newspaper that informs, entertains and still manages to make readers smile every week.

M. Fairley – Cumbalum

A BUDGET OF MISSED OPPORTUNITIES

Many regional families were hoping this budget would provide meaningful relief from rising living costs. Instead, most households are still facing higher electricity bills, insurance premiums and grocery prices with little immediate assistance.

Regional Australia cannot continue being expected to do more with less.

G. Atkinson – Lawrence

LOOK BEYOND THE POLITICS

It is interesting that both the local MP and the Mayor could examine the same budget and reach different conclusions. Perhaps the truth lies somewhere in between.

The hospital funding is excellent news, but there is still plenty of work needed to improve roads, housing and regional services.

D. Fairweather – Junction Hill

CUTTING RED TAPE HELPS EVERYONE

The streamlined approval process for Kings Forest is a sensible reform. If homeowners can obtain approvals more quickly while still meeting strict planning standards, everyone benefts. Reducing unnecessary bureaucracy should be encouraged wherever possible.

J. Pritchard – Kingscliff

BUILD HOMES, NOT PAPERWORK

Australia's housing shortage will never be solved if people spend months waiting for planning approvals. Faster pathways for compliant developments are a practical way to increase housing supply without compromising quality.

Hopefully other councils adopt similar approaches.

L. McMillan – Banora Point

PLANNING WITH COMMON SENSE

It is pleasing to see planning authorities recognising that not every small home improvement should require lengthy approval processes. Sensible exemptions save homeowners time, money and frustration.

Good planning should protect communities without creating unnecessary obstacles.

E. Sullivan – Casuarina

HOUSING NEEDS URGENCY

Kings Forest has been decades in the making, yet demand for housing continues to grow. Every measure that responsibly accelerates new home construction should be welcomed.

Young families cannot afford endless delays while governments debate planning rules.

M. Donnelly – Tweed Heads

A HELPFUL GUIDE FOR FIRST HOME BUYERS

This was one of the most practical property features I've seen in a long time. Rather than focusing on milliondollar homes, the article highlighted properties that ordinary families and frst home buyers might actually be able to afford.

More features like this would be greatly appreciated by readers trying to enter the market.

J. Hawthorne – Wollongbar

AFFORDABLE IS BECOMING RELATIVE

While it was encouraging to see homes listed under $600,000, it is also a reminder of how dramatically property prices have changed. Many of these homes still require signifcant renovations, making home ownership an enormous challenge for young families.

The article highlights both the opportunities and the reality facing today's buyers.

A. Kelleher – Broadwater

LOOK BEYOND THE CITIES

The feature also demonstrated that some of the best value can still be found in smaller towns such as Woodburn, Coraki and Brushgrove. Buyers prepared to look beyond the larger centres may discover excellent opportunities and a better lifestyle.

It was an informative article that offered genuine hope in a diffcult housing mar et. R. Gibbons – Newrybar

REGIONS NEED FAIRER FUNDING

The contrasting reactions to the State Budget highlight a broader problem facing regional Australia. Governments often announce large statewide funding pac ages, but the benefts for individual communities depend on competitive grant applications and future decisions rather than guaranteed investment. That leaves regional councils competing against one another for limited funding while metropolitan areas continue receiving signifcant direct investment. Communities like the Clarence Valley should not have to rely on political infuence or grant writing expertise to secure essential infrastructure. Roads, hospitals, food mitigation and community facilities are not luxuries—they are the foundations of regional economic growth.

If governments genuinely want people to live outside Sydney, funding models must become more predictable and equitable. Regional communities contribute enormously to the state's economy and deserve funding certainty, not perpetual competition.

R. Ellison – Grafton

STREAMLINING IS ONLY PART OF THE ANSWER

The changes to planning approvals at Kings Forest are a positive step, but they should not be mistaken for a complete solution to Australia's housing challenges. Faster approvals are valuable only if essential infrastructure keeps pace with development.

Every new housing estate requires roads, schools, medical services, public transport, sporting facilities and reliable water and sewer infrastructure. Without careful planning, rapid growth can simply transfer pressure onto existing communities and reduce residents' quality of life.

The Kings Forest model demonstrates that governments are capable of reducing unnecessary bureaucracy while maintaining planning standards. The next challenge is ensuring supporting infrastructure is delivered at the same pace as new housing. Growth should be planned, balanced and sustainable rather than simply faster.

F. Franklin – Pottsville

KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK

Congratulations to everyone involved in producing The Northern Rivers Times.

The newspaper consistently delivers balanced local news, interesting feature stories, quality opinion pieces and entertaining columns like Leemo that simply cannot be found elsewhere.

Local journalism remains one of the cornerstones of a strong community, and this publication continues to set a very high standard.

V. Ashcroft – Tintenbar

NATURE NEEDS A HELPING HAND

It is encouraging to see funding directed towards practical environmental projects rather than endless reports and studies. Weed control and habitat restoration may not make headlines every day, but they are the sort of work that produces lasting benefts for future generations. Every dollar spent protecting our natural environment is an investment in the future.

H. Keating – Clunes

A VOYAGE TO REMEMBER

Leemo's imagination once again got the better of him.

The poor Buddies had Mum Jane sailing on the Titanic, dining with the captain and dancing to ragtime music

before she fnally set the record straight. The humour comes from the fact that every family seems to have its own storyteller who improves every tale with each retelling. Thankfully, Mum Jane is always there to separate fact from Leemo's colourful fction.

Y. Brennan – Alstonville

LOOK AFTER WHAT WE HAVE

The Crown reserves belong to everyone, yet they often receive little attention until they fall into disrepair. These grants will allow volunteers and land managers to restore valuable bushland before environmental damage becomes far more expensive to fx.

Preventing problems is always cheaper than repairing them.

N. Callaghan – Dunoon

PREPARATION IS THE BEST DEFENCE

The strengthening of NSW's bird fu surveillance should reassure both farmers and the wider community. Preparing before an outbreak occurs is far wiser than scrambling to respond after the virus has spread.

Biosecurity is something we only notice when it fails.

B. Whittaker – Casino

BETTER SAFE THAN SORRY

Australia has learnt through recent years that emergencies demand preparation, not panic. Expanding surveillance for bird fu while the state remains virus-free is exactly the sort of forward planning governments should be undertaking.

Let's hope these measures prove unnecessary, but it's comforting to know they're in place.

I. Mercer – Ballina

A SYMBOL OF RECOVERY

The progress at Lismore South Public School is about much more than bricks and mortar. It represents hope for families who have endured years of disruption since the foods.

Seeing the project nearing completion is wonderful news

for the entire community.

K. Driscoll – Lismore Heights

A MISSING PIECE OF THE HIGHWAY

The proposal for a highway service centre at Maclean makes a great deal of sense. Anyone who regularly drives the Pacifc Motorway knows there is a signifcant gap between major service stops, particularly for truck drivers and families travelling long distances.

A modern facility with fuel, food, EV charging and heavy vehicle parking would improve safety by giving motorists more opportunities to rest rather than pushing on to the next town.

P. Ashworth – Gulmarrad

A BOOK THAT ASKS DIFFICULT QUESTIONS

The review of In Her Defence caught my attention because it tackles an issue that is becoming increasingly common but is rarely discussed openly—family estrangement.

Books that challenge readers to consider different perspectives often make the most rewarding reading.

Samantha's review gave just enough insight without revealing too much, and it has certainly earned a place on my reading list.

W. Sinclair – Lennox Head

BUILD IT TO LAST

The decision to rebuild Lismore South Public School with future foods in mind is exactly how public infrastructure should be approached. We cannot stop natural disasters, but we can build smarter so communities recover more quickly. Hopefully this becomes the standard for future public projects.

G. Hollis – Goonellabah

HOUSING WITH RESPONSIBILITY

The Iron Gates development has generated strong opinions for years, but now that approvals have been granted the priority must be ensuring every environmental condition is strictly enforced.

Good housing and

environmental protection should not be mutually exclusive.

R. Faulkner – Evans Head

WE NEED MORE HOMES

Australia cannot continue talking about a housing crisis while opposing every new development. If projects satisfy planning and environmental requirements, they deserve the opportunity to proceed.

Young families need homes, not endless delays.

D. Menzies – Woodburn

MORE THAN A CHILDREN'S SHOW

The Once Upon a Song performance sounds like exactly the sort of event regional families deserve. Live theatre encourages imagination in ways television and tablets simply cannot match.

Congratulations to everyone bringing quality live entertainment to local children.

S. Rawson – Mullumbimby

PROPERTY ISN'T A GUARANTEE

While Brisbane's Olympic boom may create opportunities, buyers should remember that property markets rise and fall. Purchasing solely because of Olympic excitement could prove risky if expectations become unrealistic. Good investments are based on sound fundamentals, not hype.

S. Delaware – Byron Bay

TRUTH ALWAYS WINS

This week's Leemo reminded us that memories become much more entertaining after they've passed through the imagination of one mischievous cat. Mum Jane's real-life adventure aboard the Angelina Lauro was fascinating enough without Leemo adding the Titanic, icebergs and butlers to the story.

Leemo continues to be one of the funniest and most original features in the newspaper. Long may his tall tales continue.

O. Carmichael – Suffolk Park

by Nigel Dawe

FOR five dollars, I recently picked up a small second-hand book that was titled Japanese Proverbs and Traditional Phrases. It somehow drew me towards it, from amidst all the books it was surrounded by. And as such, it’s been a long time since I’ve enjoyed a book quite as much – I’d have paid $50 for it, without question or qualm.

Beautifully, and maybe somewhat fittingly, the Japanese word for proverb is ‘kotowaza’, which somehow captures the transferrable magic of such utterances, utterances that prove their worth by having no fixed origin, and yet they remain as fresh and true regardless of the century in which they are expressed. As if to reiterate the same point, the Turkish word for proverb is ‘atasozu’, which directly translates to “ancestor word”. Or as Cervantes once so deftly noted, “A proverb is a short sentence based on long experience.”

What it says about the human mind – I’m not going to even try to remotely explain or explore – but the zanier, more Monty Python the proverb, the more it somehow gains its weight and standing in the face of every ephemeral trend. Take a few of the following ‘gleaming picks’ from my recent Japanese acquisition: “The naked man never mislays his wallet.”; “Better cover the fish than chase the cat.”; “Even the prettiest shoe makes a sorry hat.”; “Sparrows know not the dreams of swans.”; “Better a live beggar than a dead millionaire.”

In the same vein, not to mention from the

same geographical neck of the woods, the Korean word for proverb is the delightful term – ‘sogdam’. And what could be more sogdam, in either North or South Korea, for the pure benefit of the rest of the world, than the following two traditional pearls: “When you want to find even dog droppings to use as medicine, there isn’t any.”; “The crayfish always sides with the crab.” And so, as they apparently say in Japan: “Don't ever go to the fishpond without a net.”

Seemingly, the one moral true of all proverbs, is that they don’t so much beg, but demand through their mirth and charm, that we pay attention so as to glean the wisdom of those that have gone before us. Or as the American William R. Alger once suggested, “Proverbs are mental gems gathered in the diamond fields of the mind.” And if not the mind, then certainly the collective heart and imagination of the world. Like a magical spell that could well be uttered by a medieval druid to ward off evil spirits, the following Indonesian proverb deserves to be mentioned in its original form: “Sedikit-sedikit, lama-lama menjadi bukit” which translates to “Little by little, over time, it becomes a hill.” And as if it were drawn from the exact same hymn sheet, the Turks have a saying: “Damlaya damlaya gol olur” or “Drop by drop, it becomes a lake.” Which flows nicely into the shared nature of every great proverb that has guided and inspired us, to reach and see into ourselves as far as we can.

Hero or anti-hero? You decide.

Title: Ned Kelly – The Story of Australia’s most notorious legend

Author: Peter Fitzsimons

Price: $22.99

Distributor: Booktopia

It is strange to think that Australians hold dear one Ned Kelly, a murderer of police, a horse thief and a plunderer of innocent folk.

Many see him as an anti-hero, a Robin Hood type, although I think there was more giving to himself when he stole from the rich and poor alike.

The discussions around Ned Kelly’s legacy have been taken up by wellknown historic author, Peter Fitzsimmons in his chronicle of the famous bushranger.

He follows Kelly in his early days in Beveridge, Victoria, the struggle and harsh background he came from and the possible reasonings for

Bee industry warns Varroa battle threatens food production

By Tim Howard

Commercial beekeepers across northern NSW say the battle against Varroa mite has entered a dangerous new phase, with the pest developing resistance to some of the industry’s most widely used treatments.

The warning comes as NSW Member for Clarence Richie Williamson has called on the state and federal governments to provide greater support for beekeepers, arguing the issue is no longer just about honey production but Australia’s food security.

the path that he took. Fitzsimons and his research team delve into all information about Kelly and bring to life his actions and the repercussions of the law while chasing him down.

Be warned it is a long read but will take you back to the time when Kelly terrorised the Victorian landscape in the 1800s up until his final stand and then his unsurprising execution. With a background in sports and arts, Fitzsimons is one of Australia’s best known non-fiction authors. He has been awarded a Member of the Order of Australia for his services to literature and sports journalism and lives with wife Lisa in Sydney.

You can get your copy of Ned Kelly - The Story of Australia’s most notorious legend from booktopia.com.au

Mr Williamson said Varroa mite was one of the most serious biosecurity threats facing Australian agriculture because honeybees play a critical role in pollinating fruit, vegetable, nut and seed crops.

“If we fail to get on top of it, the consequences will extend well beyond beekeepers—they will be felt throughout our

agricultural sector and ultimately at the supermarket checkout,” he said.

The call follows confirmation that populations of Varroa mite resistant to both pyrethroid and amitrazbased treatments have been detected in NSW and south-east Queensland, reducing the effectiveness of some of the industry’s key chemical controls. Authorities continue to recommend rotating treatments and using integrated pest management to slow the spread of resistance.

Bee Services representative Min Fuller said commercial beekeepers were already seeing the effects.

“This is no longer a future threat—it’s happening now,” she said.

“Commercial beekeepers are losing colonies despite doing everything they’ve been told to do. The cost of treatments, the labour required to manage resistant Varroa,

and the loss of honey and pollination income are pushing many businesses to breaking point.”

Mr Williamson said he had written to NSW Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty seeking greater support for the industry, including federal approval for commercial beekeepers to self-administer organic treatments such as formic acid.

He said beekeepers needed affordable treatment options, financial assistance and quicker regulatory decisions.

Ms Fuller said grants to offset treatment costs, low-interest recovery loans and practical support were urgently needed to prevent more businesses leaving

the industry.

“Without immediate support, more commercial beekeepers will leave the industry, reducing Australia’s pollination capacity and putting our food security at risk,” she said.

The NSW Nationals have pledged $300 million over five years for biosecurity measures if elected at the 2027 state election.

The growing concern over Varroa comes as Australia faces a series of biosecurity challenges, including the recent arrival of highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu on the Australian mainland, highlighting the increasing pressure on the nation’s agricultural industries."

Ballina Students Pitch Bold Ideas to Help Shape the Community's Future

By Robert Heyward

Some of Ballina's brightest young minds have stepped into the spotlight, presenting innovative ideas aimed at tackling local challenges and building a stronger, more connected community.

Students from Ballina Coast High School and Richmond Christian College recently showcased a series of ambitious community projects to Ballina Shire councillors as part of the 2026 Youth Week program, demonstrating that the next generation is already thinking seriously about the future of the region.

The presentations featured a diverse range of ideas designed to improve community wellbeing, address social issues and strengthen local resilience. From technology-driven environmental monitoring to practical support for vulnerable residents, the students tackled real-world challenges with creativity, compassion and fresh thinking.

Among the standout proposals was the concept of using an underwater drone to monitor local waterways, providing valuable information to support environmental management and improve disaster preparedness during floods and severe weather events.

Another group proposed a Clean Clothes Kit initiative to assist people experiencing homelessness by providing access to clean clothing and essential hygiene items, recognising the role dignity and basic necessities play in helping individuals rebuild their lives.

Students also highlighted the importance of supporting younger teenagers as they prepare for future employment, proposing early career guidance programs that would help students explore opportunities, build confidence and develop practical workplace skills before leaving school.

The creation of a

dedicated youth centre for Ballina also featured prominently, with students identifying the need for a safe, inclusive space where young people can gather, access services, participate in activities and strengthen community connections.

The presentations formed an important part of Ballina Shire's Youth Week celebrations, giving students the rare opportunity to present directly to elected councillors while gaining valuable experience in public speaking, project planning and civic participation.

Young Voices Bringing Fresh Perspectives

Ballina Shire Council Social and Community Development Officer Kiara Williams praised both the quality of the ideas and the enthusiasm shown by the participating students.

She said the projects demonstrated genuine creativity, thoughtful problem-solving and a strong commitment to making Ballina an even better place to live.

According to Ms Williams, what impressed organisers most was not simply the originality of the ideas, but the passion behind them, with students carefully identifying community issues and developing practical solutions that could make a real difference.

She said initiatives such as the Youth Week

presentations empower young people by showing them that their voices are valued and that they have an important role to play in shaping the future of their communities.

Ideas Now Move to the Next Stage

The presentations were more than just a showcase of creative thinking.

Students will now continue developing their projects through the Ideas2Life program, where mentoring, coaching and practical guidance will help transform promising concepts into achievable community initiatives.

The program provides participants with the opportunity to refine their proposals, build leadership skills and explore how innovative ideas can become real projects that benefit the wider Ballina community.

Council Encourages Youth Leadership

Ballina Shire Mayor

Sharon Cadwallader said hearing directly from local students provided valuable insight into the issues that matter most to young people.

She said the presentations highlighted the fresh perspectives and innovative thinking young residents bring to community discussions, with many ideas reflecting a genuine desire to improve life across Ballina Shire.

Mayor Cadwallader said Council remains

Free Holiday Program Grants Open for Northern Rivers Youth Activities

FREE HOLIDAY PROGRAM GRANTS OPEN FOR NORTHERN RIVERS YOUTH ACTIVITIES

Community organisations encouraged to apply for funding to deliver free school holiday programs

committed to supporting programs that encourage youth participation, leadership and innovation, recognising that today's students are tomorrow's community leaders, business owners, professionals and decisionmakers.

Investing in Tomorrow's Leaders

Youth engagement programs such as this continue to play an important role in strengthening communities by encouraging young people to become active participants in local decision-making rather than simply observers.

By providing opportunities to collaborate with councillors, community leaders and mentors, students develop confidence, communication skills and a greater understanding of how local government works while seeing firsthand how ideas can influence positive change.

As Ballina continues to grow, initiatives that encourage young people to contribute their ideas help ensure future planning reflects the aspirations of the next generation.

While not every proposal will become a reality, the willingness of these students to step forward, identify challenges and propose practical solutions demonstrates that the future of Ballina is in capable hands.

Community organisations across the Northern Rivers are being encouraged to apply for NSW Government funding to deliver free activities for young people during the upcoming spring and summer school holidays, with grants now available to help create engaging programs that build confidence, encourage participation and strengthen community connections. The NSW Office for Youth's Holiday Break Program is offering grants ranging from $1,500 to $10,000 to eligible organisations delivering structured activities for young people aged 12 to 24 years, with an additional $2,000 available for approved projects in remote or very remote communities.

Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin is encouraging local organisations to take advantage of the funding opportunity, saying the program plays an important role in ensuring young people have access to safe, inclusive and meaningful activities during the school holiday period. She said the grants help communities provide opportunities that keep young people active, connected and engaged while also developing valuable life skills.

"The Holiday Break program supports events and activities that help kids get active and social in the holidays while building their skills and confidence," Ms Saffin said. She added that all activities funded under the program must be offered free of charge, ensuring financial circumstances do not prevent young people from participating.

The funding can support a wide range of initiatives,

including sporting events, arts and cultural workshops, outdoor recreation, leadership programs, wellbeing activities and community events that encourage social inclusion and personal development. Organisers are encouraged to develop programs that are welcoming, accessible and designed to meet the interests and needs of local young people.

A successful local example of the program is the Momentum 2026 All-Female Skateboarding Competition in Lismore, which received support through the NSW Office for Youth Holiday Break Program. The event has provided young women with the opportunity to develop skateboarding skills, build confidence, stay active and form new friendships in a supportive environment. The program demonstrates how government funding can be used to create positive experiences that leave lasting benefits for young people beyond the school holidays.

Eligible applicants include local councils, Aboriginal organisations, not-for-profit organisations and community groups that have the capacity to deliver structured holiday activities. The initiative aims to remove barriers to participation while helping young people remain connected to their communities during the school break.

Applications for the Spring and Summer Holiday Break Program close on Friday, 22 July 2026, with eligible organisations encouraged to prepare their submissions as soon as possible. Successful projects will help provide free, enjoyable and enriching experiences for young people across the Northern Rivers while supporting stronger, healthier and more connected communities. Further information and application details are available through the NSW Office for Youth.

Interest Rate Pause Brings Little Relief as Businesses Continue to Battle Rising Costs

By Jeff Gibbs

The Reserve Bank's decision to leave interest rates unchanged has provided some welcome breathing room for Australian borrowers, but CPA Australia says businesses and households remain under significant financial pressure as the cost of living and operating expenses continue to climb.

While the decision to hold rates offers temporary relief for mortgage holders and businesses carrying debt, CPA Australia warns that it does little to address the broader economic challenges confronting the nation, with inflation, fuel prices and subdued consumer spending continuing to weigh heavily on confidence.

CPA Australia Business and Investment Lead Gavan Ord said the rate pause would be welcomed by many Australians already feeling the impact of higher borrowing costs accumulated over recent years.

However, he said the decision should not be interpreted as a sign that financial pressures have eased.

Businesses Still Feeling the Squeeze

Mr Ord said many businesses continue to face persistent increases in operating costs, making it difficult to restore

profitability despite interest rates remaining on hold.

Inflation remains elevated across many essential goods and services, while fluctuating fuel prices continue to add uncertainty for businesses that rely heavily on transport and logistics. He said weaker consumer confidence was also affecting many sectors, with households increasingly reducing discretionary spending as they prioritise essential expenses.

The result is a challenging business environment where many operators are managing rising costs while experiencing slower sales growth.

Fuel Costs Continue to Hit Regional Australia

CPA Australia says fuel remains one of the biggest financial pressures facing many industries, particularly across regional Australia.

Mr Ord noted that transport operators, tradespeople, farmers and many regional businesses have little choice but to absorb higher fuel costs because fuel is an essential component of day-to-day operations.

Unlike discretionary expenses, fuel cannot simply be reduced when prices increase. Instead, higher fuel prices quickly flow through to freight charges, service costs and ultimately retail prices, adding further pressure to businesses already dealing with increased wages, insurance premiums and

borrowing costs.

For many regional businesses, these combined pressures have left little financial buffer to absorb additional economic shocks.

Consumers Likely to Keep Paying More CPA Australia expects ongoing business cost increases to continue being passed on to consumers.

Mr Ord said businesses can only absorb higher operating costs for so long before price increases become unavoidable.

As businesses seek to remain financially viable, shoppers are likely to continue seeing higher prices across a wide range of goods and services.

The organisation believes this ongoing cycle highlights the delicate

balance businesses face between remaining competitive and maintaining sustainable operations.

Investment Decisions

Delayed

The organisation also says the current economic climate is discouraging investment by many businesses.

Although a reduction in interest rates may have encouraged greater confidence, the decision to hold rates means many business owners remain cautious about expanding operations, employing additional staff or investing in new equipment.

CPA Australia said uncertainty surrounding future economic conditions continues to influence business planning across many industries.

Call for Long-Term Business Reform

Rather than relying solely on monetary policy, CPA Australia is calling for governments to implement long-term reforms that improve Australia's overall business environment.

Mr Ord said reducing unnecessary regulation and cutting compliance costs would provide far greater support for small businesses than short-term economic measures alone.

He said businesses need an environment that encourages productivity, investment and growth

rather than adding to administrative burdens.

Reducing red tape would allow business owners to spend more time serving customers, employing staff and growing their enterprises instead of managing increasingly complex compliance requirements.

Professional Advice More Important Than Ever

CPA Australia is also encouraging businesses and households experiencing financial pressure to seek professional financial advice before problems escalate.

The organisation says qualified accountants can help businesses manage cash flow, reduce financial risk and develop strategies to navigate continuing economic uncertainty.

CPA Australia is also calling on governments to improve access to professional financial advice by introducing incentives that encourage small businesses to obtain expert guidance.

With inflation remaining stubborn, fuel prices unpredictable and consumer confidence still subdued, the organisation believes strengthening business resilience through better planning and long-term economic reform will be critical as Australia continues to navigate a challenging economic environment.

Government Removes Retrospective Foreign Tax Changes Following CPA Australia Campaign

By Jeff Gibbs

The Federal Government has abandoned controversial plans to retrospectively expand Australia's foreign resident capital gains tax (CGT) rules, following sustained advocacy from CPA Australia in a move welcomed by tax professionals, investors and the broader business community.

The revised legislation removes a proposal that would have applied expanded foreign resident CGT rules to transactions dating back to 12 December 2006. Instead, the reforms will apply only

to future transactions, while introducing protections that prevent historical tax assessments from being reopened outside the normal amendment periods.

CPA Australia has described the decision as a significant win for fairness, legal certainty and Australia's reputation as a stable destination for international investment.

The original exposure draft, released earlier this year, attracted widespread concern because it proposed changing the tax treatment of transactions completed almost 20 years ago. CPA Australia argued the retrospective approach

would undermine confidence in Australia's taxation system and create uncertainty for taxpayers who had complied with the law at the time.

Following a detailed submission to Treasury, CPA Australia called for the reforms to apply only prospectively rather than rewriting historical tax obligations.

CPA Australia Tax Lead Jenny Wong welcomed the Government's decision, saying removing the retrospective provisions provides certainty for taxpayers making longterm investment decisions. She also praised new legislative safeguards

preventing the Australian Taxation Office from reopening historical foreign resident CGT assessments outside the normal amendment periods. Exceptions will apply only where fraud or tax evasion is involved, or where reviews, objections or appeals had already commenced before 10 April 2026.

While the retrospective measures have been removed, the legislation still expands Australia's foreign resident capital gains tax regime moving forward.

The reforms broaden the definition of Australian real property to include

interests in land, structures permanently attached to land, certain contractual rights, water entitlements and options. They also extend the principal asset test from 90 days to 365 days and confirm that mining, quarrying and prospecting information will be treated as taxable Australian real property.

CPA Australia said the final legislation demonstrates the value of meaningful consultation between government and industry, although it believes the original two-week consultation period was insufficient for reforms of such complexity.

Ms Wong said earlier engagement with industry experts would help governments identify potential issues before legislation is introduced, ultimately leading to stronger laws and greater certainty for taxpayers. The outcome is expected to reassure foreign investors, multinational businesses and tax advisers by ensuring new tax rules apply only from the commencement of the legislation, avoiding uncertainty around historical transactions while allowing broader reforms to Australia's foreign resident capital gains tax framework to proceed.

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Aboriginal Women on the North Coast to Build Businesses Protecting Country

By Robert Heyward

Sixteen Aboriginal women from the North Coast will receive specialised training, mentoring and business support under a new NSW Governmentfunded program designed to create sustainable businesses while protecting Country and preserving cultural heritage.

The Minns Government has announced an investment of more than $148,000 for Currie Country Social Change's pilot program, Empowering Women for Country: Building Skills in Cultural and Heritage Protection, which aims to equip Aboriginal women with the skills to establish their own environmental management and cultural heritage businesses.

The initiative combines practical qualifications with business development, creating pathways for women to build long-term careers in industries where demand continues to grow across regional New South Wales.

Participants will undertake training in leadership, communications and business development while also gaining nationally recognised certifications in cultural heritage management, drone operations, first aid and four-wheel-drive safety.

The program goes beyond formal qualifications by providing ongoing mentoring, cultural support and opportunities for intergenerational knowledge sharing, helping participants confidently establish and sustain their own microbusinesses grounded in Aboriginal knowledge and cultural practices.

The pilot has been designed to strengthen Aboriginal economic participation while supporting environmental protection and cultural heritage management across the North Coast.

By combining traditional

knowledge with modern skills and business training, the initiative aims to create enterprises that care for Country, preserve Aboriginal culture and generate long-term employment opportunities for women in regional communities.

The funding forms part of the NSW Government's broader commitment to increasing women's participation in business, particularly among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, women living in regional and remote communities, women with disability, carers and women from culturally

and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

Minister for Women

Jodie Harrison said the pilot represented an innovative and culturally grounded approach to supporting Aboriginal women while strengthening environmental protection and cultural heritage management.

She said the initiative would help create sustainable employment opportunities for women who face barriers to entering or re-entering the workforce while building valuable skills that are increasingly in demand across the state.

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty

David Harris said supporting Aboriginalled businesses remained an important part of the NSW Government's commitment to Closing the Gap.

He said programs such as this help Aboriginal women build stronger local economies while ensuring cultural knowledge and traditions continue to be preserved for future generations.

Minister for Small Business and North Coast Janelle Saffin said empowering Aboriginal women to establish businesses

in environmental management created benefits for both local communities and the broader regional economy.

She said the pilot would help create a strong foundation for culturally grounded enterprises while supporting future Aboriginal business leaders across the North Coast.

Currie Country Social Change Chief Executive Officer Arabella Douglas said the funding would help build a First Nations women-led network of environmental, cultural and community enterprises that support one another through leadership, innovation and shared knowledge.

She said the program recognises Aboriginal women are already leading in environmental management, community care and cultural education, and provides the support needed to strengthen their businesses while creating opportunities for future generations.

As demand grows for cultural heritage protection, environmental restoration and disaster resilience across regional Australia, the pilot is expected to deliver lasting social, cultural and economic benefits while helping Aboriginal women lead businesses that protect Country and strengthen communities for years to come.

NSW Invites Public Input to Shape State's Biosecurity Future

By Robert Heyward

Draft 10-year strategy aims to strengthen protection against pests, diseases and invasive species

The NSW Government is calling on farmers, industry, businesses and the wider community to help shape the future of the state's biosecurity system, launching public consultation on a draft strategy that will guide how New South Wales manages biosecurity threats over the next decade.

The Draft NSW Biosecurity Strategy sets out a whole-of-government approach to improving the

prevention, management and response to diseases, pests, weeds and other biosecurity risks, with public feedback now being sought before the final strategy is released later this year.

Biosecurity plays a critical role in protecting New South Wales' $20 billion-plus agricultural sector, native environment, regional communities and economy from emerging threats that can have devastating environmental and financial consequences.

The draft strategy has been developed in response to recommendations from the Natural Resources Commission and former Independent Biosecurity

Commissioner Dr Marion Healy, who called for stronger strategic planning and better coordination across government agencies.

Under the proposal, the Government will focus on four key priorities over the next 10 years: strengthening compliance with biosecurity responsibilities, improving collaboration across government and industry, developing faster and more coordinated responses to emerging threats, and investing in improved biosecurity systems, surveillance and infrastructure.

The strategy also seeks to reinforce the principle that biosecurity is a shared

responsibility, encouraging landholders, industry, local government and the broader community to work together to reduce the risk of new pests, diseases and invasive species establishing in New South Wales.

The consultation follows a series of reforms already introduced through the NSW Biosecurity Action Plan 2025–26, including expanded funding for weed management, the establishment of a dedicated biosecurity compliance and investigations unit, improved regulatory coordination and the creation of a new State Biosecurity Committee to strengthen decision-making

across government.

Minister for Agriculture

Tara Moriarty said a coordinated strategy was essential to ensuring New South Wales remained prepared for increasingly complex biosecurity threats.

She said farmers, industry groups and the community had consistently called for a clear long-term strategy, and the draft provided an important opportunity for people to help shape how biosecurity risks are managed into the future.

NSW Independent Biosecurity Commissioner Dr Katherine Clift said growing international trade, increased travel, environmental change and shifting land use

patterns were creating new pathways for diseases, pests and weeds to enter and spread throughout Australia.

She said a strong, evidence-based strategy would help ensure government investment is directed where it delivers the greatest benefit while improving accountability, transparency and overall system performance.

Public consultation on the Draft NSW Biosecurity Strategy remains open until 29 July 2026, with community feedback helping inform the final strategy and an accompanying implementation roadmap due to be released later this year.

THE INVITE REVIEW

A Smart, Funny

Dinner Party That Serves Up Plenty of Surprises

By Jeff Gibbs

Dinner parties are supposed to be about good food, lively conversation and catching up with friends. In The Invite (2026), however, one seemingly innocent evening quickly transforms into an awkward, funny and surprisingly thoughtprovoking examination of modern relationships. Directed by Olivia Wilde, who also stars in the film, this remake of the acclaimed Spanish comedy The People Upstairs blends sharp humour with emotional honesty to deliver an entertaining characterdriven comedy-drama.

The story centres on Joe (Seth Rogen) and his wife Angela (Olivia Wilde), a married couple whose relationship has become strained by the pressures of everyday life. Hoping for a relaxed evening, they accept a dinner invitation from their charismatic neighbours, Pina (Penélope Cruz) and Hawk (Edward Norton). What

SESSION TIMES

THURSDAY JULY 9 TO WEDNESDAY JULY 15

begins as casual conversation soon takes an unexpected turn when an unusual party game is suggested—everyone places their mobile phones on the dinner table and agrees to share every message, call and notification they receive throughout the evening.

As private conversations become public and longhidden secrets emerge, the atmosphere shifts from friendly banter to uncomfortable confrontation. Relationships are tested, loyalties are questioned and each guest is forced to confront truths they would rather have kept hidden.

Seth Rogen delivers one of his most restrained performances in recent years, balancing his trademark comedic timing with genuine vulnerability. Olivia Wilde gives Angela emotional depth as a woman struggling to reconnect with her husband while navigating increasingly awkward revelations. Penélope Cruz steals many of the film's biggest moments, bringing warmth, confidence and

unpredictability to Pina, while Edward Norton provides a measured and quietly powerful performance as Hawk, whose calm exterior gradually begins to crack.

Director Olivia Wilde wisely allows the dialogue to take centre stage. Rather than relying on elaborate set pieces, the film unfolds almost entirely around the dinner table, where every conversation reveals another layer of each character. The pacing is deliberate, allowing both the comedy and tension to build naturally as the evening spirals further out of control.

Visually, the elegant home setting creates an intimate atmosphere that keeps the audience focused on the performances. Subtle cinematography and understated production design ensure nothing distracts from the sharp script and excellent ensemble cast.

Beneath its humour, The Invite explores contemporary issues surrounding privacy,

honesty, trust and the influence smartphones have on modern relationships. The film asks whether complete transparency is truly healthy or whether some secrets are better left undiscovered. These relatable themes give the story surprising emotional weight while still delivering plenty of laughs.

Although some viewers may wish for a faster-paced conclusion, the film succeeds because it feels authentic.

The awkward conversations, uncomfortable silences and emotional outbursts are all grounded in situations many couples and friends can recognise.

The Invite is an intelligent, witty and engaging comedydrama driven by four outstanding performances. Rather than relying on spectacle, it finds humour and tension in everyday relationships, making it an enjoyable film for audiences who appreciate smart dialogue and character-focused storytelling.

SPECIAL SCREENINGS

LA HAINE (MA15+) Tues: 6:30PM – Cult Vault

TAXI DRIVER - 50TH

ANNIVERSARY (R18+ Mon: 6:30PM – Cult Vault

FAMILY FILMS

CATS IN THE MUSEUM 2: TREASURES OF EGYPT PG) Daily: 11:00AM

MINIONS & MONSTERS (PG) Daily: 10:45AM, 12:40PM, 2:40PM, 5:30PM MOANA PG) NFT

Daily: 10:40AM, 1:00PM, 3:30PM, 6:00PM, 7:00PM

TOY STORY 5 (G Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun: 10:30AM, 12:50PM, 3:10PM, 4:45PM, 7:30PM. Mon, Tues, Wed:

10:30AM, 11:20AM, 12:50PM, 3:10PM, 4:45PM, 7:30PM.

ALL FILMS

BACKROOMS: EVERYTHING MUST GO EDITION (M) Daily except Sun: 8:20PM. Sun: 8:00PM

DISCLOSURE DAY M) Daily except Wed: 11:00AM, 2:00PM, 7:20PM. Wed: 11:00AM, 2:00PM, 6:30PM, 7:20PM

EVIL DEAD BURN (R18+) NFT Daily: 3:50PM, 6:10PM, 8:30PM

GLENROTHAN (M Daily: 11:20AM

JACKASS: BEST AND LAST (MA15+) Daily except Tues: 1:45PM, 3:40PM, 8:30PM. Tues: 1:45PM, 3:40PM, 8:45PM

MICHAEL (PG) Daily: 1:00PM, 5:45PM OBSESSION MA15+ Daily: 5:00PM, 8:20PM SUPERGIRL M) Thurs, Fri, Sat: 1:30PM. Sun: 1:30PM, 8:20PM. Mon: 1:30PM, 3:50PM. Tues: 1:30PM, 3:50PM, 8:30PM. Wed: 1:30PM, 4:10PM THE CHRISTOPHERS (MA15+) Daily: 11:30AM THE INVITE (MA15+) NFT Daily: 11:10AM, 1:30PM, 3:50PM, 6:15PM, 8:30PM THE MUSICIANS PG Mon, Tues: 1:40PM. Wed: 1:50PM

TUNER MA15+ Daily except Tues: 3:50PM, 6:10PM. Tues: 3:50PM, 6:30PM

DISCLOSURE DAY M) Daily: 4:15PM

JACKASS: BEST AND LAST (MA15+) Daily: 7:15PM MINIONS & MONSTERS PG) Daily: 9:45AM, 11:50AM, 5:00PM MOANA (PG NFT Daily: 10:00AM, 12:00PM, 2:30PM, 7:00PM THE INVITE MA15+ NFT Daily: 1:50PM, 5:00PM, 7:15PM TOY STORY 5 (G Daily: 9:50AM, 12:30PM, 2:45PM

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 Which song by U2 starts with the words, “I want to run, I want to hide”?

(a) Beautiful Day (b) Sunday Bloody Sunday (c) With or Without You (d) Where the Streets Have No Name

2 In which year did Mt Vesuvius erupt, burying the ancient Roman city of Pompeii?

(a) 412 BC (b) 79 BC (c) 79 AD (d) 412 AD

3 Who won the 2025 Mexican Formula One Grand Prix?

(a) Charles Leclerc (b) Max Verstappen (c) Oscar Piastri (d) Lando Norris

4 What was the official currency of Latvia before the Euro? (a) Latvian tolar (b) Latvian koruna (c) Latvian lira (d) Latvian lats

5 Clint Eastwood won his first Academy Award for Best Director for which movie? (a) Mystic River (b) Million Dollar Baby (c) Unforgiven (d) Letters from Iwo Jima

6 What is the nationality of professional tennis player Caroline Wozniacki? (a) Danish (b) German (c) Russian (d) Polish

WEEKLY CROSSWORD

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 ASPERITY

(a) Roughness

(b) Derogatory criticism

(c) Ambitious desire

2 FIRMAMENT

(a) A fixed belief

(b) The sky

(c) The manner in which a thing is formed

3 LOUR

(a) A dark threatening appearance

(b) A cloth mask covering only half the face

(c) A decoy or bait

4 NICTITATE

(a) To build a nest

(b) To wink

(c) To give a nickname to

5 POLLEX

(a) The thumb

(b) An area on a bee’s leg for carrying pollen

(c) Corn meal

BEST ON THE BOX

SUNDAY

FARMER WANTS A WIFE

SEVEN, 7pm

The time has come to leave behind the akubras, Blundstones and spurs – at least for a night – as the farmers and their potential partners are off to Sydney for a glamorous black-tie dinner. The blokes do their best James Bond impressions in tuxedos and the ladies are dressed to the nines, offering everyone the chance to see each other in a new light. However, for some, that fresh perspective (and seeing their rival’s rapport with the farmers) will cause them to question their own connections. As a life-changing decision looms, emotions run high for Jarrad, Zac, Dylan and Jason (above, from left) as they consider whether to follow their heart or their head.

FRIDAY, July 10

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Compass. (R) 10.30 Stu The British Stole. (PG, R) 11.00 Race Around The World. (Ml, R)

12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Portrait Artist Of The Year. (PG, R) 1.45 Ground Up. (Ml, R)

2.20 The Assembly. (PG, R) 3.00 Restoration Australia. (PG, R) 4.00 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGv, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (PG, R)

6.25 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

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

7.30 Monty Don’s British Gardens. Monty Don explores London’s most beautiful gardens.

8.30 Saint-Pierre. (Mv) Fitz and Arch engage in a game of cat and mouse as they race to determine an assassin’s target.

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

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

10.25 ABC Late News.

10.40 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)

11.15 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGv, R)

12.00 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

MONDAY TRAVEL GUIDES

NBN, 7.30pm

From the Seven Wonders of the World to the wackiest travel experiences on offer, this unfiltered reality series has seen and done it all, complete with buying the cheesy souvenirs to take home. But let’s be honest, some of the best destinations on Earth are in our own backyard. To prove it, the Guides are heading on a scenic road trip along the New South Wales south coast – bringing Island Australia Hibberd and Callum Hole (right) along for the ride. It’s good clean fun as they depart Sydney in electric vehicles and set their GPS for the laidback towns of Jamberoo, Kiama, Nowra, Bateman’s Bay and Narooma.

WEDNESDAY ALONE AUSTRALIA

SBS, 7.30pm

No one could accuse this extreme survival series of going easy on its contestants, but just in case, the producers of this latest

While earlier seasons have dropped survival experts into the wilderness of Tasmania and New Zealand, this fourth Aussie edition takes 10 participants (including Lillian, above) to Sápmi, Finland, and leaves them to their own devices in an unfamiliar Arctic environment where hunting is forbidden and temperatures are subzero. In Wednesday’s double-episode premiere, the participants are dropped off and start making camps.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. The weekly winners return.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 MOVIE: Journey Home, David Gulpilil. (2025, Ml, R) In the last chapter of the late David Gulpilil’s story, Yolngu culture-keepers, senior men and women, family and clan lay him to rest. Danzal Baker, Hugh Jackman.

9.20 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 7. Hagetmau to Bordeaux. 175.1km at stage. From France.

1.55 Great British Railway Journeys: Tewkesbury To Filton. (R) Presented by Michael Portillo.

2.30 Mirusia: Live In Concert. (R)

4.00 Tradfest: The Dublin Castle Sessions. (R) 4.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Quarter- nal.

VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 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: Lemony Snicket’s A Series Of Unfortunate Events. (2004, PG) 9.20 Caper Crew. 10.05 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 10.55 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Morning Programs.

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

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

8.00 MOVIE: Where The Crawdads Sing. (2022, Masv, R) A girl who raised herself in dangerous marshlands nds herself the prime suspect in a murder. Daisy Edgar-Jones, Taylor John Smith, David Strathairn. 10.35 To Be Advised.

12.15 MOVIE: Out Of Line. (2001, Mlsv, R) A parole o cer falls for one of her charges. Jennifer Beals.

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

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

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2pm Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 5. Highlights. 3.00 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 6. Highlights. 4.05 BBC News At Ten. 4.35 France 24. 5.05 PBS News. 6.05 Inside The Huddle. 6.35 Over The Black Dot. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Cup Fever! 9.00 Mysteries Unearthed. 9.50 Wogball: Australia’s Beautiful Game. 11.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Round of 16. USA v Belgium. Replay. 2am NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera. 6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Animal Rescue. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 The Great Australian Doorstep. 2.30 Weekender. 3.00 Imagine Holidays Iconic Rail Journeys. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Animal Rescue. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.

7MATE (64) SBS MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 1.35pm ER. 2.20 Father Brown. 3.05 QI. 3.35 Would I Lie To You? 4.05 MythBusters.

6.00 9News.

7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 19. Wests Tigers v New Zealand Warriors. From Campbelltown Sports Stadium, Sydney.

9.55 NRL Friday Night Footy Post-Match. Post-match coverage and analysis of the NRL game between the Wests Tigers and New Zealand Warriors.

10.45 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 12. Semi- nals.

12.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 12 Late. Semi- nals.

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) Skippy nds a valuable necklace.

4.30 Global Shop. (R) Home shopping.

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Postcards. (PG, R) Lauren visits some long-running Richmond businesses.

Always Rains On Sunday. (1947,

Yorkshire Auction House. 6.00 Antiques Roadshow. 7.00 Escape To The Chateau. 8.00 MOVIE: Monster-In-Law. (2005, M) 10.00 Wimbledon 2026 Pre-Show.

9GO! (83) 6am Bedevil. Continued. (1993, PG) 6.40 Lord Of The Flies. (1963, PG) 8.20 The Lady Vanishes. (1938, PG) 10.15 A United Kingdom. (2016, PG) 12.20pm The Tracker. (2002, M) 2.10 Master Cheng: A Spice For Life. (2019, PG) 4.15 Storm Boy. (1976, PG) 5.55 Whale Rider. (2002, PG) 7.50 We Are Still Here. (2022, M) 9.30 Charlie’s Country. (2013, M) 11.30 An Un nished Life. (2005, M) 1.30am Hope Springs. (2012, M) 3.20 The Tracker. (2002, M) 5.10 Master Cheng: A Spice For Life. (2019, PG)

6am Morning Programs. 11.30

Rugby Heaven. 12.30pm Motor Racing. IndyCar Series. Round 11. Indy 200 at Mid-Ohio. Highlights. 1.35 Snackmasters. 3.00 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 MOVIE: Harry Potter And The Prisoner Of Azkaban. (2004, PG) 10.20 MOVIE: Dumb Money. (2023, MA15+) 12.25am Arrow. 3.45 My Way. 4.00 Barbie It Takes Two. 4.30 Barney’s World. 4.50 LEGO Friends: Heartlake Stories. 5.10

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

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

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

7.30 Selling Houses Australia. (PGa, R) Mary and Tom nally purchased a dream home.

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

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

10.40 The Big Bang Theory. (PGs, R) 11.30 10 News+. (R) Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

COMEDY (52)

SATURDAY, July 11

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

6.00 Rage Charts. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Rage. (PG) 10.30 Rage Vault Guest Programmer. (PG) 12.00 ABC News At Noon.

12.30 Cooper & Fry. (M, R) 2.05 Saint-Pierre. (Mv, R) 2.55 Bill Bailey’s Wild West Australia. (PG, R) 3.40 Gri ’s Canadian Adventure. (R) 4.30 Stu The British Stole. (PG, R) 5.00 Australian Story. (R) 5.35 Landline. (R)

6.00 Kath & Kim. (PGals, R) Sharon is anxious to be a godmother.

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) Presenter Tom Gleeson grills four self-declared experts in a comedic quiz show.

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Cooper & Fry. (M) Cooper and Fry investigate the death of a girl.

9.05 Doc Martin. (PGa, R) The surgery is chaotic with both Martin and Louisa now practising from it.

9.50 The Capture. (MA15+v, R) As the scale of the conspiracy reveals itself, Carey makes a surprising decision.

10.55 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) Continuous music programming.

6.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Quarter- nal. Cont. 7.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Round of 16. SUI v COL. Replay. 10.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Quarter- nal. FRA v MAR. Replay. 1.30 Al Jazeera. 2.00 BBC News At Ten. 2.30 France 24. 3.00 PBS News. 4.00 FIFA World Cup 2026: Highlights Show. 4.30 Grand Tours Of Scotland’s Rivers. (R) 5.30 Cycling. Tour de France. H’lights.

6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Jewels Of The Mediterranean: Hvar. (PGa) 8.25 National Parks From Above: Ireland. (R) A tour of Ireland’s two largest landlocked parks.

9.20 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 8. 2.00 Snowpiercer. (MA15+v, R)

3.45 Bamay. (R) 4.20 Tradfest: The Dublin Castle Sessions. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 11.05 Sesame Street. 11.30 Wiggle. 11.45 Andy And The Band. 1.30pm PJ Masks. 1.50 Kangaroo Beach. 2.30 The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 3.25 Octonauts. 4.10 Dino Dex. 5.10 Isadora Moon. 6.05 PJ Masks. 6.25 Emerald. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.30 Kids Baking C’ship. 8.10 Kids BBQ Championship. 8.55 Chopped Jnr. 10.00 Fresh O The Boat. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Morning Programs. 3pm Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 7. Highlights. 4.05 BBC News At Ten. 4.30 France 24. 5.00 PBS News. 6.10 Mastermind Aust. 6.40 The Mega-Brands That Built The World. 7.35 Abandoned Americana. 8.30 Cup Fever! 9.00 The Expanse. (Premiere) 11.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Round of 16. Argentina v Egypt. Replay. 2am NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Motor Racing. Supercars C’ship. Townsville 500. Qualifying. 2.00 Motor Racing. Supercars C’ship. Townsville 500. Pre-race and race. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens.

8.00 The Great Outdoors. (PG) The team wanders with wol ounds through Ireland.

8.30 MOVIE: The Lost World: Jurassic Park. (1997, PGv, R) A team visits an island of dinosaurs. Je Goldblum, Julianne Moore.

11.05 To Be Advised.

12.45 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 7. Townsville 500. Day 1. Qualifying. Highlights.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 It’s Academic. (R) 5.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

7TWO (62)

6am Shopping. 8.30 Better Homes. 10.30 Auction Squad. 11.30 GetOn Extra. Noon Horse Racing. Royal Randwick, Caul eld and Doomben Racedays. 5.00 Dog Patrol. 5.30 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. 6.30 Bondi Vet. 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Lewis. 10.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Australia’s Best Backyards. 12.30am Auction Squad. 1.30 The Great Australian Doorstep. 2.00 Late Programs.

(8, 80)

6.00 Getaway. (PG, R) 6.30 ACA. (R) 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Today Extra:

6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 MOVIE: The Notebook. (2004, PGals, R) An old man reads a love story. Rachel McAdams, Ryan Gosling.

10.00 MOVIE: The Blind Side. (2009, PGdlv, R) A homeless teenager becomes a gridiron player. Sandra Bullock.

12.30 Wimbledon 2026 Pre-Show.

1.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 13 Late. Women’s nal.

4.00 Great Australian Detour Snow. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)

9GEM (82)

6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Charlotte is looking for a dog to give her best friend, Zeke the pug, some love. Narrated by Dr Chris Brown. 7.30 Selling Houses Australia. (PGa) Jacquie and John have owned a main street pub for 14 years but are looking for someone to take over. 9.40 Ambulance UK. (Mal, R) Multiple resources are dispatched to a

DRAMA (51)

10.20 Numb3rs. 12.15am JAG. 2.15 Home Shopping. 6am Morning Programs. 11.00 MOVIE: For Better, For Worse. (1954) 12.45pm MOVIE: My Brother Jonathan. (1948) 3.00 MOVIE: Paci c Destiny. (1956) 5.00 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 2. Sydney Roosters v Newcastle Knights. 7.00 Customs. 7.30 MOVIE: Under Siege. (1992, M) 9.40 MOVIE: The Deer Hunter. (1978, MA15+) 1.25am Late Programs.

ABC ENTERTAINS (23)

SBS MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 2.40pm My Family. 3.10 Whose Line Is It Anyway? 3.30 QI. 4.00 Would I Lie To You? 4.30 MythBusters. 5.20 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent. 6.10 Grand Designs: Streets. 7.00 Spicks And Specks. 7.30 QI. 8.00 Would I Lie To You? 8.30 Live At The Apollo. 9.15 Arrested Development. 10.20 ER. 11.05 My Family. 11.35 Rage. 12.35am Small Prophets. 1.10 Late Programs.

7MATE (64)

6am Morning Programs. 12.30pm Timbersports. STIHL Series. Replay. 1.00 Blokesworld. 1.30 The Car Club. 2.00 Motor Racing. NDRC Nitro Funny Cars. Round 1. Spring Nationals. Highlights. 3.00 Motor Racing. Night Thunder. High Limits World Tour. Night 1. Replay. 4.00 Football. AFL. Round 18. GWS Giants v Geelong. 7.00 Storage Wars. 7.30 MOVIE: Apollo 13. (1995, PG) 10.25 MOVIE: Black Sea. (2014, M) 1am Late Programs.

9GO! (83)

6am Morning Programs. 4.30pm Rugby Union. Nations C’ship. AUS v FRA. 7.30 Nations Championship: Australia v France Post-Match. 8.00 MOVIE: The Hobbit: The Desolation Of Smaug. (2013, M) 11.40 The Lord Of The Rings: The Rings Of Power. 12.55am Prodigal Son. 2.35 MOVIE: Christmess. (2023, M) 4.30 Barney’s World. 4.50 Cry Babies Magic Tears. 5.10 Mia & Codie. 5.30 Wild Manes.

6am Master Cheng: A Spice For Life. Continued. (2019, PG) 7.15 Whale Rider. (2002, PG) 9.10 Born To Dance. (2015, PG) 11.00 We Are Still Here. (2022, M) 12.40pm The Lady Vanishes. (1938, PG) 2.35 Bedevil. (1993, PG) 4.15 Philadelphia. (1993, PG) 6.35 The NeverEnding Story. (1984) 8.30 Bridge Of Spies. (2015) 11.10 Late Programs. 5.50am Philadelphia. (1993, PG) COMEDY (52)

11.30 Ridiculousness. 1pm Friends. 6.00 The Big Bang Theory. 10.30 Ridiculousness. Midnight Home Shopping.

(53) NITV (34) SBS FOOD (33)

(Return) 6.35 Dinner With Gavin Rossdale. (Premiere) 7.35 Ultimate Veg. 8.30 Road To Mexico. 9.40 Food Trip Down Under. 10.35 Eating Inn. 11.30 Late Programs.

SUNDAY, July 12

TV (2)

6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Insiders. 10.00 O siders. 10.30 World This Week. (R) 11.00 Compass. (R) 11.30 Songs Of Praise. 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Monty Don’s British Gardens. (R) 2.30

6.30 Compass: Reviving The Mullet Run.

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Race Around The World. The racers y o to destinations separately. 8.30 Ground Up. (Final, Ml) Hugh’s dog is kidnapped and the football department’s database is hacked. 9.05 The Capture. (Final, MA15+v) Carey is drawn deeper into Simon’s plan.

10.20 Cooper & Fry. (Ma, R)

11.55 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

2.45 Poh’s Kitchen. (R)

3.15 Doc Martin. (PGa, R)

4.05 Antiques Roadshow. (PG, R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

9LIFE (84)

6am Morning Programs. 11.45 Stompem Ground 2022: Footprince. 12.10pm The Whole Table. 1.10 Nula. 1.40 Guardians Of The Wild. 2.30 Over The Black Dot. 3.00 Homesteads. 3.35 The Frontier. 4.30 Faboriginal. 5.00 Larapinta. 6.00 Home, Land & Sea. 6.40 The Other Side. 7.30 Alone Australia. 8.30 MOVIE: Emu Runner. (2018, PG) 10.15 Australian Music Vault: Vika And Linda Bull. 11.35 Late Programs.

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6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Ei el Tower: Life Behind The Scenes: Pt 2. (PG)

8.30 Mont-Saint-Michel: Rising Again. (R) Looks at Mont-Saint-Michel, a triumph of technical prowess, spiritual ambition and architectural audacity.

9.30 Cycling. Tour de France. Stage 9.

2.30 Putin’s Crisis. (Mav, R)

3.30 Britain’s Most Expensive Houses. (PGl, R) 4.25 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 Euronews. 5.30 PBS News Horizons.

(31) 6am Children’s Programs. 3pm Play School. 3.30 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 4.25 Little J And Big Cuz. 4.50 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.15 Tabby McTat. 5.40 Super Monsters. 6.05 PJ Masks. 6.25 Emerald. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.30 The Inbestigators. 7.45 The Lady Grace Mysteries. (Premiere) 8.10 Epic Adventures With Bertie Gregory. (Premiere) 8.50 Animal Park. 10.20 Secrets Of The Zoo. 11.05 Late Programs.

ABC ENTERTAINS (23)

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGal)

8.30 7NEWS Spotlight. Focuses on long-form investigations. 9.30 7NEWS: Disappearance Of William Tyrrell. (R) 10.50 Autopsy USA. (Ma, R) 11.50 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 7. Townsville 500. Day 2. Qualifying. Highlights. 12.50 Angelyne. (Ml) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 LEGO Masters Bricktacular. (PG) 8.30 60 Minutes. Current a airs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues a ecting all Australians. 9.30 9News Late.

10.00 The First 48: Thick As Thieves. (Malv) Two people are killed in a home invasion.

11.00 Love Cheats. (Mal)

12.00 Getaway. (PG, R)

12.30 Wimbledon 2026 Pre-Show.

1.00 Tennis. Wimbledon. Day 14 Late. Men’s nal.

5.00 Today Early News.

5.30 Today.

(82) 7TWO (62)

Master. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 Better Homes. 3.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 4.30 My Greek Odyssey. 5.30 Australia’s Best Backyards. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 The Coroner. 8.30 Vera. 10.30 Landscapers. (Premiere) 11.30 Late Programs.

7MATE (64) SBS MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 2.35pm My Family. 3.10 Whose Line Is It Anyway? 3.30 QI. 4.00 Would I Lie To You? 4.30 MythBusters. 5.20 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent. 6.10 Grand Designs: Streets. 7.00 Spicks And Specks. 7.30 QI. 8.00 Would I Lie To You? 8.30 Amazing Spaces. (Final) 9.20 Race Around The World. 10.20 ER. 11.05 O siders. 11.35 My Family. 12.05am Rage. 1.10 Late Programs.

6.30 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 7.00 MasterChef Australia. (PG) Former contestant Marion Grasby returns to the kitchen and set the contestants a mystery box challenge. 8.15 Watson.

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9GO! (83) 6am Philadelphia. Continued. (1993, PG) 8.10 Master Cheng: A Spice For Life. (2019, PG) 10.15 Bridge Of Spies. (2015) 12.55pm My Summer Of Love. (2004, M) 2.30 Whale Rider. (2002, PG) 4.25 The Orator. (2011, PG, Samoan) 6.30 To Catch A Thief. (1955, PG) 8.30 Butcher’s Crossing. (2022) 10.30 Unfaithful. (2002, MA15+) 12.45am Rambo: First Blood Part II. (1985, MA15+) 2.35 Late Programs. COMEDY (52)

6am Morning Programs. 9.10 Australian Ninja Warrior. 1.10pm Motor Racing. FIA World Endurance Championship. 24 Hours of Le Mans. Highlights. 2.20 Sur ng Aust. 2.50 The Summit. 5.30 MOVIE: Dennis The Menace. (1993, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Inception. (2010, M) 10.30 MOVIE: Rambo: Last Blood. (2019, MA15+) 12.25am Arrow. 3.45 The Summit. 5.10 Hop. 5.30 Beyblade Burst QuadStrike. 6am Hook, Line And Sinker. 7.00 Fishy Business. 7.30 Creek To Coast. 8.00 Counting Cars. 9.00 American Resto. 10.00 Pawn Stars. 11.00 Storage Wars. 11.30 Step Outside. Noon Sunday Footy Feast. 2.30 Fish’n Mates. 3.00 Counting Cars. 4.00 American Resto. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Border Security: Int. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 MOVIE: White House Down. (2013, M) 11.15 Late Programs. 6am Good Chef Bad Chef. 7.00 Deal Or No Deal. 9.30 Family Feud. 1pm Friends. 6.00 The Big Bang Theory. 10.30 Ridiculousness. Midnight Home Shopping.

It

VICTORY HOTEL

5909 TWEED VALLEY WAY, MOOBALL NSW 2483

FOR SALE BY EXPRESSION OF INTEREST CLOSING: 1PM, THURSDAY 6 AUGUST 2026

• Rare Byron Hinterland Freehold Going Concern Hotel

• 9 x highly valuable Band 1 GME’s included on licence

• Generating ~$45,000* average weekly turnover across bar, bistro & gaming

• 20 minutes* from Byron Bay and 15 minutes* from Tweed Heads

• Heritage-character asset with 6 x accommodation rooms

• Turn-key offering requiring minimal capex expenditure

• Neighbouring an approved 261-lot master residential precinct

• Loyal local catchment & strong visitor trade from local tourism precincts

*Approx.

425 287 ben.kennedy@htlproperty.com

XAVIER PLUNKETT 0402 915 824

xavier.plunkett@htlproperty.com

TARGET TIME

I P O

T

G

I T

N E

Today’s target: 10 words average 17 words good 26+ 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)

Is honesty always the best policy? Is it always appropriate to be fearlessly frank? Your natural inclination is to be incredibly blunt, but not everyone is ready for your brand of audacious Aries truth serum. Mercury is reversing through your domestic zone, so a dollop of discretion and a pinch of diplomacy will smooth troubled waters at home and within your family circle. When it comes to friends, clever Rams will talk a lot less and listen a lot more.

TAURUS (Apr 20 - May 20)

This week Venus (your ruling planet) shifts into your creativity and friendship zones. So put aside regular time for music, art and beauty, work hard on a creative project or catch up with a special friend. Plus – with Chiron (minor planet of healing) now transiting through your sign – try to view personal transformation as terrific, rather than terrifying. Be inspired by birthday great, His Holiness the Dalai Lama (who turns 91 on Monday): “True change is within.”

GEMINI (May 21 - June 20)

Mercury (your ruling planet) is retrograde until July 24. Mercury is the planet of clear thinking, communication (talking, texting and writing), transport, travel, commuting, commerce, computers, media and the internet. So, the next couple of weeks is 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.

CANCER (June 21 - July 22)

With Mercury reversing through your sign until July 24, other people will be blunter and more insensitive than usual, and you’ll feel moodier and more sensitive than usual. So clever Crabs will require extra patience, understanding, confidence and self-belief – in spades! Your motto for the moment is from birthday great, Mexican painter Frida Kahlo: “Fall in love with yourself, with life.” The weekend is wonderful for socialising in your local community.

LEO (July 23 - Aug 22)

The week starts with taskmaster Saturn squaring the Sun (your ruling planet), which could throw a tricky challenge your way. But don’t worry, Cats. Venus and Jupiter are both transiting through your sign, so it’s time to present a sunny, positive face to the world as you express your warm, generous, loving nature. Be inspired by His Holiness the Dalai Lama (who was born on July 6, 1935): “Forgive others … be kind, honest and have positive thoughts.”

VIRGO (Aug 23 - Sep 22)

Your very discreet Virgo nature is emphasised, as Mercury (your power planet) reverses through your peer group zone, and Venus spends most of the week in your solitude zone. Make it a priority to connect with like-minded people who understand your specific peccadillos and strong need for privacy. But a loved one could be temperamental, so handle them with extra care. And don’t skip over important details – get someone you trust to help you out.

LIBRA (Sep 23 - Oct 22)

Are you running on empty? Diplomatic Librans will strive to get the ratio right between being on top of things at work, while still having time to rest, reflect and recharge your run-down batteries. Mercury is reversing through your career zone, so relations with a colleague, client or customer could be stressful and problematic, particularly if you try to control an uncontrollable situation. Expect the unexpected and keep your adaptability muscles well-flexed!

SCORPIO (Oct 23 - Nov 21)

If you stir up grievances with an old adversary, then you could find you’ve bitten off more than you can comfortably chew! When it comes to a frustrating problem, avoid quick fixes. You’ll find a satisfactory solution if you take the time to think things through. Lucky Venus and prosperous Jupiter are visiting your professional zone. So, confidence is in and procrastination is out, as you go after what you want with passion, purpose and patience.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 - Dec 21)

Mercury (planet of communication) is retrograde until July 24. So, think – carefully – before you speak and act. And avoid getting drawn into dramatic disputes with family and friends, especially involving money and/or possessions. This week will work best if you curb your Sagittarian curiosity, keep out of other people’s business, hold your tongue, and concentrate on pursuing personal projects instead. Friday favours fostering professional connections.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 - Jan 19)

This week Mercury reverses through your partnership zone and the Sun squares Saturn in your family zone. So close relationships will be a complicated minefield. Don’t allow a loved one to manipulate you, as they try to persuade you to do something against your better judgment. Have the common sense and emotional strength to stand your ground and say no (without being bossy, and controlling yourself – which is a tricky juggle). Balance is the key.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 - Feb 18)

The Sun and retrograde Mercury stir up your daily routine and your relationships with work colleagues, so expect some surprising developments and stressful moments. Resist the urge to be controversial, argumentative and self-indulgent. Try to ground your unpredictable energy and calm your mind. Meditation, contemplation, yoga, chanting or Tai Chi could be just what the doctor ordered! The weekend is good for vivid dreams and intuitive insights.

PISCES (Feb 19 - Mar 20) Mercury is retrograde, so hidden tensions could bubble to the surface with a child, teenager, lover or friend. Be extra diplomatic and try not to take criticism personally. Social media is also a potential minefield, as retro Mercury messes up communication. Be careful you don’t send the wrong message to the wrong person at the wrong time! Heed the wise words of birthday great, his Holiness the Dalai Lama: “Silence is sometimes the best answer.”

Women Over 40 – The Cabaret Set to Make Northern Rivers Debut at Byron Theatre

By Jeff Gibbs

A new musical comedy celebrating the humour, resilience and life experiences of women over 40 will make its Northern Rivers premiere this October, with Women Over 40 – The Cabaret set to take the stage at Byron Theatre for two performances.

Running on October 2 and 3, 2026, the production brings together an allfemale cast in a lively blend of comedy, music and storytelling that explores the realities of middle age with honesty, warmth and plenty of laughter.

Written by award-winning New Zealand playwright Lindsey Brown and directed by Olga Tamara, the contemporary cabaret shines a spotlight on the everyday challenges, unexpected triumphs and shared experiences of women navigating life beyond 40.

Through a mix of comic monologues, original songs

and candid reflections, the production celebrates friendship, resilience and the confidence that often comes with age. While tackling subjects familiar to many women, the show approaches them with

humour and optimism, delivering an evening designed to entertain while encouraging audiences to laugh at life's inevitable twists and turns.

The cast features experienced performers

Cass Eager, Cathy Levins, Joy Miller, Olga Tamara and Emily Turner, with musical accompaniment by Anna Honeychurch.

Playwright Lindsey Brown said the production was both a celebration and a

reminder of the strength that comes from lived experience.

She said the cabaret acknowledged the challenges many women face during middle age while highlighting the

wisdom, friendships and resilience developed along the way.

Rather than dwelling on hardship, the production embraces humour and selfacceptance, encouraging audiences to find joy in the realities of everyday life. Women Over 40 – The Cabaret will make its world premiere at Byron Theatre before embarking on a planned national tour in 2027.

Organisers say the production is aimed not only at women over 40 but also at anyone who appreciates clever comedy, engaging live music and heartfelt storytelling. Early Bird tickets are available throughout July, with general ticket sales scheduled to begin in August.

The two-night season offers Northern Rivers audiences the first opportunity to experience the new Australian production ahead of its planned tour across the country next year.

Regional Australia Booms as Record Numbers Leave Capital Cities Behind

By Jeff Gibbs

Australia's love affair with regional living has reached a new milestone, with more people than ever before choosing to swap the hustle of the nation's capital cities for the lifestyle, affordability and opportunities offered by regional communities.

The latest Regional Movers Index (RMI), released by the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) and the Regional Australia Institute (RAI), reveals that the March 2026 quarter recorded the strongest shift towards regional Australia since the index began.

The report found Australians moving from capital cities to regional areas outnumbered those making the journey in reverse by 29.7 per cent, highlighting a long-term trend that continues to reshape the nation's population and economy.

The March quarter result represented a 20.1 per cent increase compared with the December 2025 quarter and was 4.7 per cent higher than the same period a year earlier, reinforcing that regional migration remains well beyond a postpandemic phenomenon.

Sydneysiders Lead the Regional Exodus Sydney continues to account for the largest share of Australians relocating to regional areas, representing 55 per cent of all net departures from capital cities during the quarter.

Melbourne followed with 36 per cent of net outflows, although both cities' combined share has eased slightly over the past year as increasing numbers of residents from Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide also embrace regional living.

The figures suggest the desire to relocate is becoming more widespread across Australia rather than being concentrated in the nation's two largest cities.

Regional Australia Institute Chief Executive Officer Liz Ritchie said the latest figures confirmed that regional Australia

had become a permanent destination of choice for many Australians.

She said the movement had remained remarkably resilient through COVID-19, rising inflation, housing affordability pressures and changing labour markets, demonstrating that people were making considered, long-term lifestyle decisions rather than shortterm moves.

Ms Ritchie said the record migration figures reinforced the need for governments to adopt a coordinated national approach to planning for population growth, ensuring housing, infrastructure and essential services keep pace with increasing demand.

Sunshine Coast Still Australia's Favourite Queensland's Sunshine Coast retained its position as Australia's most popular regional destination, attracting 8.8 per cent of total net migration despite a slight decline from previous quarters.

Greater Geelong remained among the country's leading destinations, accounting for 5.3 per cent of net migration, while the Fraser Coast, Moorabool in Victoria and Lake

Macquarie in New South Wales rounded out the top five.

However, the report shows growth is becoming far more geographically diverse.

Regional hotspots are now emerging across nearly every Australian state, with communities such as Toowoomba, Broome, Townsville, Mid-Coast NSW, Meander Valley in Tasmania, Douglas in Far North Queensland and Central Goldfields in Victoria all recording significant increases in new residents.

Toowoomba Emerges as a Standout

One of the strongest performers was Toowoomba, which recorded the largest yearon-year increase in net migration from Australia's capital cities of any local government area in the country.

The Queensland regional centre has become an increasingly attractive destination thanks to its growing economy, employment opportunities, expanding education sector and comparatively affordable housing.

Importantly, Toowoomba is also attracting people relocating from other regional communities,

highlighting its emergence as a major inland service hub supporting surrounding districts.

Economic Benefits Flow to Regional Communities

The continued population shift is also delivering significant economic benefits for regional Australia.

Commonwealth Bank Regional and Agribusiness

Banking Executive General Manager Kylie Allen said the migration figures reflected Australians making long-term commitments to regional communities.

She said growing populations were creating opportunities for local

businesses, with increasing demand for housing, retail, hospitality, healthcare, education and professional services.

Ms Allen said the trend was already being reflected in increased business lending, as companies expand operations and invest to meet the needs of larger and more diverse regional populations.

Planning for Future Growth

The Regional Movers Index also provides governments, councils and investors with valuable early warning of where infrastructure and housing demand is likely to increase.

With more Australians continuing to choose life beyond the major capitals, the report suggests regional Australia will play an increasingly important role in the nation's economic growth, employment and population planning over the coming decade.

As regional centres continue to expand, investment in roads, healthcare, schools, housing and essential services will be critical to ensuring communities can accommodate new residents while maintaining the lifestyle that continues to attract Australians away from the nation's largest cities.

PBS Subsidy Expands Access to Needle-Free Anaphylaxis Treatment Across Australia

By Jeff Gibbs

Australians living with the risk of life-threatening allergic reactions will now have access to a new subsidised emergency treatment, with the Australian Government listing neffy® adrenaline (epinephrine) nasal spray on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) from July 1, 2026.

The PBS listing means eligible adults and children aged four years and older who weigh at least 15 kilograms can now access the needle-free adrenaline nasal spray at the subsidised PBS price for the emergency treatment of anaphylaxis.

The announcement has been welcomed by CSL Seqirus, which says the listing expands treatment options for Australians managing severe allergies while making the medication more affordable.

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can develop rapidly after exposure to allergens including foods, medications, insect bites or insect stings. Without immediate treatment, the condition can become lifethreatening.

Adrenaline remains the first-line emergency treatment for anaphylaxis

because it works quickly to reduce swelling in the throat, improve breathing by opening the airways and help maintain blood pressure and heart function. The PBS listing comes as Australia continues to experience increasing rates of anaphylaxis. Health data shows Australia has one of the highest recorded rates of anaphylaxis-related hospital admissions among developed nations. Between 2015 and 2020, public hospitals recorded a 51 per cent increase in emergency department presentations

and a 35 per cent rise in hospital admissions linked to anaphylaxis.

Leading NSW allergist

Professor Connie Katelaris said the subsidy represented an important step forward for people living with severe allergies. She said neffy had previously only been available through private prescription, but the PBS listing would allow more Australians to choose the nasal spray if it suited their individual treatment needs.

Professor Katelaris said there was no single

approach that worked for every patient, making access to a broader range of treatment options an important development for doctors and patients alike.

Health Strategy and Advocacy Manager for Allergy & Anaphylaxis

Australia, Maria Said, said living with the constant threat of anaphylaxis affected nearly every aspect of daily life.

She said people with severe allergies often had to carefully plan routine activities such as dining out, attending social

gatherings or travelling, while parents and carers regularly faced additional planning for school excursions, birthday parties and play dates.

Ms Said said having access to a needle-free adrenaline option would provide greater flexibility for patients and families when discussing treatment preferences with their healthcare professionals.

Healthcare professionals are also receiving updated clinical guidance following the introduction of the new treatment.

Associate Professor Kristina Rueter, Chair of the Anaphylaxis Committee of the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA), said the organisation had updated its clinical guidelines, education programs and training resources to include neffy.

She said the revised materials were developed with allergy specialists and healthcare professionals to ensure clinicians had access to practical, evidence-based information covering the latest treatment options available for anaphylaxis.

CSL Seqirus Senior Medical Director of Pharmaceuticals Claire Morgan described the PBS listing as a significant milestone in improving patient access to essential medicines.

She said subsidised access would give eligible Australians another treatment choice while recognising the collaborative efforts of healthcare professionals, advocacy organisations and professional medical bodies that support the allergy community.

The PBS listing took effect on July 1, making neffy available as a subsidised treatment option for eligible Australians at risk of anaphylaxis.

Human Oversight Push Grows as Aged Care Algorithm Faces Fresh Scrutiny

By Jeff Gibbs

Australia’s aged care assessment system is facing renewed pressure after the Senate backed a move to restore greater human oversight to decisions about home support funding for older people.

At the centre of the debate is the Integrated Assessment Tool, a computer-based system used to help determine how much government-funded aged care support a person can receive at home and how urgent their needs are. The tool was introduced as part of broader aged care reforms, but it has drawn criticism from aged care advocates, clinicians, families and older Australians who argue it can produce decisions that do not properly reflect a person’s real-life circumstances.

inaccurate result.

care.

Concerns have focused on cases where trained assessors believed an older person needed a higher level of support, but were limited in their ability to override the outcome generated through the assessment system.

The Senate has now passed legislation aimed at restoring stronger clinical judgement to the process. If approved by the House of Representatives, the change would allow qualified assessors to step in when they believe the system has produced an unsuitable or

Supporters of the reform argue that aged care assessments should never rely too heavily on automated decisionmaking, particularly when the outcome can determine whether an older person receives enough help to remain safely at home. The issue has become especially important as more Australians seek home-based care instead of entering residential aged care. For many older people, access to services such as personal care, domestic assistance, transport, meal support and nursing can make the difference between living independently and being forced into a higher level of

The Federal Government has acknowledged concerns about the assessment process and has indicated it will introduce a human override mechanism in limited circumstances. However, critics argue that any override power should be broader and more clearly available to assessors whenever professional judgement indicates the result does not match a person’s needs.

Advocacy groups have also raised concerns about delays in review processes, warning that older people can be left waiting for months while decisions are reconsidered. During that time, families may be forced to fill gaps

in care or pay privately for support they believe should have been funded.

The controversy has added to broader concerns about the use of algorithms in government decisionmaking. While technology can help make systems more consistent and efficient, critics say it must not replace human judgement in sensitive areas such as health, disability and aged care.

For older Australians and their families, the key concern is simple: assessments must accurately reflect the person sitting in front of the assessor, not just the result produced by a computer model.

The proposed changes would not remove the assessment tool altogether, but would place greater emphasis on human review, professional expertise and accountability.

The legislation still needs to pass the House of Representatives before becoming law. If successful, it could mark a significant shift in how aged care support is assessed, ensuring technology assists the process rather than controls it.

For families across Australia, the debate highlights the importance of a fair, transparent and compassionate aged care system that recognises each person’s individual needs.

Charolais Steers Top $2,350 as Strong Buyer Demand Lifts Beaudesert Store Sale

Feeder steers, heifers and cows all sell to significantly dearer market

Strong competition from feeder and restocker buyers pushed prices sharply higher across most categories at the latest Beaudesert Store Sale, with quality Charolais steers topping the market at $2,350.

Agents Bartholomew and Co reported a much dearer market on Saturday, with buyers actively competing for quality young cattle, while heifers and cows also exceeded vendor expectations.

Leading the sale was Sugarloaf Grazing Co, Milford, whose two-year-old Charolais-

cross steers sold for the saletopping $2,350.

Close behind were Daniel Lack, Illinbah, who received $2,140 for two-year-old Charbray steers, while James and Sue Kemp, Christmas Creek, sold 18-month-old Droughtmaster steers for $2,010.

The Drynan Family, Innisplain, achieved $1,900 for 18-month-old Charolais-cross steers, while GC Value Finance, Witheren, sold Charolais-cross weaner steers for $1,500.

Other strong steer prices included Liz Evans and John Rowling, Hatton Vale, whose 14-month-old Droughtmaster

steers sold for $1,430, Julian and Jan Ritter, Christmas Creek, receiving $1,400 for 12-monthold Angus-cross steers, and Jon Stiller and Co, whose Limousincross weaner steers made $1,360.

Sugarloaf Grazing Co also sold Angus-cross weaner steers for $1,220, while John Finch, Allenview, received $1,100 for Limousin-cross weaner steers.

Early Storms Pastoral, Illinbah, sold Brangus-cross weaner steers for $1,030, and M and M Platell Farming Co, Josephville, received $960 for lightweight weaner steers.

Competition for females was equally impressive.

Logan River Lucerne, Beaudesert, topped the heifer section with two-year-old Droughtmaster heifers selling for $1,900. Yawarra Pty Ltd, Nindooinbah, sold 14-monthold Santa heifers for $1,400, while Colin Anderson, Boonah, achieved $1,230 for 12-monthold Droughtmaster heifers. Jon Stiller and Co sold Limousin-cross weaner heifers for $1,030, while James and Sue Kemp received $910 for Speckle Park-cross heifers.

Sugarloaf Grazing Co sold Angus-cross weaner heifers for $890, M and M Platell Farming Co received $880 for Charolaiscross weaner heifers, and

Tammy Lambkin, Maudsland, sold Droughtmaster-cross weaner heifers for $850.

The cow market also attracted strong buyer interest.

Tammye Conroy, Bryden, topped the cow section with Charolais-cross cows selling for $2,310, narrowly ahead of Tracy and Yvonne Clark, Biddaddaba, whose Limousin-cross cows reached $2,300. Jon Stiller and Co sold Limousin cows for $2,290, while CR Bird Pty Ltd, Guanaba, received $1,800 for Charolais cows. Logan River Lucerne sold medium-frame cows for $1,530.

The top bull of the sale was a Charolais bull sold by Gold

Coast Pastoral Co, Currumbin, for $3,500.

Bartholomew and Co said the stronger market reflected continuing confidence from both feeder and restocker buyers, particularly for quality young cattle.

The next Beaudesert Store Sale will be held on Saturday, 18 July, commencing at 9.30am.

By The Northern Rivers Rural News Desk

NRLX Store Sale Tops $4.25 Million as Steers Reach 658c/kg July 3

Strong demand for quality young cattle drives another impressive market at Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange

Buyer confidence remained strong at the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange (NRLX) on Friday, with more than 3,400 store cattle changing hands as feeder and restocker competition pushed quality young cattle to impressive prices.

The latest NRLX Store Sale yarded 3,425 head across 712 lots, generating more than $4.25 million in livestock sales, while an additional 130 head sold on a per-head basis realised a further $290,125.

Steers again dominated the market, with 1,909 head averaging a strong 553.1 cents per kilogram and topping at 658.2c/kg. Individual steer values ranged from $405 to $2,591.86, averaging $1,354.47 per head and

returning a combined value of almost $2.59 million.

Heifers also attracted solid competition, with 1,508 head selling between 258.2c/kg and 560.2c/kg, averaging 482.7c/ kg. Values ranged from $210 to $1,709.17 per head, averaging $1,102.95, with total sales exceeding $1.66 million.

A small offering of eight vealer bulls sold to an average of 508.2c/kg, topping at 514.2c/

kg and averaging $994.09 per head. The category returned almost $8,000 across the two lots offered.

In the per-head categories, bulls attracted the highest prices of the day, with two head averaging $4,750 and reaching a top price of $8,000.

The cows and calves section remained particularly strong, with 76 units averaging $2,408.09 and topping at $3,700, while

33 heifers sold to an average of $2,084.85, reaching $2,500. Cows averaged $1,516.32, with prices ranging from $200 to $2,750.

Across all categories sold on a per-head basis, the market averaged $2,231.73.

The continued strength in the NRLX market reflects ongoing demand for quality young cattle as producers seek to rebuild and improve herds following favourable seasonal conditions

across much of the region. With competition remaining firm among feeders and restockers, quality lines of steers and heifers continue to command premium prices, providing encouraging returns for vendors as confidence in the beef sector remains high.

By The Northern Rivers

Northern Rivers Cattle Market Surges as Heavy Export Stock Drives Strong Sale

The Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange recorded another outstanding cattle market on Wednesday, 1 July, with strong processor demand and consistent competition from restockers and feeder buyers helping deliver excellent returns across most categories.

A total of 1,836 head were yarded across 699 lots, generating more than $2.59 million in livestock sales. The overall market averaged 404.2 cents per kilogram, with prices reaching a top of 604.2c/kg, reflecting continued confidence from buyers despite seasonal challenges.

Steers once again led the market, proving to be the standout category. A total of 551 steers sold across 223 lots, averaging an impressive 517.1c/kg and peaking at 604.2c/kg. Individual returns ranged from $322.20 to $2,646, producing total sales of almost $690,000 and highlighting the ongoing demand for quality feeder and backgrounding cattle. Heifers also attracted very solid competition. With 509 head offered in 184 lots, they averaged 442.7c/kg and reached a top of 548.2c/kg. Prices ranged from $231 to $2,035.14 per head, returning more than $518,000

to vendors. The strong average demonstrates that well-finished and well-bred females continue to attract significant buyer interest. Heavy bullocks continued to perform exceptionally well. The offering of 56 head averaged 404.3c/kg, topping at 426.2c/kg, with returns ranging from $1,322.88 to $2,965.43. Combined sales exceeded $140,000, reinforcing the strength of the heavy export market.

The largest yarding consisted of 651 cows, representing more than one-third of the total sale. Despite the large numbers, the market remained remarkably resilient,

averaging 344.8c/kg and topping at 394.2c/kg. Vendors received between $390 and $2,671.50 per head, with cows alone generating over $1.08 million in sales, underlining sustained processor demand for manufacturing and export beef. Bulls also produced an encouraging result, with 53 head averaging 383.8c/kg and reaching 418.2c/kg. Individual returns climbed as high as $4,412.01, the highest dollar return of the sale, highlighting the value of heavyweight breeding and slaughter bulls. Total bull sales exceeded $148,000.

Younger cattle remained well sought after. Bobby calves averaged 250c/kg, while vealer bulls averaged 394.3c/ kg, reaching a top of 544.2c/kg and returning up to $1,139.50 per head. Limited numbers of vealers sold to a top of 256.2c/ kg, reflecting the relatively small offering.

The prime cattle market continues to demonstrate the resilience of the Northern Rivers livestock industry. Strong export demand, active competition from feeders and restockers, and tightening supplies of quality finished cattle continue

to underpin prices. With many producers now benefiting from improved seasonal conditions, buyer confidence remains high, particularly for heavier cattle capable of meeting processor specifications. The sale generated a total turnover of $2,591,544.01, confirming another highly successful market for both vendors and buyers at the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange.

By The Northern Rivers Rural News Desk

LIVESTOCK MARKETS WARWICK & DISTRICT W/E 3 JULY 2026

Warwick livestock markets produced another outstanding result this week, with sheep and lamb prices surging as strong competition from processors and exporters pushed values significantly higher. Although yarding numbers eased, buyer demand remained extremely strong across both cattle and sheep, ensuring another successful week's trading.

The cattle sale attracted 739 head, while the weekly sheep and lamb sale yarded 1,044 head. Pig numbers eased on the previous sale, while poultry numbers remained consistent.

Sheep and Lamb Market Agents and vendors presented a quality offering of 1,044 sheep and lambs, comprising approximately 70 per cent mutton and 30 per cent lambs. Stock was drawn from throughout the New England, Western Downs and surrounding local districts. Despite one regular buyer being absent from the buying panel, competition remained exceptionally strong, resulting in substantial increases across most

classes of sheep.

Heavy lambs reached a market top of $377, with the overall lamb average climbing $52 to $286.21 per head.

Hoggets sold to $300, averaging $237.34, only $2 lower than the previous week.

Ram lambs experienced one of the strongest rises of the sale, topping at $280 while averaging $269.77, an impressive increase of $100 per head.

Ewes also sold to a much stronger market, reaching $294 and averaging $244.10, an increase of $87 per head, while wethers topped and averaged $308, also lifting $87 per head.

Across all sheep and lamb categories, the sale averaged $272.35 per head, representing an overall improvement of $54 per head on last week's market.

Leading Sheep and Lamb Sales

M & L Stevenson sold outstanding grain-fed Australian White lambs weighing 64.3kg to exporters for the sale's top price of $377, while a second draft weighing 62.3kg returned $368.

M & A Davey marketed another excellent run of grain-fed Australian White lambs, with 68.4kg lambs selling to local processors for $373, 64.4kg lambs making $370 to exporters and 61.4kg lambs returning $369 to local processors.

R & K Frost sold DorperCharolais cross lambs weighing 55kg for $336, 51.6kg lambs for $329 and 48.8kg lambs for $315 to local processors. Their 45kg ram lambs made $204 to restockers, while Dorper wethers sold for $308 to exporters. Dorper ewes returned $250 and $220 to exporters, with lighter ewes making $120 to restockers.

WR & WA Schelbach sold 44.6kg Dorper lambs to local processors for $310.

J & R Henry sold 49.3kg Dorper lambs to Toowoomba and local processors for $330.

Maxafari Trust sold crossbred lambs weighing 47kg for $299 to local processors, 44.2kg lambs for $287 to exporters and lighter 39.1kg lambs for $200 and $170.

R Barnes sold 45kg Dorper lambs for $300, 44kg lambs for

$275, while their ewes made $180 to exporters.

D Laffy sold Dorper ewes for $261 to exporters, with additional lines making $176 and $158 to restockers.

Greenup Maryland Partnership sold 55kg Dorset lambs to exporters for $339, while 45kg lambs made $285.

Drysdale F/T sold Dohne hoggets weighing 55.4kg and 47.7kg to exporters for $249 and $230 respectively.

K Holloway sold lighter 26kg Dorper lambs to restockers for $168 and $138.

Z Toyne sold 28.8kg Dorper lambs to restockers for $170.

G Jones sold 50kg Dorper lambs to exporters for $317, while 39.4kg and 35kg lambs sold to local processors for $246 and $200.

Cattle Market

The weekly cattle sale attracted 739 head, with quality cattle meeting another solid market across most categories.

Feeder steers again produced the strongest rates, averaging 507.5 cents per kilogram and

topping at an outstanding 596.2c/ kg, returning between $1,732.57 and $2,294.08.

Feeder heifers averaged 466.3c/ kg, reaching 514.2c/kg, with returns ranging from $1,637.97 to $2,187.90.

Yearling heifers averaged 454.3c/kg, topping at 530c/kg, while yearling steers averaged 413.2c/kg, reaching 568.2c/kg.

Vealer steers sold to 618.2c/ kg, averaging 457.7c/kg, while vealer heifers averaged 455.9c/kg, topping at 520c/kg.

Heavy steers averaged 409.6c/ kg, reaching 480c/kg, with returns from $2,115.22 to $3,484.80.

Heifers averaged 389.3c/kg, topping at 432.2c/kg, returning between $1,805.09 and $2,706.00. Bulls averaged 391.6c/kg, topping at 488.2c/kg, returning from $1,887.95 to $4,662.31.

Cows averaged 338.3c/kg, reaching 402.2c/kg, with prices ranging between $1,764.66 and $2,800.00.

Across all cattle sold, the average return was $1,448.51 per head.

Poultry and Pig Market

The poultry sale again attracted good competition. Ducks topped the market at $75, followed by Bantams reaching $66. Chickens sold to $47.50, drakes reached $45, roosters made $40, hens sold to $37.50, while guinea fowl reached $27.50. Pig numbers were lower than the previous week. Sows sold from $170 to $230, boars made $130 to $140, pork pigs returned $120 to $260, while store pigs sold from $80 to $210.

Overall, Warwick again produced a very strong market, particularly in the sheep and lamb section where buyer demand continued to outstrip supply. Cattle prices also remained firm across most categories, reflecting ongoing confidence from processors, exporters and restockers as quality livestock continues to attract excellent competition.

By The Northern Rivers Rural News Desk

ABARES Launches National Farm Survey to Measure Performance Across Australian Agriculture

By Ian Rogers

The Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) is preparing to begin its annual nationwide farm survey, with thousands of producers set to contribute valuable information that helps shape agricultural policy and industry planning.

Over the coming months, a team of 35 ABARES field officers will travel across Australia to conduct face-to-face interviews with approximately 1,900 farmers. The survey program will continue through to December and forms one of the country's longest-running sources of agricultural data. The annual survey gathers detailed information on farm businesses, including property structure, land use, production levels, operating costs and financial performance. The information collected provides governments, industry organisations

and policymakers with an accurate picture of the health and productivity of Australia's agricultural sector.

ABARES Assistant Secretary Andrea Willis said the survey plays a vital role in supporting evidence-based decisionmaking across the agricultural industry. She said the information collected provides an important foundation for developing policies and responding to emerging challenges affecting Australian farmers, including drought, changing seasonal conditions and international trade disruptions.

Ms Willis encouraged all producers selected to participate to take part in the survey, noting that the quality and accuracy of the data relies heavily on farmer participation. She said those selected have the opportunity to represent both their local region and their agricultural sector, helping ensure the information

reflects the diversity of Australian farming.

The survey results contribute to national agricultural statistics that are widely used by governments, industry groups, researchers and financial institutions to assess farm performance, identify trends and guide future investment and policy decisions.

ABARES has been collecting agricultural industry information for more than 70 years, making the surveys one of Australia's most comprehensive longterm datasets on farming performance.

The Australian Agricultural and Grazing Industries Survey, which focuses on broadacre farming businesses, has been conducted annually since 1977 and currently includes a sample of around 1,600 farms. It provides Australia's longest continuous time series of broadacre farm data.

The Australian Dairy Industry Survey commenced in 1978 and

surveys approximately 300 dairy farms each year, offering valuable insights into the performance and changing conditions within Australia's dairy sector. Together, the surveys provide a comprehensive overview of agricultural production, profitability and business performance across a wide range of farming enterprises.

Farmers selected to participate in this year's survey will be contacted directly by ABARES collectors. Those seeking additional information can contact the ABARES Survey Collection team by phone on 1800 026 308 or via email at surveysabares@aff.gov.au.

ABARES says the continued success of the survey program depends on the willingness of farmers to participate, ensuring Australia maintains accurate, reliable and independent information to support the future of its agricultural industries.

Australia Tightens Seafood Import Rules to Combat Illegal Fishing

By Ian Rogers

Australia has strengthened its fight against illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing by introducing new seafood import codes designed to improve the identification and monitoring of imported seafood products.

The Australian Government has announced the first stage of updated import classifications, with new codes separating squid and shark imports while also providing clearer identification of farmed and wild-caught seafood. The changes are intended

to improve traceability throughout the supply chain and help authorities better detect products that may be linked to illegal fishing practices.

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) worked with the Australian Bureau of Statistics to develop the new coding system, marking the first phase of a broader review of seafood import classifications. Further code updates are scheduled for introduction in 2027.

DAFF Acting Deputy Secretary Nick Blong said illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing

remained a significant global issue with farreaching environmental, economic and social consequences.

He said IUU fishing undermines legitimate commercial fishing operations while placing additional pressure on marine ecosystems and fish stocks.

The updated import codes are expected to improve the accuracy of Australia's seafood import data by reducing the reliance on broad "other" categories that have traditionally grouped a range of products together. More detailed classifications

will enable authorities to better monitor imports considered to be at higher risk of originating from illegal fishing activities. Improved product identification is also expected to provide greater transparency across seafood supply chains, supporting Australia's efforts to ensure imported seafood meets international standards and helping protect consumers and the domestic seafood industry.

From 1 July 2026, seafood importers and customs brokers will be required to use the new import codes when lodging import documentation.

The Department of Home Affairs will issue an advisory notice outlining the updated reporting requirements.

The reforms come as Australia's seafood import market continues to grow.

During the 2024-25 financial year, Australia

imported approximately 227,000 tonnes of edible seafood, with imports valued at around $2.8 billion.

The Australian Government says the new coding system represents an important step towards strengthening biosecurity, improving import transparency and supporting international efforts to combat illegal fishing across the region.

Mixed Start to NSW Water Year as Opening Allocations Reflect Regional Divide

Northern Valleys Begin Strong While Southern Irrigators Face Another Challenging Season

By Ian Rogers

Water users across New South Wales are entering the 2026–27 water year under vastly different conditions, with healthy allocations for many regions contrasted by continued hardship in several of the state's major inland irrigation districts.

The NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) has released its opening water allocations for the new water year, revealing that while most high-priority water users have secured full allocations, ongoing dry conditions have left some general security licence holders with little or no water to begin the season. The allocations highlight the contrasting seasonal conditions experienced across New South Wales over the past 12 months, with some coastal and western areas receiving above-average rainfall while large parts of the southern, central and northern inland regions

have endured belowaverage rainfall and reduced river inflows.

Essential Water Supplies Fully Protected

Despite the uneven seasonal outlook, the NSW Government has confirmed that all high-priority water users have received full opening allocations. This includes water for town supplies, environmental flows, domestic use and stock watering, ensuring essential community needs and environmental requirements remain protected across the state. Many general security licence holders will also begin the new water year with substantial water availability through a combination of opening allocations and carry-over balances from the previous season. Authorities say these carry-over volumes remain fully deliverable, providing greater certainty for many agricultural producers planning the coming irrigation season.

Northern Valleys Among Strongest Performers Water availability is

particularly encouraging across much of northern New South Wales.

Most coastal river systems have opened with near-full allocations, while several northern inland valleys are also in a relatively healthy position.

The Namoi and Gwydir valleys are among the strongest-performing regulated systems, with moderate to high allocations reflecting more favourable water storage and inflow conditions.

Groundwater users have also largely received full opening allocations, while supplementary licences, unregulated river access licences and floodplain harvesting licences have similarly opened at full allocations, subject to any operational restrictions under Section 324 Orders where applicable.

Dry Conditions Continue Across Key Irrigation Regions

Not every region has shared in the improved outlook.

Persistent dry conditions have significantly reduced water availability across

several of the state's largest irrigation districts.

General security licence holders in the NSW Border Rivers, NSW Murray and Murrumbidgee valleys have received zero opening allocation for the start of the 2026–27 water year.

Meanwhile, irrigators in the Lower Darling have received only limited opening allocations as authorities continue carefully managing remaining water resources amid declining inflows and reduced storage levels.

For many irrigators, particularly broadacre cropping enterprises and mixed farming operations, opening allocations play a critical role in planning crop rotations, irrigation scheduling and financial management throughout the year.

Dam Storage Levels

Continue to Decline

While water storage across the state's rural dam network remains at moderate levels overall, reserves continue to trend downward.

Combined rural water storages currently sit at

approximately 49 per cent of total capacity, holding around 8,300 gigalitres of water.

Although these levels continue to provide significant security for essential water needs, authorities say future allocations will remain heavily dependent on rainfall and inflows throughout winter and spring.

Authorities Monitoring Seasonal Outlook

Director of Water

Planning Implementation with the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, Allan Raine, said the opening allocations reflected the highly variable climatic conditions experienced across New South Wales.

He said while parts of the state had received well above-average rainfall during the past year, many inland regions continued to experience increasingly dry conditions.

Mr Raine said it was encouraging that reliable allocations were available for many water users while

critical water supplies for towns, the environment, domestic users and livestock had been secured for the year ahead.

He added that the department would continue closely monitoring weather patterns, river inflows and climate forecasts throughout the 2026–27 water year to ensure water resources continue to be managed sustainably and responsibly as seasonal conditions evolve.

Water allocation statements for major regulated river systems are reviewed and updated at least monthly, allowing licence holders to monitor changing conditions and plan water use accordingly.

For many farming communities across regional New South Wales, the coming months will determine whether recent dry conditions ease or whether further pressure will be placed on already stretched water supplies as the new irrigation season unfolds.

Gardening Tips & Ideas

Wake Up Your Garden: How Northern Rivers Gardeners Can Prepare for a Spectacular Spring

Late winter is the perfect time to prune, plant and prepare for months of colour, fresh produce and healthy growth

By Jeff Gibbs

As the crisp mornings of late winter begin giving way to warmer days, gardeners across the Northern Rivers are entering one of the most important periods of the gardening calendar. While spring often steals the spotlight, it is actually the final weeks of winter that determine whether gardens explode with colour, healthy vegetables and abundant harvests—or struggle to catch up.

From Tweed Heads to Grafton, inland communities like Kyogle and Casino through to the coastal gardens of Ballina, Byron Bay and Evans Head, now is the ideal opportunity to prepare garden beds, improve soil and get a head start before spring growth begins in earnest.

The Northern Rivers enjoys one of Australia's most favourable gardening climates, but the region's combination of heavy summer rain, humidity and occasional late cold snaps means timing is everything. Start with the Soil

Every successful garden begins below the surface. Winter rains often compact soil, while months of growing vegetables and flowering plants can leave valuable nutrients depleted. Before planting anything new, spend time improving your soil.

Work generous amounts of quality compost through garden beds along with aged manure, worm castings or organic soil conditioners. Sandy coastal soils particularly benefit from additional organic matter to improve moisture retention, while heavier inland clay soils become easier to work once compost is incorporated.

Adding a balanced organic fertiliser now provides nutrients that will become

available just as plants begin their rapid spring growth.

Mulch should also be replenished around shrubs, fruit trees and vegetable beds. A layer 50 to 75 millimetres thick helps regulate soil temperature, suppress weeds and conserve valuable moisture heading into the warmer months.

Time for a Garden Clean-Up

Late winter is also the perfect opportunity to tidy the garden before new growth begins.

Remove dead annuals, diseased foliage and old vegetable crops that may harbour pests and fungal diseases over winter. Fallen fruit should also be cleared away to reduce insect populations before spring arrives.

Check irrigation systems for leaks, blocked drippers and damaged sprinklers while demand for watering remains relatively low.

Garden tools deserve attention too. Sharpen secateurs, clean pruning saws and disinfect blades before moving between plants to reduce the spread of disease.

Prune Before Growth Explodes

Many deciduous fruit trees benefit from winter pruning while they remain dormant.

Peaches, nectarines, apples and pears can all be shaped now to encourage stronger growth, improve airflow and increase fruit production later in the season.

Roses should also receive their annual prune if this has not already been completed. Remove dead or crossing stems and open the centre of each bush to improve air circulation.

Summer-flowering shrubs can also be lightly shaped before active growth resumes.

However, avoid heavily

pruning frost-sensitive tropical plants until the risk of cold weather has passed completely.

Vegetables to Plant Now

For keen home gardeners, late winter is one of the busiest planting periods of the year.

Seedlings established now will enjoy mild spring temperatures and often produce heavier crops before the intense heat of summer arrives.

Excellent vegetables to plant include:

• Tomatoes

• Capsicum

• Chillies

• Eggplant

• Sweet corn

• Beans

• Cucumbers

• Zucchini

• Pumpkin

• Silverbeet

• Lettuce

• Spinach

• Beetroot

• Carrots

• Spring onions

• Leeks

• Radishes

• Asian greens

Gardeners should wait until soil temperatures begin warming before planting the more heat-loving crops such as tomatoes and eggplant in cooler inland districts, while coastal areas can usually begin slightly earlier.

Plant Herbs for Months of Fresh Flavour

Kitchen gardens also benefit from late winter planting. Parsley, coriander, basil, thyme, oregano, rosemary, sage, dill, mint and chives all establish well during this period.

Many herbs perform exceptionally well in pots positioned close to the kitchen where they receive morning sunshine and protection from harsh afternoon heat.

Flowers That Will Shine Through Spring Garden centres throughout

Northern Rivers are now filling with colourful seedlings ready for spring planting.

Popular flowering annuals include:

• Pansies

• Violas

• Petunias

• Marigolds

• Alyssum

• Snapdragons

• Calendulas

• Dianthus

• Cosmos

• Zinnias

For spectacular summer displays, now is also an excellent time to plant bulbs including lilies, gladioli and dahlias in well-prepared soil.

Native gardens can also be enhanced with grevilleas, callistemons, westringias and banksias, providing valuable nectar for birds and pollinating insects throughout the warmer months.

Feed Fruit Trees Before Blossom

Fruit trees are beginning to awaken after winter dormancy.

Citrus trees respond well to feeding with a specialised citrus fertiliser, while deciduous fruit trees benefit from compost and balanced fertilisers applied around

the drip line.

Inspect trees for scale insects, aphids and signs of fungal disease before new growth begins.

Applying horticultural oils where appropriate can reduce pest populations before spring.

Prepare Lawns for Spring Growth

Lawns may appear dormant after winter but are about to begin growing rapidly.

Remove accumulated leaves, rake away thatch and aerate compacted areas to improve oxygen movement into the root zone.

Apply a slow-release lawn fertiliser once temperatures begin rising and repair bare patches before weeds establish themselves.

Regular mowing will soon become part of the weekly routine once spring growth accelerates.

Attract Beneficial Wildlife

One of the easiest ways to create a healthier garden is to invite nature to do much of the work.

Flowering natives attract bees, butterflies and other important pollinators, while small birds assist in controlling caterpillars, aphids and other pests.

Installing bird baths, insect hotels and diverse flowering plants helps

build a balanced ecosystem that reduces the need for chemical sprays.

Companion planting vegetables alongside flowers such as marigolds and alyssum can also encourage beneficial insects while naturally discouraging pests.

A Little Effort Now Brings Months of Rewards

Experienced gardeners often say that spring gardens are built in winter.

Spending just a few weekends preparing soil, pruning, planting and maintaining the garden now will reward Northern Rivers gardeners with healthier vegetables, colourful flowers, productive fruit trees and lush landscapes throughout the months ahead.

Whether tending a sprawling rural property, a suburban backyard in Lismore, a coastal courtyard in Ballina or a small balcony in Byron Bay, the end of winter offers the perfect opportunity to get your hands dirty and prepare for one of the most rewarding gardening seasons of the year.

With warmer days just around the corner, now is the time to sow the seeds of a spectacular spring.

the third Thursday of the month at the Alstonville Plateau Bowls and Sports Club, 10-14 Deegan Drive Alstonville, at 10am. Our next meeting is on Thursday 16th July and our Guest Speaker will be Ballina Shire Mayor Sharon Cadwallader. Visitors are welcome to attend our meetings. For information phone Keith on 66280393.

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 Pearces 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 welcome.

ALSTONVILLE QUOTA CLUB

A local women’s service club that meets on the 1st Tuesday of the month at the Plateau Sports Club. Quota is committed to supporting and improving the physical and mental wellbeing of the disadvantaged in our community through local projects.

EMBROIDERERS GROUP

Meetings are 9.30am1.30pm, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays and 2nd Saturday of each month. Our venue is the Resource Centre at the rear of Crawford House Museum, Alstonville. We welcome embroiderers of all ability levels to meet, share and learn.

THE RETURNED AND SERVICES LEAGUE OF AUSTRALIA NSW Branch

ALSTONVILLE SUBBRANCH

Alstonville RSL sub-Branch will now hold their monthly meetings on the second Wednesday of the month at 11am at the RSL Hall, 13 Bugden Ave (next door to the Alstonville Medical Centre). All ex-Service persons are welcome to attend, and we have a convivial morning tea on completion of the meeting. Alston suppliers and ranch have a ‘Lower Deck Luncheon’ at 1200 each Friday, everyone is welcome, we sit out the back of the Hall, order lunch from local suppliers, and have great conversations with good mates. There is always plenty of support & advice on any issue!

BALLINA

PROBUS CLUB OF BALLINA WATERS INC

The Probus Club of Ballina Waters will hold its next monthly meeting on Wednesday 15 July at the Cherry Street Sports Club commencing at 10.00 a.m. There will be no guest speaker at this meeting as members will adjourn to a local restaurant for lunch to celebrate the French national day. This club is a mixed club and both men and women are invited to join us for a range of interesting social functions. Further information is available from the Secretary Brian on 0432277170.

BALLINA 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.

BALLINA LADIES PROBUS CLUB

The Ballina Ladies Probus Club meets on the first Wednesday of each month at 10:30am at the Ballina RSL Club. We are always pleased to welcome new faces and currently have vacancies for ladies wishing to join us. Visitors are warmly invited to attend our meetings, outings and social events, all centred around fun, fellowship and friendship. 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.

WINDARA

KID'S BINGO on again at WINDARA, Wednesday 15th July, from 10am to 12am. Cost will be $10 and includes lollies, chips and bingo book. Great prizes to be won on the day. Please bring your own marker pen for bingo. There will be plenty of treats available to purchase from the kitchen plus great tea and coffee for grandparents and parents. So bring the kids out and have a great day taking in the surrounding gardens and nursery. Bookings are 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

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 Parkinson’s Support Group will meet at 10am on Thursday, the 23rd of July at the Thyme Evans Head Village Community Hall, 74 Currajong St, Evans Head. We are looking forward to welcoming our special guest this month, local Neurologist, Dr Rory Cameron Smail. There will also be an opportunity for Caregivers to share and meet in a small group. Tea and coffee available for a gold coin donation. All members of the Parkinson’s Community, family and friends are most welcome. Phone Di 0423941119”

EVANS HEAD SEAGULLS CRAFT & QUILTERS GROUP

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

THE ROTARY CLUB OF EVANS HEAD

Markets held on the Last Saturday of the month held at Cribb Reserve opposite Illawong Hotel at 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 SENIOR CITIZENS

Grafton senior citizens recently held a soup day, with 35 in attendance. The day began with a special morning tea with slices provided by some of the committee. Some games of bingo followed, with small grocery prizes for winners. Then there was a fun trivia quiz, with chocolates for highest scorers. A lucky door prize was won by R. Foley. Then soup lunch, with a choice of 4 soups, 2 breads, with an ice cream to finish the day. Sincere thanks to committee & others who provided & served food, & ran games, & all who attended for their support

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 COUNTRY MUSIC'S next day to be held on 12th July at Wiangaree Hall at 11am. Our days are always held on a Sunday with lunch ordered from Wiangaree General Store. Gold Coin donation at the door. Tea, coffee and cold drinks available at the hall. EVERYONE WELCOME.

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.

NIMBIN

GOOLMANGAR COMMUNITY MARKEt is being held on Sunday 12th July 2026 from 8.30am to 2.30pm at the Goolmangar School Of Arts, 863 Nimbin Road, Goolmangar. There will be a variety of stalls with new and pre-loved items for sale. There will be a sausage sizzle and coffee van on the day. For enquiries or to book a stall call 0428867111.

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

Northern Rivers District:

Partly cloudy. High chance of showers near the coast, medium chance elsewhere. Winds southerly 15 to 25 km/h becoming light during the evening.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. High chance of showers along the coastal fringe, medium chance elsewhere. Light winds becoming southerly 15 to 25 km/h during the morning then becoming light during the afternoon.

Northern Tablelands District:

Partly cloudy. Slight chance of a shower in the south. Winds south to southeasterly 15 to 25 km/h.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog. Slight chance of a shower. Patches of morning frost near the

Queensland border. Winds east to southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h becoming light during the afternoon.

New South Wales:

Isolated showers on the coast. Mostly dry and sunny elsewhere. Morning frost patches on the ranges and southern inland. Patchy fog about the southern inland. Daytime temperatures generally near average. South to southwesterly winds along the coast and in the east, tending southeast to easterly elsewhere.

Thursday. Isolated showers on the coast, late showers in the far west. Dry and sunny elsewhere. Morning frost patches on the ranges and southern inland. Patchy fog about the southern inland. Daytime temperatures generally near average. South to easterly winds along the coast, variable about the ranges and easterly across the inland.

Southeasterly 2.5 to 3

increasing to 3 to 4 metres offshore south of Coffs Harbour. Weather: Partly cloudy. 90% chance of showers.

Gold Coast Waters: Winds: Southeasterly 20 to 25 knots. Seas: 2 metres. Swell: Southeasterly 2.5 to 3 metres. Weather: Partly cloudy. 80% chance of showers.

Redmen’s brick wall defence

By Gary Nichols

It was arguably one of the best defensive efforts from a Redmen side in recent memory.

Down to 12-men at one stage during the match, Grafton held off wave after wave of Vikings attack to record a monumental 52-14 victory.

Grafton scored eight tries to two, however it was their ability to shut down Vikings in their red zone which impressed Redmen first grade coach Gary Powell.

“In the first half we were camped in our own half for long periods, and I thought our defence was unbelievable,” Powell said after the match.

“It was probably the best defensive effort I have seen here for a long time.”

The Redmen were reduced to 12 players after receiving one red and two yellow cards which could have resulted in a Vikings comeback, however, Grafton rallied to score two tries during that period.

“When we were down to 12 players, I was a little bit concerned,” Powell said.

“The players got around each other and stayed positive. That was the period of the game that won it for us…to score two tries was incredible.”

Redmen winger Anasa

BALLINA NINE HOLE GOLF RESULTS

Wet weather brought Tuesday's competition to an early end, with persistent rain forcing the cancellation of play. Conditions improved just enough on Thursday for 10 determined ladies to brave the soggy fairways and complete the weekly nine-hole Stableford competition. Despite the challenging conditions underfoot, the field produced some solid scores, with Sandra Bolger taking top honours after finishing with 17 Stableford points. Kate Williams claimed second place with 15 points, while Jan Galletly rounded out the placings in third with 13 points. Jan also enjoyed further success by winning the Division 2 Nearest the Pin, while the Division 1 Nearest the Pin jackpot went unclaimed. With recent rain continuing to impact local courses, players are hoping for an improvement in the weather over the coming weeks as the club looks forward to returning

to drier fairways and more favourable playing conditions.

YATES CLAIMS MONTHLY MEDAL AT CASINO SOCIAL GOLF

Bruce Yates produced the round of the day to claim the Casino Social Golf Club Monthly Medal on Sunday with an excellent net score of 28.

Yates finished two shots clear of Darcey Murphy, who claimed runner-up honours with a net 30 after another consistent performance.

The Putting Trophy was won by M. Gooding, who needed just 16 putts for the round, while H. Rapmond was the lucky winner of the Players Draw.

Nearest the Pin winners were:

• 8th Hole: Darcey Murphy

• 9th & 13th Holes: D. Hampson

• 10th Hole: D. Green

• 11th & 14th Holes: W. Jackson

• 12th Hole: G. Randall

• 15th Hole: Vinny

• 16th & 17th Holes: T.

Tutu scored four tries, but it was rookie front-rower Kaden McCarthy who drew plenty of praise from his teammates and coach.

“As a front-rower, to play 80 minutes and score an awesome try with 10

Jenkins

• 18th Hole: G. Shephard

Attention now turns to next Sunday's competition, proudly sponsored by Madsen Meats Casino, with players contesting a Single Stableford over the bottom 10 holes.

Visitors are always welcome, with players invited to tee off between 6.30am and 7.30am.

CHERRY

STREET CROQUET CLUB RESULTS

Cherry Street Croquet Club members enjoyed another competitive week of Association Croquet, with several close contests highlighting the club's regular competition.

In doubles action, G. Drew and S. Hume edged out P. Waters and P. Hume in a thrilling match, winning 11–10. In singles play, M. Gidding recorded a solid 26–18 victory over L. Turner, while G. Drew continued a strong run of form with an impressive 18–5 win against R. Chapman. Norfolk Island Convicts Cup 2026

minutes from fulltime was amazing,” Powell said.

“He never looked like slowing down. Hopefully that game takes him to another level.”

Grafton’s backline looked more settled and

Northern Rivers players were well represented at the prestigious Norfolk Island Convicts Cup 2026, producing an outstanding set of results.

Leading the way was Rossie Offley, who claimed first place in a superb performance against a quality field. Other Northern Rivers competitors also performed strongly, with J. Hannigan finishing 4th, J. Cox and K. Griffin sharing 6th, W. Gilmore placing 9th, B. Philps 11th, L. Condon 12th, H. Young 13th, J. Dorward 15th, C. Edlund 17th, J. Doust 19th, and L. Whiteman 20th.

Congratulations to Rossie Offley on an outstanding tournament victory.

New Members Welcome Cherry Street Croquet Club is pleased to welcome five new members to the club: Alan Heathcote, Nancy English, Cathy Davey, Roy Taylor and Laura Saad.

The club welcomes players of all experience levels, with new members and spectators always

with centre pairing Wally Tau Vesi and Dylan Lewis proving a lethal combination.

“The backline is starting to gel. It was always going to take time,” Powell said.

“You can’t keep on

encouraged to come along.

Play Days: Tuesday to Sunday, 9.00am – 4.00pm Venue: Corner of Moon Street and Bentinck Street, Ballina.

CORAKI VETERANS BRAVE TOUGH CONDITIONS FOR JULY MONTHLY MEDAL

Wet conditions failed to deter a strong field of 45 golfers who tackled a heavy Coraki Golf Club course for the July Monthly Medal competition.

Despite the challenging underfoot conditions following recent rain, players enjoyed a competitive day, with R. Gacioppa claiming the coveted Monthly Medal honours after an outstanding round.

The Veterans Winner was Bernie McDonald, while B. Micheal finished second and J. Nilsson took third place.

G. Brown won the Free Game, while the Chicken and Ball prizes were awarded to D. Knox, G. Flaherty, R. Earnshaw,

bringing someone new in each week and expect things to click.

“Wally was devastating today with his running and at times looked like he was a level above the opposition.”

B. Cramp, L. Newton, B. Kerrison and G. Tait. Nearest the Pin winners were D. Johnson on the 3rd and 12th holes, and I. Welch on the 6th and 15th holes. The Putting Competition was won by D. Bullock and S. Toms. Attention now turns to one of the club's most anticipated annual events, the Jim Ormond Memorial Day, to be played on Thursday, 9 July 2026. The prestigious event will be contested over 18 holes as a Single Stableford competition played off veterans' handicaps and traditionally attracts strong competition from members eager to add their name to the honour board.

Players are encouraged to arrive early, nominate for the shotgun start, and enjoy a cuppa and a chat before play begins.

Good luck to all competitors, and as always... Till then, good golfing! Max

By The Northern Rivers Sports News Desk

Panthers maul hapless Rebels

By Tim Howard

An injury-riddled South Grafton Rebels side has been humbled 56-12 in front of its home supporters by the Sawtell Panthers.

Smarting from last week’s shock loss to the Grafton Ghosts, the Panthers were in no mood for another upset when they visited McKittrick Park on Saturday, routing the home side with 32 unanswered points in the second half.

The Rebels were competitive in the opening exchanges and were first on the scoreboard after just three minutes.

The Panthers made a mess of the kick-off and the Rebels capitalised when their best player on the day, lock Nick Torrens, charged onto a short pass about 15 metres out to crash over near the posts.

Captain-coach Todd Cameron, swapping the 9 jumper for the 6, converted.

The Rebels suffered an early setback when halfback Damon Kirby went down heavily in a tackle. He was helped from the field and did not return.

The home side nearly scored again soon after when Cameron mishit a kick that ricocheted off a Panthers player into the arms of a Rebel, who quickly found winger Jye Boehme.

He set sail for the corner, but a superb cover tackle from fullback Jayden O’Shannessy bundled him into touch.

Despite leading, the Rebels were allowing the Panthers to make far too many easy metres through the middle of their defence.

The inevitable happened when Panthers half Mikaere Beattie received the ball about 40 metres out, sold a dummy, then hit charging second-rower Declan Rooney, running an inside-out line, with a short pass.

Rooney burst through the narrow gap and sprinted 20 metres to score. Beattie converted to level the scores at 6-all.

O’Shannessy nearly made the Rebels pay for some dreadful defence a few minutes later.

Receiving the ball deep

inside his own half, he charged at the line and was brought down, but the tackler slipped off him. He regained his feet, brushed aside more defenders and headed for the tryline.

The Rebels were only saved when he lost the ball as he dived to score.

A spate of ill-disciplined play allowed the Panthers to march from their own tryline deep into Rebels territory.

Five-eighth Brendan Cochrane threw a dummy and strolled over for the try, with Beattie converting to give the visitors a 12-6 lead.

Almost unbelievably, the Rebels levelled the scores just a few minutes later.

Torrens was involved again, this time producing a short pass for prop Rhys Berry, who crashed over beneath the posts. Cameron converted to make it 12-all.

But that was effectively the end of the contest.

Five minutes later, second-rower Sam Johnstone exposed the Rebels’ fragile edge defence.

Standing first receiver from the ruck, he sold a dummy and stepped back inside a rushing Grant

Brown.

Hooker TJ Kapeen missed the cover tackle and Johnstone crossed untouched.

Veteran Grant Stevens was introduced from the bench but was clearly struggling with a groin injury.

He lasted only a few minutes before hobbling from the field.

The closing minutes of the half summed up the Rebels’ afternoon.

With the final seconds ticking away, O’Shannessy broke down the right edge, stepping inside Brown before the defender’s tackle slipped high.

Play was halted for several minutes while an injured Rebels player received treatment before leaving the field. When play resumed, Brown was sent to the sin bin and the Panthers were awarded a penalty.

With the siren already having sounded, Sawtell executed a set play, with Beattie dummying to decoy runners before putting centre Tully O’Rourke through a gap with a short pass.

The Rebels had no answer

as O’Rourke brushed aside defenders to score near the posts. Beattie converted to give the visitors a 24-12 half-time lead.

The second half was one the Rebels will want to forget.

Reduced to 12 players because of Brown’s sin bin, they conceded two tries before returning to a full complement.

For a brief period they threatened to respond, but it all fell apart as the basics deserted them.

Pummelling the Panthers’ line, Brown produced a clever grubber that forced a line dropout.

But the Rebels spilled the ball from the restart, handing possession straight back to Sawtell.

The Panthers made them pay immediately.

On the next set, Beattie scored a brilliant solo try from just inside the Rebels’ half. He sold a dummy, burst through the gap and swerved around the fullback to score beneath the posts.

Minutes later, the Panthers struck again after the Rebels looked set to score themselves.

Fullback Sam Petch had

joined the backline and attempted a short pass to a support runner, but Cochrane read the play perfectly.

He intercepted the ball and quickly found Kalani Morris, who raced away to score in the corner.

Beattie brought up the Panthers’ half-century a few minutes later when he hauled in a high pass, dummied past startled defenders and stretched out in the tackle to plant the ball over the line.

His conversion made it 50-12.

Morris completed the scoring when the Rebels failed to number up on a simple left-side passing movement.

He rounded his opposite number and crossed a few metres in from the touchline.

Rooney took over the kicking duties and, fittingly, landed the difficult conversion to complete the 56-12 scoreline.

There will be no Group 2 football this weekend because of the competition bye.

Sports

REDMEN’S BRICK WALL DEFENCE