The Northern Rivers Times Newspaper Edition 274

‘Wrecking ball’ bombshell

By Tim Howard

Clarence Valley Council general manager Laura Black has accused a senior Queensland government ofcial of fabricating evidence in a bombshell development in the “wrecking ball” email saga.

Ms Black claimed she has evidence that the ofcial, Simon Chase, who is also the chair of the Clarence Valley Semi-Permanent Van Group, falsifed a section of the damaging internal email that emerged in the past two weeks.

Mr Chase categorically denied the accusations and threatened Ms Black with legal action if she does not retract them.

Ms Black made the claims in emails sent to both The Northern Rivers Times and The Clarence Valley Independent, seeking front page retractions and apologies for the stories containing references to the controversial email being circulated to staf twice, frst on September 17 and again on September 27.

The email, seeking to generate ideas for the council’s participation in the upcoming Jacaranda Festival, included a suggestion for a skit in which council staf on wrecking balls demolished caravans to the tune of the Miley Cyrus song Wrecking Ball.

This was clearly a reference to the ongoing saga following the council’s attempt, earlier in the year, to evict 136 semi-permanent caravan park residents from the four council-managed parks in the region.

Ms Black did not dispute the email had been sent to staf, but said she had evidence the part of the email suggesting it had been sent multiple times had been fabricated and she blamed Mr Chase for it.

This is the text of the email from Ms Black to the editor of The Northern Rivers Times, Jef Gibbs.

“I am seeking a front page retraction and apology in relation to the above mentioned article for the following reasons:

“The page 2 article, which is advertised on the front page refers to an ‘email’ that was leaked and also that it was sent a second time “again on Saturday 27”. Both of which support the fundamental angle of the article written by Tim Howard that seeks to call into question confdence in myself as general manager and Clarence Valley Council.

“Your journalist has relied on information that has been falsifed by Mr Simon Chase, the member of the public quoted in the article. Should you require evidence of that, you can contact me directly.

“I anticipate receiving a copy of the draft retraction and apology by COB of Tuesday 14 September.”

Mr Gibbs forwarded the email to me and I contacted Mr Chase for a comment on the allegation, which he categorically denied.

Mr Chase has since published, on social media, the text of an email to Ms Black in which he said her claim defamed him.

It began:

“I write concerning false and defamatory allegations you have circulated regarding my conduct in relation to the distribution of an internal council email. Specifcally, you have asserted that I have falsifed and manipulated the email to make it appear as though

This image of council staf mounted on wrecking balls smashing into caravans was part of the email sent to all council staf on September 17. The accompanying text suggesting the idea was “too soon” or “too insensitive” indicates staf were aware the idea was inappropriate, but went ahead with it anyway.

it had been sent on more than one occasion.

“This allegation is entirely false, incapable of substantiation, and gravely damaging to my personal and professional reputation. Unlike your unfounded claims, I am in possession of verifable evidence confrming that the email in question was leaked from an internal council source and, in fact, distributed on more than one occasion.”

In the email Mr Chase described the allegation as “false, defamatory, and without evidentiary basis,” and noted that the email had already been circulated before reaching him — something he said could easily be proven.

He said the claim had caused him “signifcant stress, reputational damage, and serious harm.

Mr Chase put the general manager “on notice” that if she persisted in circulating or publishing the allegation, he would have no choice but to commence proceedings under the Defamation Act

2005 (NSW), seeking damages, aggravated damages, and costs.

He demanded Ms Black immediately cease making the statements, provide written confrmation within seven days that she had done so, and issue a full and unequivocal retraction and apology to all parties who had received the allegation.

Mr Gibbs, said he received an email from Ms Black on Friday morning demanding the front page retractions and apology.

But he said more emails arrived from her later in the day, which he believed sought to withdraw the demand for retraction.

He said the last email he received contained this message

“Laura Black would like to recall the message, ‘Crowning Glory or crowning insult?’ NRT 2 October 2026 (sic).

“Laura Black “General Manager”

On Friday afternoon Mr Gibbs said it was his belief Ms Black had retracted her demands on the paper and he planned to take no further action on that front.

Also on Friday I, as a self-employed, freelance journalist, sent questions to Ms Black seeking her response to issues raised by these events.

Her response was to forward my email with my list of questions to Mr Gibbs, with a message:

“Afternoon Jef

“Please confrm if this is how Northern River Times is responding to my request.

“Thanks

“Laura Black

“General Manager” On social media Mr Chase

has also published an email exchange between him and Cr Alison Bryant.

Surprisingly, Cr Bryant demanded Mr Chase reveal the information he has proving multiple publication of the “wrecking ball” email to council staf.

“I am sure you would have that evidence and happy to provide it in full Simon and not just be making that up,” Cr Bryant wrote.

It’s surprising because it was Ms Black’s accusation that Mr Chase had fabricated a part of the email that sparked this latest controversy.

Mr Chase chided the councillor on this point.

“Now Alison, when will Ms Black provide evidence to substantiate the serious allegations she has made against me? Surely, as an elected ofcial, you would be interested in seeing whether she has anything at all to prove her claims. But then again maybe not,” he wrote in his social media response.

The fall out from this controversy has spread beyond the council with the organisers of the Jacaranda Festival concerned the dispute is taking the focus of the festival, due to begin later this month.

Festival committee president Amanda Brotherson said the matter had nothing to do with the Jacaranda Festival preparations and her committee was totally focussed on producing an outstanding Jacaranda Festival for 2025.

Ms Black has not replied to the questions she received last week.

In Support of Tim Howard’s “Wrecking Ball”

As Editor and CEO of The Northern Rivers Times , I want to express my full support for respected journalist Tim Howard and his recent piece, “Wrecking Ball.”

Tim’s latest report continues his long-standing dedication to fearless regional journalism — shining a light on the growing concerns surrounding Clarence Valley

Council’s ongoing saga and the deep frustration felt by the Clarence Valley Semi-Permanent Van Group. His work captures the essence of what responsible reporting should do: hold decision-makers accountable and give a fair voice to those afected by their actions.

For too long, residents and long-term van park tenants have faced uncertainty,

confusion, and now outright disrespect, as their legitimate concerns have been dismissed or ignored. Tim’s article doesn’t sensationalise the issue — it simply lays bare the truth that many in the community have been feeling for months.

The Northern Rivers region deserves transparency, accountability, and genuine consultation

from its councils. Tim’s reporting reminds us that these are not optional ideals but essential principles of local governance. His story highlights the human impact of bureaucratic decisions and the pressing need for leadership that listens.

At The Northern Rivers Times, we stand frmly behind Tim Howard’s professionalism, integrity, and commitment to factual, community-focused journalism. His work continues to refect the values that regional media must uphold — fairness, truth, and respect for the people whose stories deserve to be heard.

Jef

Lismore Show in its 140th year

By Samantha Elley

Get ready Northern Rivers! The Elders North Coast National Lismore Show is about to celebrate 140 years.

“I invite everyone to come along this year and catch up with old friends and make new ones,” said North Coast National A&I Society President John Gibson.

“The show is where memories are made and its not long until October.”

John listed the attractions that were coming including Ashton’s Circus, monster trucks, rodeo, the FMX bikes, petting zoo, wood chopping and some great local musical talents including Dave Graney ‘n’ the Coral Snakes.

“Again this year we also have the Chill and Charge zone, which is a quiet zone for people to relax over a cofee and recharge themselves and their phones,” said John.

“The Show has been at the heart of our community since 1885

and once again, I would like to thank our naming rights sponsor, Elders, and all our regular sponsors.

“Without them, the Show could not go on.”

Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg said the show is supporting our primary producers and agricultural industry.

“It’s great to see the North Coast National not only surviving 140 years but thriving,” he said.

“It is the biggest regional show in New South Wales.”

As the Lismore showgrounds prepare for another year of recordbreaking numbers, the sprinklers are actually getting a workout, according to Cr Krieg, for the frst time in four years.

“We are blessed with great weather, we live in the best part of Australia,” he said.

“For the committee that works so hard and just listening to what’s on the program, it sounds like a jam-packed three days.

“Lismore City Council

is more than proud to be major supporters of the show.”

Cr Krieg is looking forward to being involved in the LED steer competition.

Nominations are now open for the 2025 North Coast National Young Woman and Teen

If you're between 13 and 25, this is your chance to step into the spotlight and make a diference. The Young Woman competition is for those aged 18 to 25 and Teen Showgirl for girls aged 13 to 17. This is your chance to be an ambassador

for your community, showcase your passion for agriculture and promote Lismore and the Lismore Show. For more information about how to apply for the Young Woman and Teen Showgirl competitions, go to https:// northcoastnational.com.

au. Entries close Friday, 4 October. One day passes are $25 for adults, $15 for concessions and children between 12-17, 11 and under are free, $45 for a family day pass and membership is $65 which allows you in for all the three days.

Price not right for South Grafton Pool

By Tim Howard

The future of the South Grafton Pool and Boyd Nattrass Complex remains undecided, with Clarence Valley councillors voting unanimously at their September meeting to extend the Expression of Interest (EOI) process after a spirited community response.

The move came after councillors heard a deputation from Grafton U3A and Men’s Shed representative Bruce Carle, who urged council to delay any sale to give local groups a chance to develop a more detailed proposal for the site.

Cr Alison Bryant moved an amendment to the ofcer’s recommendation to extend the EOI period, noting that while several proposals had been received, none included a binding purchase price.

The closure of the South Grafton Pool earlier this year has left the city without the hydro-therapy pool which operated from the site. Some of the EOIs the council received included maintaining the pool.

Feel Good Leisure Club sought to continue operating the site as an aquatic and health facility.

Grafton U3A Men’s Shed proposed relocating its operations to the complex, with plans to roof the pools and convert them into workshop spaces.

Lifestyle Group, through a buyer’s agent, suggested converting the pool area into a hydrotherapy and sports rehabilitation centre catering to local clubs, nursing homes, and hospital patients.

community organisations.

Cr Karen Toms backed Cr Bryant’s amendment, saying the extension would allow community groups such as the Men’s Shed to strengthen their proposals.

“To date, we haven’t received any binding purchase price,” Cr Toms said.

shortfall of afordable rental properties.

As of June 2022, 471 households across the Lower Clarence and Grafton zones were on the social housing waitlist, with 60 considered priority cases.

“By extending the expression of interest date, it gives the Grafton Men’s Shed an opportunity to put forward a more comprehensive proposal — and opens it up for anyone else who may have missed the frst round.”

“It’s a fantastic spot for housing, especially afordable housing, which our community really needs.

“By extending the EOI, we’re giving everyone, including community groups, a fair chance to bring forward ideas.”

“This block of land has so much potential—either for council to remain the owner and do something with it, or to go into partnership with another government organisation or not-forproft,” Cr Bryant said.

Cr Debrah

Novak

seconded the motion, which was carried unanimously.

Council’s EOI process closed in July, with four submissions received — two after the ofcial closing date. The proposals included a mix of community and commercial concepts: Caringa proposed a mixed-use development combining a hydrotherapy facility, afordable housing, and public green space.

Despite this level of interest, no binding purchase prices were submitted.

Council ofcers told councillors that the site’s current zoning as RE1 Public Recreation restricts its market appeal.

The ofcer’s report outlined two main options: rezoning and selling the property, or retaining ownership and pursuing a co-development model with partners such as housing providers or

Cr Bryant also acknowledged that three of the four EOI proposals — from Caringa, Feel Good Leisure Club, and a buyer’s agent — had potential merit and deserved further consideration.

The ofcer’s report linked the potential redevelopment of the South Grafton Pool site to the Clarence Valley Local Housing Strategy, which identifes a growing

Ofcers suggested that a co-development model could help meet this need by combining housing with community facilities such as hydrotherapy or rehabilitation services, while allowing Council to retain ownership of the land.

Under the adopted motion, Council will extend the EOI process to allow further submissions and report back once new proposals are received.

The decision means the South Grafton Pool, which closed earlier this year and which has been the subject of strong community debate, will remain in limbo for now, but with renewed hope that it may yet serve a community purpose once again.

Celebrating Small Business Month with a Focus on Cutting Red Tape

Jef Gibbs

Small businesses are taking centre stage this October as NSW Small Business Month celebrates the vital role local enterprises play in powering communities like the Northern Rivers — while also tackling one of their greatest challenges: red tape.

With 870,000 small businesses making up 97 per cent of all NSW enterprises and employing around 1.7 million people, the sector forms the backbone of the state’s economy. Yet, as Minister for Small Business Janelle Safn acknowledges, excessive regulation continues to stife growth and innovation.

“This month is about more than celebration – it’s about action,” Minister Safn said. “We’ve made strong progress through reforms, but there’s more to do, especially around compliance and high costs.”

To address these issues, the NSW Small Business Commission has launched a red tape review, inviting business owners to share their experiences through an online survey. The feedback will help shape future reforms to simplify compliance and reduce administrative burdens. The survey runs until 31 October at smallbusiness.nsw.gov.au/ consultation-red-tape.

Data breach under investigation in Resilient Homes Program

The NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA) has confrmed a data breach involving personal information from people who applied for the Northern Rivers Resilient Homes Program (RHP).

The breach occurred when a former contractor uploaded data containing personal details to an unsecured artifcial intelligence (AI) tool that was not authorised for departmental use.

While there is currently no evidence the data has been made public, the RA said this cannot be ruled out. Cyber Security NSW has launched a full investigation.

“We understand this news is concerning and we are deeply sorry for the distress it may cause for those who have engaged with the program,” the RA said in a statement.

What happened

Between 12 and 15 March 2025, a Microsoft Excel fle containing more than 12,000 rows of

information was uploaded to ChatGPT by a former contractor.

The fle included up to 3,000 individuals’ personal details, which may include names, addresses, email addresses, phone numbers and other personal or health information.

The RA said once the breach was discovered, it immediately took steps to contain the risk and engaged external forensic analysts to assess the scope of the incident. The NSW Privacy Commissioner has also been notifed.

Response and

investigation

The RA is working closely with Cyber Security NSW and expects to complete forensic analysis within days to confrm which individuals were afected and what data was exposed. Those impacted will be contacted directly over the coming week, with personalised support provided through ID Support NSW. This agency can help individuals safeguard their identity, restore compromised documents, and access additional counselling services if needed.

Councillor Jack Dods Re-Elected as Byron Shire’s Deputy Mayor

Robert Heyward

Byron Shire Councillor

Jack Dods has been reelected as Deputy Mayor , continuing in the role until September 2026

Cr Dods said he was honoured to be chosen again by his fellow councillors and the Byron community. “It’s a real privilege to keep serving this incredible community and to keep working to make Byron Shire a better, fairer place for everyone,” he said.

Refecting on his frst year,

Cr Dods described the role as both “challenging and rewarding,” adding that he is entering his second term with “renewed energy and focus.” His priorities include delivering more afordable and diverse housing, improving planning outcomes, rebuilding infrastructure, expanding active transport options, and advancing key projects such as the rail trail to better connect local towns and villages.

Cr Dods also paid tribute to Mayor Sarah Ndiaye, praising her “inclusive and

encouraging leadership” and the positive culture she has fostered within Council.

Mayor Ndiaye congratulated Cr Dods on his re-election, commending his collaborative approach and strong engagement with other councillors. “I look forward to continuing to work closely with him over the next 12 months,” she said.

The Deputy Mayor is elected by councillors each year, while the Mayor is chosen by residents at the NSW Local Government Elections.

DECLARATION AS FREEWAY – ROADS ACT 1993

Attention is invited to the Order published in Government Gazette No 395 of Friday, 26 September 2025 reference [NSWGG-2025-395-4] declaring as a freeway and controlled access road of parts of the Pacifc Highway at Bagotville, Wardell and Coolgardie as shown on a plan registered at Transport for NSW and numbered 0010 023 AC 4026.

(TfNSW Papers: SF2025/014533)

J Connell

Statutory Land Transactions Manager Transport for NSW

The RA said it would cover reasonable out-ofpocket costs for replacing any compromised identity documents.

Strengthened safeguards

In response, the Authority has tightened its internal systems and procedures , issuing clear directives to prevent the use of unsanctioned AI tools. An independent review is also underway to determine how the breach occurred and to ensure lessons are applied to future data handling.

“We remain fully committed to protecting the privacy of our community and restoring trust in the Resilient Homes Program and the NSW Reconstruction Authority,” the agency stated.

Anyone with concerns can contact the Resilient Homes Program call centre on 1800 844 085 (Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm) or ID Support NSW on 1800 001 040 for free advice and assistance.

More information is available at www.nsw.gov. au/id-support-nsw

This information was provided by the NSW Reconstruction Authority.

Robert Heyward

Ballina Shire Council is calling for Expressions of Interest (EOI) from eligible organisations to operate the Tip Shop, also known as the Salvage Shed , located at the Ballina Resource Recovery Centre.

The Tip Shop plays an important role in Council’s ongoing commitment to sustainable waste management, providing a space where usable items can be recovered, repurposed, and resold— helping to reduce landfll while supporting the community and environment.

Council is seeking a community-focused operator to take over the licence from 1 July 2026, when the current arrangement ends. The new licence will run for fve

years, with the option of a fve-year extension at Council’s discretion. Eligible applicants must be registered as, or able to become, one of the following:

l a registered charity

l a not-for-proft organisation

l a community service association, or l a benevolent proft-forpurpose entity

While there is no licence fee, the successful applicant will be responsible for utilities and any approved alteration costs.

EOI documents are available via Council’s VendorPanel Tender Portal, with submissions due by 2pm, Friday 31 October 2025

For more information or to register, visit ballina. nsw.gov.au/Tenders-andQuotations

Jaca Festival lights up for 2025

By Tim Howard

Next Friday the 2025 Jacaranda Festival will light up, literally, when See Park turns into a sea of colour.

The light up, which has become a festival tradition since its inception in 2021, transforms the park into a nightly glowing wonderland.

As dusk falls, the jacaranda trees in See Park will be spotlit in shades of purple and refected in the pond, creating an enchanting scene for families, visitors and photography enthusiasts alike.

The lighting event will also feature live entertainment, local food trucks, and a Coopers Bar operating Thursday

through Saturday nights during the festival. Entry is free, though donations will be accepted.

Although the illumination in See Park opens early, the ofcial 2025 Grafton Jacaranda Festival will run from October 24 to November 2.

Over its 10 days, the festival will combine the city’s natural splendour with arts, culture, music and public gatherings.

Key events scheduled include:

Jacaranda Thursday on October 30, when main streets close and celebrations spill into the CBD—markets, street music and community breakfast expected.

A Float Parade down Prince Street, drawing

more than 100 foats as part of the festival’s grand fnale.

Musical performances, art exhibitions, family

and children’s events, and themed nights including I Scream Jaca Haunts and RETROFEST.

Festival organisers have

emphasised inclusivity and accessibility.

The See Park site features fat paved paths, places to sit, accessible

toilets, and is designed to be welcoming to visitors with limited mobility.

What to Know & Expect

While the ofcial festival dates are late October to early November, Illuminate in See Park begins in mid-October, ofering a preview of the larger celebration.

Some listings suggest early lighting from 8pm onward.

Attendees at the illumination are encouraged to show up early for prime viewing.

Over the festival period, visitors should look out for purple-themed foods, markets, historic walks, and plenty of photo opportunities.

For the full program of events go to: https:// jacafest.com/program

Maclean District Hospital Secures $1.6 Million for Critical Upgrades

Robert Heyward

Maclean District Hospital will soon receive major infrastructure improvements, following the announcement of $1.6 million in funding from the NSW Government to enhance patient care and staf safety.

Health Minister Ryan Park confrmed the investment, which will fund two essential projects — a $1 million upgrade to the hospital’s outdated nurse call system and a $600,000 replacement of the ageing

lift.

Mr Park said the upgrades were vital to maintaining reliable, high-quality healthcare in the Clarence Valley.

“The staf, patients and local community rely on Maclean District Hospital every day, and these upgrades are essential to ensure it continues to operate safely and efciently,” he said.

“These projects continue the improvement program and demonstrate our ongoing commitment to supporting regional health

services and ensuring hospitals like Maclean can continue to deliver highquality care.”

The hospital’s current nurse call system has become obsolete, with replacement parts no longer

available. The new system will improve communication between patients and nursing staf, ensuring faster response times and better patient outcomes.

The existing lift, which has served the hospital for over three decades, will also be replaced after frequent breakdowns. Fabrication and delivery of the new lift will be followed by a threemonth decommissioning

and installation period, expected to take place in mid-2026.

Labor spokesperson for Clarence, Emily Suvaal MLC, said the upgrades would make a practical diference for both staf and patients.

“Reliable infrastructure, like a functioning lift and modern nurse call system, is critical to the day-to-day delivery of safe, highquality care,” she said.

Northern NSW Local Health District Chief Executive Tracey Maisey added that investments like

these were vital for regional healthcare.

“They ensure our teams have the tools and facilities they need to provide excellent care for the communities we serve,” she said.

The hospital recently completed a $245,000 upgrade to its mortuary facilities, including new walls, ceilings, fooring, refrigeration, and improved access — continuing a series of works aimed at strengthening Maclean’s essential health infrastructure.

Fishers Hooked as Coastal FADs Return for Summer Season

Jef Gibbs

Recreational fshers across New South Wales are gearing up for a bumper season as the Minns Labor Government begins redeploying 34 Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs) along the state’s coastline.

The devices, which attract popular oceanic species such as dolphinfsh (mahimahi), are part of a statewide efort to boost recreational fshing, coastal tourism, and regional economies.

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, said the rollout was already well underway, with

20 FADs now installed between Tweed Heads and northern Sydney. The remaining 14 devices will be deployed from Sydney to Eden in the coming weeks.

“The use of Fish Aggregating Devices is part of the Minns Government’s plan to build fshing opportunities across the state and ensure fshing remains accessible, sustainable, and enjoyable for everyone,”

Ms Moriarty said. “FADs not only attract fsh but also boost coastal tourism and support local businesses – a win-win for fshers and regional communities alike.”

Each FAD consists of

a GPS-tracked foating buoy anchored to the ocean foor, creating structure in open waters that attracts fsh and provides reliable hotspots for recreational anglers. The devices are deployed in spring and retrieved in early winter for cleaning and maintenance, including checks on GPS systems and replacement of anchors and ropes.

Ms Moriarty encouraged fshers to stay informed through the FishSmart app, which provides updates on FAD locations, deployment schedules, and responsible fshing guidelines.

“Before heading ofshore, fshers should

always check weather conditions, carry the correct safety gear, and ensure their Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) is working,” she added.

The initiative builds on several recent Government investments

in recreational fshing.

Last month, more than 260,000 Australian Bass were released into rivers and dams across the state, supported by $62,000 in community grants to local stocking groups.

The FAD program is funded through the

Recreational Fishing Trust and managed by the Department of Primary Industries. It represents one of several strategies designed to enhance fshing access, promote marine stewardship, and encourage participation across generations.

For maps of FAD locations, fshing codes of conduct, and deployment updates, visit the NSW Department of Primary Industries website or the FishSmart app. With the devices returning just in time for school holidays and warmer waters, NSW’s 1 million recreational fshers can expect a “reel” season of excitement along the coast.

Byron Council Backs Fairer Pool Passes for Single-Parent Families

Single-parent families in Byron Shire will soon beneft from fairer and more afordable access to local swimming pools, after Byron Shire Council voted to introduce new entry prices designed to remove long-standing inequities in family passes.

The revised pricing structure, which takes efect from 25 October 2025, will ensure that single-parent households no longer pay more than traditional two-parent families for pool access. Under the new model, a single parent with two children will pay $14 for

a single visit, plus $4 for each additional child. A season pass for the same family will cost $377, compared with the current $478 charged to a standard four-person family.

The change follows sustained advocacy from local residents, who argued that previous pricing unfairly penalised single-income households.

Byron resident Kate Walsh, a single mother who raised the issue with Council earlier this year, said the decision was a welcome recognition of everyday fnancial realities.

“Caregiving costs

make a day out disproportionately expensive for singleparent families,” she said. “While concession rates exist, the income thresholds often exclude many working single parents who are still doing it tough.”

Mayor Sarah Ndiaye, who introduced the motion, said the new structure was about creating fairness and inclusion.

“This is about acknowledging that families come in many forms and that everyone deserves equal access to community facilities,” Cr

Ndiaye said.

“The old pricing made it harder for singleparent households to enjoy our pools. This change not only fxes that imbalance but may also encourage greater community participation and wellbeing.”

The adjustment also addresses a clear pricing anomaly that saw some smaller families paying more per person than larger households.

Council’s review found that, in some cases, a single parent with one child could end up paying more than a two-parent family of four for a full-

season pass.

The move is part of the Council’s wider efort to make local recreational facilities more equitable and afordable amid increasing cost-of-living pressures.

Local community groups and social advocates have praised the reform,

describing it as a practical step towards supporting inclusivity and easing fnancial strain on singleincome families.

Updated pool pass rates and eligibility details will be available on the Byron Shire Council website and at local pool facilities later this month.

NSW Labor Delivers on Apprenticeship and Traineeship Promise

Robert Heyward

The NSW Labor Government has fulflled its commitment to expand employment and training opportunities, successfully surpassing its goal of creating 1,000 apprenticeships and traineeships across state government departments.

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan, announced that applications are now open for the fnal round of positions under the $93.5 million initiative. Funding has been approved for 432 new roles across 73 agencies — 215 apprenticeships and 217 traineeships — pushing total placements beyond the original target.

“This program shows the NSW Labor Government walking the talk when

it comes to providing opportunities for young people,” Mr Whan said.

“It’s about giving the next generation a pathway into meaningful careers while ensuring the state has a strong pipeline of skilled workers to deliver essential public services.”

Since its launch two years ago, 651 apprentices and trainees have already been placed across New South Wales, with an almost even split between regional and metropolitan locations. The program has recorded a 94 per cent retention

rate, refecting its success in creating sustainable employment and professional growth.

Participants have also been breaking traditional gender barriers. At the Port Authority of NSW, trainees Morgan Johnson and Summer Crealy

are among a small but growing group of women entering the maritime sector, where women make up just fve per cent of the seafarer workforce and three per cent of shore-based roles.

“The 1,000 Apprentices and Traineeships Program is breaking down barriers to entry by intentionally creating space for women to confdently step into industries they’re passionate about,” Ms Johnson said.

Ms Crealy added that the traineeship provided “structured training and unique industry experiences” that were previously difcult to access in regional areas like the South Coast.

Other government departments participating in the fnal round include the National Parks and Wildlife Service, NSW

Health, NSW Police, Transport for NSW, Sydney Trains, Essential Energy, and the Art Gallery of NSW

The program is part of a broader NSW Labor strategy to strengthen vocational pathways and rebuild the state’s skilled workforce.

Other initiatives include training 1,000 apprentices annually in new Manufacturing Centres of Excellence, and the $252.2 million Fresh Start for Local Government Apprentices, Trainees and Cadets Grants Program, designed to help councils employ new starters over the next six years.

Applications for the fnal round are now open via the NSW Government website and the I Work for NSW portal.

Our doors are open for small meetings, study sessions, workshops, or simply relaxing. At Hemlock’s, every cup and story is shared.

Gough revisited

Why Whitlam’s dismissal still shapes our politics

Next month marks 50 years since the sacking of the Whitlam Labor Government — an event that sent shockwaves through Australian politics which still reverberate today.

Over the next fve weeks The Northern Rivers Times will revisit that tumultuous period. We will explore how Gough Whitlam came to power, ending 23 years of Liberal–Country Party rule, and how he transformed both his party and the nation. The series will chart the triumph of his 1972 “It’s Time” election victory, trace the controversies and challenges that culminated in his dismissal three years later, and conclude with an assessment of his enduring legacy — and why, even 50 years on, the events of November 11, 1975 continue to shape the political landscape.

When Whitlam led Labor back to power on December 2, 1972, he did more than change the government — he changed what government could mean.

But that victory wasn’t just about policy; it was about identity.

To understand what Whitlam represented, and why the Labor Split of the 1950s mattered so deeply, we need to go back to those long years in opposition, when Labor was electorally squeezed and internally stuck in the past.

The 1955 Split did more than divide union halls

and party branches — it fractured the workingclass vote.

For decades, Labor had been “the workers’ party”, but after the Split, many socially conservative workers found themselves alienated, particularly in Catholic communities infuenced by the anticommunist crusader B A Santamaria.

The new Democratic Labor Party (DLP)

became a refuge for those voters — not because they’d abandoned Labor’s social mission, but because they saw in Whitlam’s predecessors a party they no longer recognised.

Arthur Calwell’s leadership through the early 1960s underscored how far Labor had drifted from the social and cultural reality of postwar Australia.

reforming the party’s internal machinery, reducing overt union control, improving discipline, and broadening its appeal.

Under his leadership, Labor began to reach out

beyond its traditional base: professionals, women, students, and second-generation immigrants.

At the 1967 Victorian state ALP conference, Whitlam warned against

fetishising defeat:

“We construct a philosophy of failure, which fnds in defeat a form of justifcation and proof of the purity of our principles. Certainly, the impotent are pure.”

It was a rebuke to the selfsh, sectarian division that had kept Labor out of power for a generation.

By the time he delivered his 1972 policy speech at Blacktown, Whitlam had distilled his message to a single, electrifying choice: “Men and Women of Australia! The decision we will make for our country on December 2 is a choice between the past and the future — between the habits and fears of the past, and the demands and opportunities of the future.”

It was not just rhetoric. Through the 60s Whitlam had worked on The Program, a blueprint for a reforming government and it had appeal in a changing electorate.

At the 1969 election, Labor under Whitlam achieved an 18-seat swing — winning a majority of the two-party-preferred vote, though still denied government by DLP preferences.

Many historians mark that moment as the point when the public signalled its readiness for change, even if the political

Calwell, who succeeded the volatile Dr H V “Doc” Evatt, remained publicly supportive of the White Australia Policy well into the 1960s.

Other Old Labor stalwarts — including Fred Daly, who had served under Curtin and Chifey — still occupied the party’s benches, clinging to a moral and political framework that had ceased to resonate with younger or more progressive voters.

Whitlam realised that Labor’s survival depended on modernisation — not just of policy, but of image, structure, and values. He set about

machinery was not yet aligned to deliver it.

Arthur Calwell, by then retired, symbolised what Labor had been — and what it had to outgrow. His politics were rooted in Depression-era solidarity and wartime sacrifce, but his moral universe was steeped in social conservatism.

Whitlam, by contrast, saw Labor not as the “workers’ party” but as a national movement — a government-in-waiting that spoke to aspiration, fairness, and inclusion.

As academic Jenny Hocking later wrote in Gough Whitlam and the Remaking of the Australian Labor Party, Whitlam’s genius was “reconnecting Labor to an electorate that had drifted away — not only in economics, but in culture.”

That reconnection was the quiet revolution before the loud one.

Although it didn’t look like it midway through the decade, the Liberal Party were in a period of decline.

The 1960s were meant to be the golden age of

Australian conservatism.

Robert Menzies, master politician and founder of the Liberal Party, towered over Canberra, commanding a majority so secure it seemed eternal.

Yet, even before his resignation in 1966, the cracks were showing.

The 1961 election was a near-death experience for his government — the

years of chaos.

Country Party leader John McEwen refused to serve under Billy McMahon, declaring he “couldn’t countenance” him as prime minister, forcing the Coalition to scramble for a compromise.

Senator John Gorton emerged as an unlikely PM but soon found his leadership besieged from within.

The party that once embodied stability now looked like a snake eating its own tail.

characters as diverse as veteran Liberal MP Jim Killen to acerbic political commentator Mungo MacCallum, that captured the public’s view of their PM.

Meanwhile, Whitlam had remade Labor into a disciplined, modern, outward-looking party.

The contrast was impossible to miss: while the conservatives clung to relics of the past, Labor was ofering a vision for the future.

closest Labor had come to power since the war.

The “Faceless Men” election of 1963, which Menzies cleverly used to portray Labor as controlled by unseen union bosses, delayed the reckoning but did not prevent it.

After Menzies retired, things began to unravel. Harold Holt’s landslide win in 1966, built on

public support for the Vietnam War, proved short-lived.

By the late 60s the war was poison, and in December 1967 Holt vanished into the surf — literally. His disappearance entered the lexicon: to “do a Harold Holt” became rhyming slang for “bolt” or vanish suddenly.

What followed was fve

When McMahon fnally did ascend to the prime ministership in 1971, even his colleagues struggled to hide their distaste, with fellow minister Paul Hasluck describing McMahon as “a contemptible creature”.

And Whitlam’s description of him in this period, as “Tiberius with a telephone” was cutting and vividly captured this paranoid period of political theatre.

But it was the phrase that he looked like “a Volkswagen with both doors open” that crops up repeatedly, from

By 1969 – the Don’s Party election – the Coalition’s dominance was cracking.

The DLP’s last-minute preferences still saved the Liberals — their fnal act as kingmakers — but the tide had turned.

When defeat fnally came in 1972, it seemed inevitable.

The Coalition’s fall, to borrow from Hemingway, came “gradually, then suddenly.”

Whitlam had defeated two enemies: the ghosts within his own party and the old order that had ruled Australia for a generation. And in doing so, he reshaped not only Labor — but the nation itself.

Grafton’s Ken Weeks marks 112 remarkable years

By Tim Howard

Grafton man Ken Weeks has reached a milestone few can imagine — celebrating his 112th birthday on Sunday, October 5, surrounded by family, friends, and staf at Whiddon Grafton, the aged care home he has called home since 2018.

The Clarence Valley’s oldest resident, Mr Weeks was formally recognised earlier this year as Australia’s oldest man, surpassing the previous record set by Dexter Kruger, who lived to 111 years and 188 days.

Born in Grafton in 1913 to Darcy Weeks and Dorothy Forster (née Loxton), Mr Weeks grew up on a riverside farm at Swan Creek with his four siblings, later attending Carrs Creek Primary School and Grafton High School.

In 1941, he married Jean McPhee, with whom he had two sons, Ian and Noel (deceased).

Though he was rejected from the Royal Australian Air Force during World War II due to his height

birthdays which have become milestones in longevity. This image is from 2024 birthday celebration.

— just 1.5 metres — he supported the war efort by helping to construct airfelds at Evans Head, Cofs Harbour and Nabiac.

Over his long life, Mr Weeks worked in a wide range of jobs, from road construction and truck driving to running a radio and electrical repair business, a milk bar, and later co-owning a car dealership while also driving a bus. He eventually served

Proposed Road Disposal Section 152D Roads Act 1993

as a clerk in an electoral ofce before retiring at 65.

A man of faith and routine, Mr Weeks was a dedicated member of the Grafton Presbyterian Church of Eastern Australia.

He attributes his longevity to clean living — he has never smoked or drunk alcohol — and to staying active.

Well into his centenarian years, he continued walking to town for his shopping before later

In accordance with section 152D of the Roads Act 1993, notice is hereby given of the proposed sale of the Crown public roads listed in Schedule 1. If a sale proceeds, the road(s) will cease to be a public road upon transfer of the road to freehold land in accordance with section 152H of the Act.

Schedule 1:

• Crown roads at Myrtle Creek, within and/or adjoining 255 & 420 Avenue Road. (File Ref: 25/09573, Cluster: 680127)

All interested persons are hereby invited to make submissions concerning the proposal to Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure – Crown Lands, PO Box 2215, DANGAR NSW 2309 within twenty-eight (28) days of the date of this advertisement.

Any person is entitled to make submissions with respect to the sale or disposal of the road.

Please note that submissions may be referred to third parties (such as council or the applicant) for consideration in accordance with the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 For the Manager, Divestments

For further enquiries please visit the website roads.crownland.nsw.gov.au or contact Mandy Ade by email at mandy.ade@crownland.nsw.gov.au or on (02) 6640 3923 quoting fle references above.

switching to an electric tricycle to maintain his independence.

After moving into aged

care seven years ago, Mr Weeks has continued to inspire those around him with his optimism and humility.

In 2023, Heinz Australia marked his 110th birthday with 300 personalised cans of his favourite food — baked beans.

His 112th birthday has drawn messages of congratulations from around the world, coordinated by LongeviQuest, the global authority on maximum human longevity.

Whiddon CEO Chris Mamarelis described Mr Weeks as “a cherished member of our community” and said the organisation was honoured to celebrate such an extraordinary

milestone with him.

Mr Weeks’ granddaughter Eunice said her grandfather’s life embodies the Australian spirit.

“His determination, ingenuity, and hope are inspirational,” she said. “He has a stunning faith in God. We love him, and we’re happy to be his family.”

To mark the occasion, Whiddon Grafton presented Mr Weeks with a special gift and a plaque recognising his recordbreaking longevity — a ftting tribute to a life that has spanned two World Wars, the Great Depression, fve global pandemics, and the dawn of television, the internet, and artifcial intelligence.

New Book Celebrates the Majesty of the Clarence River

Robert Heyward

HOOKED ON THE CLARENCE: A sweeping new publication, The Clarence River – Chronicles of “the cod”, spans more than four decades of stories, environmental refection, and breathtaking photography — capturing the very soul of one of Australia’s most extraordinary waterways. Authored, photographed, and designed by local adventurer Graeme Bowes, the 263-page book is a visual and literary celebration of the Clarence River Catchment, featuring over 300 stunning images and deeply personal accounts that pay homage to the river’s natural beauty, cultural depth, and enduring

signifcance.

Printed locally in Yamba, the book stands as both a heartfelt tribute to community and place and a timely reminder of the environmental challenges facing the region.

At its core, The Clarence River – Chronicles of “the cod” is a call to reconnect with the river — to explore, understand, and protect it.

, former English teacher at Maclean High School, the publication benefts from her editorial precision and deep appreciation for language. Acclaimed local photographer Debrah Novak has also contributed captivating images, including the stunning front and back cover shots that frame the river in all its glory.

Meet the project team and learn more

Emu Park Energy Pty Ltd is proposing to design, construct and operate a solar farm, Batery Energy Storage System (BESS), and associated infrastructure, situated at Emu Park Road and Coraki Ellangowan Road in Ellangowan. You are invited to atend Community Information Sessions to meet the project team, view maps and concept plans, and ask questions about the project.

Tuesday, 14 October 2025

9am-12pm and 4pm–7pm (drop in any time), Coraki Youth Hall, 77 Bridge Street, Coraki

This

With contributions from well-known local voices including Dr Stuart Rowland, Shae Fleming , and Hayley Talbot, the book blends science, storytelling, and personal experience to paint a vivid portrait of the Clarence in all its majesty.

“This book is about inspiring people to get of their butt and see what this area has to ofer,” said author Graeme Bowes. “It’s a reminder of the beauty and splendour that surrounds us — and the threats the river faces.”

Edited by Trish Bowes

From the towering escarpments to the tranquil backwaters, Bowes’ work reveals a lifelong love afair with the Clarence and the people who live along its banks. It’s a book that speaks to locals, visitors, anglers, and anyone who fnds joy in the rhythm of fowing water and the stories it carries.

Whether for its photography, historical insight, or heartfelt advocacy, The Clarence River – Chronicles of “the cod” is a must-read for anyone who cherishes Australia’s natural heritage.

Teacher resilience: Hybrid uni-school model for student teachers aims to prevent burnout and increase teaching quality

Jef Gibbs

Southern Cross University has launched a radical new learning approach that will see student teachers begin working in a classroom from the frst week of their teaching degree.

The Reimagining Teacher Education (RiTE) project, in collaboration with the Diocese of Lismore Catholic Schools, is designed to transform how teachers are prepared for the classroom in both primary and secondary schools.

From March 2026, a select group of Master of Teaching students will be placed into Diocese schools in Tweed Heads, Pottsville and Cofs Harbour (where the secondary school teaching cohort will be placed, two days a week).

Master of Teaching students commonly have

an undergraduate degree in another discipline and complete two years of postgraduate study to become qualifed teachers.

Leading the RiTE project

Associate Professor David Turner said it ofered immersive, hands-on learning for teaching students who would ultimately be better prepared for the demands of a teaching career.

“We want to nurture resilient, capable teachers who are not only classroom-ready but school-ready, equipped for a satisfying, long-term career in the profession.

A notable innovation in the project is that the student teachers will be supported by experienced school educators who are also Fellows of the University to help close the gap between theory and practice.

“This is a model based on extensive research from a community of practice at Southern Cross University, showing student teachers thrive with early exposure to the dynamics of a school and high quality classroom practice, together with structured mentoring,” he said.

Participants in the project will work alongside experienced educators and be mentored along the way as they build skills and

professional networks.

Adam Spencer, Director of Catholic Schools, Diocese of Lismore said: “Our schools are energised by the opportunities this project will bring. Having aspiring teachers learning in our classrooms from the very beginning of their studies means our students and staf will beneft from fresh perspectives and additional support, while these future teachers gain real experience in a supportive environment. We are proud to be working with Southern Cross University to create a model that strengthens teacher preparation and contributes to the long-term future of the profession.”

Australia continues to face a national shortage of teachers and the latest workforce survey by the Australian Institute for Teaching and School

Leadership showed around a quarter of teachers were considering leaving the profession within the next fve years, with administration workload and a perceived lack of support among top reasons.

“Teaching can be a fantastic, life-long career and our teaching degrees have signifcant professional placements. We are taking that one step further with RiTE.

“By immersing student teachers in cohorts in the real world of teaching when they are still students not only develops better teachers, it builds lasting support networks. These graduates will have a much greater chance of success over the course of their working lives,” said Professor Turner.

Key aspects of the program:

l 50 places available for the 2026 cohort

l Master of Teaching students will be embedded in schools from March 2026

l Two-day-a-week immersive school experience during school terms

l Enhanced support and mentoring from experienced educators

l Primary school places available in Diocese of Lismore schools in Tweed Heads, Pottsville and Cofs Harbour where secondary school placements will be available.

The RiTE program is part of a signifcant research partnership between Southern Cross University and the Diocese of Lismore Catholic Schools.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v= JPxeJO7rJKs&t=179s

NSW Labor Cracks Down on Illegal Tobacco Sales as Licensing Enforcement Begins

Robert Heyward

From midnight tonight, all NSW tobacco and vaping retailers must hold a valid licence to legally sell their products, as the NSW Labor Government’s new Tobacco Licensing Scheme ofcially moves into full enforcement.

The three-month grace period that began on 1 July 2025 ends today, marking a signifcant shift in how tobacco and vaping sales are regulated across the state. From tomorrow, any retailer or wholesaler without a valid licence displayed at the point of sale will face substantial penalties.

Retailers who submitted

a valid licence application before the 1 October deadline can continue trading until their application is processed.

Health Minister Ryan Park said the new scheme closes a major gap left by the former Liberal Government, which failed to introduce a licensing framework despite every other Australian state already doing so.

“The previous government left NSW behind in illegal tobacco enforcement,”

Mr Park said. “This long-overdue licensing scheme gives us the tools to identify and target illegal tobacconists. My message to those doing the wrong thing is clear — sooner

or later, we will come for you.”

The licensing system will be managed by the new Centre for Regulation and Enforcement (CRE) within NSW Health, which will work with state and federal agencies to coordinate compliance.

The scheme is part of a broader crackdown on illegal tobacco and vaping products.

Recent legislative changes under the Tobacco

Legislation (Closure Orders) Amendment Act 2025 have also introduced tougher penalties — including fnes of up to $660,000 for individuals and $880,000 for corporations selling tobacco without a licence.

Businesses caught selling illicit products may also face closure orders of up to 12 months, and new ofences carry maximum penalties of $1.54 million or seven years’ imprisonment NSW Chief Health Ofcer Dr Kerry Chant welcomed the measures, saying they would help identify legitimate retailers and protect public health.

“Tobacco use remains one

of the biggest causes of premature death in NSW,” Dr Chant said. “This scheme gives us greater oversight and allows enforcement against those operating outside the law.” In the past fnancial year, NSW Health inspectors seized more than 14 million cigarettes, 2,800 kilograms of illicit tobacco, and 200,000 illegal vaping products, worth an estimated $21.8 million

Retailers can apply for licences online via Service NSW, while individuals seeking help to quit smoking can contact the NSW Quitline on 13 7848 or visit icanquit.com.au for confdential support.

History within the walls of church sale

By Samantha Elley

It was brand new in 1900 when it was ofcially opened to the faithful as the Wesleyan Church in Brushgrove.

Today it is on the market, ripe for a conversion, not in the spiritual sense, but perhaps for someone’s forever home.

Agent Benny Holder of Elders Real Estate, Clarence Valley said the current owner has only had it for a year.

“There has been a change in circumstances for the owner,” he said.

“But it had been sold to her by the Uniting Church in August 2024.”

The church has undergone many renovations over the years.

The most recent renovations were in 2000 when the congregation celebrated its centenary.

As family groups and pioneers arrived on the Clarence River in the 1860s, thanks to the opening up of farmland through the Robertson Free Selection Act, the need

for community structures became apparent.

There were many Wesleyan families who wanted a place for their Sunday gatherings and the frst service was organised in 1868 in the shed at the public wharf.

And so, plans were made to build their own church.

The frst church was built at a cost of 120 pounds by Mr Foggo and the frst service in the new church was held by Reverend G Rutledge and Reverend R Allen in 1873.

By the end of the 19th century the need for a new

church became apparent and the current building foundation stone was laid on 3 November 1900.

Three hundred people from the surrounding districts attended the opening.

Aside from church services the building was used as a gathering spot for The Band of Hope in 1913, a social gathering for young people, the Brushgrove branch of Temperance Alliance NSW formed in 1912 and Christian Endeavour which held social evenings.

Many pastors came and went, families raised their children, young couples married, older people died, all under the umbrella of the church family as it evolved from Wesleyan to Methodist and fnally to Uniting.

The frst wedding held at the church was between Charlotte Firth and William Connor on 15 October, 1902.

A memorial service was held in 1916 for those in the district who did not return from the Great War.

The church has seen its fair share of foods being

hit hard in 1921 and again in 1928 which went as high as six metres.

Overall, between 1885 to 1980 there had been 34 major foods.

People frst walked or caught a boat to the church, to be replaced by horse and sulky as the roads improved and then fnally motor cars.

In 1985, a community celebration church service was held as part of the centenary of the village of Brushgrove with over 70 people in attendance.

Eventually, weekly and even regular nightly

services dwindled to two services a month and then fnally closed.

References

l ‘Our Heroic Dead’, The Grafton Argus and Clarence River General Advertiser, Mon 29 Nov 1916, Page 2 l ‘Brushgrove Uniting Church; our church centenary 1900-2000’, Camden Theological College, accessed 2nd October, 2025, Brushgrove Uniting Church; our church centenary 1900-2000. | Illuminate

Ballina Council Opens Consultation

on Proposed Special Rate Variation

Jef Gibbs

Ballina Shire Council is inviting the community to provide feedback on a proposed Special Rate Variation (SRV) that could see general rates rise above the state-set rate peg from 1 July 2026. The proposal is now open for consultation until Friday 14

November 2025

If adopted, the SRV would allow Council to increase general rates by 6% annually from 2026/27 to 2029/30. This fgure combines the NSW Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal’s (IPART) estimated rate peg of 3.25% with an additional 2.75% applied through the SRV. The change would afect only the general rates component. Charges for water, wastewater, waste collection and stormwater would remain unchanged.

Financial Impact on Ratepayers

Council has provided modelling to show how the proposed increases would impact households, farmland and businesses across Ballina Shire.

• Residential properties: By 2029/30, the average residential ratepayer would pay $1,665 under the SRV compared with $1,499 without it — a diference of $166, bringing the total increase over four years to $346

• Farmland properties: The average farmland rate would rise to $2,607 under the

SRV compared with $2,347 without it — a diference of $260,with a total increase of $542

• Business properties:

The largest increase is projected for businesses, rising to $5,390 under the SRV compared with $4,852 without it — a diference of $538, with a total increase of $1,121

Council noted that individual rates will still vary depending on land values set by the NSW Valuer General.

To assist households and businesses, an online rates calculator is available at yoursayballina.com.au

Why Council Is Seeking a Special Variation

Mayor Sharon Cadwallader said the proposal has been developed to secure stable funding and maintain fnancial resilience.

“Council has consistently managed its fnances responsibly, keeping rates around 11% lower than other similar-sized councils, while delivering quality

services and facilities,” she said.

“However, like many councils across NSW, the costs of renewing and maintaining essential infrastructure such as roads, footpaths, parks and community buildings have outpaced income. On top of this, state and federal governments are increasingly shifting responsibilities to local councils without providing the funding needed to deliver them.”

The Mayor emphasised that while Council has achieved savings through efciencies and external grants, these measures are no longer enough to keep pace with infation and demand.

“We recognise many households are under pressure with the rising cost of living. This proposal has not been put forward lightly, but without action our ability to maintain services and renew infrastructure will continue to decline.”

Community Benefts

If the SRV is approved, Council says the additional funds would

be invested directly into essential services and community infrastructure. Planned investment areas include:

• Renewing and repairing roads, footpaths and stormwater systems

• Maintaining parks, sporting felds, libraries, pools and community centres

• Enhancing community safety measures

• Supporting biodiversity projects and waterway health improvements

“These are the services and facilities our residents value most — from safe streets and stormwater drainage to recreational facilities and natural environment programs,”

Cr Cadwallader said.

“The SRV will help secure the long-term sustainability of these assets.”

How to Have Your Say

Residents and businesses are encouraged to:

• Visit yoursayballina. com.au to access surveys, a question box, rate calculators, FAQs and strategic planning documents.

• Pick up printed information packs at the Council Customer Service Centre, 40 Cherry Street, Ballina

• Attend a listening post to speak directly with Council’s fnance team:

• Wednesday 8 October (10am – 11.30am)

• Thursday 30 October (2pm – 3.30pm)

• Tuesday 4 November (12pm – 1.30pm)

Next Steps

Once community consultation ends on 14 November 2025, Council will review submissions and decide whether to proceed with a formal application to IPART in February 2026

As part of its assessment, IPART will consider:

• Council’s fnancial position

• The extent of community consultation

• Evidence of need for additional revenue to sustain essential services

Ratepayers and interest groups will also have a further three-week opportunity to lodge submissions directly with IPART once the application is lodged.

Rate Forecast Comparison

2026–2030

How the Special Rate Variation (SRV) would afect average ratepayers Residential Properties

• Without SRV (3.25% peg only):

$1,499 by 2029/30

• With SRV (6% annual increase):

$1,665 by 2029/30

• Total extra cost:

$346 (vs $180 without SRV)

Farmland Properties

• Without SRV:

$2,347 by 2029/30

• With SRV: $2,607 by 2029/30

• Total extra cost: $542 (vs $282 without SRV) Business Properties

• Without SRV: $4,852 by 2029/30

• With SRV: $5,390 by 2029/30

• Total extra cost: $1,121 (vs $583 without SRV)

Figures based on average land values and estimated increases from 2026/27 to 2029/30. Individual rates will vary according to land values assessed by the NSW Valuer General.

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“

Leemo has views on just about anything”

OF JUMPING ANTS & DIVORCE

I ‘Leemo Cat’ spoke: ‘Mum Jane, who ARE Nic & Keith? And why is the fact that they’re gonna get a ‘Divorce’ & live in diferent houses in the news these days? Mum softly patted my head. ‘Hmmm my boy, it seems you DO read SOME news after all even if it’s only gossip stuf. They are VERY famous people Leems. Nic is a highly regarded Australian Actress & Keith sings songs.’ I pondered? ‘Hmmm, Mum, I reckon there has gotta be more real news stuf surely? From memory, you’ve been through a divorce thingie haven’t you? Was yours in the news?’ (The next head pat was more like a bif! eeek!) NUP, IT WAS NOT in the news Leems. I can most certainly ‘act-up’ dreadfully at times relative to circumstance & timing but NOT as ‘acting’ in movies: Nor, can I sing, so my divorcie thing didn’t rate a mention - gottit?’ Aaargh – I had more to ask. I’ll sneak just 1 in. ‘Mum, ‘IF’ me & ‘Treasure’ had got married & later divorced, what would have happened? ‘Well Leems you would have been legally obliged to GIVE ‘Treasure’ HALF of all your possessions: I calculate her ½ to be 3 plush blue blankies, 2 pillows,1 China water bowl, 2 China treat bowls, a combo of 8 stufed bears, puppies & rats,1 Feathers on a Stick toy, 1cat bed, 1 litter tray + 1 bag of litter, 5 ‘Bluey’ movies, $11.22 in cash, 1 cat

grooming brush, and, on LAST count, approx.18 cans of Fancy Feast.’ (Crikey, no wonder a lot of cats don’t get married. 18 CANS and 3 plush blankies. OMG!!) (Mum also informed me ‘Treasure’ could have asked to keep the marital home which is HER (Mum’s) downstairs bedroom so PLEASE DON’T go making any more marriage proposals Leems unless myself & a Lawyer are present!’ GOTTIT?’ (she’s SO annoying!) AND, Leems, keep in mind that no matter how famous or NOT famous a couple might be, divorce can be most heartbreaking for all involved.’ Eeek: Change subject: ‘Mum, I’ve had a stressy week & it was kind of you to take me to see Vet Richard Mon ref. my painful back right leg.’ ‘Leems, you ran into our house howling on Sunday morning: hid in your bedroom, yowled & mauled me when I came near you. (7 mauls on my hands & arms.) You wouldn’t eat which was astonishing & also indicated to me you were VERY poorly. I prepared your ‘travel’ carrier: new pillow & freshly ironed pillowcase & slept in your room Sun. night – remember?’ ‘Errm, sorta Mum, but I was ‘probly in pain delirium.’ (she did an eye roll!?) On Mon. Richard examined you head to toe & found zilcho wrong with you apart from yowls when he touched your back right leg. You have medicine for infammation ‘in case.’ At home, I put you on a plush blankie on your viewing shelf with treats close-by. (My CWA buddie Audrey reckons you were ‘probly bitten by a jumping ant and would assuredly recover.) ‘I’m keeping a VERY close eye on you Leems!’ (OMG, Nooooo!). ‘AND, stop reading silly gossip –OK?’ As I’m under supervision I can’t run up the escape tree or meet with the Buddies. Nitey with a ¼ sulky purr only. Leemo.

Letters to the Editor

Have your say in The Northern Rivers Times!

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

Mockery of Struggling Residents

How dare Clarence Valley Council joke about smashing caravans when so many residents face eviction? This isn’t comedy, it’s cruelty. Elderly and vulnerable people are clinging to their homes, and council staf think it’s entertainment. That email is a window into a toxic culture that has lost touch with community values. Heads should roll, starting with the general manager.

— P. Johnson, Grafton

Macquarie Group

So, the Macquarie group just been fned for allowing vulnerable people to lose their savings, a piddling amount as banks talk in Billions. No penalty, but assurances that they will endeavour to be sure it will never happen again. But we have heard it all before especially from CBA.

I someone is in a desperate situation and as a last resort robs a bank and is inevitably caught, they go to jail. Nothing like that for bank people. For many years now I have

not had an account with any of the big 4 banks... and quite happy with that.

T. Stormon, Goonelabah

A Disgrace to Our Town

The cowards who sprayed that grafti didn’t just attack Roy’s café — they attacked Evans Head’s reputation. We’re now linked to racism in national headlines. They’ve shamed the entire town with their ignorant actions.

— L. Henderson, Woodburn

A Danish with a Twist Hats of to The Northern Rivers Times team for the Apricot Danish recipe and that photo with the screwdriver beside the food — absolutely brilliant! Only this paper could make a smoko snack look like a workshop project. It had me chuckling before I even turned the oven on. The mix of good humour, easy cooking, and clever presentation is why I never skip the recipe page. Keep it coming — you’ve nailed the recipe for fun.

— J. Carmichael, Tugun

Council Has Lost the Plot

The council has sunk to new lows. Making a skit about destroying caravans, while families fear losing the roof over their heads, is heartless beyond belief. Any decent workplace would condemn such behaviour, not excuse it as “staf sharing ideas.”

This shows utter contempt for ratepayers. If the leadership can’t recognise the damage, they don’t deserve to be in charge.

— L. McKenzie, Yamba

No Place for Racism Here

To target Roy and his family is vile. They’ve built their life here, raised kids, and contribute to our community. Attacking them for events happening thousands of kilometres away is pathetic and reeks of ignorance. Evans Head is better than that.

— C. Bryant, Evans Head

A Cruel Insult

For decades, the Jacaranda Festival has been a source of pride. Now council has turned it into a circus of cruelty. Using “wrecking balls” and “clowns” as humour when livelihoods are at stake insults not just caravan residents but the entire community. The GM’s defence is hollow. Resignation is the only

respectable course.

— S. O’Reilly, Maclean

Not Leadership, Just Bullying

Let’s call this out for what it is: workplace bullying dressed up as “fun.” Staf mocking people who are already down is disgraceful. If this is the kind of “positive culture” the GM is proud of, then she needs to go. Leadership means compassion, not laughing at the vulnerable.

— H. Turner, Iluka

Shame on the Cowards

It disgusts me that someone would vandalise a café simply because the owners are Jewish Israelis. This is Australia, not a battleground for overseas politics. Dragging the Gaza confict into a local family business is cowardly racism. Whoever did this should be ashamed. We’re supposed to be better than this.

— J. Morton, Ballina

Community Betrayal

What shocks me most is how unsurprising this feels. That’s the real tragedy — we’ve come to expect cruelty from Clarence Valley Council. This email is more proof that residents’ sufering is treated as a joke inside council chambers. Trust is gone. The community deserves better.

— M. Clarke, Coutts Crossing

Accountability Means Action

It’s not enough for the GM to say “bad ideas happen.” Accountability means consequences. Who will be disciplined? Who will apologise? If nothing happens, then council is complicit. Residents fghting for their homes deserve answers, not dismissive platitudes.

— K. Fraser, Ulmarra

Festival Humour or Festival Shame?

Jacaranda Festival used to bring people together. Now it risks being remembered for council’s shocking lack of empathy. The leaked “wrecking ball” image is ofensive and humiliating for caravan residents. Stop calling this culture “accountable” — it’s shameful and destructive.

— D. Matthews, Lawrence

Community Should Be Furious

I’m furious that this family, who lost a business

in the foods and rebuilt from scratch, now has to face racist attacks. Where’s the line? Today it’s grafti, tomorrow it could be worse. The community must demand zero tolerance for this behaviour.

— H. Collins, Byron Bay

Families Deserve Better Reading about homes being demolished instead of repaired is heartbreaking. These were people’s lives, memories and investments. I understand safety concerns, but too often government “solutions” mean destruction rather than innovation. More could have been done to strengthen and protect, rather than wipe streets clean.

— D. Hughes, South Lismore

Social Housing Win

At least one of the buyback homes is being repurposed for social housing — fnally, some compassion in all this. With homelessness rising, turning a house into safe accommodation is a sensible and humane move. We need more of this practical thinking.

— A. Reynolds, Mullumbimby

A True Community Doctor

The tribute to Dr Bill Costello was moving. His legacy in both medicine and agriculture is remarkable. A man who accepted payment in eggs and fsh shows real dedication to people, not proft. We could use more doctors with his heart today.

— M. Harrington, Grafton

Remembering Bill With Gratitude

I was one of Dr Costello’s patients many years ago, and I can honestly say he saved my life. He treated us all with dignity and kindness. The Valley has lost a true gentleman.

— R. Dawson, Ulmarra

Too Slow for Our Needs

Three years to fx Lions Road is beyond a joke. Local businesses are hurting, farmers are cut of, and visitors are bypassing us. Council keeps asking for patience, but our patience has limits. This recovery is moving at a snail’s pace, and it’s costing livelihoods.

— B. Carter, Rathdowney

Steak & Onions Winner

I tried the braised steak and onions recipe — wow! The whole house smelled amazing, and the meat just melted. Comfort food at its best. Whoever writes these recipes deserves a medal.

— H. McDonald, Ballina

Distrust in Bureaucracy

I can’t help but feel like the Reconstruction Authority is more focused on reports, approvals and recycling percentages than on people’s real struggles. Families forced out of their homes don’t care about “70% recovery rates” — they care about where they’re living now. Bureaucratic spin doesn’t equal recovery.

— T. Blake, Casino

Hope for Lions Road

It’s good to fnally see progress on the Lions Road repairs. This stretch has been closed far too long, and it’s been frustrating for locals and tourists alike. But credit where it’s due: the scale of the damage was massive, and rushing the job would only put lives at risk. I’d rather wait until 2026 and have a safe, long-lasting road than a quick fx that fails again.

— J. Edwards, Kyogle

Apricot Danish Delight That Smoko Special apricot danish is a gem! Quick, tasty, and looks fancy enough for guests. I’ve made a batch twice already. Thank you for making baking approachable (and fun!).

— R. Clarke, Kyogle

The Steak That Seduced Me

I don’t know what sorcery your recipe writer is using, but after six hours with that braised steak

and onions, I was ready to propose marriage to my slow cooker. The meat was so tender it practically whispered sweet nothings at me. And the commentary? Comparing four armour to a dodgy ex had me laughing so hard I nearly dropped the Worcestershire sauce. More of this culinary comedy, please — it makes dinner taste even better.

— K. Sullivan, Tenterfeld

Purrfect Entertainment Leemo is hands down my favourite part of the Northern Rivers Times. The mix of cat wisdom and human silliness is pure gold. “Pussy wussy” versus “Aunty Warnty” was priceless — I read it aloud to my kids and we all cracked up. Please keep giving Leemo plenty of space every week.

— J. Martin, Casino

Apricot Danish or Apricot Stand-Up Act?

The Smoko Special apricot danish recipe was less about baking and more about comedy gold. I laughed until my oven timer beeped. Who else calls an apricot half a “tiny hi-vis helmet”? Brilliant. And miracle of miracles — my pastries didn’t look like burnt frisbees for once. The writer deserves a medal for making even my kitchen disasters fun.

— D. Harper, Lismore

Basketball on the Rise Byron basketball is thriving, and the Beez’ results prove it. The juniors not only performed on the court but carried themselves with maturity and respect. That’s the mark of a strong club culture. I can’t

wait to see what next season brings.

— J. Adams, Bangalow Dementia Symposium

Vital The Dementia Inclusive Symposium is exactly the kind of initiative our region needs. With an ageing population, these programs help carers and families feel less isolated. I hope this becomes a model for other communities.

— A. Stewart, Ballina

Leemo Brightens the Page

I always look forward to Leemo’s antics — this week’s take on headlines had me laughing out loud. The wit, the imagination, and the cheeky way of looking at news makes the paper feel lighter. In tough times, it’s refreshing to have a column that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Long live Leemo and the buddies!

— S. Rowe, Ballina

Congratulations to the Coaches

The young Beez players deserve applause, but so do their coaches. Dave Shaw and Gary Lucas clearly put their heart and soul into mentoring these kids. Teaching skills is one thing, but instilling sportsmanship and resilience is even more valuable.

— P. Grant, Mullumbimby

A Taste of Quality

I’ve tried the new Jack Link’s biltong and it’s delicious! Tender, favoursome and genuinely diferent from ordinary jerky. To think it’s made right here in Casino makes it taste even better. Congratulations to the team.

— H. Mitchell, Grafton

Casino Proud of Jack Link’s

Great to see Casino on the map with Jack Link’s new biltong range. Not only does it promote Australian beef, but it keeps jobs local. This is exactly the kind of industry investment our region needs.

Hopefully RVC wont get involved!

— J. Fraser, Casino

Supporting Local Farmers

Jack Link’s using 100% Australian beef is a huge plus. It means local farmers beneft directly, and our produce is recognised worldwide. This is the kind of innovation agriculture in the Northern Rivers needs.

— S. Green, Lismore

Beez Bring Home Pride

What an amazing efort by the Byron Beez juniors! To see the U12s go undefeated and take the championship is simply inspiring. These kids have shown what teamwork and dedication can achieve. Byron should be very proud.

— L. Hughes, Byron Bay

Recipe Page Brings Joy

The pasta and citrus pudding recipes are pure delight. Easy to follow, cheeky humour, and full of Northern Rivers favour. Cooking feels like entertainment now, not a chore. Keep these coming every week!

— S. Barnes, Lismore

World-Class Product From Our Region

How exciting that Casino is producing a worldclass snack now sold across Australia and New Zealand! Jack Link’s proves the Northern Rivers can compete globally while still supporting our local community. A big win for the region.

— R. Taylor, Kyogle

Making the news...

By Nigel Dawe

I’M not fully sure if it’s akin to the old notion that we get the leaders we deserve, but there seems to be a very similar correlation when it comes to getting the type of news we do. Which never fails to pose the question: ‘how on earth did we get the media execs that thought (by thinking that they think on our behalf) overall doom and gloom is what the public need, or more so deserve?’

Switch any news report on (the morning slot in particular) and you’ll typically get the staple diet of despair –along the grim lines of interpersonal violence, road accidents, myriad strife and house fres; don’t get me wrong, I couldn’t be more sympathetic to those that fnd themselves on the receiving end of such things, but does any of it constitute either national news, or anything that could be considered remotely newsworthy?

Call me naïve, an innocent abroad, and maybe even crank up

John Lennon’s Imagine song; but we all have a right to expect and demand less muck, sensationalism and menial hype when it comes to what we’re presented as news.

Heaven forbid, let’s even go out on a limb and suggest news bulletins that solely focus on bighearted and communityminded individuals that just help others. Feel good stories that raise our spirits, and not petty grabs told by overlyserious and equally over-dressed ‘anchors’.

Honestly, beach attire would be a more than adequate dress code for what the bulk of these

people have to say.

I don’t know if it’s refective of some kind of concerted dumbing down of society (by those who comfortably occupy its upper rungs) though I’m sure they don’t give anywhere near the attention to the rest of us to bother with something like that; but it is an alarming refection when you consider what the content and tone of the news actually ‘says’ about us. That it is so overwhelmingly negative, and veering towards depicting human beings at their worst, is something that needs correcting.

As American producer Joss Whedon once said, “The news isn’t there to tell you what happened. It’s there to tell you what it wants you to hear or what it thinks you want to hear.” And the last two points directly pertain to either the presence, or the absence of a society’s core values.

“A point of view,” once said the Canadian theorist Marshall McLuhan, “can be a dangerous luxury when substituted for insight and understanding... There is absolutely no inevitability as long as there is a willingness to contemplate what is happening.”

And there’s the rub: through contemplation, consideration and a willingness to push back, albeit demand an improvement in what we are exposed to, is a giant leap in the direction of a more elevated, sane, if not positively placed world. News might only be “the frst rough draft of history,” as Alan Barth once said, but it is also a narrative that must refect who we really are, and more importantly – all we could be.

Samantha’s Book

The dead may not speak but that doesn’t keep them quiet

Title: The Unquiet Grave

Author: Dervla McTiernan

Price: $25.75

Distributor: Booktopia

For years the bogs of Ireland have been ofering up the bodies of those unlucky souls that have somehow breathed their last in them.

Some of the bodies are thousands of years old and beautifully preserved, thanks to the deoxygenated mud of the bogs.

This latest grave, however, reveals a body very diferent to the others.

After a close examination it is discovered to be Thaddeus Grey, a local school principal who went missing only two years earlier.

Enter Cormac Reilly, detective in Galway, who has to sort through what minimal evidence there is to fnd his killer.

When other murders start popping up AND his ex-girlfriend comes

By Helen Trustum

CASINO SHOW

on the scene with a mystery of her own, Cormac struggles to keep his mind on the issue at hand.

Is there a serial killer in Ireland?

What trail should he go down to fnd the killer before they strike again?

Dervla McTiernan was born in County Cork in Ireland to a family of seven. She practiced as a corporate lawyer for 12 years.

After the global fnancial crisis she moved to Western Australia with her husband and two children.

Her previous books are The Ruin – winner of the Ned Kelly Award for Best First Fiction, the Davitt Award for Best Adult Fiction and the Barry Award for Best Original Paperback – The Scholar which debuted into the Neilsen Bookscan Top 5, and The Good Turn, which went straight to number one.

You can get your copy of The Unquiet Grave from Booktopia.com.au

Casino – the Squatters town, situated on the Richmond River and surrounded by large grazing properties, was a progressive town in the 1880’s. They had the frst Clerk of Petty Sessions and a Land ofce, the frst town to have a Public School and the frst on the upper river to have a hotel – the Durham Ox. In 1871, Casino was the frst town to have a telegraph connection with Sydney and the frst to have a newspaper “The Richmond River Express”. Another achievement for Casino, was yet to be made – that being the frst ever show on the Richmond River. In 1874, a meeting was held in the School of Arts where the Richmond River Agricultural, Horticultural and Pastoral Society was formed. The frst President was John C. Irving, who remained in that position for 22 years and Secretary was Alex Simpson. It was difcult to fnd a suitable ground but eventually James Britton, owner of the Commercial Hotel ofered two vacant allotments just opposite the Catholic Church for the frst show. The Temperance Society contributed with the use of their hall for the pavilion to house farm produce and other exhibits. The show was held on the day before the Irving Bridge was opened on 15th June 1876. Admission was free for the frst show. Unfortunately, it was an extremely wet day but that did not deter the 300 that turned out. Eventually fve acres across the river at South Casino was obtained in 1879. At the annual meeting held on 11th June 1888 the Show Society was praised and congratulated for possessing one of the most complete and compact Showground’s. The showground had been enclosed and at the time a contract was in progress for erecting over one hundred horse and cattle stalls. Progress followed efort and however as the ground improved

the society grew and a further 5 acres was added. By this time the railway line from Murwillumbah to Casino had been completed and enormous crowds come from all over the district on excursion train to take in the show and Casino Turf Club races which were usually arranged to coincide, so great was that in 1908 close on 2,000 people travelled by train. The high jump created quite a sensation at the 1912 show when no less than fve horses getting over the bar at 6 feet 10 inches which had never approached by any other horse on the ground.

Trustees announced in 1915 were William Simpson, Frederick Stitz, James McDougall, George Marsh, Andrew Carlton, John Fogwell and John Sullivan.

In 1917 the showground and buildings were let to the Military Department for a training camp for young men to prepare themselves for the protection of the country. The pavilion was used as temporary hospital during 1919 for the outbreak of the pneumonic plaque in Casino.

The 1939 Show was called the Centenary Show because Casino was celebrating 100 years of the settlement. The Deputy Premier and Minister for Transport Sir Michael Bruxner performed the ofcial opening.

This ground served Casino well until a storm in 1941 damaging the buildings. Sports days were held with funds going to the Patriotic funds. This show was the last for 14 years as the showground was resumed for residential buildings. Rodeo’s, then a Bushman’s Carnival was held during this time.

In the early 1950’s the show society decided on a move to the South Casino Racecourse.

Men worked voluntarily by erecting yards and forming a track around the ring. The buildings had to be built but it wasn’t until 1961 a brick pavilion was built. This building is still being used at the time of the annual show with cooking, sewing, fower and farm produce on show. The frst show in 1955 was a great success.

In 1962 Casino staged its frst show under lights. The lighting system was switched on by Mayor Ald. Richmond Manyweathers.

Casino was the frst society on the Northern Rivers to conduct the Show Girl contest run in conjunction with the R. A. S. in Sydney.

Miss Lynette Bruce was picked at random to represent Casino Show Society at Zone Finals in Tamworth in February 1964, organizers of the event were Ray Mison (President), Sylvia Hartley (Secretary) and Committee Terry McMahon, John Ramsey and Bill Middleton.

Each year the Showgirl competition brings a lot of interest with local girls facing up to the judges. Casino has had six girls go on to Sydney representing Casino Show, they were Anne Ramsey 1973, Ann Murtogh 1977, Maree Kelly 1980, Kaylene McLennan 1987, Natalie Greenough 2006 and Taylor Maloney in 2003.

The highlight of the 1974 Centenary Show was the opening of the new grandstand. The grandstand was opened by the Minister for Conservation Mr Freudenstein. The grandstand costing $10,000 replaced the old wooden stand that was destroyed by fre in 1972. The stand has seating for 480 people with a bar and beer garden under the stand. In 1975 the ofcial guests were the Prime Minister Mr Malcom Fraser and Deputy Mr Doug Anthony. Mr Fraser ofcially opened the show. The Jersey section at the show was boosted along with the holding of the Centenary Jersey Fair. A near record number of Jerseys were paraded before the judge, Mr M. J. Emmett, Victoria. Champion Jersey Cow went to “Ellerdale Dictates Pansy’ owned by Mr J. Hewett, Alstonville.

Now in 2025 Casino are about to stage their 130th annual show where the committee can be very proud of their achievements over the years of showcasing the best way possible the Casino and District.

From the Editor’s Desk: Brisbane Broncos Blaze Back to Glory

By Jef Gibbs, Editor – The Northern Rivers Times

What a night for rugby league. The Brisbane Broncos’ brilliant grand fnal victory wasn’t just a win on the scoreboard — it was a statement of heart, hunger and redemption. After years of rebuilding, reshaping and weathering the critics, the Broncos roared back to their best when it mattered most. There was something poetic about the way they played — fast, fearless and united. From the opening whistle, the Broncos refused to let the occasion overwhelm them. Every set of six was played with purpose; every tackle was a declaration that this team is back where it belongs — at the very top of the NRL. Much of that dominance

came from their stars who stood tall under the bright lights. Reece Walsh was electric, once again proving why he’s one of the most exciting players in the modern game. His acceleration of the mark, his confdence to back himself, and his connection with his outside men turned halfchances into highlights. Walsh has matured beyond his years, balancing his trademark fair with smarter decisions — the hallmark of a true superstar in the making.

Then there’s Payne Haas. The engine room. The man who never stops. Haas played like a giant among men — his sheer power through the middle set the tone for Brisbane’s physical dominance. He absorbed tackles, made the hard metres, and continually broke the line when his

team needed a spark. It’s easy to focus on the fashier moments out wide, but this win was built on Haas’s relentless drive and leadership. And what about Adam Reynolds? Calm, composed and clinical. The captain’s kicking game was masterful — pinning the opposition

deep, controlling tempo, and guiding his team around the park like a general who’s seen it all before. For a man who’s had to fght through injury clouds and doubt, this was a moment of sweet vindication. His steady hand brought balance to Brisbane’s youthful exuberance,

reminding us all why experience still matters in the big moments.

But beyond the individuals, it was the collective efort that truly inspired. The Broncos’ defence was brutal yet disciplined, their attack both structured and spontaneous. Every player knew their role

and executed it with conviction. It’s a credit to coach Kevin Walters — a proud Bronco through and through — who has managed to mould raw talent into a cohesive, confdent force. His belief in his players has been unwavering, and they repaid that faith in the most emphatic way possible. For fans across Queensland and beyond, this victory was more than just another trophy. It was a reminder of the Broncos’ legacy — the pride of the north, a club that built its success on hard work, passion, and connection with its community.

The roar that echoed through Suncorp Stadium will live long in memory. The Broncos are back — not just as champions, but as the beating heart of Queensland rugby league once more.

Who’s

Comment

By Tim Howard

really silencing whom? The free speech paradox Dunoon United FC glad to have defibrillator at Balzer Park

Everywhere you look, politicians and commentators insist “free speech is under attack.”

The right accuses the left of policing language, silencing debate, and enforcing conformity.

Yet it was not that long ago it was the left accusing the right of doing the same thing.

When you pause and consider what’s actually happening, a paradox appears: much of what gets called “censorship” is in fact more speech.

At its core, free speech has two distinct meanings.

The frst is the classic liberal version — the right not to be censored or punished by government for what you say.

This is the principle enshrined in democratic constitutions and human rights charters. In that sense, freedom of speech is protection from coercion by the state.

But there is also a second, increasingly common defnition: freedom from social consequences.

In this model, if someone is criticised, shamed, boycotted, or even just called out, that is treated as a form of silencing.

And this is where much of today’s political argument lies.

Take the case of identifying manipulative or demeaning language.

When people say “that word is harmful” or “that phrasing is misleading,” they are not stopping anyone from speaking.

They are adding their own voice to the conversation.

By challenging language, they are broadening the feld of speech, not narrowing it.

This is why many progressives argue that calling out language that controls or demeans is itself an exercise of free speech.

It’s a way of protecting open debate by ensuring it isn’t dominated by terms designed to exclude or intimidate. In this light, critique is not censorship — it’s civic responsibility. So why do these calls for accountability get branded as authoritarian?

Part of the answer lies in the realignment of politics over the past few decades.

As left-leaning parties have come to represent the educated “knowledge class,” they have been more likely to shape norms in universities, workplaces, and media.

The right, increasingly appealing to disafected working-class voters, presents itself as the outsider fghting back against elite control.

Within that frame, when an academic, journalist or HR department says “we don’t accept that kind of language here,” it can feel like an institution speaking with authority — and so it’s rebranded as censorship.

What looks like more speech from one angle appears as enforced silence from the other.

Of course, there is a genuine debate to be had about proportionality.

Losing a platform, a job, or a reputation over a clumsy remark raises questions about fairness.

But the blanket claim that “the left is silencing free

speech” confuses criticism with censorship.

It also obscures the fact that the right, too, has its own forms of speech policing — from book bans in US schools to loyalty tests on “patriotism” or “values” closer to home.

Freedom of speech has never meant freedom from criticism.

To live in a democratic society is to accept that speech has consequences — not imposed by government, but arising in the community.

Which brings us back to the paradox.

Calling for manipulative or degrading language to stop is not an attack on free speech.

It’s a demand that speech be honest, respectful, and open to challenge.

If anything, it strengthens democracy by keeping debate grounded in mutual recognition rather than intimidation.

The right to speak freely is precious. But so too is the right to answer back. Confusing the two does not protect liberty — it undermines it.

Robert Heyward

Dunoon United Football Club has installed a potentially life-saving defbrillator at its Balzer Park home ground, thanks to funding through the NSW Government’s Local Sport Defbrillator Grant Program

Lismore MP Janelle Safn said Dunoon United was one of eight local recipients in the 2024–25 funding round. The program provides up to $3,000 for sporting and recreation organisations to purchase Automated External Defbrillators (AEDs).

Club President Simon Webster said the new device was an important addition for the rural football club.

“As a rural community football club we believe it’s very important for us to have a defbrillator on site. Hopefully we will never need to use it, but it is

reassuring to know that it’s there, and that if anything should happen to a player, match ofcial or spectator, we will be able to help,” he said.

Since the program began, more than 2,300 AEDs have been funded for sports and recreation facilities across New South Wales.

Ms Safn encouraged more clubs to apply for the next round of grants.

“This is a popular and vital program. I strongly encourage local sporting and active recreation groups to apply for funding so they can provide this lifesaving equipment for their communities,” she said. Applications for the 2025–26 Local Sport Defbrillator Grant Program are now open and will close on 1 December or when funding is exhausted. Details, including eligibility criteria, are available at: sport.nsw.gov.au/grants/ local-sport-defbrillatorgrant-program

Rous Welcomes Its Next Generation of Advisors and Experts

Jef Gibbs

Rous County Council (Rous) has marked a major milestone in strengthening its workforce with the arrival of its newest recruits, thanks to signifcant support from the New South Wales Government’s Fresh Start program

Through Round 2 of the program, Rous secured $800,000 in funding, which has enabled the recruitment of a Cadet Flood Engineer and a Water Operations Trainee. These positions add to the organisation’s expanding team of apprentices, trainees, and cadets who are stepping into essential roles that directly beneft the Northern Rivers community.

Earlier this year, under Round 1 of Fresh Start, Rous received $637,000, which supported the creation of four positions: an Apprentice Mechanical Fitter, an

Apprentice Electrician, and two On Country Trainees. Together, the two rounds of funding have delivered six new opportunities, each designed to help build skills that are vital to the long-term strength of local government in the region.

Supporting Regional Opportunities Minister for Local Government, Ron Hoenig, praised the impact of the Fresh Start initiative, highlighting its value to councils across New South Wales.

“It’s fantastic to see the Fresh Start program making a huge diference in almost every corner of the state,” Mr Hoenig said. “It’s providing more job opportunities for young people in our regions and building the skills base of the local government sector so councils can continue their important role providing for NSW communities.”

For councils like Rous, which manage essential services in the Northern

Rivers, these opportunities not only provide employment for young people but also ensure the continuity of critical expertise in areas such as water management, food engineering, and community infrastructure.

Building Careers and Capability

For Rous, the program is also about creating pathways and cultivating leadership potential. Julie Davies, Rous’ People and Culture Manager, explained how the initiative is shaping the organisation’s future.

“Engaging apprentices, trainees and cadets helps to build a pipeline of future leaders within the organisation, while positioning Rous as an employer of choice,” Ms Davies said. She added that recruits will gain hands-on experience working with mentors across the organisation, building skills that are not only highly sought after in the broader job market but

also deeply valuable for the region.

Investing in the Future Workforce

Phillip Rudd, General Manager of Rous, emphasised the importance of the program in ensuring the council has the capabilities it needs to meet the community’s needs.

“As a regional organisation, it is especially important that we support the Northern Rivers workforce in building capacity for essential roles that directly beneft our community,” Mr Rudd said.

“On behalf of Rous, we extend our gratitude to the NSW Government for enabling these six pivotal roles to be embedded into our workforce.”

He added that these opportunities are laying the foundations for a new generation of skilled professionals who will carry forward the expertise required to deliver services across the region.

Major Road Safety Boost Transforms Hundreds of Kilometres of Regional Roads

Jef Gibbs

In late September, the Minns Labor Government announced a major investment in regional infrastructure, rolling out a $37.5 million road safety program that is set to transform more than 470 kilometres of statemanaged roads across New South Wales.

The initiative formed part of the government’s ongoing commitment to strengthen the safety, resilience, and reliability of the state’s transport network. Overseen by Transport for NSW, the 10-month spray sealing program began in September 2025 and was scheduled to run through until June 2026.

Extending Road Life by a Decade

The advanced spray sealing technology involves applying a protective layer of hot bitumen and aggregate to regional highways and arterial routes. This method not only

waterproofs roads against heavy rainfall but also delivers superior grip in all weather conditions.

Ofcials said the approach could extend the lifespan of a road surface by up to 10 years, while providing safer and smoother journeys for thousands of motorists.

The program built upon the government’s earlier $155 million pothole and road repair blitz, which targeted state roads across the regions. Together, the measures demonstrated a broader strategy to ensure regional communities received their fair share of infrastructure investment.

Targeting Key Corridors

More than 20 state road corridors across NSW were identifed for improvements, stretching from Broken Hill in the west to Byron Bay in the north, and as far south as Eden.

The program was divided into three regional allocations: Western NSW ($25

million): More than 300 kilometres of upgrades on key highways including the Gwydir, Kamilaroi, Carnarvon, Newell, Oxley, Castlereagh, Mitchell, Golden, Barrier and Silver City highways, as well as Mendooran Road. Works commenced in September 2025.

Southern NSW ($8.38 million): Nearly 100 kilometres of improvements across the Snowy Mountains Highway, Princes Highway, Moss Vale Road, Kosciuszko Road, Hume Highway, Illawarra Highway, Federal Highway, Appin Road and Monaro Highway. Works were scheduled between October 2025 and April 2026.

Northern NSW ($4.5 million): More than 70 kilometres of road upgrades including the New England Highway, Gwydir Highway, and Bruxner Highway. Works were scheduled to run from October 2025 through March 2026.

A Step Toward Resilience and Growth

The Fresh Start program, run by the Ofce of Local Government NSW, was designed to assist councils across the state in rebuilding and strengthening their teams. For Rous, which manages water supply, food mitigation, and catchment protection for the Northern Rivers, the program is providing essential reinforcement in areas where skills are increasingly in demand.

The initiative is not only helping to fll vital roles but also ensuring knowledge is passed on to younger workers who

will one day become leaders themselves. For the Northern Rivers, this means improved resilience, stronger infrastructure, and an enduring skills base to support local communities well into the future. With the arrival of its latest cadet and trainee, Rous has signalled a renewed commitment to developing its people while investing in the wellbeing and prosperity of the wider region. By combining local mentoring with government support, Rous is building not just a workforce, but a sustainable future for the Northern Rivers.

“Lifelines Connecting Communities” Minister for Roads and Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison, emphasised the signifcance of the program for regional residents and industries.

“The Minns Labor Government is getting on with the job of building better communities right across NSW,” Ms Aitchison said. “These aren’t just roads – they’re lifelines connecting our regional communities to jobs, healthcare, education, and each other.”

She highlighted the benefts for freight operators, farmers, tourism industries, and local businesses, stressing that strong regional roads underpin strong regional communities.

Crews began works in September around Broken Hill, with more than 45 kilometres of road already receiving spray sealing treatments by the end of the month.

“This smart investment prevents costly road reconstruction while delivering safer, more reliable travel for regional families,” Ms Aitchison said. “From the Barrier Highway to the New England Highway, we’re ensuring our rural and regional communities get the road infrastructure they deserve.”

Backed by Road Users

The announcement was welcomed by the NRMA, which praised both the funding and the use of modern road technologies.

“The NRMA welcomes this important funding commitment to improve the safety of regional highways,” spokesperson Peter Khoury said. “We particularly welcome the use of new technology which the NRMA has previously called for as it will build safer and more resilient roads.”

Building a Safer Future By delivering longlasting improvements to hundreds of kilometres of regional roads, the spray sealing program signalled a signifcant step toward safer and more resilient infrastructure. For the communities, industries, and travellers who rely on these corridors every day, the September announcement marked the beginning of a program that will extend the life of vital roads by decades and provide safer journeys well into the future.

Northern Rivers Times

Times

ENTERTAINMENT

October 09, 2025

HIM (2025) Review

A Bloody Spin on Sporting Glory

Jef Gibbs

Hollywood has long blurred the line between sport and spectacle, but HIM (2025) takes this to an extreme, attempting to transform American football into a mythsoaked horror story.

Produced by Jordan Peele’s Monkeypaw Productions, the flm attracted plenty of attention before its release, thanks to its high-concept premise and striking marketing. While its ambition is clear, the fnal result has proven divisive, with audiences and critics

split over whether the bold experiment lands or fumbles.

Cast and Characters

Leading the flm is Marlon Wayans as Isaiah

“White,” a legendary but fading NFL quarterback who refuses to let his legacy slip away. Wayans, better known for comedy, surprises here with a brooding, unsettling performance. His character is equal parts mentor, tormentor and cult leader.

Opposite him is Tyriq Withers as Cameron

“Cam,” a gifted young quarterback on the cusp of professional success. Cam idolises Isaiah but quickly fnds that his hero’s mentorship comes at a disturbing cost.

Julia Fox plays Elsie, Isaiah’s enigmatic wife, whose ambiguous loyalties add a dangerous layer of tension. Tim Heidecker portrays Tom, Cam’s manager, caught between pushing his client forward and protecting him from Isaiah’s grip. Other notable roles include Jim Jeferies as Isaiah’s doctor Marco, and Maurice Greene as

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Malek, a fanatical trainer with sinister undertones. The mix of established names and fresh faces gives the flm an unusual ensemble dynamic.

Plot Overview

The story begins with Cam as a wide-eyed teenager witnessing Isaiah sufer a careerending injury. Years later, Cam has grown into a top prospect, preparing for the NFL combine. His journey is derailed when a masked assailant attacks him, leaving him concussed and vulnerable.

Seemingly rescued by Isaiah, Cam is invited to a remote desert compound to train. What starts as intense coaching soon descends into a nightmarish initiation. Isaiah and his followers subject Cam to brutal drills, injections of Isaiah’s blood, and bizarre rituals designed to forge him into the “next G.O.A.T.” – the “Greatest of All Time.”

As Cam descends deeper into this twisted regime, he realises he is being groomed not just to succeed Isaiah on the feld, but to inherit his violent, blood-soaked mantle. The climax erupts in chaos: Cam rejects the contract binding him to Isaiah’s cult, kills his mentor in a bloody showdown, and walks alone into the desert –broken but free.

Style and Themes

The flm is drenched in allegory. By presenting football as a literal blood religion, it critiques the way athletes are commodifed and deifed. The desert setting reinforces the sense of isolation and ritual sacrifce, while dreamlike sequences blur the boundary between reality and hallucination.

Visually, HIM is bold. Spaceport America and the New Mexico desert provide an otherworldly backdrop. The cinematography leans into surrealism, with cultish masks, shadow-drenched locker rooms and slowmotion collisions giving the flm a striking, sometimes unsettling look. The score by Bobby Krlic (best known for Midsommar) pulses with dread, complemented by hip-hop tracks from artists like Tierra Whack and Denzel Curry.

Interesting Facts

The script originally appeared on the 2022 “Black List” of best unproduced screenplays under the title Goat. Peele’s Monkeypaw snapped it up, attracted by its high-concept potential. Filming wrapped in late 2024, with much of the production shot in Albuquerque. The flm runs a tight 96 minutes, with a budget of around US$27 million. Box ofce returns, however, have been modest, failing to break even at the time of writing.

Reception

Critical reaction has been mixed. Some praised the ambition and imagery, noting Wayans’ commanding presence and the originality of treating sport as horror. Others, including The Guardian and Roger Ebert.com, were far less forgiving, criticising its muddled narrative, underdeveloped mythology and lack of genuine scares. For Australian audiences, the American football context may feel remote, but the themes of hero worship, exploitation and the cost of greatness have broader relevance. Sport, after all, is a kind of religion in Australia too – from the AFL to rugby league.

Verdict

HIM (2025) is a strange beast: part sports flm, part horror, part occult fable. It rarely achieves the clarity it seeks, but it remains visually compelling and thematically provocative. For viewers curious about genre-bending cinema, it ofers a fawed but fascinating ride.

Rating: «« 1/2; out of 5

PUZZLES

TIME FOR TRIVIA

Place the digits 1 to 9 in the blue squares, so that all 6 equations are correct. Multiplication and/or division are

rst,

1 The Atacama Desert is located on which continent?

(a) Asia (b) North America (c) Africa (d) South America

2 What does the Latin term, bona fide, mean?

(a) Body of law

(b) From day to day (c) Agreement to the same (d) In good faith

3 Lucy Lawless stars as Alexa Crowe in which TV series?

(a) My Life Is Murder

(b) Mystery Road

(c) Doctor Doctor (d) 600 Bottles of Wine

4 The War of Attrition was fought chiefly between which two countries from 1967 to 1970?

(a) Israel and Egypt

(b) Kuwait and Bahrain

(c) Suadi Arabia and Qatar (d) Iraq and Turkey

(a) Barry White

(b) Quincy Jones

(c) Stevie Wonder (d) John Williams

5 Which Grammy Award-winner was born Barry Eugene Carter?

6 The martial art of Zen Do Kai originated in which country?

(a) Russia

(b) Japan

(c) South Korea (d) Australia

BEST ON THE BOX

MONDAY

SAM PANG TONIGHT

TEN, 8.40pm

If recent headlines are any indicator, the latenight variety show format is on its way to being an endangered species in the United States. The clock is ticking for cancelled CBS institution The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, while Jimmy Kimmel Live! is on thin ice after being suspended last month. However, in Australia, the tradition is once again alive and well –after years without a successful tonight show – thanks to Sam Pang’s (pictured) Logie-nominated e orts. The comedian returns for a second season on Monday, with special guest Rosie O’Donnell. Pang says of his fellow tonight show hosts’ ght for survival: “I plan to Steven Bradbury this thing and be the last one standing.”

FRIDAY, October 10

TUESDAY BUMP

NBN, 8.35pm

If you’re just now catching up on this quality homegrown drama, welcome to the chaotic, complicated lives of the Hernández and ChalmersDavis clans. There’s ve seasons – and a forthcoming Christmas movie – on Stan, but Nine is taking free-toair viewers back to where it all began. Last week, we met ambitious teenager Oly (Nathalie Morris, pictured) on the most extreme day of her life – the day the schoolgirl delivered a surprise baby and everything changed. In “Relative Strangers”, Oly is determined to get back to school, baby in tow, but her rst day is derailed by a declaration from Santi (Carlos Sanson Jnr).

An honourable mention goes to Claudia Karvan as Oly’s mum Angie, who’s the heart and soul of this series.

WEDNESDAY

THE IDEA OF AUSTRALIA

SBS, 7.30pm

“In the tale of Australia, where does the myth end and the truth begin?” So asks acclaimed actor ths (pictured) in the trailer for this intriguing fourpart series that questions how Australians see themselves and their future. The rst instalment dives into the idea that we live on the land of a ‘fair go’. It’s a long-held belief that we live in an egalitarian society, but is it actually true when there’s a growing gap between the rich and poor? Among the pioneering Aussies who share their views over four episodes are activist and 2021 Australian of the Year Grace Tame, lmmaker Rachel Perkins, journalist Ray Martin and former Socceroo and human rights advocate Craig Foster.

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

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News Mornings. 10.00 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (R)

10.30 The Paci c. 12.00 ABC News At Noon.

1.00 Mystery Road: Origin. (Mal, R)

1.50 Restoration Australia. (R)

2.55 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (PG, R)

3.25 Grand Designs. (PG, R)

4.15 Long Lost Family. (R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Gardening Australia. Costa Georgiadis discovers the art of topiary.

8.30 Professor T. (Ma) Professor T is asked to investigate the murder of a doctor and her family when they are found dead on their living room sofa.

9.15 Hard Quiz. (PGs, R) Presented by Tom Gleeson.

9.50 Mother And Son. (PGdl, R) Maggie reveals her savings.

10.15 The Assembly: Ray Martin. (PG, R)

11.00 ABC Late News.

11.15 Silent Witness. (Mal, R)

12.15 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

6am Children’s Programs. 10.10 Daniel Tiger’s. 11.00 Sesame Street. 11.25 Wiggle. 11.55 Thomas And Friends. 2.15pm Thomas. 2.50 Gardening Australia Junior. 3.05 Play School. 4.10 Andy’s Prehistoric Adv. 4.25 Super Monsters. 5.20 Mojo Swoptops. 5.45 Kangaroo Beach. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 TBA. 8.30 Hard Quiz Kids. 9.00 Robot Wars. 10.00 Merlin. 10.45 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Outside: Beyond The Lens. (R) 10.00 Confucius Was A Foodie. (Ma, R) 10.55 Great British Photography Challenge. (PGl, R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Ancient Egypt: Chronicles Of An Empire. (Ma, R) 3.00 Nula. 3.45 The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 Who Do You Think You Are? US. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 10.00 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 10. Bathurst 1000. Day 1. Practice session. 12.00 Motor Racing. Supercars Championship. Round 10. Bathurst 1000. Day 1. Practice session and support races. 5.00 The Chase Australia. Hosted by Larry Emdur. 6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 The

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Amazing Railway Adventures With Nick Knowles. (R)

8.25 Lost Temples Of Cambodia. (PG, R) Pauline Carroll learns about Jayavarman VII.

9.25 Lost Treasures Of Egypt: Secrets Of The Royal Mummies. (PGa)

10.15 SBS World News Late.

10.45 Catch Me A Killer. (MA15+av)

11.45 Rogue Heroes. (MA15+v, R)

2.00 Charles I: To Kill A King. (PG, R)

3.05 Welcome To My Farm. (PG, R)

4.05 The Wheelhouse. (Mals, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. A look around a luxury home on the Gold Coast.

8.30 MOVIE: Mrs. Harris Goes To Paris. (2022, PGl) An ordinary woman’s dream of owning a Christian Dior gown leads her on a Parisian adventure. Lesley Manville, Isabelle Huppert, Lambert Wilson.

11.00 Motorway Patrol. (PGal, R) A kitten needs rescuing.

11.30 GetOn Extra.

12.00 Healthy, Wealthy & Wise. (PGl, R)

1.00 Riviera. (MA15+adlsv, R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

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

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 David Attenborough’s Asia: Beneath The Waves. (Premiere, PG) Presented by Sir David Attenborough.

8.40 MOVIE: Elvis. (2022, Mal, R) The life of Elvis Presley, from his childhood to becoming a rock and movie star in the 1950s. Austin Butler, Tom Hanks.

11.40 Next Stop. A look at holiday destinations.

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

1.00 Great Australian Detour. (R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)

6.00 10 News+. 7.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer.

7.30 The Dog House. (PGa) A terri ed cockapoo arrives in a bad state.

8.30 The Brighter Side. (Final) The team explores fresh paths to home ownership and shares tips to stay safe from scams. Adam Liaw cooks a curry. 9.00 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Celebrity panellists compete to see who can remember the most about events of the week. 10.00 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 10.25 10 News+. (R) 11.25 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 6am Morning Programs. 1.25pm The Bee Whisperer. 2.25 Everyone Else Burns. 3.00 WorldWatch. 5.00 If You Are The One. 6.05 Jeopardy! 7.00 Soccer. Australian Championship. Round 1. South Melbourne FC v Sydney Olympic FC. 9.00 Jeopardy! 9.50 Sex: A Bonkers History. 10.45 Homeland. 12.35am The Big Sex Talk. 1.35 Letterkenny. 3.05 Planet Sex With Cara Delevingne. 3.55 NHK

DVine Living. 1.30 Weekender. 2.00 House Of Wellness. 3.00 The Great Australian Doorstep. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Animal Rescue. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt.

9GO! (83) 6am Mosley. Continued. (2019, PG) 6.50 All At Sea. (2010, PG) 8.30 Murder Party. (2022, PG, French) 10.25 Haute Couture. (2021, M, French) 12.20pm Benediction. (2021, M) 2.55 The Straight Story. (1999, PG) 5.00 Selkie. (2000, PG) 6.40 What We Did On Our Holiday. (2014, PG) 8.30 The Assassination Of Jesse James. (2007, MA15+) 11.25 Lions For Lambs. (2007, M) 1.05am The Thicket. (2024, M) 3.00 Master Gardener. (2022, M) 5.00 The Movie Show. 5.30 Selkie. (2000, PG)

The Dog House. 2.30 JAG. 4.30 The Living Room. 5.30 JAG. 7.30 NCIS. 10.20 The Real CSI: Miami. 11.15 A Million Little Things. 12.15am Home Shopping. 6am Danger Man. 7.00

6am Children’s Programs. 8.00

Hot Wheels. 9.00 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family. 10.00 Bewitched. 10.30 Jeannie. 11.00 The West Wing. 12.10pm MOVIE: A Royal Recipe For Love. (2023) 2.00 Golden Girls. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 Jeannie. 6.00 Golden Girls. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 MOVIE: Night At The Museum: Secret Of The Tomb. (2014, PG) 9.30 MOVIE: Shallow Hal. (2001, M) 11.45 Seinfeld. 12.15am Ghost Hunters. 1.15

TARGET TIME

A E H

T B R

E T A

Today’s target: 12 words average 18 words good 24+ 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

STARS & PUZZLES

ASTROLOGY with Joanne Madeline

ARIES (Mar 21 - Apr 19)

There’s a Super Full Moon in fiery Aries on Tuesday, so do your best to get the ratio right between personal needs and relationship responsibilities. And then Saturday’s Venus/Saturn opposition could stir up a frustrating old partnership problem. So, resist the urge for hot-headed arguing and feisty foot stamping, which could lead to a headache or migraine. With the Sun visiting Libra, the buzzwords for the week are tranquillity, cooperation and balance.

TAURUS (Apr 20 - May 20)

Expect a rather intense week as the fiery Full Moon stirs vivid dreams, hidden compulsions or submerged secrets. You could also become obsessed about someone (or something) from your complicated past. If you’re a bright Bull, you’ll learn from your mistakes, let go and move on. Wednesday’s fabulous Venus/Jupiter link favours love, creativity and local community connections as you socialise with family members and/or close friends.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 20)

This week the fiery Super Full Moon focuses on friendships. How to nurture them, keep them … and let them go, if you have outgrown each other. You’ll find mutual interests are essential to long-term platonic relationships. Mercury (your patron planet) squares Pluto mid-week, so avoid being scatterbrained, superficial and slapdash. You’ll find the more mentally disciplined you are, and the more you focus on a problem, the more solutions you’ll come up with.

CANCER (June 21 - July 22)

Jupiter’s jumping through your sign, and there’s a Super Full Moon! Time to connect with colleagues and clients at work, plus family and friends from within your local community, as you talk, text, tweet, publish, podcast or post up a storm. And don’t persist with outdated old ways of doing things. Be proactive about initiating exciting, adventurous and creative new strategies. But things could become intense with a child, teenager, friend or lover mid-week.

WORD

LEO (July 23 - Aug 22)

Many Lions are feeling restless. This week’s fiery Super Full Moon activates your aspirations and adventure zones, so you’ll feel like pursuing a dream or going on an exciting trip. But Saturn cautions you to be disciplined with money. A lavish impulse buy (or expensive holiday) now could lead to financial worries later. With Mercury and Mars both visiting your domestic zone, expect a busy time at home with plenty of people coming and going.

VIRGO (Aug 23 - Sep 22)

Tuesday’s fiery Super Full Moon shines a bright spotlight on trust issues and long-forgotten secrets. And carefully laid plans may veer off in unexpected directions – which could be wonderful or stressful, depending on the circumstances. Whatever happens, drop the perfectly-planned schedule, and go with the flow. When it comes to money matters, joint finances, taxes or trust issues, avoid being uncharacteristically rash. Slow down and take a second look.

LIBRA (Sep 23 - Oct 22)

Jupiter (planet of positivity and good luck) forms a fabulous aspect to Venus (your power planet), so it’s a wonderful week to make a wish, dream a dream, and keep your fingers crossed for a fabulous outcome! It’s also time to focus on a problem and think things through carefully. Your motto for the moment is from singer/songwriter PJ Harvey (who turns 56 on Thursday): “I’m a Libra. That means that I can make a decision, but only after much thought.”

SCORPIO (Oct 23 - Nov 21)

Tuesday’s Super Full Moon fires up your wellbeing zone, so it’s a good week to exercise, hit the gym, play sport, participate in a Fun Run or enjoy bushwalking. But Pluto squares Mercury, which could increase your intense moods and obsessive attention to details, especially involving a personal project or a domestic matter. Venus and Jupiter encourage you to be more philosophical about life as you find the time to relax and wind down with close friends.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 - Dec 21)

There’s a super lucky aspect this week as Jupiter (your power planet) trines Venus (planet of love, beauty, pleasure, harmony and the arts). Which boosts your Sagittarian charisma and is particularly good for work involving writing, teaching, performing, publishing, public relations and all sorts of creative projects. Throw in a fiery Super Full Moon on Tuesday and you’re set for an action-packed, stimulating week! If you want to last the distance, pace yourself.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 - Jan 19)

The Sun is transiting through your career zone, which boosts your capacity for hard work and your ability to lead others. But don’t do so at the expense of your home and family life. Tuesday’s Super Full Moon highlights the importance of getting the balance right between professional success and domestic harmony. Be inspired by fellow Capricorn, writer A. A. Milne: “You’re braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.”

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 - Feb 18)

The fiery Super Full Moon ignites your sociable, spontaneous and adventurous Aquarius side, as you mix with locals and explore your neighbourhood. But slow down (and calm down), otherwise you might put your foot in your mouth and come a cropper! With the Sun in Libra, try to find more balance in your relationships and more equilibrium within. Your motto is from birthday great Desmond Tutu: “We are made for friendliness. We are made for togetherness.”

PISCES (Feb 19 - Mar 20)

Tuesday’s fiery Super Full Moon activates your money zones, as you start to see your current financial situation in a revealing new light. And –for some financially challenged Fish – money matters could come to a head. Maybe it’s time to curb spending, boost savings and/or redesign your dreams? Are you unhappily single? Love and travel are linked, so you could meet your soulmate while on holiday or they could work in the tourism industry.

Save the date for Coffs Harbour’s house of fun

Jef Gibbs

Cofs Harbour is set to come alive with colour, creativity and family fun when Yarrila Place hosts the Spring Family Fun Day on Saturday, 11 October

Running from 10am to 1pm, the free event promises three hours of hands-on entertainment perfect for children of all ages and young families.

Mayor Nikki Williams said the program will be the ideal way to wrap up the

school holidays. “There’s always so much to do in Cofs Harbour but this special event will well and truly be a boredombuster at the end of the school holidays,” she said.

What’s on ofer

Activities will be spread

across Yarrila Place and spill into the CBD, with something for everyone to enjoy:

• Yarrila Arts and Museum (YAM): View the STILL: National Still Life Award 2025 exhibition, follow the children’s trail, and design your own spring suncatcher to take home.

• Harry Bailey Memorial Library: Take on a STEAM challenge in the new Citizen Science corner, or relax in the Story Space with a digital

Bodies Hold Histories

Dance Project Unites

Western Sydney and Northern Rivers Artists on Bundjalung Country

A powerful new dancebased project exploring how the human body carries memory, history and culture will soon take centre stage on Bundjalung Country.

Bodies Hold Histories, a cross-regional collaboration between PYT Fairfeld and Arts Northern Rivers, is set to unfold at Pottsville later this month—bringing together artists from Western Sydney and the Northern Rivers in a weeklong creative residency and community celebration. The project delves into how lived experiences are stored and expressed through movement, connecting physical storytelling with personal, cultural and ancestral memory. Developed by an ensemble of intercultural and intergenerational artists, Bodies Hold Histories aims to uncover the shared and difering ways that communities across regions and generations carry their

histories within.

A journey across Country and community

The project began with a “landing trip” earlier this month, where co-creator and performer Neda Taha travelled to the Northern Rivers to meet with local organisations such as Tweed Regional Museum, NORPA, and Arts

Northern Rivers

The two-day visit helped lay the groundwork for the upcoming residency, deepening the dialogue between artists, community and Country.

“I felt incredibly privileged to connect with the Northern Rivers arts community in such an intimate way—away from the fast pace of the city,” Taha said. “It’s inspiring to see how regional institutions preserve lived experience through storytelling, archives and oral history. This exchange ofers new perspectives on how we hold our shared humanity in our bodies.”

Residency and community events in

animation or flm created in the library’s studio.

• Cofs City Centre: Explore the Street Art Trail using the Cofs Coast Explorer App. The self-guided walk features 15 curated artworks and connects to nearby exhibitions at Saltwater Freshwater Arts Alliance and The Laneway Gallery Museum and Gallery Service Leader Carrie Kibbler encouraged families to make the most of the packed program.

Pottsville

From 13–17 October, the creative team will be based at the Pottsville Environmental Centre, beginning with a First Nations Welcome and Smoking Ceremony led by Bundjalung Elder Uncle Mark Cora Throughout the week, artists will develop choreography, sound and design elements that weave together dance, phenomenology and even strands of scientifc inquiry. Two free community events will open the process to the public.

• On Tuesday 14 October (4:30–6:30pm), the Local Artist Gathering will bring together regional and Western Sydney artists for an evening of creative exchange, short performances and shared food.

• On Friday 17 October (4:00–6:00pm), the ensemble will present a Community Sharing, ofering audiences a glimpse into the work-inprogress and the stories

“Be sure to pick up your activity planner when you arrive at the welcome station in the atrium area at Yarrila Place. Take part in every activity and you’ll go into the draw to win a prize,” she said.

Extra atractions

Alongside exhibitions and workshops, the day will also include:

• DJ Salty spinning tracks and taking requests

• Free bells for bikes

• Games and giveaways

• Student animation

being shaped through movement.

Both events are free, with RSVP via Humanitix, and will be held at the Pottsville Environmental Centre on Centennial Drive.

Diverse voices and collaboration

Bodies Hold Histories features a richly diverse team, including Yaegl/ Bundjalung musician

Mitch King, designer Chelsea Jewell, mentor and dramaturg Geraldine Haydee Balcazar Cabrera, and Elder Aunty Rhonda Dixon-Grovenor (Darug/ Gadigal/Bidigal/Yuin)

Performers Sarah Kalule, Hasiba Ebrahimi and Neda Taha join creative producer Gabriela Green Olea and dramaturg of care Chantel Jurcevic

showcase

• Peach & Wolf café open for refreshments

All materials are provided, no bookings are required, and children must be accompanied by an adult. The Spring Family Fun Day is designed as a true community celebration — bringing together art, science, music and play in one fun-flled program.

When: Saturday, 11 October, 10am–1pm

Where: Yarrila Place, 27 Gordon Street, Cofs Harbour

Cabrera in shaping the multidisciplinary work.

The project is presented by PYT Fairfeld, Western Sydney’s leading youthdriven performance company, in partnership with Arts Northern Rivers, the peak body supporting arts and culture across the region.

Supported by creative partners

Bodies Hold Histories is supported by Creative Australia and Create NSW, with additional backing from Western Sydney University’s MARCS Institute, Karul Projects, Readymade Works, Tweed Shire Council, and Fairfeld City Council

Byron Artist Jan Rae Returns to Byron Community Centre with New Exhibition

Jef Gibbs

Celebrated local artist Jan Rae, one of the creators behind the iconic 1984 Byron Community Centre mural, has returned to the very place where her artistic journey began. Her new exhibition, Byron Hinterland Paintings, is now open at the Byron Spaces Gallery until 15 December 2025, ofering free entry to the public.

Rae’s latest collection departs from her earlier socially focused works, turning instead toward the natural beauty that surrounds Byron Bay. Her new canvases celebrate the region’s distinctive landscape — expansive skies, rolling hills, and distant ocean horizons — all painted with her signature luminosity and reverence for place.

“This exhibition is all about the Byron hinterland, the beautiful environment

Jan Rae – Byron Hinterland Paintings

that we live in,” Rae said.

“Most of these works were created over the past year. They’re about sky, land and the beauty of our environment. I hope people who live here will be able to relate to them.”

For Rae, this exhibition is also a heartfelt homecoming. “It feels like a full circle,” she shared. “Not only did I work on the mural in the 1980s, but I’ve also taught tango lessons in the same room where my paintings now hang. Returning here with this exhibition feels special — like a second home.”

The exhibition forms part

of the Byron Community Centre’s 130 Years of Community Spirit celebrations, honouring the region’s enduring creative and social heritage that dates back to the Byron Bay School of Arts in 1895. Kate Love, Communications Manager for the Byron Community Centre, said welcoming Rae back marks an important moment in the Centre’s creative story. “Jan’s return connects our present community with its artistic roots,” Love said. “Her works capture the beauty of the Byron landscape and the essence of our shared home.”

Byron Hinterland Paintings is open weekdays from 10am to 4pm at the Byron Community Centre’s Byron Spaces Gallery, with all artworks available for purchase directly from the artist.

Setting New Architectural Standards In Tweed Heads

Jef Gibbs

An iconic new development is set to redefne the architectural landscape of Tweed Heads, with River Terrace poised to become the benchmark for design excellence in the city’s Southern Boat Harbour Precinct.

Designed by leading architectural practice

TURNER for the Briscoe Hotel Group, River Terrace will be the frst project constructed within the revitalised precinct. The 72-apartment mixed-use building will establish the tone for the area, balancing urban sophistication with the coastal lifestyle that defnes the border city.

A Gateway Statement

Given its prime location on the banks of the Tweed River and its role as a gateway to the city centre, River Terrace had to meet strict design standards. These criteria—set out in the Design Excellence Guideline by Tweed Shire Council—were overseen by the Government Architect NSW and an independent panel.

“The project’s prominent location meant it had to exceed expectations,” explained TURNER Associate Director Claire Malin.

“We introduced a new process with council and the Government Architect to work through design issues, which has now set fresh benchmarks for development in Tweed Heads.”

Design for Lifestyle and Environment

Refecting the Northern Rivers’ relaxed lifestyle, River Terrace’s design prioritises connection to the outdoors, wellbeing and sustainability. The building has been crafted to ensure every apartment enjoys 100% natural crossventilation, with layouts only one unit deep. This approach enhances both environmental performance and the slender, sculptural form of the building. Each residence will feature individual entry points, storage for surfboards and bicycles, and harbour or

hinterland views

“This is about giving residents an iconic landmark building that also works for everyday living,” Malin added.

Integrating with Place and Culture

The project will also shape the wider Southern Boat Harbour Precinct through waterside walkways, landscaped public spaces, and ground-level retail and dining venues that activate the riverfront.

TURNER’s collaboration with the Aboriginal Land Council infuenced the design at a deeper level.

Associate Design Strategist Martin Petru explained:

“Working with the Aboriginal Land Council gave us real insights into the cultural and ecological signifcance of the site. We worked with our landscape designers to incorporate seasonal planting that attracts and sustains birdlife, ensuring the building becomes part of the local ecosystem.”

Shaping Light and Form Responding to Tweed

Heads’ subtropical climate, River Terrace employs perforated metal panels to soften the western sun while the eastern aspect is shaped to maximise views across the harbour. Wide, shaded balconies extend living areas outdoors, creating a layered play of light and shadow.

“Residents will feel immersed in nature, connected to both the landscape and the spectacular water views, while protected from the harsh sun,” Petru said.

Setting the Standard

With construction of River Terrace marking the frst step in the transformation of the Southern Boat Harbour,

TURNER’s design is already being seen as a new standard for architectural excellence in the region.

As the city grows, River Terrace will stand as a landmark project—one that captures the lifestyle and spirit of Tweed Heads while setting a clear direction for future development.

Rate Cut Expectations Pushed Back to 2026

Australian borrowers hoping for interest rate relief will have to wait longer, with economists now predicting the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) will hold of on cuts until 2026.

Earlier forecasts had pointed to late 2025 as the likely timeframe for the frst reduction, but a hotter-than-expected infation reading for August has shifted expectations. The Consumer Price Index showed persistent price pressures, particularly in housing, electricity and

essential goods, prompting analysts to reconsider their outlook.

NAB is among the major banks that have adjusted their forecasts, dropping earlier assumptions of cuts next year. Current predictions suggest the frst opportunity for easing could be in February or May 2026, depending on the pace of infation cooling.

Core infation, especially the trimmed mean measure closely watched by the RBA, remains stubbornly high. Economists warn that monetary policy will need to stay restrictive until these underlying pressures ease. Rising electricity prices, which reversed the temporary beneft of government subsidies, have also intensifed upward pressure on headline

infation.

For homeowners and prospective buyers, the shift means higher repayments are likely to persist well into 2026. Mortgage experts say borrowers should not wait on the central bank for relief, but instead explore refnancing or negotiating with lenders to secure better deals in the meantime.

The RBA’s decision-

making will continue to hinge on the strength of infation data and labour market conditions. While rate cuts are still on the horizon, the timing has now been pushed back, leaving households and businesses to adjust to an extended period of elevated borrowing costs.

Relief, once expected in 2025, may now be more than a year away.

Celebrations and Red Tape Reform at the Heart of Small Business Month

October is Small Business Month, a chance to celebrate the 870,000 small businesses that make up 97 per cent of all NSW businesses and employ 1.7 million people – about 40 per cent of the state’s workforce.

This year, the focus is not only on celebration but also on action.

Small business owners consistently say red tape is one of the biggest barriers to growth, limiting productivity and innovation. In response, the Minns Labor Government, through the NSW Small Business Commission, has launched a new red tape initiative. Small business owners and representative groups are being asked to share their experiences with compliance burdens through a short survey or interview. Insights will help identify pain points and shape practical reforms to make it easier to do business in NSW. The survey will run for

the duration of Small Business Month, from 1–31 October.

Beyond addressing red tape, the monthlong program features a calendar of workshops, webinars, and networking sessions across NSW, both online and in person.

Final Budget Outcome masks structural tax problems

Jef Gibbs

Australia’s fscal position has improved compared to earlier forecasts, but underlying weaknesses in the nation’s tax system remain, according to CPA Australia.

The Final Budget Outcome for 2024–25 shows the underlying cash defcit came in at $10 billion — less than half the $29.7 billion forecast in the 2025 PreElection Economic and

Fiscal Outlook. Higherthan-expected income tax receipts, which were $13 billion above projections, and government payments

$4.9 billion lower than forecast, both contributed to the stronger result.

Despite this improvement, CPA

Australia has warned the government not to lose sight of long-term structural challenges.

Gavan Ord, CPA

Australia’s Business and Investment Lead, said the

budget fgures highlight an over-reliance on personal and corporate income taxes.

“The proportion of Australians paying income taxes is declining as the population ages – they will shoulder an increasingly heavy burden unless the tax base changes,” Mr Ord said.

CPA Australia cautions that without reform, defcits are expected to persist throughout the

Topics range from social media and consumer behaviour to cyber security, business growth, workplace health and safety, and mental health. October also marks Indigenous Business Month, with the theme Strength Through Collaboration. While Aboriginal people make up three per cent of NSW’s population, they represent just one per cent of small business owners. This month aims to highlight Indigenous entrepreneurship and inspire the next generation. The government says it is committed to ensuring a thriving small business sector. Recent initiatives include vibrancy reforms

boosting the night-time economy, procurement changes making it easier for small and medium enterprises to supply to government, and a new Mutual Recognition Scheme to help mobile businesses such as food trucks and trainers operate across council boundaries.

Events highlighting international trade opportunities are also scheduled in Western Sydney, Wollongong, the Northern Rivers and Wagga Wagga.

Minister for Small Business Janelle Safn said small businesses are “the beating heart of the state’s economy” and bring cultural and social benefts that

extend beyond fnancial contributions.

“We have delivered a lot of reform but it’s clear there is more to do, especially around compliance and high costs,” she said.

Acting NSW Small Business Commissioner Catherine Ellis encouraged business owners to speak up.

“By sharing your experience with us you will help inform our work to reduce red tape and make it easier for small businesses to operate in NSW,” she said.

For more information, surveys and event registrations, visit nsw. gov.au/nsw-smallbusiness-month.

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next decade, undermining the nation’s fscal resilience.

“Although the results exceeded projections, Australia continues to face substantial budgetary pressures.

Strengthening our fscal position remains an urgent priority,” Mr Ord said.

The organisation has urged the Albanese government to stay focused on reducing expenditure, improving productivity and removing unnecessary regulation to support long-term competitiveness.

“Addressing these issues will help ensure Australia remains a destination for global capital and investment, while also shielding the economy and government fnances from potential geopolitical shockwaves,” Mr Ord said.

CPA Australia is calling for a holistic review of the tax system to broaden the base and reduce reliance on a shrinking pool of taxpayers.

“Today’s fgures again demonstrate the urgent need for tax reform to deliver for Australia’s future,” Mr Ord said.

The Ultimate Travel Guide India

India is a land where timeless traditions meet vibrant modernity. From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the sun-kissed beaches of Goa, the country unfolds like a living storybook. Walking through bustling bazaars, hearing temple bells mix with city horns, or watching the sun set over the Ganges feels like stepping into a painting alive with colour. Every corner ofers a diferent rhythm — one moment you’re in a Mughal palace, the next you’re sipping chai in a village courtyard. India’s diversity ensures every journey is layered with history, spirituality, and unforgettable human warmth.

Top 5 Places to Visit

•Taj Mahal, Agra – A global icon of love and Mughal architecture, best viewed at sunrise.

•Jaipur, Rajasthan –Known as the Pink City, it dazzles with forts, palaces, and vibrant markets.

•Kerala Backwaters

– Serene canals lined with coconut palms, best explored on a traditional houseboat.

•Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh – One of the world’s oldest cities, ofering spiritual experiences along the Ganges.

•Goa – A blend of Portuguese heritage, golden beaches, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle.

5 Best Deals and How to Save Money

•Railway Passes – Indian Railways ofers economical long-distance travel, cheaper if booked in advance.

•Street Food – Authentic and inexpensive, from masala dosa to samosas, costing under $2 a meal.

•E-rickshaws and Metro Cards – Avoid overpriced taxis by using prepaid local transport.

•Budget Airlines –Carriers like IndiGo and SpiceJet often sell tickets at a fraction of the cost if booked early.

•Online Booking Apps

– Hotels and experiences are often 20–30% cheaper through Indian platforms like MakeMyTrip or OYO.

5 Travel Tips

•Dress Modestly –Respect local customs, especially in temples and rural areas.

•Stay Hydrated Safely –Stick to bottled or fltered water.

•Cultural Sensitivity

– A simple namaste goes a long way when greeting locals.

•Cash and Digital Mix –UPI apps like Paytm work well, but rural areas may only accept cash.

•Plan for Delays –Trains, buses, and fights may run late — fexibility is essential.

Best Ways to Get Around

India’s vastness calls for mixed transport. Domestic fights are afordable and time-saving. Trains ofer a cultural experience, from budget sleeper class to luxury services like Palace on Wheels. In cities, metros (Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai) are efcient, while rickshaws and taxis suit short distances. For fexible travel, app-based rides like Uber and Ola are widely available.

Conclusion

India is not just a destination; it is an awakening of the senses. Its landscapes, history, food, and spirituality ensure no two journeys are ever the same. Whether you travel luxuriously or on a shoestring, India leaves every visitor with memories stitched in colour, sound, and soul.

For Australians, the government’s \Smartraveller website provides advisories and warnings for over 175 destinations, with levels indicating risks like “Reconsider your need to travel” (Level 3) or “Do not travel” (Level 4)

Accommodation Options

• The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra («««««) –World-class luxury with direct Taj Mahal views.

• Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur («««««) – A foating marble palace ofering regal experiences.

• Lemon Tree Hotels («««–««««) – Reliable mid-range comfort across major cities.

• Zostel Hostels (««–«««) – Trendy budget hostels popular with backpackers.

• Guesthouses & Homestays (««) – Afordable and personal, often under $15 a night.

Currency & Budget Considerations

India’s currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). Budget travellers can get by on $25–40 per day, covering hostels, meals, and public transport. Mid-range travellers should plan $60–120 per day, while luxury seekers may spend upwards of $250 daily, especially in heritage hotels and fve-star resorts.

2026 Generation Toyota HiLux Revealed

Jef Gibbs

The Toyota HiLux, long Australia’s top-selling vehicle, has taken a major step toward its next chapter. Newly released Australian Government approval documents confrm that Toyota’s next-generation HiLux is edging closer to showrooms, with key details on engines and variants now locked in.

The documents, published under the Federal Government’s Road Vehicle Certifcation System, show Toyota has secured approval for the HiLux replacement in Australia. While Toyota has yet to ofcially unveil the model, the flings efectively confrm what will power the ute that has been the country’s favourite workhorse for years. Diesel and Hybrid Options Confrmed As expected, the next HiLux will continue with diesel power at its core. Leading the line-up will be a revised version of Toyota’s well-known

2.8-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine. According to the certifcation, this motor will be ofered both in standard diesel form and in a new 48-volt mild-hybrid confguration.

The hybrid system, already rolled out in the current HiLux range overseas, pairs the diesel with a compact electric motor and small battery pack. This combination helps reduce fuel use and emissions, while also delivering smoother stop-start operation and improved low-speed efciency—valuable for both urban trades and longhaul country drivers.

The documents also list multiple power outputs depending on variant, suggesting Toyota will tailor the diesel and hybrid mix to suit both feet and private buyers.

A Broader Range in the Pipeline

Alongside the 2.8-litre options, Toyota has also registered a 2.4-litre turbodiesel, which is expected to serve as the entry-level

Isuzu UTE Australia is boosting its popular D-MAX ute and MU-X SUV line-up with the introduction of a new 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine, arriving in showrooms from October 1, 2025. The upgrade replaces the outgoing 1.9-litre unit and delivers a healthy lift in power, torque, and towing capability.

The four-cylinder EURO5 RZ4F-TC motor produces 120kW and 400Nm, up from the 1.9-litre’s 110kW and 350Nm. Importantly, torque delivery has been refned, with 255Nm available from as low as 1,000rpm, ensuring stronger pull from takeof. Peak torque now arrives between 1,600

engine for the new line-up. While smaller, the 2.4-litre has proven itself in overseas markets and will likely target budget-conscious operators who value fuel economy.

No petrol or full-hybrid alternatives have been detailed at this stage. However, industry insiders believe Toyota will eventually add a full hybrid or even plug-in hybrid version later in the model’s life to meet tightening emissions standards and customer demand.

The HiLux Legacy For decades, the HiLux has been more than just a vehicle in Australia. It has built a reputation for toughness and reliability on worksites, farms, and mine sites across the country. It has also become a lifestyle choice, with dual-

and 2,400rpm, providing fexibility for both urban driving and heavy-duty tasks. Fuel consumption is rated from 6.3L/100km, keeping running costs competitive.

Isuzu has paired the new engine exclusively with an eight-speed automatic transmission, signalling the end of manual gearbox options across the D-MAX and MU-X ranges. For

cab variants dominating suburban driveways and caravan parks.

The HiLux has battled fercely with Ford’s Ranger for sales supremacy in recent years, with the Ranger often edging ahead on the back of strong V6 diesel and Raptor performance models.

Toyota’s response with the new HiLux will be closely watched by both buyers and competitors.

New Platform, New Potential

While the government documents do not reveal design images, they confrm that the next HiLux sits on a new platform. Industry expectations are that it will share much with the recently unveiled Toyota Tacoma in North America, which sports a tougher stance, modern interiors,

the ute, the 2.2L will be available in SX and X-Rider grades, while MU-X buyers can choose LS-M, LS-U, and LS-T trims.

A key highlight of this update is that every D-MAX and MU-X variant now boasts 3.5-tonne braked towing capacity. Previously, only the larger 3.0-litre four-cylinder (140kW/450Nm) ofered this maximum fgure. By aligning the smaller engine option with the established benchmark, Isuzu has

and advanced safety technology.

If that styling and equipment carry across, Australian buyers can expect a more refned HiLux that still delivers on durability. The addition of modern driver aids, improved connectivity, and Toyota’s latest infotainment suite will likely be part of the package.

When Will It Arrive?

With approval secured, Toyota is now free to launch the HiLux locally once production and shipping schedules align. Industry speculation points to a late-2025 or early-2026 showroom debut. That would position Toyota to capture attention as competitors like the Ranger and Isuzu D-MAX update their own line-ups.

Toyota Australia has not

widened the appeal for feets, tradies, and families needing towing muscle.

Safety remains a strong point, with all 2.2L-equipped models retaining a fve-star ANCAP rating. Styling changes are minimal but include a fresh colour option—Wolfram Grey Metallic replaces Granite Grey on X-Rider and higher trims. This brings the D-MAX palette to nine shades and the MU-X to eight.

Isuzu UTE Australia

provided ofcial comment on the flings but has previously hinted at a “big year ahead” for HiLux. A Workhorse Evolving For loyal HiLux buyers, the news confrms that Toyota is not straying from its roots. Diesel remains central, but hybrid technology shows Toyota is preparing for the future. Whether hauling gear, towing loads, or tackling of-road tracks, the next-generation HiLux is shaping up to combine the toughness that built its name with technology to meet new demands. In the ute market where brand loyalty runs deep, the new HiLux is certain to spark keen interest. One thing is clear: Australia’s love afair with the HiLux is far from over—it’s just entering its next chapter.

managing director Junta Matsui said the update refects customer feedback. “Our focus has always been on value, durability, and performance. The 2.2-litre turbo-diesel ensures our vehicles remain ft for Australian conditions,” he said.

With the D-MAX ranking as Australia’s fourth bestselling vehicle in 2024 and the MU-X continuing to draw strong demand, this powertrain update aims to keep Isuzu frmly in the mix against rivals such as the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger.

Celebrating International Day of Older Persons

Jef Gibbs

October 1 marked International Day of Older Persons, a time to recognise the resilience, wisdom and ongoing contributions of older Australians to our families, communities, and the nation.

Relationships Australia

NSW CEO, Elisabeth Shaw, said older people bring a wealth of life experience and skills that younger generations continue to beneft from.

“Older people play an immeasurable role in

society which should be celebrated,” Ms Shaw said. “While retirement is often seen as a time to slow down, the reality is very diferent. Many older Australians remain active in the workforce, volunteer, travel, care for grandchildren, and take on new hobbies and relationships. Their contribution enriches our

families and communities, and when we underestimate or overlook older Australians, it is to the detriment of us all.”

Alongside celebrating their achievements, the day also shines a light on challenges faced by many older people. Alarmingly, research shows that around 15 per cent of Australians aged 65 and over

experience some form of abuse—whether physical, psychological or fnancial. “This problem doesn’t discriminate by postcode or ethnicity,” Ms Shaw said.

Earlier this year, Relationships Australia NSW launched its landmark policy paper Ending the Abuse of Older People in NSW Developed in consultation with government, legal, health and community stakeholders, the paper sets out an agenda to 2030. It calls for stronger services, targeted law

reform, investment in the workforce, and a coordinated national plan to end elder abuse within a generation.

“With demographic trends such as rising dementia rates, more intergenerational living, and ongoing service shortages in regional areas, the risks will only grow unless there is sustained investment,” Ms Shaw said.

Through programs such as Let’s Talk, Relationships

Australia NSW provides mediation, counselling, and practical assistance to

support older people and families, aiming to prevent abuse before it escalates. However, Ms Shaw emphasised that lasting change requires systemic action.

“There are no simple solutions, but there are policies and services that can make a diference. Early intervention is key,” she said.

“Vulnerability should never be exploited. We all share the responsibility to protect and respect our ageing loved ones. They deserve nothing less.”

Community in motion: putting One Foot Forward for better mental health

Jef Gibbs

Black Dog Institute is calling on people around the nation to put One Foot Forward this October and take part in a national movement for mental health.

Held during Mental Health Month, this virtual challenge invites people to walk, run, or roll throughout the month to raise funds and support the 1 in 5 Australians who experience a mental illness every year.

Since its launch in 2020, One Foot Forward has inspired more than 170,000 people to get moving, raising over $34 million for Black Dog Institute’s critical mental health research, helping put ground-breaking mental health treatments, education, and digital services into the hands of people who need them most.

Tamara Aiken, One Foot Forward Campaign Manager at Black Dog Institute, says the campaign is a reminder of what community action can achieve.

“One Foot Forward is a practical way for people to show support and take action on an issue that afects millions of Australians,” says Tamara.

“Every person who takes part is helping improve access to support and reduce the stigma that still surrounds mental illness.”

For Rachel, who lost

her close friend Daniel to suicide, the challenge ofered a way to channel her grief into something meaningful.

“When I found out about One Foot Forward, it gave me a way to keep honouring Daniel's life and also help other people who might be battling their own mental health issues,”

Rachel says.

“It gave me a way to focus all of that energy that I didn't know how to use, and turn it into something really positive and beautiful.”

“One Foot Forward is so much about the strength of the community and feeling support from everyone who’s participating and

the fundraising team. I love just being a part of something that's really positive and feels like I am a part of making a change in the world.”

Rachel has now completed the challenge multiple times, inspired by both the cause and the community that surrounds it.

For Cheyenne, who has experienced her own long journey with mental health and faced some of her darkest moments while navigating family, health, and personal challenges, One Foot Forward has been both a lifeline and a platform to give back.

Since 2020, Cheyenne has proudly raised $25,000 for

Black Dog Institute – an incredible $23,000 of that through One Foot Forward.

“The One Foot Forward community is a beautiful and encouraging network. We support each other, we cheer each other on, we speak about our personal journeys without judgement, and we share our achievements,” Cheyenne says.

“I love the support from my community, the joy I feel when I accomplish my targets and the fulflment of being a part of something that will change the lives of so many people.”

Meanwhile, Julia, who has been participating since 2021, is preparing to

walk an incredible 600km this October – including a 24-hour walk.

“I literally wait for October to come around every year. My mind and body thrive on it,” Julia says.

“By talking about mental health and reducing the stigma and silence, we also reduce its power to take over. We can let others know that it’s okay not to be okay, you aren’t the only one, and there are organisations you can go to for support and education.”

That’s why taking part in One Foot Forward matters. Every step helps fund ground-breaking research and practical support to improve mental health across Australia.

Registrations are now open! Join Tamara, Rachel, Cheyenne, Julia, and thousands of others in putting One Foot Forward this October and help create better mental health for all.

Funds raised through the challenge support Black Dog Institute’s work in suicide prevention, digital mental health tools, early intervention research, and community education programs. Suicide is one of the most pressing public health challenges of our time. Each year, too many lives are lost — and behind every number are families, friends, and communities forever changed.

WHATS ON THE MENU TONIGHT?

There are rissoles, and then there are rissoles. The boring kind sit on a plate looking like meat hockey pucks. But these babies? They’re light, zesty, and dripping in lemon-butter sauce like they’ve just come back from a European summer holiday. This dish is what happens when chicken mince realises it doesn’t have to be dull—it can be saucy, citrusy, and downright seductive. Even your nan will say, “That’s a bloody good rissole.” And she doesn’t hand out compliments lightly.

• Prep time: 25 minutes (10 if you cheat and get someone else to chop the parsley)

• Cook time: 25 minutes

• Serves: 4 (or 2 people who don’t believe in portion control)

• Temperature: Pan frying over medium heat (about 160–170°C)

Ingredients

• 500g chicken mince (the underrated hero of the fridge)

• 1 small brown onion, fnely chopped

• 1 garlic clove, crushed (smash it like your Monday blues)

• 1/2; cup breadcrumbs

• 1 egg, lightly beaten (it’s not an interrogation)

• 2 tbsp parsley, chopped

• Zest of 1 lemon (all the personality in a peel)

• 2 tbsp olive oil, for frying

• 40g butter

• Juice of 1 lemon (because zest alone isn’t enough drama)

• Salt and pepper, to taste Method

• Mix it up. Combine chicken mince, onion, garlic,

Warm Peach & Almond Dessert Cake

Some desserts are light and delicate, others are dense and serious. This cake? It’s both—like the friend who can throw down tequila shots on Saturday night but also runs a tidy herb garden. With juicy peaches and a nutty almond base, it’s the kind of pudding that makes you sigh happily and loosen your waistband “just a notch.”

Best part? It looks fancy enough for guests, but it’s basically just fruit and cake having a steamy get-together in your oven.

Ingredients

• 825g can peach slices in juice, drained (keep the juice if you’re thrifty—it makes a cheeky cocktail mixer)

• 125g butter, melted

• 2 eggs, lightly beaten

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 cup caster sugar

• 1 cup self-raising four

Butered Lemon Chicken Rissoles

breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, and lemon zest in a big bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Use clean hands and get squishy—it’s therapy you can eat.

• Shape your destiny. Roll mixture into 8 rissoles. Not too big, not too small—think golf ball with ambition.

• Sear the deal. Heat olive oil in a large non-stick frying pan over medium heat (160–170°C). Cook rissoles for 4–5 minutes each side until golden and cooked through. No pink surprises in the middle, thanks.

• Sauce seduction. In the same pan, melt butter until foamy. Add lemon juice, stir, and let it sizzle for a minute. Pour over rissoles like a rom-com fnale.

• Serve hot. Pair with mashed potato, salad, or just eat straight of the pan like a gremlin.

Final Word

These buttered lemon chicken rissoles are proof that midweek dinners don’t have to be tragic. They’re tangy, buttery, and just cocky enough to make beef rissoles jealous. Bonus: leftovers reheat beautifully—if they survive the night.

• 1/2; cup almond meal

• 1/2; cup milk

• Icing sugar, for dusting

• Cream or ice cream, to serve Method

• Heat oven to 180°C (160°C fan-forced). Grease and line a 20cm round cake tin.

• Arrange peach slices across the base like you’re playing

fruity Tetris.

• Mix butter, eggs, vanilla, sugar, four, almond meal, and milk until smooth. Pour over peaches.

• Bake 45–50 minutes, until golden and a skewer comes out clean (or mostly clean—gooey bits are welcome).

• Dust with icing sugar and serve warm with cream or ice cream.

This cake is soft, peachy, and just nutty enough to be interesting—basically dessert’s answer to the perfect date.

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

Lismore Saleyards – Market Report for Tuesday, 30 September 2025

OFF THE RAILS

By Glenn Weir

The Lismore Saleyards yarded 440 cattle this week, with a strong showing of heavy cows and feeder steers drawing competitive bidding, while weatherafected weaners showed more mixed results. Despite seasonal challenges, market prices remain relatively frm for quality lines.

Cows Hold Firm with Heavy Types in Demand

Heavy cows were the standout of the

NRLX PRIME CATTLE SALE – WEDNESDAY 1 OCTOBER 2025

Firm sale with strong competition across prime classes

NRLX’s prime cattle yarding produced a steady, confdence-building result, with averages holding frm and several categories pushing to robust highs.

Overall, the sale averaged 358.1c/kg across 342,600 kg transacted for a gross of $1,226,836

Cows underpin the market

Cows delivered the weight and value once again. They averaged 331.5c/kg to a

day, trading between $3.70 to $3.82 per kilo, with a premium line from Nashua topping at $3.82/kg, returning an impressive $2,509 per head. These results underscore the continued demand for well-conditioned cows.

Secondary cows fetched between $3.20 to $3.50/kg, while lighter, older cows ranged more widely from $1.95 to $2.90/ kg, refecting softer demand for leaner types.

Feeder Steers and Heifers Vary with Quality

Buyers showed mixed enthusiasm for feeder types, with steers peaking at $4.50/kg, returning up to $2,001. Other pens fetched $4.10 to $4.40/kg, with top

top of 390.0c/kg, turning over 144,690 kg for $479,614 — the largest share of the day’s total.

Steers lead restocker interest

Steers were keenly sought, averaging 416.9c/kg and topping 564.2c/kg, with total sales value of $321,558 across 77,130 kg. The depth of bidding at the heavier end helped hold the overall steer indicator frm.

Heifers hold; quality draws premiums

Quality heifers met ready demand, averaging 353.5c/kg and reaching a high of 446.2c/kg. Turnover for the category came in at $241,667 on 68,360 kg traded. Lines with fnish and structure consistently attracted the better money.

returns reaching $2,194, depending on age, weight and fnish. Feeder heifers followed a similar trend but were subject to more variability in buyer interest.

Weaner Market Refects Tough Winter Weaners this week were generally plainer in condition—a result of the wet winter hindering turnout. However, better quality steers still brought $5.00 to $5.56/kg, with Marion Crawford’s Angus line hitting $5.55/kg for $1,147, and Elton White’s Angus topping $5.40/ kg for $1,512

Secondary weaner steers sold in the $4.30 to $4.80/kg bracket, while the plainer types fell to between $3.30 and $3.80/kg

Bullocks steady at higher end of the grid

Prime bullocks sold to 430.2c/kg, averaging 426.9c/kg. Despite a smaller run (about 8,255 kg), the class still generated $35,244, refecting consistent processor competition for fnished weights.

Bulls fnd a level; vealers selective

Heavy bulls averaged 345.4c/kg,topping at 388.2c/kg, for $107,684 over 31,175 kg

. Light veal showed selectiveness: mixed vealers averaged 334.7c/kg to 350.0c/kg, while vealer bulls averaged 311.8c/kg and reached 420.0c/kg

Calves and breeders: small numbers, solid results Bobby calves sold to $125/head (avg

Selective Buying for Heifer Calves

Buyer competition was more cautious on heifer calves, particularly in the plainer lines. The top-end sold at $4.30/ kg, with the majority ranging between $3.50 and $4.20/kg. Heifers lacking quality and condition dropped to $2.20 to $3.20/kg

Upcoming Sales

• Breeder Sale: Saturday 11 October from 9:00am

• Meatworks & Weaner Sale: Tuesday 14 October from 7:30am

Producers are encouraged to book early as yard space flls fast. For further information or bookings, contact Ian Weir & Son Livestock.

$79.67/head), while the small penning of cows & calves made $1,860/head on average, topping $1,900

Take-home

• Prime cows anchored value; steers set the pace at the top end.

• Heifers were best on type, with fnish rewarded.

• Bullocks remained steady; bulls found equilibrium.

• Selective competition on the lighter veal ensured quality drew premiums. Overall, a frm prime sale that balanced processor demand with restocker confdence, closing on a strong whole-sale average of 358.1c/kg

Numbers remained steady in the cattle yarding this week, while sheep, lamb and pork entries were back. Poultry once again carried strong support, helped along by the school holiday crowd.

The cattle market held frm overall, with only light unfnished vealer types showing a softer trend. Most other categories remained stable with solid buyer competition. Sheep and lamb values fuctuated, with lighter mutton easing while lambs and heavier types held ground.

Cattle

• Bulls averaged 358.8c/kg, topping at 405.2c/kg, returning $1,540–$3,961.

• Cows averaged 334.6c/kg, reaching 410c/kg, to make $1,698–$2,844.

• Feeder heifers averaged 359.5c/ kg, topping 440c/kg, from $1,257–$1,843.

• Feeder steers averaged 435.7c/ kg, topping 495c/kg, from $1,668–$2,402.

• Heifers averaged 388.7c/kg, topping 437.2c/kg, making $1,845–$2,272.

• Steers averaged 427.8c/kg, topping 449.2c/kg, with returns of $2,518–

$3,377.

• Vealer heifers averaged 355.3c/kg, topping 400.2c/kg, from $722–$1,172.

• Vealer steers averaged 432.8c/kg, reaching 500c/kg, for $1,043–$1,487.

• Yearling heifers averaged 379.5c/kg, topping 450.2c/kg, returning $1,101–$1,790.

• Yearling steers averaged 450.4c/ kg, topping 520.2c/kg, from $1,152–$2,248.

The total cattle yarding averaged $1,519.87/head

Sheep & Lambs

Numbers were back with a mixedquality yarding. While good trade and export types were present, lighter lines lacking fnish were harder to place. Prices largely followed southern market trends.

• Lambs topped at $302, averaging $228.85 (up $15/head).

• Hoggets topped $256, averaging $205.08 (down $17/head).

• Ram lambs topped $250, averaging $212.52 (up $28/head).

• Wethers topped $230, averaging $185.76 (down $23/head).

• Ewes topped $236, averaging $145.28 (down $44/head).

• Rams topped $230, averaging $166.14 (down $28/head).

The total sheep and lamb yarding

averaged $201.25/head, down $11 on last week.

Pork

Pork numbers were limited, though prices held:

• Boars sold $152–$180.

• Gilts to $170.

• Porkers $192–$290.

• Light pork to $192.

• Stores $114–$256.

Poultry

School holidays bolstered poultry numbers and demand:

• Hens to $72

• Pullets to $22

• Roosters to $32

• Geese to $30

• Drakes to $38

• Ducks to $32

• Guinea fowl to $22

APL/McDougall & Sons Sheep & Lamb Report

Agents and vendors presented 1,008 head, drawn from New England, Maranoa, Wide Bay and local districts. The yarding showed mixed quality, with trade and export lambs alongside lighter feed-on types. The market was frm to cheaper across most categories.

• Lambs topped at $302, averaging $228.85 (up $15).

• Hoggets to $256, averaging $205.08 (down $17).

• Ram lambs to $250, averaging $212.52 (up $28).

• Wethers to $230, averaging $166.14 (down $28).

• Ewes to $236, averaging $145.28 (down $44).

• Rams to $230, averaging $166.14 (down $28).

The total yarding averaged $201.25/ head, down $11 on last week.

Notable sales included:

• Gooroo Grazing: Dorper lambs 52.7kg to GR Prime $302; 50kg to Tony’s Supa Meats $287; 60kg hoggets to Sandy Creek Hotel $256.

• Jack Henry: Dorper lambs 54.8kg to GR Prime $288; ewes to Fletchers International $236.

• Kim Nielsen: 2nd X lambs 52.9kg to GR Prime $269.

• Neville Baldock: Dorper x lambs 50kg to GR Prime $238; ram lambs 63.8kg to restockers $250.

• Reg Cooke: Dorper lambs 47kg to GR Prime $249; hoggets 47.8kg to McIntyre Meats $195.

• Tim & Mary Turvey: Dorper lambs 48.8kg to GR Prime $290; hoggets 48kg to Nutrien Landmark $231.

• Mizpah Grazing: XB lambs 46.6kg to GR Prime $270.

• Alan Aisthorpe: Polwarth wethers with ⅓ wool to McIntyre Meats $230.

Minns Labor Government supports Lismore and Murwillumbah Showgrounds

Murwillumbah Showground

Lismore Showground

Major work is underway at Lismore Showground to repair damage from the 2022 floods thanks to $4.75 million from the Minns Labor Government.

NSW Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper and I were joined by members of the North Coast National A&I Society when we announced the funding to restore the local icon to full community use.

This follows $1.43 million last year to repair and upgrade internal roads on the showground site.

Congratulations to Allan Brown, Belinda Grace and all the Murwillumbah Showground team on the major amenities upgrade.

The Minns Labor Government invested $390,094 in the amenities upgrade and is investing a further $337,259 to refurbish the showground’s main pavilion.

These improvements support the growth of the weekly markets and the annual show and help the Showground attract big events like this month’s ‘Bush 2 Beach’ Jamboree, which brought in more than 1,200 participants from Australia and overseas.

Farmers ‘Weather it Together’: A unified effort to embrace hope and ask for help during tough seasons

Ian Rogers

A new farmer-led campaign has been launched to encourage South Australian farmers to collectively take care of themselves and each other during challenging seasons.

Weather it Together is a campaign led by farmers – for farmers, acting as a friendly reminder about practical steps members of farming communities can take to maximise their wellbeing, regardless of the season.

Driven by Associate Professor Kate Gunn and the ifarmwell team at the University of South Australia, developed with farmers, backed by industry groups and funded by the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) South Australian Government’s $73 million Drought Support Package, the campaign encourages farmers to embrace four key behaviours: Keep Connected, Focus on

what you can control, Get Active and Ask for Help by speaking openly about challenges with family, friends and professionals.

“Farmers are used to facing challenges and solving problems – they’ve done so for generations, but they should not feel they have to face them alone,” said Associate Professor Kate Gunn, Founder and Director of ifarmwell.

Associate Professor Gunn understands these issues from both a personal and professional perspective, having grown up on a farm near Streaky Bay and worked as a Clinical Psychologist:

“It can be very overwhelming when your future is uncertain due to something beyond your control – something you can’t simply fx – like the weather.”

“This campaign is about focusing on what you can control, getting active, lifting each other up and sharing the load – all things we know help farmers

maintain good mental health.”

Associate Professor Gunn says this campaign is not only important – it’s timely, as it follows one of the most severe dry periods in South Australia’s history.

“Although parts of the state have now enjoyed some rain, unfortunately that rain has not washed all of the worries away. For example, it will take a long time for many farming families to recover fnancially.”

“Findings from previous droughts suggest that the full emotional impact of drought does not actually peak until the most intense dry period is over, so this campaign will be relevant and important for some time.”

Coordinating the rollout of the Weather it Together campaign, from the ifarmwell team at the University of South Australia, is former ABC rural journalist Annabelle Ottens (Homer), “As someone who has grown

up in rural Queensland and now lives in South Australia’s Mid North, I’ve experienced my fair share of dry seasons and understand the challenges farming families face when faced with adversity.”

“I am delighted to roll out this campaign in partnership with farming and community groups across South Australia.”

Numerous industry groups are backing the campaign, including Primary Producers SA, Grain Producers SA, Livestock SA and the SA Dairyfarmers’ Association.

Primary Producers SA Chair Professor Simon Maddocks explains; “This campaign is farmer-focused, evidence-based and timely.”

“It’s about embracing hope, reminding each other that there are practical things you can do to make yourself feel more positive when things get tough, and instilling the message, ‘We’ve made it this far, we’ll weather it together.”

Minister for Primary

Industries and Regional Development, Clare Scriven, says; “We want farmers to know they are not alone.”

“The State Government is committed to standing alongside them in the tough times, through programs like the Drought Mental Health Support Package and new initiatives such as Weather it Together.”

“This campaign is about practical support, but also about reminding farmers and their families that it’s okay to reach out, to talk, and to share the load.

“By working together, we can help ensure our farming communities are strong, resilient and prepared for whatever the future holds.”

Weather It Together will frst take shape on regional TV, radio, in the print media and online through a campaign website and social channels, sharing reminders and real farmer stories demonstrating the power of connection, movement, keeping focused on what really matters

and opening up about challenges.

Over the coming months, the message will then spread into clubs and pubs, GP clinics, service stations and community hubs – anywhere farmers and regional communities gather.

"This campaign is about saying, ‘you’re not alone’ –no matter what the season throws at you," said Ben Lehmann, a mixed farmer from Caltowie who helped shape the project.

"When times are tough, it’s the people around you who make the diference –whether that’s catching up for a cofee, talking on the phone or knowing where to fnd the right support.

“It’s important we remind each other that speaking up about your challenges not only helps you, but it might open the door for a mate to do the same.

For more information and to access the farmerfriendly resources, visit weatherittogether.org. au.

NSW Trout Fishing Season Casts Off with Strong Start

Ian Rogers

The start of October saw the return of one of New South Wales’ most anticipated recreational pastimes, as the 2025–26 trout fshing season ofcially opened on Saturday, 4 October. The opening coincided with the Labour Day long weekend, drawing tens of thousands of anglers to the state’s alpine and high-country waterways for the frst casts of the season.

The season had been closed for four months to allow trout populations to spawn and reproduce, ensuring healthy stocks for recreational fshers. From its opening, the season was set to run until midnight on 8 June 2026.

Prime Conditions and Heavy Stocking

Rivers and streams across the state were in excellent condition for the season’s start, aided by the NSW Government’s extensive stocking programs. Over the six months following the opening, two million fsh — including Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout, and Atlantic Salmon — were scheduled to be released into lakes and rivers across the state. The work is being led by the Dutton and Gaden Trout Hatcheries, which

produce millions of trout and salmon each year. These facilities also breed endangered native species, playing a vital role in maintaining biodiversity. The Minns Government confrmed in October that it was reviewing ways to expand hatchery capacity to further support recreational fshing.

Boost for Regional Economies

Beyond the enjoyment for anglers, the trout fshing season provides a signifcant economic boost to regional communities. Recreational fshing generates approximately $3.4 billion annually for the NSW economy, much of it fowing directly into rural and regional towns through accommodation, hospitality, and tourism services.

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, highlighted

the importance of the season in both social and economic terms.

“Trout fshing in NSW is more than just a weekend hobby; it plays a signifcant role in supporting regional tourism and driving local economic activity,” Ms Moriarty said. She noted that fshing also connects people with nature and ofers an escape into tranquil environments, which can enhance personal wellbeing.

World-Class Locations

NSW is home to some of the country’s most renowned trout fshing waters. Anglers in October were treated to pristine conditions in the Snowy Mountains’ Thredbo and Eucumbene rivers, the tree-lined creeks of the Central West near Bathurst, and the rocky streams of the New

England region.

These areas are not only recognised for the quality of their sportfshing but also for their breathtaking natural beauty, attracting fshers from across Australia and abroad.

Accessibility and Education

The Minns Government has placed an emphasis on making recreational fshing more accessible, especially for families and younger generations. Initiatives include promoting fshing during school holidays and supporting school-based education programs to introduce students to the sport.

“Fishers heading out for the start of the trout fshing season were in for a treat, with our world-class stocking program ensuring great opportunities for these highly popular sportfsh,” Ms Moriarty said.

Rules and Regulations

With the excitement of the season’s opening, authorities reminded fshers to ensure they held a valid NSW Recreational Fishing Fee Receipt unless exempt. Anglers were also urged to review the state’s fshing rules before heading out.

The FishSmart App and

the NSW Recreational Freshwater Fishing Guide, available online and through NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development ofces, provide accessible information on size and bag limits, gear restrictions, and conservation practices.

A Community Tradition

The opening of the trout season in October was more than just a sporting event — it was a

celebration of community, nature, and regional heritage. For generations, families have made the journey to NSW’s highcountry streams to mark the beginning of the season, and 2025 was no exception. With rivers well stocked, conditions near perfect, and communities ready to welcome visitors, the 2025–26 trout season was set to deliver another year of memorable fshing experiences across New South Wales.

Water fees continue to rise despite reprieve from IPART

Water users across New South Wales will face higher licensing fees, with the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) confrming a 5% plus CPI annual increase for the next four years.

The decision forms part of IPART’s fnal Water Administration Ministerial Corporation (WAMC) pricing determination. While the increase is considerably lower than the 15% hike initially requested by WAMC, it remains a signifcant burden for farmers and irrigators already under pressure from rising input costs.

The NSW Irrigators’ Council (NSWIC) strongly opposed the original proposal, warning it would worsen afordability challenges across the sector. NSWIC CEO Dr Madeleine Hartley said the new determination still represents another hit to farm budgets.

“This price hike comes on top of IPART’s previous decision to increase WaterNSW costs by an average of 8.3% across valleys. It adds further pressure on irrigators, who are already contending

with rising input costs like energy and fertiliser,” Dr Hartley said.

What the increases mean

IPART’s modelling shows the impact of the decision:

• An irrigator on the unregulated Murrumbidgee with a 500ML licence and 60% average usage will see their WAMC bill rise by $1,041 over four years

• The equivalent irrigator in the unregulated Namoi system will pay an additional $412 over the same period.

Dr Hartley noted that while the 5% increase delivers some relief compared to the initial proposal — saving Murrumbidgee irrigators about $602 over four years — other costs have escalated.

“Some transaction costs central to compliance have increased, with telemetry validation fees nearly doubling in price,” she said.

Ongoing afordability concerns

NSWIC says the decision highlights the need for longterm reform of water pricing in NSW.

“This decision, on top of other rising fnancial pressures, will be felt on farms across NSW. This can have an impact on local production and, ultimately, the price of food and fbre in our shops,” Dr Hartley said.

“We acknowledge that IPART has heard our afordability concerns and lessened the blow. We agree with its assessment that many of WAMC’s costs were not sufciently justifed, and we hope a lasting solution to the afordability of water charges can be found.”

Ian Rogers

With Mental Health Week starting this Saturday, 4 October, Rural Aid is encouraging New South Wales farmers to take meaningful steps toward better mental wellbeing. This year’s theme, Taking Steps on Your Wellbeing Journey, is a reminder that mental health is a process, not a destination.

“Everyone’s journey is different,” said Ian Larnach, Rural Aid’s NSW-based counsellor.

“The important thing is to start. That might mean checking in with yourself, having a conversation with someone you trust, or talking to a counsellor.”

Mr Larnach supports farmers across NSW with free, confidential counselling, helping them

work through challenges such as stress, family pressures, isolation and grief.

“You don’t have to take big leaps,” he said. “Even the smallest step forward can shift your perspective. And over time, those small steps

add up to real progress.”

Rural Aid’s mental health program includes personalised counselling, wellbeing sessions, community workshops and proactive checkins designed to support farmers in their everyday lives.

World Mental Health Day, on Friday 10 October, also provides a moment to pause, reflect and encourage open conversations about mental wellbeing.

“Farmers are often so focused on looking after their land, stock and

families that they forget to look after themselves,” Mr Larnach said. “But your wellbeing matters too. And there’s always support available.”

NSW primary producers can access Rural Aid’s counselling and mental health support services here:

• 1300 327 624

• mhwb@ruralaid.org.au

• www.ruralaid.org.au/ mental-health-wellbeing

“You don’t have to have it all figured out,” Mr Larnach said. “Just start where you are. And know that you’re not alone — Rural Aid is here to walk alongside you.”

Take the next step: Rural Aid supports NSW farmers this Mental Health Week ABARES Weekly Australian Climate, Water and Agricultural Update

Ian Rogers

Weather and rainfall

Cold fronts delivered patchy rainfall to parts of southern Australia in the week ending 2 October 2025. However, most winter cropping regions received little to no rain.

• Western Australia, New South Wales and Queensland cropping districts recorded almost no falls.

• South Australia, southern WA and Victoria picked up between 1–10 mm. These low totals have drawn down existing soil moisture reserves, and in areas already short on moisture, yield outcomes for winter crops are beginning to decline as crops near the end of their development stage. Looking ahead, forecasts to 8 October 2025 suggest:

• 5–15 mm across cropping areas of Victoria, South Australia, and southern NSW.

• 5–25 mm across much of Western Australia.

• Minimal falls for most of Queensland and the remainder of NSW. If realised, these rains should assist late crop and pasture growth in the south, while Queensland and northern NSW will remain reliant on stored soil moisture.

Crop and pasture conditions

• In southern NSW, September’s average to above-average rainfall has arrested soil moisture decline and stabilised winter crop yield potential, while boosting pasture.

• In Queensland, SA and Victoria, below-average September falls, coupled with soil moisture reserves, have so far been enough to sustain crop and pasture growth.

• Timely follow-up rainfall remains critical to maintaining current yield potential in regions recently exposed to dry conditions. What it means for Northern Rivers producers

• Pastures holding: Mild September weather and scattered showers have kept pastures green, but inland areas are now relying on stored soil

moisture.

• Summer plantings delayed: Without further rain in early October, silage and forage sorghum sowings may be pushed back.

• Watering points steady: Farm dams and creeks remain serviceable, but conditions could tighten quickly if October stays dry.

• Market caution: Cattle producers remain cautious — pasture growth has been enough

to hold weight gains, but confdence for restocker demand will depend on rain arriving soon.

Bottom line: The region is holding on, but timely October rainfall is critical for both pastures and summer cropping programs.

Water storage Murray–Darling Basin (MDB) storages fell by 58 GL between 25 September and 2 October, bringing the total to 15,586 GL (70%

of capacity). This is 12% lower than the same time last year, with volumes down 2,192 GL

Water markets

• Allocation prices in the Victorian Murray below the Barmah Choke rose from $279/ ML (25 Sept) to $300/ ML (2 Oct)

• Trade restrictions remain:

• Goulburn to Murray: closed

• Downstream through Barmah Choke: closed

• Murrumbidgee to Murray: closed Summary

• Dry September has left crops reliant on soil moisture reserves, particularly in QLD and northern NSW.

• Forecast October rains across southern cropping regions may help sustain winter crops through the end of their growth period.

• MDB water storages continue to decline, while allocation prices frm as restrictions tighten.

• For the Northern Rivers, producers remain cautious, with pasture holding but summer sowing plans hinging on the arrival of consistent October rainfall.

Warm Weather Vegetables for Northern Rivers Gardens

Jef Gibbs

Gardening in the Northern Rivers region ofers an extended growing season, with warm weather stretching well into autumn and returning early in spring. This climate provides perfect conditions for warm weather vegetables, which thrive when soil and air temperatures rise above 18°C. With careful planning, local gardeners can enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh produce from their backyard throughout the hotter months.

Tomatoes: The Backyard Staple

Tomatoes are among the most popular warm season crops. They require full sun, fertile soil and consistent watering to produce abundant fruit. In the Northern Rivers, planting can start from late August once the soil has warmed. Cherry tomatoes are a great choice for beginners, as they tend to be more pest-resistant

and yield quickly. Regular staking or caging helps keep plants upright, while mulching retains moisture and keeps roots cool.

Cucumbers: Crisp and Fast-Growing

Cucumbers grow rapidly in warm weather and provide refreshing additions to summer salads. They prefer welldrained soil enriched with compost and need plenty of water during fowering and fruiting. In this region, planting can continue into summer, ensuring staggered harvests. Climbing varieties are perfect for smaller gardens, as they can be trained up a trellis to save space and reduce pest problems.

Sweet Corn: A Summer Favourite

Sweet corn is best planted in blocks rather than rows to ensure good pollination. With the Northern Rivers’ fertile soils and warm climate, corn can grow rapidly, often reaching harvest

in as little as 10 weeks. Watering is particularly important when tassels and cobs form. For a continuous supply, stagger plantings every two to three weeks until midsummer.

Zucchini: Reliable and Prolifc

Few vegetables produce as generously as zucchini during the warmer months. With just a couple of plants, families can enjoy steady pickings. Zucchini prefer full sun and fertile, well-mulched soil. Regular harvesting when fruit is small ensures better favour and prevents oversized marrows from developing. Powdery mildew can be a problem in humid Northern Rivers conditions, but this can be managed with good airfow and regular monitoring.

Capsicum and Chillies: Colour and Spice

Capsicums and chillies love warmth and reward

gardeners with colourful and favoursome crops. They require longer growing seasons than many other vegetables, making the Northern Rivers climate especially suitable. Mulching helps regulate soil temperature, while liquid feeding encourages fowering and fruiting. Both can be grown in the ground or large pots, making them versatile choices for home gardens.

Beans: Quick Returns

Beans are an excellent warm season crop, sprouting quickly and producing within weeks of planting. Bush beans are compact and ideal for smaller spaces, while climbing varieties give higher yields over longer periods. Beans prefer consistent watering and beneft from a trellis or support structure in windy conditions. Planting through spring and early summer can keep fresh beans on the table well into autumn.

Planning for Success

To make the most of warm weather vegetables in the Northern Rivers, gardeners should prepare soil with organic matter, maintain regular watering, and protect crops from pests such as fruit fy.

Staggered plantings, crop rotation and companion planting can extend harvests and improve plant health. With the region’s favourable climate, a thriving and productive summer garden is well within reach.

BALLINA FREE COMMUNITY HOT BRUNCH

EMBROIDERERS GROUP

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Meetings are 9.30am-1.30pm, 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 SUB-BRANCH

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

BALLINA LADIES PROBUS

The Ballina Ladies Probus Club meets on the first Wednesday of each month at 10:00 am at the Ballina RSL Club. We currently have vacancies and warmly welcome new members and visitors to join us for our monthly meetings, social outings, and special events – all centred around fun, fellowship, and friendship. Our October social event is a lunch at Wok Star, West Ballina, on Wednesday, 15th October at 12:00 pm – great food and even better company! Looking ahead, we’re planning a fun-filled shopping trip to Robina on Wednesday, 12th November – an outing not to be missed! For more information about our club or upcoming events, please contact our President, Jeanette, on 0407 417 470. We’d love to hear from you!

Community Kids! Precious Treasure

Children are the most precious treasure a community can possess, for in them are the promise and guarantee of the future, through our collective attention and support, we ensure a brighter future for them. Parents and community members, your involvement is vital. Years of experience, join our Lennox Head Kids group age 5 to 12 to learn about community values through project, stories and Bahá’í inspired quotes promoting Unity, harmony, and kindness. Location: CWA hall (Lennox Head cultural centre) 8 August 2025 (every Friday) to 7 November 2025 Time: 16:30 – 17:30

Contact: Parvin Mansouri, 0481390767 Fee $5

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 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 co ee. 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 di erent? If you would like to improve your communication and leadership skills or simply make new friends and have fun, you are warmly invited to attend the In Focus Toastmasters Club. We meet the 3rd Wednesday evening of each month. You may attend either from the comfort of your own home via zoom or join us in person at the Cherry Street Sports Club, Ballina.

BRUNSWICK HEADS

BRUNSWICK VALLEY VIEW CLUB

Brunswick Valley VIEW Club’s monthly luncheons are held at Brunswick Heads Bowling Club on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 10.30am for 11am.Apologies to Wenda on 0449 563 580 no later than the Monday before. VIEW stands for Voice, Interests and Education of Women. The club supports seven disadvantaged students in The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program. 1800 805 366

CWA Brunswick Heads

CWA Brunswick Heads branch will be holding a one-o Craft and Sewing Supply Sale on Saturday 18th October from 10am to 2pm at their hall on the corner of Booyun and Park Streets Brunswick Heads. Fabric, Lace, Yarns, Wools, Candle wicking, Threads, Patterns and much more. Tea and cakes will be available to buy, for enquiries please contact 0431 908063

CASINO

WINDARA

CRAWFORD HOUSE MUSEUM

This year Alstonville Public School celebrates 150 years of education on the Plateau, and Alstonville Plateau Historical Society is presenting a small and eclectic exhibition about the school, running until Friday 25th January. Crawford House Museum is 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 and other great merch. for sale. If you’re a support worker and you bring a client to the museum, your admission is free. The museum is at 10 Wardell Road Alstonville and is open on Fridays between 10am and 4pm and Sundays between 1pm and 4pm or at other times by appointment for groups

Alstonville RSL

Alstonville RSL sub-Branch meets on the second Saturday of the month, with morning tea at 10am followed by the meeting, then a light luncheon from 1200. All ex-service persons and families are welcome to attend the lunch.

WOLLONGBAR PROBUS CLUB

Wollongbar Probus Club meets on the third Thursday of the month at the Alstonville Plateau Bowls and Sports Club, 10-14 Deegan Drive Alstonville, at 10am. Our next meeting is on Thursday 16th October and our guest speaker will be Alanah Ward talking about Ballina Tourism. Visitors are always welcome to attend. For information phone Keith on 66280393.

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.

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 Barbershop 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.

Volunteers are excited to be holding our fundraiser, the MELBOURNE CUP LUNCHEON on Tuesday 4 November, doors open at 11.30. Glass of bubbles on arrival with sweeps, ra les and lucky door prizes to be won. Also best dressed on the day. The luncheon this year will be bu et style to your own table to serve yourself, with delicious salads and meats with dessert to follow. The cost for this delightful day out is only $45. Bookings can be made at Artisan Gift Shop in Walker Street, Casino or by phoning Windara 66623800, please book by Friday 31 October to avoid disappointment. If you require the courtesy bus, please ring Windara.

CWA Casino Day

Our next meeting is Thursday 16th October (3rd Thursday of the month). This will be followed by the AGM. The Land Cookery entry for September is a Chocolate butter Cake. All cookery/ recipe enquiries – Ellie Maloney 0421595398. Everyone is welcome, come and have a cuppa see what we are doing in our community Enquires Margaret Good 66621746, Jane Flick 0427 707 669.

Casino / Richmond Valley Blind Citizens Australia Branch Casino /Richmond Valley BCA Branch October meeting is in the Casino Baptist Church Hall on the corner of Canterbury and West Streets Casino on Monday 13 October at 10am. Come and enjoy a “Cuppa” before the meeting Special guest speaker talking on the changes to the aged care packages. Outing for the month is Monday 20th October to Evans head RSL club to Morning Melodies featuring Dean Perret. Meet at Casino Baptist Church Hall at 9am to carpool to Evans Head. New members are very welcome. Free transport is available Denise on 0448 014 682

CASINO CHARITY CASH BINGO if you would like to come along and join us each at Casino RSM Club each Thursday mornings 10.00an 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 / Richmond Valley Blind Citizens Australia Branch

Casino /Richmond Valley BCA Branch would like to invite everyone to join them in celebrating International White Cane Day on Wednesday 15th October Meet at the Richmond Valley Council Chambers at 11.30am for a walk through the main town for lunch at the Hong Kong Chinese Restaurant. This is an activity to highlight the needs and issues facing blind and vision impaired people as they negotiate our streets. RSVP essential for restaurant booking. New members are very welcome Free transport is available Denise on 0448 014 682

Line dance

Line dance classes in Casino at St Marks Hall beginners welcome 5pm every Monday first 2 classes free. Info call or sms Lorraine 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 o ice on 66621217. Volunteering once a month for 1hour or so

CASINO COMMUNITY MEN’S SHED

Mon, Tues, Wed, attendance limited to 50 members, 8am-1.30pm. Contact 66626423

CASINO & DISTRICT FAMILY HISTORY GROUP INCW

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

Cassino Gallery Inc.

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

CASINO LADIES AND FRIEND CRAFT GROUP

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

Casino & District Orchid Society

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

CASINO MINI RAIL

Every Sunday we are now open from 9.00am to 2.30pm every Sunday (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 Gri ins, 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 12:00-1:30pm At the Casino Baptist Church, corner of West & Canterbury Streets Casino. Newcomers welcome. Contact George 0427 133 372.

CASINO AA WOMEN’S MEETINGS

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

LION’S CLUB CASINO

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

LISMORE CASINO NAVAL ASSOCIATION

Meets bi-monthly 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.

Eltham

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

EVANS HEAD

EVANS HEAD PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP

will next meet on Thursday, October 23 at 10 am at Thyme Evans Head Village Community Centre, 74 Currajong St Evans Head. We are excited to welcome this month's speakers, Melanie Ward, a North Coast Exercise Physiology Coordinator and Wellness Coordinator, along with Susan Drummond, a Far North Coast Community Aged Care Manager, both from Integrated Living,

Ballina. We are also very pleased that Chris Grudno who lives with Parkinson's Disease as well as Cancer, will share some of his insights into the finer details of managing both illnesses simultaneously to maintain optimum Health. All members of the Parkinson's Community, family and friends are most welcome to attend. Tea and co ee for a gold coin donation. For further details please phone Di on 0423941119”

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

The Rotary Club of Evans Head Markets held on the Last Saturday of the month held at Cribb Reserve opposite Illawong Hotel at 8am – 1pm. A vast variety of stores from clothes, candle, Honey Photographs, books, and Organic Vegetables along with Rotary Bacon & Egg Rolls

Rotary Evans

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

EVANS HEAD CWA BRANCH

meets every third Tuesday for lunch at noon new members welcome. info 0419 753 579

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: 9am-12noon; Monday and Wednesday nights social playing: 7-9pm; Training Monday mornings: 9am-12noon; Junior coaching after school Wednesday 3.30pm-4.45pm, $6 a session. Everybody is welcome – all levels. Phone centre on 66251602. Mon-Thurs 9.00am-1.00pm

THE PROBUS CLUB of Goonellabah meets on the 3rd Thursday of each month at the Workers Sports Club in Oliver Ave. All welcome. Goonellabah Probus is solely a social club. We have a guest speaker each month and go for outings throughout the year. Meetings on Thursday commence at 10am and finish at midday. For further information, Liz 0451 020 241

GRAFTON

GRAFTON U3A

Our next Jabberfest will be held at 10:00am on 13 October 2025 at New Life Church Centre Arthur Street Grafton where our guest presenter will be Dr Bill Wynn, senior inpatient physiotherapist at Grafton Base Hospital. Bill works predominantly across surgical, intensive care and coronary care areas and his team assist patients to regain function following illness, injury or accidents to enable safe discharge and promote ongoing rehabilitation that continues in the outpatient setting of the hospital. November will be our final Jabberfest for the year and will include as guest speaker Grafton identity Je Smith of “I Scream” fame. At our September Jabberfest guest speaker and committee member Ken Woodward made reference to the upcoming 50th anniversary of Papua New Guinea being granted Independence on 16 September 1975. Ken, who was based there for 7 years from 1971, shared the extensive history of the country dating from 16th century forward. In 1884, New Guinea was divided between Germany (North) and Britain (South East) after which Ken took us through the many administration changes that the country encountered, together with its involvement in two World wars, economic developments, arrival of missionaries etc. through to the present day where health and law and order still remain significant issues as independence has not been a smooth path. A social get-together for members has been organized for 22 October for a luncheon at the Village Green Hotel. Sign-up sheets will be available at October Jabberfest 13 October, in the U3A Rooms at Dougherty House and at Men’s Shed. Aside from our monthly Jabberfest with a guest presenter and morning tea, Grafton U3A o ers a range of courses/interest groups covering a wide spectrum of activities promoting learning for personal enjoyment and wellbeing. Keeping the brain active, making new friends and helping members to maximise their independence remaining healthy and active for longer. Course and Interest Group details are available on the Grafton U3A website, and all groups are always happy to welcome new members. Members also receive the monthly newsletter “Jabber Journal” to keep them up to date. If you are considering membership of Grafton U3A and would like more information, please contact Bruce Carle on 0409 225 536.U3A is the University of the Third Age and a world-wide movement. It is the age of active retirement coming after the ages of youth, work and home making. University is rather a loose term as there are no academic requirements for membership and no exams. New members are always most welcome.

GRAFTON AL-ANON FAMILY GROUP

Grafton Al-Anon Family Group hold their meetings 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 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. AlAnon 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 of alcoholics and by giving understanding and encouragement to the alcoholic. For further information or to talk to a member in confidence call 1300 252 666

GRAFTON SENIOR CITIZENS

4 DAY COACH TOUR "23 members of Grafton Senior Citizens recently had a 4-day coach tour to Inverell area. Day 1, Gwydir Highway to Glen Innes, picnic morning tea in local park. To Danthonia, a cornmune of 200 residents east of Inverell, for organised lunch, & guided tour of sign business. At Inverell, visited Gem Centre, then Tourist Information Centre, before arriving at accommodation for next 3 nights. Day 2, to Copeton Dam for view, & picnic morning tea. At Inverell, self-guided tour of National Transport Museum, then organised lunch. Finally, to Gilgai New England Woodturning & Sculptures for didgeridoo demonstration, afternoon tea, view of gallery, & time to wander sculptures throughout grounds. Day 3, Mount Russell Wyoming Lavender for talk, morning tea of lavender scones, time to view gift shop. At Inverell Pioneer Village for organised lunch & selfguided tour. Finally, to Lake Inverell to take in view of relaxing venue. Day 4, to Tingha for self-guided tour of Wing Hing Long, a historic shop, frozen to 1996 when shop closed, leaving all contents intact. After Devonshire Tea, short drive to Green Valley Farm, for self-guided tour of museum, playground, animal farm, before organised lunch. Then a drive to Guyr4 a short visit to view tomato hot houses, then joined New England Highway to Glen Innes. After picnic afternoon tea at Standing Stones, travelled Gwydir Highway home to Grafton. Sincere thanks to committee for serving morning / afternoon teas, to all for support of trip, to all who assisted in various ways, & Coach Captain, Alan R, for ensuring great safe journey. Next meeting, Tuesday, 14 October, 10am. Next day coach trip to New Italy & Evans Head, Friday, 14 November, seats still available. Enquiries, Sandra, 6642 7720; 0417 464 946.

An Amazing Event is coming to Grafton Gallery!

Our River, Our Stories, Our Song. Clarence River Guardians and the Grafton Regional Gallery present Water Talks Gathering a celebration of our river on World Rivers Day. Enjoy River Stories, hear about cutting edge river research, and be moved by the Youth Dance Mob’s Performance of Big River Song. When: Sunday 28th September, 11am – 2pm Where: Grafton Regional Gallery Includes: Finger food, tea and co ee. Come and Celebrate Our River! Proudly supported by Southern Cross University and The Lions Club of Clarence – Environmental 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 – Schae er 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

Kingscli 500 Card Club. Monday and Wednesday afternoons 1pm to 4pm Cudgen Surf Club New players WELCOME Contact: GARY 0499869992

Kingscli Probus Club

First Wednesday of the month, 10am to 12 noon in the function room of Kingscli 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 meeting and music day will be held at 11am on 12th October at Wiangaree Hall. We'll make plans for our upcoming Christmas Party on 14th December. Be there at 12 to order our famous lunches provided by Wiangaree Store, which are delivered to the hall around about 1 am. All Welcome. $2 donation at door to go towards venue hire charge.

BORDER RANGES RSL DAY CLUB

The Kyogle Border Ranges RSL Day Club meets each Monday in the Kyogle Seniors Centre, 3 Bloore St, Kyogle, from 10am to 2pm.Cost $10, includes Morning Tea and Lunch. We welcome Volunteers and Members, if you are in need of some Company, you are welcome to attend. Come along and have some fun. Contact Oriel 0427245324.

KYOGLE WRITERS GROUP

Kyogle Writers Group meets on the last Saturday of each month and we welcome newcomers. We meet at the Roxy Lane back. entrance to the Kyogle Memorial Institute (Supper Room). Our aim is to provide support and encouragement for those new to writing, as well as more experienced writers. We practice many genres of writing poetry, memoir, and journaling to name a few. Morning tea at 9.30am is followed by our meeting from 10.00am till 12.00 pm. Throughout the year we have planned some wonderful writing workshops facilitated by local authors. For further information contact Vince on 0459 574179 or Susan on 0414 958245.

KYOGLE TIDY TOWNS FARMERS MARKET

Held every Saturday morning in Stratheden Street from 8am – 12. Come along grab some local fruit & veggies, experience all Kyogle has to o er. New Stall Holders welcome. Ph: Anne 66321851

LION’S CLUB OF KYOGLE

Meeting is held on the 1st & 3rd Tuesday each month at the Kyogle Lion’s shed from 6.30–7pm.Contact Neville Moon on 0448222334.

RICHMOND RIVER BEEF PRODUCER’S ASSOCIATION

Meet on the 2nd Wednesday of every month at Kyogle Showgrounds in the luncheon room at 7pm.Ph: Jan on 0427293455.

KYOGLE BAZAAR

Fourth Saturday of every month. See Kyogle Bazaar on social media for all the details or call 0459512249.

LENNOX HEAD

LENNOX HEAD EVENING VIEW CLUB

Meets on the second Tuesday of each month upstairs at the Lennox Hotel at 6.30pm for dinner at 7pm. Guests are welcome. “VIEW members support the education of disadvantaged Australian children by raising much needed funds for The Smith Family. Through fundraising activities and social events in local communities, members raise money that goes directly to The Smith Family’s learning and mentoring programs for disadvantaged. Students.” Lennox Head Evening VIEW Club currently sponsors two Learning for Life students': Sue Brennan 0409728814.

LENNOX HEAD LIONS CLUB

New members welcome to join our close-knit 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.

PROBUS CLUB OF LENNOX HEAD

Meets 9.30 for 10 at Club Lennox, 10 Stewart Street, on the first Thursday of each month. Visitors are welcome, also retired, or semi-retired people wishing to join our non-service club to hear interesting guest speakers and to join in trips and outings are invited along. Ph: June Zentveld on 66871004

LISMORE

Lismore Parkinsonism Support Group –for all Parkinson related disorders. We meet every third Friday of the month. Next group Meeting is 17th of October 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 CROQUET CLUB inc

Become a NEW Member for information call PH: 02 6622 6030 & leave a message with your contact details: Mondays: 8.30 – 10.30am onwards "unless a ected by weather" Croquet Practice for members with Phyllis, call or txt to confirm. M: 0429122353 Wednesdays: 8.30 – 11am Ricochet Croquet. Thursdays: 8.30am Golf Croquet. Wednesday 1st October: 11am - Monthly General Meeting followed by the Annual General Meeting (Members only). Friday: Evening Socials 3.30pm – Each Friday for Members and their Invited guests, (cancellation ONLY if raining). Contact Jan to confirm, call 0423322064 Friday: Evening Socials 3.30pm – Each Friday for Members and their Invited guests, (cancellation ONLY if raining). Contact Jan to confirm, call 0423322064

LISMORE CWA

We will now be holding a stall at the new Lismore Markets held at the Lismore City Bowling Club on the 3rd Sunday each month Membership Enquiries Helen Dargin Ph. 0438 828 619 or weekly Craft Meeting info. Vicki Boyle 0437 465 462. NOTICE of 2025 AGM. The Lismore CWA AGM will be held at our CWA rooms in Spinks Park. Lismore, on FRIDAY OCTOBER 10th, 2025. 9:30am for a 10.00am start. All Members welcome.

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 after-school activities called Library Afterschool. This term, we invite local children to get involved in PAPERCRAFT and LEGO activities. All sessions will be fun, free, low-key and inclusive, facilitated by your friendly Lismore Children's Library sta PAPERCRAFT 3.30pm-5pm 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 3.30pm-5pm 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, 6.15-7.45pm at Southern Cross University. If you can play a concert band instrument: brass, woodwind, or percussion, please come and join us! All ages welcome. We have some instruments available for loan. Ph: 0432575911

LISMORE MEN & COMMUNITY SHED

President: Mr Bob Greig 0404860504 publicity o icer Don Abrahams 0437576837

Opening Hours: Tuesday & Thursday 9.00am – 3.00pm We are a community based non-profit 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 well-being 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: $40-year Attendance Fee: $3 tea/co ee 15 Industry Drive East Lismore

LISMORE ORCHID SOCIETY INC.

City of Lismore Orchid Society Inc. Meetings are now at the Lismore Show Ground, In Norms Kitchen under the Members Grandstand. Alexandra Parade, North Lismore. NSW 2480 Meeting Date; the first Saturday of the month Meeting Time: 9:30am display plants set up, 10:00am meeting starts with a cuppa after. Contact President Mr. Steven Muldoon 0427789773

Orchid meeting involves the sharing of information, knowledge and friendship. All welcome. Lismore City Bowling and Recreation Club Community BINGO every Monday Morning 10am to 12 noon. Morning tea and Progressive Jackpot. All welcome. Ph 6621 5991

LISMORE SENIOR CITIZENS

Meet at the Goonellabah Community Centre every second Thursday starting at 9am where we have morning tea followed by games bingo how etc we play cards Monday and Friday and play bowls Tuesdays and craft every second Tuesday afternoons come and join our friendly group you will be very welcome.

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. (o 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).

CO-DEPENDANTS ANONYMOUS (CoDA)

Co-Dependants Anonymous is a Twelve Step Fellowship of people whose common purpose is to develop healthy relationships. The only requirement for membership is a desire for healthy relationships.The CoDA meeting in the Lismore area meets on Mondays from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Riverland’s Drug and Alcohol Centre. 75 Hunter Street, Lismore. For further information call 0456178826 or 0408336143

EAST LISMORE BOWLING CLUB

Community Bingo Tuesday night 7.30pm start. 20 games of bingo + progressive jackpot Neilson Street East Lismore. Everyone Welcome

EAST LISMORE SOCIAL TENNIS

Social Tennis is played at East Lismore Tennis Club, Cnr Neilson St & Oakley Avenue every Tuesday from 8am. We invite social players of all abilities to join us, we are a mixed group who enjoy a morning’s tennis without the commitment of competition. Ph: Fay Ross 0412910487. Everyone welcome.

MAINLY MUSIC

Fun, interactive, music sessions for young children [birth to school age] and their parents/caregivers in a relaxed setting on Tuesdays starting at 9:30am during School Terms. Children will be introduced to music, creativity and more. They will develop gross motor skills, as well as socialise with others in a loving, shared family environment. Morning tea with snacks included. Mainly Music at Lismore Anglican Parish Centre, 10 Zadoc Street, LISMORE. T: 0266213200

PROBUS CLUB OF LISMORE HEIGHTS

Our mixed group meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month at the Lismore Heights Bowling Club in High St. Our brief meeting is followed by morning tea and a guest speaker. Senior’s lunch for $15 at noon is optional. Guests and visitors are welcome. Ring/text Roslyn on 0437606674 for details of our other monthly social gatherings and outings.

ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE NETWORKING

Want to be part of an innovative, interesting, and inclusive networking group who meet fortnightly to share ideas, meet other professionals and work together to make a di erence in your community? Then Rotary Club of Lismore Networking could be the answer for you! Meets on the 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month at 5.30pm at The Civic Hotel (210 Molesworth Street Lismore). Ph: Rita on 0413300578 or Gae 0412742095.

ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE WEST INC

East Lismore Bowling Club each Thursday at 6pm. New members would be made most welcome. Further information available on 0428151934.

ROTARY CLUB OF SUMMERLAND SUNRISE

Interested in contributing to community? Local and international? The Rotary Club of Summerland Sunrise meets every Friday at 7.05am for Breakfast at Red Dove Café 80 Keen st Lismore. Join us please. Ph: 0435990919

SUMMERLAND AMATEUR RADIO CLUB

Meetings of the club are normally held on the second Sunday of each month at the clubrooms: 412 Richmond Hill Road, Richmond Hill at 1pm. Visitors are welcome. The clubrooms are usually open on Sunday afternoons from about 1pm onwards. We are primarily amateur radio enthusiasts and welcome persons interested in radio, electronics, astronomy, and similar subjects.

SUMMERLAND BONSAI SOCIETY INC.

Come and learn an addictive hobby with us. We provide personal support from experienced teachers as well as demonstrations and Bonsai information.

Club days are held on the second Saturday of every month at 1pm in the Red Dove at Lismore Be inspired about the art of creating little trees. Ph: 0438103601

ZEN and INSIGHT MEDITATION – Lismore Heights INSIGHT (VIPASSANA) MEDITATION and practice:This mindfulness-based meditation group sits on Wednesdays from 7:00-8:30pm. 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 6:30pm-8:15pm. 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 purposes.

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. Co ee, tea, milk provided. A small fee to cover hall hire. Ph 0401 047 513.

MURWILLUMBAH

COMMUNITY PRINTMAKERS MURWILLUMBAH

Fine art printmakers. Meet at studio space 224 Stokers Rd, Stokers Siding. Prints, gallery, workshops and more! Ph: Peter 0498399640 or Sue 0408493253.

MURWILLUMBAH COMMUNITY GARDEN

Members and visitors are invited to join the group for activities and gardening tips most Sundays. Time 3-5pm, street parking, BYO, covered footwear, comfy clothing, hat, and water. Children ok with strict supervision. Covid plan operating. Ph: Bob Johnson (02)66225792.

POTTSVILLE

Alcoholics Anonymous: Is drinking costing you more than money? AA works and is very active in Pottsville. We meet every Thursday 7pm at St Marks 15A Coronation Ave Pottsville and local contact 1800 423 431 or 04019 45671

POTTSVILLE FUN CROQUET CLUB

Meets at Black Rocks Sports Fields on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8.30am. New members are welcome to come and join us for a hit and a bit of fun. For any further enquires please call Jean on 0431606375.

TWEED HEADS

Poets and writers on the Tweed meet every Tuesday at the South Tweed Sports Club 1.30-3.30pm. Beginners welcome. Phone 0755248035.

TWEED HEADS PROBUS CLUB

Probus Club, Coolangatta/Tweed Heads. Be at Club Tweed at 10-00am 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 9-1pm at 18 He ron 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 o ending 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 Probus Club meets on the third Thursday of the month at the Alstonville Plateau Bowls and Sports Club, 10-14 Deegan Drive Alstonville, at 10am. Our next meeting is on Thursday 16th October and our guest speaker will be Alanah Ward talking about Ballina Tourism. Visitors are always welcome to attend. For information phone Keith on 66280393.

YAMBA

YAMBA LIONS CLUB

Yamba Lions Club’s meetings are held 2nd & 4th Thursdays of month at Yamba Bowling Club, commencing at 7pm for 7.30pm. For further information, please contact the Secretary Peter 0417546097. Social outings also held at various time and visitors and new members’ welcome.

ALL NORTHERN RIVERS

AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS

Al-Anon o ers 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 MONDAY 11:00am – 12.30 pm ILUKA – CWA Hall (behind the Iluka Museum), 2 Charles St. TUESDAY 12.00 – 1.30 pm GRAFTON – Hall 2, Salvation Army, 91-93 Oliver St.1:00 – 2.30 pm LISMORE "The Studio", adjacent to 14 Pleasant St, Goonellabah & ZOOM ID 252 666 0000 (no password) (enter at rear of car park, cnr Pleasant & Fischer Sts) WEDNESDAY 6.30 – 8:00 pm BALLINA – Anglican Church, 24 Burnet St & ZOOM ID 252 666 0000 (no 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 SUNDAY 4:00 pm CHINDERAH Seventh Day Adventist Church, 83 Phillip St.

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 realise their full potential. Ph: 0499862886

The NORTHERN RIVERS HASH HOUSE HARRIERS is a non-profit community group that is part of a worldwide organisation. 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.

Connecting the Community in September 2025

Connect You Too has been busy helping the community get out and about during September 2025In September 2025, we did a total of 2,484 trips with a total of 82,651 service kms for 487 customers. Our popular estimations included 95 trips to Ballina; 62 trips to Co s Harbour; 19 trips to the Gold Coast; 1,073 trips to Grafton; 113 trips to Lismore and 826 trips to the Yamba/Maclean area We managed to get the community to 1,014 Specialist and GP appointments; 34 Hospital visits (Day Surgery drop o / pick-up); 554 social trips & 722 shopping trips. In September, our social trips travelled to Connect You Too’s Townsend depot for their ‘Around the World’ Safari open day. 91 customers enjoyed this outing. This month we are visiting Sawtell’s Main Street for a wander and lunch. Our monthly shoppers visited Tweed City in September and are due to visit Lismore this month. In September, we held a special trip to Whoopi to visit Curry fest. We helped 25 customers access this special outing In September 2025, our fortnightly shopping buses to Grafton Shopping world had travellers from Glenreagh (6); Brooms Head (11); Iluka (16); Wooli (9) and Yamba/Maclean (6). We also transported 72 customers from Malabugilmah and Baryulgil into Grafton for medical and shopping services during September 2025 Our Clarence Meals service delivered 2107 meals, 352 desserts and 72 soups during September 2025. We were able to do welfare checks, have a quick chat and help our customers see a friendly face. Clarence Meals provides delivered meals to Iluka, Maclean and Yamba and surrounds from suppliers including Gourmet Meals, Lite n’ Easy and Meals on Wheels Grafton. For more information call 6646 6742 If you need help with transport or meals, call Connect You Too at Townsend on 6645 3200 to see if you qualify for any subsidies or assistance

WEATHER

FORECAST

Northern Rivers District:

Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog. Light winds becoming northerly 15 to 25 km/h during the day. Thursday. Sunny day. Slight chance of a shower in the afternoon and evening. The chance of a storm in the south in the afternoon and evening. Winds northerly 15 to 25 km/h.

Northern Tablelands District:

Partly cloudy. Slight chance of a shower in the south. The chance of a storm in the south. Winds west to northwesterly 15 to 20 km/h increasing to 35 km/h before tending north to northwesterly 15 to 20 km/h during the day.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the afternoon and evening. The chance of a storm. Winds north to northwesterly 15 to 25 km/h tending west to northwesterly 25 to 35 km/h during the day.

New South Wales:

Isolated showers developing across most of the state, tending scattered on the southern slopes in the afternoon and evening. Isolated gusty storms in the northwest and central eastern districts and northern districts. Patchy morning fog about the northern and southern ranges. Patchy morning frost about the far southern ranges. Daytime temperatures well above average across most of the state, grading to above average about the far southern inland. Northeast to northwesterly winds, freshening along the northern coast and ranges during the day. A west to southwesterly change entering the far west later in the day.

Thursday. Isolated to scattered showers across central and southeastern areas, spreading to the northeast. Isolated storms in the north. Daytime temperatures near or above average, tending well above average in the northeast. West to southwesterly winds in the west. Northeast to northwesterly winds in the east, turning west to northwesterly and freshening along the ranges later in the day.

Byron Coast: Winds: Northerly 15 to 20 knots increasing to 20 to 25 knots during the afternoon. Seas: Around 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 2 metres during the afternoon. 1st Swell: Southerly 1 to 1.5 metres, decreasing to around 1 metre during the evening. 2nd Swell: North to northeasterly below 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore during the morning. Weather: Partly cloudy.

Coffs Coast: Winds: Northerly 15 to 20 knots increasing to 20 to 25 knots during the afternoon. Seas: Around 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 2 metres during the afternoon. 1st Swell: Southerly 1 to 1.5 metres, decreasing to around 1 metre during the evening. 2nd Swell: North to northeasterly below 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore during the morning. Weather: Partly cloudy. Gold Coast Waters: Winds: Northerly 15 to 20 knots. Seas: 1 to 1.5 metres, decreasing to 1 metre during the morning. Swell: South to southeasterly around 1 metre. Weather: Partly cloudy.

Surf Life Saving Far North Coast Launches New Season

Jef Gibbs

As the weather warms and locals prepare for another summer by the sea, Surf Life Saving Far North Coast is gearing up to start its patrol season with the annual Raising of the Flags ceremony and the launch of the popular Nippers program.

The season will ofcially open at 8:15am on Saturday, 27 September, at Cudgen Headland Surf Life Saving Club. Nippers across the region will return to the sand in October.

Surf Life Saving Far North Coast plays a vital role in keeping local beaches safe. Its longrunning partnership with Newcastle Permanent, now in its 17th year, refects a strong commitment to the wellbeing of coastal communities from Yamba to Fingal Head.

almost 32,000 preventative actions and clocked up more than 43,000 patrol hours. With more than 253,000 visitors to our beaches last season and even more expected this year, their role is vital,” he said.

Mr Rope added that Nippers provides the next generation of lifesavers with essential skills while fostering community spirit.

“We’re extremely grateful for the continued support of Newcastle Permanent, which helps ensure we have the resources to keep our beaches safe and welcoming for everyone,” he said.

Last season, Newcastle Permanent supported more than 2,000 Nippers across 10 clubs, helping children learn vital skills including surf awareness, CPR, and rescue techniques, while also enjoying fun beach activities.

return of summer.

Newcastle Permanent Branch Manager David Parker said the launch signals more than just the

“The raising of the fags and Nippers season launch are reminders of the dedication of our Surf Life Savers who protect the community,” Mr Parker

said. “We’re honoured to support the sustainability of lifesaving services and the Nippers program, as well as the training and retention of local volunteers.”

Far North Coast Director of Lifesaving, David Rope, said the contribution of volunteers last season was extraordinary.

“Over summer, our lifesavers carried out

Newcastle Permanent contributes nearly $1.5 million annually to communities across the state through partnerships, employee volunteering, fundraising and local programs. For more information about joining a Surf Life Saving Club on the Far North Coast, visit www. slsfnc.com.au

Northern Rivers Sports Wrap: October 5–6 Results and What’s Ahead

Robert Heyward

The frst weekend of October brought a mix of triumph, ferce competition, and anticipation across the Northern Rivers sporting scene, with several local teams closing their seasons in style while others gear up for a busy summer of cricket and surf action.

Rugby League

Glory for Marist Brothers

The Northern Rivers Regional Rugby League season has ofcially wrapped up, with the Marist Brothers Rams sealing a fairytale fnish — ending a 22-year premiership drought by defeating the Murwillumbah Mustangs 20–12 in a gripping grand fnal at Crozier Field. In other divisions, Bilambil edged out Byron Bay 14–12 in a tight reserve grade contest, Mullumbimby claimed the Under-18s title 18–6

over Bilambil, and Tweed Seagulls took out the Ladies League Tag crown 12–10 against Marist Brothers.

The Northern United women’s tackle team also dominated their fnal, cruising to a convincing 44–6 victory — capping of a season of growth for women’s rugby league across the region.

Surf’s Up on the Coast

While league fans celebrated, Phillip Island Boardriders Club made waves of their own, clinching victory at Event 2 of the Australian Boardriders Battle Regional Series. The result puts them on track for the upcoming national Grand Final, where Northern Rivers clubs are expected to feature strongly in the NSW qualifying rounds later this month.

Local Golf and Community Sports

At Casino, the

Casino Social Golf Club crowned Colin McClymont as the monthly medal winner with a net score of 24, narrowly edging Bruce Yates on 29. The putting trophy went to R. Ruttley with 17 putts, while nearest-the-pins went to McClymont (8th, 10th & 12th), S. O’Connor (9th), Yates (14th), Vinny (15th & 18th), and G. Randall (16th). Next Sunday’s event, sponsored by Gumbo Pies Casino, will host visitors from the Mullumbimby Social Golf Club for a two-ball aggregate stableford.

What’s Next: Upcoming

Northern Rivers Sport

With rugby league now in the of-season, the focus shifts to summer sports.

l Cricket: Local competitions under Northern Rivers Region 5 resume this

month, with club and representative fxtures, including Junior Country Week preparations.

l Athletics: The Northern Rivers Secondary Sport calendar features the Beach Volleyball Gala Day at Evans Head Main Beach on October 28, drawing schools from across the region.

l Surf Lifesaving: Patrols return to Northern Rivers beaches as the surf lifesaving season begins, with earlyseason carnivals in Byron Bay and Lennox Head later in the month.

l Community Netball: Of-season trials are now underway across Lismore, Ballina, and Tweed, ahead of the

2026 season grading. From the paddock to the pitch, and from the surf to the green, the Northern Rivers sporting calendar remains as vibrant as ever. Whether it’s the roar of the crowd at Crozier Field or the splash of saltwater at Evans Head, local sport continues to unite communities across the region.

WEEKLY SPORTS RESULTS

Casino Social Golf Results – 5 October 2025

A strong feld turned out for the Casino Social Golf Club’s monthly medal competition on Sunday, with Colin McClymont claiming top honours in fne form.

McClymont not only took out the Monthly Medal but also won the Players Draw, fnishing with an impressive net score of 24. Runner-up was Bruce Yates on 29.

The Putting Trophy went to R. Ruttley, who needed just 17 putts to complete his round — a tidy efort on the greens.

Nearest to the Pin winners:

l 8th, 10th & 12th holes: C. McClymont

l 9th hole: S. O’Connor

l 14th hole: B. Yates

l 15th & 18th holes: Vinny

l 16th hole: G. Randall

Next Sunday’s event, proudly sponsored by Gumbo Pies Casino , will feature a visit from the Mullumbimby Social Golf Club for a two-ball aggregate Stableford over 18 holes.

Visitors are most welcome, with teeof times from 6:30 am to 7:30 am

Fast and the Curious: Touch Football Youth Championships Light Up Cofs Harbour

Jef Gibbs

Cofs Harbour has come alive this week as thousands of young athletes, families, and fans descend on the city for touch football’s biggest junior showcase — the DoorDash National Youth Championships (NYC).

The C.ex Cofs International Stadium precinct was buzzing from the opening whistle, with 125 teams competing across manicured felds in what has become the nation’s premier youth touch event.

City of Cofs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams said the tournament is delivering enormous benefts to the region.

“We’ve got over 6,000 people here — accommodation is full, restaurants are busy, and the weather is perfect,” Mayor Williams said.

“This brings an economic injection of more than $5 million, and our small businesses are very grateful.”

Running over four days, the competition coincides with the NSW school holidays, meaning many

families are expected to extend their stay beyond the games.

Touch Football Australia

CEO Marcus Ashcroft praised the city’s ongoing support.

“We’re proud to once again bring the National

Youth Championships to Cofs Harbour, which has become the home for touch football and our fagship events,” Mr Ashcroft said.

“The NYC continues to grow every year, giving young athletes from every

corner of the country a chance to shine on the national stage while reinforcing our partnership with the Mid North Coast region.”

This year’s tournament is the largest in its history, with eight boys and girls divisions ranging from under-12s to under-18s.

All Australian states and territories are represented, underscoring the sport’s national reach.

Last year’s NYC unearthed future stars, with many players earning selection for the Australian Emus squads at the 2025 Asia Pacifc Youth Touch Cup.

City of Cofs Harbour Planning and Communities

Acting Director Ian Fitzgibbon said the event highlights the city’s growing reputation as a regional sports hub.

“We have superb facilities, a lifestyle and natural environment that

visitors love, and excellent transport links,” Mr Fitzgibbon said. “Cofs truly has the total package for sports tourism.”

Local pride will also be on display, with the Northern Eagles — representing an area from Ballina to Taree and west to Gunnedah — felding strong squads. Among them is Cofs Harbour’s own Lara McMillan, lining up for the under-18 girls team. She will be joined by Ballina’s Issy Slater, who said the side was “well coached and eager for showtime.”

The 2025 National Youth Championships run from Wednesday to Saturday, October 1–4, at C.ex Cofs International Stadium and surrounding felds. Entry is free for spectators, and matches are being broadcast live on Kayo Sports in Australia, Sky Sport in New Zealand, and Sky Sport Next globally.

Phillip Island Boardriders Claim Home Victory at Australian Boardriders Battle Event 2

Phillip Island Boardriders Club have triumphed on home turf, taking frst place at Event 2 of the Australian Boardriders Battle Regional Series in a thrilling day of high-energy competition, camaraderie, and surf stoke.

A playful left-hand rip bowl set the stage for an action-packed event that saw nine Victorian clubs chasing a berth at the Australian Boardriders Battle Grand Final presented by NRMA Insurance . Despite gusty winds, the warm weather and buzzing beach crowd created a festival-like atmosphere as the state’s best club surfers battled it out.

After fercely contested heats, Torquay, Jan Juc, Peninsula , and Phillip Island Boardriders emerged as the fnal four. As the swell eased, competitors were forced to rely on smart wave selection and quick rotations to avoid time penalties — adding another layer of strategy to the fnal showdown.

Carl Wright led the charge for Phillip Island, producing a massive backhand snap to score a 7.00 and put his club in the driver’s seat. Peninsula’s Lucas Hickson responded with a sharp 6.33-point ride, but Phillip Island’s consistency proved unstoppable. Wright sealed the victory with a fnal 5.80-point ride, sending the home crowd into celebration mode.

Adding to the hometown glory, Lilian Bassed earned the Boost Mobile Wave of the Day Award , while Wright was named Celsius Overall Performer. The Jim Beam Team Spirit Award went to 13th Beach Boardriders for their sportsmanship and enthusiasm.

“It was really fun today,” said Bassed. “I was nervous but excited to be part of the team and

get a good wave.”

Wright added, “The surf got pretty tough in the afternoon, but it’s always great when club surfng brings everyone together. We missed the national fnal last year, so this win means a lot.”

Club President Jake Eisen praised the squad’s preparation: “We’ve been training and getting back to basics this season. It’s been awesome to see it pay of — the whole

team’s lifted.” Phillip Island, Peninsula, and Jan Juc Boardriders have now secured their spots at the Grand Final at Burleigh Heads, Queensland , set for March 7–8, 2026

Upcoming ABB Regional Qualifers (2025/26):

l WA – Trigg Point – Sept 13–14

l VIC – Phillip Island – Oct 5

l QLD – Sunshine Coast – Oct 11

l SA – Fleurieu Peninsula – Oct 18

l TAS – Scamander – Oct 25

l NSW South – Cronulla – Nov 1

l NSW Central – North Narrabeen – Nov 8

l NSW North – Cofs Harbour – Nov 15

Full details: www.australianboardridersbattle. com

AS CLEAR AS MUD

REBELS GO DOWN SWINGING

By Gary Nichols