The Northern Rivers Times Newspaper Edition 277

Clarence Valley Mayor dismisses parliamentary atack

By Tim Howard

Clarence Valley Mayor Ray Smith has dismissed a scathing NSW parliamentary speech attacking his council’s performance, refusing to address concerns about governance, transparency, and the future of his general manager.

In response to questions about issues raised by Greens MLC Dr Amanda Cohn — including workplace disputes, defamation threats against community groups, and the handling of caravan park evictions — Cr Smith said he would not comment on “historical” matters already debated by council.

He instead criticised what he called Dr Cohn’s “very unprofessional use of parliamentary privilege,” and revealed he is preparing a Mayoral Minute in response.

The Mayor’s stance comes as pressure intensifes on the council’s executive leadership, with leaked internal emails, NCAT intervention in the caravan park dispute, and staf unrest culminating in a NSW Industrial Relations Commission matter involving the United Services Union.

Community advocates say they have lost confdence in the organisation’s ability to act with accountability or transparency.

An email sent accidentally by Mayor Smith to Simon Chase, chair of the Clarence Valley Semi-Permanent Van Group, revealed that general manager Laura Black advised the mayor

on Code of Conduct complaints against herself and the Mayor, while describing Mr Chase’s inquiries as an “assault” and deliberately delaying responses.

Questions asked about the propriety of these internal discussions, selective engagement with the public, and the GM’s approach to transparency remain unanswered.

In 2023 Ms Black sent a concerns notice to community group Yamba CAN, only to deny the action, despite the existence of the notice and a followup document naming the council as the instigator.

She has also publicly accused Mr Chase — a senior Queensland police ofcer — of falsifying a document, without providing any evidence.

Observers say these actions, combined with ongoing governance failures, make her leadership increasingly tenuous, despite her retaining the current support of a majority of councillors. Sources indicate that rising internal tensions mean a single vote shift could immediately place her position in jeopardy.

Dr Amanda Cohn used her adjournment speech in NSW Parliament to outline a series of “systemic dysfunctions” at Clarence Valley Council.

She highlighted withheld information, delayed legal advice, the issuing of a concerns notice without councillor approval, and the termination of 136 long-term casual occupancy agreements.

She called for intervention by the Minister for Local Government and the Ofce of Local Government (OLG), arguing that internal processes can no longer be relied upon to ensure transparency, fairness, or community confdence.

Following Dr Cohn’s speech, Mr Chase described the council’s leadership as a “public relations disaster” and urged the Minister to appoint an independent administrator.

He criticised the council for refusing to investigate his Code of Conduct complaint, despite his legitimate standing as a semi-permanent resident advocating for vulnerable residents.

While the general manager retains support from most councillors, observers say her position

is politically fragile. Combined with parliamentary scrutiny, media questions, NCAT cases, and unsubstantiated allegations, her tenure faces mounting public and internal pressure.

For now, Mayor Smith’s strategy appears to be to ignore substantive questions and attack the messenger, leaving residents, advocates, and observers to ask: if the council cannot defend its actions, is it capable of accountable governance at all?

Dr Cohn’s adjournment speech can be read in full here: https://www. parliament.nsw.gov. au/Hansard/Pages/ HansardFull.aspx#/ DateDisplay/HANSARD1820781676-101674/ HANSARD-1820781676101724

More Parking for Tweed Valley Hospital as Construction Gets Underway

Robert Heyward

Work has ofcially begun on expanding car parking at Tweed Valley Hospital, providing much-needed relief for patients, visitors and staf. Local company Alder has been appointed to deliver the project, which will add 130 new free street-level parking spaces, boosting the site’s

total capacity to more than 1,300 spaces

The upgrade will include improved signage, line marking and enhanced parking management systems. Most of the new spaces will be built on the grassed area south of the existing multi-level car park and along Ring Road on the hospital’s northern boundary. Construction

will occur in stages to minimise disruption and is expected to be completed by the end of 2025

Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park said the expansion was essential to meet growing demand since the $723.3 million hospital opened in May 2024. “These works will boost capacity and improve access to

vital health services for the local community,” he said.

Minister for the North Coast Janelle Safn added that the additional free parking would improve the experience for patients, carers and staf.

Labor spokesperson for Tweed Emily Suvaal said the expansion showed

the Minns Government’s commitment to keeping parking free and publicly managed.

Northern NSW Local Health District Chief Executive Tracey Maisey said the project would make a real diference for everyone visiting the hospital and help maintain frst-class healthcare access across the region.

Good Samaritans walk among us

By Samantha Elley

A recent incident at Zeebras Café in Barker Street, Casino where a customer needed medical attention, highlighted the valuable role played by a number of people known as GoodSAM responders.

Named after the bible story of the Good Samaritan, where someone comes to the aid of another in trouble, GoodSAM responders are those on hand who may be nearby to a person in distress.

On the day of the incident at the café, GoodSAM responder, Paul Cowle, got an alert on his app when café staf called the ambulance.

“A girl who works at the Royal Hotel got the alert as well,” said Nate Cawley, another GoodSAM responder.

“We then just shared basic details and in four minutes there were fve GoodSAM responders who were able to help the customer while waiting for the ambulance.

“We don’t just turn up but are sent by the ambulance service.”

According to the GoodSAM website, more than 9,000 people every year experience an out-ofhospital cardiac arrest in NSW.

For every minute a person in cardiac arrest doesn’t receive chest compressions (CPR), their chances of survival fall by seven to 10%.

Both Paul and Nate joined GoodSAM as responders in 2023 and have attended 38 and 17 activations respectively.

“GoodSAM started in England and was picked up by the South Australian ambulance service, then Victoria and now New South Wales,” said Nate.

“It started with people experiencing cardiac arrests.

“You would then ring 000 which activates the ambulance service but they may be coming from Lismore or Kyogle.

“That’s when people who are registered with the

GoodSAM app and trained in CPR are alerted.

“The app also shows where Automated External Defbrillators (AEDs) are

located.”

When Paul and Nate started there were only fve GoodSAM responders in the Casino CBD area,

now there are around 15.

“While we are members of an emergency service, you don’t have to be, to be a GoodSAM responder,”

said Nate.

“You just need to be willing to do CPR if alerted.”

If GoodSAM responders are nearby when an alert goes of, they are able to start chest compressions or provide assistance to the person in need before the ambulance arrives.

They are also able to give support and a debriefng to staf or the general public as needed, as was the case with the incident at Zeebra’s.

Owner, Kathy ButcherPlim, had nothing but praise for the GoodSAM responders:

“You guys were there for us from the beginning right through till the end!” she posted on Facebook.

“You stayed with us, talked us through everything that happened and sat with us when we found out the sad news.”

If you are interested in becoming a GoodSAM responder visit www. ambulance.nsw.gov.au/ get-involved/goodsam and follow the prompts.

Grafton Brewery Reopens After Almost 30 Years

Jef Gibbs

The iconic Grafton Brewery is set to reopen its doors next week, almost three decades after it last poured a pint — marking a major revival of one of the Clarence Valley’s most cherished industrial landmarks.

Now trading as the Grafton Heritage Brewing Co., the reimagined venue blends history with modern craftsmanship. The family-friendly brewery features expansive open spaces that celebrate its industrial heritage, with 12 brewing tanks capable of producing up to 3,500 litres of beer per week

Visitors can look forward to 10 beers on tap, including their awardwinning Somervale Pale Ale and Brick Tower Lager, both brewed onsite.

A proud return for a local legend

Founder Rick Firth said the reopening on Thursday, October 30 , will be the culmination of years of work and a dream to revive the local landmark.

“The Grafton Brewery frst opened its doors in 1952, and now 73 years later, we’re reopening

it with a whole new approach,” Mr Firth said.

“We started this journey six years ago to bring the historic building back to life. To now brew beer and create a public space for locals and visitors to enjoy is something very special.”

Firth said the brewery’s rebirth represents more than just a new business — it’s a celebration of community spirit and local

heritage.

“There is nothing like this anywhere I know. It will be a great hangout for locals and a major drawcard for tourists to the area,” he added.

What’s on tap at the new brewery

The revamped venue ofers an open bar area, spacious outdoor mezzanine, booth seating, and a stylish VIP Red Room. A southerninspired food menu will complement the locally brewed beers,

and only Australianowned suppliers and independent producers will be featured on the drinks list.

In celebration of the Grafton Jacaranda Festival, the brewery will debut a special Jaca Juice beer, crafted exclusively for the event.

The Grafton Heritage Brewing Co. will open at 12pm on Thursday, October 30, with regular trading hours of:

l Wednesday: 12pm –9pm l Thursday & Friday:

12pm – 10pm

l Saturday: 11am – 10pm l Sunday: 11am – 8pm

The venue sits within the Brewhouse Village , already home to more than 70 tenants, a café, and over 230 workers, creating a vibrant creative and commercial hub in the heart of Grafton.

The return of the Grafton Brewery not only revives a piece of local history but also reafrms Grafton’s reputation as a destination for food, craft, and culture in the Northern Rivers region.

Mystery bird paralysis strikes again — this time, magpies

By Tim Howard

First it was the rainbow lorikeets. Now, it’s magpies.

Wildlife experts are warning that the mysterious paralysis syndrome that has long aficted lorikeets across northern NSW and southeast Queensland could have a troubling parallel in Australia’s most recognisable songbird.

A recent Sydney Morning Herald report revealed that magpies in suburbs of Perth and south West Australia are being found unable to fy, their legs and wings paralysed, and their trademark warble silenced.

Veterinarians and wildlife carers say the symptoms

resemble those of lorikeet paralysis syndrome (LPS) — a condition still bafing researchers after several years of study.

University of Sydney wildlife pathologist Professor David Phalen, who leads the LPS investigation, said the magpie cases suggest a broader environmental problem.

“These paralyses could be a canary in the coal mine,” he said. “Something in our landscape may be afecting multiple bird species — and we don’t yet know what it is.”

The pattern is eerily familiar. In late 2023 and 2024, northern NSW wildlife carers, including

Phalen said the most likely cause was an ingested toxin, possibly from decomposing fruit or a toxic plant that blooms during the warmer months.

The same seasonal link may now be appearing in magpies, with reports clustering in spring and early summer.

WIRES volunteers in the Clarence Valley, were inundated with paralysed lorikeets.

A pop-up triage centre at Livable in Grafton took in hundreds of sick birds, many unable to perch, swallow or fy.

At the time, Professor

Researchers have not ruled out a connection between the two syndromes. Both seem to coincide with fruiting and fowering cycles, and both appear in specifc coastal regions while sparing others.

“The distribution suggests there’s a particular environmental factor at work — possibly a toxin

that’s more common in some habitats than others,” Prof Phalen said.

Wildlife groups are urging the public to help by reporting sightings of afected birds and cleaning up potential food sources.

Collect fallen fruit and dispose of it in a covered bin.

Cover compost piles to stop birds accessing them.

Report observations through citizen science platforms such as iNaturalist or the University of Sydney’s lorikeet project page.

Meanwhile, as magpie swooping season reaches its peak across the Northern Rivers, experts say the paralysis cases are a

reminder that even our most familiar native birds are under environmental stress.

“Magpies are hardy, intelligent birds,” said a WIRES spokesperson.

“If something in their ecosystem is making them sick, that’s a warning sign we should take seriously.”

For now, the cause remains unknown — but the pattern is unmistakable. From lorikeets to magpies, Australia’s skies are sending a message that scientists are racing to decode.

If you fnd a sick or paralysed bird, contact WIRES on 1300 094 737 or a local wildlife rescue service.

Emerging North Coast writer recognised at Fresh Ink prize

By Tim Howard

Clarence Valley freelance editor and emerging author Carlie Slattery has been shortlisted for the prestigious Fresh Ink Emerging Writer Prize at the Newcastle Writers Festival.

While she did not win the top prize, the shortlist nod still marks a signifcant achievement for a regional writer.

The prize is open to unpublished writers living in regional NSW and is designed to help them take that next professional step.

The 2025 winner, revealed at the weekend, is Hunter region writer Jessie Ansons, who receives $5000 for professional development, a week-long residency at Varuna – The National Writers’ House, and publication of her entry

in the summer issue of Swell Magazine, thanks to the generosity of Newcastle wine label Elephant in the Room.

The other shortlisted writers — Ms Slattery, Shannon Benton, Monique Wallace, and Sylvia Wilczynski — each received $250, funded by the festival’s Patrons Program.

The prize was judged by writers Courtney Collins and Natasha Rai, with support from Elephant in the Room, Create NSW, Varuna, The National Writers’ House, and Swell Magazine.

Carlie said the winner “thoroughly deserved” the award.

She spoke with judge after the awards and said she was positive about her work.

“She was very

encouraging and positive and just urged me to keep going,” Carlie said.

The act of being shortlisted was something that gave Carlie confdence.

“As a writer you spend so much time alone with your ideas, not knowing if anyone will ever care about them,” she said.

“To have someone read my work and say it’s good enough to be shortlisted –that’s a nice pat on the back that I’m heading in the right direction.”

Slattery worked for several years in the newsroom of now defunct newspaper The Daily Examiner as a sub-editor and now does freelance editing.

Born in Port Macquarie and educated in Newcastle, she relocated to the Clarence Valley where she now lives and writes.

She is currently working on her frst novel, Glitterbomb, a comingof-age story set between the 1990s and today in a fctional North Coast town.

Carlie did not want to reveal much more about the work, which is unfnished and could change signifcantly before it’s complete.

“It’s not my story, but it’s a world I understand – growing up as a girl on the coast, and the things we absorbed without even realising it,” she said.

For regional writers especially, opportunities like the Fresh Ink prize are rare.

“We don’t always have the networks or access available in the cities,” she said. “I can put the nomination on my CV, and that helps with agents and publishers later.”

She also welcomes the broader shift in Australian publishing where more women and marginalised writers are getting platforms.

“It’s brilliant to see more diversity — more women, more queer writers, more

writers of colour. We just need more people to pick up their books.”

Slattery now balances her freelance editing workload, family life and writing time. Her goal: fnishing the manuscript and seeing if she can publish it.

Bangalow Community Rallies After Sudden Closure of Beloved Bowlo

Jef Gibbs

The Bangalow community has been left stunned following the sudden and unannounced closure of the Bangalow Bowlo , with locals arriving over the weekend to fnd the doors locked and a closure notice taped to the entrance.

For many, the shock runs deep. The Bowlo has long served as a cornerstone of the town’s social and sporting life, a place where friends gathered, local teams played, and generations connected over bowls, music and

meals. Yet, members say they received no communication or warning from Norths Collective — the Sydney-based parent organisation that took over management of the venue in 2021.

The closure has reignited debate over the controversial amalgamation vote held three years ago, when members narrowly agreed to merge with Norths Collective. The deal, which gave Norths control of the venue, was set out in a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) designed to protect the

Bowlo’s operations and ensure its continuity for at least ten years.

In light of the recent events, a new Bowlo Advocacy Group has formed — uniting a broad cross-section of locals, including both supporters and opponents of the original merger. Their shared goal: to restore the Bowlo to community operation and safeguard its future as a vital local institution.

Quotes from the Bowlo Advocacy Group

“Asren Pugh,

spokesperson for the group, said the closure had deeply afected the town.**

“Our group represents the full diversity of the Bowlo community — people from every side of the original amalgamation debate — all united in our determination to get our local Bowlo reopened and serving the community once again,” he said.

“Norths’ sudden closure has caused deep frustration and disappointment among members, local sporting clubs and the broader community. These decisions impact real

people and the social fabric of our town.”

Mr Pugh said the group believes the closure may have breached the terms of the MOU, and that the Advisory Committee will meet with Norths management on Wednesday to seek clarifcation.

“We expect those discussions to be transparent and constructive,” he said.

“We hope Norths engages openly with our community representatives and commits to returning the club to local hands, allowing for trading to

recommence as soon as possible.”

A community meeting is now being planned in the coming weeks, where residents will have the chance to share information, ask questions, and discuss possible pathways forward.

For many in Bangalow, the Bowlo represents more than a building — it’s a gathering place, a keeper of stories, and a refection of the town’s identity. Its closure has struck a chord, and the community’s response makes one thing clear: the fght for the Bowlo is far from over.

Vale Rex Kelly: Racing mourns a character

By Michael Beattie

Grafton racing is in mourning this week following the passing of one of the city’s best loved racing personalities in Rex Kelly.

Rex has been many things to Grafton racing for in excess of 50 years.

During the 1970s Rex was riding at the height of his powers, he had a reputation of being a very ferce competitor who would get the job done, whatever that job may have been.

In his riding career Rex rode around 1500 winners in a period where country racing was essentially a weekend-only sport, other than the big cup meetings.

In those years those meetings saw the best riders in the city almost flling the jockeys room making it a very difcult task for the locals to get a decent ride.

Rex is fondly remembered for being part of one of the biggest upsets in Australian Racing in 1977.

In 1977, Rex was

instrumental in causing one of the greatest upsets in Australian racing history.

Riding unheralded flly Mistress Anne for Cofs Harbour trainer Dudley Wilson, Rex led throughout to defeat the glamour colt Luskin Star on a bog track in the Northern Slipper Stakes 900m in Newcastle.

The Cofs Harbour pair combined again in the Golden Slipper Stakes at Rosehill but on this occasion were no match for the chestnut champion from Newcastle, who many believe was the greatest two-year-old of all time.

Unfortunately for Rex,

Mistress Anne went onto greater glory as a threeyear-old but in a diferent stable which robbed Rex of the opportunity of maintaining the association.

Rex retired from the saddle in the early 1980s but was not lost to the industry and was the long term track work supervisor at the CRJC he was also the ofcial starter for the NRRA for many years.

In 2012 Rex decided to resign from both positions to take up the position of stable foreman for his son David, who was training at the Gold Coast.

While Rex enjoyed the role and the stable had considerable success, the call of Grafton was too much and after a few years Rex headed back to his beloved Grafton and to the family home a stone’s throw from the main entrance to Grafton Racecourse.

Almost before his bags were unpacked, such was the respect he gained as a horseman, Rex was reappointed as the ofcial starter for the NRRA.

He held this position until Covid caused his retirement early in 2020. In 2023 Rex was awarded with Life Membership of the CRJC in recognition for his signifcant contribution to Grafton racing over many years

While Rex and I had our moments, especially in the stewards room in the early

years, I remember him a brilliant bush rider who knew how to get a dollar in the very tough years, he never gave an inch start and never expected it.

I have been lucky to have worked with some fne starters over the years but none were better than Rex.

I would like a dollar for every horse and or jockey

Rex saved from serious injury simply because of his ability to know what a wayward horse was about to do before it actually happened.

RIP Rex you may be gone, but you will never be forgotten especially by those who were fortunate enough to see you ply your many skills in person.

Nimbin Road Restoration to Strengthen Village Access

Jef Gibbs

Lismore City Council has announced the next stage of vital restoration works on Nimbin Road, targeting a section impacted by multiple landslips during past severe weather events. The project aims to secure long-term, reliable access for residents, visitors and businesses travelling between Lismore and Nimbin

Project Timeline and Work Hours

Construction will take place from Monday 27 October to Friday 12 December 2025, weather permitting. Works will run within Council’s standard operating hours — 6:30 am to 6:00 pm weekdays and 8:00 am to 1:00 pm Saturdays Council has cautioned that the schedule may shift depending on conditions, as safety and quality remain top priorities throughout the project.

Trafc and Access

Importantly, Nimbin Road will remain open to through trafc during the construction period. However, motorists should expect some temporary

trafc management.

At certain stages, the road may be reduced to a single lane, managed by temporary trafc lights and trained controllers

. Council urges drivers to allow extra travel time and obey all signage for the safety of workers and road users.

Managing Impacts on the Community

Heavy machinery will be in use throughout the works, which may generate short-term increases in noise, dust and vibration

. Crews will also carry out essential vegetation management, ensuring environmental impacts are minimised while maintaining safe sightlines and access for vehicles.

Lismore City Council says the project forms part of its ongoing Flood Restoration Portfolio,

supporting the long-term recovery of vital road infrastructure damaged by recent natural disasters. Council teams will be joined by specialist contractors experienced in slope stabilisation and drainage works.

Staying Informed

Residents are encouraged to stay up to date via Council’s digital channels.

l Trafc updates: LiveTrafc.com

l Project notifcations: lismore.nsw.gov.au/frpnotifcations

l Enquiries: Email council@lismore.nsw. gov.au

Council also provides regular updates across its Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube accounts. The works extend between coordinates -28.6246, 153.2179 and – 28.6266, 153.2163, near the approaches to Nimbin village.

Council thanked residents for their patience and cooperation as these essential repairs continue, reafrming its commitment to restoring safe, resilient and accessible routes across the Northern Rivers region

Pearl Bridge

Samantha Elley

Since she was three years old, Pearl Bridge has been in the garden, starting on trips in the buggy on her grandparents’ macadamia farm.

Now the Mullumbimby student has taken out the prestigious Australian Institute of Horticulture (AIH) Student of the Year award.

The 19-year-old has been studying a Horticulture Certifcate III at Wollongbar TAFE since the beginning of 2024 and will fnish it at the end of this year.

“I was kind of lost when I started,” she said.

“I started a Cert II…and then I just fell in love with plants, everything to do with it.

“So then I came to the Cert III.”

Pearl was nominated by her horticulture teacher Hugh Monk, who was only too pleased to put her name forward.

“Every now and then you come across a student that has that passion,” he said.

“I had her in Cert II before she enrolled in Cert III and right from the get go you could tell she had a passion, you could tell a light switched on, a bit of an ‘aha’ moment.

“From there she just grew.”

Hugh said it was an easy decision to nominate Pearl for the award.

“She was really thirsting for more knowledge,” he said.

“You could just tell she got it.”

Coupled with her apprenticeship at Birdie Byron Bay and working at Eden, also in Byron Bay, Pearl knows she has many choices in the horticulture world, once her studies are fnished.

“There are so many diferent avenues that I am not exactly sure if I’m thinking I want to go down the permaculture fower growing avenue,” she said.

“But then I’m like, garden design and there’s just too many so I’m still trying to fgure that one out.”

AIH president, Alan

Burnell said the industry awards highlight individuals and projects driving positive change in horticulture.

“Whether it’s young people starting out in the industry, like Pearl, or large-scale urban green

projects, AIH is proud to support those creating more sustainable, liveable environments,” he said.

“Pearl stood out not just for her passion and knowledge but for the potential we see in her to become a future leader

and a strong voice in horticulture.”

And for anyone thinking of going into the horticulture industry?

“Come to Wollongbar TAFE,” said Pearl.

“It is a beautiful campus with beautiful teachers

who are very passionate about what they want to do.

“Just try everything, you will fnd your little niche that you love.

“Being in the garden is so good for your mental health.”

Social Media Ban: How Parents Can Help Kids Stay Connected Safely

Jef Gibbs

As Australia prepares to introduce a nationwide social media ban for under-16s from December 10, many children are anxious about losing touch with their friends and daily online routines. The legislation requires major platforms — including TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and Reddit — to take reasonable steps to stop underage users from creating accounts.

While the move aims to protect children from harmful online content, experts say the real test will happen at home. According to Associate Professor Lesley-Anne Ey, a child safety and wellbeing researcher at the University of South Australia, parents will play a central role in helping kids adjust to life with fewer screens — and in keeping them socially connected in healthier ways.

“Many children and teens have grown up communicating through photos, emojis, flters and short videos. Apps like Snapchat and TikTok are part of their social identity,” Assoc Prof Ey explains. “When the ban kicks in, some kids will feel like they’re losing their social lifeline.”

She encourages parents to show empathy and maintain open,

age-appropriate conversations. “Invite questions, acknowledge their feelings, and brainstorm alternatives,” she says. “If they enjoy TikTok dances, maybe try Just Dance. If they want to chat, use safe group messaging apps or multiplayer games where they can connect securely.”

Assoc Prof Ey emphasises that

education and reassurance are key. Parents should discuss online safety, including how to protect personal information, behave respectfully, and think carefully before posting. “Once something is online, it’s permanent,” she warns. “Encourage kids to ask, ‘Would I say this to someone’s face?’ before they post.”

The new restrictions

come amid growing concerns about cyberbullying, sextortion, and online predators.

“This ban isn’t about overprotection — it’s a necessary safeguard,” she says. “Parents must educate themselves about the platforms their children use and maintain ongoing, non-judgmental discussions.”

Importantly, adults must also model healthy screen habits

Limiting personal phone use, especially during family time, can help set predictable routines and reinforce balance.

“Avoid excess screen time yourself,” says Assoc Prof Ey. “Create tech-free times at dinner or before bed. Show your kids how fun it can be to reconnect ofine — board games, family walks, or even bike rides after dinner.”

She believes the change could beneft families long-term. “The convenience of screens has taken over our lives,” she says. “Perhaps this is

our chance to wind back the clock and rebuild real connections — for our sake, and for our kids’ wellbeing.”

What Parents Can Do

Stay informed: Follow new trends and platforms to understand where kids might move next.

Educate on safety: Teach children to protect personal details and report uncomfortable online experiences.

Keep conversations open: Encourage honest chats about what they see and feel online.

Show empathy: Acknowledge their frustration and reassure them that safety comes frst.

Model balance:

Demonstrate healthy screen habits and establish tech-free family times.

Be consistent: Maintain predictable routines and limits.

Encourage ofine fun: Support sports, hobbies, and family activities that strengthen social bonds.

Diary of a Flood Survivor

I just want to take the opportunity in this column to boast about my younger son who, despite all odds, just recently passed all his exams to fnish his degree in accounting.

When the foods hit in 2022 he was in Year 12 and school captain at Evans River K-12.

Not only did he lose most of his belongings in the food, but his school became the evacuation point for food victims and classes were suspended during that time.

As school captain he had to represent his school at various events, including a trip to Government House

in Sydney to meet the NSW Governor.

All this while cleaning out our mud sodden house, rescuing what belongings weren’t water damaged and living at our friends’ house in Evans Head. It was a lot for a young man to deal with.

He passed his exams and made it into the university course at Southern Cross, while also landing a job as a trainee accountant with WCA Accounting in Lismore.

Since then, he has worked full-time and studied the equivalent of a full-time course to fnish his degree just before his

21st birthday.

His father and I could not be prouder of him, as he didn’t let adversity beat him.

No doubt there are many other young achievers out there and I would like to invite proud parents/ grandparents/aunts/uncles/ friends to feel free to send details of their battles through the food and what they have gone on to do.

I would love to feature the stories of other food survivors in this column.

My email address is samantha_elley@hotmail. com

Little steps.

Morning QantasLink Flights Boost Northern Rivers Connectivity

Jef Gibbs

Northern Rivers travellers can now enjoy greater convenience with the launch of new morning QantasLink fights from Ballina Byron Gateway Airport to Sydney. The expanded service, which began this week, caters especially to business travellers seeking same-day return options without the need to drive to Brisbane or the Gold Coast.

Operating six days a week, Monday to Saturday, the frst phase features a 7.45am departure from Ballina, arriving in Sydney just after 9am. The return service later that evening allows for a full day in the city before heading home.

From 24 November 2025, the schedule will expand further, introducing a second daily service departing at 11.20am. This will increase the total to 13 weekly fights, providing more fexibility for both business and leisure travellers, including improved connections to

international destinations such as Hong Kong, Tokyo and Dallas.

Ballina Shire Council

Mayor Sharon Cadwallader welcomed the move, describing it as “a terrifc boost for our region.” She added, “These new services ofer greater convenience and fexibility for locals while strengthening our economy and supporting tourism.”

A QantasLink spokesperson said the updated schedule was designed to make travel easier for Northern Rivers residents, noting that the added fights would allow for better connection times and same-day Sydney trips.

Airport Manager Julie Stewart said the Council

had worked closely with QantasLink to restore and enhance fight options.

“The timing allows for productive day trips, while cost-efective terminal parking ensures a smooth travel experience,” she said.

Ballina Byron Gateway Airport continues to be one of the busiest regional airports in NSW, welcoming nearly 630,000 passengers in 2024 With this new expansion, the airport is expected to further cement its reputation as the gateway to the Northern Rivers, serving communities from Tweed to Yamba.

Bookings for the new QantasLink services are now available at Qantas. com

Banora Point Tops

NSW Weather Risk List

Northern Rivers communities have once again been identifed among New South Wales’s most weather-impacted regions, with Banora

Point, Tweed Heads, and Tweed Heads West all ranking in the state’s top ten severe weather hotspots.

New data from leading insurer AAMI revealed Banora Point took the top spot, followed closely by Tweed Heads (7th) and

Tweed Heads West (10th), based on thousands of natural disaster claims between July 2022 and June 2025. The region was hit hard by Cyclone Alfred in March 2025, which drove a surge in cyclonerelated claims across the Tweed Coast.

AAMI meteorologist Andrew Bufalino warned Northern Rivers residents to brace for another wet and storm-active season, with forecasts pointing to La Niña-infuenced rainfall and increased food potential. Authorities are urging

Sesquicentenary

locals to take preventative measures — clearing gutters, trimming trees, and securing outdoor items — to protect homes and reduce insurance risks.

As AAMI’s Josh Kelland put it, “The weather doesn’t have a plan — but you can.”

New Kayak Storage Shed for Byron Bay’s Clarkes Beach

Creative

Construction is underway on a new kayak storage shed at Clarkes Beach, positioned between the two existing kayak container sites. The project replaces outdated shipping containers and trailers used by the area’s two licensed kayak tour operators.

Malcolm Robertson, Manager of Open Spaces and Facilities, said the new shed will enhance the foreshore’s appearance and serve as a publicly owned asset. “The current set-up takes away from the Byron Bay foreshore area, so this project will deliver major improvements,” he said.

Designed to blend with the natural surroundings, the shed will provide modern storage facilities while supporting thousands of locals and visitors who enjoy kayak tours each year. Construction is expected to fnish by late November, after which the old structures will be dismantled, and the site rehabilitated into public open space.

Northern Rivers Students Excel in Maths Competition

Northern Rivers students have proven their problem-solving prowess in the 2025 Newcastle Permanent Primary School Mathematics Competition. Nearly 17,000 students from over 350 schools took part in the event’s 45th year. South Grafton Public School’s Hayden Thomson and Sathya Sai Primary School’s Jj Barber each received District Awards for their achievements in the Year 6 and Year 5 divisions respectively.

Newcastle Permanent Regional Manager Kayla Weller congratulated the winners, highlighting a strong rise in participation statewide. “We’re proud to support a competition that encourages resilience, curiosity and critical thinking in mathematics,” she said.

Since its inception in 1981, more than half a million students have taken part in the competition, now recognised as one of Australia’s largest and longest-running maths challenges.

Connecting to the Heart – Celebrating Rural Wom

by Janelle Saffin MP Member for Lismore

It was wonderful to have the NSW Rural Women’s Gathering held in the Northern Rivers this year. It is an annual celebration of strength, creativity and leadership among women from across regional, rural and remote New South Wales.

This year’s event with the theme, Connect to the Heart, was held in Lismore over two days and featured a program of fascinating speakers, diverse workshops, social functions and local tours.

The Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty sent a message highlighting the work of the Rural Women’s Network which supports the event. It was wonderful to have the Minister for Women, Jodie Harrison attend. She told the gathering that while the foods of 2022 left a lasting mark on the Lismore they showed the

extraordinary role women played in our recovery.

Research from the University of Newcastle confrmed what many of us witnessed — women bore the brunt of the impact and then led much of the recovery efort.

Women’s Safety Commissioner Dr Hannah Tonkin highlighted the particular challenges faced by rural women who need to fee violence or access services, and said we all have a role in challenging attitudes that normalise violence.

Digital safety advocate and educator Madeleine West, opened our eyes to the dangers of cyberbullying, sextortion and online predatory behaviour, and urged everyone to stay informed in how to keep our families safe online.

Shanna Whan AM from Sober in the Country,

NSW Women's Safety Commissioner Dr Hannah Tonkin and NSW Minister for Women, the Hon. Jodie Harrison at the NSW Rural Women's Gathering in Lismore

shared honest refections on the pressures and harm caused by alcohol in rural communities — and simple ways we can all support those who want to say no to a drink. Congratulations as well to all who made this a successful event – the entertaining MC Mel Bampton, all the workshop facilitators, Lismore City Council and the hardworking organising committee who made the gathering possible.

Community Invited to Shape Tweed’s Draft Development Control Plan 2025

Robert Heyward

Tweed Shire Council is inviting residents to have their say on the Draft Development Control Plan (DCP) 2025, the most signifcant update since the plan was frst developed in 2008.

Now on public exhibition, the updated DCP outlines the rules and guidelines for development across the Tweed. It aims to ensure future growth remains sustainable, locally appropriate, and consistent with community values

The new draft simplifes the document, introduces clearer controls, and adds new features that better refect community and environmental needs.

Tweed Mayor Chris Cherry said the updated plan is an important step in shaping the shire’s future and encouraged locals to share their feedback.

“Draft plans like these need input from the community to ensure they provide the guidance that makes sense for everyone,” Cr Cherry said.

We

on the updated draft Development Control Plan.

“We’ve worked hard to make the DCP easier to use and more responsive to challenges like climate change and housing diversity. There’s still scope for improvement, and we want to hear those ideas.”

Cr Cherry said she was pleased to see the update refect the character of Tweed’s towns and villages, while protecting the environment and ensuring safer development in food-prone areas.

The Draft DCP 2025 groups content for easier navigation and will gradually replace locality plans with new character statements. It also introduces clearer

Better by Bike Named Finalist in NSW Tourism Awards 2025

Local eco-tourism

business Better by Bike has been announced as a fnalist in the 2025 NSW Tourism Awards, recognised among 125 fnalists selected from a record 230 nominations across 30 categories statewide. Operating from Murwillumbah Railway Station and Byron Bay’s Arts & Industrial Estate, Better by Bike has served over 12,000 riders since launching in 2023 alongside the opening of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail.

controls for residential development, covering site analysis, landscaping, small-lot housing, detached studios, and rural outbuildings.

Other major updates include:

• A new chapter on Social Impact Assessments

• Updated coastal hazard controls

• Removal of Section A6: Child Care Centres (now assessed under state planning policy)

• Signifcant changes to Section A3 –Development of Flood Liable Land, supported by an Interim Flood Planning Levels Policy

The new food policy uses recent data and improved mapping to set minimum building heights and protect future developments from food and climate risks. Once adopted, these measures will become a permanent part of the DCP. Residents can view the plan and provide feedback until 4pm, Wednesday 3 December 2025, at: Development Control Plan draft improvements | Your Say Tweed

“Being named a fnalist is an incredible honour that refects our team’s dedication to creating memorable, sustainable experiences,” said Campbell Shepherd, Owner and Operator of Better by Bike. “Every ride we provide connects people with this beautiful region, and this recognition inspires us to keep spreading joy, supporting local businesses, and proving that sustainable tourism can be fun, meaningful, and impactful.”

Better by Bike offers premium e-bike hire with 70+ Boschpowered bikes, guided tours, self-guided experiences, and luxury van transfers across the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, Tweed Coast, and Byron Bay. The business also operates workshop services in both locations, provides free bike delivery to Byron Bay accommodation, and offers shuttle transfers for trail access.

the community through free vouchers for local fundraisers, discounted rates for seniors and clubs, and bike maintenance workshops.

Since establishing, Better by Bike has become known for its “Cycle of Positivity” approach—personalized service delivered by locally-trained staff who match customers with appropriate equipment and tailored trail recommendations. The business has also contributed to

“This recognition celebrates not just our team, but the amazing community that has welcomed us,” added Shepherd. “As the Northern Rivers Rail Trail continues to grow, we’re committed to promoting this incredible region, reducing traffc congestion through sustainable transport, and helping every rider experience their ‘Best Day Ever.’”

The 2025 NSW Tourism Awards winners will be announced at the NSW Tourism Gala on Thursday, 27 November 2025 in Sydney.

The Gathering Crisis: December 1974 – November 10, 1975

By Tim Howard

When Cyclone Tracy smashed into Darwin on Christmas Eve 1974, fattening a city and displacing its people, it also hit a government already under pressure.

The Whitlam Government, which had swept to power in 1972 after 23 years of conservative rule, was in the midst of implementing one of the most ambitious reform programs in Australian history.

Health, education, welfare, culture, the law — everything was changing, and changing fast.

But big transformations create big enemies, and as the Whitlam Cabinet focused on the national tragedy in the North, forces were gathering that would soon test the very limits of Australian democracy.

In the aftermath of Tracy, the government demonstrated its capacity for swift action. Military aircraft evacuated thousands. Reconstruction was planned at a scale unseen since World War II.

But Whitlam’s decision to return to his overseas trip two days after his return, was a serious misjudgement.

The Opposition painted Whitlam’s decision to leave the fattened city so quickly as selfsh and heartless.

More widely the political dividends of decisive leadership were already being overshadowed by economic turbulence.

The global oil shock had pushed infation sharply upward. Unemployment was rising. To some voters — and to the Opposition — the pace and cost of Whitlam’s reforms began to look reckless.

Meanwhile, internal cracks widened.

The relationship between Whitlam and his deputy, Jim Cairns, had soured. Cairns, once a gifted communicator and antiwar icon, struggled under the burdens of high ofce.

The Loans Afair — a complex and poorly executed attempt to secure foreign fnancing for longterm national development — became the lever the

Opposition needed. What was, at its core, a matter of administrative misjudgment was spun as evidence of a government out of control, dabbling in shady, quasi-legal schemes.

Rex Connor, the minister driving the loans plan, clung to a vision of Australian resource independence, but his persistence after being explicitly barred from further negotiations gave Malcolm Fraser and Opposition tactician Reg “The Toe Cutter” Withers a gift. They would build an entire campaign of destabilisation around it. Through 1975, the scandals multiplied — and were multiplied again in the headlines. The Morosi afair damaged Cairns beyond repair and confrmed for many that the government’s discipline had slipped.

Whitlam responded decisively: Cairns was dismissed, Connor soon followed. In June, Whitlam reshufed the Ministry and placed the gifted Bill Hayden in Treasury, signalling a shift toward economic management and political recovery.

But the Opposition had already chosen a path from which they would not turn back. The Senate was their weapon. For decades, the upper house had followed the convention that a government securing

continued to take efect. The sky was not falling — unless one listened to Opposition rhetoric or newspaper editorials that increasingly resembled political manifestos.

The by-election loss of Bass in June delivered an electoral shock that emboldened Fraser further.

His strategy shifted from contesting policy to undermining legitimacy. The aim was now to create not just anger, but a sense of ungovernability.

supply in the House of Representatives must be allowed to govern. Fraser and Withers decided that convention no longer suited their purposes.

They would use the Senate to block the Budget. They would force the government to the polls. And they would win.

The arithmetic in the Senate, however, was not in their favour after the 1974 result, but the death in June of Queensland Senator Bertie Milliner opened the door for the conservatives.

Queensland Premier Joh Bjelke-Petersen ignored the ALP’s choice instead nominating an ALP member with a strong antipathy to the Whitlam Government, Albert Field. It was a blatant violation of the convention that Senate vacancies should follow the lead of the party of the departing member.

Labor immediately ejected Field from the party but his eligibility was challenged in the High Court, crucially altering the balance of power.

The Opposition could now obstruct supply. Whitlam was furious. A rogue state premier had disrupted the national balance. And yet, despite the procedural warfare, the government was governing. Hayden was stabilising the budget.

Major legislative reforms

So the pressure rose. Funds tightened. The media narrative hardened. And in October 1975, the Senate blocked supply. This was the real crisis — but it was an engineered one. The economic issues were international.

The scandals were infated. The denial of supply was a political choice. Yet Fraser presented his tactics as constitutional necessity and moral rescue.

Whitlam refused to give in. He had been elected — twice — and he would not call an election demanded by an unelected chamber.

He believed that the conventions protecting responsible government would hold. He believed the Governor-General, Sir John Kerr, would hold them too.

That faith would prove his undoing.

Kerr, appointed by Whitlam and publicly loyal, had grown increasingly anxious.

He feared that if he did not act, Whitlam might advise the Queen to dismiss him frst — a fear stoked through quiet conversations Fraser had encouraged.

Kerr was meeting privately with the Chief Justice, Sir Garfeld Barwick, a man whose antipathy toward Whitlam was no secret.

Advice fowed behind closed doors. Confdence eroded in silence.

The Cabinet, meanwhile, continued asserting that time and political pressure would break the Senate blockade.

There were even signs the Opposition’s discipline might crack.

As the impasse dragged on, some Coalition

senators were uneasy with the brinkmanship.

Any wavering could have forced Fraser to retreat.

Behind every Labor move — including creative budgeting strategies to extend available funds — Fraser and Withers saw further justifcation for their narrative of mismanagement.

And so the situation tightened, day by day, until only a snap in the machinery of government could break it.

By early November, the brink was truly reached — but it was a brink only a handful of people understood.

Most Australians, even those following the news closely, believed the deadlock would be resolved by negotiation or public pressure.

Their political system had always managed to

correct itself before. November 10 was a Monday. Parliament sat. Speeches were made. Negotiations continued. Whitlam prepared for another day of political combat perhaps even calling a half-Senate election in a bid to break the parliamentary impasse. Fraser prepared for the fnal act of tactical pressure. Kerr prepared, quietly and privately, for something far more drastic.

As the country went to sleep on the night of November 10, 1975, perhaps only two people in Australia knew what would unfold the next day — Sir John Kerr and Malcolm Fraser.

Everyone else — including the elected Government of Australia — believed democracy would hold. They were wrong.

2026 Kindergarten ROUS PUBLIC SCHOOL Orientation Program

Rous Public School invites students starting school in 2026 to attend our Kindergarten Orientation program to meet our amazing teachers and staff and spend time in our beautiful learning spaces.

Parent Information sessions will run in conjunction with classroom activities for the students on these dates.

“Leemo has views on just about anything”

‘Weighty

The Old Woman spoke: ‘Leems, I’ve observed you’re lookin a trife ’PLUMP’ which surprises me not at all ‘cos your 24 hour daily routine consists primarily of sleeping & eating in a continuous rotation apart from waking at 3am and knocking as many things of shelves as you can & pushing them around our foors

UNTIL I make you treats. AND, don’t assign blame to your Winter coat for your plump look Leems ‘cos I’ve spent hours brushing it of you!

(‘Mum Jane’ talks such rubbish at times it amazes me she hasn’t, at HER age, yet been arrested for stupidity!) I naturally ignore her comments. (It’s ‘Leemo Cat’ writing) Ooooh, I just simply HAD to respond to her ofensive diatribe none the less. ‘Well Mum, in my view, YOU’RE looking too skinny of late, and ‘cos your hair has gone white (GROSS!) you look like a walking maize broom’ with 2 handles…your legs.’ Ooooh CRIKEY! She’s switched to her mega sulky mode. I promptly made a cup of tea, ginger bikkies & slipped a Bex Powder in the tea: I informed her I’D prepare things for dinner so she could relax. After I’d peeled the spuds & pumpkin, shelled the peas, plucked a chook, made yummy stufng & applied tasty herbs it seems she had recovered a trife ‘cos

she spoke. ‘Leems, my boy, thank you. I would however, like to address your comments. Do come sit by me.’ (Ooooh, scarey!) ‘Just listen PLEASE: my hair has gone white instead of grey due to any number of factors in my life starting from the day I was born. I would love to have grey hair now I’m old but it’s not to be. I have a complete lack of melanin which contributes to it turning white. People with grey hair have a only a reduced level of melanin whereas I have NONE! To compound things, ‘cos I wanted always to have RED hair I used hair colours for years which can also impact what you now see. My siblings all either had beautiful black or red hair but I did NOT! (I totally reckon Mum was adopted but am not uttering a WORD!)

My hair was boring light crappy ‘mouse brown’ and remained so until I discovered hair colouring. So, ‘Leems’ that’s the story – I’m stuck with white hair and YOU my precious boy, must appreciate this and be more sensititve about what you say to me about my ‘Twilight Years’ appearance.

GOTTIT?’ As for my weight? Well, it’s the same it has been for some years. Like your furry coat Leems, I’ve shed & washed my Winter clothes & packed them all away. Therefore Leems, we’ll make a pact with hand/paw shake plus hugs whilst saying ‘we will never be mean to each other again’. Whaddya reckon? And hence it came to pass: many hugs & ‘suck-up’ Terms of Endearment. CRIKEY! Mum & I both spoke at the same time…’Leems, are you gonna clean up the feather mess you’ve made in the kitchen?’ I YELLED back ‘Mum, are you gonna make the gravy?’ Nitey with chuckles. 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.

THANKS from ‘MUM JANE’

‘It’s ‘Mum Jane’ writing... mother of ‘Leemo Cat’ who, whether “I” like it or not, writes a, well, ‘kinda’ story for Sharon & Jef’s paper every week. He frst hinted to me he had ‘tails’ to tell some 5.5yrs ago so I eventually allowed him to contact Sharon & Jef & send them a couple. They liked them which is how ‘Leemo’s View’ came into being. I enjoy reading the lovely reader letters to ‘Leems & the Buddies’ even though at times he ‘lets the cat out of the basket’ in his revelations about living with a ‘CRABBY ELDERLY WOMAN’. Aaargh! Thank you to everyone & specially Sharon & Jef who allowed ‘Leemo’s View’ to be part of their wonderful LOCAL newspaper. Nitey, Mum Jane.

Council Must Be Held Accountable

I’ve had enough of the spin coming out of Clarence Valley Council. Simon Chase is spot on—if the GM can’t prove her claim,

she needs to retract it and apologise. Ratepayers deserve honesty, not more stonewalling. We’re footing the legal bills for their mess, and it’s disgraceful. Keep digging, Mr Chase—many of us stand right behind you.

B. McKinnon, Grafton

Tired of the Secrets and Legal Bills

When council’s legal costs jump from half a million to over a million in a year, something’s badly wrong. Instead of suing each other, maybe focus on fxing potholes and broken parks. We can’t aford egos running the place.

D. Hughes, Maclean

Accountability Starts at the Top

If a general manager accuses a citizen of falsifying a document, the burden is on the accuser to show proof quickly and clearly. The “Wrecking Ball” email saga isn’t just ofce gossip — it goes to the heart of trust in Clarence Valley Council. Ratepayers seeing legal costs soar aren’t in the mood for spin or stonewalling. Publish the evidence or apologise and move on. Sunlight is cheap; secrecy is expensive.

— R. McKenzie, Grafton

Chase Is Right to Demand Proof

Good on Simon Chase for calling “put up or shut up.” You don’t get to smear someone publicly and then go quiet. Convert to PDF, redact an address — that’s standard practice, not forgery. I’m sick of the suggestion that residents should just cop it. If council leaders can’t substantiate claims, they should retract them and rebuild trust.

— J. O’Neill, Iluka

Council’s Culture Feels Of

The part that foored me was councillors waving of a Code of Conduct referral because it was “operational.” Since when do we grade our own homework? If the rules say send it external, send it external. Stop making residents feel like they’re yelling into a void.

— M. Taylor, Yamba

Legal Bills Tell the Story

More than doubling legal expenses from last year? That tells me we’ve swapped community engagement for courtroom correspondence. Councils aren’t meant to be law frms. Settle issues early, talk to people, publish

timelines, and stop playing brinkmanship with public money.

— K. Houghton, Wooli

Not Buying the “Nothing to See Here”

When a mayor says a councillor’s notice has been “responded to,” but the public can’t see how, it fuels suspicion. Release the emails (with necessary redactions), dates and all. We don’t need another soap opera; we need a clear, chronological record.

— L. Fraser, Brooms Head

Enough Grandstanding, Both Sides

I’m over the posturing — from the GM and from Mr Chase. Take it to an independent reviewer, publish the fndings, and get back to roads, parks and rates. The Clarence has real problems; let’s spend leadership capital on those.

— P. Carmichael, Maclean

Transparency Isn’t Hostility

Every time residents push for transparency, someone in power labels it “hostile.” It’s not. It’s civic housekeeping. Make a habit of proactive disclosure and these fareups won’t escalate.

— D. Nguyen, Angourie

A Community, Not a Battlefeld

This whole episode is driving wedges where we need bridges. A mediated statement of facts, jointly signed, could cool the temperature. We did it after the foods with great efect — do it here.

— S. Robards, Lawrence

Put the Wrecking Ball Away

Good on Tim Howard and NRT for exposing that email nonsense. It shows how detached some of these managers are from reality. Making jokes about demolishing caravans when residents are fghting eviction? That’s beyond tone-deaf.

—K. Riley, Yamba

Festival Deserves Better Support

I was disappointed council refused the extra money for the Jacaranda Festival. It’s one of the few things that puts Grafton on the map. A measly $8900 for trafc control is nothing compared to the economic boost it brings. Volunteers shouldn’t be punished for

keeping tradition alive. M. Barton, South Grafton

The Wobbly Diva Wins Again

That raspberry jelly recipe had me laughing out loud. Tried it—tilted glasses and all—and my husband thought I’d done a culinary miracle. Whoever writes those cooking pages deserves a raise!

— K. Loftus, Evans Head

Chase for Mayor, Anyone? Every time I read about Simon Chase, I think— fnally, someone with guts. If he runs in 2028, I’ll be the frst to vote for him. We need truth-tellers, not career bureaucrats hiding behind “operational matters.”

— L. Watson, Lawrence

Council Circus Makes Us Laughable Clarence Valley has become the punchline of every local government joke. Emails, threats, denials—it’s embarrassing. Maybe we need a full ICAC inquiry just to clean house once and for all.

—H. Weller, Ulmarra

Lismore’s Cabinet Comeback a Symbol of Hope

The return of the Hannah Cabinet brought tears to my eyes. After everything Lismore’s been through, seeing such craftsmanship back home means a lot. Thank you Geof Hannah and team for restoring more than wood—you’re restoring pride.

S. Kearney, Lismore

The Loaf That Saved Dinner—Too Right! That meatloaf recipe is pure gold. Even my kids ate it without complaint, and that’s saying something. More of that, please.

—F. Newman, Lismore Heights

Independent and Fearless

The big dailies could learn from you. NRT’s fearless reporting on council issues shows what true local journalism should be. Thank you for not backing down.

T. Kelly, Evans Head

Lake Ainsworth Shut Down Again?

How many times must we read “toxic algae” before Ballina Council sorts out the drainage? It’s our main swimming spot and it’s closed half the year. Fix the cause instead of just posting red-alert signs.

—J. Douglas, Lennox Head

Safety First at the Lake Glad Council acted fast on Lake Ainsworth. No one wants sick kids or poisoned dogs. Sometimes closing it is the only responsible choice.

C. Hume, Ballina

Overnight Campers Not Criminals

Good to see council recognise some campers are homeless, not hooligans. Let’s help them instead of just slapping fnes. Trail cameras won’t solve housing shortages.

—B. Rowe, Yamba

Clamp Down on the Van Dwellers

Wooli’s been overrun with vans ignoring signs. I’m glad council’s stepping up enforcement. Locals shouldn’t wake to rubbish piles and makeshift toilets. Enough’s enough.

E. Paterson, Wooli

Local Businesses Need Clear, Timely Updates Tourism operators around Lennox rely on real-time info. Please commit to daily updates when a Red Alert is active. A simple timestamped web page and pinned socials would save a lot of phone calls and cancellations.

— N. Stirling, Byron Bay

Trail Cameras? Use Them Smartly

I’m glad Clarence Valley will trial relocatable cameras for overnight camping enforcement along the coast. Post the signage, deter the worst behaviour, and collect evidence without putting rangers at risk at 2am. Feels like a sensible middle path.

— W. Harper, Minnie Water

The Chef with a Saucy Soul – I am in love I just have to say it — whoever writes those

hilarious, heartfelt recipe pages deserves a standing ovation and a glass of red on the house. Every week, I open The Northern Rivers Times and head straight to that column before even glancing at the headlines. It’s not just about food — it’s about feeling.

There’s something deeply human in the way he writes, as if he’s inviting us into his kitchen, handing us a wooden spoon, and telling us about a longlost love while the onions sizzle. His recipes aren’t just “add salt and stir” — they’re stories. They’re warm, mischievous, and strangely comforting. I’d swear the man’s half poet, half cook, and entirely hopeless romantic.

He has this knack for turning an ordinary dish into a cheeky love letter — to good food, good company, and maybe a few ghosts from dinners past. You can almost hear the clink of glasses and the laughter echoing of tiled walls. I can’t decide if I want to eat his meals or just listen to him talk while he cooks.

Whoever he is, keep him fed, keep him writing, and please — tell us his name! The Northern Rivers hasn’t had a storyteller like this since Leemo frst wandered onto the page.

— M. Hadley, Bangalow

Jacaranda Committee

Deserved the $8,900 Council’s position felt penny-wise, pound-foolish. A volunteer-run 91-year icon asked for a one-of trafc management topup. The festival brings in millions and pride you can’t price. Back them this year; rewrite policy for next year.

— J. McPhee, Grafton

Cooking Page Was a Hoot (and Helpful) The Raspberry Jelly “wobbly diva” and that shameless meatloaf? Hysterical — and the tips actually work. This is the home-cook voice of the Northern Rivers: practical, cheeky, and proudly unfancy. More of this, please (and more thrifty swaps).

— S. Rowe, Beaudesert

Sport Pages Hit the Sweet Spot

Loved the Cherry Street Croquet roundup and Harwood’s cricket demolition — crisp, local, and names spelled right. Community sport deserves as much ink as council brawls; it’s where most of us actually meet. Keep it coming.

— M. Doyle, Evans Head

Final Word on “Wrecking Ball”

Whether the email went once or twice, the reaction shows a culture gap. Staf jokes about demolishing caravans while real residents fear eviction?

That’s empathy failure. Leadership training, please — and maybe a moratorium on clever internal “banter.”

— K. Bennett, Woombah

“Chase Has Earned Respect”

Simon Chase showed courage calling out nonsense. You don’t threaten legal action unless you’re sure of your ground. His quote — “People in the Clarence are sick of the spin” — could be our regional motto right now. Hats of to The Northern Rivers Times for refusing to retract under pressure. That’s journalism worth paying for.

— T. Andrews, Yamba

“Council Spin Wrecked by Facts”

The Chase story sums

up what too many locals feel — endless spin instead of straight answers. When a general manager publicly accuses someone of falsifying evidence, she’d better have proof. Good on Simon Chase and Tim Howard for keeping receipts. Transparency isn’t optional when you’re spending over a million bucks on lawyers. Keep shining the torch, Times — you’re doing what the others won’t.

— R. Doyle, Grafton

“Leemo and the Teardrop Tale”

Pure joy! I nearly spat my tea at the image of Leemo parked beside the Lismore Square elevator. It’s comic gold and still sneaks in warmth about ageing, companionship, and home. Whoever edits Leemo’s adventures knows timing and tone perfectly. More please — and maybe a photo of the real ‘Kooka’?

— S. Jarrett, Lismore

“Raspberry Jelly Royalty” Whoever pens those recipes has the wit of a stand-up comic and the instincts of a proper cook. I followed the jelly instructions — tilted glasses and all — and it looked like something of MasterChef. The line about “rename it Deconstructed Elixir” killed me. Long live the Wobbly Diva!

— B. Hughes, Woolgoolga

“Mum Jane Needs a Holiday, Not a Caravan” Leemo’s columns just get better. The dialogue crackles, and the thought of a cat negotiating caravan logistics is absurd in the best way. Behind the laughs, though, there’s afection and recognition — caring for ageing parents with humour intact. Keep it coming; we need the giggles as much as the news.

— E. Norton, Alstonville

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.

Straight from the horse’s mouth Samantha’s Book

Title: Black Beauty

Author: Anna Sewell

Price: $11.50

Distributor: Booktopia

Diving back into the depths of the classics today and this is one I think all animal lovers should read.

And possibly those who don’t like animals should get into it too and learn how living creatures should be treated.

This is because the story is told from the point of view of Black Beauty the horse.

He enjoys the start of a lovely life but is then sold to some owners who treat him cruelly.

As the reader we get to understand what Black Beauty looks for in a good owner and how he feels when he doesn’t have someone to care for him properly.

Council Urges Home-Based Food Businesses to Get the Right Permits Rise in ‘Dark Kitchens’ Across the Tweed

By Robert Heyward

Tweed Shire Council

is reminding residents who prepare and sell food from their homes that they must notify Council, following a rise in unregistered ‘dark kitchens’ operating across the region.

Dark kitchens, also known as ghost or cloud kitchens, typically operate out of sight from customers or regulators. Many trade from private homes or industrial sites and rely on social media and food delivery apps to reach customers — often without inspection or oversight.

Council’s Environmental Health Program Leader, Marcela Lopez, said ofcers are available to help home-based

businesses meet food safety standards and understand their legal obligations.

“We recognise the excitement of running a food business in the Tweed,” Ms Lopez said.

Lismore

“But it’s essential that food safety and regulatory standards apply equally to home kitchens and traditional restaurants.

If you’re preparing food for sale, you need to be registered.”

She warned that some unregistered businesses may not be handling food safely.

“Unsafe food handling can cause serious illness. Food poisoning can be deadly, and consumers have a right to eat food prepared in a clean, approved environment.”

Under NSW law, anyone selling food — whether from home, online, or via pop-up events — must notify their local council before trading. Councils regulate retail food businesses, while wholesalers or producers who sell to other businesses must register with the NSW Food Authority Residents can fnd guidance and notifcation forms at tweed.nsw.gov. au/food-businesses or by calling (02) 6670 2400

City Council moves early to secure future of regional library service

Jef Gibbs

He is a beautiful creature with a fne black coat (hence his name), a white foot and silver star on his forehead.

Will he fnd happiness in a new home with an owner who truly cares for him?

Classed as a children’s book, there is no doubt adults will enjoy the adventures of Black Beauty.

The author, Anna Sewell, was born in 1820 in Norfolk, England and was crippled at a young age.

As someone who couldn’t easily get around, she depended on horse-drawn carriages that allowed a small amount of independence.

Her mother wrote many books and Anna edited the texts, helping train her for the one and only book she wrote herself.

Black Beauty was written in the last decade of her life and published in 1877.

You can buy your copy of Black Beauty at www.booktopia.com.au

Lismore City Council has taken proactive steps to safeguard the future of the Richmond Tweed Regional Library (RTRL), formally resolving to remain as the Executive (Administering) Council beyond June 2027.

The resolution, passed at last night’s council meeting, ensures Lismore will continue to play a leadership role under a refned Deed of Agreement designed to strengthen governance, risk management and fnancial performance

. Other member councils have also been invited to express their interest in the executive role.

Local accountability and forward planning

A key part of the decision involves transferring branch library staf to their respective local councils by June 2027. This change will embed local accountability for staf, safety and day-to-day operations while relieving Lismore Council of responsibility for branches

outside its area.

The move follows an independent review commissioned earlier this year by the four member councils — Lismore, Ballina, Byron and Tweed — which confrmed that while the cooperative model has delivered strong community outcomes, it faces real governance and fnancial challenges that require reform to ensure longterm stability.

Review calls for stronger governance and equity

The review examined several future options, all aimed at improving transparency and sustainability, and none recommended maintaining the current system

unchanged. It identifed the need for:

• Greater equity among member councils

• Clearer accountability structures

• Improved costrecovery mechanisms

The RTRL currently serves more than 227,000 residents across 12 branch libraries and a mobile library service throughout the Northern Rivers region.

Regional leadership praised RTRL Committee

Chair Cr Simon Chate (Ballina Shire Council) commended Lismore’s early decision as a “sensible, responsible and transparent” move.

“Lismore is leading by example — they’ve

considered all the data from the independent review, modelled the available options, and given other councils time to make informed decisions,” Cr Chate said.

Despite the structural challenges, the RTRL remains one of the region’s strongestperforming shared services, recording more than 1.7 million loans and over one million visits each year, with community satisfaction above 75 per cent

While Lismore has confrmed its commitment, the other councils are expected to fnalise their positions by December 2025, with a new Deed of Agreement to be negotiated and adopted ahead of the June 2027 transition.

“This is the frst step in a required process under the current Deed,” Cr Chate added.

“Once all councils have made their determinations, the new Deed will be developed and fnalised to support a strong, sustainable library network for our communities.”

$42 Billion Wiped from Australian Home Values as Climate Fuels Worsening Floods

Jef Gibbs

A groundbreaking new report has revealed that worsening climate-fuelled foods have already wiped $42.2 billion from the value of Australian homes, with properties in Queensland and New South Wales hardest hit.

The analysis, released jointly by PropTrack and the Climate Council, examined more than 20 years of property data and found that food-prone homes are collectively worth signifcantly less than comparable properties outside food zones — a phenomenon researchers are calling a “disaster penalty.” On average, homeowners in food-

afected areas are paying around $75,000 less for a typical three-bedroom,

In regional areas, the financial impact is staggering. In Lismore, home values are estimated to be down 8% — an average loss of $112,000 per house. Ballina has seen a 5.4% drop in house values and a 7.8% decline for units. Tweed Heads South and Pottsville have also been heavily affected, particularly in the apartment market.

Golden Wattle mobile service returns to Northern NSW communities

Jef Gibbs

Residents across Northern New South Wales will have easier access to key government services in the coming weeks, with Services Australia’s Mobile Service Centre –Golden Wattle – visiting towns throughout the region.

The 20-tonne mobile centre brings Medicare, Centrelink and other essential government services directly to rural and regional communities, ensuring locals can access face-to-face help without needing to travel long distances.

Staf aboard Golden Wattle can assist with:

• Centrelink claims and payments

• Medicare registrations and services

• Document updates and identity confrmation

• myGov access and online support

• Social work referrals and information

• Details about the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and Department of Veterans’ Afairs (DVA) services

Northern NSW Visit

Schedule

• Tabulam – Monday

27 October, opposite the hotel, Court Street

(9:30am–4:00pm)

• Tenterfeld – Tuesday 28 & Wednesday 29 October, Foodworks car park, High Street (9:00am–4:00pm)

• Emmaville – Thursday 30 October, near the Post Ofce, Post Ofce Street (9:30am–2:30pm)

• Warialda – Tuesday 4 November, Town Hall car park, Hope Street (9:30am–4:00pm)

• Mungindi – Wednesday 5 November, near the Rural Transaction Centre, St George Street (10:00am–3:30pm)

• Wee Waa – Thursday 6 November, near the Library, George Street (10:00am–4:00pm)

• Boggabri – Friday 7 November, near the Newsagency, Merton Street (9:30am–4:00pm)

• Bingara – Monday 10 November, near the Roxy Theatre, Cunningham Street (10:00am–4:00pm)

• Delungra – Tuesday

11 November, HACC

Building car park, Inverell Street (9:00am–4:00pm)

• Tingha – Wednesday 12 November, near the Town Hall, Ruby Street (9:00am–4:00pm)

• Guyra – Thursday 13 November, near Rotary Park, New England Highway (9:00am–3:00pm)

Services Australia said the mobile service centres are designed to ensure no Australian misses out on essential government support, especially in remote or disasterafected communities

“These mobile ofces mean people can get help in person, ask questions and have forms processed on the spot – just like visiting a permanent service centre,” a Services Australia spokesperson said. For updates and future routes, visit servicesaustralia.gov.au/ mobileofce

risks,” she said.

“Even high-value coastal or inner-city communities can lose hundreds of thousands in property value. And in lowerincome areas, food risk is deepening inequality.”

Climate Costs Ripple Beyond Property

Queensland’s foodprone homes have lost an estimated $19.2 billion in value, while NSW properties have forgone around $14.2 billion Victoria follows with $5.6 billion.

“A Losing Hand for Homeowners”

Economist and Climate Councillor Nicki Hutley said worsening food risks are now eroding what most Australians see as their biggest investment — their home.

“Our homes are our most prized assets, but we’re increasingly being dealt a losing hand when it comes to worsening climate

Climate Council CEO Amanda McKenzie said the fndings echo the Federal Government’s National Climate Risk Assessment, which recently warned of escalating impacts if emissions are not cut faster.

“Over a million

households are already losing out — from Lismore to Townsville to the Hawkesbury,” Ms McKenzie said.

“Climate pollution is supercharging food disasters. It’s not just devaluing homes; it’s costing everyone through higher insurance, recovery, and repair bills.”

The report urges the Federal Government to tighten environmental laws and stop approving new coal and gas projects, which it says are “making the situation worse.”

Property Value Gaps by State

Over-50s Estate Invites Locals to See How They Can ‘Live Life Well’

Lincoln Lifestyle Northern Rivers is embracing a new era of over-50s living, with a fresh outlook on what downsized life can be. Formerly known as Northern Rivers Lifestyle Estate, the community in Gulmarrad, between Yamba and Maclean, ofers modern two – and three-bedroom homes within a safe and friendly environment.

The change comes as part of Lincoln Place’s transformation under the new ethos Live Life Well , refecting a renewed focus on wellbeing, connection and everyday joy. Lincoln Lifestyle over 50s communities are designed as places where neighbours quickly become friends, where mornings begin with a chat over cofee, and where feel-good facilities make it easy

to stay active and social every day.

Tranquillity and Vibrant Community Living

Residents at the Northern Rivers community enjoy a blend of tranquil surrounds and vibrancy, from peaceful walks through landscaped grounds to friendly matches on the bowls green. It’s a place where every day brings new opportunities to connect, whether that’s at a barbecue, a craft session, or an afternoon chat in the sunshine. Construction is now underway on a new clubhouse precinct, which will soon become the community’s social heart. When complete, it will include a resident lounge, theatre, games

room, gym, swimming pool and creative spaces designed to nurture health, happiness and a strong sense of belonging.

Homes Designed for Everyday Ease

With a selection of beautifully designed two – and three-bedroom homes available and ready to move into by early next year, there’s never been a better time to make the move.

One of the Estate’s most popular designs, The Bancroft, perfectly balances convenience with contemporary style. Its open-plan kitchen and dining area fow seamlessly to a spacious alfresco, creating the ideal setting for entertaining or unwinding. With two generous bedrooms and step-free access,

each home is built onsite as part of Lincoln Lifestyle’s commitment to helping residents age in place comfortably and confdently.

To make settling in even easier, Lincoln Lifestyle is currently ofering a $5,000 Smooth Move rebate for new buyers who deposit on a new home before 30 November 2025. The ofer provides a helping hand with moving costs; another way Lincoln Place is making the downsizing journey more accessible and stressfree.

An Innovative Approach to Downsizing

Lincoln Lifestyle Northern Rivers operates under the innovative land lease model—a smarter, more accessible way for

Australians over 50 to downsize.

Under this model, residents own their homes outright while leasing the land beneath them. This arrangement removes the burden of stamp duty and entry or exit fees, while allowing homeowners to retain 100% of any capital gains when they sell.

Each Lincoln Lifestyle Estate also ofers access to resort-style facilities and the support of on-site community management, ensuring residents can enjoy an active, social and worry-free way of life.

The structure not only makes purchasing a new home more fnancially achievable, but it also fosters a strong sense of community, with residents equally invested in their surroundings and

lifestyle.

Discover Lincoln Lifestyle for Yourself at the Spring Open Day

Locals will have the chance to experience the community frsthand at the upcoming Spring Open Day on Saturday, 8 November 2025. Visitors can take guided tours of display homes, explore the growing facilities, and meet residents who already call the community home.

Complimentary cofee and a barbecue will be available while guests soak up the relaxed, friendly atmosphere that defnes this welcoming over-50s neighbourhood. To learn more or register for the Spring Open Day, visit www. lincolnplace.com.au/ events

Kevin Hogan MP Column

Jacaranda Ball 2025

The Jacaranda Ball 2025 was an iconic celebration of community spirit and wonderful Jacaranda trees. This iconic event continues to be a highlight in the Clarence Valley, bringing families together and showcasing the incredible nature in our region. Congratulations to this year’s candidates, Amanda Fonti, Harmony Davies, Reenie Young, Bella Whitton, and our junior candidates Athena Johnson, Kennah Lowe, and Chloe Gavin. I would like to also acknowledge Chris Lynch, this year’s Matron of Honour, for her outstanding contribution. I also commend the Grafton Jacaranda Festival Committee, Amanda Brotherson, and all the volunteers whose eforts make this event possible. The Jacaranda Ball is a true celebration of our community, and I wish everyone a fantastic Jacaranda season.

North Coast National Lismore Show

The Lismore Show 2025 has wrapped up for another fantastic weekend of entertainment, agriculture and community spirit. Congratulations to the 2025 Young North Coast National Young Woman of the Year, Kate Hepburn and entrants Zahlie Walker, Madeleine Donnelly, Ebony Micallef and Elsie Wilkinson. It is very special to see to dedication of the Cattle Ring to Rodney Gibson, honouring his long-lasting legacy at the Lismore Show. Congratulations to Show President, John Gibson, the Show Society and the generous sponsors for making this wonderful community event possible.

Grafton Rowing Club

Great to see work progressing on the New

Grafton Rowing Club upgrade, featuring a rooftop deck, lounge, gym and seminar space. It was great to secure funding for this project a few years ago. This new addition will become a key part of Grafton’s new waterfront precinct.

Bluf Bridge, Orara Valley

Construction is well underway on the Bluf Bridge in the Orara Valley, a project that will signifcantly improve safety for our community. The bridge will be raised by eight metres, ensuring it can withstand extreme weather events and better serve our community for decades to come. It was great to secure $5 million to put towards this vital project. This is a fantastic project for our community, improving safety and ensuring reliable access for everyone who travels through the area. This project will beneft

everyone in our region.

Casino Suspension Bridge

It is great to see the construction of the Casino Suspension Bridge progressing, a new footbridge linking McAulife Park with Elizabeth Park over the

Richmond River. This bridge will provide a safer, more accessible crossing for the community, connecting key recreational areas with the town centre. This project is a great addition for our community, ofering safer, more convenient access for pedestrians and

cyclists while supporting recreation and community engagement across Casino and the Richmond Valley. It is a project that highlights the importance of active transport, community safety, and local recreation, and it will be a fantastic addition to Casino and the wider Richmond Valley.

Lismore Council Takes Zero-Tolerance Stand on Abuse Toward Staff

Jef Gibbs

Lismore City Council has issued a strong warning to those engaging in violent and abusive behaviour toward staf, declaring a zero-tolerance policy after a disturbing string of incidents at the Goonellabah Sports and Aquatic Centre (GSAC)

In recent weeks, Council staf at the facility have been sworn at, spat on and assaulted, with the most recent incident involving a group of juveniles who threw urine-soaked paper at reception, cleaning and

crèche staf. Council says these acts are not pranks but serious abuse and intimidation

Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg said the time for leniency is over.

“Our staf are locals, people who live and work in this community. They come to work each day to support our residents, not to be threatened or humiliated. Abuse of any kind will not be tolerated,” Cr Krieg said.

Council will ban individuals who breach the facility’s Conditions of Entry or reasonable conduct codes and will refer serious incidents to police for further action.

“These are grubby acts. Those who think this behaviour is funny or harmless need to understand it has real consequences,” the Mayor

said. “Not only does it impact the wellbeing of our staf, but it also costs the community. Every act of vandalism, every incident of aggression, adds to the cost of cleaning, repairs and

security.”

The strong message coincides with Safe Work Month and Council’s “Your Behaviour Matters” campaign, which reminds residents that respect and kindness should guide all community interactions.

“Everyone deserves to feel safe whether they’re working on our roads, in our libraries, or at our local sports and aquatic centres,” Mayor Krieg added. “Our message is simple – show respect, follow the rules, and remember that our staf are here to serve

you. Abuse will not be tolerated in any form.” Council is working with Richmond Police District to increase patrols around the Goonellabah shopping precinct and GSAC, helping to create a safer environment for both staf and visitors.

Community leaders have praised the move, noting that ongoing incidents of abuse have taken a toll on morale among Council workers. The initiative signals that Lismore City Council will protect its employees and ensure that workplaces remain safe for everyone.

Empowering Northern Rivers Residents with Online Safety and Scam Awareness

Jef Gibbs

Residents across the Northern Rivers will gain valuable knowledge on protecting their personal information and staying safe online when the ID Support NSW team visits the region from 27–31 October

The visit coincides with Cyber Security Awareness Month and forms part of the NSW Government’s ongoing efort to promote digital inclusion and identity security, particularly for vulnerable and regional communities.

Jacki Muir, Director ID Support NSW

Helping locals stay safe online

In partnership with Ballina Shire Council’s inaugural Tech Week, ID Support NSW will

host free sessions ofering tailored advice on how to secure personal data, recognise and avoid scams, and strengthen online safety practices.

Team members will also meet with small business owners to share strategies for safeguarding customer information and ensuring compliance with privacy and data protection standards.

“We’re very excited to help people in the Northern Rivers understand how to avoid scams and secure their identity,” said Jacki Muir, Director of ID

It’s Sedimentary, My Dear Watson! Citizen Scientists

Undertake Largest-Ever Clarence River Survey

Robert Heyward

More than 200 citizen scientists have joined forces to complete the largest-ever communitydriven sediment survey of the Clarence River catchment — a monumental efort to protect one of the NSW North Coast’s most signifcant river systems. Over the weekend of October 18–19, small volunteer teams collected sediment samples from 100 key sites across the catchment, from Grafton to Tabulam. Coordinated by the Clarence River Guardians and Southern Cross University (SCU), the samples were dispatched to SCU laboratories for detailed analysis of more than 50 elements, including heavy metals, metalloids and trace compounds. The survey follows growing concern over expanded mining exploration licences and potential threats to water quality in the Clarence system. It builds on a smaller, successful community sampling project completed earlier this year in the Macleay

River catchment.

Project lead Professor Scott Johnston from SCU said the data collected will serve as a crucial baseline for future river management

“Rivers are delicate ecosystems, and once polluted, recovery is slow and complex,” he said.

“Citizen scientists make large-scale sampling achievable, ensuring a robust dataset that refects community commitment to the river’s health.”

A distinctive feature of the project is its collaboration with First Nations custodians, who contributed to project design and helped refne sampling site locations.

In an unprecedented move, all sediment samples will be returned to their original collection points after analysis — a gesture of respect to Country, the River and Traditional Owners.

Tracy Pateman from the Clarence River Guardians praised the volunteers’ efort.

“It was incredible to see so many people on the

Support NSW.

“Everyone is welcome to come and chat with us — there are no silly questions. Our sessions are free, and our goal is to help you feel more confdent online.”

Protecting the vulnerable

The sessions respond to fndings from the NSW Digital Inclusion Strategy, which revealed that over 80% of respondents had encountered online scams, privacy breaches, or harassment. Vulnerable and disadvantaged communities were

among the most afected, highlighting the urgent need for accessible cyber safety education.

In 2025 alone, more than 25,000 scams have been reported in NSW, with losses exceeding $48 million, according to ScamWatch. Scammers most commonly use emails, phone calls, and text messages to target victims.

Since its launch, ID

Support NSW has attended over 140 community events, delivering privacy and security advice to more than 90,000 people statewide.

Regional outreach and resources

The Northern Rivers visit follows successful engagements at other regional events, including the Henty Machinery Field Days and Australian National Field Days in Borenore, where the team provided on-the-spot guidance to residents and business owners.

Information about the Northern Rivers sessions, as well as other upcoming ID Support NSW events, can be found at nsw.gov. au/id-support-nsw/events

Nominations extended for 2026 Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards

Jef Gibbs

river, collecting samples and contributing to science,” she said. “We hope this is the frst of many future surveys.”

The operation — covering a catchment nearly half the size of Switzerland — relied on GPS-enabled smartphones, QR codes and digital mapping to coordinate volunteers safely and precisely.

A parallel citizen water-quality monitoring project, also led by SCU, has been running throughout 2025. Participants use digital probes to measure and upload water quality data in real time via WhatsApp, with results verifed and mapped by Professor Johnston within hours.

“Transparency motivates our volunteers,” Johnston said. “Citizen science supported by university training and analysis is a powerful way to protect pristine environments like the Clarence.”

To view realtime data, visit clarenceriverguardians. net/estuary-waterquality-data

Ballina Shire Council has announced an extension for nominations in the 2026 Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards, giving locals until Friday 7 November 2025 to put forward the names of community heroes who deserve recognition.

The annual awards shine a light on those who dedicate their time, compassion and energy to improving the lives of others — from volunteers and sports mentors to young leaders, environmental advocates, and creative contributors.

Celebrating Community Spirit

Ballina Shire Mayor Sharon Cadwallader said the awards are an opportunity to recognise the people and groups who embody the region’s community spirit.

“What stands out about our nominees is not only what they achieve, but the way they lift others up and inspire positive change,”

Cr Cadwallader said.

“These awards celebrate both remarkable individuals and groups whose ongoing commitment helps shape a stronger, more connected community.”

Award Categories

Residents are encouraged to nominate an individual, team or organisation in one of the following categories:

Young Citizen of the Year (30 years or under): Celebrating young achievers making a positive impact.

Senior Citizen of the Year (60 years or over): Honouring the wisdom and dedication of older residents.

Volunteer Award (individual or group): Recognising those who selfessly give their time to help others.

Sports Award: For individuals, teams, coaches or administrators contributing to local sport.

Arts and Culture Award: Celebrating creativity and cultural enrichment.

Environmental Award: Acknowledging champions of sustainability and conservation.

Community Event of the Year: Highlighting

outstanding events from 2025 that brought people together.

The Ballina Shire Citizen of the Year 2026 will be selected from nominees across all categories.

How to Nominate Nominations can be submitted online at ballina.nsw.gov. au/2026Awards and must be received by Friday 7 November 2025 Award winners will be announced at the 2026 Ballina Shire Australia Day Awards ceremony, to be held on Monday 26 January 2026 at the Lennox Head Cultural Centre It’s a chance to come together and celebrate the people whose eforts continue to make Ballina Shire a proud and connected community.

Northern Rivers Times

ENTERTAINMENT

Regreting You –

A Mother-Daughter Tale of Love, Loss and Second Chances The Story

Jef Gibbs

Regretting You brings Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel to the big screen with a sweeping emotional story about family, forgiveness and rediscovering love after heartbreak. Directed by Josh Boone (The Fault in Our Stars), the flm centres on Morgan Grant (Allison Williams), a woman who set aside her dreams for early motherhood, and her teenage daughter Clara Grant (Mckenna Grace), who is determined to live life on her own terms. Their uneasy relationship reaches breaking point when tragedy strikes — a car accident claims the lives of Morgan’s husband Chris (Scott Eastwood) and her younger sister Jenny (Willa Fitzgerald). As secrets begin to unravel, Morgan and Clara are forced to confront painful truths about betrayal, identity and how to move forward. Both women fnd unexpected sources of comfort: Clara turns to Miller Adams (Mason Thames), a thoughtful classmate, while Morgan

reconnects with Jonah Sullivan (Dave Franco), a man from her past whose reappearance stirs old emotions.

Boone’s direction leans into the novel’s bittersweet themes — love found too soon, and love lost too young — resulting in a heartfelt, if occasionally melodramatic, family drama.

Cast and Performances

Allison Williams delivers one of her more grounded performances as Morgan, convincingly portraying a woman torn between guilt and maternal duty. Her chemistry with Mckenna Grace is strong, anchoring the flm’s emotional core. Grace, one of Hollywood’s most talented young actors, captures teenage rebellion and vulnerability in equal measure, making Clara both frustrating and sympathetic. Dave Franco brings quiet depth to Jonah, though his storyline occasionally feels underdeveloped. Mason Thames shines as Miller, the flm’s moral compass, ofering youthful sincerity

without falling into cliché. Scott Eastwood’s limited screen time leaves a lasting mark, while Willa Fitzgerald’s Jenny adds warmth before the story takes its darker turns.

Music, Mood and Direction

The soundtrack — a mix of soft indie-pop and pianoled ballads — fts perfectly within the flm’s emotional beats. Composer Rob Simonsen (known for Love, Simon) layers the score with acoustic textures that mirror the characters’ internal struggles. Boone’s visual style, bathed in golden light and suburban quiet, evokes the small-town intimacy of Friday Night Lights

However, pacing is uneven. The flm’s middle section drags slightly as it juggles grief, romance and revelation. Still, when Regretting You fnds its rhythm, it resonates deeply, particularly in the closing scenes where reconciliation feels genuinely earned.

Themes and Appeal

This is a story about mothers and daughters —

about how grief reshapes relationships and how love, in its messiest forms, can heal old wounds. For Australian audiences, Regretting You will feel familiar and comforting — a cinematic “warm cuppa” flled with raw emotion, teenage angst and redemption. It’s a perfect weekend pick for anyone who enjoys heartfelt

drama in the style of Steel Magnolias or Little Women That said, it won’t please everyone. Some may fnd the flm overly sentimental or predictable, and it occasionally slips into soap-opera territory. But for fans of Colleen Hoover, it delivers exactly what’s promised — emotional intensity, tear-jerking dialogue, and characters

who ultimately choose forgiveness over fury.

Interesting Facts

• The flm is based on Colleen Hoover’s 2019 novel, her second major adaptation after It Ends With Us

• Filming took place in Georgia, despite the story’s Texas setting.

• Josh Boone reunited with cinematographer Brian Koss for a soft, dreamlike look.

• Grace and Williams reportedly spent weeks together to build their on-screen mother-daughter bond.

• Hoover herself served as a consulting producer, ensuring key book moments made the fnal cut.

Verdict «««1/2;« (3.5/5)

Regretting You doesn’t reinvent the family-drama wheel, but it delivers a sincere and moving experience. Allison Williams and Mckenna Grace elevate familiar material with heartfelt performances that make the tears feel earned. It’s a bittersweet, beautifully acted story about second chances — and for many, that’s reason enough to see it.

ANNIE HALL (M DIANE KEATON TRIBUTE Sun: 2:00PM

OUT OF HELL –THE MUSICAL CTC) Fri, Sat: 1:00PM

BFF25 THE CHORAL (M) BRITISH FF OPENING Wed: 7:00PM

DEPECHE MODE: M PG) Thurs: 8:00PM

DIE, MY LOVE (CTC Tues: 6:30PM

PEE-WEE'S BIG ADVENTURE PG CULT VAULT Mon: 6:00PM THE TWILIGHT SAGA MARATHON (M) Sat: 1:30PM

FAMILY FILMS

A PAW PATROL CHRISTMAS G) NFT Daily: 10:45AM KANGAROO (PG) Daily except Sun: 1:15PM

K-POP DEMON HUNTERS HALLOWEEN SING-ALONG (PG ONE WEEKEND ONLY Fri: 6:00PM. Sat: 10:50AM, 1:00PM, 3:45PM. Sun: 10:50AM, 1:00PM, 3:20PM THE BAD GUYS 2 PG) Daily: 10:45AM

ALL FILMS AFTER THE HUNT (MA15+ Thurs: 2:20PM, 5:15PM. Fri, Mon: 2:20PM, 8:00PM. Sat: 8:15PM. Sun: 2:20PM, 5:15PM, 8:00PM. Tues, Wed: 2:20PM, 8:15PM BLACK PHONE 2 (MA15+) Daily: 8:30PM

BUGONIA (MA15+) NFT Thurs, Fri, Mon: 10:45AM, 3:30PM, 6:00PM, 8:15PM. Sat, Sun: 10:45AM, 2:30PM, 6:00PM, 8:15PM. Tues, Wed: 10:45AM, 3:30PM, 6:00PM, 8:30PM

CHAINSAW MAN –THE MOVIE: REZE ARC (SUBBED) (MA15+) Thurs, Fri, Sat, Mon: 5:00PM, 8:20PM. Sun: 5:00PM, 8:30PM. Tues: 4:20PM, 8:20PM. Wed: 4:45PM, 8:20PM

FRANKENSTEIN MA15+ Daily except Sat: 11:15AM, 4:00PM, 7:00PM. Sat: 11:00AM, 4:00PM, 7:00PM

GOOD FORTUNE M) NFT Daily except Sun: 2:00PM, 4:10PM, 6:15PM. Sun: 10:50AM, 4:10PM, 6:15PM

JOURNEY HOME, DAVID GULPILIL (M) NFT Thurs, Mon: 11:30AM, 2:30PM. Fri: 2:30PM, 5:15PM. Sat: 10:50AM. Sun: 1:15PM. Tues: 11:30AM, 2:00PM. Wed: 11:30AM, 2:20PM

KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN M NFT Daily: 12:20PM, 3:00PM, 5:45PM

ONE BATTLE AFTER ANOTHER (M Daily except Tues, Wed: 11:15AM, 1:00PM, 7:15PM. Tues: 10:50AM, 1:00PM, 5:15PM. Wed: 11:00AM, 1:00PM, 5:15PM

REGRETTING YOU (M Thurs: 3:00PM, 8:00PM. Fri: 3:10PM, 8:15PM. Sat: 3:10PM, 5:45PM. Sun: 3:30PM, 5:45PM, 8:15PM. Mon, Tues, Wed: 3:10PM, 5:45PM, 8:15PM

ROOFMAN M Daily except Sat, Sun: 11:15AM, 8:20PM. Sat: 10:50AM, 8:20PM. Sun: 8:20PM

SIGNORINELLA: LITTLE MISS (PG NFT Daily except Sat: 11:00AM, 1:10PM, 4:20PM, 6:20PM. Sat: 11:00AM, 4:20PM, 6:20PM

SPRINGSTEEN: DELIVER ME FROM NOWHERE (M) Daily except Sat: 10:45AM, 1:00PM, 3:30PM, 6:00PM, 8:30PM. Sat: 1:00PM, 3:30PM, 6:00PM, 8:30PM THE TRAVELLERS (M) Thurs, Mon, Tues, Wed: 1:45PM. Fri: 10:50AM

A PAW PATROL CHRISTMAS (G) NFT Daily except Sat, Sun: 3:00PM. Sat, Sun: 12:00PM

BFF25 THE CHORAL (M) BRITISH FF OPENING Wed: 6:30PM BLACK PHONE 2 MA15+ Thurs, Mon, Tues: 4:45PM, 7:15PM. Fri, Sat, Sun: 7:15PM. Wed: 4:45PM

DOUBLE INDEMNITY (PG) MATINEE MEMORIES Wed: 10:00AM KANGAROO PG) Daily except Wed: 4:45PM. Wed: 2:20PM K-POP DEMON HUNTERS HALLOWEEN SING-ALONG (PG) ONE WEEKEND ONLY Fri: 5:30PM. Sat, Sun: 10:15AM, 12:30PM, 5:15PM REGRETTING YOU (M Thurs, Fri, Mon, Tues: 12:15PM, 2:15PM, 7:20PM. Sat, Sun: 2:15PM, 7:20PM. Wed: 11:50AM, 4:10PM, 7:30PM

ROOFMAN M) Daily: 4:45PM

SIGNORINELLA: LITTLE MISS (PG NFT Daily except Wed: 10:00AM, 2:45PM. Wed: 12:20PM, 2:15PM SPRINGSTEEN: DELIVER ME FROM NOWHERE (M) Thurs, Mon, Tues, Wed: 10:00AM, 12:30PM, 7:10PM. Fri: 10:00AM, 12:30PM, 7:30PM. Sat, Sun: 10:00AM, 12:20PM, 7:30PM THE BAD GUYS 2 (PG Thurs, Fri, Mon, Tues: 12:00PM THE TRAVELLERS (M Thurs, Fri, Mon, Tues: 10:10AM. Sat, Sun: 3:00PM. Wed: 9:45AM

PUZZLES

TIME FOR TRIVIA

Place

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 ABERRANT

(a) Straying from the right course

(b) In or on the abdomen

(c) Made ashamed or embarrassed

2 EGALITARIAN

(a) Unduly demonstrative

(b) Shining forth brilliantly

(c) Asserting the equality of all people

3 GRATULATION

(a) Natural tendency towards some point of influence

(b) A feeling of joy

(c) Circular or spiral motion

4 OBTUSE

(a) Not yielding to argument

(b) Having the base narrower than the top

(c) Blunt in form

5 VAGARIOUS

(a) Erratic or wandering

(b) Not explicit or precise

(c) Living in flocks or herds

1 Mount Elbrus is located in which mountain range? (a) Andes (b) Himalayas (c) Caucasus (d) Alborz

2 The quote “Out, damned spot!” is a quote from which play by William Shakespeare? (a) Othello (b) Hamlet (c) King Lear (d) Macbeth

3 Donna Hay magazine was launched during which year? (a) 2001 (b) 1991 (c) 1981 (d) 1971

4 Which of the following TV series has been inducted into the Logie Hall of Fame? (a) Neighbours (b) Play School (c) 60 Minutes (d) All of the above

5 What are Russian valenki? (a) Footwear (b) Donuts (c) Federal laws (d) Musicians

6 Which song by Fleetwood Mac starts with the words, “Listen to the wind blow”? (a) The Chain (b) Rhiannon (c) Dreams (d) Go Your Own Way

ALFAKODO

WEEKLY CROSSWORD

BEST ON THE BOX

FRIDAY

GARDENING

AUSTRALIA

ABC TV, 7.30pm

With summer on the horizon, there’s no excuse for not getting out into the garden to spruce things up in the spring sunshine. Friday night’s episode of this hardy ABC staple hosted by the hirsute Costa Georgiadis is sure to provide you with plenty of inspiration. In this informative instalment, Jane Edmanson discovers a lush urban courtyard set amid the bustling CBD, while Josh Byrne joins an inquisitive research team tracking backyard biodiversity. Elsewhere, Hannah Moloney (pictured above) explores a ourishing cottage garden that pops with natural colour, while Millie Ross dons her well-worn gloves to tackle native maintenance with gusto.

FRIDAY, October 31

TUESDAY

TEN, 7.30pm

TALKIN’ ‘BOUT YOUR GEN

Tuesday’s season nale of this revived comedy game show features a round that is so entertaining it could be the entire format. In “Pop Quiz”, host Anne Edmonds (pictured right) allows the teams to research the questions – but with an age-inappropriate hurdle for each to climb over. Cue the reading glasses when Gen X’s Dave Hughes and Lisa McCune look for answers on TikTok; millennials Tommy Little and Luke McGregor take on a vintage computer with Encarta ’98 installed; and Generation Z’s Anisa Nandaula and Kath Ebbs attempt to navigate a dusty set of Encyclopedia Britannica volumes. Hilarity ensues as the youngsters learn how we lived before the “search” button.

WEDNESDAY

CRIME NIGHT!

ABC TV, 8.30pm

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

6.00 WorldWatch. 8.00 DD India News Hour. 9.25 Scotland: A Wild Year. (R) 10.20 Confucius Was A Foodie. (R) 11.10 London: 2,000 Years Of History. (PG, R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.05 No Maori Allowed. (Mal, R) 3.00 Nula. 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Scotland’s Riverwoods. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

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

7.30 Gardening Australia. Jane Edmanson discovers an urban courtyard.

8.30 Professor T. (Final, Mav) The body of an undercover police o cer is discovered in the boot of a car.

9.20 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) Tom Gleeson grills four fan favourites who are experts on topics in a comedic quiz show.

9.50 Mother And Son. (Final, PGdl, R) Maggie throws herself a party.

10.20 The Assembly: Maggie Beer. (Final, l, R)

11.05 ABC Late News.

11.20 Silent Witness. (Malv, R)

12.20 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

Programs. 10.00 Nikhil And

6am

11.00

Masks. 11.25 Wiggle And Learn. 11.55 Thomas And

12.55pm Builder Brothers Dream Factory. 2.25 Bea’s Block. 2.50 Gardening Australia Junior. 3.05 Play School. 3.55 Super Monsters. 4.35 Ariel. 5.20 Mojo Swoptops. 5.45 Kangaroo Beach. 6.50 Room On The Broom. 7.30 The Ghastly Ghoul. 8.00 TBA. 8.25 Hard Quiz Kids. 8.55 Robot Wars. 9.55 Merlin. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 The Gunpowder Plot: Countdown To Treason. (PGa, R) 9.15 Lost Treasures Of Egypt: Tutankhamun’s Secret Revolution. (PGa) Looks at Tutankhamun’s in uence.

10.10 SBS World News Late. 10.40 Sisi. (MA15+s, R) 11.40 Rogue Heroes. (MA15+v, R)

2.00 Making Sense Of Cancer With Hannah Fry. (Mal, R)

3.05 Growing A Greener World. (R)

4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

Taking a fresh tilt at the well worn true-crime genre, this panel show hosted by Julia Zemiro (pictured right) breaks the mould somewhat – inviting a rotating roster of Australia’s best comedians to discuss the science and psychology behind crime, alongside expert criminologists Professor Danielle Reynald and Dr David Bartlett. Perhaps it’s best described as Gruen for armchair detectives and the morbidly curious. If Zemiro and co. can pull o this tonally twisted tightrope walk, it will be the TV heist of the decade. Wednesday’s premiere welcomes Celia Pacquola and Mel Buttle to the desk for an examination of noteworthy and notorious eyewitness testimonies throughout history.

(5) NBN (8, 80) 6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Knowing The Score. (PG, R) 11.00 The Following Events Are Based On A Pack Of Lies. (Malv, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Mystery Road: Origin. (Final, Malv, R) 1.50 Grand Designs Australia. (R) 2.50 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery. (PG, R) 3.20 Grand Designs. (R) 4.10 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 4.55 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 5.55 QI. (PGs, R)

6.00 7News Local.

6.30 7News @ 6:30.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Dr Harry Cooper looks at a popular dog breed.

8.30 MOVIE: The Bourne Ultimatum. (2007, Mv, R) A former secret agent is once again hunted by the agency that created him. Matt Damon, Julia Stiles, David Strathairn.

10.50 Motorway Patrol. (PGad, R)

11.20 GetOn Extra.

11.50 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)

12.20 Healthy, Wealthy & Wise. (PG, R)

1.20 In Plain Sight. (Madv)

2.30 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: Tangled Worlds. (PG) Presented by Sir David Attenborough.

8.30 MOVIE: The Meg. (2018, Mv, R) A group of scientists exploring the Marianas Trench encounters a giant shark. Jason Statham, Li Bingbing, Rainn Wilson.

10.40 Race To The Melbourne Cup Carnival. (PGl)

11.40 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+av, R)

12.35 Tipping Point. (PG, 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+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace.

7.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.30 The Dog House. (PGa) Looks at a at-coated retriever. 8.30 House Hunters Australia. (R) Primrose and Brendon want to trade their suburban life for a home in Sydney’s Northern Beaches. 9.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Ml, R) Celebrity guests include Zoë Saldaña, Selena Gomez, Miranda Hart and Ncuti Gatwa. 10.30 10’s Late News. 10.55 10 News+. (R)

11.55 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

6am Morning Programs. Noon DW The Day. 12.30 Mental Illness On Death Row. 1.25 Battleground Texas. 2.15 The Bee Whisperer. 3.05 Bamay. 3.35 BBC News At Ten. 4.05 France 24. 4.35 PBS News. 5.35 If You Are The One. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Women Who Rock. 9.35 Sex Unlimited. 10.30 Adam Hills: The Last Leg. 11.25 Homeland. 1.20am The Amityville Horror. 2.10 Night Bloomers. 3.20 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera. 6am Surf Patrol. 6.30 Escape To The

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. 7.30 Renters. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.

9GO! (83) 6am The Movie Show. 6.35 Oink. (2022, PG, Dutch) 8.00 The Movie Show. 8.35 Poms. (2019, PG) 10.20 Cairo Conspiracy. (2022, M, Arabic) 12.35pm The Promise. (2016, M) 3.00 The Movie Show. 3.35 The Company. (2003, PG) 5.40 The Big Steal. (1990, PG) 7.30 Truth. (2015, M) 9.50 The Moogai. (2020) 11.20 The Darkside. (2013, PG) 1.05am Doctor Sleep. (2019, MA15+) 3.40 How To Blow Up A Pipeline. (2022,

4.30 American Resto. 5.00 Storage Wars. 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Football. AFL Women’s. Round 12. Hawthorn v North Melbourne. 9.15 MOVIE: Terminator: Dark Fate. (2019, MA15+) 11.50 Late Programs.

6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 Sur ng Aust. 8.30 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family. 10.00 Bewitched. 10.30 Jeannie. 11.00 The West Wing. 12.10pm MOVIE: Stalked By A Reality Star. (2018, M) 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: The Addams Family. (2019, PG) 9.10 MOVIE: Beetlejuice. (1988, M) 11.05 MOVIE: Candyman. (2021, MA15+) 12.50am The Vampire Diaries. 2.35 Supernatural. 3.30 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 9.00

TARGET TIME I L N R I N

G

W K Today’s target: 12 words average 16 words good 20+ 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

ARIES (Mar 21 - Apr 19)

LEO (July 23 - Aug 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 - Dec 21)

Auspac Media

Venus is visiting your relationship zone, which favours close friendships, joint ventures and lashings of romance. And encourages you to empathise with a loved one or work colleague who is experiencing difficulties. When dealing with others, being kind of heart and offering positive advice is a winning double. Tuesday’s Mars/Jupiter trine helps you motivate a friend or relative to be more adventurous. Strive to be the positive role model they are looking for.

TAURUS (Apr 20 - May 20)

With Venus visiting your wellbeing zone, find a fitness routine that keeps you motivated and choose healthy food options that you actually enjoy eating! Attached Taurus – are you stuck in a relationship rut? Mars encourages you to communicate with your partner in creative, proactive ways. Unhappily single? Don’t be seduced by good looks, powerful pecs or a bulging bank balance. Look for lasting love with someone who has similar goals and values.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 20)

It’s a good week for completing work projects and making future plans. However, on Wednesday and Thursday, restless Uranus opposes Mercury (your patron planet) and you could feel extra impatient and skip over important details along the way. Be extra careful you don’t blurt out an inappropriate comment to the wrong person at the wrong time. Then Friday’s positive Mercury/ Pluto link encourages close connections and intense communication.

CANCER (June 21 - July 22)

You’re in the mood for fun, action and entertainment! But, in order to capitalise on the Mars-Jupiter energy surge, some forethought and planning are required. There’s just no substitute for thorough research and paying close attention to details as perceptive Pluto helps you think deeply, and Mercury helps you to multi-task. So don’t waste the opportunity to be megaorganised and super productive, as you power through projects with extra focus and finesse.

The Sun, Mercury and Mars light up your family zone, so try to get the balance right between professional progress and domestic peace. And –if you have to choose – lean slightly towards harmony at home with housemates, family members and close neighbours. Monday is the best day to start a big DIY project. Your motto for the moment comes from actress Julia Roberts (who turns 58 on Tuesday): “My life at home gives me absolute joy.”

VIRGO (Aug 23 - Sep 22)

This week the Sun, Mercury and Mars encourage vigorous communication, Virgo, as you expand your influence (especially via social media). Being confident is paramount but avoid the tendency to jump to conclusions. Venus suggests an increase in cashflow but be careful you don’t cancel that out by indulging in a spontaneous spending spree! On Friday you’re super perceptive, as you solve a problem by paying close attention to important details.

LIBRA (Sep 23 - Oct 22)

It’s time to replace confrontation with cooperation! Venus (your ruling planet) is transiting through Libra (until November 6), so the more you focus on the needs of loved ones, the happier everyone will be. And the more proactive you are about finding win-win solutions to partnership problems (whether romantic or platonic), the more harmonious life will be. When it comes to communication, think things through before you speak, text and post.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 - Nov 21)

Many Scorpions love the spectacle of Halloween celebrations, as Scorpio (ruled by Pluto – God of the Underworld) is the sign that rules the dark, mysterious parts of life. So, finding a suitably dramatic, gothic costume (for you or your kids) is essential. Friday’s Mercury/Pluto link will help you get into an intense and imaginative mood. Your weekly motto comes from birthday great, poet Sylvia Plath: “Love life day by day, colour by colour, touch by touch.”

The positive, proactive Mars/Jupiter trine increases your enthusiasm for assisting those who are sick or in need. You’ll find the more you lend a hand to others, the better you’ll feel and the more friends you’ll make. With Venus in your peer group zone, your motto is from writer Robert Louis Stevenson (who had the Sun in Scorpio and Venus in Sagittarius): “A friend is a gift you give yourself.’ It’s also a fabulous week to have fun exploring places close to home.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 - Jan 19)

The midweek Mars/Saturn trine is terrific for putting plenty of energy into a challenging, longterm project. Passion, enthusiasm, patience and perseverance will get you there in the end. By the time the weekend rolls around, you’ll feel like winding down and looking within as you meditate, contemplate, relax and ruminate. If you slow down and take the time to listen to the wisdom of your inner voice, then your intuition will point you in the right direction.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 - Feb 18)

On Tuesday, plan to be proactive at work. On Wednesday and Thursday, unpredictable Uranus (your ruling planet) opposes Mercury (planet of communication) which could lead to hasty words and impulsive actions. So slow down and think (carefully) before you speak and act, especially involving children, teenagers and friends. Friday’s fabulous Mercury/Pluto connection favours a personal passion project and intense communication with your peer group.

PISCES (Feb 19 - Mar 20)

The Sun, Mars and Jupiter activate your adventure zone. Many Pisceans are keen to travel, and the best time to take a heavenly holiday is between now and November 8 (or between Dec 1-28). So, start planning, booking or packing ASAP. But avoid blurting out something inappropriate, especially midweek. Coupled Pisces – love and lust are in the air. Single Fish –with Venus visiting your intimacy zone, look for someone who is trustworthy and kind.

NORTHERN RIVERS TIMES | WHAT’S ON: October 30 – November 6, 2025

Festivals, Markets, Gigs and Art Take Centre Stage

As spring hits its vibrant stride, the Northern Rivers is ready to entertain.

Between October 30 and November 6, the region will hum with the rhythm of festivals, markets, live music and art. From Byron Bay to Murwillumbah and Ballina, there’s something for everyone — whether you’re into salsa dancing, sideshow thrills, or simply soaking up the coastal sunshine with a local band in the background.

Byron Latin Fiesta – 20 Years of Rhythm

October 30 – November 2 | Byron Theatre & Community Centre

Byron Bay will ignite with colour, music and movement as the Byron Latin Fiesta celebrates its 20th year. This muchloved festival has become Australia’s longest-running Latin dance event, bringing together dancers, musicians

and visitors from around the world.

Across four nights and three lively days, festivalgoers can dive into over 30 workshops featuring Salsa, Bachata, Zouk, Kizomba, AfroCuban, Tango and Reggaetón. Each evening, the Byron Theatre transforms into a vibrant festa with live Latin bands, DJs, and themed parties, including a dazzling Day-of-the-Dead celebration.

With its relaxed coastal setting and “Beginners Hub” welcoming newcomers, the Byron Latin Fiesta is pure joy — a chance to dance, connect and celebrate life, Northern Rivers style.

Murwillumbah Show – Country Charm Meets Family Fun

October 31 – November 1 | Murwillumbah Showgrounds

Just up the road, the

Murwillumbah Show

ofers a weekend of family fun, country pride and community spirit. The gates swing open Friday afternoon, with the aroma of food stalls, the laughter of children, and the buzz of old-fashioned showground excitement flling the air.

Expect livestock judging, horse events, vintage machinery displays, and produce pavilions alongside art, craft and cooking competitions.

Sideshow alley and carnival rides will keep the kids smiling, while the Friday night rodeo and freworks promise a spectacular highlight for all ages.

It’s a celebration of everything that makes regional life special — community, creativity, and good old-fashioned entertainment.

Markets, Exhibitions & Local Creativity

The Northern Rivers wouldn’t be itself without

its thriving markets and creative spirit.

Markets:

Spend your weekend wandering through some of the region’s best markets. The Bangalow Market and Yamba River Markets burst to life with artisan stalls, live tunes and gourmet delights. For the foodies, the Byron Bay Farmers Market (Thursday), Bangalow Farmers Market (Saturday) and Ballina Farmers & Producers Market (Sunday) ofer everything from local honey and cofee to fresh fruit, bread and blooms.

Art & Exhibitions:

In Ballina, the Northern Rivers Community Gallery is hosting a joint exhibition with the Byron School of Art through November, showcasing local painters and contemporary works. Across the region, Arts Northern Rivers continues

to fll the calendar with creative workshops, popups and gallery openings — from textiles to photography and sculpture.

Local Gigs:

After dark, the Northern Rivers comes alive with sound. Byron Bay’s pubs, Mullumbimby’s cafes and Lismore’s live-music bars all feature weekend line-ups. Expect laid-back acoustic sets, indie bands, and DJs spinning under the stars. Whether it’s a courtyard performance or a late-night jam, live music is everywhere this week.

Why This Week Is a Standout

The frst week of November brings a perfect blend of coastal culture and country energy. From the Latin rhythms of Byron Bay to the agricultural heart of Murwillumbah, locals and visitors can soak up the full favour of the Northern Rivers — creative, inclusive, and full of heart.

Spring’s warm days and soft evenings make it ideal for outdoor adventures. Whether you’re dancing barefoot in Byron, catching freworks in Murwillumbah, browsing market stalls in Bangalow or clapping along to a band in Ballina, this week captures everything that defnes Northern Rivers life.

The Final Word If there’s ever a time to explore the Northern Rivers, this is it

Between October 30 and November 6, the region ofers world-class festivals, grassroots markets, inspiring art and infectious music — all wrapped in the easygoing charm that makes the North Coast shine. So, mark your diary, gather your friends, and get ready to dance, explore, and celebrate the vibrant pulse of our community. The Northern Rivers has your week sorted — and it’s looking unforgettable.

Byron Theatre Company Unveils 2026 Season: A New Chapter for Regional Storytelling

Byron Theatre Company has announced its 2026 season, deepening its commitment to supporting regional artists and creating new pathways for locally made theatre.

The company’s 2026 program marks an exciting new chapter for the region’s performing arts scene, combining professional training, new work development and a major mainstage production: Tirra Lirra by

the River The season also coincides with the appointment of Bianca Sirianni as Byron Theatre’s frst Creative Producer, a new role overseeing artistic programming, partnerships and projects that expand the Byron Community Centre’s cultural impact and community engagement.

Building on the success of its acclaimed debut, Displace I Call Home,

Byron Theatre Company’s second season strengthens its role as a creative hub where regional artists can learn, collaborate and bring original Australian stories to life.

Ongoing Program – Theatre Makers Masterclass Series

Following a successful 2025 launch, the Theatre Makers Masterclass Series continues in 2026, ofering accessible, high-calibre training with

nationally respected artists.

In 2025, Bangarra dancer Waangenga Blanco led a sold-out workshop on physical storytelling. Acclaimed director and writer Wesley Enoch, now Chair of Creative Australia, will host a masterclass titled Truth in Performance and Connection Through Storytelling on November 22–23

“Acting isn’t just about performance, it’s about community,” says Enoch. “We’ll explore truth-telling, presence and connection — qualities that matter on stage and in life.”

The 2026 Masterclass line-up will be announced early next year, with bookings available via the Byron Theatre website.

dramaturgical support and professional development, with opportunities to progress to full production with Byron Theatre Company.

This initiative addresses a critical gap for regional artists, providing support

Anderson’s classic novel Co-created and codirected by Heather Fairbairn and Kate Wild, and starring acclaimed actor Toni Scanlan (Water Rats), the production spans the 20th century from jazz-age Sydney to postwar London. Using immersive design and audio-visual efects, it delivers a moving meditation on memory, imagination and belonging.

“We are building on the rich tapestry of theatre-making that already exists in the Northern Rivers,” says Creative Producer Bianca Sirianni

New Program – The Storytellers Program Launching in 2026, The Storytellers Program will nurture regional playwrights and theatre makers, guiding new works from page to stage.

Selected participants will receive mentorship,

to develop and present new work locally without the need to relocate to metropolitan centres. Applications open early next year.

New Mainstage Production – Tirra Lirra by the River

In June 2026, Byron Theatre Company will stage Tirra Lirra by the River, a bold new adaptation of Jessica

“My hope is to create experiences that strengthen both audiences and theatre makers, ensuring local stories and talent can thrive right here.”

The 2026 season underscores Byron Theatre Company’s ongoing commitment to developing new work, supporting local talent and building a stronger regional theatre network.

The Brunswick boutique hotel ofers rare Northern Rivers investment opportunity

A rare chance to secure one of the Northern Rivers’ most admired boutique hotels has arrived, with The Brunswick in Brunswick Heads ofcially hitting the market.

CBRE Hotels has launched an Expressions of Interest campaign for the freehold going concern of The Brunswick — a designled, adults-only retreat that has become a landmark of contemporary coastal style and understated luxury since its transformation in 2020.

A standout Northern Rivers retreat

Located at 2-6 Old Pacifc Highway, Brunswick Heads, The Brunswick occupies a 2,478-squaremetre site with dual street frontage and sits just a short walk from the town’s cafés, boutiques, riverfront and pristine surf beaches. Its enviable position, moments from the Brunswick River and only 15 minutes north of Byron Bay, has helped cement its reputation as one of the region’s most desirable coastal getaways.

Originally a classic roadside motel, the property underwent a complete reimagining at the hands of renowned architects Richards & Spence, whose design is celebrated for its elegant, tropical minimalism. The result is an 18-room haven built around a central resort-style pool, framed by lush subtropical landscaping, a guest lounge, spa treatment room, and fexible conference space

Each guest suite showcases a modern yet

relaxed coastal aesthetic — blending timber, concrete, soft linens, and natural light — all carefully designed to create a tranquil adults-only environment.

Approved plans for expansion

The property is being sold with an existing Development Approval (DA) and design concepts by Richards & Spence, allowing for the addition of fve more guest suites, a new restaurant and bar, second swimming pool, and expanded car parking facilities.

This DA-ready expansion presents a signifcant opportunity for investors seeking both immediate income and future growth potential

CBRE Hotels Director Hayley Manvell said The Brunswick represents one of the most compelling regional hospitality investments currently available in Australia.

“The Brunswick is a true standout in the region — a well-established, designdriven boutique hotel with loyal guests, consistent performance, and a clear runway for expansion,” Ms Manvell said.

She noted that the hotel enjoys a stable occupancy of around 70 per cent and commands premium nightly rates, refecting its strong brand position in the coastal luxury segment.

Strong fnancial and locational fundamentals

The Brunswick’s unimproved land value of $3.58 million underpins

proven track record.

“Unlike many similarsized regional assets, The Brunswick is already performing exceptionally well and operating to a high standard. It ofers immediate income with the upside of an approved expansion that enhances both capacity and amenities,” Mr Morris said.

its asset strength, while its operating performance demonstrates resilience in both leisure and corporate markets.

CBRE Hotels Associate Director Taylor Morris said the property has already undergone the “heavy lifting” that many regional motels require, ofering buyers a fully renovated and operational business with a

The property’s location in Brunswick Heads further adds to its investment appeal. The seaside town has maintained its village charm despite growing tourism, and continues to attract visitors seeking an authentic coastal experience. Its proximity to Byron Bay, Ballina Airport, and the Gold Coast ensures a steady stream of domestic and international travellers. Limited supply, strong demand

According to Ms Manvell, supply dynamics across the Brunswick Heads and wider Northern Rivers market remain tight, with minimal new accommodation stock entering the market despite increasing visitor demand.

“There are few, if any, comparable opportunities available along this stretch of coastline,” she said.

“High-quality, design-led accommodation remains in short supply, and demand for adults-only, boutique experiences continues to grow.”

The Brunswick’s rare combination of architectural pedigree, prime location, and development-ready upside positions it as one of the most attractive investment prospects currently available in regional NSW. Expressions of Interest open

The Expressions of Interest campaign, managed by CBRE Hotels’ Hayley Manvell and Taylor Morris, is expected to attract strong local, interstate, and ofshore enquiry from investors seeking a turnkey coastal asset

For co-owner Kylie Anning, the sale represents a chance to pass on a property that has always

refected the essence of Brunswick Heads.

“This place has always had something special. It captures the spirit of the town — relaxed, creative, and deeply connected to the coast,” Ms Anning said.

“Our goal was to honour that character while adding thoughtful design and a sense of calm that guests really respond to.”

With a thriving trading platform, high-performing occupancy, and a DAapproved pathway for growth, The Brunswick stands as one of the most compelling hospitality investment opportunities in the Northern Rivers. Expressions of Interest close Thursday, 20 November 2025 (AEDT), unless sold prior. For more information, contact CBRE Hotels –Hayley Manvell or Taylor Morris.

DIY tax deadline looms as millions yet to lodge returns

Jef Gibbs

Australians who have not yet lodged their 2024–25 tax return are being urged to act fast, with just 12 days remaining before the 31 October deadline for self-lodgers.

Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ) is reminding taxpayers that they must either submit their own return to the Australian Taxation Ofce (ATO) or engage a registered tax agent before the cut-of date.

“Millions of Australians choose to self-lodge their own tax returns, but around 62 per cent rely on the expertise of a tax agent,” said CA ANZ Tax

Don’t

Jef Gibbs

Expert, Susan Franks.

“There are clear benefts to using a Chartered Accountant who works as

a registered tax agent. Not only do you gain more time to prepare, but you also reduce the risk of

costly errors.”

Those who appoint a tax agent by 31 October may qualify for an extended deadline—either 31 March or 15 May next year—depending on their previous tax position.

Ms Franks said the expert guidance of a Chartered Accountant ofers “peace of mind,” ensuring taxpayers comply with ATO rules and maximise legitimate deductions. “Plus, their fee is tax deductible the following year,” she added.

According to ATO fgures, more than two

million Australians have yet to fle their returns.

CA ANZ reminds self-lodgers to follow three golden rules for deductions:

• You must have paid or been charged for the expense (not reimbursed).

• You must have proof, such as receipts or invoices.

• The expense must relate to work, not private or capital use. Missing the deadline can result in penalties or delayed refunds, so taxpayers are urged to act promptly.

Let Your Tax Return Become a Horror Story — Lodge Before Halloween!

As the October 31 tax deadline looms, CPA Australia is warning Australians not to let their tax return turn into a fnancial fright. The message is clear — don’t leave your DIY tax lodgement until the witching hour.

“Don’t let your tax return haunt you,” says Jenny Wong, CPA Australia’s Tax Lead. “We’re all busy and the deadline has crept up on us, but it’s still your responsibility to get it done right and on time.”

Leaving it too late, Ms Wong warns, can lead to mistakes, missed deductions, or even penalties from the Australian Taxation Ofce (ATO). “Cutting corners could mean a less favourable outcome. Worse, scammers thrive

on last-minute panic — so be alert to dodgy texts or emails pretending to be from the ATO.”

For those struggling to make the deadline, CPA Australia reminds taxpayers that registering

with a licensed tax agent by October 31 grants extra time to lodge.

“If your fnances are complex — maybe you’ve got rental income, crypto assets, or side hustles — it’s worth seeking expert advice,” Ms Wong said. “A tax agent ensures accuracy, helps you maximise deductions, and keeps you safe from scam traps.”

CPA Australia’s Top 3 Tips for a Fright-Free Tax Return

1. Don’t Copy and Paste Last Year’s Deductions Check your pre-flled information carefully. Circumstances change — jobs, income, and expenses — so review your details

before submitting. “A grave mistake is copying last year’s fgures,” Ms Wong cautioned.

2. Don’t Rely on Magic — Get Expert Help Complex tax situations deserve professional guidance. CPAs and registered tax agents help navigate deductions and reduce errors while extending your lodgement time.

3. Avoid the Bite of Scams “Scammers are like vampires — they thrive in the shadows and feed on urgency,” Ms Wong warned. Ignore unsolicited ATO messages or links promising large refunds. If in doubt, call the ATO

directly to verify. Key Reminders

• DIY tax deadline: Friday, October 31, 2025

• Using a tax agent? You’ll have more time — but must register with them by October 31

• Missed the deadline? Contact the ATO immediately; penalties start at $330 per 28 days overdue

• Watch for scams: Never click suspicious links or respond to unverifed messages

“Don’t get caught in a web of tax trouble,” Ms Wong added. “Act now — and make this Halloween about treats, not tax tricks.”

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Mongolia

Vast, untamed, and breathtakingly beautiful, Mongolia is a land where horizons stretch forever and nomadic traditions still shape daily life. The adventure begins on the open steppe, where horsemen gallop freely under skies so wide they seem endless. From the rolling dunes of the Gobi Desert to the crystal lakes of Khovsgol, Mongolia’s wilderness invites you to disconnect and rediscover simplicity. Whether sleeping in a traditional ger (yurt), sharing salty milk tea with herders, or watching the Naadam Festival’s ferce competitions, travellers fnd a country as rugged as it is warm-hearted—where time slows and nature reigns supreme.

Top 5 Places to Visit

• Ulaanbaatar – The capital blends modern energy with deep tradition. Visit Gandan Monastery, explore the National Museum, and experience the city’s lively food and arts scene before venturing into the wild.

• Gobi Desert – A mustsee for its faming clifs at Bayanzag, singing sand dunes at Khongoryn

Els, and camel treks with local herders. The desert is alive with colour and silence.

• Khovsgol Lake – Known as the “Blue Pearl of Mongolia,” this northern lake rivals the Alps in beauty. Perfect for hiking, horse riding, or simply enjoying the pristine landscape.

• Orkhon Valley – A UNESCO World Heritage site and the cradle of Mongolian civilisation. Ancient monasteries, waterfalls, and nomadic camps line this lush valley.

• Terelj National Park –Just outside Ulaanbaatar, this park ofers granite clifs, wildfowers, and horseback rides. Don’t miss Turtle Rock and the nearby Aryabal

Meditation Temple.

5 Best Deals and How to Save Money

• Travel in Shoulder Season – Visit in May or September for lower prices and fewer crowds while still enjoying pleasant weather.

• Join Group Tours – Sharing transport and guides for remote regions can halve your costs.

• Stay in Gers –Traditional ger camps are cheaper than hotels and ofer an authentic experience.

• Eat Local – Meals like buuz (dumplings) and khuushuur (fried meat pies) cost just a few dollars.

• Use Local Transport –Long-distance buses and minivans are afordable

alternatives to domestic fights.

5

Essential Travel Tips

• Pack for All Seasons

– Weather can change rapidly; bring layers even in summer.

• Connectivity – Internet and phone coverage outside cities is limited; download maps and carry cash.

• Respect Nomadic Customs – Always accept ofered food or drink politely, even if you just taste it.

• Health Precautions – Bring medication for motion sickness and altitude changes, and

Accommodation Options

• Luxury: Three Camel Lodge (5«, Gobi Desert) –Eco-luxury camp blending comfort with tradition.

• Mid-Range: Khuvsgul Lake Hotel (4« , Ulaanbaatar) – Modern amenities with Mongolian design.

• Budget: Golden Gobi Guesthouse (2« , Ulaanbaatar) – Friendly, central, and perfect for travellers meeting group tours.

Currency & Budget Considerations

The Mongolian Tugrik (MNT) is the local currency. As of 2025, 1 AUD equals roughly 2,200 MNT.

• Budget Travellers: $40–60 AUD per day for hostels, local food, and shared transport.

• Mid-Range Travellers: $90–130 AUD daily for guided tours, private rooms, and national park fees.

• Luxury Travellers: $200+ AUD per day for luxury ger camps, private guides, and domestic fights.

drink only bottled water.

• Cultural Etiquette –Avoid touching people’s heads or pointing your feet toward the family altar inside a ger.

Geting Around

Mongolia’s vast distances demand planning.

Domestic fights connect major destinations like Ulaanbaatar, Dalanzadgad, and Murun. Overland, expect bumpy but adventurous drives on dirt roads—best done by 4WD. Trains along the Trans-Mongolian Railway ofer comfort and stunning views. In rural areas, horses and camels remain timeless modes of transport.

Conclusion

Mongolia is not just a destination—it’s an experience of freedom, nature, and resilience. From sleeping under endless stars to hearing the wind across the steppe, it reawakens the spirit of adventure. For those seeking silence, space, and authenticity, Mongolia’s wild heart beats unlike anywhere else on Earth. 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)

Jef Gibbs

Toyota’s much-anticipated “Mini LandCruiser” — a smaller, rugged 4x4 inspired by the brand’s legendary of-road lineage — appears unlikely to reach Australian shores anytime soon. The vehicle, widely referred to overseas as the Toyota LandCruiser FJ, had stirred excitement among adventure seekers hoping for a compact, afordable of-roader suited to Australian terrain. However, Toyota Australia has confrmed it currently has no plans to introduce the model locally.

A Compact Cruiser with Big Ambitions

Globally, the FJ or “Mini LandCruiser” has been envisioned as a tough, ladder-frame 4WD — smaller than the Prado but retaining true of-road credentials. Measuring around 4.5 metres long and 1.8 metres wide,

it’s roughly the size of a Toyota RAV4 but designed to tackle far tougher conditions.

Reports suggest the model would sit on a shortened version of the Hilux-based IMV platform, featuring lowrange gearing and solid ground clearance. It’s expected to come with either a 2.7-litre fourcylinder petrol engine or a hybrid powertrain, depending on the market. In essence, it was shaping up to be a back-to-basics, no-nonsense of-roader — the spiritual successor to the beloved FJ Cruiser that ended production in 2016. The Mini LandCruiser was also tipped to revive Toyota’s classic utilitarian DNA, focusing on durability, simplicity, and of-road ability over luxury. Many of-road fans had hoped it would rival smaller adventure vehicles like the Suzuki Jimny and Jeep Wrangler.

Why Australia Misses Out

Despite strong public interest, Toyota Australia has poured cold water on local hopes. The company has said “no dialogue about these vehicles for Australia at this point.”

One key reason is compliance. The compact 4WD is believed to be based on versions developed for emerging markets, which may not initially meet Australia’s strict safety and emissions standards. Features like automatic emergency braking (AEB), mandatory for new vehicles since 2023, might not be available across all trims without costly upgrades.

Another factor is model overlap. Toyota already ofers an extensive 4x4 range in Australia — including the LandCruiser 70 Series, Prado (soon to be renamed LandCruiser 250 Series), and the

fagship 300 Series. Adding another LandCruiser variant could risk internal competition or confusion within the lineup. Finally, pricing and production priorities may play a role. While overseas pricing is rumoured to start below AUD $50,000, converting the FJ to Australian specifcations could push it beyond that mark — positioning it too close to the entry-level Prado.

What It Means for Aussie Buyers

For Northern Rivers drivers who love exploring beaches, backroads, and

hinterland trails, the Mini LandCruiser sounded like the perfect companion — small enough for city use, yet capable of the bitumen. Its absence leaves a noticeable gap in Toyota’s local 4x4 ofering. However, alternatives do exist. The upcoming LandCruiser 250 (Prado replacement) promises advanced hybrid options and improved of-road systems. The smaller Corolla Cross AWD and RAV4 Hybrid Adventure models also provide light of-roading ability for those who don’t need lowrange gearing. Meanwhile, rugged compact

4WDs like the Suzuki Jimny continue to gain fans across regional NSW. Will It Ever Come?

Toyota is still evaluating the global rollout of its smaller LandCruiser project, and local approval could eventually follow if demand proves strong. With Australia’s deep 4x4 culture and love of the LandCruiser badge, market pressure may yet sway the decision.

For now, though, the dream of a $60k Mini LandCruiser cruising Northern Rivers trails remains just that — a dream.

How movement powers mental health in older Northern Rivers locals

Mental Health Awareness month

According to recent research, social isolation is one of the leading contributors to depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline among seniors, with living alone tripling the odds of feeling lonely.¹ That’s why in October, Mental Health Awareness Month, aged care charity Feros Care is reminding Australians one of the most powerful medicines for mental health doesn’t come in a bottle – it starts with socialisation and movement.

“Staying socially connected is just as

important as staying physically active as we age,” says Erin Alexias, Feros Care’s Allied Health Manager of Community Services.

“And with more seniors living alone than ever before, the risk of disconnection is growing.”

Across Queensland and northern New South Wales, Feros Care’s Allied Health Group Programs are helping older Australians rediscover movement, music, and connection through innovative classes like Forever Young – a movement-to-music ftness program designed around classic hits from the 60s,

70s, and 80s.

“We build the classes around strength, balance, and coordination, but the social beneft is just as powerful,” explains Ms Alexias.

“Participants dance, laugh, and often head out for cofee together afterwards. It’s become as much about friendship as ftness.”

For many local seniors, life changes like losing a partner, reduced mobility, or no longer being able to drive shrinks socialisation. That’s where access to community and movement

become critical to mental health.

“Research continually shows movement and socialisation are protective factors for mental health,” explains Ms Alexias.

“These programs aren’t just about keeping busy – they’re about feeling seen and valued in the community,” Ms Alexias adds. “That sense of belonging can be lifechanging.”

Building on the success of Forever Young, Feros Care is now developing Chair Yoga classes, to help people manage stress,

pain, and anxiety through movement, which will launch later this year.

“We know how powerfully movement connects the body and mind, so we’re making sure there’s something for everyone – no matter their mobility or comfort level.”

This Mental Health Awareness Month, Feros Care is encouraging Northern Rivers seniors to reach out and become part of the many exercise and social programs in your local community, and to look out for one another.

“Check in on your

neighbour. Join up for a dance or yoga class. Ofer a lift to the local community event,” says Ms Alexias.

For older Australians, movement is about more than muscles – it’s about meaning. Whether it’s dancing to Elvis, stretching in yoga, or joining a walking group, every small step strengthens both body and mind.

If your child is aged under 18, and eligible for Medicare, they may get free dental care through the Child Dental Benefts Schedule (CDBS) at both private and public dental clinics.

WHATS ON THE MENU TONIGHT?

Lamb Shank & Ale Hot Pot

(aka the dish that’ll make your house smell like you hired a professional chef... and possibly a brewery)

Prep Cook Serves

Let’s get one thing straight: this isn’t a quick Tuesday night toss-together. This is the kind of meal you cook when you want to impress someone—or convince them to move in. The lamb shanks slowly simmer in a pool of ale, herbs, and smug self-satisfaction until they’re so tender they fall apart faster than your willpower on a Friday night. The smell alone will have the neighbours “accidentally” popping by with an empty bowl and a suspicious smile.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 4 lamb shanks (about 2kg total)

• 2 large brown onions, sliced

• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, crushed

• 2 tbsp plain four

• 375ml (1½ cups) dark ale (yes, drink the rest)

• 500ml (2 cups) beef stock

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves

• 2 bay leaves

• 1kg potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

• 50g butter, melted

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Method

1 Preheat oven to 170°C (150°C fan-forced). Heat olive oil in a large fameproof casserole dish. Brown the lamb shanks in batches until golden and smug-looking. Remove and set aside.

2 Add onion, carrot, celery and garlic to the same pot. Cook for 5 minutes or until softened and your kitchen smells like a country pub.

3 Stir in four, then pour in ale, scraping up those glorious brown bits of favour. Add stock, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme and bay leaves. Return

lamb to the pot, bring to the boil, then cover and bake for 1½ hours.

4 Remove the lid, top the stew with overlapping potato slices, brush with butter, season with salt and pepper, and bake uncovered for another 45–60 minutes until the potatoes are golden and crisp.

Leftovers

If there are leftovers (you miracle of restraint), reheat with a splash of stock. Serve it over toast or wrap it in puf pastry for an instant “Lamb Shank & Ale Pie” moment. Your future self will thank you—with gravy.

Tips for Success

• Choose a dark ale with personality— something rich and malty, not that watery stuf your uncle drinks.

• Slice your potatoes thin enough to make a proper crust; thick ones will sulk instead of crisping.

• This dish improves the next day—if you can resist it that long.

Easy Chocolate Mint Mousse

H(Because sometimes you just need to feel fancy without actually trying.)

ere’s the deal: this chocolate mint mousse tastes like a fve-star dessert made by someone wearing a chef’s hat and confdence—except you can whip it up in less than half an hour and still have time to binge your favourite show. It’s rich, silky, and cool enough to make your taste buds do a happy dance. The magic combo of chocolate and mint is basically dessert royalty—smooth, creamy cocoa kissed by a refreshing hint of mint that whispers, “I’m classy, but also fun.” Perfect for dinner parties, date nights, or when you’ve had one of those days where the laundry stares back at you with judgment.

Ingredients

• 200g dark chocolate, chopped

• 1 tsp peppermint extract

• 2 cups (500ml) thickened cream, divided

• 2 tbsp icing sugar

• Whipped cream and grated chocolate, to serve

Method

1 Melt chocolate gently in a heatproof bowl over simmering water. Stir in peppermint extract. Cool slightly.

2 Whip 1½ cups cream to soft peaks, then fold in the cooled chocolate.

3 In a separate bowl, whip remaining cream with icing sugar for topping.

4 Spoon mousse into glasses, chill for 1 hour, and crown with minty whipped cream.

Leftovers?

Spread on brownies or freeze it—voilà, instant frozen mousse bliss!

RECENT CATTLE MARKET REPORTS

By The Northern Rivers Times Rural Desk

A total of 1,235 head of prime cattle were yarded at the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange (NRLX) this week, with the market holding frm across most categories. Quality lines of steers, heifers and cows met steady competition from processors and restockers, with prices remaining consistent on previous sales.

Market Overview

The overall sale averaged 342.6c/kg, with top prices reaching 555.2c/kg for prime steers and 442.2c/kg for heifers. The total

WARWICK & DISTRICT LIVESTOCK MARKET REPORT – WEEK ENDING 24

By APL/McDougall & Sons

– The Northern Rivers Times Rural Report

Agents and vendors combined to present 1116 head of cattle and 1679 head of sheep and lambs at the Warwick & District markets this week. Overall, prices held frm across most descriptions, with only minor variations depending on condition and freshness of stock.

Cattle numbers were steady, with processors and restockers maintaining consistent competition. Sheep and lamb categories also held their ground, with demand frm across all classes.

CATTLE MARKET

Yardings totalled 1116 head, averaging $1572.20 per head. The market showed stability, with well-fnished cattle meeting strong demand.

• Bulls averaged 359.5c/kg, topping at 420c/kg ($1546–$4592).

• Cows averaged 339.2c/kg, topping at 396.2c/kg ($1850–$3021).

• Feeder Heifers averaged 366.5c/kg, topping at 416.2c/kg ($1213–$1847).

yarding weighed 379,360kg, returning a sale value of $1,299,546.09

Top-quality bullocks and steers attracted strong demand, with heavy fnished lines selling to 555c/kg, while vealers and

• Feeder Steers averaged 441.85c/kg, topping at 495.2c/kg ($1713–$2250).

• Heifers averaged 387.3c/kg, topping at 429.2c/kg ($1924–$3197).

• Steers averaged 419.1c/kg, topping at 440c/kg ($2416–$3252).

• Vealer Heifers averaged 368.05c/kg, topping at 440.2c/kg ($797–$1342).

• Vealer Steers averaged 423.82c/kg, topping at 492.2c/kg ($761–$929).

• Yearling Heifers averaged 388.87c/kg, topping at 436.2c/kg ($1072–$2311).

• Yearling Steers averaged 442.81c/kg, topping at 510.2c/kg ($1109–$2657).

SHEEP & LAMB MARKET

The sheep and lamb yarding totalled 1679 head, similar to last week. The market remained frm, with steady buying activity from both processors and restockers

• Lambs topped at $310, averaging $193.25 (+$1).

• Hoggets topped at $256, averaging $189.90 (–$4).

• Ram Lambs topped at $237, averaging $138.89 (–$36).

• Ewes topped at $201, averaging $155.63 (+$8).

• Wethers topped at $215, averaging $137.31 (–$6).

• Rams topped at $280, averaging $183.81 (–$3).

younger cattle met frm rates, particularly those suited to feeder buyers.

Cows and bulls were well supported, averaging 327c/kg and 342c/kg respectively, as processors continued to

The overall average across all categories was $182.18 per head, up $1 week-on-week

APL/McDOUGALL SHEEP & LAMB REPORT

Agents reported a steady sale, supported by consistent buying from local and interstate processors. Light stock made up a slightly higher proportion of the yarding this week, yet prices remained on par with recent rates.

Top Sales Highlights:

• Gall Holdings – Ewes to Eversons for $190, Hoggets (62.5kg) to Eversons for $236, Lambs (58.3kg) to Warwick Meats for $270

• Reilly Pastoral Co – Dorper lambs (53.7kg) to Warwick Meats for $266, (49.3kg) to Leslie Lamb for $259

• Mason Family – 50kg Dorper lambs to Tony’s Supa Meats for $274

• Geof & Rosemary Gibson – Merino hoggets (46.2kg) to restockers for $134, Lambs (40–42kg) to restockers/ GR Prime for $130–$134

• Greg & Clancy McGahan – Dorper ewes to Eversons for $171

• Rubie Family – Poll Dorset lambs (77.5kg) to Eversons for $310, lighter lambs (51.7kg) to restockers for $260

compete for well-conditioned stock. Heifers presented in good supply, averaging 320.9c/kg, while top lines of vealers sold to 448.2c/kg, refecting strong restocker demand.

Cows & Calves

A smaller ofering of cows and calves saw prices range from $950 to $2,300, averaging $1,850 per unit.

Market Summary

Agents Bartholomew & Co reported a lighter yarding at Beaudesert, with vendors holding stock in anticipation of rain. Despite the smaller numbers, restocker steers and quality replacement heifers held frm across all categories.

Top of the sale went to Klemley Pty

Ltd, Benobble , with Santa x steers (20 months) selling for $1,810 . Other standout results included Millerwood Droughtmasters, Fassifern Valley, with 15-month-old Droughtmaster steers reaching $1,450, and Carinya Queensland, Bigriggan , whose Droughtmaster cross steers made $1,400. Peter Day, Josephville , sold Droughtmaster x steers for $1,380, while Wayne Gehrke, Grandchester , achieved

$1,230 for 12-month-old Charolais x steers. Porttel Pty Ltd, Darlington, sold Angus x steers for $1,200, and Early Storms Pastoral, Canungra , saw Brahman x steers make $1,010.

Weaner steers sold to strong demand, with Trevor Family Trust selling Senepol x for $1,020, and Lindsay and Julie Grantz, Ormeau , achieving $1,000 for Charolais x weaners.

Heifer prices were similarly consistent,

Despite fuctuating conditions in some markets, the NRLX sale remained frm overall, demonstrating consistent buyer confdence. Total sale throughput of 379 tonnes refected a stable yarding for late October, with most categories maintaining parity with last week’s results.

• Phil Deveraux – Dorset-cross lambs (67.5kg) to Eversons for $310, Ewes to Eversons for $193

• Poggio Family Trust – Dorper lambs (45–46kg) to McMahon Bros for $231–$234, Hoggets (50.4kg) to Eversons for $243

• Dugald & Jenny Spencely – Dorper lambs (48.8kg) to GR Prime for $239, Ewes to Eversons for $170

• Mt Pleasant Primary Production – Sufolk ewe and lamb units to restockers for $290

POULTRY & PORK

Numbers were steady with frm rates across categories.

• Roosters to $18.60, Hens and Pullets to $30, Silkys to $22.50, and chick groups to $22.50

• Pork: Sows from $126–$200, Baconers to $360, Pork to $372, Stores from $66–$210

Summary

Both the cattle and sheep markets remain resilient and stable, refecting confdence among vendors and buyers. While lighter and older stock continue to see some adjustments, fresh, wellfnished lines are commanding strong demand heading into late October.

with Santa heifers (18 months) from Klemley Pty Ltd topping at $1,420 Droughtmaster heifers made $1,330 for Peter Day , while K & G Contractors, Hillview , sold Brahman heifers for $1,190. Cows and calves also attracted solid competition, highlighted by Millerwood Droughtmasters ’ cow selling for $2,000 The next Beaudesert Store Sale will be held Saturday, 8 November, from 9:30am. NRLX PRIME CATTLE MARKET REPORT – 22

Suspected H5 Bird Flu Detected in Elephant Seals on Remote Australian Territory

Ian Rogers

Australian scientists have reported signs consistent with the H5 strain of avian infuenza, commonly known as bird fu, in elephant seals on the remote sub-Antarctic Heard Island. The discovery, while not yet confrmed, highlights the importance of maintaining vigilance against potential outbreaks.

The observations were made by researchers from the Australian Antarctic Program during a recent environmental management voyage aboard the RSV Nuyina The team recorded unusual mortality levels among the island’s elephant seal population, though other species such as penguins and seabirds appeared unafected.

Heard Island, located more than 4,000 kilometres southwest of Perth and around 1,700 kilometres north of Antarctica, is one of Australia’s most isolated territories. Despite the suspected cases, authorities say the risk to mainland Australia remains low.

“Australia continues to be the only continent free from the highly contagious H5 strain,” the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) and the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) said in a joint statement. “A confrmed detection on Heard Island would not substantially

increase the risk to Australia.”

The fndings are not entirely unexpected, as the H5 virus has previously been detected on nearby French territories—the Kerguelen and Crozet Islands—located less than 450 kilometres from Heard and McDonald Islands.

Samples from the afected wildlife have

been safely collected and packaged following strict International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations. They will be transported to the CSIRO Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness for confrmatory testing once the RSV Nuyina returns to Australia in midNovember. Results are

expected to take several weeks.

The Australian Government has been proactive in preparing for potential outbreaks, investing more than $100 million to strengthen national bird fu preparedness and response systems.

“This detection underlines the need

to remain vigilant,” the departments said, noting that continuous monitoring and biosecurity readiness remain critical to protecting Australia’s wildlife and agricultural sectors.

For more information on avian infuenza preparedness and ongoing monitoring, visit birdfu. gov.au

National Ag Day Photo and Video Competition Opens for 2025

Ian Rogers

The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has ofcially launched the 2025 National Agriculture Day photo and video competition, ofering Australians the chance to celebrate life on the land and share in $5,000 in cash prizes.

With just under a month until Ag Day on Friday, 21 November, entries are now open for the popular annual contest, proudly sponsored by Syngenta. This year’s theme, “Stand with the Land,” invites Australians of all ages to showcase what agriculture means to them—whether through the lens of a camera, drone, or smartphone.

NFF President Hamish McIntyre said the competition continues to be a highlight of Ag Day celebrations nationwide.

“Every year we’re blown away by the creativity

and passion that shines through in these entries,”

Mr McIntyre said. “It’s a chance for everyone to show the world why agriculture is at the heart of our communities.”

The competition welcomes entries from all skill levels, with $2,000 for frst place, $1,000 for second, and four runnerup prizes of $500 each.

Entries can be submitted online at agday.org.au/ photography-videocompetition before 5pm AEDT on Ag Day, Friday 21 November 2025

Participants are encouraged to share their photos and videos on social media using the hashtag #AgDayAU, joining a nationwide

celebration of rural life, hard work, and the people who feed and clothe Australia.

National Agriculture Day isn’t just about competition—it’s a day for everyone to get involved. Australians can celebrate by hosting or attending an event, wearing Ag Day merchandise, or simply sharing their appreciation for farmers online. Even something as small as a morning tea with colleagues or friends helps honour the people who make Australian agriculture thrive. Farmers are also encouraged to “open their gate” on social media and share what’s happening on their properties to help

connect urban and rural communities.

Last year’s winners captured stunning moments from across the country, including Bronte Tremlett’s Race to the Esky from Limbunya Station, NT, which took out frst place, and

Tamara Ward’s Grow Ewe Beaut One! from Tincurrin, WA, which placed second.

Other 2024 winners included entries such as Canola – Grow You Good Thing (SA), Future Farmer Monty (Qld), Stand Out (WA), and

Nothing Runs Like a Deere (NSW), all of which highlighted the diversity and spirit of Australian farming life. For inspiration, celebration ideas, and to enter this year’s competition, visit agday. org.au

110 Tevan Road, Ballina

sales@bbtimbers.com.au www.bbtimbersballina.com.au

Emerging Ag Leaders Graduate in Canberra

Ian Rogers

A new generation of women in agriculture has taken the next step in their leadership journeys, with twelve graduates completing the 2025 Diversity in Agriculture Leadership Program at a ceremony in Canberra this week.

Run by the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) and backed by a broad coalition of industry and corporate partners, the program aims to increase women’s representation in agricultural leadership and decision-making roles across Australia.

Over six months, the participants engaged in high-level leadership training, met with federal politicians, visited Parliament House, and worked closely with experienced mentors from leading agricultural organisations.

At the graduation dinner, participants refected on the transformative nature of the program.

Graduate Bronwyn Venus described it as life-

changing:

“The Diversity in Agriculture Leadership Program, and my mentor, helped me turn conviction into action and leadership into impact, reminding me that growth happens when you’re both challenged and supported.”

Fellow graduate Karen Penfold said the experience had been “immeasurable”.

“I have been absolutely honoured to share this year’s program with a dynamic, inspiring group of women who have enriched my network.”

Monumental Win for Farmers as Government Backs Down on ‘Super Tax’

Ian Rogers

Australian farmers are celebrating a major victory after the Federal Government announced it will revise its controversial ‘Super Tax’ proposal following persistent advocacy from the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) and allied agricultural groups.

Under the revised plan, the tax will now apply only to realised earnings, and the superannuation balance thresholds will be indexed, addressing widespread concern that the original policy unfairly targeted family farms and small businesses.

NFF President David Jochinke said the decision represents “a monumental win for farmers, small business, and commonsense.”

“The policy would have had serious unintended consequences for thousands of family farms and small businesses who hold property in Self-Managed Superannuation Funds as part of their succession plans,” Mr Jochinke said.

“From the beginning, we’ve said this policy of taxing unrealised gains risked family farm businesses. The Government has listened, and we thank them for that. Farmers can now plan for

the future with confdence, knowing their hard work and succession plans are safe from this unfair tax.”

The NFF has led a twoyear campaign against the proposal, building a powerful coalition across the small and family business sectors. Their central argument was that taxing unrealised gains could have crippled farming operations reliant on longterm asset growth rather than short-term cash fow.

GrainGrowers Chair Rhys Turton said economic modelling underscored the scale of the problem.

“More than 3,500 selfmanaged super funds holding farming land would

have been impacted from day one, with another 14,000 at risk as property values increased,” Mr Turton said.

“Today’s decision was the right one. We now look forward to continuing to work constructively with the Government on fair, practical policies that support long-term investment and succession planning.”

NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin welcomed the announcement as “a huge relief for farming families who’ve been staring down the barrel of a tax that never should’ve applied to them in the frst place.”

NFF Interim Chief Executive Su McCluskey commended the cohort’s passion and drive.

“The NFF is passionate about advancing leadership opportunities for women in agriculture,” she said. “This program, its mentors, and its participants are forging new paths in the ag leadership space. I have no doubt this is just the start of an amazing journey for this cohort.”

Now in its eighth year, the program has produced more than 80 graduates, many of whom have gone on to hold leadership roles within peak industry bodies, government, and agribusiness.

The 2025 graduates came from across the country, including New South Wales,

Queensland, Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia and the Northern Territory. Mentors represented major industry and corporate partners such as Telstra, Rabobank, Woolworths, Prime Super, NBN, AgForce Queensland, Syngenta, and the Australian Farm Institute The Diversity in Agriculture Leadership Program continues to build on the NFF’s vision of achieving 50:50 gender representation in agriculture by 2030 , empowering women to take on visible and infuential roles across the sector.

For more information on the program and its graduates, visit the NFF Media Centre or nf.org. au

“Farmers plan long term—in decades, not fnancial years—and this decision gives them the confdence to keep building farm businesses for the next generation,” Mr Martin said.

Australian Dairy Farmers President Ben Bennett agreed, saying the reversal highlights the power of a united agricultural voice.

“This outcome shows what can be achieved when agriculture stands

together and sticks to the facts,” he said. “It’s a great result for farmers and small businesses right across the country. The Government’s willingness to listen and act means more certainty for family-owned farms to invest and plan for the future.”

For rural Australia, the decision represents not just a policy correction, but a reafrmation of the essential role farming families play in the nation’s economy and communities.

$2.1 Million Boost to Combat Pests and Weeds Across NSW

Ian Rogers

The Minns Labor Government has announced $2.1 million in funding for 17 new on-ground projects aimed at tackling some of New South Wales’ most persistent pest and weed problems — from wild dogs and feral pigs to tropical soda apple, harrisia cactus, and feral deer

The investment is part of the $10 million Good Neighbours Program, a key election commitment focused on strengthening biosecurity and protecting the state’s primary industries, farmlands, and natural ecosystems.

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said the new projects would continue the momentum of earlier rounds that have already delivered measurable results.

“Pest animals and weeds don’t respect property boundaries,” Ms Moriarty said. “That’s why the Minns Government is investing in new and expanded biosecurity programs to protect farms and the environment through collaboration between public and private landholders.”

The latest round includes strategic pest management, weed eradication, and capacitybuilding workshops for land managers, coordinated through Local Land Services, Forestry

Corporation, National Parks and Wildlife Service, Crown Lands, and local councils

Key projects include:

• Improving wild dog management across the Central Tablelands.

• Reducing feral pig

impacts along the Mid North Coast.

• Minimising threats to endangered coastal emu populations in the Clarence region.

• Controlling tropical soda apple across the North Coast and Northern Tablelands.

• Managing pests in Central Tablelands state forests in collaboration with Forestry Corporation.

• Protecting the Ramsarlisted Caryapundy Swamp near Tibooburra from pest and weed threats.

• Reducing the spread of harrisia cactus on agricultural land in the Warren Shire.

• Improving statewide biosecurity management on Crown Lands. Strong results already underway

The frst round of Good Neighbours projects, worth $4.25 million, has already protected more than 55,000

hectares in western NSW and removed tropical soda apple across 1,500 hectares of North Coast land.

Programs like the Feral Pig Management Program at Bathurst have brought together nearly 50 landholders to target invasive species collaboratively across public and private land.

“We’re already seeing stronger relationships between landholders and land managers,” Ms Moriarty said. “These projects are achieving real results on the ground — reducing pest numbers, protecting farms, and improving environmental health.”

The Good Neighbours Program will deliver 36 projects in total across NSW

For more information and the full list of initiatives, visit: nsw.gov.au/goodneighbours

Rainfall Brings Relief to Parts of Australia, Including Northern Rivers, But Dry Risks Persist

By The Northern Rivers Times Rural Desk

Parts of the NSW Northern Rivers joined regions across northern, eastern and southern Australia in receiving scattered rainfall last week, as cold fronts and lowpressure troughs moved through the country. The latest ABARES Climate, Water and Agricultural Update for the week

ending 22 October 2025 reports variable rainfall across cropping regions, with totals reaching up to 50 millimetres in some areas.

In the Northern Rivers and northern New South Wales, the rainfall provided a timely boost to soil moisture, aiding pasture recovery and early summer planting

. However, northern Victoria and southern NSW remain notably dry, where ongoing rainfall defcits continue to threaten pastures and winter crops nearing harvest.

ABARES noted that while the rain may have slowed winter crop harvesting

in parts of Queensland and northern NSW, it also supported strong conditions for summer crop establishment, particularly for sorghum and maize producers. In South Australia and western Victoria, falls have improved soil moisture levels and should help maintain late-season grain and pasture quality

Looking ahead, the eight-day outlook to 30 October suggests further rain across much of southern and eastern Australia. However, southwestern Queensland, north-western NSW and large parts of Western Australia are expected to remain mostly dry. For some cropping areas, the forecast rainfall could ofer welcome late-season moisture, though in drier regions it may arrive too late to prevent yield losses

The national outlook for November 2025 to January 2026 ofers a more positive picture.

ABARES projects an increased likelihood of above-median rainfall across much of eastern

Australia — including the Northern Rivers — which would encourage summer pasture growth and help restore soil moisture reserves depleted over recent months.

Water security, however, remains a concern.

Murray–Darling Basin (MDB) storage levels dropped by 158 gigalitres

(GL) in the week to 23 October, leaving total holdings at 15,104 GL or 68% of capacity — down 12% from this time last year. The Bureau of Meteorology reports that this decline continues a steady drawdown trend across the Basin as irrigation demand rises. Water trading conditions

also shifted slightly.

Allocation prices in the Victorian Murray below the Barmah Choke eased from $319/ML to $316/ ML over the week. Trade from the Goulburn to the Murray and downstream through the Barmah Choke remains closed, while trade from the Murrumbidgee to the

Murray remains open. For Northern Rivers farmers, the combination of recent rainfall and a positive summer outlook brings cautious optimism. Improved soil conditions should beneft pasture regrowth and early planting, ofering some relief after an inconsistent start to spring.

Independent Tribunal Launches Review into WaterNSW Pricing Amid Farmer Concerns

Ian Rogers

The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) has ofcially launched a comprehensive review into WaterNSW’s rural water pricing and cost-sharing structure, following persistent calls from the NSW Irrigators’ Council (NSWIC).

The review, which began with stakeholder consultation last week, will determine new water prices for NSW rural valleys from 1 July 2026. It aims to address mounting concerns from farmers who say escalating charges are threatening the viability of irrigated agriculture and pushing up the cost of local produce.

NSWIC Chief Executive Ofcer Dr Madeleine Hartley welcomed the announcement, saying the move refects years of advocacy from irrigators demanding greater fairness in how water prices are set.

“NSWIC and its members have consistently advocated for a wholesale pricing review of WaterNSW,” Dr Hartley said. “We are pleased to see that recommendation adopted, paving the way for a thorough review that can help ensure fair and afordable water access for irrigators.”

The latest price hike in June 2025 saw an 8.3% increase across most NSW rural valleys — the latest in a trend that has farmers increasingly worried. “This increase is another heavy burden for farmers already grappling with soaring input costs,

high interest rates, and the ongoing impacts of foods and drought,” Dr Hartley added.

IPART’s own analysis highlights that WaterNSW’s base operating costs per unit of water entitlement have surged 49% between 2014–15 and 2024–25. Since 2017, WaterNSW has exceeded both its capital and operational expenditure allowances set by IPART, with many projects reportedly lacking sufcient business cases or cost–beneft analysis.

“WaterNSW revenue requirements are ballooning faster than the capacity of its customers to pay more. This is not a sustainable business model by any measure,” Dr Hartley warned. “Cost-sharing arrangements must be reviewed and cost-drivers assessed.”

IPART has acknowledged the urgency of ensuring access to safe, reliable and afordable water, recognising it as essential for rural communities, environmental management, and the state’s agricultural economy. The consultation and review process is seen as a vital step toward restoring confdence and fairness in water pricing.

Looking ahead, NSWIC hopes IPART will apply similar scrutiny to the Water Administration Ministerial Corporation during its scheduled 2028 review, continuing eforts to achieve long-term pricing transparency and accountability in the state’s water sector.

GM Banana Breakthrough Offers Lifeline for Australia’s Banana Industry

Ian Rogers

A major scientifc breakthrough from Queensland University of Technology (QUT) could secure the future of Australia’s banana industry — and ofer vital protection for growers across the Northern Rivers and beyond.

Researchers have developed a genetically modifed banana, called QCAV-4, that is resistant to the devastating soilborne fungus responsible for Panama disease tropical race 4 (TR4) This fungus has destroyed banana plantations across Asia and the Pacifc, and poses an ongoing threat to Australia’s $1.3 billion banana industry.

The QCAV-4 variety was created by inserting a single resistance gene,

RGA2, from a wild banana species into the popular Cavendish banana. Field trials conducted in the Northern Territory — under extreme TR4 exposure — revealed that QCAV-4 plants remained healthy while regular Cavendish varieties were wiped out.

The Australian Government’s food safety authority has since approved QCAV-4 for both cultivation and consumption, confrming that it is as safe and nutritious as conventional bananas.

QUT’s Professor James Dale, who led the research

team, described the GM banana as a “safety net” for growers, ensuring that banana production can continue even if TR4 spreads further across the country. He noted that while strict biosecurity measures have so far kept the disease largely contained in northern

Queensland, having a resistant variety available ofers crucial long-term protection.

For the Northern Rivers region, where smaller banana farms contribute to local supply and agricultural diversity, the innovation provides peace of mind. With changing weather patterns, warmer winters, and increased biosecurity risks, a TR4resistant banana could help safeguard both

livelihoods and regional food resilience.

Although the QCAV-4 won’t immediately replace current commercial bananas, its development marks a signifcant step forward in the global fght against crop-destroying plant diseases. Scientists are now exploring similar gene-editing techniques to protect bananas from other major threats such as black Sigatoka and Fusarium wilt.

What is Panama Disease TR4?

Panama disease tropical race 4 is caused by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense. It infects banana roots, blocking water fow and causing plants to wilt and die. The fungus can survive in soil for decades, making it nearly impossible to eradicate once established. Strict hygiene and farm quarantine are currently the best defences — until resistant varieties like QCAV-4 become widely available.

Edible Gardens Go Ornamental:

Beauty Meets the Harvest in Northern Rivers Backyards

Jef Gibbs

Across the Northern Rivers, home gardeners are blurring the lines between the vegetable patch and the fower bed. A growing trend known as “edimental gardening” — where edible plants double as ornamentals — is reshaping how locals think about food, sustainability, and aesthetics. From Cofs Harbour to Coolangatta and west to Kyogle, gardeners are creating spaces that are both productive and beautiful.

Blending Beauty and Function

Gone are the days when veggie gardens were hidden behind the shed. Today’s gardeners are bringing colour, texture, and favour into full view. Think ruby chard alongside marigolds, purple basil framing a garden path, and vibrant nasturtiums spilling from raised beds. These plants not only provide fresh produce but also attract pollinators and benefcial insects, improving overall garden health.

• Rainbow chard – with stems in red, yellow, and orange, it’s as striking as any fower.

“Plants like kale, chilli, pineapple sage, and Thai basil thrive here,” she explains. “They ofer lush foliage, striking colours, and the bonus of something delicious to eat. It’s all about working smarter with what grows naturally in our environment.”

Popular Edimental Choices

Northern Rivers horticulturalist and landscape designer, Katrina Bell, says the region’s subtropical climate is perfect for ornamental edibles.

Some of the standout plants for an ornamental edible garden include:

• Purple basil – aromatic and richly coloured, perfect for borders.

• Nasturtiums – their bright fowers are edible and attract bees.

• Roselle hibiscus – produces stunning red calyces ideal for teas and jams.

• Heritage chillies and peppers – add shape, colour, and spice to a sunny spot.

• Sweet potato vines – fastgrowing, great for ground cover, and easy to harvest. These plants blend seamlessly with ornamental shrubs and fowering natives, making them ideal for small urban spaces or rural homesteads.

Designing for Colour and Yield

To create a thriving edible-ornamental garden, mix foliage textures and plant heights for visual balance. Use herbs like rosemary, oregano, and

lemongrass as structural elements or hedges. Incorporate fowering plants to ensure pollination and maintain soil health through seasonal rotation and companion planting.

Raised garden beds or terraced layouts can highlight colours while improving drainage during wet Northern Rivers summers. Adding a few garden ornaments or recycled containers gives a creative, rustic charm.

Sustainability and Local Pride

Beyond beauty, edimental gardens refect a growing local commitment to sustainable living. With rising grocery prices and increasing awareness of food miles, Northern Rivers residents are embracing the joy of growing what they eat — and doing it beautifully.

As Katrina Bell notes, “When your garden looks good enough to show of and tastes even better, you’ll never go back to plain lawns again.”

Casino Boolangle Local Aboriginal Land Council

General

Notice

Date: 4th November 2025

Venue: Casino Community Centre, Walker Street Casino Time: 5pm

Please contact Casino Boolangle LALC during business hours if you require further information on 66626286 or 0468 993 517

Authorised: Gloria Torrens, Chairperson.

Notice is hereby given of a

Date: 12th November 2025

Venue: Casino Community Centre, Walker Street Casino Time: 5pm Annual General Meeting Notice

GOT STUFF TO SELL? Why let it gather dust in the shed when it could be cash in your pocket?

From lawnmowers to lounge suites, fshing rods to fridges — if you’ve got it, someone in the Northern Rivers wants it.

Stick your ad in The Northern Rivers Times Classifeds and let thousands of locals know what you’ve got up for grabs. It’s easier than a Sunday arvo BBQ — and way more proftable. Call our classifeds team today. 1300 679 787 The Northern Rivers Times — where your stuff fnds a new home (and you pocket the cash).

We are called Plateau Quilters Alstonville we meet the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the Month at the RSL Hall Alstonville from 1pm until 4pm New members would be most welcome. Bonner 66298267

ALSTONVILLE PROBUS CLUB

Alstonville Probus Club meets on the last Thursday of each month at Plateau Sports Club at 10.00 am. This commences with a cupper and chat, with the formal meeting commencing at 10.30 which includes an interesting guest speaker. All visitors are welcome.

ALSTONVILLE QUOTA CLUB

A local women’s service club that meets on the 1st Tuesday of the month at the Plateau Sports Club. Quota is committed to supporting and improving the physical and mental wellbeing of the disadvantaged in our community through local projects.

EMBROIDERERS GROUP

Meetings are 9.30am-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 exService persons are welcome to attend, and we have a convivial morning tea on completion of the meeting. Alston suppliers and ranch have a ‘Lower Deck Luncheon’ at 1200 each Friday, everyone is welcome, we sit out the back of the Hall, order lunch from local suppliers, and have great conversations with good mates. There is always plenty of support & advice on any issue!

BALLINA

Australian Independent Retirees

Please note that the usual meeting of Australian Independent Retirees will not be held on the first Friday of November but has been transferred to the second Friday because of other groups meeting on 7th. We will meet as usual at the Ballina RSL Club, 1 Grant street, Ballina on Friday 14 November 2025, with friendship commencing at 9.30am for a 10.00am meeting. The guest speaker will be Geo Hutchinson, who will be giving us a step back in time to the mid 1800's. should be very interesting. Any enquiries to the President, Mrs Jill Huxley 6686 8958."

BALLINA COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB LIVE COUNTRY MUSIC DAYS of the Ballina Country Music Club happen on the first Sunday of every month except January. The November Live Music Day is on Sunday, 2 November at Ballina RSL Club, Grant Street, Ballina, starting at 10.00 am.

“Smokehouse” one of our popular regular bands, will be playing. Julieanne Lock is the feature Showcase Artist. And there are many regular and some visiting Walk Up Artists. The experienced line dancers demonstrate their skills and others take to the floor dancing however they want! There are great ra le and lucky door prizes, as well as Club members’ and Walk Up Artists’ draws. Come along and enjoy the company and music.

BALLINA LADIES PROBUS

The Ballina Ladies Probus Club meets on the first Wednesday of each month at 10:00 am. Please note that due to the unavailability of our usual venue, our November meeting will be held at the Crowley Education Centre on Wednesday, November 5. We’re delighted to welcome Guest Speaker Michelle Ryan, Senior Therapy Consultant at Niagara, a company specialising in medical therapy techniques that support blood flow, mobility, and relief from oedema. Following the meeting, many of us will continue the conversation over lunch. Don’t miss our fun-filled shopping trip to Robina on Wednesday, November 12—a perfect opportunity to grab a bargain, enjoy a day out, and share plenty of laughs. The cost is just $35 for the bus, with pick-ups at 8:45 am in Alstonville main street, and 9:00 am at the Ballina RSL. We still have vacancies on the bus, so why not join us? We also currently have vacancies for new members and warmly welcome visitors to come along to a meeting or outing. Join us for friendship, fun, and fellowship at our monthly meetings, social outings, and special events. For more information, please contact our President, Jeanette, on 0407 417 470.

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 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.

BALLINA FREE COMMUNITY HOT BRUNCH

Ballina Free Community Hot Brunch, First Saturday of each month. Everyone is invited to come and enjoy a hot brunch of sausages, rissoles bacon & eggs, cereal, tea and 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

CASINO

CWA Casino Day

Our next meeting is Thursday 13th November (2nd Thursday of the month) at the Casino Community & Cultural Centre. The Land Cookery entries for November are a Chocolate Butter Cake, Gluten Free Magic Bean Cake and the Apple & Cranberry Chutney (recipe supplied). All cookery/recipe enquiries – Ellie Maloney 0421595398. Everyone is welcome, come and have a cuppa see what we are doing in our community Enq ;Jennifer 0438932060, Jane 0427 707 669.

WINDARA

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.

DYRAABA HALL BUS TRIP

The Dyraaba Hall committee will host a bus trip to Robina Shopping centre on Saturday 22nd November. Cost is $30 and includes morning tea. There will also be ra les. Bus departs Dyraaba Hall 7am, Charcoal cnr. 7:20 and Casino Post O ice 7:30am. We can also pick up in Lismore. Bookings and enquiries PH. Veronica on 66671101. All profits after expenses will go towards the maintenance of the hall.

Fairy Hill Craft group meets again on Thursday 6th November, 10 a.m. at the Fairy Hill Hall on the Summerland Way. As well as working on our usual craft projects, we will have a shared lunch and "mad" hat day. Please bring a plate to share and wear a "mad/ funny / silly hat" related to the Horse Racing theme. We're too late for the Melbourne Cup but Nov 6 is VRC Oaks Day (aka Ladies Day). Ph 66633233 for more details.

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

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 WEEK 1

MONDAY

D.Clarke & D.Allen

R.Baker

TUESDAY

C.Connor

WEDNESDAY

J. & J. Boyd

K.Bratti & K.Yates

THURSDAY

H.Mo itt & J.Hanna

FRIDAY

L. Dorrington & S.Forrester

R. & D. Lee

CASINO COMMUNITY MEN’S SHED

Mon, Tues, Wed, attendance limited to 50 members, 8am-1.30pm. Contact 66626423

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

Cassino Gallery Inc.

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

CASINO LADIES AND FRIEND CRAFT GROUP

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

Casino & District Orchid Society Meet the 4th Thursday each month. At St Marks Anglican Hall @ 6:30pm

CASINO MINI RAIL

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 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 member’s 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 SENIOR CITIZENS

Grafton Senior Citizens recently held their October meeting, attendance 33 apologies 8. No guest speaker, some jokes read in lieu. New members: Glenn Richards; Sue Adams; Ken Long; Judy Foster. Deceased: sympathy to Robyn Jackson on death of brother. Correspondence: In, letters from Westlawn Investments, Red Cross, new South Grafton aged care, Richie Williamson on Seniors week. Out, sympathy cards, welcome letter, letters to membership enquiry. Coach Trips: Next day trip to Evans Head area, 14 Nov, 40 already booked. Trips for next year now being considered. Christmas lunch: now on sale, $25,2 course meal, & entertainment. General Business: grocery items for Christmas party competition welcome; next newsletter to be distributed, November meeting; latest scams mentioned. Meeting competition winners: J. Ireland; Y. Cooney; D. Handley; J. Johnson; P. Cooke; D. Baker; J. Preston; A. Ellem. Next meeting: 10am, Tuesday, 11 November. Guest speaker to be confirmed. Enquiries: Sandra, 6642 7720 or 44fi 464 946.

GRAFTON AL-ANON FAMILY

Our meetings are held weekly on Tuesdays at 12md – 1.30pm at the Salvation Army Hall, 91-93 Oliver Street, Grafton. Meetings are always confidential. The Al-Anon Family Groups are a fellowship of relatives and friends of Alcoholics who share their experience, strength, and hope in order to solve their common problems. We believe alcoholism is a family illness and that changed attitudes can aid recovery. Al-Anon is not allied with any sect, denomination,

political entity, organization, or institution; does not engage in any controversy neither endorses nor opposes any cause. There are no dues for membership. Al-Anon is self-supporting through its own voluntary contributions. Al-Anon has but one purpose: to help families of alcoholics. We do this by practicing the Twelve Steps, by welcoming and giving comfort to families and friends of alcoholics and by giving understanding and encouragement to the alcoholic. For further information or to talk to a member in confidence call 1300 252 666

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

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 21st of November 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

NORTHERN RIVERS EVENING PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

The next meeting of the Northern Rivers Evening Prostate Cancer Support Group is to be held on Wednesday November 5th – 7pm until 9 pm at the LISMORE WORKERS MAIN CLUB – KEEN STREET, LISMORE Men previously and newly diagnosed with prostate cancer are urged to join with the group to experience the personal cancer stories told which give a great opportunity for all to share, learn and benefit from each other – Partners and Carers are also most welcome to attend as family are very much involved with the process and treatment of those with this diagnosis GUEST SPEAKER – Peter Wilson – Naturopath Enquiries phone Bob Johnson (02) 6622 5792

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. 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 afterschool activities called Library Afterschool. This term, we invite local children to get involved in PAPERCRAFT and LEGO activities. All sessions will be fun, free, 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 mindfulnessbased meditation group sits on Wednesdays from 7:008:30pm. The evening includes meditation instructions, sitting and walking meditation, Dharma talks and discussion. For further details, please contact Rosie – 0402 682 925. Beginners and experienced meditations are warmly welcomed.

ZEN MEDITATION and practice The Zen meditation group sits on Mondays from 6:30pm-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.

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, 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#FRIDAYThe Bangalow meeting meets in person on the FIRST and THIRD FRIDAY of the month at 1.00 – 2.30 pm at 17 Station St, Bangalow, (Bangalow Uniting Church, parking next to the Church.SUNDAY4:00 pm CHINDERAH Seventh Day Adventist Church, 83 Phillip St.

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

The New England Garden Festival & Garden Trail. Commencing 30th Oct to 2 Nov. The open gardens and trails are in Tenterfield, Glen Innes, Uralla & Armidale. For the full program, maps & further info go to our website

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS If you’re looking for help to stop drinking, you can reach out to Alcoholics Anonymous 24 hours a day. Our phone line is always answered by someone who’s been where you are – an alcoholic in recovery. We understand the challengers, and we know we’re the right people to help you. You can call AA anytime on 1300 22 22 22.

WEATHER

FORECAST

Northern Rivers District:

Cloudy. High chance of showers, most likely in the morning. The chance of a storm in the evening. Winds southerly 15 to 25 km/h tending southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h during the day then becoming light during the evening.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the afternoon and evening. The chance of a storm in the afternoon and evening. Light winds becoming east to northeasterly 15 to 20 km/h during the afternoon then becoming light during the evening. Northern Tablelands District: Cloudy. High chance of showers. The chance of a storm in the afternoon and evening. Winds east to southeasterly 20 to 30

km/h tending northeast to southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h during the morning then becoming light during the afternoon.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. The chance of morning fog in the south. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the morning and afternoon. The chance of a storm in the afternoon and evening. Light winds becoming west to northwesterly 15 to 20 km/h during the morning then becoming light during the evening.

New South Wales:

Isolated showers in eastern areas. Storms possible across the northeast quarter. Partly cloudy and dry elsewhere. Morning patchy frost across the southern ranges. Daytime temperatures below average in the east, average inland. East to northeasterly winds during the morning with winds turning west to southwest in the far west during the afternoon and evening. Thursday. Isolated showers in the northeast, chance of a storm

in the far northeast. Chance of a showers in other eastern parts. Dry and sunny west of the Divide. Morning patchy frost about the far southern ranges. Daytime temperatures below average on the coast tending to above average in the far west. Southwest to southeasterly winds in the east with north to northeasterlies across the western inland. Byron Coast: Winds: East to southeasterly 15 to 20 knots tending east to northeasterly below 10 knots during the evening. Seas: 1 to 1.5 metres, decreasing to 1 metre during the morning. 1st Swell: Southeasterly 1.5 to 2.5 metres, tending southerly 1 to 1.5 metres during the afternoon. 2nd Swell: North to northeasterly below 1 metre, tending easterly 1 to 2 metres during the morning. Weather: Cloudy. 70% chance of showers. The chance of a storm in the evening.

Woodburn World Champion punches against the odds

By Samantha Elley

Woodburn has a new world champion in the form of Sunny Maclean, who recently travelled to England with his coach, Scott Smith of Maddog Boxing to compete in the 2025 World Kickboxing Association (WKA) World Championships in Shefeld.

The 17-year-old has punched his way through many a competition and setback to have arrived at this point, joining the team of eight fghters, two coaches and one physio, to travel halfway around the world.

“Sunny drew his frst opponent from Indonesia and got knocked down in the frst 10 seconds of the frst round,” said Scott.

“This guy was a beast.

“Sunny's never been knocked down ever before and I was screaming directions to him as he was fat on his back and trying to get up but his glove got caught on the bottom rope.

“The referee counted right up to eight (in a 10 second countdown) and Sunny made it up and said he was ok but he wasn't back 100%.”

The young fghter managed to muddle his way through the round before Scott was able to give him the instructions that would help Sunny win the fght.

“I saw the opponent had a hole above his left guard so the plan was to get him with Sunny's overhand right,” said Scott.

“The round started and Sunny started working the body and he began breaking down this guy.

“Then about halfway through the round, Sunny knew he had to do something and, boom, he landed that overhand right and KOd the fghter with the knockout shot of the entire tournament.”

Scott swears he lost his voice that day.

“We were supposed to fght England and Poland after that fght but because Sunny's never got knocked down the rules wouldn't let him fght again that day,” he said.

“Because the way the draw went the ofcials were so impressed with Sunny they put him through to the gold medal bout against another Australian boxer named Cam Nash from Qld.

“Sunny fought so well and won this hard fght to become world WKA Titles amateur champion.”

The WKA World Titles is an event that involves boxing, karate, Muay Thai kick boxing, stick fghting and numb chuckers.

With six mats on the foor and two rings, there

were events constantly happening over the three days of competition.

Countries were represented across the globe with England

felding a huge team. Poland, Wales, France, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Germany and, of course, Australia were some of the countries that competed.

Scott has proudly watched Sunny’s boxing skills develop since he started boxing.

“Since Sunny started with all the teams he

has made, we’ve done it together,” said the proud coach.

“I’ve been so fortunate to be the state and Australian coach.

“I feel so blessed that we’ve been on this road together.

“Every team, we’ve made it together, he keeps winning and we keep representing together.”

Sadly, Sunny came home to some sad news when he found out his maternal grandfather, Warren Beddoes, passed away. His paternal grandfather, Rob ‘Rusty’ Maclean, couldn’t have been prouder of his young grandson.

“We are so proud of him,” he said.

“All the hard work he and Scott have put in and his father Shaun who takes him to training three to four times a week.

“What you put in, you should get rewards and (Sunny) deserves everything he gets.

“He’s a great kid and a great mate to everybody.”

North East Boardriders Go Back-to-Back at Dark Hollow Beach

Jef Gibbs

Perfect surf and sunny skies greeted competitors at Dark Hollow Beach, Scamander, over the weekend for the Tasmanian leg of the 2025/26 Australian Boardriders Battle regional series. With light ofshore winds and clean 2–3ft peaks breaking both left and right, the stage was set for an

exciting day of competition.

North East Boardriders showcased impressive form and teamwork from the opening heats through to the fnal, claiming backto-back victories ahead of South Arm Boardriders and Park Beach Boardriders Club in second and third place respectively. There was no shortage of standout performances. Jy

North East Boardriders President and surfer Andy Hoult said the team was thrilled to retain their crown.

“It’s been a long time coming for North East to go back-to-back after last year’s win. We’re absolutely stoked. Huge thanks to Surfing Australia, Surfing Tasmania, and all the sponsors—what an incredible day!”

Performer Award, and Park Beach Boardriders claimed the Jim Beam Team Spirit Award for their energy and camaraderie both in and out of the surf. With their top-two fnishes, North East and South Arm Boardriders will now represent Tasmania at the Australian Boardriders Battle Grand

Final, presented by NRMA Insurance, at Burleigh Heads on 7–8 March 2026.

The event once again highlighted the strength, spirit, and unity of Tasmania’s surfng community—proving that Dark Hollow Beach remains one of the state’s most iconic competitive surf spots.

Runs at a premium in Clarence cricket

By Tim Howard

Runs were at a premium in the third round of the Clarence Valley frst grade cricket competition, with only two of the six teams topping 100.

Lawrence did best, racking up 136 on the back of a crucial 60 from all-rounder Doug Harris, who came in with his team in trouble at 4-32 against Iluka at Iluka Sportsground.

Veteran Nathan Ensbey (22) was the only other batter to pass 20, but a stubborn 14 from No. 9 Jack Cheney helped make the total competitive.

Opening bowler and skipper Glenn Ayres took 3-25, while frst-change seamer Dean Bartlett claimed 3-15 to make batting hard work for the visitors.

Chasing a modest target, Iluka looked in the hunt at 2-50, but Taj Chevalley ripped through the middle order, taking 5-26 from his eight overs. Only one middle-order batter reached double fgures as Chevalley ran amok.

Eight wickets fell for just 20 runs, ending Iluka’s chase. They were bowled out for 90 in the 27th over.

At Ellem Oval, GDSC Easts needed a team efort to reach 9-120 against

Maclean United. Six batters reached double fgures, but none bettered opener Tom Gerrard’s 22, although No. 9 Sam Palmer came close with 21.

Maclean’s Zethan Nicholls starred with the ball, snaring 4-15 from his eight overs.

During Nicholls’ spell, Easts collapsed to 7-57, but after he fnished, the lower order revived the innings and pushed the score past 100.

The run chase never got going.

Veteran Geof Simmons went early, lbw to Shannon Connor, and apart from 26 from captain Dan McColl and a brisk 20 from opener Brady Walker, the rest ofered little resistance.

From 2-41 the visitors lost 8-51, with opening bowlers Connor (3-28) and Gus Lobsey (3-16) doing most of the damage. Left-arm spinner and captain Dave Duroux also took a couple of key wickets — including McColl and Chris Bateman (10) — in his fgures of 2-29.

At Ulmarra Showground, Harwood cruised to an eight-wicket victory over Tucabia Copmanhurst Ulmarra Hotel. Batting frst, Tucabia were lucky to reach 90, with skipper Brad Chard top-scoring with 36.

Chard, who came in at No. 7, was the last wicket to fall as wickets tumbled around him.

Only opener Beau Sevil (19) ofered much resistance as they scraped through 36.1 overs.

Harwood’s evergreen allrounder Matt Young came

out of retirement to snare 3-17 from eight overs of wily of-spin.

Now in the superveteran category, Young bamboozled Tucabia’s lower order to head of any recovery.

Harwood enjoyed a comfortable chase, reaching 1-78 before a late wobble.

With victory in sight, they lost 4-5 when Matt Pigg dismissed Ashley Moss (40) and Kallen Lawrence (30) in quick succession.

Tim Bultitude picked up Josh Lane, and Pigg

WEEKLY SPORTS RESULTS

Casino Sports Round-Up: Golf, Bowls and Croquet

Shine in a Big Week of Local Competition

Casino Social Golf –October 26, 2025

The greens were alive with friendly rivalry on Sunday as the Casino Social Golf Club teed of under perfect spring skies. Gary Skennar proved unstoppable, swinging his way to victory with an impressive 31 stableford points, edging out Rob Francis who followed with a steady 26 points

The nearest-to-pin competition kept players on their toes, with G. Randall showing precision on the 8th, 9th, 11th and 18th holes. D. Roberts claimed both the 13th and 15th, while B. Yates impressed

on the 14th, M. Gooding on the 16th, and D. Slade sealed the deal on the 17th.

Next Sunday’s event, proudly sponsored by Richmond Valley Meats at the RSM Shopping Village, will feature a single stroke challenge on the top 11 holes for the coveted monthly medal . Visitors are warmly invited to join, with hit-of between 6:30am and 7:30am. The competition is heating up – don’t miss your shot at glory!

Casino Bowls –Midweek Action

Wednesday’s bowls at Casino RSM Club was all about skill, laughter, and tight fnishes. The spotlight shone on the day’s top team — Tanya Maxwell, Raelene Skirrey, and Annette James — who clinched victory by the slimmest of margins

against Sandra Guthrie, Jan Cooke, and Mary Mead

On the second rink, Chris Haynes, a multitasking marvel, played lead for both sides in a friendly but fercely contested match. The winning combination of Haynes, Julie Creighton, and Denise Skinner overcame Haynes, Carmel Doyle, and Ivy Watson in a game that had spectators smiling all morning.

New players are always welcome — join the fun every Wednesday from 9:00am at Casino RSM Club. Bring your enthusiasm, and who knows, you might roll your way to victory!

Coraki Veterans Golf – October 23, 2025

The Coraki Veterans

Golf Club turned out in style with 52 golfers hitting the course for Russ Earnshaw’s Prostate Cancer Fundraiser Day . Dressed in “something diferent” (and facing light-hearted fnes for charity), players teed of for a great cause — raising funds and awareness for prostate cancer.

T. Newton took top honours on the day, followed by P. Bruggy in second and T. McBurney in third. G. Brown earned a free game, while the chicken and ball prizes went to a long list of sharp shooters including B. Miller, I. Welch, G. Gibson, N. Ormond, R. Earnshaw, and more.

Nearest to pins were won by G. Gibson on the 3rd and 12th, and L. Newton on the 6th and 15th. A big round of

applause to everyone who contributed, with special thanks to Russ Earnshaw for making the day a success.

Next Thursday promises another great

removed Evan Lewis frst ball, briefy giving the home side hope.

But Alex Moftt (7no) and Ben McMahon (2no) guided Harwood home with fve wickets to spare. Pigg fnished with 3-21 from eight overs as Harwood reached 5-92 in 33 overs.

On Saturday one-day games continue with Maclean hosting Lawrence at Barry Watts Oval. Tucabia are at home again at Ulmarra to Iluka, while GDSC Easts and Harwood clash at Ellem Oval.

contest with an 18hole single stableford and a shotgun start at 8:00am, followed by the club’s famous monthly barbecue. Don’t be late — the draw starts sharp!

AS CLEAR AS MUD

RUNS AT A

REBELS GO DOWN SWINGING

By Gary Nichols

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