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Kyogle Council Pushes for Funding on Community Priority Projects

By Jeff Gibbs

Kyogle Council is intensifying its advocacy efforts with State and Federal governments, seeking funding for a range of infrastructure projects identified by the community as essential to the region’s future growth, safety and resilience.

The council has developed a series of advocacy briefs outlining priority projects it believes are critical for improving transport, recreation and disaster resilience across the local government area.

Among the key funding requests is a proposal to seal 15 kilometres of currently unsealed roads each year, with a focus on school bus routes that are heavily used by local families and transport operators.

Council is also seeking support to progressively replace causeways with bridges or box culverts to improve flood resilience and maintain access during severe weather events.

Other major priorities include completing the long-awaited upgrade of the Clarence Way between Sandilands and Urbenville, progressing stages two and three of the Kyogle Memorial Recreation Centre redevelopment, and developing mountain bike trails and associated visitor infrastructure to boost tourism opportunities. In addition to

infrastructure funding, Council is lobbying the NSW Government to permanently remove Kyogle from the list of councils required to pay the waste levy and is seeking financial support to maintain public access to Bells Bay at Toonumbar Dam.

Kyogle Mayor Danielle Mulholland said the campaign was built on

extensive community feedback and reflected the priorities residents had consistently identified.

“These priorities have been shaped by the community and what they have told us, time and time again, matter most to them — better roads, improved local facilities and increased resilience to natural disasters such as floods and fires,” Cr

Mulholland said. Council’s advocacy documents highlight the impacts that infrastructure funding shortfalls are having on local communities while also showcasing the council’s track record of successfully delivering major projects with government funding support.

Cr Mulholland said the council was determined to ensure the needs of rural communities remained firmly on the agenda of decision-makers in Sydney and Canberra.

“We have listened to our community and we know what they need, we have strong projects ready to go, and we have consistently demonstrated that we can deliver major infrastructure when the funding is secured,” she said.

The advocacy campaign aims to position Kyogle to secure future investment while addressing longstanding community concerns around transport, recreation, tourism and disaster preparedness.

35 Illegal E-Bikes Destroyed as Police Crack Down in Tweed Heads

By Jeff Gibbs

Tweed region have been destroyed, as authorities continue their crackdown on dangerous and unlawful riding behaviour.

The destruction follows almost a year of targeted enforcement under Operation Cyclesafe and Operation E-Voltage, which have seen officers from the Tweed/Byron Police District engage with hundreds of e-bike riders throughout the region.

Over the past 10 months, police have conducted numerous operations focused on identifying riders using modified or illegally operated e-bikes on roads, footpaths and public spaces. As a result, 35 e-bikes were confiscated and later subjected to court-issued forfeiture orders allowing them to be permanently seized and destroyed.

On 21 May 2026, police removed the batteries from the confiscated bikes before transporting them to a waste management

facility where they were dismantled and destroyed.

The action marks one of the largest e-bike forfeiture operations undertaken in northern New South Wales and reflects growing community concerns about the misuse of high-powered electric bikes.

Tweed/Byron Police District Inspector Matthew Woods said police would continue to target riders who fail to comply with road rules and legislative requirements.

“Operations will continue to be undertaken by both uniformed and plainclothes police targeting the illegal use of e-bikes,”

Inspector Woods said.

He said local residents had repeatedly raised concerns about dangerous riding and anti-social behaviour involving a small number of riders.

“The community is frustrated by the anti-social behaviour of a minority, and they continue to report incidents to police,” he said.

“All information and intelligence received from the community is acted upon and greatly appreciated.

This information has contributed to the seizure and destruction of these e-bikes.”

Inspector Woods stressed that police would continue to investigate reports and take enforcement action where necessary.

“The message is simple and clear: ride safely and in accordance with legislative

guidelines, or risk losing your bike,” he said.

The growing popularity of e-bikes has led to increased scrutiny by police and transport authorities, particularly where bikes have been modified to exceed legal speed limits or operate without the required safety features.

Police say riders should ensure their e-bikes comply with Australian regulations and that they understand where and how the vehicles can legally be used.

While 35 bikes have already been destroyed, enforcement action is far from over. Police confirmed a further 23 forfeiture applications remain before the courts, with additional bikes potentially facing the same fate if the applications are successful.

Authorities are urging residents to continue reporting dangerous riding behaviour as efforts to improve safety across the Tweed and Byron regions continue.

$20m boost secures full maternity unit at Grafton Base Hospital

By Tim Howard

Families across the Clarence Valley will have access to a fully operational maternity unit as part of the Grafton Base Hospital redevelopment after the NSW Government committed an additional $20 million in the 2026-27 State Budget.

The funding increase lifts the total value of the redevelopment project to $283.8 million and addresses concerns raised by community members and health advocates that the maternity unit would initially be delivered only as a “cold shell” without the facilities needed to provide services.

Nationals Member for Clarence Richie Williamson said the additional funding would ensure the new maternity unit was fully fitted out with dedicated birthing rooms and upgraded inpatient accommodation.

“This additional funding ensures families across the Clarence Valley will benefit from a purpose-built maternity unit featuring dedicated birthing rooms and improved inpatient accommodation,” Mr Williamson said.

He said he had repeatedly raised the issue with NSW Health Minister Ryan Park after concerns emerged about the scope of the original project.

“Local mothers, babies and healthcare workers deserve access to modern, purpose-built maternity facilities from day one,” he said.

“This funding provides certainty for families across the Clarence Valley and means future generations will be able to access world-class maternity care closer to home.”

The announcement marks another major milestone in what remains the largest health infrastructure investment ever undertaken

in the Clarence electorate.

The redevelopment will also deliver an expanded emergency department and short stay unit, enhanced medical imaging services including MRI capability, additional inpatient beds, a new day surgery unit and two new operating theatres.

The maternity unit fit-out is expected to be completed by 2029, with maternity services continuing to operate from the existing unit during construction.

The funding announcement follows confirmation that Richard Crookes Constructions has been appointed as the main works contractor for the project.

Mr Williamson said the contractor appointment would allow major construction activity to begin ramping up on site.

“The appointment of the main works contractor is another significant milestone and means our community will soon see

major construction activity ramp up on site,” he said.

The additional investment has also been welcomed by the Grafton Hospital Community Committee, which has campaigned for improved health facilities in the region.

Committee spokesperson Ron Bell said the group was pleased the maternity unit would now be

delivered as part of the first stage of the redevelopment.

“We thank Minister Park for his decision to include this important facility in Stage 1 of the project,” Mr Bell said.

“The committee also welcomes the appointment of the main works contractor and looks forward to construction commencing in the near future.”

The redevelopment of Grafton Base Hospital has been one of the Clarence Valley’s most significant public infrastructure projects, with the expanded facilities expected to improve access to specialist and acute healthcare services for residents across the region.

Council divided over cost of workforce reform

By Tim Howard

Clarence Valley councillors were sharply divided over a proposal to modernise the organisation’s salary structure, with concerns about the council’s financial position nearly derailing the adoption of a key planning document at last week’s meeting.

The debate emerged during consideration of Council’s 2026-27 Resourcing Strategy, a major component of the Integrated Planning and Reporting framework that sets out the organisation’s long-term financial, workforce and asset management plans.

While the strategy itself covers a broad range of issues, discussion centred on a proposed review of Council’s salary structure, which councillors were told could cost more than $500,000 in its first year and about $1.2 million annually thereafter.

Cr Peter Johnstone unsuccessfully moved an amendment seeking to remove the salary structure review from the Workforce Management Strategy.

He said he accepted there were shortcomings in the current system, but argued the council could not justify the expense while facing other financial challenges.

“If introduced in January next year, the change would cost over $500,000 the next financial year and then up to $1.2 million every financial year after that,” he said.

“At the same time, we’re not budgeting for about $11 million of required maintenance and that is the context that we must

weigh.”

Cr Johnstone argued the current salary structure remained award compliant and said any organisational reforms would be better considered alongside the appointment of the next general manager, whose contract expires next year.

“The bottom line is this: I cannot go out into the community, into the streets, onto social media, into the pub, and justify spending millions of dollars on this project at a time when so many ratepayers are struggling,” he said.

Supporting the amendment, Cr Greg Clancy said councillors needed to be mindful of the council’s financial

circumstances.

“We have to look at our finances as well,” he said.

“I just don’t think that in our present financial climate that we can actually afford this at this stage.”

But opponents argued delaying the reform would only prolong an issue council staff had identified as needing attention.

Cr Andrew Baker said councillors had been presented with both a problem and a proposed solution and should not simply defer the issue to a future council.

“We’ve been presented with a problem and we’re being presented with a solution,” he said.

Eligible pharmacists can now prescribe the contraceptive pill

“I don’t believe that this has been brought to us as a vanity project.”

Cr Baker said councillors should not use the impending expiry of the general manager’s contract as a reason to postpone action.

“We shouldn’t push it off to anyone else,” he said.

Cr Karen Toms was equally forceful, describing council staff as the organisation’s most important resource.

“This has been an issue since before amalgamation,” she said.

“We need to deal with it right now.”

Cr Toms stressed the proposal was not about granting staff pay rises, but about creating a modern

and transparent salary framework that would improve recruitment, career progression and organisational effectiveness.

“This doesn’t affect their pay,” she said.

“This is about the framework that strengthens people’s performance and reduces our risk.”

The amendment divided councillors evenly, with Crs Johnstone, Clancy, Lynne Cairns and Cristie Yager voting in favour, while Crs Toms, Andrew Baker, Debrah Novak and Mayor Ray Smith opposed it.

With the vote tied 4-4, Mayor Smith exercised his casting vote to defeat the amendment.

While acknowledging concerns about community perceptions, Cr Smith said he had been persuaded by the arguments in favour of reform.

“I believe that the modernisation of a salary structure is not just about increasing wages, it is about creating a fair and equitable workforce,” he said.

The broader Resourcing Strategy was eventually adopted 5-3, with Crs Cairns, Clancy and Yager voting against.

The strategy includes the council’s Long Term Financial Plan, Workforce Management Strategy and Asset Management Strategy.

The Long Term Financial Plan warns escalating operating costs continue to threaten the long-term sustainability of the council’s General Fund and outlines two future scenarios, including an “improvement plan” aimed at strengthening the council’s financial position. Public submissions on the strategy also highlighted concerns about council finances, with one resident urging councillors to carefully scrutinise future spending decisions and prioritise critical infrastructure over nonessential facilities.

The debate highlighted an issue likely to feature prominently in future council discussions: how to balance investment in staff and organisational reform against growing pressure to maintain roads, infrastructure and community services amid ongoing financial constraints.

Tweed Heads CBD Lights Up as Revitalisation Project Gains Momentum

By Jeff Gibbs

The transformation of the Tweed Heads CBD has taken a significant step forward, with decorative fairy lights now illuminating Bay Street and Wharf Street as part of a major revitalisation program designed to reinvigorate the heart of the border city.

The new lighting installation represents the first visible milestone in a broader $1.9 million enhancement project aimed at creating a safer, more attractive and more vibrant town centre for residents, visitors and businesses.

The multi-year project is being jointly funded through a $1.5 million contribution from the NSW Government’s Regional Development Trust and $400,000 from Tweed Shire Council. The program is scheduled to continue through to 2028 and will deliver a range of streetscape, placemaking and economic activation initiatives across the CBD.

Tweed Shire Deputy Mayor Reece Byrnes said the new lighting was an important first

step in revitalising the precinct and responding to community expectations for a more welcoming urban environment.

“The lighting responds directly to requests from the community for a more attractive and inviting streetscape,” Cr Byrnes said.

“By enhancing public spaces, we’re improving safety, encouraging more people to explore the CBD and helping local businesses to thrive.”

The illuminated streetscape has already begun changing the

atmosphere of the popular dining and retail precinct, creating a warmer and more inviting environment during evening hours while highlighting the area's role as a key gateway into New South Wales.

NSW Minister for Agriculture, Regional NSW and Western NSW, the Hon. Tara Moriarty MLC, said the project demonstrated the value of investing in regional communities and town centres.

“It’s fantastic to see the Tweed Heads CBD coming to life, creating a warmer,

more inviting atmosphere for locals, visitors and businesses alike,” Ms Moriarty said.

“This is the kind of investment the NSW Government is proud to support through the Regional Development Trust because it helps communities thrive by improving safety, supporting local business activity and enhancing the look and feel of the CBD.”

Member for Tweed Geoff Provest said the project would strengthen one of the region’s most prominent

commercial and tourism precincts.

“Bay and Wharf streets are an increasingly popular destination within the Tweed, filled with popular cafes and businesses,” Mr Provest said.

“This neighbourhood glow-up enriches the precinct for visitors, residents and local businesses alike.”

While the lighting installation is the most visible component delivered so far, Council says a substantial body of work remains as the revitalisation program progresses.

Future stages will include additional lighting upgrades, enhanced streetscape treatments, renewed street furniture, improved landscaping and vegetation, and a range of wayfinding and signage improvements designed to make the CBD easier to navigate and more attractive for visitors.

The project will also feature a series of placemaking initiatives, including public art, murals, banners and cultural storytelling elements that celebrate the unique character and heritage of the

Tweed region.

A key component of the revitalisation strategy will focus on activating the former Visitor Information Centre site at the prominent corner of Bay and Wharf streets. Council plans to seek expressions of interest from commercial operators to transform the currently vacant building into a vibrant new business destination.

To encourage investment, fit-out incentives will be offered to prospective tenants, with the goal of attracting an operator capable of generating daytime, evening and nighttime activity in the precinct.

Council believes the combined improvements will strengthen Tweed Heads’ position as a major regional centre while supporting economic growth, increasing visitation and creating a more connected and engaging public realm.

The Tweed Heads CBD Revitalisation Program will continue to roll out in stages over the coming years as Council works toward delivering a renewed and vibrant town centre by 2028.

Taking care of drinking water catchments, managing targeted weed programs, and maintaining rural food infrastructure now and into the future.

To learn more visit rous.nsw.gov.au

WE’RE WORKING BEHIND THE SCENES

Wooli St Hall lease in limbo

By Tim Howard

A bitterly contested debate over the future of Yamba’s former community hall has left the fate of one of the town’s most fiercely protected public assets unresolved.

Clarence Valley Council voted 6-2 on June 18 to delay a decision on a longer-term lease for The Gathering Church at the former hall building at 45 Wooli Street, Yamba, opting instead to investigate alternative rental opportunities after a third party expressed interest in the site.

The decision came despite the neighbouring former library building already being leased to the Country Universities Centre on a three-year term with a three-year option.

Supporters of The Gathering Church argued the organisation had every reason to expect a similar arrangement after participating in the original expression of interest process and being advised council had approved its proposal.

The hall has remained a sensitive issue in Yamba since 2022, when a community campaign successfully fought council plans that could have led to the site being sold.

The Gathering Church has outlined plans to use the hall for weekly services, youth programs, a community soup kitchen, Alcoholics Anonymous

an organisation that had participated in the original process and had been led to believe it would receive a longer-term arrangement.

He also questioned why the Country Universities Centre had received a three-year lease with a three-year option while The Gathering Church had been offered only a 12-month agreement.

“I think we’ve made a commitment. I think we should stick to that commitment,” he said.

Cr Clancy said the church intended to make the facility available to other community groups and activities rather than using it solely for church purposes.

However, opponents argued council had an obligation to act in the interests of the broader community and ensure it fully investigated all available options before committing the site for up to six years.

making decisions based on emotion and instead allow staff to bring back a report so councillors could make an informed decision.

Cr Peter Johnstone said he remained strongly opposed to any future sale of the Wooli Street site, describing it as a community asset council would struggle to replace if lost.

While acknowledging concerns about changing the process after expressions of interest had closed, he ultimately supported receiving a further report before making a final decision.

One of the most significant moments of the debate came when Mayor Ray Smith acknowledged he had initially supported granting the church a longer-term lease.

“Initially, I would have supported this motion,” Cr Smith told the meeting.

unsuccessfully attempted to move into committee of the whole.

A separate dispute erupted when Cr Cairns referred to correspondence between council and The Gathering Church, prompting arguments about whether the material could be discussed in open council.

The disagreement escalated into a formal motion of dissent against a ruling by the Mayor and forced a five-minute adjournment before debate resumed.

Despite the acrimony, the final vote was decisive.

Crs Cairns and Clancy were the only councillors to oppose the officer recommendation after Cr Cristie Yager, who had supported the original motion, joined Crs Baker, Novak, Toms, Johnstone and Smith in supporting the amended motion.

meetings and other community activities.

But councillors became deeply divided after council staff recommended the church be offered only a one-year lease while an alternative proposal was investigated.

Cr Lynne Cairns moved a motion seeking to grant the church a three-year lease with a three-year option, arguing the church had been unfairly treated after participating in a formal expression of interest

process that closed in August 2025.

“We’ve been messing this little church group around,” Cr Cairns said.

She questioned why a third-party proposal that emerged after the original expression of interest process had closed was now influencing council’s decision-making and raised concerns about the integrity of the process.

Cr Greg Clancy supported the motion, saying council risked breaking faith with

Cr Andrew Baker said councillors needed to view the property as a community asset that should be managed in a business-like manner.

“If we can convince ourselves that the commercial hiring out of these assets are in the spirit of our management of community halls, then for me we should be ensuring that we get the best commercial return,” he said.

Later in the debate he said council needed to avoid

However, he said the emergence of another potential tenant had persuaded him council should seek more information before committing the site.

“If there’s a third party where we can optimise our assets, I believe we still need to get a further report to see if we are actually optimising those assets that we hold,” he said.

The debate frequently descended into procedural disputes, points of order and arguments over confidentiality.

At one point councillors

The result means staff will investigate alternative rental opportunities and return a report to council, potentially as early as next month.

The decision leaves unanswered questions about the late emergence of a third-party proposal and why two successful applicants from the same site ultimately received very different lease arrangements.

For now, the future use of one of Yamba’s most contentious community buildings remains unresolved.

Learning all about the Legislative Council

By Samantha Elley

Around 80 Year 11 and 12 students from various different Northern Rivers high schools gathered at Southern Cross University last week to interact with some local members from the Parliament of NSW.

These members included Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffin, Member for Ballina, Tamara Smith and President of the Legislative Council of NSW, Ben Franklin.

They each represented Labor, the Greens and the Nationals respectively, while also underlining the fact, despite their different parties, they were friends.

The students were given the opportunity to ask each of the members their questions which were thoughtfully put and enthusiastically received.

Questions covered topics such as what university degrees would be needed to work for the government or even to get into politics, youth crime, housing, mental health issues and

even whether they as politicians were happy with what they had achieved so far and would they like to do more.

Caleb Scherrer is a 16-year-old student at Trinity Catholic College and is in Year 11.

He saw the day as a good opportunity to learn more about the NSW Legislative Council and all about the NSW side of politics and also a great opportunity to meet with the local members.

“I really liked the last session... to hear other people’s questions and hear the answers,” he said.

“I was going to ask about the wealth inequality in Australia and just what we are doing to rectify that.

“I thought most of the answers were pretty good.

“I’ve been pretty involved in politics; I think I’ve already got an understanding.”

Caleb was involved in the Youth Steering Committee, a federal organisation run by Office for Youth.

“There were 15 young people, 13-25 year olds from all over Australia, two from each state,” he said.

“We got consulted on issues around young people.

“We were consulted about the Social Media bill.”

Future plans for Caleb include travel and an Economics degree.

“Not 100% sure yet,” he said.

Tweed Keeps Rate Rise Below Inflation as Council Adopts 2026–27 Budget

By Jeff Gibbs

Tweed Shire residents will face one of the lowest rate increases in the region after Tweed Shire Council adopted its 2026–27 budget, keeping the overall rise in household charges below the current rate of inflation.

Councillors voted to approve a 3.1 per cent increase in general rates, which fund the day-to-day services and infrastructure relied upon by the community. When water, sewerage and waste charges are included, the average household bill is expected to increase by approximately 3.6 per cent, remaining below the annual inflation rate of 4.2 per cent.

Tweed Shire Mayor Chris Cherry said Council had worked to balance the need to maintain essential services while recognising the ongoing financial pressures facing households.

“We know any increase affects our community, which is why we have kept

this year’s rate increase as low as possible while continuing to provide the services people rely on every day,” Cr Cherry said.

The Mayor noted that Tweed’s increase compares favourably with many neighbouring councils and local government areas across New South Wales, where some councils have been granted approval for significantly larger increases above the standard rate peg.

“Compared to many councils across NSW, particularly those with much higher approved increases, Tweed’s rate increase remains modest and responsible,” she said.

The difference is even more pronounced when compared with councils across the Queensland border. Unlike New South Wales, Queensland councils are not subject to the same rate-capping arrangements, with recent council budgets reporting increases ranging from five to 10 per cent.

Cr Cherry said Tweed residents were benefiting from a more restrained approach.

“When you compare Tweed to the City of Gold Coast and other South East Queensland councils, our increase is roughly half, and in some cases significantly less, than what residents are experiencing just across the border,” she said.

Revenue generated through rates will continue to support a wide range of community services and infrastructure, including the maintenance of roads, parks and public spaces, upgrades required to accommodate population growth, and the operation of facilities used by residents and visitors.

Council says the adopted budget reflects its commitment to responsible financial management while continuing to deliver essential services and invest in the region’s future.

Residents experiencing difficulty paying their rates are encouraged to contact Council to discuss available payment assistance and support options.

DEMENTIA INCLUSIVE BALLINA

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Professor Yun-Hee Jeon Uni Sydney

A/Professor Samantha Loi Uni Melbourne

Christine Sender - Ivanov CNC iREADI program

Anne Livingstone Director SMART HOMES

Kelly Roberts NP Crowley Care

Dr Peter Silberberg GP

Dr Rachel Jones Geriatrician

Dr Sabrina Pit & YOD UK

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Cathedral to be packed to farewell Lloyd and Janeen

By Tim Howard

Christ Church Cathedral in Grafton is expected to be filled to capacity on Wednesday as the Clarence Valley community gathers to farewell two of its most respected and loved residents, Lloyd and Janeen Hampson.

The husband and wife, who were well known through decades of service to the community and the NSW Police Force, died just days apart, prompting their family to organise a joint funeral service celebrating their lives and enduring partnership.

The service will begin at 12.30pm on Wednesday, with funeral directors anticipating between 400 and 500 people will attend.

For many in the Clarence Valley, Lloyd and Janeen Hampson were familiar faces whose careers were dedicated to helping others.

Mr Hampson spent much of his working life with the NSW Police Force

characteristic humour.

Mrs Hampson began as a stenographer before training as an inspector’s clerk and later taking on the role of general administration support officer, a position she held for decades.

Throughout her career she became a trusted figure for generations of police officers and members of the public. She witnessed some of the Clarence Valley’s most significant and tragic events, including the Cowper bus disaster, which she described as deeply traumatic for police involved in the response.

on her life, she said her greatest highlight came away from the office.

In 1977 she met Lloyd Hampson, then a senior constable with the NSW Police Force.

“That has always been the highlight of my life,” she said.

The couple’s commitment to each other became a defining part of their story, making the news of their deaths only a week apart particularly poignant for family and friends.

and retired as the officer in charge of Highway Patrol in the region. Mrs Hampson devoted more than four decades to Grafton Police Station, becoming one of the most recognisable and respected civilian staff members in the district.

Known affectionately as “Mrs H”, Janeen Hampson began work at Grafton Police Station in the late

Resilient Homes Program

In a 2017 interview marking her 40 years of service, she recalled being so nervous on her first day that she stood outside the station for a long time before finding the courage to walk through the door. At the time she was the only woman working at the station.

“I was fairly spoilt and I still am,” she said with

Do you have a Resilient Measures grant or are you relocating a buyback home?

Come along to this information session and connect with the NSW Reconstruction Authority team, local construction industry professionals and council, and attend presentations to help progress your project.

Broadwater Community Hall

Tuesday, 30 June 12pm to 6pm – drop in anytime

For more information call 1800 844 085

Scan to register

NSW Reconstruction Authority

“It is hard to explain to people who have never worked with police what type of people they are, but they are the most dedicated and hard-working people you would ever want to meet and I feel privileged to work with them,” she said in 2017.

“I look on them as my family.”

But when reflecting

Following news of Janeen’s passing, social media was flooded with tributes from people who remembered her kindness, warmth and willingness to help others.

“Absolutely beautiful lady. Always had a smile and hello when I met with her. RIP beautiful lady,” one person wrote.

“Such sad news. Janeen was such a wonderful lady, always with a smile,” another said.

“So sad for the family but comforting to know that they will be together forever. Will miss them so much. Love and condolences to all the family,” one tribute read.

Wednesday’s service is expected to bring together former police colleagues, friends, family members and community members whose lives were touched by the couple over many decades.

For many attending, it will be an opportunity not only to mourn their passing, but to celebrate two lives defined by service, kindness and a partnership that endured for nearly half a century.

Thanks to former Daily Examiner journalist Caitlan Charles for her profile piece on Janeen in 2017.

Others described her as gracious, genuine and caring, while many expressed comfort in the thought that Lloyd and Janeen would remain together.

“Leemo has views on just about anything”

‘MUM JANE, AM “I’’ a LEGEND?’

‘Leemo Cat’ here. I’m at present quizzing Mum on my status in life so I asked her if ‘I, LEEMO CAT’ could be regarded as a ‘LEGEND OF MY TIME’. Observing her nonplussed wrinkly visage I quickly made her tea. After a pause she spoke. ‘Leems, let’s chat about this shall we? What does the word mean to you my boy, keeping in mind it that word ‘CAN be bandied about rather carelessly at times. The word ‘Legend’ can be an individual who has made a signifcant impact on the world through their actions, beliefs & important stuff they have accomplished. I ‘personally’ do not believe that someone (named ‘Loopy Lola’) who drank 43 schooners of beer in 28 minutes at the ‘Whereisit’ Pub should be classed as a ‘Legend’ but she was, with a pic of her on the wall (& a fake gold plaque) leaning precariously to one side. From another view Leems, historically, ‘Legends’ are myths in some sense: they tell tales of heroic fgures or extraordinary deeds that were passed down over generations like Robin Hood & his ‘Merry’ Men who had ‘probly been at the ‘Whereisit’ Pub as well.’ (CRIKEY..I ask a simple question & get a long winded boring answer… arrrgh!) ‘MUM, get back to “MY’ question WILL YOU. By the way, do YOU personally know any ‘Legends’ anyhow & don’t start

rambling again please.’ ‘Well Leems, I DO know a band of Legends in fact. Their leaders are Trevor & Deb Harris who founded ‘Pillars of Potential’ and their aims are related to providing an effective & friendly approach to NDIS support. Their Garden Help team have been making a HUGE difference to our garden for a few months now (as you MAY have noticed Leemos?) and I’ve been lucky enough so far to have met Xavier, Taj, Cyril, Erin, James, Ben, Nick, Morrison, Tom & Glenn + the lovely Heidi on their Assistance Phone line. Their branch in Lismore is called ‘Legends of Lawns & Gardens’ Ph: 0422 701 337: Having had very good, bad, overpriced & indifferent garden help over my 44 years in Lismore, the Legends come out way ahead for their work ethic, teamwork, happy friendly approach and affordability. THEY are, in my view, true ‘Legends’ in every sense Leems. NOW, back to your question… are YOU a Legend? I shall need to ponder this for a bit. Pray tell me ‘Leems’ why do you believe you COULD be regarded as a Legend?’ Eeek…think think think!

‘Well Mum, I founded the’Buddies Inc.Club in our street and we now have 9 paying Members including 2 puppies & we formed a choir. We spend time with you, help you do stuff & we made soup for you when you unwell remember?

I’m also good natured, handsome and can poke my paws in your eyes at 3am in the morning to remind you it’s time for a treat ‘cos I couldn’t sleep & know you’d feel bad about neglecting me, your beloved son. I can also kinda read and turn on our TV & ‘tidy’ our shelves by pushing stuff on the foor. got the ‘stare glare of astonishment’ from hell so fgure it s time to maybe go catch up with the Buddies. Nitey with pondering purrs, Leemo.

Letters to the Editor

Have your say in The Northern Rivers Times!

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

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

Deadline: Fridays at noon

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

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

WORLD-CLASS CARE CLOSE TO HOME

The upgrade of the North Coast Cancer Institute is tremendous news for families across the Northern Rivers. Facing cancer is diffcult enough without the added burden of travelling long distances for treatment. The investment in new radiation therapy technology ensures local patients can access world-class care while remaining close to family and support networks. This is exactly the type of health infrastructure regional communities deserve.

M. Hughes – Lismore

INVESTMENT THAT SAVES LIVES

The $8.2 million upgrade at Lismore Base Hospital demonstrates the importance of continued investment in regional healthcare. Increasing treatment capacity by 50 per cent means more patients can receive timely care, while advances in technology improve treatment precision and outcomes. Congratulations to the dedicated staff who maintained services throughout the upgrade period.

J. Drake – Ballina

PUTTING PATIENTS FIRST

I was pleased to read that patient comfort was considered as part of the cancer centre upgrade. Features such as improved treatment rooms, calming artwork and reduced treatment times may seem small, but they can ma e a signifcant difference to people facing one of the most challenging periods of their lives. Healthcare should always

focus on both treatment and patient wellbeing.

S. Mitchell – Casino

A REGIONAL HEALTH SUCCESS

Too often regional areas are forced to fght for services available in major cities. This project proves that highquality cancer treatment can be delivered locally using the latest technology and expertise.

The Northern Rivers community should be proud of this achievement and the health professionals who make it possible.

D. Harrison – Grafton

MORE THAN JUST CLUBS

This article highlights something many people already know: local clubs are about much more than meals, entertainment and sport. Across New South Wales, clubs provide practical support during emergencies, assist vulnerable people and strengthen community connections.

The award winners deserve recognition for making a genuine difference in people's lives.

P. Hepburn – Evans Head

LOCAL CLUBS LEADING THE WAY

It was wonderful to see Northern Rivers clubs recognised at the 2026 Clubs & Community Awards. The achievements of Woodburn Evans Head RSL Club, Urbenville Bowling Club, Twin Towns and Club Lennox demonstrate the positive impact community organisations continue to have across our region. Their success refects the dedication of countless volunteers and staff.

R. Moss – Lennox Head

COMMUNITY SPIRIT IN ACTION

The awards remind us that some of the strongest community support networks are often built through local clubs. Whether helping during natural disasters, supporting mental wellbeing or encouraging participation in sport, clubs play a vital role that often goes unnoticed. Recognition of this work is both deserved and important.

L. Alberts – Tweed Heads

CELEBRATING LOCAL ACHIEVEMENT

In an era when much attention is focused on problems and challenges, it is refreshing to celebrate organisations that are actively improving their communities. The Clubs & Community Awards showcase the best of regional Australia and the people who give their time to help others. Congratulations to all recipients and fnalists.

K. Anderson – Woodburn

TRANSPARENCY MATTERS

The debate over council meeting procedures highlights the importance of transparency in local government. While councillors need opportunities

to understand complex issues, the public also has a right to see how decisions are formed and debated. Finding the right balance between effective briefngs and public accountability is essential if councils are to maintain community trust.

P. Singh – Yamba

COMMON SENSE SHOULD PREVAIL

Allowing councillors to attend meetings via audio-visual links is simply common sense, particularly in large regional council areas where travel distances can be signifcant. Modern technology should be used to improve participation, not restrict it.

The focus should remain on ensuring councillors can represent their communities effectively while maintaining transparent decision-making processes.

R. Velace – Grafton

GETTING THE BALANCE RIGHT

The proposed Clarence Valley code appears to recognise that councillors need access to information before making important decisions, while also ensuring discussions do not become secret decisionmaking sessions. Residents deserve open government, but they also deserve informed government. Both goals can and should be achieved.

L. Cooper – Maclean

PRESSURE ON OUR HOSPITALS

The increase in emergency department presentations at rafton ase ospital refects the growing demands being placed on regional health services. It is reassuring to see that despite this pressure, the hospital continues to perform strongly and complete urgent surgeries on time.

The staff deserve enormous credit for maintaining high standards in increasingly challenging circumstances.

S. Mitchell – South Grafton

RECOGNITION FOR HEALTH WORKERS

Behind every hospital statistic are doctors, nurses, allied health professionals and support staff working tirelessly to care for patients.

The latest fgures demonstrate that Grafton Base Hospital is continuing to deliver strong results despite rising demand.

Our healthcare workers rarely receive the recognition they deserve, and this report is a reminder of their valuable contribution.

D. Harris – Junction Hill

A CHALLENGE FOR THE FUTURE

While it is encouraging to see improvements in surgical performance, the continued rise in emergency presentations should concern everyone. Population growth and increasing healthcare needs mean ongoing investment in regional hospitals will be essential. Planning for the future now will help ensure local communities continue

receiving quality healthcare.

M. Sidney – Ulmarra

ANOTHER HIT TO HOUSEHOLDS

Rising rates, water charges and waste fees will place additional pressure on many households already struggling with the cost of living. While councils face their own fnancial challenges, every increase adds to the burden carried by families and pensioners.

Council should continue loo ing for effciencies wherever possible before asking residents to pay more.

J. Campbell – Yamba

SERVICES MUST MATCH COSTS

If rates and charges are increasing, residents will rightly expect to see continued investment in roads, parks, waste services and essential infrastructure. Ratepayers are generally willing to contribute when they can see value being delivered.

Transparency about how the additional revenue is spent will be important in maintaining public confdence.

K. Ellis – Lawrence

THE COST OF LOCAL

GOVERNMENT

No one enjoys paying higher rates and charges, but maintaining local infrastructure comes at a cost. Roads, water systems, waste facilities and community services all require ongoing investment if they are to meet community expectations. The challenge for council is ensuring every dollar collected is spent wisely and effciently.

P. Rodnick – Iluka

A GREAT REGIONAL ATTRACTION

The acifc irshow has quickly become one of the most exciting events on the Gold Coast calendar. Its combination of world-class aviation displays, family entertainment and a stunning beachside setting makes it an attractive day out for Northern Rivers residents.

Events like this bring people together and showcase the best of the region.

R. Jeremy – Tweed Heads

INSPIRING YOUNG PEOPLE

The Students with Altitude initiative is one of the most impressive aspects of the acifc irshow. iving students exposure to careers in aviation, aerospace, STEM and emergency services could inspire the next generation to pursue exciting opportunities they may never have previously considered. Educational programs like this provide benefts that extend far beyond the event itself.

L. Gilbert – Murwillumbah

MORE THAN JUST AN AIRSHOW hat ma es the acifc Airshow special is that it offers far more than aircraft displays. The combination of entertainment, education and community engagement creates an event that appeals

to people of all ages.

The Gold Coast is fortunate to host such a unique attraction, and many Northern Rivers families will no doubt make the trip north this August.

B. Taylor – Tenterfeld

WHAT ARE THEY HIDING?

The strongest argument against private council briefngs is simple: if discussions are important enough to infuence decisions, they are important enough for the public to hear. Too often residents are presented with a recommendation and a vote, while the real debate has already occurred behind closed doors.

Councillors were elected to represent the community in public, not to conduct key discussions out of sight. Transparency should not be treated as an inconvenience.

T. Morgan – Yamba

ANOTHER LAYER OF CONFUSION

It is diffcult to have confdence in local government when councils are repeatedly forced to rewrite meeting procedures because of political battles in Sydney.

One year councillors are told to follow a new code, the next year it is overturned and everyone starts again. Ratepayers expect stability, consistency and clarity. Instead, councils are wasting time and resources adapting to rules that seem to change with every political argument. The focus should be on delivering services, not navigating endless procedural confusion.

R. Bennett – Grafton

SPOILT AND PROUD OF IT

This week's Leemo column provided a hilarious reminder that some pets enjoy a standard of living most humans can only dream about.

The detailed menu of gourmet cat food, delivered at great effort by poor Nellie, was enough to make many readers question their own household budget.

The exchange between Leemo and Mum Jane was full of warmth, humour and the kind of affectionate banter that

keeps readers coming back each week. Long live the world's most pampered cat.

R. Halcock – Ballina

FAMILY COMES WITH CONSEQUENCES

Leemo's plan to invite his brothers and sisters to stay was always destined to end badly. Mum Jane's refusal, based on lingering memories and unpaid fnes from the last family gathering, will strike a chord with anyone who has ever hosted enthusiastic relatives.

What makes Leemo so entertaining is that beneath the absurdity of talking cats and endless treats are situations every family can recognise.

Another delightful column that delivered plenty of laughs.

P. Henderson – Lismore

TIME WELL SPENT

Nigel Dawe's refection on time was one of those rare columns that encourages readers to slow down and think. In a world obsessed with deadlines, schedules and instant gratifcation, it was refreshing to consider the bigger picture of where we ft within time itself.

His observation that humanity occupies only the briefest moment in the history of the world puts many of our daily worries into perspective.

Thought-provoking writing such as this is a welcome reminder that newspapers should challenge our minds as well as inform us.

M. Edwards – Lismore

CELEBRATING CULTURE AND COMMUNITY

The success of the Mama Afrika Festival demonstrates the strength of Lismore's multicultural community and the appetite people have for events that bring different cultures together. Drawing more than 700 people, the festival provided an opportunity to experience African music, dance, food and traditions while building connections across the community.

In a time when division often dominates headlines, events like this remind us

that cultural diversity is something to be celebrated. Congratulations to the organisers, volunteers and performers who helped create such a vibrant and welcoming occasion.

I would also like to acknowledge The Northern Rivers Times for highlighting this wonderful event. Many readers, myself included, may not have been aware of the festival without the newspaper's coverage. Local journalism plays an important role in promoting community events and helping bring people together.

C. Ricard – Lismore

A CONVERSATION CAN SAVE A LIFE

The message behind Men's Health Week is an important one. Too many men still believe they need to carry every burden alone, often remaining silent until problems become overwhelming. Encouraging fathers, grandfathers and male role models to speak openly about stress and mental health is a simple but powerful step forward.

Talking about challenges should never be seen as weakness. If anything, it takes courage to admit when life is diffcult. The more we normalise these conversations, the healthier our families and communities will become.

D. Leonard – Casino

SUPPORT WHEN IT MATTERS MOST

The decision to fast-track aged care support for Australians living with motor neurone disease is both compassionate and practical. MND is a devastating condition that can progress rapidly, leaving patients and families struggling to access the care they urgently need. Providing support sooner will help people remain in their homes, maintain dignity and reduce unnecessary stress during an already diffcult time. This is a reform that deserves widespread support.

P. Mitchell – Ballina

DADS DON'T NEED ALL THE ANSWERS

One of the most refreshing

points in the Men's Health Week article was the reminder that fathers do not need to be perfect. Too many men place enormous pressure on themselves to always be strong, always cope and always have the answers. Children learn just as much from seeing adults handle challenges honestly and respectfully as they do from seeing success. Being human is often the best example a parent can provide.

R. Jenkins – Grafton

A WIN FOR MND FAMILIES

Families affected by motor neurone disease have long argued that support systems need to refect the speed at which the condition can progress. The new rules recognising MND as a priority condition for home care access are a welcome acknowledgement of that reality.

No family should be left waiting for essential services while a loved one's condition deteriorates. This reform will make a real difference to many Australians facing an incredibly diffcult journey.

S. Rogers – Lismore

PASTA IN A HURRY

The 20-minute creamy Italian sausage pasta is exactly the sort of recipe busy families need. Simple ingredients, minimal preparation and a meal that looks like it took far more effort than it actually did.

The cooking page continues to prove that delicious meals do not have to be complicated or expensive. This one is defnitely going on my weeknight menu.

M. Johnson – Casino

ITALIAN COMFORT FOOD

There is something irresistible about a good pasta recipe, and this week's creamy Italian sausage pasta ticks all the boxes. Rich, hearty and quick to prepare, it sounds perfect for winter evenings when time is short and appetites are big. Recipes like this remind us why Italian food remains a favourite around the world.

P. Smith – Ballina

by Nigel Dawe

FOR months now, I’ve been wanting to dip my reflective big toe, not to mention my reactive bent into the everdeepening mire of an expanse that is AI (or artificial intelligence, for short). And without knowing too much, but understanding it enough – I have more suspicions and concerns, than allayed fears, as to where this is all headed.

As someone who hasn’t used AI to even draft up a single memo or to do any thinking whatsoever on my behalf, it concerns me when we begin to feel a need to ‘outsource’ our thinking: the one thing that has defined, if not refined us over the course of our development. Especially when there are more than credible predictions that suggest by the end of this decade significant job losses (in most, if not all sectors) will be incurred through computer technology making such functions – as performed by humans, no longer required.

That human beings have created something, or essentially a tool to render itself redundant in just about every way, is utterly incomprehensible. The rate at which AI is being developed without reasonable or responsible checks and balances, should be of utmost concern to us all. It is argued that this technology has already reached a point where AGI (or artificial general intelligence) has been achieved. Not that there is anything ‘general’ about something that can think infinitely more methodically and effectively than all of us combined.

It’s hard to imagine what something ten times more intelligent than ourselves would be like, let alone a thousand times over

(and that’s without it communicating between different forms of itself, which is conjectured to be happening already). How do governments, let alone individuals compete with, or remotely counter such presences or entities (if that’s even the right way to reference this new breed of ultimate evolutionary apex dweller)? Once this myriad-faceted genie is out of the bottle, there is absolutely no way of putting it safely back in. None other than Stephen Hawking noted before he passed away in 2018, “The development of full artificial intelligence could spell the end of the human race… It would take off on its own, and re-design itself at an ever-increasing rate. Humans, who are limited by slow biological evolution, couldn’t compete, and would be superseded.” Which could be dismissed by many as being merely alarmist, but there is something chillingly plausible within such a warning. When one of humanity’s greatest thinkers raises this type of concern, then surely, it’d be idiotic of us to just simply ignore it?

In a similar vein, the Canadian informationguru Marshall McLuhan once suggested, “We become what we behold. We shape our tools, and thereafter our tools shape us.” But we are currently being shaped by our tools, I fear, in ways that won’t become evident until it’s much too late. If, as John Searle once surmised, “Our tools are extensions of our purposes” it begs the question then, what is the ultimate purpose of AI, and doubly so, should we ever merely become just the suppressible tools of it?

The meaning we make

Comment By Tim Howard

As I sent off the draft of last week’s column, news arrived of the death of pioneering Australian cancer researcher Professor Richard Scolyer.

I was tempted to acknowledge his contribution to Australian life and science in the column, but instead chose to give him the attention such a life deserved.

Like many Australians I found myself reading the tributes and reflecting on a life that seemed both remarkable and unfair.

I learned of his work when I watched the Australian of the Year Awards a couple of years ago. His dual award with colleague Professor Georgina Long was one of the most deserved I could remember.

Here was a man who had spent his career helping humanity understand and fight cancer, only to be struck down by one of the most aggressive forms of the disease himself.

The instinctive response is to say it is unfair. But unfair according to what standard?

Nature has never conducted moral audits. Floods do not spare the virtuous. Earthquakes do not seek out the wicked. Cancer does not pause to consider the character of its host.

Yet as I read about Dr Scolyer’s final years, I found myself thinking not about politics or science, but about literature.

More specifically, I thought of Albert Camus.

Readers of this column may have noticed I mention Camus with suspicious regularity. Some may conclude I am obsessed with a long-dead French novelist. There are worse accusations.

If I return to Camus so often, it is not because he had all the answers. It is

because he understood the importance of continuing the search.

And this is why I choose to consider the lives of Richard Scolyer and also the AFL player, coach and motor neurone disease campaigner Neale Daniher. Both men would fit comfortably into the pages of a Camus novel.

Neither was granted a reprieve from fate.

One faced an aggressive brain tumour. The other spent years living with “The Beast” as Daniher described MND. Neither could realistically expect victory over the circumstances confronting them.

Yet both responded in the same way.

They continued their work. They continued helping others. They continued finding purpose in lives shadowed by tragedy.

Camus admired people like that.

His heroes were rarely conquerors, prophets or men of destiny. They were doctors, teachers, journalists and ordinary citizens who met suffering without surrendering either their dignity or their humanity.

The central character in Camus’ novel The Plague is Dr Bernard Rieux. He cannot defeat the plague. He cannot save everyone.

He understands better than anyone that suffering and death are inevitable.

Yet he keeps treating patients. When asked what motivates him, he offers no grand philosophy. He simply says that he is doing his job.

That answer has always struck me as profoundly important.

In an age obsessed with finding meaning, Dr Rieux suggested that meaning is not something we discover hidden under a rock. It is something we create through our actions.

The same could be said of Richard Scolyer and Neale Daniher. And perhaps the same could be said of all of us.

For much of my life I have been drawn to writers who questioned certainty. Camus. George Orwell. Günter Grass. Joseph Conrad.

What unites them is not ideology. It is scepticism. They distrusted people who claimed to possess all the answers.

They distrusted movements that promised

heaven on earth. They distrusted those who divided humanity into heroes and villains.

The 20th Century gave them ample reason.

They witnessed fascism, totalitarianism, propaganda, war and political fanaticism. They understood that some of the greatest crimes in history were committed by people who believed they were absolutely right.

Today we face different challenges, but the temptation remains the same.

Every day we are offered simple explanations for complex problems.

Housing is expensive because of foreigners. Migration is destroying the country. Experts are lying. Institutions are corrupt. Everything would be fine if only the right people were in charge.

These stories are appealing because they are simple, but reality rarely is.

One of the lessons I have taken from Camus is that maturity consists partly in learning to live without certainty.

Not abandoning truth. Not embracing cynicism.

Simply accepting that most important questions require humility.

This is where art becomes

important.

Art does not tell us what to think. At its best, it teaches us how to think.

Politics tells us what happened. Economics tells us why.

Art tells us what it felt like.

It takes abstract ideas and turns them into human experience.

The migration debate becomes a family in Biloela.

The pandemic becomes Dr Rieux.

The temptation of certainty becomes Orwell’s Oceania.

The darkness within civilisation becomes Conrad’s Congo.

Art reminds us that statistics are people with names. That ideologies affect human beings. That history happens to somebody.

Perhaps that is why we continue reading books written decades or even centuries ago. They help us understand ourselves.

And perhaps that is why Richard Scolyer’s death affected so many people.

His life reminded us that meaning is not found, it is made.

We often imagine that a meaningful life is one that

avoids suffering.

Richard Scolyer and Neale Daniher suggest something different.

Meaning is found in contribution. In service. In love. In curiosity. In persistence.

The old phrase speaks of “one crowded hour of glorious life” being worth an age without a name. Some people drift through decades of comfortable apathy. Others compress several lifetimes into one.

That, I think, is what Camus was trying to tell us, that the universe may never explain itself.

It may never distribute justice according to merit. It may never provide the answers we seek, but that does not absolve us of responsibility.

Meaning is not waiting for us to discover it.

Meaning is something we create through the lives we live, the work we do, the people we help and the truths we choose to defend.

Richard Scolyer understood that and so did Neale Daniher.

And perhaps that is why their lives will be remembered long after their deaths.

Not because they found meaning, but because they made it.

Council Eyes Funding Opportunities for Future Home of Iconic Hannah Cabinet

By Jeff Gibbs

Lismore City Council has taken the first step toward securing a permanent and protected future for one of the region’s most treasured cultural assets, resolving to investigate funding opportunities for the long-term housing of the internationally acclaimed Hannah Cabinet.

The decision was made during Council’s 2026/27 Budget deliberations, with councillors adopting a Notice of Motion that includes a $0 budget line item. While no direct funding has been allocated at this stage, the measure enables Council to pursue external grants and funding opportunities to investigate suitable options for the cabinet’s future display and preservation.

Created by renowned Lismore craftsman Geoff Hannah OAM, the Hannah Cabinet is widely regarded as one of Australia’s finest examples of contemporary decorative furniture. The masterpiece took more than six-and-a-half years to complete and showcases extraordinary craftsmanship, combining 34 varieties of timber, four rare shells and 17 precious and semi-precious stones. Standing eight feet tall, the cabinet features 18 doors, 140 drawers

and intricate marquetry work that has attracted admiration from around the world. Its significance extends beyond the Northern Rivers, with Geoff Hannah’s work represented in prestigious collections internationally. Among his most notable commissions are two artefact boxes created

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

emma, Class of 2018 at a NSW public school

for Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee State Coach.

The Hannah Cabinet became part of the Lismore Regional Gallery collection following a successful community fundraising campaign aimed at ensuring the work remained in the city where it was created.

Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg said Council’s decision recognised both the artistic importance of the cabinet and its value to the community.

Mayor Krieg recently visited Geoff Hannah to view the cabinet as restoration works continue following damage sustained during the devastating 2022 natural disaster.

He described the work as a remarkable achievement that reflects years of dedication, skill and passion.

“The amount of time, effort and love that has gone into the Hannah Cabinet is extraordinary,”

Mayor Krieg said.

“This is a Lismore asset, but it is also a world-class piece of craftsmanship.”

The restoration project is being undertaken by Geoff Hannah OAM, local craftsperson Colin Fardon and specialist conservators. The painstaking process is

expected to continue until late 2027.

Mayor Krieg said the restoration had highlighted the importance of planning for the cabinet’s long-term future.

He noted that while public accessibility remains a priority, ensuring the cabinet is protected from future risks is equally important.

Council will now investigate options for a secure, accessible and potentially flood-resilient location that can safely house the cabinet while allowing residents and visitors to experience the work firsthand.

The adopted motion does not commit Council to any future expenditure but provides a pathway to seek external funding and explore solutions that safeguard one of Australia’s most extraordinary works of decorative art for future generations.

ind out ho your local public school is inspirin

Cane Harvest Festival Celebrations

It was great to join the Cane Harvest Festival celebrations again this year. This is a wonderful community event showcasing the strength of the industry and the spirit of the Maclean community. It was great to see all of the volunteers, local businesses, sporting clubs, schools and community groups all playing a part. The festival celebrates the region’s important sugar

industry and the people apart of it. Congratulations to Cane Harvest Queen Rhianna McMahon and Princess Lilly Small, along with all entrants. Thank you to the President Allira Robison and the festival committee for another fantastic festival.

Casino Beef Week

Casino Beef Week once again brought the community together with a packed program of events celebrating our region’s beef industry.

From the Beef Week Ball and Fashion Show to the Beef Week Cup greyhound races, the week showcased the dedication of volunteers, local businesses, producers and sponsors. Congratulations to Beef Week Queen Frewoini Baume, runnerup Kate Hepburn and all the ambassadors and entrants. Thank you to the Beef Week Committee for your hard work in delivering another memorable celebration

such a special place. Thank you to all of the local stalls, entertainment, community groups and congratulations to the committee and volunteers for putting on such a successful event.

while honouring the legacy of Brenda Armfield.

Emerald Beach Fair

It was fantastic to be at the Emerald Beach Fair recently. It is a wonderful community event, bringing together locals and visitors for a great day on our beautiful coast. It was great to catch up with so many people and to see the strong community spirit that makes Emerald Beach

I even had the chance to join Coffs Mayor Nikki Williams in the Headspace Push-Up Challenge, a great way to support youth mental health.

Our Kids Winter Ball

The 2026 Our Kids Winter Ball raised more than $50,000 to help purchase paediatric equipment for our local hospitals.

Celebrating its 25th year, the annual event continues to be one of the region’s most significant charity

fundraisers. Thank you to Rebekka and the team, as well as the many local businesses, sponsors and volunteers who helped make the evening such a success.

Boots and Blouses Long Lunch

The annual Boots and Blouses Long Lunch was another fantastic event in our community. It is great to see everyone enjoyed a wonderful afternoon with food prepared by Clarence Valley chef Erin Brown and entertained by Eli Fahey. Congratulations to the Grafton CWA members who attended as special guests as part of their 100-year celebrations.

Romance turned suicidal or was it murder?

Title: Murder at the Dunwich Asylum: Dr Hamish Hart Mysteries

Author: Karen Thurecht

Price: $33.41

Distributor: Amazon

If you have not yet discovered the Dr Hamish Hart Mysteries, I am here to give you a heads up.

The first in the series is Murder at the Dunwich Asylum which takes place at the Dunwich Benevolent Asylum in the 1880s on Stradbroke Island, off the coast of Queensland.

The victims are a young female inmate and her lover, founding hanging not far from the asylum.

While the deaths could be written off as a Romeo and Juliet style finish where they have taken their own lives, a theory held strongly by the superintendent, Dr Hamish is called to check the scene out.

Dr Hamish and his assistant Rita are something of progressive thinkers and their investigations start

Earlier Flood Warnings Boost Safety for Ballina and Wardell Communities

By Robert Heyward

Residents in Ballina and Wardell will now receive earlier and more localised flood warnings thanks to new flood forecast services along the Richmond River, providing communities with more time to prepare for rising floodwaters and severe weather events.

The new services, delivered by the Bureau of Meteorology, are now operational at the Burns Point and Wardell river gauges. The upgraded system enables both the Bureau and the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) to issue flood forecasts and warnings based on predicted river levels at those locations.

The improvements follow ongoing calls for stronger

local flood intelligence in the aftermath of the devastating 2022 floods, which exposed significant gaps in real-time flood information across parts of the Northern Rivers.

Previously, river height information was available for Burns Point and Wardell, but the gauges were not linked to official minor, moderate or major flood classifications. The new system changes that by providing dedicated flood predictions and warnings tailored to local conditions.

NSW SES Acting Assistant Commissioner Brigid Rice told The Northern Rivers Times the enhanced service would help residents make safer decisions before floodwaters arrive.

“These new flood

warning services mean people in Ballina and Wardell will receive clearer information about what rising river levels are expected to mean for their local area, giving them more time to prepare, protect their property and leave early if needed,” Ms Rice said.

She said the service would allow emergency agencies to provide earlier and more targeted warnings, helping communities understand local impacts before roads, homes and businesses are affected.

The NSW SES will use forecasts from the Burns Point and Wardell gauges to issue Advice, Watch and Act, and Emergency Warnings when flooding is expected along the Richmond River.

The system has already been tested during recent severe weather, with a minor flood warning for Ballina issued using the new forecasting service.

The project forms part of the Flood Warning Improvement Project, delivered by the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water through the $75 million Joint Flood Recovery and Resilience Program, funded by the Australian Government’s Emergency Response Fund.

Residents are encouraged to prepare for future flood events by understanding their flood risk, creating emergency plans and using the Hazards Near Me app to receive local warnings and updates.

More Than 125 New Parking Spaces Added at Tweed Valley Hospital

By Robert Heyward

to uncover evidence that does not support the super’s theory.

What makes it worse is what they discover within the asylum itself and the appalling conditions the inmates must live in.

It is a gripping tale and while fictional, it highlights a part of our Australian history many would not be aware of, being the state of the lives of those who ended up in early asylums.

Dr Karen Thurecht holds a Phd in medical anthropology and has always had an interest in cultural belief systems in relation to health and medicine.

She has taught cultural history at the University of Queensland Medical School and Griffith University School. She lives in North Stradbroke Island with her husband and Murder at Dunwich Asylum is the first in a four book series involving Dr Hamish Hart.

You can buy your copy of Murder at Dunwich Asylum at www. amazon.com.au

Patients, visitors and staff at Tweed Valley Hospital now have access to more than 125 additional car parking spaces following the completion of a major parking expansion project on the hospital campus.

The new parking areas have been constructed south of the hospital’s multi-level car park and along the ring road on the northern boundary of the site. The project also included upgraded signage, fresh line marking and enhanced parking management systems designed to improve traffic flow and access across the campus.

Since opening in May 2024, the $723.3 million Tweed Valley Hospital has become a major healthcare hub for the growing Tweed and Byron regions, significantly expanding access to specialist and outpatient services.

The hospital has introduced a range of new services, including interventional cardiology and radiotherapy, while

more than doubling outpatient capacity. The expansion has enabled many residents to receive treatment closer to home rather than travelling outside the region for care.

The additional parking infrastructure was delivered by the Northern NSW Local Health District in partnership with Health Infrastructure.

NSW Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park told The Northern Rivers Times the project would improve access to

healthcare services for the local community.

“Tweed Valley Hospital is a very busy health facility, with hundreds of staff delivering high-quality healthcare every day to the communities of the growing Tweed-Byron region,” Mr Park said.

“These works have boosted parking capacity on site, improving access to the hospital and vital health services for the local community.”

Labor spokesperson for Tweed Emily Suvaal said

the additional parking was already having a positive impact on visitors and staff.

“The additional parking at Tweed Valley Hospital is already making a difference for our community, with those who visit the hospital campus every day finding it easier to park,” Ms Suvaal said. She added that improved access would reduce stress for staff and help ease anxiety for patients and visitors attending appointments and treatments.

Seniors Australia’sCarryHeaviest Back Pain Burden as Chronic Pain Takes Growing Toll

Seniors Carry Australia’s Heaviest Back Pain Burden as Chronic Pain and Mental Health Concerns Rise

By Jeff Gibbs

Older Australians are carrying the nation’s greatest burden of back pain, with new research revealing high levels of chronic pain, declining mobility, sleep disruption and increasing mental health impacts among the country’s ageing population.

Data released by the Australian Chiropractors Association (ACA) during the final week of National Spinal Health Month shows back pain has become a significant and ongoing health challenge for many seniors, affecting both their physical wellbeing and quality of life.

The findings come from the 2026 Australian Spinal Health Survey, an independent national survey of 1,040 Australian adults conducted by Pureprofile. The survey found that 83.3 per cent of Australians aged 61 and over experienced back pain during the past 12 months, while almost half (48.3 per cent) reported

chronic pain lasting three months or longer — the highest rate of any age group surveyed.

ACA President Dr Billy Chow said the results demonstrate that back pain among seniors is often a long-term condition rather than a temporary health complaint.

“The survey reveals that for most older Australians, back pain is not a temporary complaint that will resolve on its own – it is a persistent, long-term condition that impacts their lives,” Dr Chow said. The survey also revealed that only 16.5 per cent of seniors suffering low back pain reported their condition had completely resolved. Among Australians aged 81 years and older, the rate of chronic back pain climbed even higher to 56.8 per cent.

Mobility and Independence Under Pressure

One of the most significant findings was the impact back pain is having on mobility and independence

among older Australians.

More than 42 per cent of seniors reported reduced mobility as a direct result of back pain, substantially higher than the national average of 25.3 per cent across all sufferers. Nearly 30 per cent also reported sleep disruption caused by their condition.

Dr Chow said reduced mobility and poor sleep can have far-reaching consequences for older people.

“Loss of mobility and disrupted sleep in older age can impact independence, social participation and mental wellbeing because when back pain limits a person's ability to move freely, it can accelerate functional decline and increase isolation,” he said.

Health experts warn that diminished mobility can increase the risk of falls, reduce participation in community activities and make it more difficult for seniors to maintain independent living arrangements.

Mental Health Effects

Emerging

While younger Australians generally reported higher levels of anxiety and depression overall, the survey found chronic back pain is having a notable impact on the mental health of many seniors.

Among Australians aged between 61 and 70, 17.3 per cent reported experiencing depression or anxiety directly linked to their back pain. The figure rose to 18.6 per cent among women in that age bracket.

Overall, 30.3 per cent of seniors reported a moderate-to-extreme mental health impact associated with their condition.

Dr Chow said the retirement years appear to be a critical period where chronic pain and mental health challenges increasingly intersect.

“The data tells us that the retirement years are a critical point for the mental health of older Australians suffering back pain because when it develops into a chronic condition, depression and anxiety rise,” he said.

Research cited by the ACA indicates people living with chronic pain are at heightened risk of mental health conditions, creating a cycle where pain and psychological distress can reinforce one another.

Heavy Reliance on Pain Medication

The survey also

highlighted concerns around medication use among older Australians.

Seniors recorded the highest daily use of pain medication of any age group, with 15.7 per cent taking over-thecounter pain relief every day and 14.7 per cent relying on prescription medication daily. This comes despite growing evidence questioning the effectiveness of many commonly prescribed pain medications for long-term back pain management.

Health professionals say this reinforces the need for broader treatment approaches that address both physical and psychological aspects of chronic pain.

Active Care Showing Positive Results

The ACA pointed to a growing body of Australian research supporting active treatment approaches for older adults suffering chronic back pain.

Studies led by CQUniversity researcher

Associate Professor Katie de Luca found chronic low back pain in older people is associated with reduced mobility, frailty, poor sleep, falls and moderateto-severe disability. The research also found strong links between depressive symptoms and future back pain episodes.

However, the research also identified positive outcomes through targeted exercise programs and

multidisciplinary care.

The COMEBACK study, which examined adapted exercise programs for older Australians with back pain and additional health conditions, found participants experienced improved functional capacity and aerobic fitness, reduced depression and anxiety, lower levels of frailty and an overall improvement in quality of life.

The findings align with the World Health Organization’s 2023 guidelines, which support active care approaches, including exercise and spinal manipulation, while discouraging prolonged bed rest for most back pain sufferers.

Encouraging Seniors to Seek Help

As National Spinal Health Month concludes, the ACA is encouraging older Australians, their families and carers not to dismiss back pain as an unavoidable part of ageing.

The organisation says maintaining mobility, remaining physically active and seeking evidence-based healthcare can help reduce painrelated disability, improve mental wellbeing and support independent, healthy ageing.

Dr Chow said spinal health plays a vital role in overall wellbeing throughout life.

“A healthy spine supports a healthy mind at every stage of life,” he said.

MINIONS & MONSTERS REVIEW

Chaotic Fun With Plenty of Laughs

events that threatens to spiral completely out of control.

The lovable yellow troublemakers are back, and this time they are heading to Hollywood in Minions & Monsters, the latest animated adventure from Illumination.

Packed with slapstick comedy, colourful animation and the trademark gibberish that has made the Minions a global phenomenon, this family-friendly outing delivers exactly what fans have come to expect – pure, unapologetic fun.

Set in the glamour and chaos of 1920s Hollywood, the story follows the Minions as they attempt to make their own monster movie. Naturally, nothing goes according to plan. Their quest to find the perfect creatures for the film unleashes real monsters into the world, creating a hilarious chain of

What follows is a fast-paced adventure as the Minions try to clean up the mayhem they accidentally created.

Director Pierre Coffin, who has been instrumental in shaping the Minions franchise from the beginning, once again understands exactly what audiences want from these characters. Rather than overcomplicating the story, he focuses on visual comedy, ridiculous situations and a steady stream of laughout-loud moments that appeal to both children and adults. Visually, the film is a delight. The recreation of vintage Hollywood is vibrant and imaginative, filled with old movie studios, eccentric filmmakers and largerthan-life monster creations.

The animation is crisp and energetic, while the monster designs add an extra layer

of creativity that helps distinguish this instalment from previous Minions adventures.

The voice cast features an impressive lineup including Jeff Bridges, Christoph Waltz, Jesse Eisenberg, Zoey Deutch and Allison Janney. While the Minions themselves remain the true stars of the show, the supporting characters provide plenty of personality and help drive the story forward.

What makes Minions & Monsters work so well is its willingness to embrace absurdity. The film never takes itself seriously and instead leans heavily into its cartoon roots. Whether the Minions are accidentally unleashing monsters, causing havoc on movie sets or stumbling their way through another impossible situation, the humour remains lighthearted and entertaining throughout.

Like most Minions films, the plot is fairly simple and predictable, but that is hardly the point. This is a movie designed to make audiences laugh, and it succeeds admirably. Younger viewers will love the non-stop action and colourful characters, while parents will appreciate the clever visual gags and Hollywood references sprinkled throughout. While it may not reach the heights of the original Despicable Me, Minions & Monsters is another winning entry in one of animation’s most successful franchises. It is funny, energetic and packed with enough chaos to keep the whole family entertained.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

A monster-sized dose of Minion madness that delivers laughs, adventure and plenty of yellow-fuelled chaos from start to finish.

SPECIAL SCREENINGS

BATMAN (1966) (G) Mon: 6:30PM - Cult Vault

NT LIVE: THE PLAYBOY OF THE WESTERN WORLD (CTC) Thurs, Sun: 6:00PM. Fri, Sat: 1:00PM

FAMILY FILMS

MINIONS & MONSTERS (PG) NFT

Daily: 10:30AM, 1:30PM, 2:45PM, 4:45PM, 5:45PM, 6:45PM

THE SHEEP DETECTIVES (PG) Daily: 1:10PM

TOY STORY 5 (G) NFT

Daily: 10:40AM, 11:20AM, 12:50PM, 3:00PM, 5:15PM, 6:00PM

ALL FILMS

BACKROOMS (M) Daily: 1:40PM, 8:40PM

DISCLOSURE DAY (M) Daily except Fri, Sat: 12:50PM, 2:50PM, 5:40PM, 7:45PM. Fri, Sat: 2:50PM, 4:00PM, 5:40PM, 7:45PM

GLENROTHAN (M) NFT Daily: 10:50AM, 4:00PM

LEVITICUS (MA15+) Daily: 12:50PM, 8:30PM

MICHAEL (PG) Daily: 11:00AM, 6:00PM

OBSESSION (MA15+) Daily: 3:40PM, 8:40PM

STAR WARS: THE MANDALORIAN AND GROGU (M) Sat: 10:30AM. Tues, Wed: 8:15PM

SUPERGIRL (M) NFT Daily: 10:30AM, 12:30PM, 3:30PM, 7:30PM, 8:15PM THE CHRISTOPHERS (MA15+) Daily: 3:30PM

THE DEATH OF ROBIN HOOD (MA15+) Daily except Sat: 10:30AM, 8:30PM. Sat: 8:30PM THE MUSICIANS (PG) Thurs, Sun, Mon: 10:40AM, 3:50PM. Fri, Sat: 10:40AM, 7:00PM. Tues, Wed: 10:40AM, 3:50PM, 6:00PM TUNER (MA15+) Daily: 1:00PM, 6:10PM

DISCLOSURE DAY (M) Daily except Thurs: 10:00AM, 6:50PM. Thurs: 11:00AM, 6:50PM MINIONS & MONSTERS (PG) NFT Daily except Thurs, Mon: 10:00AM, 1:00PM, 2:45PM, 5:30PM. Thurs: 10:00AM, 12:00PM, 2:45PM, 5:30PM. Mon: 10:00AM, 1:00PM, 3:00PM, 5:30PM

OBSESSION (MA15+) Daily: 7:20PM

SUPERGIRL (M) NFT Daily except Thurs: 3:00PM, 5:00PM, 7:30PM. Thurs: 2:30PM, 5:00PM, 7:30PM TOY STORY 5 (G) NFT Daily except Thurs: 9:45AM, 12:00PM, 2:15PM, 4:30PM. Thurs: 9:45AM, 2:15PM, 4:30PM

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

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

TIME FOR TRIVIA

1 Which movie is considered to be the first “talking” movie?

(a) Pollyanna

(b) The Jazz Singer

(c) The Mark of Zorro

(d) The Three Musketeers

2 Gertrude Coppard and Walter Morel are two of the main characters in which classic novel by D. H. Lawrence?

(a) The Rainbow

(b) Women in Love

(c) Sons and Lovers

(d) Lady Chatterley’s Lover

3 Who is the host of the 2026 TV series, Farmer Wants a Wife?

(a) Sam Artmitage

(b) Natalie Gruzlewski

(c) Sonia Kruger

(d) Rebecca Gibney

4 Fajans and Soddy law is most closely associated with which of the following?

(a) Chroma keying

(b) Tidal locking

(c) Radioactive decay

(d) Biological classification

5 Mick Malthouse started his football career with which club in 1972?

(a) St Kilda Saints

(b) Hawthorn Hawks

(c) Richmond Tigers

(d) Essendon Bombers

6 The flag of Greece consists of which two colours?

(a) Red and white

(b) Black and white

(c) Blue and white

(d) Green and white

WEEKLY CROSSWORD

WHICH WORDS

Which is the correct meaning for these words?

1 ADDUCENT

(a) Drawing towards

(b) Devoted to a practice

(c) Supplementary

2 COGNOMEN

(a) A surname

(b) Perception

(c) A design or plan

3 INGRATE

(a) A very low carbon steel

(b) An ungrateful person

(c) Something formed by growth inwards

4 PECCANT

(a) Worn on the chest

(b) Unusual

(c) Sinning or offending

5 SANGFROID

(a) Coolness of mind

(b) A red iron oxide crayon

(c) Sacred or hallowed character

SUNDAY MASTERCHEF AUSTRALIA

TEN, 7pm

For 18 years, we’ve watched as contestants chased their culinary dreams in the MasterChef kitchen, but last year’s Back to Win season cooked up something new: a romance. On Sunday, Declan Cleary and Sarah Todd (both above) return to the place where it all began, with their 11-week-old twin daughters, Claudia and Charlotte, in tow. To welcome the babies into the MasterChef family, there’s a familiar challenge in store. Contestants will team up and cook with a partner on either side of a wall – the pair that cook the dishes least alike in look and taste will go directly into the elimination at the end of the week. While some dishes might be twice as nice, others land their makers in double trouble.

FRIDAY, June 26

WEDNESDAY GUY MONTGOMERY’S GUY MONT SPELLING BEE

ABC TV, 8.35pm

It’s a good thing that Kiwi comedian Guy Montgomery has written his name all over this tongue-incheek televised spelling bee – as his wonderfully weird new assistant, Sam Campbell (right), steals just about every segment in which he appears. Sporting an impish grin and outlandish costumes – most memorably a scary party clown, the realitywarping “clock man” and a handsy game show host – Campbell conducts chaos like electricity, even catching the rocksteady Montgomery off guard a few times. In Wednesday’s season three finale, Sam fulfils his landlord duties before the curiously Cambpell-esque robot, Spell-droid 3000, takes to the stage.

THURSDAY EVA LONGORIA: SEARCHING FOR FRANCE

embarks on another flavourful journey in this eight-part series that pairs perfectly with SBS’s upcoming Tour de France coverage. Whether you favour soufflé, patisserie or sautéed vegies, it’s impossible to overstate the European nation’s influence on modern dining. Longoria’s genuine affinity for French culture, cuisine and history shine through her adventure, which begins this week in Paris, where she explores “the art of the table” and meets the young chefs leading a new food scene.

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

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Compass. (PG, R) 10.25 Stu The British Stole. (PG, R) 11.00 Race Around The World. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Portrait Artist Of The Year. (R) 1.45 Ground Up. (Md, R)

2.15 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R) 3.00 Restoration Aust. (PG, R) 4.00 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGa) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Monty Don’s British Gardens. Monty Don visits the north of Britain and Northern Ireland.

8.30 Shetland. (Final, Mlv) Calder and Tosh turn their focus on Lisa, until her confession unearths a shocking event.

9.30 Twenty Twenty Six. (M, R) Conspiracy claims cause a crisis for Oversight.

10.30 Gruen. (PG, R) Presented by Wil Anderson.

11.10 ABC Late News.

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

12.10 The Control Room. (Mal, R)

1.10 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

6.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group E. Ecuador v Germany. Continued. 8.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group F. Japan v Sweden. 11.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group D. Paraguay v Australia. 2.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group C. Scotland v Brazil. Replay. 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 Your Money & Your Life. (PG) 1.30 Border Security: International. (PGd, R) 2.00 Bridge Of Lies: Celebrity Specials. (R) 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.

6.00 Mastermind Australia.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group D. Paraguay v Australia. Replay.

9.30 Wogball: Australia’s Beautiful Game. (PGal, R) Presented by Anthony LaPaglia.

10.40 SBS World News Late.

11.10 FIFA World Cup 2026: Highlights Show.

11.40 The King. (Mad)

12.35 The Typist. (Masv, R) 1.45 Patagonia. (PG, R)

3.20 Great British Railway Journeys. (PGa, R)

3.55 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG, R)

4.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group I. Norway v France.

VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 1.30pm PJ Masks. 1.50 Kangaroo Beach. 2.30 Daniel Tiger’s. 2.45 The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 3.25 Wiggle. 4.05 Andy’s Dino Island. 4.40 Ariel. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.30 MOVIE: Spy Kids. (2001, PG) 9.05 Caper Crew. 9.50 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Morning Programs.

6.00 7News Local. 6.30 7News @ 6:30. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs and the team demonstrate some terri c ideas for the house, garden and the kitchen.

8.00 MOVIE: The Devil Wears Prada. (2006, PGl, R) A young woman is hired as an assistant to the ruthless editor of a leading fashion magazine in Manhattan. Anne Hathaway, Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt.

10.20 To Be Advised.

12.00 MOVIE: Murder And Matrimony. (2021, Mav, R) A wedding planner investigates a murder. Kristen Vaganos, Benedict Mazurek.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

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

7TWO (62)

3pm DW The Day. 3.35 BBC News At Ten. 4.05 France 24. 4.35 PBS News. 5.40 Inside The Huddle. 6.10 Over The Black Dot. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Cup Fever! 9.00 Mysteries Unearthed. 9.50 The Americans. 10.45 Fashionista. 11.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group D. Paraguay v Australia. Replay. 1am Creamerie. 2.05 NHK World English News. 4.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group I. Senegal v Iraq. 6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Animal Rescue. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon House Of Wellness. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 The Great Australian Doorstep. 2.30 Weekender. 3.00 Imagine Holidays Iconic Rail Journeys. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Animal Rescue. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.

7MATE (64) SBS MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 2.05pm ER. 2.45 Abbott Elementary. 3.05 QI. 3.35 Would I Lie To You? 4.05 MythBusters. 4.55 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent. 5.45 Grand Designs NZ. 6.30 House Of Games. 7.00 Spicks And Specks. 7.30 QI. 8.00 Would I Lie To You? 8.30 MOVIE: Tin

Today. 9.00 Today

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 17. Brisbane Broncos v Sydney Roosters. From Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane. 9.55 NRL Friday Night Footy Post-Match. Post-match coverage and analysis of the NRL game between the Brisbane Broncos and Sydney Roosters.

10.45 MOVIE: Lethal Weapon 3. (1992, Mlv, R) Mel Gibson.

1.00 Next Stop. (R) A look at holiday destinations.

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) Clancy and Matt battle a  re.

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

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

9GEM (82)

6am Seaway. 7.00 Cre o. 7.30 CruiseAway. 8.00

Shop. 10.30 Pointless. 11.30 My Favorite Martian. Noon Tycoons

Under. 1.00 The Brokenwood Mysteries.

6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney.

7.30 Selling Houses Australia. (R) A couple want to travel in a converted bus.

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

9.30 10’s Late News. Comprehensive coverage of local, national and international news, as well as the latest sport and weather.

10.30 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 11.30 10 News+. (R) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

Antiques Roadshow. 3.30 MOVIE: Josephine And Men. (1955) 5.30 Yorkshire Auction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Escape To The Chateau. 8.40 MOVIE: Quantum Of Solace. (2008, M) 10.50 Forensics: The Real CSI. 12.05am Tra c Cops On The Edge. 1.10 Cre o. 1.40 Late Programs. DRAMA (51)

9GO! (83) 6am The Movie Show. 6.25 The Boy And The Heron. (2023, PG) 8.45 Teen Spirit. (2018, PG) 10.25 20,000 Species Of Bees. (2023, M, Spanish) 12.45pm Staring At Strangers. (2022, M, Spanish) 2.45 Discovering Film. 3.35 Madison. (2020, PG, German) 5.15 Big Fish. (2003, PG) 7.30 Next Goal Wins. (2023, M) 9.30 John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum. (2019, MA15+) 11.55 The Client. (1994, M) 2.10am John Wick: Chapter 2. (2017, MA15+) 4.20 Vampire Seeking Consenting Person. (2023, M, French)

6am Morning Programs. 11.30 Jeopardy! UK. 12.30pm Sur ng Aust. 1.00 Snackmasters. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 MOVIE: Harry Potter And The Philosopher’s Stone. (2001, PG) 10.45 MOVIE: Amsterdam. (2022, MA15+) 1.25am The Real Housewives Of Salt Lake City. 3.05 Jeopardy! UK. 4.00 Barbie It Takes Two. 4.30 Barney’s World. 4.50 LEGO Friends: Girls On A Mission. 5.10 Cry Babies Magic Tears. 5.30 Beyblade Burst QuadStrike. 6am Morning Programs. 10.00 Mountain Men. 11.00 Frozen Gold.

COMEDY (52)

SATURDAY, June 27

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

6.00 Rage Charts. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Rage. (PG) 10.30 Rage Vault Guest Programmer. (PG) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Death In Paradise. (Final, Mv, R) 1.30 Shetland. (Final, Mlv, R) 2.25 TSO: Beethoven’s 5th. 3.30 The Piano UK: The Incredibly Talented Lucy. (PG, R) 4.30 Stu The British Stole. (PG, R) 5.00 Deep End: The Scott Miller Story. (R) 5.30 Landline. (R)

6.00 Kath & Kim. (PGals, R)

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

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

7.30 Classic 100 Concert 2026. A celebration of the 50th anniversary of ABC Classic.

9.00 Australian Chamber Orchestra’s 50th Gala. (R)

A celebration of the Australian Chamber Orchestra after 50 years of transcending boundaries and rede ning music.

10.05 The Capture. (MA15+, R) The tables turn once again for Rachel Carey. 11.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

6.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group I. NOR v FRA. Cont. 7.30 DW English News. 8.00 Al Jazeera. 8.30 BBC News At Six. 9.00 France 24 English News. 9.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group H. URU v ESP. 12.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group G. NZ v BEL. 3.30 Sailing. Sail Grand Prix. H’lights. 4.30 Hitler: A Life In Pictures. (PGa, R) 5.30 Anzac. Lemnos. 1915. (PGa, R)

6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Jewels Of The Mediterranean. (PGas)

8.25 National Parks From Above: Ireland. (PGa, R) 9.20 We Are Jeni. (Malv, R)

11.00 FIFA World Cup 2026: Highlights Show.

11.30 Snowpiercer. (Mv, R)

1.15 The Elon Musk Show. (Mal, R)

3.20 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PGa, R)

4.50 Destination Flavour Down Under Bitesize. (R)

5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Horse Racing. McKell Cup Day, Caul eld Winter Race Day and Tiara Raceday. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs. 8.00 MOVIE: Twister. (1996, PGalv, R) Two meteorologists on the brink of divorce are forced to work together after they are caught in a severe storm. Helen Hunt, Bill Paxton, Cary Elwes. 10.20 MOVIE: 65. (2023, Mv, R) An astronaut crash-lands on prehistoric Earth. Adam Driver, Ariana Greenblatt. 12.10 MOVIE: Dead In The Water. (2021, Mav, R) Catherine Lidstone. 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 It’s Academic. (R) 5.00 House Of Wellness. (PG, R)

(8, 80)

6.00 Getaway. (PG, R) 6.30 A Current A air. (R) 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00

6.00 9News Saturday.

7.00 A Current A air.

7.30 MOVIE: National Treasure: Book Of Secrets. (2007, PGv, R) A treasure hunter goes on a journey. Nicolas Cage.

9.55 MOVIE: Aquaman. (2018, Mav, R) A half-human, half-Atlantean goes on a quest. Jason Momoa.

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

2.05 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa)

2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 Global Shop. (R)

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

6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Grey nomads are on the hunt for a four-legged companion to join them on their caravan adventures.

7.30 Selling Houses Australia. (PGa) The team must update a dated house when a couple decide to sell their Drysdale homestead. 9.40 Ambulance UK. (Madl, R) Crewmates help an elderly patient at the local boatyard who has been on the oor for two days. 12.00 FBI. (Mav, R) A federal judge disappears. 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.

VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 1.30pm PJ Masks. 1.50 Kangaroo Beach. 2.30 The Makery. 2.45 Wiggle. 3.00 Play School. 3.25 HexVets And Magic Pets. (Premiere)

4.30 Little J And Big Cuz. 5.10 Octonauts And The Caves Of Sac Actun. 6.25 Emerald. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.30 Kids Baking C’ship. 8.10 Kids BBQ Championship. 8.55 Chopped Jnr. 10.00 Fresh O The Boat. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)

ABC ENTERTAINS (23)

SBS MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 2.40pm My Family. 3.10 A Bite To Eat. 3.35 QI. 4.05 Would I Lie To You? 4.35 MythBusters. 5.25 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent. 6.15 Grand Designs NZ. 7.00 Spicks And Specks. 7.30 QI. 8.00 Would I Lie To You? 8.30 Guy Mont Spelling Bee. 9.20 Live At The Apollo. (Final) 10.05 Arrested Development. 11.10 ER. 11.55 My Family. 12.25am Rage. 1.25 Late Programs.

6am Porco Rosso. (1992, PG) 7.45 Big Fish. (2003, PG) 10.00 Discovering Film. 10.50 Next Goal Wins. (2023, M) 12.50pm Vampire Seeking Consenting Person. (2023, M, French) 2.30 Boychoir. (2014, PG) 4.20 Forever Enthralled. (2008, PG, Mandarin) 7.00 Suddenly. (1954, PG) 8.30 Fargo. (1996, MA15+) 10.20 Baby. (2024, Portuguese) 12.25am Late Programs.

7TWO (62)

7MATE (64)

9GEM (82)

MOVIE: Shalako. (1968, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: The Fugitive. (1993, M) 10.05 MOVIE: The Monuments Men. (2014, M) 12.25am Late Programs. DRAMA (51)

9GO! (83)

6am Morning Programs. 3.10pm MOVIE: Batman Forever. (1995, PG) 5.40 MOVIE: Undercover Blues. (1993, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Gone In 60 Seconds. (2000, M) 9.50 MOVIE: He Ain’t Heavy. (2024, MA15+) Midnight Prodigal Son. 2.00 MOVIE: Roadkill. (2022, MA15+) 4.00 Sur ng Aust. 4.30 Barney’s World. 4.50 Cry Babies Magic Tears. 5.10 Mia & Codie. 5.30 Wild Manes.

(52)

Scho

6am Morning Programs. 1pm Blokesworld. 1.30 Lady Torque TV. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00 Motor Racing. National Drag Racing Championship. Round 3. Nitro Champs. 4.00 Duck Dynasty. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Storage Wars. 7.30 MOVIE: Back To The Future Part II. (1989, PG) 9.45 MOVIE: The Man From Toronto. (2022, M) 12.05am Late Programs. 6am Good

And The Beautiful. 9.30

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

Hidden Restaurants. 10.30 Eating Inn. 11.30 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 1.10pm Nula. 1.40 Undiscovered Vistas. 2.30 Over The Black Dot. 3.00 Stompem Ground 2022: Footprince. 3.25 The Frontier. 4.30 Faboriginal. 5.00 Big Name, No Blanket. 6.00 Home, Land & Sea. 6.40 The Other Side. 7.30 Alone Australia. 8.35 MOVIE: A Nightmare On Elm Street. (1984, MA15+) 10.15 MOVIE: Chuck Berry. (2018, PG) 12.05am Late Programs. SKY NEWS (53) NITV (34) SBS FOOD (33) 6am Morning Programs. 3.30pm FIFA World Cup 2026: Highlights Show. 4.15 WorldWatch. 6.15 Mastermind Aust. 6.45 The Mega-Brands That Built The World. 7.35 Abandoned Americana. 8.30 Cup Fever! 9.00 The Death Coast. 9.50 The Americans. 11.00 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Group E. Ecuador v Germany. Replay. 2am NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera. 6am Morning Programs. 10.30 Auction Squad. 11.30 GetOn Extra. Noon Australia’s Amazing Homes. 1.00 Harry’s Practice. 1.30 Better Homes. 2.30 Secrets Of Beautiful Gardens. 3.30 Escape To The Country. 4.30 The Salvation Army: Red Shield Appeal. 5.00 Dog Patrol. 5.30 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. 6.30 Bondi Vet. 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Lewis. 10.30 Escape To The Country.

SUNDAY, June 28

TV (2)

6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 Wknd

6.30 Compass: Furnished With Love.

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Race Around The World. (PG)

8.30 Ground Up. (Mls) Hugh weathers protests against the club.

9.00 The Capture. (MA15+) Carey is under pressure to charge Whitlock.

10.00 MOVIE: Strictly Ballroom. (1992, PG, R) A dancer goes against the establishment. Paul Mercurio.

11.30 Darby And Joan. (PG, R)

1.00 Rage. (MA15+dhlnsv)

3.05 Australia Remastered. (R)

4.05 Movin’ To The Country. (R)

4.30 Poh’s Kitchen. (R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

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6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Heist: The Louvre’s Stolen Crown Jewels. (PGl)

8.25 Ei el Tower: Building The Impossible. (PGan, R) 10.10 Big Fat Quiz Best Bits: Ultimate Rivals. (Mals, R) 11.05 FIFA World Cup 2026: Highlights Show. 11.35 Pretty Baby: Brooke Shields. (MA15+a, R) 2.05 Queen Victoria’s Royal Mob. (Ml, R)

3.50 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (R) 4.30 Soccer. FIFA World Cup. Round of 32.

VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 11.30 Wiggle. 11.45 Andy And The Band. 1.30pm PJ Masks. 1.50 Kangaroo Beach. 2.30 The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 3.25 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 4.10 Dino Dex. 5.10 The Wiggles. 6.05 PJ Masks. 6.25 Emerald. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.30 MOVIE: My Freaky Family. (2024, PG) 8.55 Animal Park. 10.20 Secrets Of The Zoo. 11.05 Late Programs.

ABC ENTERTAINS (23)

SBS MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 2.40pm Whose Line Is It Anyway? 3.05 My Family. 3.35 QI. 4.05 Would Lie To You? 4.35 MythBusters. 5.25 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent. 6.15 Grand Designs NZ. 7.00 Spicks And Specks. 7.30 QI. 8.00 Would I Lie To You? 8.30 Amazing Spaces. 9.20 Race Around The World. 10.20 ER. 11.05 O siders. 11.35 My Family. 12.05am Rage. 1.10 Late Programs.

6am Forever Enthralled. Continued. (2008, PG, Mandarin) 8.15 Suddenly. (1954, PG) 9.45 Discovering Film. 10.35 A Singular Crime. (2022, M, Spanish) 12.45pm Banel & Adama. (2023, M, French) 2.25 Madison. (2020, PG, German) 4.05 Thirteen Days. (2000, PG) 6.40 Storm Boy. (2019, PG) 8.30 Pasa Faho. (2025, M) 10.10 The Peacemaker. (1997, MA15+) 12.25am Fargo. (1996, MA15+) 2.20 Late Programs.

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

8.30 7NEWS Spotlight. Focuses on major breaking news events and long-form investigations of national signi cance.

9.30 24 Hours In Police Custody: Black Widow Pt 1. (MA15+al, R) Police investigate a murder conspiracy.

11.50 Autopsy USA: Elizabeth Montgomery. (Ma, R) 12.50 Angelyne. (Premiere, Madl)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

7TWO (62)

7MATE (64)

6am Morning Programs. 8.30 Garage 41. 9.00 Duck Dynasty. 10.00 Pawn Stars. 11.00 Storage Wars. 11.30 Step Outside. Noon The Fishing Show By AFN. 1.00 Fishing Addiction. 2.00 Fishy Business. 2.30 AFL Pre-Game. 3.00 Football. AFL. Round 16. North Melbourne v Essendon. 6.00 Border Security: Int. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 MOVIE: The Patriot. (2000, MA15+) 11.45 Late Programs.

6.00 9News Sunday.

7.00 60 Minutes.

8.00 The Long Run. (Ml) Twelve athletes prepare for the New York Marathon.

9.30 9News Late.

10.00 The First 48: The Devil You Know. (Mav)

11.00 Love Cheats. (Ma, R)

11.50 Tasman Trails. (R)

12.40 Fish Forever. (R)

1.05 GolfBarons. (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

4.30 CampByMe.

5.00 Today Early News.

5.30 Today.

9GEM (82)

9GO! (83)

6am Morning Programs. 2.25pm Sur ng Aust. 2.55 The Summit. 5.30 MOVIE: Who Framed Roger Rabbit? (1988, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2. (2015, M) 10.10 MOVIE: Fear Below. (2024, M) Midnight Arrow. 3.20 The Summit. 4.30 Lego Dreamzzz. 5.10 Cry Babies Magic Tears. 5.30 Beyblade Burst QuadStrike.

6.30 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 7.00 MasterChef Australia. (PG) The 10 cooks face the iconic twins challenge inspired by MasterChef couple Sarah Todd and Declan Cleary. 8.15 Watson. (PGal) Watson and the team work alongside Laila to help a patient named Maxine, a 30-year-old who looks 10 years old. 9.15 FBI. (MA15+v) Scola and Special Agent

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COMEDY (52)

6am Good Chef Bad Chef. 7.00 Deal Or No Deal. 9.30 Family Feud. 1pm Friends. 6.00 The Big Bang Theory. 10.30 Ridiculousness. Midnight Home Shopping.

It

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

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

TARGET TIME

N M O

S G R

N A T

Today’s target: 16 words average 20 words good 26+ words excellent

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

ASTROLOGY

ARIES (Mar 21 - Apr 19)

The Sun, Mercury and Jupiter are visiting clannish Cancer, so it’s a suitable time to tackle a domestic project, clean the house or organise a family get-together. If you’re travelling, it’s likely to be somewhere you’ve been before, where you feel completely at home. But have you been feeling like a tired and lacklustre Ram, with too many activities crammed into your timetable? Some rest and relaxation (at Casa Aries) could be just what the doctor ordered.

TAURUS (Apr 20 - May 20)

Bulls can too easily get bogged down in a boring old rut. But this week – with dynamic Mars charging through your sign – you’re full of creative ideas and keen to make exciting connections. You could also be asked to do some volunteer work in your local community or contribute to a humanitarian project, as you reach out to those who are less fortunate. Sunday’s positive Mars/ Jupiter link favours proactive communication and catching up with friends.

GEMINI (May 21 - June 20)

Mercury, Jupiter and the Sun are visiting your money zone, which increases your spontaneous and extravagant side. So be careful you don’t indulge in a ‘comfort shopping’ spree that you later regret. Slow down and think things through. Remember … good things eventually come to Geminis who wait! Tuesday is terrific for serious conversations, cosy companionship and networking with friends, acquaintances and professional connections.

CANCER (June 21 - July 22)

This week the Sun, Mercury and Jupiter are moving through Cancer, which stirs up your sensitive emotions. Plus, the Sun/Neptune square increases professional problems or personal insecurities. But becoming emotionally overwrought won’t help matters. Instead, tune into the week’s positive aspects as you learn to love yourself, celebrate your strengths and follow a cherished dream. Tuesday favours money matters and long-term financial plans.

TINY CROSS WORD

LEO (July 23 - Aug 22)

Expect a rather confusing week, as nebulous

Neptune squares the Sun (your ruling planet).

If you sweat the small stuff, then you’ll just end up feeling tired and emotional by the end of the week. It’s time to de-stress as the Sun, Mercury and Jupiter light up your spiritual/solitude zone and you meditate, contemplate, ruminate and relax.

Calm down, Cats – you might just enjoy it! Thursday favours catching up with old friends and making long-term plans.

VIRGO (Aug 23 - Sep 22)

With the Sun, Mercury and Jupiter activating your hopes-and-wishes zone, it’s time to articulate (and write down) your goals and dreams for the future. Then you can put them into action. Thursday favours disciplined, creative work. But don’t let a loved one or work colleague manipulate you, as they try to persuade you to do something against your better judgment. Have the strength – and common sense – to stand your ground and say no.

With a firm smile.

LIBRA (Sep 23 - Oct 22)

Polite Librans are the peacemakers of the zodiac. And you’ll certainly require your diplomacy skills this week, when a relationship with a partner or work colleague could be confusing and frustrating. The best way to handle the situation is with plenty of patience and understanding. The Sun, Mercury and Jupiter activate your career zone, so don’t be a wallflower. Speak up and promote your talents! If you procrastinate, then a golden opportunity will pass you by.

SCORPIO (Oct 23 - Nov 21)

It’s a good week to channel energy into travel, education and expanding your mind. Your communication skills are firing, as you extend your peer group and make creative new connections. Unhappily single? With Mars visiting your relationship zone, it’s time to be more proactive about finding love. Coupled Scorpio – surprise your sweetheart with a special romantic gesture. But confused thinking is a danger on Thursday and Friday, so try to relax body and mind.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 - Dec 21)

Most fiery Sagittarians are spontaneous folk, but this week you need to carefully consider the consequences of what you do and say. If you act in haste – without all the relevant facts at hand – then you could find yourself deep in a disagreement or a messy misunderstanding (especially with a child, teenager, lover or friend). Sunday’s super Mars/Jupiter link favours sport and travel (and boosts confidence and optimism) so make the most of it!

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 - Jan 19)

The Sun, Mercury and Jupiter are jumping through your relationship zone, so put the needs of loved ones at the top of your to-do list. Walk in their shoes for a while. And Venus trines Saturn on Thursday, which boosts drive, ambition and organisational skills. Be inspired by birthday great, actress Meryl Streep (who turns 77 on Monday): “The great gift of human beings is that we have the power of empathy.” Sunday favours travelling with loved ones.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 - Feb 18)

The Sun/Neptune square affects your communication and work zones, so steer clear of a smooth operator who could lead you up the primrose path to trouble. Check all news, proposals and information carefully. If something sounds too good to be true, then turn around and start walking in the opposite direction! And ask a trusted colleague for a second opinion. It is a good week to eat well, exercise often and make relaxation a daily priority. Balance is the key.

PISCES (Feb 19 - Mar 20) This week the Sun, Mercury and Jupiter stimulate your self-expression zone, so channel your energy into a personal project or a creative venture. Draw inspiration from singer-songwriter (and birthday great) Carly Simon: “There’s always a creative side to me, even when it’s quiet musically. Like painting, decorating or planting a garden.” But be extra careful on Thursday and Friday, when the Sun/Neptune square could scramble your bulldust detector.

Kinship, Identity and Place Take Centre Stage at Northern Rivers Community Gallery This July

By Jeff Gibbs

The Northern Rivers Community Gallery (NRCG) in Ballina is set to showcase a compelling collection of contemporary artworks this July, with four new exhibitions exploring themes of kinship, identity, connection to Country, landscape and the influence of popular culture. Bringing together emerging and established regional artists, the exhibitions highlight the depth and diversity of creative talent across the Northern Rivers and beyond.

As a key cultural initiative of Ballina Shire Council, NRCG continues its commitment to supporting contemporary artistic practice and fostering opportunities for regional artists to present thought-provoking work to local audiences. The latest exhibition program invites visitors to engage with stories of belonging, memory, personal history and cultural connection through a diverse range of artistic approaches.

One of the featured exhibitions, Origin Myths by artist Swerve, presents a reflective exploration of adoption and identity. Through a series of vibrant and imaginative paintings, the exhibition challenges

traditional assumptions surrounding biological heritage and selfhood.

Rather than viewing identity as something fixed by birth, the works propose a more fluid understanding of personal origins, shaped by relationships, lived experiences and environmental influences.

Drawing on contemporary philosophical ideas, the exhibition offers a thoughtful meditation on the many ways people come to understand themselves and their place in the world. In Gradually and then suddenly, artist Rebecca Lavery presents a body of paintings examining the role and condition

of images within modern society. The exhibition draws upon imagery sourced from popular culture, news media, digital platforms and personal archives. Lavery investigates how images evolve through circulation, context and the passage of time, prompting viewers to consider the ways visual information shapes contemporary experience. The exhibition also marks an important milestone for the artist, who was awarded the 2025 Southern Cross University Graduate Award.

Amelia Reid’s exhibition, Love letters, offers a deeply personal and

responsive engagement with place.

Inspired by walks on MoorungMoobah Bundjalung Country, Reid’s paintings celebrate the landscape as a living, dynamic presence.

The works challenge historical traditions of landscape painting that often portrayed occupied lands as empty or untouched. Instead, Reid reimagines the environment as vibrant and conscious, rich with interconnected life and stories. Through expressive and colourful compositions, the exhibition becomes both a tribute to Country and a reconsideration of how landscapes are represented in art.

The fourth exhibition, Nanang Wabang, brings together the work of Aunty Sonya Breckenridge and her niece Maurita Moran. Translating to “big sister and little sister,” the exhibition explores familial relationships, cultural knowledge and connections to Nyangbal Country. Developed through a creative mentorship between the two artists, the exhibition highlights the importance of intergenerational learning and the enduring bonds between Kin and Country. All four exhibitions officially open on Thursday, June 25, and will remain on display until Sunday, August 16. An exhibition launch event will be held at the gallery from 5.30pm to 7.30pm on opening night, offering the community an opportunity to meet artists and celebrate the new program. Located at 44 Cherry Street, Ballina, the Northern Rivers Community Gallery is open Wednesday to Friday from 9am to 3pm and weekends from 9.30am to 1pm. The exhibitions are expected to attract art lovers, collectors and visitors interested in contemporary regional art, Indigenous storytelling and creative interpretations of identity and place.

Victoria Leads Australia’s Townhouse Boom With Planning Reform Success

By Jeff Gibbs

Victoria has emerged as Australia’s townhouse capital after a series of planning reforms dramatically accelerated the construction of medium-density housing, offering a potential blueprint for addressing the nation’s housing shortage.

As affordability pressures continue to push home ownership beyond the reach of many Australians, particularly younger buyers, Victorian planning changes have helped unlock thousands of new townhouse developments by simplifying approval processes and reducing regulatory barriers.

The reforms were introduced as part of a broader effort to tackle the state's housing crisis and increase the supply of homes in established suburbs. Rather than

focusing solely on highrise apartment towers or sprawling greenfield developments, the Victorian Government has concentrated on encouraging what planners often call the “missing middle” – townhouses, duplexes and low-rise developments that sit between detached homes and apartment blocks.

The strategy appears to be gaining traction.

Townhouses have become one of the fastest-growing housing segments in Victoria, providing a more affordable alternative to traditional standalone homes while still offering many of the features buyers desire, including private outdoor space, multiple bedrooms and off-street parking.

A key factor behind the boom has been the streamlining of planning approvals. Reforms have significantly

reduced waiting times for developments that meet established design standards, allowing projects to move from concept to construction far more quickly than under previous systems.

Industry groups have welcomed the changes, arguing that lengthy approval processes have historically added substantial costs and delays to housing projects. By simplifying planning pathways, developers are able to bring more homes to market faster and at lower cost.

The success of Victoria’s approach is attracting attention from other states grappling with severe housing shortages and affordability challenges.

Across Australia, housing demand continues to outstrip supply as population growth, migration and changing household demographics

place increasing pressure on the market. At the same time, construction costs, labour shortages and planning delays have constrained the delivery of new housing.

Many housing experts argue that medium-density developments such as townhouses represent one of the most practical solutions to increasing housing supply in established suburbs without dramatically changing neighbourhood character.

Townhouses generally require less land than detached houses while offering more living space than many apartments. They can also be delivered more quickly and at lower cost than larger apartment

developments, making them attractive to both developers and buyers.

For first-home buyers, townhouses often provide an important entry point into the property market.

In many metropolitan areas, they are significantly cheaper than detached homes in the same suburb while still offering family-friendly living arrangements.

The Victorian reforms are also helping to increase housing diversity. As household sizes continue to shrink and demographic trends evolve, demand is growing for housing options that cater to singles, couples, downsizers and smaller families.

While challenges remain,

including infrastructure requirements and community concerns about increased density, Victoria’s experience suggests that relatively simple planning changes can have a significant impact on housing supply.

With governments across the country under pressure to deliver more homes, the success of Victoria’s townhouse boom is likely to influence future housing policy debates nationwide.

As Australia continues searching for solutions to its housing affordability crisis, the rise of townhouses may prove to be one of the most important trends shaping the next generation of housing development.

Capital City Renters Still Under Pressure Despite Vacancy Rate Rise

By Jeff Gibbs

Australian renters may be seeing the first signs of relief, but new data shows the nation’s housing crisis remains firmly entrenched, particularly across the

capital cities where rental availability remains dramatically below prepandemic levels.

According to the latest PropTrack figures, the national rental vacancy rate rose to 1.37 per cent in May 2026, the highest

level recorded since January 2025. While this suggests a slight easing in conditions, experts warn the increase is coming from an exceptionally low base and is far from enough to restore balance to the market.

The data reveals rental

availability across Australia’s capital cities remains 42 per cent lower than it was five years ago, highlighting the severity of the housing shortage and the ongoing challenges facing tenants searching for affordable accommodation. Darwin remains Australia’s tightest rental market, with a vacancy rate of just 0.77 per cent, followed closely by Hobart at 0.85 per cent. Brisbane sits at 1.01 per cent, Perth at 1.04 per cent and Adelaide at 1.16 per cent. Sydney’s vacancy rate increased to 1.37 per cent, while Melbourne and Canberra recorded the highest capital city vacancy rates at 1.63 per cent and 1.67 per cent respectively.

PropTrack senior economist Luc Redman said while some cities may experience a modest reduction in rental pressures, conditions remain extremely challenging for many Australians.

He noted that cities such as Melbourne and Canberra may see rental growth slow as vacancy rates improve, but renters in Darwin, Hobart and other tightly constrained markets are likely to continue facing rising rents due to limited supply.

The shortage of available housing remains the central issue. Industry experts point to years of underinvestment in housing construction, population growth and limited rental stock as major contributors to the ongoing crisis.

National Shelter chief executive Jackson Hills described the latest figures as a “tentative improvement” rather than a genuine turning point. Housing analysts generally consider vacancy rates between two and three per cent necessary for a balanced rental market, well above current levels in every Australian capital city.

Adding further pressure are rising costs for property investors, including interest rates, insurance premiums, maintenance expenses and regulatory compliance requirements. Some landlords are increasing rents to offset these costs, while others are selling investment properties altogether, reducing rental supply even further.

While regional Australia has shown signs of improvement, with vacancy rates gradually increasing and rental growth slowing, experts say meaningful relief for city renters will depend on significantly boosting housing supply and accelerating the delivery of social and affordable housing.

For now, despite a small increase in available properties, competition for rental homes remains fierce and affordability pressures continue to weigh heavily on households across the country.

Federal PFAS Lawsuit Welcomed Amid Clean-Up Warning

By Jeff Gibbs

A landmark Federal Government lawsuit against chemicals manufacturer 3M over PFAS contamination has been welcomed as a major step toward accountability, but fresh warnings have emerged that states and communities must not be left carrying the enormous burden of environmental clean-up.

The Commonwealth has launched legal action against 3M seeking more than $2 billion over contamination linked to PFAS-containing firefighting foam used at Defence sites across Australia.

The action centres on contamination associated with 28 Defence bases and represents one of the nation’s most significant environmental legal cases. PFAS, commonly referred to as “forever chemicals”, are a group of manufactured substances known for their resistance to heat, oil and water.

They were widely used for decades in firefighting foam and industrial products but have become the focus of growing global concern due to their persistence in soil and waterways.

Environmental and health concerns surrounding PFAS have prompted

tighter regulation internationally and increasing scrutiny within Australia.

Greens MLC and Chair of the NSW Parliamentary Inquiry into PFAS contamination, Cate Faehrmann, said the legal action was an important development after years of frustration for affected communities.

Ms Faehrmann said many residents exposed to contamination had long felt abandoned while responsibility shifted

between governments and corporations.

She welcomed the Commonwealth’s move to pursue recovery of clean-up and remediation costs.

However, she warned the issue extends well beyond Defence land.

The NSW parliamentary inquiry into PFAS contamination in waterways and drinking water found evidence contamination sources exist across the state, including from firefighting foam used at non-Defence locations.

The inquiry heard contamination had affected waterways, ecosystems and drinking water supplies in multiple areas.

Ms Faehrmann pointed to contamination concerns in the Blue Mountains as an example of how PFAS impacts can arise outside Defence-controlled sites. She said the findings highlighted the need for a statewide response rather than a narrow focus on Defence facilities alone.

Earlier this year, Ms Faehrmann travelled to the

United States to examine international responses to PFAS contamination, including projects linked to compensation agreements involving 3M.

She said large-scale environmental remediation programs underway in parts of America demonstrated both the scale of the challenge and the importance of securing dedicated funding.

PFAS contamination remains notoriously difficult and expensive to remove once it enters water

systems and the broader environment.

Experts say remediation can involve complex treatment systems, longterm monitoring and substantial infrastructure investment.

The legal case against 3M is therefore being closely watched by environmental groups and governments alike.

For regional communities across New South Wales, including the Northern Rivers where water security and environmental protection remain highly valued, the debate reinforces broader concerns about contamination risks and long-term environmental management.

Ms Faehrmann said any compensation secured through the lawsuit should help support state-based clean-up efforts and reduce the financial burden on taxpayers.

She also argued that the most effective long-term solution remains preventing PFAS contamination at its source and accelerating the phase-out of such chemicals.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the case may shape not only who pays for past contamination but also how Australia approaches environmental responsibility into the future.

CPA Australia Warns Major Tax Reform Bill Is Being Rushed Through Parliament

By Jeff Gibbs

Australia’s largest accounting body has raised serious concerns about the Federal Government’s proposed tax reforms, warning that the most significant overhaul of the tax system in a generation is being pushed through Parliament without adequate consultation or scrutiny.

CPA Australia has called for the Treasury Laws Amendment (Tax Reform No. 1) Bill 2026 to be substantially revised or delayed, arguing that the legislation contains significant flaws that could impose substantial costs on taxpayers while creating uncertainty for businesses and investors.

CPA Australia Tax

Lead Jenny Wong said the organisation supports sensible tax reform but believes legislation of this scale requires far greater consultation and technical review before becoming law.

According to CPA Australia, stakeholders were given only 11 days to review and respond to the proposed legislation, while the Senate Economics Legislation Committee has just 24 days to report on the Bill.

Ms Wong said such a compressed timeframe is inadequate for reforms that could affect millions of Australians and fundamentally alter key areas of the tax system.

“This is not a case of resistance to reform – it is a case of reform that could be done better,” she said.

CPA Australia’s submission to the Senate Committee estimates the reforms could generate annual compliance costs of between $295 million and $542 million. In addition, one-off transitional costs are expected to range between $675 million and $825 million, largely due to requirements for taxpayers to establish market values for capital gains tax assets before the proposed changes take effect.

The accounting body argues these costs will not fall primarily on wealthy investors, as intended by the reforms, but will instead impact millions of ordinary Australians who own investments, property or small businesses.

One of CPA Australia’s major concerns centres

on proposed changes to Capital Gains Tax (CGT).

Under the reforms, the current 50 per cent CGT discount would be replaced with a system based on inflation indexation.

CPA Australia warns this could create unintended consequences for many small business owners and start-up founders who originally acquired business assets at very low or nominal values.

Examples cited include tradespeople who incorporated businesses for a nominal amount, professionals purchasing into partnerships and technology entrepreneurs who established companies with minimal initial investment.

The organisation argues these business owners could face significantly

larger tax bills under the proposed system despite not being the intended targets of the reforms.

To address the issue, CPA Australia has proposed retaining the existing 50 per cent CGT discount for active business assets where annual turnover does not exceed $20 million.

The accounting body has also raised concerns about the Bill’s reliance on ministerial instruments that have not yet been released. Several critical aspects of the legislation, including definitions, eligibility criteria and tax treatment provisions, will be determined through future instruments that Parliament has not yet seen.

CPA Australia argues lawmakers are effectively

being asked to approve major reforms without access to key policy details.

The organisation is calling for further consultation, publication of detailed compliance cost estimates, additional analysis of the reforms’ economic impact and a comprehensive independent review no later than 2029.

While supporting the goal of tax reform, CPA Australia maintains the current Bill requires further work to ensure it achieves its objectives without creating unnecessary costs, uncertainty or unintended consequences for Australian taxpayers and small businesses.

LIMOUSIN CROSS STEERS TOP BEAUDESERT MARKET AT $2,370

Strong buyer confidence fuelled by recent rainfall helped drive a much dearer market across all categories at the latest Beaudesert Store Sale, according to agents Bartholomew and Co. An outstanding yarding of heavy steers attracted strong competition, with buyers responding positively to improved seasonal conditions and the prospect of further rain.

Leading the steer section were two-year-old Limousin cross steers from Ben Harmer of Kingsholme, which sold for a sale-topping $2,370. Yawarra Pty Ltd of Nindooinbah achieved $2,200 for 20-month-old Santa steers, while Dale Oppermann of Kerry sold 18-month-old Santa steers for $2,000. Charolais cross steers from MRJ Properties, Palen Creek, made $1,950, while

Paul and Carroll Bambling of Natural Bridge received $1,810 for their 18-month-old Droughtmaster cross steers. Other notable steer results included Droughtmaster steers from Michael and Chloe White of Palen Creek selling for $1,560, Charolais cross steers from Wayne Gehrke of Grandchester making $1,500, and Braford weaner steers from Ron GonChee of Tamborine reaching

$1,390. Charolais cross weaner steers from Wade and Kirsty Carter of Frenches Creek sold for $1,370, while Mandalong weaner steers from Dusty Bailey of Mt Barney made $1,120. In the female section, 12-month-old Charolais cross heifers from MRJ Properties topped the heifer market at $1,290. Droughtmaster weaner heifers from Marula Pastoral Company Pty Ltd,

Dugandan, sold for $850, while Braford and Charbray weaner heifers from Ron Gon-Chee and Wayne Gehrke achieved $840 and $820 respectively.

Cow prices were equally strong, with Brahman cross cows from The Maudsley Family of Wolfdene selling for $2,000. Senepol cross cows from Les Draheim of Roadvale made $1,900, while Droughtmaster cross cows

from Logan River Lucerne, Beaudesert, sold for $1,700. Charolais cross cows and calves offered by Jeff Johnson and Yolande Templeton realised $1,950. A Santa bull sold by Logan River Lucerne topped the bull section at $3,000. The next Beaudesert Store Sale will be held on Saturday, 4 July, commencing at 9.30am. By The Northern Rivers Rural News Desk

NRLX Prime Cattle Market Remains Firm Despite Reduced Numbers June 17

Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange – Prime Cattle Sale Report

The Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange prime cattle sale delivered a generally firm market this week, with processors continuing to compete strongly for quality stock despite a reduction in overall yarding numbers.

A total of 2,202 head were sold through 797 lots, generating more than $2.88 million in turnover. The sale

averaged 402.9 cents per kilogram across all categories, with strong demand evident for well-finished steers, bullocks and quality heifers. Buyers remained selective but were prepared to pay premiums for cattle displaying weight, condition and processing suitability. Steers were again the standout category, averaging an impressive 496.0 cents per kilogram and reaching a top price of 622.2 cents per kilogram. The 739 head sold

generated more than $911,800 in turnover and averaged $1,233.83 per head.

Heifers also attracted solid competition, averaging 411.7 cents per kilogram and topping at 514.2 cents per kilogram. A total of 806 head sold, returning an average value of $1,042.62 per head and contributing more than $840,000 to overall sale turnover.

Bullocks continued to command strong prices, averaging 429.6 cents per

kilogram and reaching a top of 448.2 cents per kilogram. The category returned an average of $2,797.40 per head, with top-selling animals reaching $3,279.49.

The cow market remained steady, with 585 head sold. Cows averaged 338.3 cents per kilogram and topped at 397.2 cents per kilogram. Returns ranged from $172.26 to $2,740.68, averaging $1,651.35 per head and generating more than $966,000 in turnover.

Bulls averaged 363.9 cents per kilogram and reached 397.2 cents per kilogram. The category returned an average value of $2,613.46 per head, with top bulls making $3,961.71.

Vealer bulls averaged 382.8 cents per kilogram and topped at 454.2 cents per kilogram, returning up to $1,460.95 per head.

Overall, buyer confidence remains solid across the Northern Rivers region, with processors continuing to

underpin the market. Strong prices for finished cattle and quality feeder lines indicate ongoing demand from both domestic and interstate sectors as winter progresses. The sale generated total turnover of $2.89 million, highlighting the continuing strength of the region’s livestock industry and the importance of NRLX as a key marketing centre for Northern Rivers producers.

By

The Northern Rivers Rural News Desk

Steers Lead Strong Northern Rivers Store Cattle Market June 19

A total of 3,855 head were yarded at the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange Store

Cattle Sale on 19 June, with strong demand pushing average prices higher across most categories. Steers dominated the offering and attracted the strongest competition, accounting for more than half of all cattle

LIVESTOCK MARKETS

WARWICK & DISTRICT

– WEEK ENDING JUNE 19, 2026

Competition from processors, restockers and interstate buyers continued to underpin a stronger market at Warwick this week, with increases recorded in both yarding numbers and livestock values across cattle, sheep and lamb categories.

A total of 870 cattle were presented, with quality stock available across all classes. Agents reported strong demand throughout the sale as local restockers competed directly against processors, while southern buyers remained active in the market seeking replacement stock following improving seasonal conditions in southern grazing regions.

The increased competition pushed most categories higher, with feeder and yearling cattle attracting particularly strong interest.

Bulls averaged 403.8c/ kg and reached a top of

sold. Steers made up 2,145 head across 374 lots, averaging an impressive 545 cents per kilogram and reaching a top price of 646 cents/kg. Values ranged from $160 to a sale-topping $2,630 per head, with the category averaging $1,356.29. The steer section generated more than $2.9

468.2c/kg, returning between $1,592.36 and $4,081.92 per head.

Cows averaged 325.8c/ kg and topped at 425.2c/kg, making from $1,681.30 to $2,870.10.

Feeder heifers averaged 387.6c/kg and topped at 450c/kg, while feeder steers averaged an impressive 479.9c/kg and reached 526.2c/kg, returning between $1,777.19 and $2,515.91.

Heifers averaged 398.6c/kg and topped at 484.2c/kg, while manufacturing steers averaged 380.1c/kg.

Heavy steers continued their strong run, averaging 450.7c/ kg and topping at 488.2c/kg, returning up to $3,152.37 per head.

Young cattle were also highly sought after. Vealer steers averaged 446c/kg and topped at 514.2c/kg, while vealer heifers averaged 390.1c/ kg. Yearling steers averaged 483.4c/kg and topped at 525c/ kg, while yearling heifers averaged 419.9c/kg. Across all categories, the

million in turnover from a total liveweight of 533,760 kilograms.

Heifers also sold to strong competition, with 1,708 head offered across 275 lots. Prices ranged from 200 cents/kg to 550 cents/kg, averaging 481.1 cents/kg. Heifer values topped at $2,270 per head and averaged $1,116.21, returning

870-head cattle yarding averaged $1,415.30 per head.

Sheep and Lamb Market Records Solid Gains

The sheep and lamb sale attracted 1,436 head, sourced from the Western Downs, Southern Downs and local Traprock districts. The offering consisted of approximately 60 per cent lambs and 40 per cent mutton.

All regular buyers were in attendance, creating strong competition that resulted in notable increases across nearly every category.

Lambs topped at $356 and averaged $266.91 per head, representing a rise of $41.

Hoggets sold to $271 and averaged $219, up $29 per head.

Ram lambs recorded one of the strongest improvements, topping at $271 and averaging $234.92, an increase of $94 per head.

Ewes topped at $255 and averaged $182.90, while wethers reached $250 and averaged $174.05. Rams sold

more than $1.9 million to vendors. The offering totalled 396,285 kilograms liveweight.

A small run of bullocks was offered, with two head sold in one lot. The bullocks averaged and topped at 378 cents/kg, returning $2,182.95 per head and generating a total return of $4,365.90.

to $190 and averaged $173. The overall sheep and lamb yarding averaged $227.02 per head, an increase of $14 compared with the previous week.

Sheep and Lamb Sale Highlights

Stephen and Fran Thompson sold Dorset lambs weighing 60kg to Eversons for $304, while 52.5kg lambs sold to McIntyre Meats for $277. Their ewes sold to restockers for $182.

Bates Pastoral Company sold Dorper lambs weighing 51.4kg to Leslie Lamb for $301.

Tony and Jodi Warboys achieved one of the sale's highest prices, selling 66.4kg Dorper lambs to Eversons for $350.

Cooper Rafton sold Dorper lambs weighing 55.3kg to Eversons for $315.

Jason Skinner sold Suffolkcross lambs weighing 50.4kg to Eversons for $289, while Dorset rams sold to Whites Trading for $154.

Kim Aisthorpe sold Dorper

Across all categories, the sale recorded an average price of 517.6 cents/kg, with cattle selling from 200 cents/ kg to a high of 646 cents/kg. The average return across the market was $1,250.35 per head, while total gross sales reached $4.82 million from more than 931 tonnes of liveweight cattle.

lambs weighing 52.7kg to Leslie Lamb for $320.

McDougall Family Trust sold Dorper lambs weighing 42.5kg to Eversons for $235, while lighter 30.4kg lambs sold to restockers for $148.

Thaba Monate sold Dorper lambs weighing 33.6kg to GR Prime for $152 and 31.5kg lambs to McIntyre Meats for $140. Their 40kg ram lambs sold to Eversons for $181, while 35kg hoggets made $180.

Alum Rock Pastoral Company sold Merino ewes to restockers for $176 and $154, while another line sold to McIntyre Meats for $60.

The Hindmarsh Family sold off-shears Merino wethers to restockers for $170.

Pig Market Dominated by Store Stock

Pig numbers increased this week, although the majority of the yarding consisted of store pigs. Limited numbers of sows, porkers and baconers were available.

Sows sold from $240 to

The figures highlight the continued strength of the Northern Rivers store cattle market, with producers benefiting from strong buyer demand and favourable seasonal conditions across much of the region.

By The Northern Rivers Rural News Desk

$286, pork pigs made between $128 and $228, baconers sold to $248, while store pigs ranged from $55 to $190. Poultry Section Also Stronger

Poultry numbers were higher than previous weeks, with buyers active across a broad range of birds.

Hens sold to $27.50, roosters reached $22.50, guinea fowl made $20, pullets sold to $45 and chickens reached $22.50. Peking bantam hens sold to $25, ducks reached $45, drakes made $32.50 and peacocks topped the poultry section at $155.

Overall, the Warwick market continues to benefit from improving seasonal conditions and strong competition among processors, restockers and interstate buyers. With demand for replacement stock remaining high and supply relatively controlled, the outlook for livestock prices remains positive heading into the second half of winter.

By The Northern Rivers Rural News Desk

Billions More for Water Buybacks? Irrigators Demand Independent Review

By Ian Rogers

The National Irrigators’ Council (NIC) has called for an independent review of the Federal Government’s additional environmental water recovery program, warning taxpayers could face a multi-billiondollar bill without clear evidence of corresponding environmental benefits.

A new NIC review has questioned the economic effectiveness of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan’s 450 gigalitre (GL) additional environmental water program, arguing the initiative has moved

significantly beyond its original budget and purpose while delivering diminishing returns.

NIC Chief Executive Officer Zara Lowien told The Northern Rivers Times the Government must reassess whether continued spending on water buybacks represents value for money.

“More than $1.1 billion has already been spent on water purchases in the program, yet 77 per cent of the water recovered to date is subject to major delivery restrictions, meaning much of it cannot be delivered through the river system as originally intended,” Ms

Lowien said.

According to the NIC, the program’s original budget of $1.575 billion has effectively been exhausted through water purchases and related commitments, with estimates suggesting a further $1.3 billion may be required to complete the program.

Ms Lowien said the Government had altered the scope, cost and assumptions underpinning the initiative without publicly reassessing whether the expected benefits still justified the growing expense.

“The Government has changed the scope, cost

and assumptions of the program, but has not gone back and asked whether the benefits still justify the price tag,” she said.

The council argues that the Murray-Darling Basin Plan has already achieved its core objective of establishing Sustainable Diversion Limits, with environmental water now accounting for approximately 72 per cent of the Basin water balance. Rather than focusing solely on purchasing additional water, the NIC believes greater environmental gains

could be achieved through investments in constraints management, habitat restoration, fish passage projects and other complementary environmental measures.

“The debate cannot remain about limits and how many more litres of water need to be purchased. It must be about what delivers the greatest environmental outcomes for every dollar invested,” Ms Lowien stressed.

The organisation is urging the Government to undertake an immediate

independent review of the 450 GL program before committing further taxpayer funds.

“At a time when Australia faces enormous fiscal pressures, every dollar matters. We cannot continue spending public money simply because it was once a political commitment. The Government must have the courage to follow the evidence, reassess priorities and invest where the environment receives the greatest benefit,” Ms Lowien said.

Farmers Seek Protection From Proposed Tax Changes

By Ian Rogers

Australian farmers are urging the Federal Government to ensure proposed capital gains tax reforms do not disadvantage family farming businesses, with the National Farmers’ Federation warning the changes could affect succession planning, investment and long-term productivity.

As the Senate Economics Legislation Committee continues its inquiry

into the Treasury Laws Amendment (Tax Reform No. 1) Bill 2026, the NFF has called for greater consideration of the unique structure of Australian farming operations.

NFF President Hamish McIntyre told The Northern Rivers Times farming businesses rely heavily on long-term planning and investment, making it essential that any changes to capital gains tax support growth, adaptation and the transfer of farms between generations.

The federation's submission to the inquiry argues that proposed reforms should not create unintended consequences for family-run enterprises, particularly during intergenerational succession when ownership is often transferred gradually over many years.

Mr McIntyre told The Northern Rivers Times most farm businesses are asset-rich but operate on long investment cycles, with families continually

reinvesting profits back into their properties and enterprises.

A key concern raised by the NFF is the eligibility criteria surrounding small business capital gains tax concessions. The organisation argues current thresholds, unchanged since 2007, no longer reflect the scale and value of many modern agricultural operations.

Mr McIntyre told The Northern Rivers Times many productive family farms now exceed

existing thresholds despite sharing many of the characteristics of smaller businesses, including family ownership, significant debt levels and ongoing reinvestment into operations.

The NFF warned uncertainty surrounding the proposed reforms could delay succession planning and discourage investment at a time when farmers are already dealing with rising costs and economic pressures.

While welcoming

continued consultation with the Government, the federation said agriculture must remain part of the national conversation on tax reform.

Mr McIntyre told The Northern Rivers Times farmers need certainty to plan for the future, invest with confidence and ensure family farming businesses can continue to operate successfully for generations to come.

CGT Tax Change Delivers Major Win for Australian Farmers

By Ian Rogers

Australian farmers are set to benefit from a significant tax change after the Federal Government announced it will expand access to a key Capital Gains Tax (CGT) concession, a move welcomed by the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) as a major victory for the agricultural sector.

The change will increase the turnover threshold for the small business 50 per cent active asset CGT concession from $2 million to $10 million, making the measure accessible to an estimated 99 per cent of Australian farm businesses.

NFF President Hamish McIntyre said the reform would provide important financial benefits and greater certainty for farming families making long-term business decisions.

“This is a meaningful result for farmers.

It provides greater confidence when making long-term decisions about their business and their future,” Mr McIntyre said.

“Farming is capitalintensive and often spans generations. These changes recognise that reality and ensure more farming families can access the support they need when transitioning assets, investing in productivity or planning for succession.”

The small business 50 per cent active asset reduction is the most commonly used of the four CGT concessions available to eligible businesses. It allows qualifying businesses to reduce the taxable capital gain on active business assets by half, in addition to other available CGT discounts. Under the revised threshold, approximately 8,700 additional farm businesses are expected to become eligible for the concession, significantly expanding access across

the agricultural sector.

The NFF said the decision followed extensive consultation and advocacy aimed at ensuring Australia’s tax framework better reflects the realities of modern farming operations, many of which have grown substantially in scale while remaining family-owned enterprises.

Mr McIntyre described the announcement as an example of effective collaboration between industry and government.

“This is a clear example of what can be achieved when farmers speak with one voice, and when government listens and works collaboratively with industry,” he said.

“The NFF has worked closely with the Government and put forward a practical case for change based on how modern farm businesses actually operate. The Government has listened to those concerns and acted,

and that will make a real difference on the ground.”

The reform is expected to assist farmers with succession planning, business restructuring and future investment decisions by reducing potential tax liabilities when active farm assets are transferred or sold.

Mr McIntyre said while further work may still be needed on broader tax reforms affecting agriculture, the expansion of the concession represented a significant step forward for the industry.

“The fact this measure will be progressed through current legislation is critical. It gives farmers certainty now and allows them to plan ahead with confidence,” he said.

The NFF said it would continue working with government on future tax policy reforms aimed at supporting a competitive, productive and resilient agricultural sector.

Growers Urged To Act As Varroa Mite Reshapes Pollination Future

By Ian Rogers

Australian horticulture producers are being urged to rethink how they secure pollination services as the spread of the Varroa mite continues to reshape the nation’s beekeeping and food production sectors.

The call follows recent national attention on the issue through ABC’s Landline program, which highlighted the growing impact of Varroa destructor on honeybee populations and the implications for crop pollination.

According to the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) Horticulture Council and the Australian Honey Bee Industry Council (AHBIC), growers can no longer assume pollination will be freely provided by healthy feral bee populations.

Varroa mite is now established across New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria, South Australia and the Australian Capital Territory, with Western Australia and Tasmania remaining free of the pest.

The national Transition to Management program concluded in February

2026, confirming the industry’s shift from eradication efforts to longterm management of the pest.

NFF Horticulture Council Executive Officer Richard Shannon said pollination should now be regarded as a critical farm input rather than a service

naturally provided by the environment.

He warned that feral honeybee populations, which have traditionally contributed significantly to crop pollination at no direct cost to growers, are declining as Varroa spreads. As a result, growers who actively

plan, budget and contract for pollination services are likely to be better positioned than those who leave arrangements until the last minute.

AHBIC Chief Executive Officer Danny Le Feuvre said the issue extends beyond beekeeping and represents a broader challenge for Australian food production and supply chain resilience.

He noted that beekeepers are now facing ongoing hive management expenses, hive losses and the emergence of chemical resistance issues, increasing the cost and complexity of maintaining healthy pollination services.

Industry leaders are encouraging growers to understand the pollination requirements of their crops, establish

relationships with reliable pollination providers and factor rising hive costs into production budgets. Early engagement with beekeepers, formal pollination agreements and on-farm practices that support hive health are expected to become increasingly important.

To assist producers, the NFF Horticulture Council and AHBIC will host a national webinar on managing pollination in a Varroa-endemic Australia. The session will cover pollination agreements, practical management strategies and the implications of the Transition to Management program for growers. The webinar is scheduled for Wednesday, 5 August, from 12pm to 1.30pm AEST.

Gardening Tips & Ideas

Growing Better Lemons, Oranges and Limes

The Complete Guide to Healthier Citrus Trees

By Jeff Gibbs

Few backyard plants reward gardeners quite like citrus trees. Whether it’s a juicy Valencia orange, a tangy Tahitian lime or a productive Eureka lemon, citrus thrives in the Northern Rivers climate when given the right care. With warm summers, mild winters and reliable rainfall, local gardeners have ideal conditions to grow healthy trees loaded with fruit almost year-round.

Choosing the Right Position

Citrus trees perform best in a sunny location receiving at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. Good drainage is essential, as citrus roots dislike wet feet.

In heavy clay soils common across some Northern Rivers areas, improve drainage by incorporating compost and gypsum or plant trees on a raised mound.

Protection from strong westerly winds will also help prevent fruit drop and reduce stress on young trees.

Feeding for Better Fruit Production

One of the biggest reasons citrus trees fail to produce quality fruit is underfeeding. Citrus are hungry plants and

require regular fertilising throughout the year. Apply a quality citrus fertiliser in:

• Late winter

• Late spring

• Mid-summer

• Early autumn Look for fertilisers containing nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and essential trace elements such as magnesium, zinc and iron.

Supplementing with well-rotted compost and a layer of organic mulch helps retain moisture and improve soil health. Keep mulch away from the trunk to prevent collar rot. Yellow leaves often indicate nutrient deficiencies, particularly magnesium or iron. Regular feeding usually corrects these problems.

Watering Matters

While established citrus trees are reasonably drought tolerant, consistent watering during flowering and fruit development dramatically improves crop size and fruit quality.

Deep watering once or twice a week is far better than frequent shallow watering. During prolonged dry periods, citrus may drop fruit to conserve energy.

Mulching around the root

zone helps maintain soil moisture and reduces weed competition.

Pruning for Health and Productivity

Unlike many fruit trees, citrus require relatively little pruning.

Remove:

• Dead or diseased branches

• Crossing or rubbing limbs

• Growth below the graft union

• Water shoots growing vertically through the canopy

The goal is to create an open, balanced structure that allows sunlight and air circulation throughout the tree.

The best time to prune is after harvesting or during late winter before spring growth begins.

Common Citrus Pests

Northern Rivers gardeners commonly encounter several citrus pests.

Citrus Leaf Miner

Young leaves develop silvery tunnels and distorted growth. Horticultural oils applied during new growth periods can help reduce damage.

Aphids

These sap-sucking insects attack soft new growth. Natural predators such as

ladybirds often provide effective control.

Scale Insects

Scale appears as small bumps on stems and leaves. Treat with horticultural oil sprays during cooler parts of the day.

Fruit Fly

A major pest throughout northern NSW. Use fruit fly traps, remove fallen fruit promptly and consider exclusion netting during peak seasons.

Preventing Disease

Good airflow and proper hygiene are the best defences against fungal

diseases.

Regularly remove fallen fruit and leaves, avoid overwatering and ensure trees are not overcrowded. Healthy, well-fed trees are naturally more resistant to most diseases.

Boosting Fruit Numbers

If your tree flowers heavily but produces little fruit, several factors may be responsible:

• Insufficient fertiliser

• Inconsistent watering

• Excessive pruning

• Lack of sunlight

• Heavy fruit fly pressure

Applying a balanced citrus

A GARDEN EXPERIENCE

fertiliser before flowering and maintaining steady moisture levels during fruit set can significantly increase yields.

The Reward

A healthy citrus tree can provide decades of fruit production with relatively little maintenance. With regular feeding, sensible pruning, pest monitoring and adequate water, Northern Rivers gardeners can enjoy baskets of fresh lemons, oranges and limes throughout the year while adding beauty, fragrance and value to their gardens.

Notice

Casino Boolangle Local Aboriginal Land Council

General Members Meeting Notice

Notice is hereby given of a General Members Meeting of Casino Boolangle LALC:

Date: 30th June 2026

Venue: Casino Community Centre, Walker Street Casino Time: 5.30pm

Please contact Casino Boolangle LALC during business hours if you require further information on 0468 993 517

Authorised: Gloria Torrens, Chairperson.

ALSTONVILLE

CRAWFORD HOUSE MUSEUM

Alstonville Plateau Historical Society is holding the ever-popular annual AIRING OF THE QUILTS at Crawford House Museum on Thursday 2nd, Friday 3rd Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th July. This is a not-to-bemissed event that showcases the beautiful and intricate quilts created by our local quilters. You can admire these stunning quilts and vote for your favourite. Shiralee Stitches Quilt Shop and Richmond Valley Woodcrafters will be displaying their items for sale and there will be demonstrations of hand and machine quilting. Admission is $10.00, which includes morning or afternoon tea (children under 12 free). Crawford House Museum is at 10 Wardell Road Alstonville and will be open 9.00am-4.00pm on Thursday 2nd, Friday 3rd, Saturday 4th and 9.00am-2.00pm on Sunday 5th July. (Turning of the Quilts will take place at 11.30am and 1.30pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday and 11.30am on Sunday.)

QUILTERS ALSTONVILLE

We are called Plateau Quilters Alstonville we meet the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the Month at the RSL Hall Alstonville from 1pm until 4pm New members would be most welcome. Bonner 66298267

ALSTONVILLE PROBUS CLUB

Alstonville Probus Club meets on the last Thursday of each month at Plateau Sports Club at 10.00 am. This commences with a cupper and chat, with the formal meeting commencing at 10.30 which includes an interesting guest speaker. All visitors are welcome.

ALSTONVILLE QUOTA CLUB

A local women’s service club that meets on the 1st Tuesday of the month at the Plateau Sports Club. Quota is committed to supporting and improving the physical and mental wellbeing of the disadvantaged in our community through local projects.

EMBROIDERERS GROUP

Meetings are 9.30am1.30pm, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays and 2nd Saturday of each month. Our venue is the Resource Centre at the rear of Crawford House Museum, Alstonville. We welcome embroiderers of all ability levels to meet, share and learn.

THE RETURNED AND SERVICES

LEAGUE OF AUSTRALIA NSW Branch

ALSTONVILLE SUBBRANCH

Alstonville RSL sub-Branch will now hold their monthly meetings on the second Wednesday of the month at 11am at the RSL Hall, 13 Bugden Ave (next door to the Alstonville Medical Centre). All ex-Service persons are welcome to attend, and we have a convivial morning tea on completion of the meeting. Alston suppliers and ranch have a ‘Lower Deck Luncheon’ at 1200 each Friday, everyone is welcome, we sit out the back of the Hall, order lunch from local suppliers, and have great conversations with good mates. There is always plenty of support & advice on any issue!

BALLINA

BALLINA COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB

LIVE COUNTRY MUSIC DAYS of the Ballina Country Music Club happen on the first Sunday of every month except January. The July Live Music Day, however, is on the second Sunday, 12 July at Ballina RSL Club, Grant Street, Ballina, starting at 10.00 am. The day is also the Club’s Benefit Day. “The Classics”, one of our popular regular bands, will be playing. Tricia Grey and Brian Elliott are the feature Showcase Artists. There are many regular and some visiting Walk Up Artists. The experienced line dancers demonstrate their skills and others take to the floor dancing however they want! There are great raffle and lucky door prizes, as well as Club members’ and Walk Up Artists’ draws. Come along and enjoy the company and music.

DEMENTIA CAFÉ

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

SUPPORT GROUP FOR PEOPLE LIVING WITH A DEMENTIA AND THEIR CARERS.

The group, supported by the Dementia Inclusive Ballina Alliance, meets weekly on Wednesdays at the Ballina Aero Club, Lightwing Lane, Ballina (near the airport) from 10:30-12:30pm. The program usually involves gentle exercise then choir singing followed by morning tea an activity that varies from week to week. If cooking is the activity, this happens first so that the goodies can be shared at morning tea. Activities include important occasions such as Australia Day, Easter, ANZAC Day, Melbourne Cup, and drumming, craft, memory museum, trivia, musical performances to name a few. The cost is $5 per week. Susan 0405 229 200.

NORTHERN RIVERS YOUNGER ONSET

DEMENTIA CARERS SUPPORT GROUP

The group supports carers of people living with dementia who were diagnosed with a dementia before they turned 65. The group meets on the first Friday of each month at Summerland House Farm from 10-12 noon for a cuppa and chat, the opportunity to share ideas or listen to guest speakers talk about relevant issues. All carers of people with younger onset dementia are welcome to attend. Sabrina 0429 455 720.

Nine Hole Ladies Golf at Ballina

The Nine Hole Ladies Golf Group plays at Ballina Golf Club every Tuesday and Thursday, from 12pm offering an enjoyable

and time-efficient way to play a golf competition. The group combines golf with social interaction, making it ideal for busy people who do not have time for a full 18hole round. Beginners and casual golfers are welcome, with guidance provided for new players in a relaxed and supportive environment. For further information, please contact Ballina Golf Club. New members are always welcome.

BALLINA LADIES PROBUS CLUB

The Ballina Ladies Probus Club meets on the first Wednesday of each month at 10:30am at the Ballina RSL Club. We are always pleased to welcome new faces and currently have vacancies for ladies wishing to join us. Visitors are warmly invited to attend our meetings, outings and social events, all centred around fun, fellowship and friendship. At our July meeting, we will welcome Graeme McGregor as our Guest Speaker. Graeme will speak about his time working with the South Australia National Parks and Wildlife Service on Kangaroo Island. Our July social activity will be a morning tea (at own cost) at the Shelly Beach Café, Ballina on Wednesday 15 July at 10:30am — a wonderful opportunity to enjoy good food, great company and conversation. If you would like to learn more about our club or upcoming activities, please contact our President, Jeanette, on 0407 417 470. We would love to hear from you and warmly welcome you along.

CWA BALLINA

Craft every Wednesday from 9.00am to 12.00 noon in the CWA rooms, next to RSL. Monthly meeting every 3rd Monday of the month from 9. 00am.Wanting to learn to knit, crochet or sew? Come and join us. Morning tea $3. All are welcome. Contact Gai Mason, Handicraft officer on 0433129339. President Barbara Driscoll 0428116668

BALLINA PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB

meets on the first Thursday of the month at Northlakes Community Centre, 1 Mulloway Place, Ballina from 6pm to 9pm.We are currently looking for new members and visitors are always welcome. We are a group of enthusiastic photographers who live in and around Ballina. Members share a common interest in photography and have monthly outings to take photos and share images at meetings. Please contact our President Lyn on 0412 758 697

BALLINA MEALS ON WHEELS

Knitting and Crochet for Charity Group run by Ballina Meals on Wheels. Group held Monday mornings in Ballina and open to people who are 65years and older. $5 includes morning tea. Call Kristen on Ph: 0419 679719 for more information.

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A NEW HOBBY??? COME AND JOIN THE HEADLINERS CHORUS We are an allfemale group of all ages who love to sing “Acappella” in 4-part Barber shop harmony. We are well known in the Northern Rivers community and would love you to join us. Come along to a rehearsal on Monday nights from 7pm and for more information see our website or enquire to Tracey Ezzy on 0438 446 809

BALLINA ARTS & CRAFTS CENTRE INC. (BACCI)

We are a diverse group of Artists and Crafters that participate in wonderful group exhibitions. Over 50 members are from all over the Northern Rivers. Meetings are usually on the 1st Tuesday of every month at the Cherry Street Sports Club. Social gathering at 5, for a 5.30 start. Ph: Rosie 0438401716

BALLINA BRIDGE CLUB

Social play every Monday 9am to 11:30am.”. Sessions for all levels of players on Mon, Wed, Sat from 1pm to about 5pm. Be seated at 12:45. Restricted session (under 300 Masterpoints) Thu 1pm – about 5pm. Friday mornings, Help with Play on Fri am times 9am-11:30. Open to anyone who would like

some help with their game from teachers on duty. 9am to about 11:15pm Sessions are $5 for members and $7 for visitors at 13 North Ck Rd, Ballina Call Judy Forsyth: 0407664337.

BALLINA COASTAL QUILTERS

We meet at the North Lakes Community Hall in Whiting Way, Ballina on a Wednesday twice a month from 9 am to 2 pm.

The group gives opportunities for friendship, support, and socialisation. and to celebrate our creative achievements in the area of quilting and related stitchery. We encourage our members to seek and share knowledge of their skills. New members would be most welcome. The cost is $5 per session Georgia 66876834

BALLINA EVENING VIEW CLUB

Meets on the second Wednesday of each month at the Ballina RSL Club at 6.30 for dinner at 7pm-Guests are always welcome. Our members support the education of disadvantaged children in Australia by fundraising activities and social events in our local community for The Smith Family by sponsoring 5 Learning for Life students. Ph: Julie Stephan 0434988770.

BALLINA FREE COMMUNITY HOT BRUNCH

Ballina Free Community Hot Brunch, First Saturday of each month.

Everyone is invited to come and enjoy a hot brunch of sausages, rissoles bacon & eggs, cereal, tea and coffee. Or just come for a chat. Frozen take away meals available. Held at the Ballina Presbyterian Hall Corner of Cherry & Crane St Ballina 10AM TO 12PM Carol: 0438812235

BALLINA LIGHTHOUSE RSL DAY CLUB

A Day Club for elderly and isolated people in our community, held every Thursday at the Richmond Room Ballina. Enjoy morning tea and a mental stimulation exercise like Tai Chi, followed by lunch and afternoon musical entertainment. Every Thursday 10am to 2pm cost $10 Richmond Room, Regatta Avenue Ballina RSVP Lorraine Fox 66874350, 0439301249

BALLINA SENIOR CITIZENS BRIDGE CLUB

Social Bridge Play in Seniors Hall. Swift Street Ballina on Wednesday & Saturdays @ 12.05 pm Enquiries Phone: 0493425002 for details.

BALLINA TOY LIBRARY

Welcomes families from Ballina Shire. 9 Regatta Avenue, Ballina. Open Tuesdays 1pm 3pm, and Saturdays 10am 1pm. Ph. 0411719074.

IN FOCUS TOASTMASTERS CLUB

How about trying something different? If you would like to improve your communication and leadership skills or simply make new friends and have fun, you are warmly invited to attend the In Focus Toastmasters Club. We meet the 3rd Wednesday evening of each month. You may attend either from the comfort of your own home via zoom or join us in person at the Cherry Street Sports Club, Ballina.

CASINO

Casino / Richmond Valley Blind Citizens Australia Branch

Casino /Richmond Valley BCA Branch July meeting is on Monday 6th July2026 at 10am in the Casino Baptist Church Hall corner Canterbury and West streets Casino. This will be a general meeting with branch activities in the hall followed by the AGM.New members are very welcome. Join us for a “Cuppa” at 10am.Free transport is available PH Denise on: 0448 014 682

FAIRY HILL

Fairy Hill Craft group is on again Thursday 2nd July, 10 a.m. at Fairy Hill Hall. Please

bring a plate to share for Christmas in July luncheon, wear your Christmas outfit & bring Christmas memorabilia. We will also complete and/or display our hand stitched needle case. For more info. please phone Sue: 66633233.

DUNGARUBBA COUNTRY MUSIC

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

WINDARA

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

SCRABBLE PLAYERS

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

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

CASINO LINE DANCE

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

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

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

CASINO MEALS ON WHEELS

Volunteers needed Our delivery runs are Mon-Fri

WEEK 3

MONDAY

V.Gray & N.Nowlan

R.Baker

TUESDAY

R.Dempster

WEDNESDAY

Simplicity Funerals

N.& K.Ryan

THURSDAY

D. & S. Forrester

FRIDAY Richmond Valley Council

CASINO COMMUNITY MEN’S SHED

Mon, Tues, Wed, attendance limited to 50 members, 8am - 1.30pm. Contact 66626423

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

CASSINO GALLERY INC.

148 Barker St. Casino. Open Thursday to Saturday 10am to 3pm during exhibitions. Regular exhibitions, workshops, classes,

and some markets during the year. Contacts Ralph 0418 485 770, Laszlo 6662 1943, Meg 0435 111 463. Artists, professional/amateur welcome to enquire about exhibiting their work at the Gallery.

CASINO LADIES AND FRIEND CRAFT GROUP

Meets 1st & 3rd Tuesday of each month.

Bring your own morning tea. Names to be in by lunch time Monday. Phone Vivian on 66621838 or Jan on 66626424.

CASINO & DISTRICT ORCHID SOCIETY

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

CASINO MINI RAIL

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

CASINO MIXED PROBUS CLUB

Our Meeting is on fourth Thursday of each month at Casino RSM Club at 10:00am. Contact Kathleen Griffins, President phone 0427622470 or Daphne Boyd, Secretary phone 0400070085

CASINO UNITING CHURCH

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

CASINO VIEW CLUB

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

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

CASINO AA WOMEN’S MEETINGS

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

LION’S CLUB CASINO

Lion’s Club meeting is held on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday each month at Casino RSM Club from 6.00pm for a 6.30pm start. Denise Green 0448014682

LISMORE CASINO NAVAL ASSOCIATION

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

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

CORAKI

Coraki Line dance

Line Dance Classes Wednesday 5pm

Beginners 6pm improver class Golf Club Ph 0418264489

CLARENCE VALLEY

Clarence Valley Probus clubs

Representatives of the Probus clubs within the Clarence Valley held the first cluster meeting for 2026 in Grafton recently. The cluster meeting held under the stewardship of Grafton Probus Ambassador, Paula Payne, bought together representatives from Grafton, Maclean and Yamba Probus clubs. Topics ranged from preparation for upcoming annual general meetings in March to how the various clubs can celebrate the 50th anniversary of Probus in Australia. It was a very full agenda,” Ambassador Paula Payne said. “Strategies to coordinate promotion of Probus 50th anniversary celebrations throughout 2026 as well as tours and guest speakers at meetings were discussed,” Paula said. Probus is celebrating 50 years of providing fun and friendship in Australia for retired and semiretired people this year. Probus is a non-fund raising, nonpolitical organisation that caters to the needs of older people in the community. If you would like to contact your local Probus Club or enquire about the many and varied activities Probus Clubs offer members please contact Grafton Probus Ambassador, Paula Payne on (M) 0439 325 856.

ELTHAM

ELTHAM MASONIC LODGE

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

EVANS HEAD

EVANS HEAD PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP

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

EVANS HEAD SEAGULLS CRAFT & QUILTERS GROUP

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

THE ROTARY CLUB OF EVANS HEAD

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

ROTARY EVANS

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

EVANS HEAD CWA BRANCH

Meeting held every 3rd Tuesday of the month commencing at 12 noon Venue Club Evans new members welcome 66828224 / 0427832524

EVANS RIVER RSL DAY CLUB

The Evans River RSL Day Club meets each Monday in the Remembrance Room at Club Evans RSL Evans Head from 10am until 2pm Cost $10 includes Morning Tea and Lunch. We have several vacancies for volunteers and members, anyone who is feeling in need of some company are welcome to attend. Come along and join in the fun. Contact Merilyn 0401493316.

GOONELLABAH

TABLE TENNIS AT GOONELLABAH

Tuesday and Thursday mornings social playing: 9am12noon; Monday and Wednesday nights social playing: 79pm; Training Monday mornings: 9am12noon; Junior coaching after school Wednesday 3.30pm4.45pm, $6 a session. Everybody is welcome – all levels. Phone center on 66251602. Mon-Thurs 9.00am1.00pm

THE PROBUS CLUB

of Goonellabah meets on the 3rd Thursday of each month at the Workers Sports Club in Oliver Ave. All welcome. Goonellabah Probus is solely a social club. We have a guest speaker each month and go for outings throughout the year. Meetings on Thursday commence at 10am and finish at midday. For further information, Liz 0451 020 241

GRAFTON

GRAFTON CWA

Bula, on Monday 22 June, an International Lunch featuring Fiji, took place at the Salvation Army Hall at 91 Oliver Street, Grafton. President of Grafton CWA, Sharron Davison welcomed everyone to the lunch. Loretta Lancaster, the Grafton CWA International Officer spoke about the study of Fiji. This included a Powerpoint Presentation about Loretta’s working and family life in Fiji. Major Mark Williamson led the blessing. Lunch featuring Fijian foods such as Dahl Soup, Kokoda, Taro and Yams, Curried Chicken, Goat Curry, Palasami, Beef Curry, Fish Curry, Vegetable Chop Suey, Roast Pork and Roast Chicken, Fried and Boiled Rice, and a mixed salad. There was a break before dessert and a fun game of trivia took place and lucky door prizes were drawn. The main meal was followed by desserts including steamed pudding, trifle, coconut cake, Kasava pie and Frangipani Pie. Yum! Dates for Your Diary: 4 July 2026- Day One- CWA land Cookery Competition at the Salvation Army Hall at 91 Oliver Street, Grafton - Plain Butter Cake, Chocolate Battercake, Marble Cake, Coffee Slice and Single Fruit Citrus Marmalade.13 July 2026- HandicraftsCardmaking

GRAFTON SENIOR CITIZENS

Grafton Senior Citizens recently held June meeting, attendance 40, apologies 18. Guest speaker, state member for Clarence, Richie Williamson, used his visit for members questions, which included Grafton hospital upgrade, including parking; library repairs; laok of a community centre. homelessness; cost of living; low-cost housing; agency nurses; old goal; crime; oondition of old bridge. There were no new members, sick members, or deaths. Correspondence: in, acceptance of Richie Williamson as Patron. out, one welcome letter. Coach trips: Day to mystery venue, 26 June, has 40 booked, & has now closed off. Port Macquarie 4-day tour from 9 Sept, desperately needs more bookings. General business: just 3 newsletters left to distribute. Soup Day: On Monday, 15 June, bookings closed for catering. Day will include morning tea, games, trivia soup lunch. Meeting competition winners: P. Cooke; D. Baker; Y. Cooney; D. Cooper-Wise; A. Ellem; L. Sorrensen;B. Cavanagh.Next meeting: Tuesday, 1t August, 10am, guest speaker to be advised. NOTE there is NO meeting in July, due to annual race carnival. Activities are also cancelled for 2 weeks of races. Enquiries: Sandra 66427720 or 0417464946 New members always most welcome.

GRAFTON ALANON FAMILY GROUP

Our meetings are held weekly on Tuesdays at 12md - 1.30pm at the Salvation Army Hall, 91-93 Oliver Street, Grafton. Meetings are always confidential. The Al-Anon Family Groups are a fellowship of relatives and friends of Alcoholics who share their experience, strength, and hope in order to solve their common problems. We believe alcoholism is a family illness and that changed attitudes can aid recovery. Al-Anon is not allied with any sect, denomination, political entity, organization, or institution; does not engage in any controversy neither endorses nor opposes any cause. There are no dues for membership. Al-Anon is self-supporting through its own voluntary contributions. Al-Anon has but one purpose: to help families of alcoholics. We do this by practicing the Twelve Steps, by welcoming and giving comfort to families and friends of alcoholics and by giving understanding and encouragement to the alcoholic. For further information see our website or to talk to a member in confidence call 1300 252 666

GRAFTON’S MIGHTY CLARENCE TOASTMASTERS CLUB

Perhaps it’s time to find out what it’s all about! If you would like to improve your communication and leadership skills. Make new friends and have fun, you are warmly invited to attend the Mighty Clarence Toastmasters Club. We meet on the 1st & 3rd Wednesday evening of each month. You may attend either from the comfort of your own home via zoom or join us in person at the Joan Muir Community Centre: 194 Turf Street, Grafton.

GRAFTON SENIORS BE FIT EXERCISE CLASSES

Every Friday at the Uniting Church, Prince Street. Join us for gentle exercises designed for Seniors. We meet at 10.30a.m. for a cuppa and a chat with the exercises commencing at 11. All equipment is provided and there is no cost to the participants. Further information can be obtained from Chris 0400490691 or Dot on 66423248 or 0477213017

GRAFTON VIEW CLUB

Grafton VIEW Club meets on the 4th Tuesday each month at Grafton District Services Club, Mary Street, commencing at 10.30am. Please come along & enjoy yourself with a tasty meal, motivated guest speaker & at the same time you will help disadvantaged children.Please phone Helen at 6642 3867 for catering purposes no later than the Friday before the meeting. As well, a social outing is held each month. You are warmly invited to come along, have some fun & you will be helping others as well. See you there!

CLARENCE RIVER HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Clarence River Historical Society Schaeffer House Museum. 190 Fitzroy Street Grafton. 2460. Phone 0266425212.We are welcoming many visitors through the museum, often from interstate and on bus trips, not only to see our wonderful collection of artefacts gathered over 90 years but also to research family history and/or places of interest in the Valley. Research Room hours are from 9 to 3 Tuesday to Thursday and Museum hours are from1 to 4 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Other times can be arranged. Admission is $6 for adults and $3 for children. If you would like to become a member of our Society and receive our interesting newsletters contact the Secretary, Robyn. Membership fees are $27 yearly.

HASTINGS POINT

HASTINGS POINT COMMUNITY CHOIR

Do you enjoy singing. Our repertoire covers a variety of music styles – both unison and part singing We would love you to join us. New members needed. You will be made most welcome When: Tuesday Evenings from 7pm – 8.30pm Where: Tricare Residential Village Community Room Tweed Coast Road, next to Shell Petrol Station. For more information, contact Jean Berry 0414794380

PROBUS CLUB OF HASTINGS POINT

The Probus Club of Hastings Point Tweed Coast meets at Hastings Point Tricare resident's lounge, on 3rd Tuesday each month, commencing with a guest speaker at 10am. Retirees and seniors are welcome to join this happy social group. Phone the Probus president Di Mills 044 732 5387 for more information.

KINGSCLIFF

KINGSCLIFF 500 CARD CLUB

Kingscliff 500 Card Club. Monday and Wednesday afternoons 1pm to 4pm Cudgen Surf Club New players WELCOME Contact: GARY 0499869992

KINGSCLIFF PROBUS CLUB

First Wednesday of the month, 10am to 12 noon in the function room of Kingscliff Bowls Club. We have an interesting guest speaker each month plus bus trips to various points on the map each third Wednesday of the month. Retirees and seniors are most welcome to join us in this happy social group. Ph Marlene 0428323736

KYOGLE

KYOGLE LINE DANCE

Line Dance Classes Mondays 7pm Beginners bottom pub Tuesdays 5pm improvers Bowling Club Ph 0418264489

BORDER RANGES RSL DAY CLUB

The Kyogle Border Ranges RSL Day Club meets each Monday in the Kyogle Seniors Centre, 3 Bloore St, Kyogle, from 10am to 2pm.Cost $10, includes Morning Tea and Lunch. We welcome Volunteers and Members, if you are in need of some Company, you are welcome to attend. Come along and have some fun. Contact Oriel 0427245324.

KYOGLE TIDY TOWNS FARMERS

MARKET

Held every Saturday morning in Stratheden Street from 8am 12. Come along grab some local fruit & veggies, experience all Kyogle has to offer. New Stall Holders welcome. Ph: Anne 66321851

LION’S CLUB OF KYOGLE

Meeting is held on the 1st & 3rd Tuesday each month at the Kyogle Lion’s shed from 6.30–7pm.Contact Neville Moon on 0448222334.

RICHMOND RIVER BEEF PRODUCER’S ASSOCIATION

Meet on the 2nd Wednesday of every month at Kyogle Showgrounds in the luncheon room at 7pm.Ph: Jan on 0427293455.

KYOGLE BAZAAR

Fourth Saturday of every month. See Kyogle Bazaar on social media for all the details or call 0459512249.

LENNOX HEAD

LENNOX HEAD EVENING VIEW CLUB

Meets on the second Tuesday of each month upstairs at the Lennox Hotel at 6.30pm for dinner at 7pm. Guests are welcome. “VIEW members support the education of disadvantaged Australian children by raising much needed funds for The Smith Family. Through fundraising activities and social events in local communities, members raise money that goes directly to The Smith Family’s learning and mentoring programs for disadvantaged. Students.” Lennox Head Evening VIEW Club currently sponsors two Learning for Life students': Sue Brennan 0409728814.

LENNOX HEAD LIONS CLUB

New members welcome to join our closeknit club where the emphasis is on community service in a fun environment. Meetings are on the first and Third Wednesday of each month at Club Lennox starting at 6.30pm. Members do what they can, when they can to facilitate the needs of our club.

LISMORE

NORTHERN RIVERS EVENING

PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

The next meeting of the Northern Rivers Evening Prostate Cancer Support Group for 2026 is to be held on Wednesday July 1st – 7pm until 9pm at THE LISMORE WORKERS 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 Please feel free to bring a friend or someone you know who may be in need of support Guest Speaker – To tell a story of the total Prostate Cancer journey from diagnosis, treatment and positive recovery Enquiries phone Bob Johnson (02) 6622 5792

LISMORE LINE DANCE

Line Dance Classes Thursday 6pm hall Beginners 7pm improver class Presbyterian Hall Ph 0418264489

AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS

Al-Anon offers help and hope for family and friends of alcoholics. If someone in your family has a drinking problem, you can see what it's doing to them. But can you see what it's doing to YOU? For information and help call 1300 ALANON (1300 252 666). AlAnon Family Groups meet regularly across Australia and online, see Website: Regular weekly meetings:MONDAY11:00am - 12.30 pm ILUKA - CWA Hall (behind the Iluka Museum), 2 Charles St. TUESDAY 12.001.30 pm GRAFTON - Hall 2, Salvation Army, 91-93 Oliver St. 1:00 - 2.30 pm LISMORE "The Studio", adjacent to 14 Pleasant St, Goonellabah & ZOOM ID 252 666 0000 (no password) (enter at rear of car park, cnr Pleasant & Fischer Sts)WEDNESDAY 6.30 - 8:00 pm BALLINA – Anglican Church, 24 Burnet St & ZOOM ID 252 666 0000 (no password) THURSDAY 5:00 - 6:00 pm (with Alateen) TWEED HEADS Anglican Church, 13 Powell St or by phone: 4022 9113, code 5771881# FRIDAY The Bangalow meeting meets in person on the FIRST and THIRD FRIDAY of the month at 1.00 - 2.30 pm at 17 Station St, Bangalow, (Bangalow Uniting Church, parking next to the Church. SUNDAY4:00 pm CHINDERAH Seventh Day Adventist Church, 83 Phillip St.

LISMORE CWA at this time, we do not, as yet, have our Schedule of Fundraising Activities finalized but will keep you up to date. We will continue with both our Monthly Member’s Meeting & Weekly Craft Meetings at our rooms in Spinks Park & will finalise these dates in our next notice. We are also ‘hoping’ to have our rooms open for morning tea & cooking/craft sales once a month to coincide with the monthly Craft Market at the Lismore City Bowling Club. (3rd Sunday of each month) & will confirm this as soon as possible. NEW MEMBERS ARE SO VERY WELCOME! If you’re interested in joining a much loved & long-established CWA Branch to assist Women & Children in our Community, here’s how to do it! For Membership enquiries call our President Aliison Kelly on 0427 216 079. If you’re a ‘CRAFTY’ lady call our Craft Officer Vicki Boyle on 0437 465 642. We look forward to meeting you

LISMORE GARDEN CLUB meets on the 2nd Thursday of each month at the East Lismore Bowling Club, commencing at 1pm. The Club has guest speakers, visits to members’ gardens and enjoy a morning tea and friendship whilst taking in the beautiful gardens. Day trips away are also on the agenda from time to time. There is the opportunity to display something special such as a particular flower or produce each month. New members are most welcome. For further information, contact the Secretary, phone 0416 281 365.

Lismore RED DOVE AA Meetings, Every Monday, Wednesday & Friday 12 Noon and Sundays 10.30am. Upstairs in The Uniting Church, cnr of Keen St & Woodlark St Lismore. Disability lifts available. Newcomers welcome.

LISMORE LIBRARY Library Afterschool

Lismore Children's Library is launching a new program of afterschool activities called Library Afterschool. This term, we invite local children to get involved in PAPERCRAFT and LEGO activities. All sessions will be fun, free, lowkey and inclusive, facilitated by your friendly Lismore Children's Library staff.

PAPERCRAFT 3.30pm5pm at Lismore Children’s Library, first and third Tuesday of the month. Papercraft will include learning to draw, making origami and scissor and glue crafts. LEGO 3.30pm5pm at Lismore Children’s Library, second and fourth Friday of the month Explore our excellent LEGO collection. Alternating themed and free play sessions. The Northern Rivers Lodge No. 77 meets on the 2nd Wednesday of each month (except in January) at the Lismore Masonic Centre, 111 Magellan Street Lismore. We welcome all Masons to an enjoyable and entertaining evening. Inquiries 0412665674

LISMORE CRAFTS & QUILTERS

You are invited to join, LISMORE CRAFTS & QUILTERS. We meet on Mondays at the Lismore Uniting Church, Red Dove, Hall 9.30am-12.30pm. We do Patchwork, Quilting & all Crafts. We also have night group, who meet at McLean Ridges Hall, Monday evenings, 5.30pm-9pm. Cost is $30 for the year & $5 each Monday. Looking forward to seeing you. Enquiries to Margaret Boxsell 0427141425

LISMORE LIONS CLUB

Please save your used stamps to raise funds for The Australian Lions Children’s Mobility Foundation. Stamps are collected & forwarded on to be sorted & sold at Auction, to raise money for Children’s Mobility contact Margaret Boxsell on 0427141425

Lismore City Bowling

Lismore City Bowling and Recreation Club Community BINGO every Monday morning 10 am to 12 noon. Morning tea and Progressive Jackpot. All welcome. Phone 66 21 5991.

LISMORE CITY CONCERT BAND Rehearsals are held during school terms on Mondays, 6.157.45pm at Southern Cross University. If you can play a concert band instrument: brass, woodwind, or percussion, please come and join us! All ages welcome. We have some instruments available for loan. Ph: 0432575911

LISMORE MEN & COMMUNITY SHED President: Pul Hinchey 0480516590

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

LISMORE ORCHID SOCIETY INC. City of Lismore Orchid Society Inc. Meetings are now at the Lismore Show Ground, In Norms Kitchen under the Members Grandstand. Alexandra Parade, North Lismore. NSW 2480 Meeting Date; the first Saturday of the month Meeting Time: 9:30am display plants set up, 10:00am meeting starts

with a cuppa after. Contact President Mr. Steven Muldoon 0427789773

Orchid meeting involves the sharing of information, knowledge and friendship. All welcome. Lismore City Bowling and Recreation Club Community BINGO every Monday Morning 10am to 12 noon. Morning tea and Progressive Jackpot. All welcome. Ph 6621 5991

LISMORE SPINNERS & WEAVERS

Please join us Weaving, Spinning, Felting, Dyeing, Knitting, Crochet, Workshops, Chat…. Sharing Craft & Ideas. From 10am, on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Fridays of each month. (Formal business meeting is 10.30-11.30 every 1st Friday) McLeans Ridges Hall Cnr Cowlong and McLeans Ridges Rds. (off Bruxner Hwy) Morning Tea provided. Bring your lunch (and a mug) Contac: Kim: 0423935060, Linda: 0419489987

LISMORE TARGET RIFLE CLUB for .22 calibre rifles, meets Wed nights from 6.00pm (setup time) & the 1st & 3rd Sat of each month from 12.30pm (setup time). Air rifle shooting for .22 & 177 air rifles will also be available at the Saturday shoots. For more information, please phone Derek on 66282082 (ah).

CODEPENDANTS ANONYMOUS (CoDA)

Co-Dependants Anonymous is a Twelve Step Fellowship of people whose common purpose is to develop healthy relationships. The only requirement for membership is a desire for healthy relationships. The CoDA meeting in the Lismore area meets on Mondays from 6.30pm to 7.30pm at Riverland’s Drug and Alcohol Centre. 75 Hunter Street, Lismore. For further information call 0456178826 or 0408336143

EAST LISMORE BOWLING CLUB

Community Bingo Tuesday night 7.30pm start. 20 games of bingo + progressive jackpot Neilson Street East Lismore. Everyone Welcome

EAST LISMORE SOCIAL TENNIS

Social Tennis is played at East Lismore Tennis Club, Cnr Neilson St & Oakley Avenue every Tuesday from 8am. We invite social players of all abilities to join us, we are a mixed group who enjoy a morning’s tennis without the commitment of competition. Ph: Fay Ross 0412910487. Everyone welcome.

MAINLY MUSIC

Fun, interactive, music sessions for young children [birth to school age] and their parents/caregivers in a relaxed setting on Tuesdays starting at 9:30am during School Terms. Children will be introduced to music, creativity and more. They will develop gross motor skills, as well as socialise with others in a loving, shared family environment. Morning tea with snacks included. Mainly Music at Lismore Anglican Parish Centre, 10 Zadoc Street, LISMORE. T: 0266213200

PROBUS CLUB OF LISMORE HEIGHTS

Our mixed group meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month at the Lismore Heights Bowling Club in High St. Our brief meeting is followed by morning tea and a guest speaker. Senior’s lunch for $15 at noon is optional. Guests and visitors are welcome. Ring/text Roslyn on 0437606674 for details of our other monthly social gatherings and outings.

ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE NETWORKING

Want to be part of an innovative, interesting, and inclusive networking group who meet fortnightly to share ideas, meet other professionals and work together to make a difference in your community? Then Rotary Club of Lismore Networking could be the answer for you! Meets on the 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month at 5.30pm at Lismore Workers' Club Function Room 1, 231 Keen Street Lismore. Ph: Rita on 0413300578 or Gae 0412742095.

ROTARY CLUB OF LISMORE WEST INC

East Lismore Bowling Club each Thursday at 6pm. New members would be made most welcome. Further information available on 0428151934.

ROTARY CLUB OF SUMMERLAND SUNRISE

Interested in contributing to community?

Local and international?

The Rotary Club of Summerland Sunrise meets every Friday at 7.05am for Breakfast at Red Dove Café 80 Keen st Lismore. Join us please. Ph: 0435990919

SUMMERLAND AMATEUR RADIO CLUB

Meetings of the club are normally held on the second Sunday of each month at the clubrooms: 412 Richmond Hill Road, Richmond Hill at 1pm. Visitors are welcome. The clubrooms are usually open on Sunday afternoons from about 1pm onwards. We are primarily amateur radio enthusiasts and welcome persons interested in radio, electronics, astronomy, and similar subjects.

SUMMERLAND BONSAI SOCIETY INC.

Come and learn an addictive hobby with us. We provide personal support from experienced teachers as well as demonstrations and Bonsai information.

Club days are held on the second Saturday of every month at 1pm in the Red Dove at Lismore Be inspired about the art of creating little trees. Ph: 0438103601

ZEN AND INSIGHT MEDITATION

LISMORE HEIGHTS INSIGHT (VIPASSANA) MEDITATION and practice: This mind-fulness-based meditation group sits on Wednesdays from 7:008:30pm. The evening includes meditation instructions, sitting and walking meditation, Dharma talks and discussion. For further details, please contact Rosie 0402 682 925. Beginners and experienced meditations are warmly welcomed.

ZEN MEDITATION and practice The Zen meditation group sits on Mondays from 6:30pm8:15pm. If you wish to attend

MACLEAN

MACLEAN VIEW CLUB

Monthly meetings the 3rd Thursdays of each month at 11am. Contact Ruth Toyer on 0409844212 by Mondays, no later than 7pm. Numbers are required for catering purpose

MCLEANS RIDGES

MCLEANS RIDGES CRAFT GROUP meet at the McLeans Ridges Hall, Cowlong Road, McLeans Ridges on the 2nd Saturday of each month from 9.30am to 3.30pm. Scrapbooking, card making, paper craft, knitting whatever takes your fancy. Come along for an enjoyable day. Bring your own morning tea and lunch. Coffee, tea, milk provided. A small fee to cover hall hire. Ph 0401 047 513.

MURWILLUMBAH

COMMUNITY PRINTMAKERS

MURWILLUMBAH

Fine art printmakers. Meet at studio space 224 Stokers Rd, Stokers Siding. Prints, gallery, workshops and more! Ph: Peter 0498399640 or Sue 0408493253.

MURWILLUMBAH COMMUNITY GARDEN

Members and visitors are invited to join the group for activities and gardening tips most Sundays. Time 35pm, street parking, BYO, covered footwear, comfy clothing, hat, and water. Children ok with strict supervision. Covid plan operating. Ph: Bob Johnson (02)66225792.

POTTSVILLE

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS: Is drinking costing you more than money? AA works and is very active in Pottsville. We meet every Thursday 7pm at St Marks 15A Coronation Ave Pottsville and local contact 1800 423 431 or 04019 45671

POTTSVILLE FUN CROQUET CLUB

Meets at Black Rocks Sports Fields on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8.30am. New members are welcome to come and join us for a hit and a bit of fun. For any further enquires please call Jean on 0431606375.

TWEED HEADS

POETS AND WRITERS ON THE TWEED meet every Tuesday at the South Tweed Sports Club 1.30-3.30pm. Beginners welcome. Phone 0755248035.

TWEED HEADS PROBUS CLUB

Probus Club, Coolangatta/Tweed Heads. Be at Club Tweed at 1000am on the first Wednesday of the Month. Visitors and new members are very welcome.

TWEED PATCHWORK GROUP

Meet the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month at South Tweed Community Centre from 91pm at 18 Heffron Street Tweed Heads south all beginners welcome phone Moira on 0418686643. A friendly group of people with common interest in seeing, quilting and related craft.

TWIN TOWNS DAY VIEW CLUB VIEW as in Voice, Interests, Education of Women (Not many people are aware of what ‘VIEW’ club stands for!) AND NOT ONLY IN NAME: We are a group of ladies who care what will become of our youth! Our heritage – Their heritage – It is sad but true that many of our young people have no direction in their lives. Every morning, we wake to the news that violence has occurred overnight in what was once considered a safe neighbourhood. How do these offending children/ youth feel the next morning knowing they have caused so much heartache is this why we also hear of youth harming themselves so they can spread the pain? So, this is where VIEW Clubs and other similar clubs are starting from the bottom of the ladder by providing much needed funds to educate our youngsters so they will WANT to become the very best person they can not only in education but in their community and being proud of themselves and giving their parents hope for their child’s future. We at TWIN TOWNS DAY VIEW CLUB PROVIDE THE NECESSARY FUNDS to educate just 7 of these children. We know not where they come from, but someone in their community has contacted THE SMITH FAMILY and they in turn contact VIEW CLUBS OF AUSTRALIA who anonymously contact a VIEW Club who in turn take over the responsibility for these worthy children’s fees and so year after year their tertiary fees are paid. These fees are raised by VIEW Club members who attend meetings, listen to interesting guest speakers, and regularly have days out at each other’s homes – so FUN and a tremendous satisfaction of knowing we are helping our future generation. More information can be gleaned by contacting our

President Kathie on 0407709629.

WOLLONGBAR

WOLLONGBAR GARDEN CLUB

Meets on the second Tuesday of the month, from 9.45 till noon, at Rous Mill Hall, Rous Mill Rd, Rous Mill. We have guest speakers bi-monthly and extra-curricular activities like garden visits and coffee and chat mornings. Each month there is a trading table of plants and produce and a $2 raffle. Everyone is very welcome. Follow us on Facebook or for phone enquiries please ring Lee: 0401 763 163

YAMBA

YAMBA LIONS CLUB

Yamba Lions Club’s meetings are held 2nd & 4th Thursdays of month at Yamba Bowling Club, commencing at 7pm for 7.30pm. For further information, please contact the Secretary Peter 0417546097. Social outings also held at various time and visitors and new members’ welcome.

ALL NORTHERN RIVERS

PTSD PEER SUPPORT

Free • Trauma-Informed • 365 Days a Year PTSD Peer Support meet-ups offer a gentle, recovery-focused space to connect with others who understand. Daily online meetups run every morning at 7am (NSW) for one hour and are open to anyone living with PTSD. FREE – NO FEE to join Trauma Informed with Peer-led Moderator No pressure to share Recovery focused – with wellbeing information Safe, supportive, we don’t talk about the trauma event. Accessible for rural and remote communities When it comes to PTSD – “if you’ve got it, we get it” Whether you join to listen or take part in the discussion, you’ll be welcomed. For more information: PH 0478022022

NORTHERN RIVES MUSTANGS

If you own a Ford Mustang and would like to do monthly drives with other members for more information, contact John 0404 884 192

NRCF WOMEN’S GIVING CIRCLE

The Northern Rivers Community Foundation (NRFC) is inviting Northern Rivers women to play an active role in empowering vulnerable women and girls in our region. The newly formed NRFC’s Women’s Giving Circle brings Northern Rivers women together to achieve equality and human rights for women and girls in our region and enable them to realize their full potential. Ph: 0499862886

The NORTHERN RIVERS HASH HOUSE HARRIERS is a nonprofit community group that is part of a worldwide organization. The Hash House Harriers meet every Monday at 6pm for a run/walk from various locations around Lismore, Alstonville, and Ballina. The run/walk lasts for approximately an hour, followed by friendship, banter and grub. We are very friendly and welcome new members.

NORTHERN RIVERS NAVAL & MARINERS ASSOCIATION

This association was formed to attract veterans for companionship, wellbeing and to supply advocacy to veterans. We hold an informal gathering every Friday, 2.30pm at Ballina Angling Club (families are welcome). Ph: Allan Watt: 0402 749 582

ALL AREAS

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS If you’re looking for help to stop drinking, you can reach out to Alcoholics Anonymous 24 hours a day. Our phone line is always answered by someone who’s been where you are – an alcoholic in recovery. We understand the challengers, and we know we’re the right people to help you. You can call AA anytime on 1300 22 22 22

WEATHER

FORECAST

See www.bom.gov.au/australia/warnings

Northern Rivers District:

Mostly sunny. Medium chance of showers along the coastal fringe, slight chance elsewhere. Light winds becoming south to southeasterly 15 to 20 km/h during the day then becoming light during the afternoon.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. High chance of showers, most likely in the afternoon and evening. Light winds becoming southerly 15 to 25 km/h during the morning then becoming light during the afternoon.

Northern Tablelands District:

Sunny. Areas of frost in the morning, mainly on and west of the ranges. Light winds.

Thursday. Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers on and east of the ranges, most likely in the morning and afternoon. Winds east to southeasterly 15 to 25 km/h.

New South Wales:

Dry and mostly sunny apart from a few showers along the coast. Areas of morning fog in the south and morning frost on and west of the Divide. Daytime temperatures near or slightly below average. Southeast to southwesterly winds, fresh at times along the coastal fringe.

Thursday. Showers in the east, more likely along the northern half of the coast and adjacent ranges. Partly cloudy in the west. Morning fog and frost about the ranges and southern inland. Daytime temperatures near average. South to southeasterly winds, fresh at times on the northern coastal fringe, and

tending easterly on the ranges.

Byron Coast:

Winds: Southerly 15 to 20 knots. Seas: 1 to 1.5 metres. Swell: Southerly around 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore. Weather: Partly cloudy. 70% chance of showers. Coffs Coast: Winds: Southerly 15 to 20 knots. Seas: 1 to 1.5 metres. Swell: Southerly around 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore. Weather: Partly cloudy. 70% chance of showers. Gold Coast Waters: Winds: South to southeasterly 15 to 20 knots. Seas: 1 to 1.5 metres. Swell: Southerly below 1 metre inshore, increasing to 1 to 1.5 metres offshore. Weather: Partly cloudy. 80% chance of showers.

Champions Crowned as Seas The Day Women’s Surf Festival Draws Thousands to Kingscliff

Women’s surfing shines as record participation and community spirit take centre

By Jeff Gibbs

The 2026 NRMA Insurance Seas The Day Women’s Surf Festival has wrapped up at Kingscliff Beach, celebrating another successful year of competition, inclusion and community connection, with thousands of women and girls taking part across the two-day event.

Now in its fourth year, the festival has cemented its reputation as the world’s largest female participation surfing event, attracting more than 300 competitors across shortboard, longboard and para surfing divisions. The event coincided with International Surfing Day and featured a packed program of surfing competitions, workshops, panel discussions, wellness activities and a celebrity surf challenge.

The festival brought together some of Australia’s most recognised sporting figures, including Olympic swimming champion Emma McKeon, former Olympian Owen Wright, professional surfer Alana Blanchard and a host of world champions and surfing icons.

One of the festival’s highlights came in the NRMA Insurance Open Women’s Shortboard division, where Snapper Rocks SRC claimed victory through the combined efforts of Samantha Arderne, Jordy Halford and Madison Kenchington.

The team overcame strong competition from clubs

across northern New South Wales and southeast Queensland to secure the title.

In the Sodii Hydration Open Women’s Longboard division, Atmosea impressed judges with stylish and technically polished performances to take top honours. Meanwhile, Team Daisies

and Lily’s from Torquay, Victoria, won the Ghanda Girls Under 18 Shortboard division, showcasing the depth of emerging female surfing talent.

The Thermos Open Women’s Para division delivered some of the most inspiring moments of the weekend, with For the Greater Gouda

securing victory ahead of strong competition.

Two-time World Para Surfing Champion Em Dieters produced one of the highest-scoring rides of the event, earning praise for her performance and advocacy for greater inclusion in surfing.

Beyond the competition, festival-goers participated

in wellness programs, breathwork sessions, yoga, and educational talks focused on women’s participation and leadership in surfing. Surfing pioneers Pam Burridge and Gail Cooper reflected on the growth of women’s surfing, while high-profile speakers shared insights into sport, resilience and personal development.

Surfing Australia High Performance Director Kate Wilcomes said the festival played an important role in creating opportunities for women and girls to develop confidence, friendships and pathways within the sport.

NSW Minister for Sport Steve Kamper praised the event’s contribution to female participation in sport and its positive impact on the local economy, with visitors travelling from across Australia to attend.

As the festival concluded on Sunday afternoon, organisers celebrated not only the champions crowned across five divisions but also the growing influence of women’s surfing in Australia and the strong community spirit that continues to drive the event forward.

The ladies had to contend with some tough, waterlogged conditions out on the course, on Tuesday but they still managed to card some solid scores!

Here is a quick wrap-up of the day's results:

Competition Leaderboard

• Winner: Kate Williams (18 points)

• Runner-Up: Wendy Britton (16 points)

• 3rd Place: Cathy Munro (16 points, decided on a countback)

Other Prizes

• Nearest the Pin (Div 1): No winner

• Nearest the Pin (Div 2): Robyn Macrae

• Longest Putt: Liz Strang

Congratulations to Kate for leading the field, and to all the prize winners who man-aged to handle the soggy turf so well!

Thursday's Results

Kate Williams and Wendy Britton are holding onto their hot streaks, even with some new players in the mix!

Here is the wrap-up for Thursday's results:

Competition Leaderboard

• Winner: Kate Williams (22 points) – Back-to-back leader!

• Runner-Up: Wendy Britton (17 points) –Holding strong in second!

• 3rd Place: Amanda Harvey (15 points)

• Nearest the Pin

(Division 1): No winner

• Nearest the Pin

(Division 2): Jan Galletly Great job to Kate for another fantastic round, and congratulations to all the day's winners!

JENKINS AND

JACKSON TAKE OUT CASINO SOCIAL GOLF AMBROSE

Trevis Jenkins and Wayne Jackson combined brilliantly to claim victory in the Casino Social Golf competition on Sunday, July 21, winning the twoperson ambrose event with an impressive net score of 35.5.

The winning pair narrowly edged out Dave Roberts and Paul Day, who finished runners-up with a net score of 36.75 after a closely contested morning on the course. The putting trophy was

awarded to Vinny and Hulky, who recorded an excellent 15 putts for the round. Vinny also enjoyed additional success by taking home the players draw prize. Nearest-the-pin honours were shared among a number of players. R. Francis claimed the prizes on the 8th and 11th holes, while Wayne Jackson was closest on the 9th. Vinny collected nearest-the-pin awards on both the 10th and 13th holes. G. Randall was successful on the 12th, Jeff Rankin on the 14th, M. Gooding on the

Players will return next Sunday for a singles Stableford competition over the bottom 10 holes. The event will be sponsored by Newstead Automotive Services Casino.

Visitors are welcome to participate, with hit-off times available from 6.30am through to 7.30am.

Redmen and Snappers share points

By Gary Nichols

It was always going to go down to the wire.

No surprises.

Most games between the Grafton Redmen and Coffs Snappers first grade sides come down to the bounce of the ball or crucial moments which ultimately determines the outcome.

Grafton had more than their fair share of possession in the first half pinning the visitors deep in their own red zone, however the home side failed to trouble the scoreboard.

Grafton had plenty of opportunities to put points on the board however panic and far too many cut-out passes failed to find the mark.

Leading 10-3 with five minutes left on the clock, Snapper’s fullback Morgan French found himself in space down the left touch line.

The Snappers speedster beat three Redmen defenders to score out wide and level up proceedings.

Redmen number eight Senio Manu Faalupega played himself to a

standstill while fellow forwards Orsi Kunailesa and Kyle Hancock both produced outstanding games.

The loss and a win by Hastings Vikings see’s Grafton slip to fourth place on the Mid North Coast ladder.

But the Redmen’s

women’s team continued on a roll.

Another epic contest unfolded at the Hay Street Rugby Fields, South Grafton on Saturday between heavyweights Coffs Snappers and the Grafton Redmen.

For the second time this season Grafton came away

with the competition points with a well-deserved 17-7 victory.

Both sides are without doubt the bench-mark teams of the Mid North Zone competition and gave their all in a pulsating contest.

Clare Gardner, who made the switch from the

backs to the forwards this season played her best game in Redmen colours and was rewarded with a five-pointer thanks to some brilliant lead-up by centre Shaniqua Williams.

Scrum-half Murphy Thompson once again provided plenty of highlight reels while captain/coach Tamar

McHugh controlled the game and kept the opposition defence guessing with her ball skills and vision.

Outside backs Zahlee Kilduff and Emily Loy were both superb while forward Adi Woods proved she can handle the top grade with a dominant performance.

Olympians, Surfing Icons and World Champions Shine at Seas The Day Festival

By Jeff Gibbs

Thousands of spectators and competitors descended on Kingscliff Beach over the weekend as the 2026 NRMA Insurance Seas The Day Women’s Surf Festival celebrated International Surfing Day with a showcase of surfing, wellness, inspiration and community.

Now in its fourth year, the festival has cemented its status as the world’s largest female participation surf event, attracting more than 300 competitors across shortboard, longboard and para surfing divisions while drawing some of Australia’s most accomplished athletes and surfing personalities.

The two-day festival featured a packed schedule of competition, workshops, panel discussions and wellness sessions, creating a vibrant atmosphere both in and out of the water.

Competitors enjoyed clean surf conditions as heats got underway across

several divisions, including the Babybel Under 12 Mini Shredders, Sodii Hydration Open Women’s Longboard, Ghanda Girls Under 18 Shortboard, Thermos Open Women’s Para and the NRMA Insurance Open Women’s Shortboard.

Beyond the surf competition, festival-goers packed the Women of Surf Hub and Wellness Hub, where leading athletes, coaches and industry figures shared their experiences and insights.

Among the major drawcards was internationally renowned surfer Alana Blanchard, who spoke about her surfing career, motherhood and the importance of confidence and authenticity.

Blanchard said the festival created opportunities for girls from all backgrounds to connect through surfing in a supportive environment.

“This festival is so special because it brings girls together from all walks of life,” she said.

“It gets everyone in the water and introduces the younger generation to competition, often for the very first time, but in a fun, supportive and inclusive environment.”

Australia’s most decorated Olympian, Emma McKeon, also attracted large crowds during a panel discussion alongside Olympians Owen Wright and Danielle Scott. The trio shared their experiences of competing on the world stage and the lessons they had learned through elite sport.

McKeon said sport had transformed her life and she hoped the festival would inspire young women to pursue opportunities through surfing and other activities.

“I grew up around the water and absolutely loved it — it changed my life,” she said.

“Sport has given me health, happiness, confidence and opportunities I never could have imagined.”

Industry leaders including former World Surf League commissioner Jessi Miley-Dyer and Steph Hendrickson also discussed leadership, gender equity and the future of women’s surfing, highlighting the progress made and opportunities still ahead.

The festival’s Wellness Hub offered sessions focused on nutrition, recovery, strength and conditioning, yoga and mindfulness. Participants heard from Australian Survivor contestant Shayelle Lajoie, sleep specialist Sally Howe and strength and conditioning coach Candice Land, reinforcing the festival’s commitment to supporting women’s health and wellbeing.

One of the weekend’s most entertaining events was the Celebrity Surf Challenge, where Olympians, media personalities, para surfers and surfing legends teamed up in a tag-team competition.

Surfing world champions

Pauline Menczer, Pam Burridge and Chelsea Hedges joined former competitors, commentators and sporting personalities in a celebration of female achievement across generations.

The challenge was ultimately won by Chelsea Hedges, Tru Starling and Chelsea Williams, capping off a day that showcased

both competitive spirit and camaraderie.

With finals day to follow, organisers said the event continued to demonstrate the strength of women’s surfing and its growing influence across Australia, while providing an inclusive platform for women and girls of all ages and abilities to participate in the sport.

Sports

REDMEN AND SNAPPERS SHARE POINTS

By

2026 11-12

mental as anything

Busby Marou | Alex Lloyd

Dave Graney & Clare Moore | Rob Snarski & Lindy Morrison

Hayley Grace & The Bay Collective | Bill Chambers

Marcia Howard & Damian Howard | The Pinks | Jo Jo Smith

Youth Battle Of The Bands | Lucie Thorne | Kyle Lionhart

Abbie cardwell | FINOJET | Rogue Elements | The Hoochers

Kristina Olsen | Wild Rocket | Lou Bradley | z-Star

Kangaroos With Machine Guns | Wanita Queen of Honky Tonk

Minnie Marks | Mandy Hawkes | Women Of Country | Brodie Buttons

Jimmy Dowling | Joey’s Coop | Velcro Bully | Orthentix | Yazmindi