RUFFIE W ELL NES S HU B NUTR A ORGAN ICS S TAGE TR ACKS S TAGE
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TU RDAY 21S T JUN E
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BREATH WORK F LOW S TATE M BM
YOGA 11:15A M
SU RF CONDIT IONI NG TRAINI NG (A DULTS)
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OLYMPIC S PORTS DIETITIAN: SA LLY WALKER
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SU RF CONDIT IONI NG TRAINI NG ( YOUTH )
2:15 PM IN DIA ROB IN SON Q& A
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THE HEA LING POWE R OF WAVES: SU RF SIST ERS
FREE & FAMILY FRIENDLY FESTIVAL
PAUL INE M ENCZ ER & PAM BU RR IDGE
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LI LL IAN A BOW RE Y ACTOR & SU RFER
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SU RFERS FOR C L IM ATE B EL IN DA BAGGS & TU LLY WHIT E 1:15 PM
BEATR IZE RYDER WSL PHOTOGRA PHER
2:15 PM R ISE: $1M GRAN T FOR WOME NS SU R FI NG
CH ELSE A H EDGES: HOW TO B E A SU R FI NG MU M
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WENDY BOTH A & L AYNE BEACH LE Y
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C ELE BRATI NG F E MA LE IN DIGE NOUS SU RFERS
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B OOST JU ICE FOUN DER: JANINE A LL IS
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SAM BLOOM 4X PAR A SU R FI NG CHAM PION
SCAN FOR MORE INFO
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THE NE XT G E N: QUI NCY SYMONDS, LE IHANI ZORIC
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PSYCHOLOGY OF SU R FI NG
LAND & S E E TH E RA PY
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ADVANCE D S PORTS
DIETITIAN WITH SA LLY AN DERSON
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FE MA L E SU RFBOARD SHA PERS Q& A
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LE IHANI ZORIC: A RT WORKS HOP
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DECODING THE L INEUP : LAND & SE A TH E RA PY
L IVE PODCA ST: WE SHOULDN' T B E F RIENDS W/ N ICK CA RROL & HANNAH AN DERSON
11:00A M IN DIA ROB IN SON & SOPHIE MC CU LLOCH
12 : 00 PM LAYNE BEACH LE Y AWAKE ACA DEMY
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36 HOURS LOST AT SEA : ST EPH WEISSE
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THE POWE R OF OCEAN TH E RA PY: SU R FI NG WIT H A DISA BILITY
Tweed Border Force raids
Anger over Tringa St DA
By Jo Kennett
ANGRY RESIDENTS who live near a proposed 37 lot industrial subdivision at 60 Tringa Street, Tweed Heads West, have walked out of a Council meeting which saw the developer given the green light to have a temporary access road made permanent.
The “zombie” development application (DA), lodged in 1996, has been mired in controversy after developer MAAS Group Holdings illegally cleared land on the environmentally sensitive site which sits on the Cobaki Creek floodplain.
Tringa Street residents previously said the site, which is home to threatened ecological communities, had been ‘moonscaped’ with council having to impose a stop work order which was ignored.
The approved access for the site was Hakea Drive off Gray Street with residents concerned MAAS wanted to make the illegal temporary access through residential Tringa Street permanent because the Hakea Drive access involved considerable infrastructure and expense.
The developer put in an amendment to have the access through Sussyer Street with Mayor Chris Cherry putting up an amendment at the June 5 council meeting to defer the item so they could visit the site. Councillors Rhiannon Brinsmead, Kimberly Hone and James Owen voted against the amendment with councillors
Cherry and Meredith Dennis voting in favour.
“I’ve got concerns about how the culverts will act and I’d really like to go out on site and have a look at how this will work as a permanent access site for the development,” the mayor said at the meeting.
“I think there are a lot of things that need to be taken into consideration that perhaps weren’t part of the temporary application.”
One resident, who didn’t want to be named, called it, “another dark chapter in the history of this zombie development.”
“Most bizarre is the approval to open the road before it’s completed and without even a basic geotechnical or engineering assessment for this public road within a tidal waterway,” the resident said.
“It’s still a mystery who the owner is with
different names in the council report, the DA Tracker and the sign on site.
“The risk still remains that there might still be some form of access through Tringa Street.”
The resident said that what had happened at the Tringa Street site was “a massive red flag for other zombie developments” mooted for Hastings Point and Kingscliff (Gales Holdings) within coastal zones.
“The real risk is flooding with the loss of floodplain storage areas in tidal zones. Where is all the water going to go when great hills are built and a damming effect is created? It will flow into adjoining residential areas.
“The significant failures to date on this site potentially exposes legal and financial liability on Tweed Shire ratepayers.”
E-bike accidents spike
By Jo Kennett
HOSPITAL EMERGENCY departments
have seen a spike in e-bike and scooter related presentations and say the high speeds involved can lead to life-changing injuries, with doctors urging riders to wear helmets and stick to the speed limit of 25 km/h.
Mullumbimby man Tom Evans was hit by an e-bike at Casuarina in April with witnesses alleging the rider was travelling at around 80 km/h.
Tom was taken straight to the Gold Coast University Hospital (GCUH) because of the severity of his injuries.
He sustained a fractured cheek bone, multiple facial lacerations, concussion, five broken ribs, broken teeth, arm injuries and a serious knee injury with bone chips and extensive ligament damage, while the teenage rider broke his wrist.
As the bikes aren’t registered or licensed, there is no recourse to insurance or compensation by the injuries caused, unless the rider is over 16, as was the case in
this accident, where the rider and their parents, if proved negligent, can be sued for damages.
Tom is home from hospital, but is having trouble sleeping because of the pain he is in and wants to see legislation around e-bikes change.
A spokesperson from the GCUH said they had already had 218 e-bike related accident presentations this year, with 45 in January, 50 in February, 45 in March, 52 in April, and 26 in May.
The spokesperson said that while traditional bike accidents still far outweigh that of e-bike presentations, “the high speeds involved in e-transport related accidents can lead to life-changing injuries, including head injuries, trauma, wrist injuries and bone fractures.”
“Knowing and understanding the road rules, not riding distracted and always wearing protective gear including a helmet are the best ways to prevent injuries,” the spokesperson said.
Tweed Valley Hospital Director of Emergency Medicine Rob Davies said figures
collected by the Sydney Children’s Hospital Network in 2024 found a spike in injuries related to e-bikes and e-scooters across the state, with 64 children injured while riding an e-bike or e-scooter, while a further five children were injured after being hit as a pedestrian.
“Tweed Valley Hospital is experiencing an increase in patients presenting to the Emergency Department with minor injuries such as scrapes, cuts and broken bones from e-bike and e- scooter injuries,” Dr Davies said.
“We are also seeing more major presentations involving abdominal, chest and head trauma.
“Northern NSW Local Health District is urging the community to know the rules for these devices and to ensure children and young people are taking safety measures, including keeping to the speed limit and wearing protective equipment
“Helmets are a vital form of safety protection and can significantly reduce the risk of serious head injuries when riding bikes and scooters of any kind.”
The Tringa Street site to the left, beside Cobaki Creek, just south of the Gold Coast Airport. INSET: The site was accessed through an environmental buffer zone and cleared.
Visit your branch you say?
I’ve recently had an appalling issue with access of my e-banking account with a particular bank.
As part of prolonged attempts to get an explanation as to the problem I was advised to “go to my branch to sort it out”. No joke.
I advised that the nearest branch was an hour’s drive away and wasn’t that the whole point of e-banking?
For example access without having to go into a branch? Which means banks don’t have to employ anyone anymore anywhere.
Apparently, the wholesale closure of bank branches - because most people e-bank now - completely missed this person.
How many others out there are hanging on the phone for hours until the “helpline” answers, and then all you get is this type of response. Not about bank bashing, just trying to get some advice as to the logic as to what is happening with banking generally.
DF Ryder, Murwillumbah Caravan park result
Just finished reading the wonderful result on saving the land that was destined for a caravan park.
Congratulations to all the residents who opposed this development.
I live on Kingscliff and will be attending a meeting on Tuesday regarding the development opposite Mantra resort.
It will go ahead as it has to but I am so against the five storeys that is on the plan.
Kingscliff has to be capped at three stories.
Thank you for your informative newspaper.
Patricia Betts, Pottsville Israel was given with conditions
In response to the ‘While we are imagining things’ letter in The Weekly last week (June 12) let me express facts.
Prior to WWI and WWII the Jews
had no country they could call ‘home’ – there was no country on a map named Israel.
After World War I, Britain took control of the land named Palestine, and after WWII in response to the petitions of the Jews calling for a homeland, Britain gave the Jews part of inhabited Palestine in the belief the Palestinians wouldn’t mind.
The Jews accepted the Palestinian land offered by Britain which was given on the condition Jews would not exceed the Palestinian population.
The Jews renamed that Palestinian land as Israel. That held momentarily. No sooner had the Jews taken possession they took steps to do away with the condition.
The Jews had the support of the USA. Britain caved in. Jews in New York flooded into their new Jewish homeland overcrowding it – hence the need arose for the Jews to take inch by inch more Palestinian land (Gaza) to the point they are taking the lot, in my view.
Ian Pratt, Bilinga Living with incontinence
Incontinence is a common health issue that can have a significant impact on a person’s physical, emotional and social wellbeing. World Continence Week is an important reminder to prioritise open conversations, break the silence, encourage early intervention and access to care.
Our National Continence Helpline is free and confidential and staffed by nurse continence specialists, it’s a safe first step for anyone experiencing bladder or bowel concerns. We want all Australians to know they’re not alone and support is available with a simple telephone call.
Continence Health Australia works to ensure healthcare providers, policymakers, and the public prioritise incontinence as a significant health issue. The organisation is committed to raising awareness, reducing stigma, and advocating for better diagnostic and treatment options for all Australians.
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The Helpline is available Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm AEST and is staffed by nurse continence specialists offering expert information, guidance on managing symptoms, referrals to local services, and connections to support networks.
Jim Cooper, CEO of Continence Health Australia Pay back… you be the judge.
With the succes in the 1970s of Greenbank island development by Tweed Shire Council led by council engineer Mr Keith Curran, a clever man with great energy and foresight given splendid support by the councillors, funds flowed in. Both Murwillumbah and Tweed Heads got a civic centre and South Tweed a swimming pool complex. It was always tit for tat with Murwillumbah and Tweed Heads.
Still having a progressive council and councillors with vision, now it’s Murwillumbahs turn. Councillors identified our 500 acre farm east of Kielvale as the best area for future development. While negotiating, council changed the zoning of a number of adjoining properties for future growth, this was real foresight for future housing needs of the Tweed, It all but came reality except for one small hitch.
Later council expanded its boundaries from Nunderi to Reserve Creek to Smarts Road to the proposed industrial estate. A large area, one property owner, now able to give his five children each a portion of land the sizes by needs and merit, with no devils fig’s on these properties. The adjoining 100 acre property once ran seven steers, now nil. It has acres of devil figs and, to make matters worst, it joins a national park. This a sacred area for weeds and wild dogs, these
farms like a lot of others on the Tweed “ as poor as church mice”
Ours has been the most sought after property in the Murwillumbah area for the last 60 years. 700 acres is a developers delight, just dealing with one owner. If I took my options upfor seven properties with seven owners, any big developments would be doomed. There has alwasy been big developers interested in our property, council had all this information. The first offer rejected 60 years ago was for a golf clinic.
A number of developments are rejected by council, even a satellite village 380 hectares and all a development by proven developers at Fernvale, rejected. The last to be rejected was a 15 block subdivision in Kielvale village by our present councillors, except Kimberley. She has shown already she will support the numbers, the land zoned village for 50 years was a important part of the expansion of East Kielvale, sewerage mention, all this information available to councillors. But they ignored it, so it ended at the Land and Environment Court, where they quickly over- turned council’s decision at rate payers expense. Now I asked “Phillip O’Neill May 22” who should be paying for this cost?
The main reason for objecting, was the septic trenches, part of the new proposed subdivision, land and house package worth $1.8million.
Two developers were keen to inspect our property last Sept/Oct. I said, you will be wasting my time and yours, we have a hostile council, taking East Kielvale off — the list proves that.
A neighbour said to me, ‘I am glad no one has touched your property.’
I am sure they would have made a mess of it. Present councillors still expanding west of Murwillumbah, traffic can be backed up from JH Williams, BP to top of Wollumbin St, if councillors want to go west, a proper ring road is required and its over due. As it is, all councillors are responsible for creating a super mess.
For the East Kielvale development
to happen, we need a tunnel at Condong range, not at sea level. Cane growers would also benefit , we all would benefit. I would like to see a quick access to the motor way, and a pier along our coast, like Blackpool and Brighton in UK. A big developer needs to make it happen. There is no shortage of them whith land like East Kielvale.
Council has never recovered after the state government sacked our council. The list is long, the latest removing East Kielvale off the Tweed Future release area, after all the facts and documents, all ignored by councillors. Tweed Shire Council residential development strategy 1980’s option to expand the boundary of Kielvale represents one of the most logical population expansions, to Palmvale Road and Wardrop Valley Road. It shows great vision and is great reading.
Council councillors all need to go back and start at the 1960’s, they were smart and had foresight, and wereall highly respected. Results spoke for themselves, their decisions weren’t questionable, we had it all, even $420 million in cash.
And now 2024, Tweed Future growth attracted 640 submissions, complaints. 55 years ago with their proven results, council ear marked land at East Kielvale as the best land suitable for a large development and still there is no valid reason why East Kielvale should be removed from Tweed future growth.
I have a little experience in this field. My brother and I brought 80 acres at Ewingsdale $27k, near the tunnel. Paul Hogan mate ended up with it, now all houses.
Ray Nardi, Kielvale
Hastings Point court case
By Yvonne Gardiner
HASTINGS POINT residents and supporters are being urged to turn out in force on June 23 to voice their opposition to a development application (DA) in their 40-year-long battle to stop a development they say will lead to flooding in the village.
The current DA (DA20/0386) for 40 Creek Street seeks to create 11 residential lots and one associated property in the original flow path of Cudgera Creek.
Residents say this land is flood prone and the DA claims the site would need to be built up with 14,500 cubic metres of fill, causing major flooding issues to existing homes on Creek Street and into North Star Caravan Park.
Tweed Shire Council refused the DA in August 2023.
A Land and Environment Court hearing will consider the DA at the site on Monday, June 23, from 10.30am.
Hastings Point Progress Association (HPPA) president Gary Thorpe says it carries significant weight with the Commissioner of the Land and Environment Court to witness the number of concerned residents who turn up to reject this DA.
“This is the 10th DA we have opposed on this site,” he said.
“The Hastings Point community is exhausted from 40 years of trying to protect their families, lives and property from a development which will put those at extreme risk.
“We have successfully fought nine development applications prior to this using local knowledge, the goodwill of experts and the hours, months and years of coordinated argument, all financed on a shoestring by a passionately concerned community.
“There should be no construction on a flood plain.”
Creek Street residents have been fighting the DA application proposed by Walter Elliot Holdings/Palm Lake Works, in its various forms, since 1984.
Richard Gow has witnessed what he says is “the abuse of the site” over 40 years.
His property backs onto the proposed development site.
“We have been fighting this development for 40 years,” Richard said.
“The estuary was illegally dredged and filled to create this lot.
“The only solution to prevent flooding is to re-open the original estuary flow path.”
The HPPA is urging residents to send submissions into Tweed Shire Council against the DA.
“The community has objected to the past nine DAs for this site over a four-decade and multi-generational period, and continues to do so,” Secretary of HPPA
Julie Boyd said.
“The proposed amendments provide no public benefit and will instead cause
major and unwelcome disruption to the amenity of the local community.
“Property is this area is at risk of being uninsureable according to the Insurance Council of Australia and the Climate Council lists us as the most at risk electorate in the country.
“This DA and amendments do nothing to address the key concerns of the community with regard to flooding and stormwater storage and egress.”
Concerns include the removal of trees, disruptive roadworks, and that it is contrary to the Hastings Point development control plan and Tweed Growth Management Strategy.
MAIN PIC: Residents at the site of the proposed development. INSET: The 40 Creek Street site in flood with no fill
THE LEGAL LIGHT!
Are
electronic and autopen signatures legal in Australia?
US President Donald Trump has declared that hundreds of pardons signed by his predecessor Joe Biden are void because they were signed using an autopen, a mechanical device that replicates a signature.
His claim is disputed by many American legal experts, who point out that autopen machines have been used by presidents for decades, mostly to put their signatures to letters to children, but sometimes to official documents when they were away from Washington.
These are not the same as the old-fashioned rubber stamp signature. A sample of the signature has to be entered into an autopen machine which then prints a copy of the recorded signature onto paper.
Trump’s argument is that Biden did not actually sign the pardons himself, and may not even have been aware his signature was being copied and used by his staff.
So, what is the legal situation with autopen, digital and electronic signatures in Australia?
Taylor Kennedy, lawyer at Stacks Law Firm, says under the Commonwealth Electronic Transaction Act 1999, electronic signatures are legal as long as the method used to make the signature identifies the person signing, both parties agree and both acknowledge what they have communicated.
“Identity could be shown by a typed name, personal email confirming it, or use of an online ID verification method,” Ms Kennedy said.
“It would be best to get legal advice on using electronic or digital signatures for use in each circumstance, as while the law generally accepts them as legal, there are exceptions and strict methodology.
“There needs to be clear understanding by both signer and recipient that the method used to sign is acceptable to both parties. There are exemptions under this Commonwealth law, and for official documents it would be best to get legal advice.”
Under the NSW Electronic Transactions Act 2000 and Electronic Transactions Regulation 2017, signatures to official documents usually require a witness to see the person actually sign the document.
“Use of electronic signatures boomed during the Covid lockdowns, but if a document requires a witness, then the witnesses must be able to see clearly the person actually sign the document over audiovisual link. In NSW there are special requirements for witnessing electronic signatures remotely.
“Real wet-ink hand signatures are still required for documents such as powers of attorney, wills, statutory declarations, affidavits, real estate transactions, land titles and court documents.”
Ms Kennedy said autopen signatures are a grey area in Australian law and not defined in legislation, so are best avoided.
“Autopen signatures are highly unlikely to be accepted legally for official documents, particularly where a witness signature is required.”
Museum funding boost
TWEED REGIONAL Museum is set to deliver an ambitious program thanks to significant multi-year funding from Create NSW as well as financial support for a new Museum on Wheels tour.
Through Create NSW’s Arts and Cultural Funding Program, the Museum has been awarded $185, 000 per year in the four-year program round, in recognition of its strong track record of dynamic programming and forward-focused vision.
The museum was also successful in securing a further $98,600 from Create NSW Cultural Access program fund, for its new innovative mobile exhibition Connected: signal to the stars, currently in development. The support will enable the mnuseum to continue offering the community and visitors award winning exhibitions, innovative public programming and meaningful opportunities for participation across the region.
Museum director Molly Green said the funding streams would allow the museum to further develop its reputation as an organisation that challenges traditional museology and provides exceptional experiences for regional audiences.
“This investment supports our commitment to access, inclusion and truth-telling,” Ms Green said.
“We’re proud to present a forward program that celebrates the diversity of our community and the unique stories of this place we are so proud to call home.”
The museum’s new program, Future Focus: Tweed Regional Museum’s program for access, connection and cultural leadership, was assessed under Create NSW criteria designed to prioritise artistic and cultural leadership, diversity, sustainability and career development in the sector.
The program will include new exhibitions, expanded education and outreach
initiatives, and continued support for regional artists, researchers and community storytellers.
Council’s Director Sustainable Communities and Environment Naomi Searle said the funding was a vote of confidence in the museum’s direction.
“This support ensures we can deliver a museum program that is bold, inclusive and responsive to our community,” Ms Searle said.
Visit: museum.tweed.nsw.gov.au
Marine rescues down
By Jo Kennett
MARINE RESCUE NSW volunteers experienced reduced demand in May, with unfavourable boating weather leading to fewer boaters heading out on the water and requiring assistance.
There were 21 search and rescue missions in the Northern Rivers, including nine emergency responses with 40 people safely returned to shore across all seven units — Point Danger, Brunswick, Cape Byron, Ballina, Evans Head, Iluka Yamba and Wooli.
The Tweed River is the busiest place for boaters, and the number of search and rescue missions reflected that, with Point Danger volunteers responding to ten emergences, Ballina to four and Iluka Yamba to three.
Volunteer crews responded to 12 capsized vessels in NSW in May, while 10 per cent of missions were to assist grounded
vessels, with the NSW Marine Rescue boss saying “boaters must pay close attention to tides, conditions, and navigation markers to avoid grounding their vessel and potentially finding themselves in a life-threatening situation.”
“That is exactly what we want to see at Marine Rescue NSW — as few rescues as possible, with boaters not endangering themselves or others for a day on the water,” Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell said.
After completing 369 rescues in April, Marine Rescue NSW volunteers across the state performed 202 search and rescue missions last month, including 65 emergency responses, safely returning 406 people to shore.
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With numerous hazardous surf warnings issued across the state last month, the Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner is urging boaters to continue to heed the warnings.
AtalkonChristianScience
“Your life is not worth a fish or a day on the water,” he said.
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“Offshore conditions have been unfavourable, and boaters should be commended for not going out.
“Boaters need to accept and respect the conditions — the sea shows no mercy. Before heading out, always check the weather and conditions, and continue to monitor them.
Marine Rescue NSW volunteers kept watch over almost 12,000 people on board Logged On vessels last month, with radio operators managing 13,626 radio calls, including two maydays, with authorities urging boaters to take a minute to log on with the Marine Rescue NSW app or on VHF Channel 16, to protect lives.
The Tweed Regional Museum Team (left to right) Front Marijke Collins, Molly Green, Nathan Firth. Back Laurel Collins, Kalindi Hopping, Erika Taylor.
Tweed Border Force raids
By Jo Kennett
AUSTRALIAN BORDER Force
(ABF) officers have found potential exploitation of migrant workers in up to a third of hospitality businesses targeted in the Northern Rivers and South East Queensland as part of a national operation.
ABF Sponsor Monitoring Unit officers (SMU) visited restaurants, cafes and food outlets in holiday hubs including Tweed Heads, Byron Bay, Ballina, Mullumbimby and the Gold Coast, to “educate businesses and prevent exploitation of migrant workers.”
Of the businesses visited by the end of May, potential concerns have been identified in up to one-third of them.
ABF says that concerns relate to treatment of migrant workers, including poor rostering and record-keeping practices, as well as possible unlawful pay deductions and wage underpayments.
Officers are now considering responses, including those under strengthened powers and tougher penalties introduced on July 1, 2024 to deter employers from using a person’s immigration status to exploit them in the workplace.
The visits are part of a national operation to educate employers, prevent exploitation of migrant workers and assist those who need help.
The public should expect to see more officers out and about in coming months as the operation continues across the region.
More broadly, over the next six months, further hospitality businesses across all states and territories will be visited as part of this intelligence-led operation.
More than 100 locations are scheduled for visits, with a strong focus on regional Australia.
ABF has identified similar suspected instances of illegal exploitation in the hospitality industry in other states and territories.
SMU National Superintendent, Jason Boyd, said the regional operation aims to support local communities and ensure fair treatment of all workers.
“Our role is to make sure all sponsored workers – regardless of where they’re from – are treated fairly and lawfully,” Superintendent Boyd said.
“In regional towns, community and fairness matter. There’s no tolerance for poor practices like forcing workers to repay visa costs or withholding wages. Locals wouldn’t tolerate it and neither do we.”
ABF said that during these regional activities, members of the public noted the highly visible ABF presence in the well-known tourist precincts.
Many onlookers and business owners expressed support for the operation — noting the importance of protecting vulnerable workers in the community.
The public should expect to see more officers out and about in coming months as the operation continues across the region.
Superintendent Boyd said the oper-
ation is making use of new enforcement powers to ensure sponsorship obligations are being met and that migrant workers are not being taken advantage of.
“This is the largest nationally coordinated SMU operation in history and these new powers give us stronger tools to deal with employers doing the wrong thing – and to support workers in regional communities who may not feel they have a voice,” he said.
“If you’re hiring foreign workers, it’s about doing the right thing by the people who make your café or restaurant a success.
“Migrant workers have the same work conditions, rights and protections as Australian citizens.”
Those who do the wrong thing face heavy penalties for employing and referring illegal workers, or exploiting migrant workers. Potential penalties include infringements, civil prosecution or being publicly declared a ‘prohibited employer’.
It is not known whether the ABF have plans to target any other industries apart from the hospitality sector.
The ABF is asking anyone with information relating to potential immigration offences and the exploitation of migrant workers or any suspicious activity to contact Home Affairs and make a report online at Border Watch.
“If it doesn’t feel right, flag it.” Reports can be made anonymously on the Border Watch website: www.abf.gov.au/about-us/what-wedo/borderwatch
ABF officers in Byron Bay
Tweed hospitals the best
By Jo Kennett
EMERGENCY DEPARTMENTS in hospitals across Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) provided high-quality care through the first quarter of 2025, amid sustained high demand, with Murwillumbah and Tweed Valley hospitals up there with the best.
The latest Bureau of Health Information Healthcare Quarterly Report (January – March 2025) shows 56,656 patient attendances were recorded in NNSWLHD Emergency Departments (EDs) during the January to March quarter.
While this represents a drop of 2,153 attendances, or 3.7 per cent, compared with the same period in 2024, it was the fourth busiest quarter ever for the district.
Throughout the first quarter of 2025, there were 6,716 presentations by patients with an imminently life-threatening condition (triage category 2) – the second-highest result on record for the district.
The majority of patients across NNSWLHD started treatment on time (72.9 per cent), an improvement of 1.8 percentage points compared with the same period in 2024, and better than the NSW average (67.0 per cent).
Tweed Valley Hospital
The wonderful staff at the Tweed Valley Hos pital (TVH) have helped to make it one of the best in the state for its size.
TVH continues to be the busiest hospital in Northern NSW, with 14,734 attendances in the quarter, a slight increase of 66 patients or 0.4 per cent compared with the same period last year. This was the second busiest quarter ever for the hospital following the record set in the December 2024 quarter (15,148 attendances).
Nearly 3,000 (2,998) patients arrived at TVH via ambulance, an increase of 226 patients or up 8.2 per cent compared to the same quarter in 2024, with 82.3 per cent
of these patients transferred to ED staff within the 30-minute benchmark.
The majority of TVH patients (80.8 per cent) started their treatment on time, the best results of any comparable-sized hospital in NSW and higher than the average (61.7 per cent) for hospitals of a similar size in NSW. Of those patients treated in the ED who did not require admission or transfer to another hospital, eight in 10 patients (80.8 per cent) were discharged within four hours of arrival.
Murwillumbah District Hospital It may be one of the smaller hospitals in our district but Murwillumbah punches way above its weight in terms of excellence of care, thanks to the wonderful staff.
Murwillumbah had 4,847 ED attendances during the quarter.
More than eight in 10 (85.4 per cent) patients started their treatment on time, while of those patients treated in the ED who did not require admission or transfer to another hospital, 89.5 per cent were discharged within four hours of arriving. Almost all patients (96.6 per cent) who arrived by ambulance were transferred from ambulance to ED staff within the 30-minute benchmark.
The NNSWLHD thanked their “highly skilled and dedicated staff for their continued commit-
Homelessness appeal
By Andia Cally
AS OVERNIGHT temperatures in the Northern Rivers drop to single digits, local charity
Dharma Care has launched its Songs for Shelter: Winter Warmer campaign; an urgent appeal to raise $50,000 for frontline homelessness services in Byron and Tweed Shires.
Funds raised will support four vital community organisations: Pottsville Beach Neighbourhood Centre, Murwillumbah Community Centre, Fred’s Place Tweed Heads, and the Byron Bay Community Centre. These centres, which receive little or no consistent government funding, rely heavily on community donations to deliver essential outreach services.
With homelessness escalating faster in Byron and Tweed than anywhere else in NSW, the region is in crisis. Emergency shelters are full, and support services are stretched beyond capacity. “This isn’t just a housing issue, it’s a community emergency,” says Letechia Lucas of Pottsville Beach Neighbourhood Centre. “We’re seeing older residents, single mums, and full-time workers sleeping in cars.”
Songs for Shelter gives donors a chance to make a difference in a unique way: by contributing financially and nominating a song that evokes warmth and safety. Each donation adds a track to the “Songs for Shelter” Spotify playlist, creating a powerful soundtrack of hope and community.
While Dharma Care’s annual in-person Winter Warmer fundraiser was postponed this year due to illness, the online campaign continues. Over the past two years, this initiative has raised $118,555 for people experiencing homelessness. “Unfortunately, homelessness doesn’t pause,” says Darren Sutton, Dharma Care’s Marketing Manager. “And neither will we.”
For just $25 your online donation can buy a hot meal, a $50 contribution provides clothing and blankets, $100 funds a sleeping bag or
tent, and $200 supports the essential needs of a family.
All donations are tax-deductible. To support the campaign, visit the Dharma Care website, choose your donation, nominate your feel-good song, and share the playlist with others. “Every song offers warmth. Every dollar provides dignity. Together, we can be the shelter someone needs,” Darren adds.
The campaign runs through until the end of July 2025.
To donate and select your song visit https:// dharmacare.org.au/songs-for-shelter-winterwarmer
Tweed Valley Hospital nurses
Letechia Lucas - PBNC Assisted Referral and Material Aid Worker
Police long weekend sting call out
By Jo Kennett
TWEED BYRON Police did thousands of random breath tests over the King’s Birthday long weekend, with 25 drivers copping thousands in fines and losing their license automatically for drink driving or for having tested positive to drugs.
Operation King’s Birthday Long Weekend 2025, a statewide traffic operation, started at 12am on Friday, June 6 and concluded at 11.59pm on Monday, June 9.
Double demerit points were in force for the duration of the operation for speeding, mobile phone, seatbelt, and motorcycle helmet offences.
The Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, together with local police, patrolled roads across the state, targeting dangerous driving behaviour and risks on the roads – with the aim of preventing injury and death.
During the period, police saw a concerning number of dangerous driving incidents, including excessive speed, high-range drink-driving, and reckless driving.
In the Tweed Byron Police District there were 52 speed infringements and eight seat belt/ helmet offences.
Two people were caught using their mobile phones while driving, 100 were fined for other driving offences.
Police conducted 4,267 breath tests in our area with 11 charged with drink driving and 14 testing positive to drug-driving, both of which
have a minimum licence suspension period of three months (six for drug driving) and a minimum fine of $2,200.
Police issued 4,032 speed infringements across the state, conducted 202,762 breath tests with 275 people charged with drink-driving, 655 positive roadside drug detections after 9,551 random drug tests conducted, and attended 287 major crashes, resulting in 75 people being injured.
Three people including a motorcycle rider died on NSW roads over the period, the same number during the operation last year.
There were 399 mobile phone infringements, 221 seatbelt infringements and 6,665 other infringements issued to drivers.
Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner David Driver, acknowledged the majority of drivers over this long weekend did abide by the road rules but there remains a group of road users that continue to break the law and this presents a risk to the whole community.
“Over the past few days of the King’s birthday long weekend, we have seen three people lose their lives and 75 people injured on our roads,”
Assistant Commissioner David Driver said.
“Motor vehicle crashes are preventable, however when they occur lives can be lost, and others permanently changed.
“I want to really reiterate the message that driving is a high-risk activity, and all road users need to drive their vehicle with care and attention, and importantly adhere to the road rules.”
By Jo Kennett
THE TWEED Heads Police Citizens Youth Club runs programs to help positively impact local youth and are looking for young basketball players for their 3 x 3 Ballers Cup 2025.
The club is calling on locals to round up a team and sign up for the competition to be held at PCYC Tweed Heads on Saturday, July 12.
This PCYC Tweed Heads NAIDOC Week
AGE CATEGORIES FOR THE COMPETITION ARE
• Adults Male
• Adults Female
• U/16’s Male
• U/16’s Female
• U/13’s Male
• U/13’s Female
Limited Spots!
$150 Per Team (A maximum of 5 players)
event is supporting the “Nations of Origin” 16’s Female and Male Indigenous Bundjalung Representative Basketball Program. The program aims to promote reconciliation across NSW and culminates in the Nations of Origin tournament in Sydney from July 14 to 17 this year. For further event details or to find out how you or your organisation may be able to support, please contact PCYC Tweed Heads on; tweedheads@pcycnsw.org.au or phone (07) 5599 1714
Tweed Byron Police performed thousands of random breath tests over the break.
POLICE BEAT
By Jo Kennett
E-bike seized
TWEED HEADS Police have seized an unregistered electric motorcycle and hit a teen learner rider with thousands of dollars in fines following an investigation into dangerous riding around the state’s border.
About 1pm Sunday, June 8, police attempted to stop an unregistered electric motorcycle at a carwash at the intersection of Kennedy Drive and Ducat Street, Tweed Heads.
During the stop, the rider allegedly attempted to flee from police but Tweed Byron Police officers managed to stop the rider from leaving the area.
The learner rider – a 16-year-old boy – was issued over $3,000 worth of traffic infringements including riding an uninsured and unregistered vehicle.
The electric motorcycle was also seized. Police would like to remind the public that any violation of NSW road rules will be investigated and those found to be breaking these laws will be punished.
Busted at 175 km/h
A RIDER has had his licence suspended, his motorcycle seized and will have to pay an almost $3,000 fine after he was allegedly caught speeding on the Pacific Motorway at Duranbah.
Tweed Police said that at about 5.40pm on June 15, police were patrolling the Duranbah area when they sighted a motorcycle allegedly speeding on the M1 Motorway.
The rider – a 20-year-old man from Upper Coomera – was allegedly riding at 175km/h in a sign posted speed zone of 110km/h.
The 20-year-old was issued a class A motor vehicle infringement for exceeding the speed limit by more than 45km/h and fined $2,959.
The rider also had his licence suspended and police have seized his motorcycle.
Tweed theft arrest
A MAN has been arrested at a Tweed Heads South fast food store and charged with 16 offences following an investigation into alleged thefts at multiple retail stores in the area.
Between Thursday, May 29 and Tuesday, June 10, Tweed Byron Police officers investigated several incidents at retail stores in the Tweed Heads and Banora Point areas.
Police will allege that a man threatened employees while in possession of a metal pole and stole products from a number of shops including clothing, alcohol, cigarettes, and fishing equipment.
Police have been told that the man also allegedly stole a gold chain valued at almost $8,000, and attempted to steal a cash register. Following extensive inquiries, police arrest-
ed a 34-year-old man at a fast-food outlet on Minjungbal Drive, Tweed Heads South, about 1.45pm on Tuesday, June 10.
During a subsequent search of the man, police allegedly located throwing knives and several items believed to have been stolen including alcohol, a mobile phone, and a Bluetooth speaker.
He was taken to Tweed Heads Police Station, where he was charged with 16 offences including shoplifting (11 counts), larceny, attempted larceny, armed with intent to commit an indictable offence, demanding property with menace with intent to steal, and carrying a cutting weapon upon apprehension.
He was refused bail and appeared at Tweed Heads Local Court on Thursday, June 12.
Police confiscated the electric motorbike
Police seized the motorbike after the rider was caught allegedly going 175 km per hour
Breast Cancer Support Group
By Madeleine Murray
HEALING TOGETHER,
a new local breast cancer support group, is inviting members of our community with a diagnosis of breast cancer to a special afternoon tea on Saturday, June 28, at the CWA hall in Murwillumbah.
The event represents the community launch of the group, which came about as an extension of the support provided by the local dragon boat club, Dragons Abreast Wollumbin (DAW).
“We have all benefited so much from the support we have received from DAW, and we wanted to extend this to people who aren’t necessarily able to participate in dragon boating,” organiser Joan Henderson told The Weekly.
“So we have created a group that aims to be a safe and relaxed gathering over a cuppa at a local cafe. We share experiences, information, friendship and support.
“We hope to benefit new survivors by sharing information about resources available, and focussing on self-care. For long-term survivors, we will be sharing our knowledge and experience,
and developing friendships. We would not like to think of anyone going through this journey alone.”
The afternoon tea will feature guest speakers: Gabrielle Gardem, McGrath cancer care nurse-advanced breast cancer; Jennifer McKay, community engagement Breast Screen NSW; Sandy Rogers, founder of Can Assist Tweed; and Sheryl Mohan, specialist bra and prosthesis fitter from New Beginnings.
“Healing Together is an opportunity to give back to people who supported me while I was undergoing treatment,” group member Amanda said.
“It is very important to me to share the feeling of empowerment and control over my health that I gained through dragon boating.”
Dragons Abreast Wollumbin president Anne Bowden said, “I am delighted with the formation of the Healing Together group. I am very proud of our members who have taken this initiative.”
The free afternoon tea for the community launch of the new breast cancer support group Healing Together will be held at 1.30pm on Saturday, June 28, at the CWA Hall, 20 Queen Street, Murwillumbah. Guests are welcome to bring a support person with them. Please reserve your free tickets events.humanitix.com/healing-together to assist with catering.
The regular support group meets at 10am on the third Saturday of each month at the Blonde Baker Cafe, Riverside Drive Tumbulgum. For further information please call Amanda on 0473 552 138.
Statham
Iconic portrait finds its forever home at Tweed Regional Gallery
Tweed Regional Gallery & Margaret Olley Art Centre was abuzz on Saturday night as patrons and members of the community celebrated the Gallery's acquisition of Ben Quilty's awardwinning portrait of Margaret Olley.
Guests were delighted to hear Ben Quilty share stories about his mentor and friend, Margaret Olley. They were also honoured to be the first to see Quilty's 11 still life works featuring flowers from his own garden, in vases gifted to him by Olley.
The portrait will be the centrepiece of 'Painting Life: Margaret Olley and Works from the Collection' on display at the Margaret Olley Art Centre until 31 August 2025.
Ingrid Hedgcock, Director of Tweed Gallery, said that this is a piece that the Gallery had long wanted in its collection.
"The re-creation of Margaret Olley’s studio at the art centre is the ultimate portrait of one of Australia’s
finest painters and now we’ll have the most celebrated literal portrait of the artist to display beside it," she said.
The Gallery was able to acquire the significant portrait through a major public acquisition appeal, spearheaded by the Tweed Regional Gallery Foundation, and with the generosity of many donors.
Finalists announced for Olive Cotton photography award
Tweed Regional Gallery has announced the 65 finalists for the 2025 Olive Cotton Award for Photographic Portraiture. Now in its 20th year, the biennial award celebrates excellence in photographic portraiture and includes a $20,000 major prize.
This year saw a record-breaking 850 entries, highlighting the award’s growing profile as a major event on the Australian photography calendar. Finalists span the country and include strong local representation from the Northern Rivers.
Local artists named as finalists include Adam Bailey, Lisa Sorgini, Craig Tuffin, Joel Benguigui, Paul Blackmore, Elise Derwin and Tajette O’Halloran. The finalist exhibition opens to the public on Saturday 16 August and runs until Sunday 2 November at Tweed Regional Gallery. The winning portrait will be announced at an official opening event on Saturday 30 August.
The judging panel for this year’s award features leading voices in Australian photography and visual arts: Sally McInerney, Glenn Iseger-Pilkington, Angela Connor and Shaune Lakin.
Established in memory of Olive Cotton, a trailblazing Australian photographer, the award is generously funded by her family.
Bookings for the award opening event on 30 August open Friday 18 July. To view the full list of finalists and learn more about the exhibition, visit: gallery.tweed.nsw.gov.au/olive-cotton-award
Only 1 week left! Apply for a 2025 Community Grant
Local community groups and not-for-profit organisations have until Sunday 29 June to apply for funding through Tweed Shire Council’s 2025 Community Grants Program.
Grants of up to $5,000 are available for grassroots projects that boost community wellbeing, promote inclusion, reduce homelessness and increase social connection.
For details and to apply, visit: yoursaytweed.com.au/communitygrants
Upcoming ePayment and Property Services Outage
Tweed Shire Council’s ePayment and Property Services portal will be unavailable from 4 pm Sunday 29 June to Tuesday 1 July due to system updates.
Please note: Section 603 certificates (via the online eProperty service) will not be issued until rate levies for 2025–26 have been calculated on Monday 14 July. We recommend not lodging certificate applications between Tuesday 1 July and Friday 18 July.
For alternative payment methods, visit: tweed.nsw.gov.au/ways-to-pay
Nominate a local sustainability champion
Nominations are now open for the 2025 Tweed Sustainability Awards, celebrating locals making a positive impact on the environment.
Run every 2 years by Tweed Shire Council, the awards recognise individuals, schools, businesses and community groups for their efforts in areas like waste reduction, climate action, conservation and sustainable farming.
New for 2025: The Urban Rewilding category –recognising those who are creating wildlife habitat and increasing biodiversity in backyards and urban spaces. Prizes include: eco experiences, home energy and farm assessments, photography packages, and more. One lucky nominee will also win a Tweed Holiday Parks voucher.
Nominations close Sunday 20 July.
Enter at: tweed.nsw.gov.au/sustainabilityawards
Artist Ben Quilty next to a a selection of his paintings, including his award-winning portrait of Margaret Olley which was recently acquired by the Tweed Regional Gallery. Image credit: Kate Holmes.
Tweed Shire Council wishes to acknowledge the Ngandowal and Minyungbal speaking people of the Bundjalung Country, in particular the Goodjinburra, Tul-gi-gin and Moorung – Moobah clans, as being the traditional owners and custodians of the land and waters within the Tweed Shire boundaries. Council also acknowledges and respects the Tweed Aboriginal community’s right to speak for its Country and to care for its traditional Country in accordance with its lore, customs and traditions.
Know someone who deserves a sustainability award? Nominate them today!
Right: Portrait of Joshua Campton
Photograph: Alex Frayne.
Above: I love my dog as much as i-love-you.
Photograph: Lauren Starr.
Attendees at the event. Image credit: Kate Holmes.
Knox Park playground update
Plans are progressing to restore the much-loved playground in Murwillumbah after it was damaged by ex-Cyclone Alfred earlier this year.
Some major components of the playground were beyond repair, so Council is working with the original manufacturer to source replacement equipment.
Parts of the playground remain open, thanks to make-safe works, and the rest will be rebuilt once the new equipment - covered by insurance - arrives (estimated 14+ weeks for equipment to arrive with installation to follow).
In the meantime, the newly revitalised Budd Park is now open to the public. While it’s not a playground, it offers open space and amenities for community enjoyment. Families can also visit the small playground at Rous River Way Park, also in Murwillumbah. We know it’s frustrating and thank community members for your patience as we work to bring the playground back better than ever.
Council meeting agenda
Thursday 19 June 2025
The Council Meeting Agenda for Thursday 19 June 2025 is available on Council's website tweed.nsw.gov.au/councillorsmeetings . The meeting will be held at the Harvard Room, Tweed Heads Administration Building, Brett Street, Tweed Heads commencing at 3.30 pm.
Agenda Reports for consideration
Confirmation of minutes
5.1. Confirmation of minutes of the Ordinary Council
meeting held Thursday 15 May 2025
5.2. Confirmation of minutes of the Ordinary Council meeting held Thursday 5 June 2025
Schedule of outstanding resolutions
8.1. Schedule of Outstanding Resolutions as at 5 June 2025
Mayoral minute
9.1. Mayoral Minute for May 2025
Receipt of petitions
10.1. Receipt of Petitions as at 5 June 2025
Reports from the general manager
12.1. Proposed disposal of Council-owned operational land at Lundberg Drive, South Murwillumbah (Lots 701, 707, 708 in DP1307254 and Lot 2 in DP1316733)
12.2. International River Foundation - River Patrons
Reports from the director planning and regulation
13.1. Development Application DA24/0450 for the use of existing buildings as farm stay accommodation at Lot 4 DP 565754 No. 396 Melaleuca Road, Cudgen
13.2. Development Application DA21/0198 for a staged development for a 79 lot subdivision comprising of 77 residential lots, drainage reserve, residue lot and subdivision works over two (2) stages at Lot 2 DP 1278145 being No. 3-6 Trutes Terrace, Terranora; Lot 753 DP 1291069 being No. 93 Parkes Lane, Terranora; Lot 2 DP 785420 being No. 412 Terranora Road, Terranora; Lot 4 DP 1138338 being No. 512 Terranora Road, Terranora
13.3. Development Application DA24/0569 for a two (2) lot subdivision, multi-dwelling housing and 12 lot strata subdivision in (2) stages (over proposed Lot 15 of DA24/0089) at Lot 169 DP 1075495 & Lot 930 DP 1079118 No. 4-8 Bells Boulevard, Kingscliff
Reports from the director sustainable communities and environment
14.1. TEN000035 TRLC Transfer Station Construction
14.2. Tweed Holiday Parks - Fees and Charges 2026/2027
14.3. Minutes of the Equal Access Advisory Committee Meeting held on Tuesday 11 February 2025
14.4. Animal Rehoming Facility - Right of CarriagewayCondition 90A DA22/0854
Reports from the director engineering
15.1. TEN000025 Supply of Small Site Retail Electricity from 1 July 2025
15.2. Private Application for Road Closure and PurchaseRoad Reserve adjacent to Lot 4 Deposited Plan 621280 (214 McAuleys Road, Terranora)
15.3. Annual Indexation of Infrastructure Contribution Rates
15.4. Dam Safety Management System - Internal Review for 2024
15.5. Unconfirmed Minutes of the Floodplain Management Advisory Committee Meeting held Friday 28 March 2025
15.6. Minutes of the Local Traffic Committee Meeting held Thursday 8 May 2025
15.7. Minutes of the B-Double Routes Agency Advisory Group Meeting held Thursday 8 May 2025
Reports from the director corporate services
16.1. Councillor and Staff Interaction Policy
16.2. Community Strategic Plan 2025-2035; Delivery Program 2025-2029 and Operational Plan 2025-2026 and associated documents – for adoption
16.3. Monthly Investment Report for the Period ending 31 May 2025
16.4. Mayor and Councillors Annual Fees 2025/2026
16.5. Variation of Restriction on User for 16 and 18 Cathedral Court, Kingscliff (Lots 159 and 158 DP1099179)
19.1. NOR - Cr Cherry, Cr Hone, Cr Dennis - NOM - Cr Cherry - Community Representation in Hastings Point Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrade Design
19.2. NOM - Cr Hone - Hastings Point Wastewater Treatment Plant Consultative Committee
19.3. NOM - Cr Dennis - Condemnation of the Use of Aerial Culling for Koalas by the Victorian Government
19.4. NOM - Cr Brinsmead - Share the Dignity Council Cares Program 2025
19.5. NOM - Cr Brinsmead - Plastic Free July
19.6. NOM - Cr Brinsmead - The Great Unwaste
19.7. NOM - Cr Dennis - Change to Workshop Hours
19.8. NOM - Cr Cherry - Greenhills Lodge Future Use
19.9. NOM - Cr Cherry - iWORCS Streetworks Collaboration Tool
19.10. NOM - Cr Owen - Old Bogangar Road Light Spillage
19.11. NOM - Cr Owen - Ourimbah Road
19.12. NOM - Cr Owen - 7-13 Pearl Street Squat is a Risk to Community Health, Safety and Wellbeing
Questions with notice
20.1. QWN - Cr Brinsmead - Tweed Shire Beaches Post TC Alfred
20.2. QWN - Cr Brinsmead - Vegetation Maintenance
20.3. QWN - Cr Brinsmead - DA Processing Times
20.4. QWN - Cr Owen - Flooded Football Pitch
20.5. QWN - Cr Owen - How Much Does Tweed Shire Council Spend on External Consultants?
20.6. QWN - Cr Owen - More Efficient Construction Certificate and Occupation Certificate Processes
The agenda for this meeting, which may also include any late or supplementary reports, will be updated prior to the date of the meeting and is available on Council’s website. It should be noted that confidential items are considered in closed session, which excludes media and public. Also, the minutes of this meeting will be available as soon as practical following the meeting and are unconfirmed until they are formally adopted at the next Council meeting.
Please be aware that meetings are livestreamed, and video recordings will be available on Council’s website following the meeting. A person’s image and/or voice may be broadcast. Attendance at the meeting is to be taken
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The revamped play equipment set to be installed at the park.
Grants for sustainable farming
Council is offering grants of up to $4,000 to help local farmers adopt sustainable practices through its Sustainable Agriculture Small Grants Program. Now in its 7th year, the program supports farmers to implement best practices and foster environmental innovation in agriculture. Funding is available for eligible activities that trial or lead to the adoption of improved farming techniques.
Previous grant recipient, Judy Butler, a thirdgeneration farmer from Doon Doon, used her grant to stabilise a landslip on her property with native trees and shrubs.
“The epicentre of the 2022 flood was here in this valley and the devastation it caused to many other areas changed the landscape so much during that event,” Ms Butler said.
“The creeks have taken new paths and there were numerous landslips that damaged infrastructure and increased sediment loss to the creek. With support from Council, we managed to stabilise this large slip, plant native trees and exclude cattle from the area. “It’s fantastic that Council has been able to assist with technical and financial support to help me address this issue because it’s something that benefits the whole community.”
To view the grant guidelines, previous grant recipients’ projects or to find out more visit: tweed.nsw.gov.au/agriculture or contact the Program Leader – Sustainable Agriculture on 02 6670 2400 for further information.
Applications close 31 July 2025 for the 2025/2026 financial year.
Development application determinations
Notification of development application determinations for the purposes of Section 4.59 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (as amended). Application details
Approved
DA25/0218 - Inground swimming pool
Lot 737 DP 1078611, No. 66 Sugar Glider Drive, Pottsville DA24/0224 - shed with amenities
Lot 4 DP 812393, No. 117 Minnows Road, Fernvale DA24/0519 - Change of use of Tenancy 19 from office to business premises (cosmetic injectables) and use of additional floor area
Lot 3 SP 74283, Unit 3/No. 49-61 Bells Boulevard, Kingscliff
The above development determinations are available for public inspection free of charge at the Planning and Regulation Division, Murwillumbah Civic Centre, during ordinary office hours OR viewed on Council’s DA Tracking site located at datracker.tweed.nsw.gov.au
Get the Tweed Link early
Be one of the first to see all the latest news from Tweed Shire Council each week.
Subscribers to the Tweed Link receive it by email each week on Wednesday mornings, in addition to it appearing in print in the Tweed Valley Weekly on Thursdays. But that’s not all – you can also subscribe to Council job alerts, media releases and a range of e-newsletters and Council facility program alerts. Sign up at tweed.nsw.gov.au/subscribe
WATER WEEK 10 Check when your water meter is read at tweed.nsw.gov.au/meter-reading
Current vacancies
Visit tweed.nsw.gov.au/job-vacancies to view current vacancies. Subscribe to receive Job Vacancy Alerts via email at: tweed.nsw.gov.au/subscribe
02 6670 2400 PO Box 816, Murwillumbah NSW 2484
Beach looking a little wild? Here’s what you need to know
The coast’s been putting on a bit of a show lately, with strong tides and swell reshaping some of our favourite beach spots. You might have noticed steeper dunes, shifted sand, or large debris – it’s all part of nature doing its thing.
While we all love to explore the beach, some areas are a little trickier to navigate right now. Council is asking beachgoers to take care and avoid unstable spots while the area settles and crews are able to work on clean-up and repairs.
Here’s how you can help keep things safe:
• Stick to open beach access points – if it’s fenced or signed, avoid for now.
• Stay clear of sand cliffs – they can be unstable underfoot.
• Keep an eye out for natural hazards – like logs, eroded tracks and fallen trees.
Council’s Director Sustainable Communities and Environment, Naomi Searle said: “We haven’t seen erosion on this scale for decades. The combined effects of continued high tides and large swell following the cyclone have left many beach areas dangerous and unstable.”
Council is working to restore access and commence repairs, but heavy machinery cannot currently operate on many damaged beaches. There is also a lot of debris on the beach and in the water. If you come across something that looks unsafe, report it online or call us on 02 6670 2400.
Notice of intention to dispose of Council-owned land in special circumstances
At its meeting on May 15 2025, Tweed Shire Council resolved to dispose of Council-owned operational land at 39 West End Street in Murwillumbah (Lot 5 in DP1303298) in special circumstances in accordance with Council’s Disposal of Land Policy v1.3. It was unanimously agreed by Councillors to offer a selective tender to those persons within the Tweed Shire that were successful applicants in the NSW Government Reconstruction Authority’s Home Buyback or Home Relocation programs.
Please note that under the provisions of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009, such submissions may be referred to third parties for consideration. Once the submission period is completed, Tweed Shire Council will consider (via a Council Meeting) all duly made submissions before deciding whether to continue with the disposal of the properties. The aerial image shows Lot 5 in DP1303298 at 39 West End Street, Murwillumbah (highlighted in blue). Have your say
Draft Policy on Assistance Animals in Council Places
The Draft Policy on Assistance Animal in Council Places sets out clear and fair rules that support people who use assistance animals in council places. It also makes sure these places stay safe, clean and welcoming for everyone. The draft policy was developed in collaboration with Australian Disability Network, peak disability organisations and community members with lived experience.
Have your say
You’re invited to review the draft policy and provide your feedback by 4 pm, 15 August 2025. You can provide feedback in one of the following ways.
• Online: yoursaytweed.com.au/assistance-animals
• Email: tsc@tweed.nsw.gov.au
• Mail: General Manager, Tweed Shire Council, PO Box 816, Murwillumbah 2484
Council confidentiality policy: On request, any
Development proposal for public comment
We invite you to have your say on the above matter by 4 pm, 16 July 2025. You
The following development application has been received by Tweed Shire Council and may be viewed on Council’s DA tracking site located at datracker.tweed.nsw.gov.au for a period of 14 days from Wednesday 18 June 2025 to Wednesday 2 July 2025. The proposal is not designated development and the Tweed Shire Council is the consent authority. Applicant Location Proposal Application no.
The Trustee For Newton Denny Chapelle Unit Trust Lot 101 DP 1134560; No. 540 Duranbah Road, Duranbah Use of land for agriculture and use of existing structure as an agricultural packing shed
DA25/0083
Any person may, during the period specified above, make a submission in writing to Council in relation to the Development Application. Where a submission is in the form of an objection, then the grounds of objection are required to be specified. Any person may, during the above period, make a written submission to the General Manager of Council. It should also be noted that Council has adopted a policy whereby, on request, any submission including identifying particulars will be made public. Council will give consideration to the "Public Interest" and requests for confidentiality by submitters in determining access to submission letters. However, the provisions of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 - GIPAA may result in confidential submissions being released to an applicant. Please note – requirements regarding Disclosure of Political Gifts and Donations
A disclosure is required to be made in a statement accompanying the relevant development or planning application by a person who makes the application. In addition, a person who makes a written submission either
also make a disclosure if the person has made a reportable political donation. Further information regarding Donations and Gift Disclosure are available on Council’s website at tweed.nsw.gov.au/development-applications
tsc@tweed.nsw.gov.au tweed.nsw.gov.au
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Beach erosion along Tweed’s coast is the worst observed in decades.
Judy Butler, a previous grant recipient, inspects her landslip rehabilitation project, which was supported through the Council’s Sustainable Agriculture Small Grants Program.
WHICH OFF-ROAD RACER AND ADVENTURER BRAD LOVELL HAS BEEN GIVING A WORKOUT IN THE TATTS FINKE DESERT RACE AS HE SEARCHES FOR A THREE-PEAT OF HIS PRODUCTION 4WD WINS. YOU CAN CHECK OUT OUR EXCITING RANGE OF VEHICLES RIGHT NOW AT OUR TWEED HEADS SHOWROOM.
Growing life skills
A NEW partnership between local early intervention youth program RiverTracks and Murwillumbah Community Gardens is transforming lives by providing meaningful, hands-on opportunities for disengaged young people.
Since forming the partnership earlier this year, young participants have gained real-world experience, mentorship and a space to grow.
supportive, non-confrontational environment, giving the young people space to be themselves.
“Some of these kids haven’t been in a classroom for months,” Christopher said.
“While they’re digging or building, it opens up space for honest conversations about what’s going on in their lives.”
by
Purpose One Solution Foundation Mini Psychic Health and Wellbeing Expo Murwillumbah Services Club Saturday 28th June 2025 10am - 3pm
Visit: www.whitelightexpos.com to choose your reader then call 0419 709 661 to pre book your reading.
RiverTracks Program Manager, Christopher Rowland said it’s great to see the young locals getting involved in an initiative that’s not only helping themselves but the wider community too.
“The community garden gives us a base to do the work, but the real goal is psychosocial recovery,” Christopher said.
“We work with young people to build their confidence and re-engage with school or community in a positive way. The gardening and construction tasks are just the vehicle – we meet them where they’re at and walk alongside them.”
Each week, the young people take part in everything from building planter boxes and compost bays to whipper snipping, landscaping and using hand tools – guided by youth workers and skilled tradespeople.
Alongside the practical skills, the program fosters emotional resilience and teamwork in a
Sixteen-year-old Mali is one of many young people whose lives have been turned around through RiverTracks over the past 12 months.
“It has helped me become a decent and more respectful person and taught me how to communicate with people different to me,” Mali said.
“I’ve also learned a lot of trade skills and life skills.”
Murwillumbah Community Gardens president Pamela O’Connor said the volunteering work by the young people has been greatly appreciated.
“The collaboration has been a wonderful experience for the garden team in introducing young people to aspects of food production and basic gardening practices,” Pamela said.
“We hope we can continue to share the space and work together in creating and caring for a wonderful community project.”
Youth and support workers working on site at the Murwillumbah Community Gardens
Woodcrafters open
By Jonathon Howard
TWEED VALLEY Woodcrafters Association (TVWA) will open its doors to the public for its 30th Annual Open Day on Saturday, June 21, offering a unique opportunity to admire and purchase finely crafted wooden creations. Held at the association’s clubhouse, located at Gate 1, Banner Street, the event promises a stunning display of craftsmanship, with around 150 handmade items on show, ranging from intricate trinkets to stunning artistic pieces. On-site parking is available.
Current president Jim Lyttle said the open day is a highlight of the year for both members and the community.
“Members have once again put in thousands of combined hours of craftsmanship to produce another amazing exhibition,” Mr Lyttle told The Weekly.
“I’d like to encourage locals and visitors to come down, browse the pieces and learn more about the woodcrafters — maybe even get involved.”
TVWA has been a fixture of the local creative community for more than 34 years, providing a space where both men and women can explore the art and satisfaction of working with timber. The open day will offer not only the chance to buy one-of-a-kind wooden items, but also to meet the makers, see demonstrations, and gain insight into the tools and techniques behind the craft.
Whether you’re an experienced woodworker, an aspiring hobbyist, or simply a lover of handmade artistry, this event is a must-visit.
Also, this Friday, June 20, the TVWA are hosting an in-house competition, closed to the public, where participating members showcase their skills, using a set size piece of timber to create something unique. Janelle Saffin will visit to present six winning members with a lifetime membership.
Tweed Valley Woodcraft Association Open Day Saturday 21st June 8am- 4pm Murwillumbah Showground (enter via gate Banner Street).
The workshop showcasing some of the local crafts at the upcoming open day
are going to need some sort of performance to level it up. The changes were needed for the Maroons but there is a few positional issues that still concern me. NSW lose Moses and roll Luai back out to partner Cleary. It will be a great game regardless.
I’m very much looking forward to watching the u/19’s origin match at the Sunny Coast on Thursday night. There are some genuine superstars in both teams and a few who will play plenty of NRL.
I’ll highlight a few worth watching.
Ray Puru at fullback is a genuine livewire, Cooper Bai will play Q Cup before the end of the year, Javon Andrews is all class and a huge body at 6 and Bodhi Sharpley is an old school middle who is as tough as a $2 steak - all Titans kids but very big futures. NSW have a star studded team also
with local junior Zane Harrison looking like he will be in the 14 Jersey. Jake Halangahu in the second row is destined for stardom and it wouldn’t surprise me if Cody Hopwood plays NRL by the end of the year. Heamasi Makasini comes with huge wraps and is still at school and Jeziah Funa-Iuta is a powerful back rower.
The Titans got a good result over the Eagles but might be more alarming for Manly how they looked very plain when needing a gettable result.
The Roosters heaped more pain on AOB and the Knights and Katoa continued his rich vein of form for the Dolphins in their demolition of the Cowboys with Bostock bagging four and blowing a fifth.
Saturday should be a cracking day at Piggabeen with the ‘Female festival of footy’ being played. Heaps of junior games going on with over 250 girls from Logan to Grafton playing and the highlight will be the Tweed v Ipswich in Q cup and the Titans v Cowboys in the NRLW which should attract a bumper crowd with some genuine superstars playing.
Cudgen and Bilambil remain unbeaten in the NRRRL and look poised for some success in 2025.
The Cookie Cup was played in great spirits and a great contest at Mullum on the weekend with the Mustangs getting their hands on the memorial trophy for a great human — we miss you Cookie. Rest easy my friend.
See you at the footy.
Quinny
MUSTANGS
Drag Bingo at M|Arts
By Madeleine Murray
DRAG BINGO is back at M|Arts Precinct on Wednesday, June 25.
This time, the theme of the outrageous cab aret is the roaring 20s, and who doesn’t love flappers!
Hosted and created by the ever-sassy But tery Chard, Drag Bingo is not your typical drag show, but a sophisticated blend of com edy, dance and improvisation.
There are real bingo games as well for people who secretly love bingo but are too shy or lazy to go to a real game.
Joining Buttery will be ‘three-legged-beauty’ Natasha St James, who brings her bold, con fident, and stylish performance to the show. With over a decade in the drag scene, she’s a seasoned entertainer.
Returning for another show is Dixie Wrecked, the only drag queen currently performing at The Pink Flamingo on the Gold Coast. These three queens guarantee a night of cheeky banter and unforgettable performances.
California Widow
“After so many people saw my drag online and stopped me at Bastion Lane where I barist by day begging me to do something locally, I knew I couldn’t ignore the call for a fabulous queer night in Murwillumbah,” Buttery Chard told The Weekly.
“So, I created a Drag Bingo night! It’s a classic format for queens to host, but let’s be real –it’s never just about the bingo. It’s about the laughter, the energy, and the unapologetic fabulousness. And when it’s themed? Even better! It transforms the night into a whole new world where everyone can dress up, let loose, and truly escape!”
Guests are encouraged to rustle up their best 1920s glam – think flapper dresses, feathered headbands, and dapper suits – to fully immerse themselves in the best decade of the last century. People went wild in the 20s, recovering
from the horror of WW1, unaware there would be another one soon.
Whether you’re a bingo aficionado or just in it for the sass and sparkle, you’ll have fun. The great prizes are donated by local sponsors Bastion Lane Espresso, Stone and Wood, Wandana Brewing Co. and Birds of Isle.
Drag Bingo Flappers Edition is on Wednesday, June 25, at M|Arts Precinct, Wollumbin St, Murwillumbah. Doors open at 6pm for a 7:30pm show. Food and drinks available at the venue. Tickets are available through Humanitix or @ itsbutterychard.
FRONT: Natasha St James exudes 1920's glamour.
BEHIND: Buttery Chard struts her stuff.
Rusty Pickups live!
By Madeleine Murray
RUSTY PICKUPS, the hot country and folk quintet, have been on a golden run since releasing their first EP in 2023. They’re hitting The Citadel on June 27 supported by Famous Will, from Tyalgum.
The band are mates with Tweed Water Alliance Inc and are donating $2 from every ticket sold. They understand the importance of protecting our groundwater-dependent ecosystems. That’s Wollumbin’s rainforest.
Rusty Pickups packed out the place when they performed in Murwillumbah a couple of years ago, mesmerising the audience with cracking good stories, a belly laugh or two and get-up-and-dance tunes.
Do yourself a favour, catch the live performance. The players’ self-deprecating humour complements their down-home, classic country-folk sound. These folks effortlessly blend splashes of riverboat keys, melodic claw hammer banjo, soaring fiddle, rolling upright bass, and charming acoustic guitar, with classic story-telling vocals and four-part harmonies.
Hailing from the Darling Downs, Rusty Pickups are Michael Cook, Lee Fielding, Ayden
Roberts, Aimee Le Brocque and Waylon Katz. They’ve performed round their old-time microphone at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, Gympie Muster, Neurum Creek Folk Festival, The Long Sunset and more.
On May 27 they released their latest single California Widow, which promptly debuted at #8 on Amrap - Australian Music Radio Airplay Regional Chart nationally, rising to #5 the following week.
“Between seemingly countless Tamworth Country Music Festival sets, camp site sweating and creativity fuelled swearing, we found a fiddle/banjo combo that reeked of a Californian sunset,” Cookie told The Weekly.
“We threw in our own smatterings of hope and despair and rolled it into one great big long stereotype!” he joked.
Every muso’s favourite venue, The Citadel has impressive acoustics, a lush ’30s setting with palm trees and red velvet curtains, licensed bar and curries.
Rusty Pickups is at 7pm, Friday, June 27, at The Citadel, 21 Queen Street, Murwillumbah. Licensed bar. Curries available. Tickets from humanitix.com/rustypickups, or at the door unless sold out.
Big landscapes, little paintings
By Julia Collingwood
GREG JORSS’ exhibition Little Landscapes opens at 6pm June 19 at Art Post Uki, the 60th show at the popular gallery.
There are so many different ways of painting a landscape. Some are painted with painstaking realism, others abstracted, some impressionistic. Some artists paint from photos, some from their imagination, others directly from nature.
Greg paints directly from nature using acrylic paints. Laden with painting paraphernalia he finds a vista that stirs him. Sitting down on the bare earth, enduring biting insects and the discomfort of stones sticking into his backside, Greg balances his canvas on his lap and begins to paint, utterly focused on the beauty before him.
Some paintings Greg completes in a few hours of intense work, others might take multiple trips back to the same spot.
Greg’s paintings aren’t postcard images, they are personal and intimate responses to the vast landscape. They are where the outer natural world merges with Greg’s inner world.
As Greg says, “There is something of a home for me out in nature and the more fully immersed in it for me, the more I feel at home.”
Greg studied art at Queensland College of Art. He has participated in multiple group shows. This is his second solo exhibition.
There is also a 2026 Calendar featuring these paintings for sale at the opening as well as at The Foundry Murwillumbah and other outlets.
Opens 6pm Thursday June 19 at the Uki Post Office. Closes July 30. Opening hours: 7am5pm weekdays, 7.30-12.30pm Saturday and 8am-12.30pm Sunday.
Greg painting a landscape on Byrrill Creek Rd
"Carool, near Simon's house", Acrylic on Canvas
"Cudgen, from Earth Beer carpark", Acrylic on Canvas
By Andia Cally
TWEED RIVER House is hosting a night of vintage glamour, elegance and entertainment with its first-ever Swing and Swoon three-course dinner on Saturday, June 28. Set beneath sparkling chandeliers and ornate pressed metal ceilings, this sumptuous feast for the senses begins at 6pm in the venue’s award-winning dining room. Local maestro Barry Singh conducts the Caldera Chamber Ensemble, a ninepiece orchestra as they perform three live sets between courses.
The music will set the tone for a sophisticated three-course set menu, showcasing the venue’s new winter selection, crafted from the finest local ingredients. Entrée options include roasted celeriac with miso and quince, or Goondiwindi pork collar accompanied by morel mushrooms and pork crumble. For mains, guests can choose between Goulburn River rainbow trout served with warm potato salad and caviar, or dry-aged Northern Rivers Angus boneless short ribs finished with a decadent truffle jus. To conclude, desserts include a rich peanut financier with caramel and chocolate crémeux, or the refined gateaux au lait, infused with wild vanilla and lavender.
Throughout the evening, the ensemble will prove ‘It Don’t Mean a Thing (if it Ain’t Got That Swing)’, reviving the golden age of jazz with timeless tunes like Chattanooga Choo Choo, Puttin’ on the Ritz, La Vie en Rose, Moonlight Serenade, I’ve Got Rhythm by George Gershwin, and a toe-tapping Glenn Miller medley. Get ready to be transported to an era where the music was smooth, the rhythm infectious, and the vibe positively brassy.
“This is a first-time event, and we are thrilled to have the talented Barry Singh and Caldera Chamber perform for an unforgettable evening of ‘Swing and Swoon’ against the backdrop of the elegant dining room,” event organiser and
Tweed River House owner, Gregory Lording told the Weekly.
Tickets are $185 per person, which includes three music performances and a full threecourse dinner with bread. Drinks are additional, and selections will be available from the venue’s curated wine and cocktail list.
Hosted at the Chef Hat–awarded Tweed River House, this one-night-only celebration of vintage charm, world-class swing, and exceptional regional cuisine promises an unforgettable evening. With limited seating available, early booking is highly recommended.
Saturday June 28 | 6pm | $185pp | Bookings Essential. Book now at tweedriverhouse.com.au or call (02) 6672 5269.
The stage is set at the Tweed River House for a night of Swing & Swooning
Our Kids grants open
OUR KIDS, the charity that raises funds to help support children with special needs and chronic illness in the Northern Rivers, is inviting members of the community and health professionals to apply for one of its annual grants. Applications for the annual Our Kids Community Grants are now open, with funding packages of up to $2,000 available for eligible applicants.
Our Kids is thrilled to announce the James Frizelle Charitable Foundation has generously donated $25,000 to support this initiative - a wonderful way to assist children in our region. The grants are designed for families and community groups caring for local children with special needs to purchase equipment and therapeutic goods not covered by the NDIS. Grants of up to $2,000 are available for: parents and guardians in the Northern Rivers
region caring for children aged 17 years and under with special needs; health professionals and children’s community health organisations; community groups supporting children living with special needs or chronic illness.
Our Kids Fundraising Coordinator Rebekka Battista encouraged those in need to apply for funding support.
“The Our Kids Community Grants are a beautiful way to give back to families and children outside of hospital,” Ms Battista said.
“We encourage families and groups caring for children with special needs in the Northern Rivers to apply for equipment or therapeutic assistance outside what is funded through NDIS.
“Thank you to James Frizelle Charitable Foundation for supporting the Our Kids Community Grant Project.”
20kg
(7)
Look slyly (4)
Inexpert (10)
Funeral rite (7)
Place for bees (4)
Emissary (9)
Sydney landmark,House (5)
Respect (6)
Finger joint (7)
Executive body of government (7)
Cards held (4)
Common duck (7)
Disturb greatly (7)
Loud wailing cry (4)
Tactful (10)
Highway (4)
Season’s yield of grapes (7)
typically brown (4)
Wanderer (7)
Condiment (7)
Swallow (6)
Turf out (5)
Skilled army mechanic (9)
66 Cease (4)
67 Clairvoyant (7)
68 Pain (8)
70 Electronic devices that increase sound (10)
71 Plant of the mallow family (4)
72 Car’s starter mechanism (8)
73 Faithful (4)
74 A plane figure with three or more sides (7)
75 Large flightless bird (7)
76 Paid attention (8)
DOWN
2 Optional course (8)
3 Small long-tailed parrot (8)
4 Unsullied (5)
5 Someone who makes frocks (10)
6 Network of blood vessels, lymph or nerves (6)
7 Time of the year (6)
8 Spectacular; shortlived (8)
9 Eternity (10)
14 Knight’s attendant
(6) 16 Adverse fate (4)
20 Visitor (5)
22 Develop (6)
24 Solar energy provider (3)
26 A state of being held against will (9)
28 Vague, equivocal (9)
29 Flower (5)
31 Discomfit (5)
32 Mournful song (5)
33 Adroit move (9)
34 Disadvantage, disservice (9)
36 Circular (5)
39 Aqualung (5) 41 Cluster of bees (5)
42 Fool (5)
44 Earth (5)
46 Skewer (6)
48 Snag (10)
50 Entice (5)
52 Below (10) 54 Wise bird (3)
56 Expiation (6)
57 Response (8)
59 Sicilian volcano (4)
60 Disturb the composure of (8)
61 Annotation at the bottom of a page (8)
64 Coloured eye parts (6)
65 Within the house (6)
69 Long, elaborate speech (5)
FEATURED BUSINESS
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At iDesignIT, our team continues to help teachers build confidence with technology, enabling schools to provide their students with more learning opportunities. I have over 20 years of IT experience, primarily within the education sector. Since starting iDesignIT in 2014, we’ve worked with more than 85 schools to move forward with technology. Now, with ElderCareTech, I am bringing this same experience to support seniors in a way that empowers them to embrace technology with confidence.
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Tweed Valley
CLASSIFIEDS
For Sale
CAMPERVAN FOR SALE: IVECO DAILY 1997 Turbo Diesel, fully off grid Solar/Gas, Ensuite, New 12v Fridge, 4x new batteries recently serviced excellent condition. NSW Rego, ready to go. $37,500, will consider swap/trade classic custom car. Ph: 0409 209 246
Lotus Freelander On Site, Luxury van not registrable. Full working kitchen, shower, toilet, sitting room, double bed, full upright fridge, all modern cons, stand alone gas. Suits builder, student, teenage retreat, on site van. As new inside $32,500. Ph: 0428 249 483
FOR SALE: Weber Q Family BBQ & cover, both are clean in and out, very good condition. Includes manual cookbook and additional flat top griddle tray, 6 full foil convection trays. Gas bottle needs replacement. $200. Phone: 0459 098 873
4x FORD 12 Sloters (14” x 6”) Suit early 1960-1970 Fords Good condition. Not Suitable for GT’s. $800 Phone:
FOR SALE: Jigsaw Puzzles in very good condition. Complete and boxed. 15 x WASGIJ Series and 17 x assorted. Selling the lot only. Phone: 0459 098 873
LES FARRELL
Breeder of Finches,
Public Notice
MONTHLY MEETING
The Lions Club of Cabarita Beach / Pottsville Beach welcomes you. Our monthly meeting is held on the 2nd Wednesday of each month. Our social dinner is held on the 4th Wednesday of each month. Please contact President Bill Brodie on 0411 406 143.
Weekly In Memoriam
Funeral Notice
In Loving Memory of
Ian David Cormack
Passed away peacefully on Monday 9th June 2025 at the Tweed Valley Hospital. Late of Banora Point and formerly Currumbin Valley. Aged 93 years.
Beloved husband of Joan (dec).
Much loved father and father-in-law of Debbie & Craig Welsh, Heather (dec) & Geoff Argus and Robyn Paine.
Cherished Pop of Brendan (dec), Adam, Cien, Tahlia and Abbey, and his great grandchildren Jovie, Bella and Gracie Joan. In keeping with Ian’s wishes a private cremation will be held.
The family would like to thank the Medical staff at the Tweed Valley Hospital and the Darlington Nursing Home, Banora Point for their care of Ian.
Tweed Heads Ph: (07) 5599 1500
Funeral Notice
Passed away on 3rd June 2025, late of Tweed Heads formerly of Bilinga. Aged 93 years.
Beloved husband of Narelle (deceased), loved father of Peter and grandfather to Memphis. Loving companion to Aenid Pettingill (deceased).
Family and friends are invited to attend a funeral service for Roger to be held at the Tweed Heads Crematorium Chapel,Kirkwood Road Tweed Heads on Wednesday 25th June 2025 at 11:30am.
Tweed Heads Ph: (07) 5599 1500
Mary Judith Thackray ‘Judy’
nee’ Burgess
Late of Murwillumbah.
Passed away peacefully on Wednesday 11th June 2025. Aged 89 Years.
Dearly loved wife of Ian (dec’d).
Loved mother of Mary-Ann, John, Peter, Megan and Janelle (dec’d).
Cherished nanna of Matthew, Jourdan and Tylea.
Loving Great Nanna of Charles.
Loved sister of Patricia, Robert (Bob) and sister-in-law of Michael.
Family and friends are warmly invited to attend Judy’s Requiem Mass to be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Murwillumbah on Saturday 21st June 2025 at 10:00am.
Followed by a Burial at Murwillumbah Lawn Cemetery, Tree Street. In lieu of owers, donations to Wedgetail Retreat would be appreciated. A donation box will be available at the Church.
When tomorrow starts without me, And I’m not there to see; If the sun should rise and find your eyes
All filled with tears for me; I know how much you love me, As much as I love you, And each time that you think of me, I know you’ll miss me too
So when tomorrow starts without me, Don’t think we’re far apart, For every time you think of me, I’m right here, in your heart. ~ David Romano
Family fun day
By Andia Cally
GUNTER’S FLAMMKUCHEN, with the support of 12 local families, is proud to present the first-ever Family Fun Day and Lantern Parade on Saturday, June 28 from 3-8pm at Stokers Hall, in celebration of the winter solstice. This free community event is packed with activities for all ages, with live music from talented local performers, headlined by the incredible Loren Jemahli. Purchase delicious food, including homemade cakes, warming chai, and Gunter’s legendary Flammkuchen (German-style wood-fired pizza, as the kids delight in face painting, a lantern-making workshop, and a lantern parade along the scenic rail trail. “The idea is to bring the community together for a day of music, connection and great food,” says organiser and local caterer Gunter Ehmann.
Gunter is the driving force behind well-loved events like Uki’s Picnic in the Park, Pizza and Live Tunes at Hosanna Farmstay and Pizza Friyeah at Stokers Post Office. Since launching Gunter’s Flammkuchen in 2015, he’s grown his passion into GE Catering Co Pty Ltd, offering
mobile wood-fired pizza, international cuisine, and event catering. He also runs local favourite Links Pizza, acquired in 2018.
This event is community run, with families donating baked goods and volunteering on the day.
While the traditional winter bonfire isn’t permitted indoors, the evening with be aglow with handmade lanterns, warm food, and heartfelt connection. This marks a new beginning for Stokers Hall, with Gunter planning more events to bring this community connection hub out of hibernation.
“I hope the sun shines on us and that this becomes an annual tradition,” says Gunter.
3-5pm: Lantern-making workshop at Stokers Hall, making and decoration materials provided, donations welcome Sunset: Lantern parade departs from the Stokers Siding Rail Trail entrance, 30 to 40 minutes return walk
6-8pm: Return to the hall for more food, live music and dancing.
For updates on local performers and event info visit Gunter’s Flammkuchen on Facebook
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Mustangs win Cup
By Jo Kennett
THE MURWILLUMBAH Mustangs have taken out the Cookie Cup against Mullumbimby in honour of Grant Cook, who played for both teams and tragically passed away in 2016.
The much-loved father of two was originally from Mullum but was playing for the Mustangs when he died. His father was at Mullum for the competition on Sunday.
“The game is always played in really good spirits to commemorate Cookie. It was a really good day,” Mustangs president Nigel Loft said.
The Mustang Mares had a 4-4 draw in the Ladies League Tag.
“Mullum led for nearly the whole game and our girls scored out wide with less than two minutes to go,” Nigel said. “The girls are going really well this year.”
In a top of the Under 18s table clash the Mustangs lost 16-0.
“It was probably the best game of the day,” Nigel said. “Neither side had lost a game. It was a really good quality game, it was just that we dropped a bit of ball and they capitalised on it. They played each other last year in the Under 16s finals. They are both really good sides.”
The Mustangs reggies won 34-16.
“They were in control the whole game and they are going really well,” the club president said. “They are a fairly young side and Mullum had a lot of big guys but they defended really well. Our defence won us the game.”
Murwillumbah won their first grade clash 26-18.
“We were leading 20-0 at one stage, not dominating but definitely the better side but in the last 15 minutes they tried a few things and scored some points but luckily the boys held off.”
Nigel said the team is enjoying the coaching style of Arwin Marcus, who coached Bilambil last year.
“He is coaching the Under 18s at the Northern Rivers Titans in the Andrew Johns Cup,” Nigel said. “He’s a good guy and has fitted in really well at the club. We have some home games and a bit of dry weather so it should be good.”
The Tweed Coast Raiders lost to Evans Heads 24-10 in first grade, won the reggies 30-10 and lost the LLT 8-0.
Cudgen beat Casino 26-24 in a “nail-biter” in first grade, the reggies lost 28-14. Under 18s won 36-8.
The Tweed Seagulls beat Byron 32-12, lost in the reggies and Under 18s but won the women’s tackle 24-0.
Travel Vaccines
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INTRODUCING OUR DOCTORS
• Dr Stephen Palin
• Dr David Shaw
• Dr Irfan Tariq
• Dr Ileana Velcea
• Dr Theary Thou
• Dr Mazi Agah
• Dr Hugh Dearnley
• Dr Wai Aung
• Dr Kiran Sodha
• Dr Vandana Gopinath
• Dr Audris Wong (Specialist Obstetrician & Gynaecologist)
A Mustangs Mare in flight. Photos by Sarah
Gunter Ehmann of Gunter's Flammkuchen fame delivers great food and great events. BACKGROUND: One of Gunter's previous events at Hosanna Farmstay
Agent of the week Real Estate Estate
By Jo Kennett
THIS EDITION’S Agent of the Week is Adrianna Jenkins from Northern Rivers Property Group.
As a Murwillumbah local, Adrianna Jenkins has a real appreciation for the Tweed Valley’s rich history, its unique architecture and houses and the people who call it home.
We caught up with Adrianna to find out more.
Before you were a real estate agent what was the most interesting/unusual job you had?
Previously I actually used to work at a local chemist which was a great training ground in exceptional customer service and sales.
Why did you decide to get into real estate?
I’ve always had an interest in real estate because I love interesting architecture and the history of some buildings and the Northern Rivers area has both in spades!
What are the biggest challenges of the job?
Probably juggling the responsibilities of providing the best service to my vendors as well as getting the best possible price available in the marketplace for
their home together with building trust and rapport with buyers who will undoubtedly become future vendors. It’s a delicate balance.
Who are you seeing buying properties at the moment and where are they mostly coming from?
There is always an interesting and varied mix in the Northern Rivers with many older acreage vendors looking to downsize but stay in the local area. There are always buyers from Sydney, Melbourne and above the Queensland border looking for a better lifestyle as well, which is obviously provided here in the stunning Northern Rivers with its great community, an abundance of national parks and some of the best beaches in the country.
What is your best advice to people thinking of putting their properties on the market?
Look at your property through a potential buyer’s eyes and begin to get those little jobs done that you have been putting off. Often when buyers see a small issue they think it is bigger than it actually is so get those barriers fixed before going to market. Often it’s lots of little things fixed that can get you a better sale price.
Open Homes
Saturday, June 21
First National Murwillumbah
• 46 Barlee Drive, Fernvale,9.30–10am
• 93 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah, 9.30–10am
• 4 Hope Street, Bray Park,10–10.30am
• 53 Coral Fern Circuit, Murwillumbah,11–12pm Tate Brownlee Real Estate
• 51 Kingscliff Street, Kingscliff, 9–9.30am
• 39/87-111 Greenway Drive, Banora Point, 9–9.30am
• 10 Cook Crescent, Tweed Heads South, 9–9.30am
We understand
We understand
We understand that
Our
Our
What’s the biggest changes across the market over the past 12 months?
Well obviously the downward change in the local interest rates is a definite driver in the market with more buyers looking at an increased budget and ability to stretch a bit further for their perfect property which of course is great news for our vendors who are achieving better prices now than 12 months ago.
How can people get a foot in the door on the property ladder?
Obviously getting into the property market requires an achievable budget. Get in as soon as you can even if it is not your dream home initially. Go for something a bit smaller or that can be value added by you to realise a return as the market rises in the next couple of years and then upgrade if you can.
Anything else you want to add?
With recent government incentive announcements for first home buyers and falling interest rates there are lots more buyers in the market than at the start of the year, so if you were thinking about selling, get a free market appraisal now and some sound advice on what you can do to achieve a great sale result to set you up for your next move.
Our Hot Property this week is a rural oasis on the fringe of lovely Stokers Siding village, with tranquil mountain views and a charming studio.
“Rosewood”, at 87 Stokers Road, is a double brick five bedroom home with high ceilings, slate floors and split level living areas set on 11.3 acres.
You can take in the sunset over the mountains as you soak in the magnesium pool with a sundowner.
There are fruit trees including a variety of citrus, blueberries and finger limes.
The large self contained studio/office is set away from the main home and could be used as an artists studio, for rental income or for additional space for the family.
It has a sealed driveway, fully fenced paddocks for livestock, a huge shed/garage/workshop area, plenty of rainwater storage and a spring fed dam on a cleared paddock below the property.
“Rosewood” is for sale with Paul and Adrianna at Northern Rivers Property Group with a price guide of $1,750,000 to $1,850,000.
DJ Stringer
• 802/106 Pacific Pde, Bilinga, 9–9.30am
• 1086/18-20 Stuart St, Tweed Heads, 9–9.30am
• 2134/18-20 Stuart St, Tweed Heads, 9.30–10am
• 38 Bolton St, Kirra,10–10.30am
• 17/7-9 Parry St, Tweed Heads South, 10–10.30am
• 344/6-8 Stuart St, Tweed Heads, 10.30–11am
• 24 Blue Waters Cres, Tweed Heads West, 11–11.30am
This remarkable 4,433m2 (approx.) direct riverfront property is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to secure a prestigious address in one of the most sought-after coastal locations. Perfectly positioned with access to Kingscliff, Fingal Beaches, Tweed and Gold Coast. Inspect 11:30am - 12:30pm on Saturday.
• Waterfront deep water access & private boat ramp - room for pontoon • STCA
• DA approved luxury home plans, ready to build your dream luxury residence
• Separate renovated studio rooms with ensuite offering versatile options • STCA
• New large car & boat garage shed + storage
• Mixed use zoning - Ideal potential for offices, professional, SOHO or more • STCA
AUCTION ON SITE
Saturday 19th July at 1:00pm Auction registration from 12pm
ESCAPE TO PARADISE
- with postcard views
Perched on the top penthouse (8th) level of this premier oceanfront establishment, you will experience a kaleidoscope of ocean views that span the entire coastline from the lights of Surfers Paradise right down to the peeling point breaks of Snapper Rocks.
• Cool tiled living w/ plenty of glass, natural light & full width sliding doors that extend seamlessly to a fabulous alfresco entertaining area
• Master bedroom w/ walk in robe & ensuite
• Multi-purpose room / ideal study, media, or 3rd bedroom
• Functional social hostess kitchen w/ stone benches & induction cook top
• Stylish bathrooms
• Ducted air-conditioning
• Generous terrace style balcony with BBQ bench
• 2 individual car parks within the basement plus a storage cage on unit level (perfect for boards & golf clubs etc.)
• Quality fittings throughout
• Rooftop plunge pool
WATERFRONT LIVING - with huge self-contained studio'
Experience the tranquility and an abundance of lifestyle options from this dual level (4) bedroom residence which includes a huge fully self-contained ground level studio, ideal for extended family, home business or dual living. All this within 5 minutes to Kirra Beach.
