Richmond Valley Notes

with Therese Schier

Sumo duo lose it

Over the years Casino Public School special education teacher David Blackman and school assistant Barry Morgan have raised money for the special education unit by running raffles and playing in bands, but this year they decided to do something different.

"We're both fat so we'll raise money by losing weight," said David. "We don't walk too far, we don't run a lot - we'd better have a diet-a-thon."

And true to form they added an extra twist.

To launch the diet-a-thon the pair dressed themselves as sumo wrestlers, which ties in with this year's Casino Beef Week dress up theme 'countries of the world' and plan to reveal their newly toned bodies at the Beef Week celebrations.

At the official weigh-in Barry tipped the scales at 112kg and David at 104kg. The aim to lose 20 kilos between them by the final weigh-in day on May 28 during Beef Week.

The sumo duo has already attracted sponsorship from many local businesses including the Casino RSM Club, all Casino hotels and DIY Hardware. Michael Freney from the Casino Pool and Gym has also offered to be their personal trainer, throwing in a free three-month membership at the gym.

And why do they do it?

"To get our kids out in the community we need aids to make it possible," David said. "I can't teach them anything intelligent," Barry chipped in. "But I can help by raising money."

If you would like to help the sumo duo raise money contact the Casino Public School on 6662 1113 or look for sponsorship forms at local outlets.

Have your say on Retirement Village

The Mid Richmond Retirement Village (MRRV) management committee is urging people to voice their opposition to the sale of the village now, before it's too late.

With Richmond Valley Council due to make a decision on the future of the village at the March 15 Council meeting, committee member Graham Smith said there is no time to lose.

"This is a last boarding call before Richmond Valley Council's unconscionable logic hurtles MRRV into the wide blue yonder," Mr Smith said. "Now is the last chance to have your say before a decision is announced."

Council's decision late last year to call for expressions of interest from organisations interested in taking over the operation of the village enraged the local community. Speakers at a public meeting attended by more than 200 people last month pointed out that community money built the village and the meeting voted unanimously to request that the village remain in control of the current committee.

Mr Smith says the current management committee were only asked at the last minute to prepare a draft agreement in support of their submission for management of the village. He said the two other possible applicants - Southern Cross Care (NSW & ACT) Inc and St Andrew's Village Ballina Ltd - were both given more time.

Mr Smith is now appealing to councillors to take into account the wishes of the community.

"We're appealing to councillors to make a decision in the interests of the residents of the Mid Richmond Retirement Village," he said. "As far as the public of this area are concerned their choice is clearly for retention of the current management committee."

Mr Smith said uncertainty over the future of the village has already damaged staff morale and benefactors are withholding bequests to the village.

"It's the spirit of community effort that made the village unique and possible," he said.

"Richmond Valley Council spent mega dollars upgrading their palatial chambers. I hope it is big enough to withstand those present at the March meeting."

What's On in the Richmond Valley

• The Casino Garden Club's flower and art show is on this Saturday, March 5, in the Presbyterian Church Hall from 9am till 2pm.
• The Evans Head Village Players begin a two-week season of their second production Treasure Island at the Evans Head RSL Club. Tickets are $12 from the RSL Club.
• The Evans Head Community Technology Centre (CTC) is holding a TechnoSeniors week during Senior's Week from March 13-20. This will be an opportunity for seniors to learn more about computers and have some fun with new technology. For more information contact the Evans Head CTC on 6682 6410.

Barry Morgan and David Blackman practice their sumo wrestling in the gym before they shed kilos in their diet-a-thon to raise money for the special education unit at Casino Public School. The sumo duo hope to lose 20 kilos between them in time for Casino Beef Week.