The Northern Rivers Echo Main News

Here's to you, kids

Richmond Valley mayor Charlie Cox was on hand to congratulate Casino's Carrie Bailey at the annual Kids in Community Awards in Lismore on Tuesday night, where she was named winner of the inaugural Bronwyn Donaghy Memorial Award.

The awards pay tribute to local young people who achieve in the community and in their own lives ­- something Carrie seems to have accomplished in both respects.

As well as doing her HSC this year at Casino High School, Carrie is studying nursing through Kingscliff TAFE and is doing a unit at Southern Cross University in Applied Human Biosciences. In what little spare time she has Carrie helps lead and mentor young girls in the Casino Girls Brigade, and also works at Richmond Lodge (a home for the elderly) where she helps residents with reading, gardening and various other activities.

"I was shocked that I won but very honoured to be chosen," Carrie said. "I love being able to give back to the community and learn new skills at the same time, and it's a very rewarding experience. There's many others who give their time in the community, so to be recognised makes me feel very special."

Mr Campbell said flood wardens have already visited around 200 homes and businesses in Lismore's flood prone areas and he advised motorists to be aware of the dangerous conditions when driving. At present all major roads out of Lismore except the Bruxner Highway are closed.

"People should only travel if it is necessary and drivers should exercise extreme caution and report water across the road to their local council," Mr Campbell said. "If people need flood related assistance including sandbags or repairs to roofs, they should call the SES on 132 500, or if the situation is extremely serious they should call 000."

At the time of going to press Lismore had received around 250mm of rain in 30 hours and Rocky Creek Dam was filled to capacity at 4pm yesterday.

The heaviest falls were recorded around Corndale and Repentance Creek.

Big rains cause local flooding

Story: Julian Ryan

Lismore's $13 million flood levee could get it's first real test today with the SES saying the Wilsons River is expected to reach nine metres at 12 noon and cause moderate flooding throughout the region.

A low pressure trough over north eastern NSW has caused consistent rain across the Northern Rivers and is expected to bring gale-force winds and more heavy showers over the next few days.

Floodwaters have already topped seven metres and spilled into North Lismore. Water will move into South Lismore at 10.5 metres, and over the levee and into the CBD at 11 metres, which the SES says is a distinct possibility at this stage.

Last night SES media spokesperson Phil Campbell advised people and business owners in low-lying areas throughout the Northern Rivers to remain vigilant and listen to the radio for the latest flood reports.

"People living or working along rivers and streams should monitor the latest weather forecasts and warnings, and be ready to move to higher ground," he said. "If people in Lismore are required to evacuate they will be doorknocked by the flood wardens and the standard emergency warning signal will be broadcast over local radio stations every 10 minutes."

Pay dispute disrupts local surgery

Elective surgery throughout the Northern Rivers will be cancelled from this Friday, July 1, following a long running dispute between local anaesthetists and the North Coast Area Health Service (NCAHS) over pay and conditions.

Eleven anaesthetists from across the region yesterday decided not to renew or extend their Visiting Medical Officer (VMO) contracts, forcing the NCAHS to postpone all non-emergency surgical procedures at Lismore Base, Casino, Ballina, Byron Bay and Maclean hospitals.

Former chair of the Department of Anaesthetics at Lismore Base Hospital, Dr Megan Gray, said anaesthetists are asking for a 50 per cent increase on the current hourly rate of $179 and a decrease in on-call commitments.

However, according to the NCAHS chief executive, Chris Crawford, the NCAHS does not have the authority to increase pay rates, resulting in a stalemate between the two groups.

"Some anaesthetists are asking for $225 an hour while others are asking for around $300 an hour - it's a lot more than the standard VMOs are paid in NSW at the moment and if it was given to anaesthetists in Lismore, VMOs in other parts of the state would also want increases," Mr Crawford said. "That's why these increases are negotiated between the Australian Medical Association and the NSW Department of Health, because they have state-wide implications. We don't have authority to negotiate on the hourly rate."

Dr Gray said the NSW Department of Health has been aware of the dispute for the last five years. In June she personally wrote to Health Minister Morris Iemma and informed him that anaesthetists were not prepared to wait any longer.

"We've been getting nowhere in the negotiations and are fed up," Dr Gray said. "The majority of us want to work in the public system and don't want to see anybody get hurt, which is why there are provisions for emergency surgery. We've asked for ministerial intervention and remain hopeful that the NSW Department of Health can offer us a package that is acceptable both in a financial and conditional sense."

Mr Crawford said the NCAHS has asked each of the 11 anaesthetists to allow a three-month extension on their contracts so negotiations could continue, however, none of the anaesthetists chose to accept the offer.

As a result the NCAHS is now putting in place a contingency plan to cover the shortage of anaesthetists, and patients booked in for non-urgent elective surgery will be contacted by phone to have their procedures rescheduled. Lismore Base Hospital will maintain full emergency surgery and obstetric services, with some patients also being transferred to hospitals outside the region to undergo operations.

Mr Crawford said the NCAHS will continue to negotiate with the anaesthetists in an attempt to persuade them to renew or extend their VMO contracts. He said if the stalemate continues, the NCAHS would have to advertise for other anaesthetists to fill the positions.

"We would have to look at getting new anaesthetists from both Australia and overseas, and also employ locoms," Mr Crawford said. "We need to continue to provide the existing level of surgical services to local communities. I'm disappointed that patients waiting for elective surgery are going to be affected but we have little alternative at this stage."

The spirit of Bundjalung lives on

Nimbin-based artist Burri Jerome (pictured) has been immortalising Aboriginal sacred sites on canvas for more than 12 years, capturing the spirit and beauty of Bundjalung land in honour of his elders who are no longer alive.

On Saturday one of Burri's exquisite paintings, Morning Moon Nimbin Rocks, was named winner of the $1000 Open Art Award at the opening of the National Parks and Wildlife Service's Indigenous Art and Culture Exhibition at the Nimbin School of Arts. He said he felt "proud and humble" that his work had been singled out to win the overall prize in the fourth annual awards, which attracted a record number of entries from professional artists, painters, sculptors and community groups throughout the Northern Rivers.

"I do this for the Bundjalung elders who have passed on - I paint to remind people of their spirit and the sacred sites they instructed us to protect," Burri said. "By painting sites such as the Nimbin Rocks we are preserving them for the future."

Meanwhile, Garth Lena took out the Sculpture Award for his creation Man Goes, Luke Close and Paris Naday won the Collaborative Award for Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal artists working together with their multimedia work Heart Evolution, and Gilbert Laurie was chosen as the People's Choice winner. Due to the difficulty of judging such a high standard of work, a special prize called the Gnibi Bundjalung Award was also presented to Lismore's Robert King for his painting Goanna Dreaming - a large, intricate work the judges described simply as "breathtaking".

The exhibition will be on show until July 17. For more images and info see this week's Art News.

High fashion for fairy penguins

Goonellabah woman Gail Doggett is looking for local people to help knit woollen jumpers for fairy penguins in Victoria to help counter the harmful effects oil has on their fur coats.

Gail was so touched by a television news report on the colony of Phillip Island fairy penguins and the role the jumpers played in their rehabilitation that she decided she couldn't just sit by and do nothing.

"The news report showed all these penguins wearing brightly coloured woollen jumpers and they looked so cute I just wanted to help," Gail said. "It seems that when the penguins come in contact with oil in the water they lose their natural water proofing out of their coats and when they arrive on shore they are cold, wet, exhausted and traumatised. The woollen jumpers protect the penguins and enable them to grow their own natural coats back. For anyone who knows how to knit this is the perfect opportunity to help these little birds recover... and make a fashion statement at the same time."

The aim is to knit 2000 jumpers by the end of July and Gail says the jumpers are very simple to make. For more information phone Gail on 6625 1814 or Byron Bay Craft on 6680 9951.

Raising funds for surgery in Nepal

Over the last five years former North Coast resident Susan Stenson has arranged facial surgery for more than 650 cleft lip/palate patients in remote villages around Nepal.

Susan says having a cleft lip/palate disability can mean a life plagued with respiratory illnesses and speech problems, and in Nepal results in little or no work opportunities or marriage prospects. By competing in the Great Himalayan Volkswagen Rally in her VW Susan hopes to raise enough funds so surgeons can conduct another 250 operations this year.

Susan, who is currently visiting the North Coast and buying new parts for her VW, will be giving free presentations on her work at two Kathmandu Chai Nights.

The first will be held this Friday, July 1, at the Red Dove Centre in Lismore, with the second on Saturday, July 2, at the Watergardens Holistic Centre in Byron Bay. Both nights start at 7pm and chai and munchies will be for sale. For info phone Fran on 6687 5735.

Young stars shine in our community

Winners of the 2005 Kids in Community Awards after receiving their accolades at the presentation night at the Lismore Workers Club on Tuesday. Bottom: Winner of the Against All Odds 19-25 years category, Lismore's Melissa Farlow, with former Olympic swimmer Duncan Armstrong, who was guest speaker on the night.

Not every teenager can say they know Bryan Brown and Rachel Ward, but thanks to a positive attitude and a willingness to always have a go, 19-year-old Melissa Farlow will soon be rubbing shoulders with the stars.

Melissa was named winner of the Against All Odds 19-25 years category at the Kids in Community Awards on Tuesday night, and discovered much to her delight that a weekend at the famous couple's Sydney home was part of her prize.

"I'm just so stoked - it was amazing when they called my name and everyone was cheering, but when I realised what the prize was I was just overwhelmed," Melissa said. "I've never met anyone famous before and I'm nervous as hell, but it'll be a whole new experience and I'm going to cherish every moment of it."

Melissa has overcome many obstacles in her life and despite an intellectual disability she is striving to achieve her goals of finding work and living away from home. She is currently working with On-Q Human Resources in a Transition to Work program to develop work and life skills that will help her find employment in the local area.

Melissa was devastated four years ago when her mother died unexpectedly of cancer, but even that harrowing experience just made her stronger. On Tuesday it was her mother's birthday, and a fitting date for Melissa to be honoured for her resilience and strong spirit.

"Melissa's beauty comes from within - she is an amazing person and you can't help but love her," said Rose O'Neill from On-Q Human Resources. "A lot of kids in her position could have sat down and given up, but she has a lot of inner strength and is a wonderful young person who thoroughly deserves this award. I think it will give her the courage and motivation to move forward and remind her that she can achieve anything she puts her mind to."

The Kids in the Community Awards were a huge success this year, with a full house packing the Lismore Workers Club on Tuesday to honour local young people and their achievements.

The winners on the night were:

Peer Support 13-18 years: Tessa Hayward.

Community Support (individual): Jennifer Williams.

Community Support (group): St John's College Woodlawn Social Justice Committee.

Indigenous Youth Support 13-18 years: Craig Morgan.

Indigenous Youth Support 19-25 years: Christella Flanders.

Homeless Youth Support: Julie Leete.

Against All Odds 13-18 years: Blue Edgar.

Against All Odds 19-25 years: Melissa Farlow.

Mentor or Role Model (open age): Neil Young.

Individual Supporting Youth or Youth Programmes: Richard Marlin.

Group Supporting Youth or Youth Programmes: Bundjalung Elders Council.

Encouragement Award: Muranda Goodsell.

Bronwyn Donaghy Memorial Award: Carrie Bailey.

$2m in telecoms for Lismore

Government services in Lismore are about to benefit from a $2 million project that will deliver broadband internet services to schools, hospitals, police stations and court houses.

Lismore City councillor Jenny Dowell said the network was part of a $43 million project spread across 24 regional areas of NSW to improve communication capacity in up to 3000 State Government sites.

"Planning for the network access points is well advanced," Cr Dowell said. "The project will be finished by the end of the year and interconnected by a commercial site in Carrington Street."

The project, to be built and operated by Soul Pattinson Telecommunications, incorporates microwave, fibre-optic and ADSL technology. Where possible, local sub-contractors will be employed.

New 'Lismore Law' protects bus services in NSW

The Kirklands bus timetable fiasco has led to the creation of new legislation - dubbed the 'Lismore Law' - that gives the NSW Government authority to step in and run a private bus service in the event of a crisis.

The State Government last week passed the Passenger Transport Amendment (Maintenance of Bus Services) Bill 2005, which will allow the Ministry of Transport to take control of bus services in the event of a company collapse or contract termination.

Uralba mother Tamsin Jackson, who organised a number of community protests over the recent Kirklands debacle, said she was thrilled that the Lismore Law had been introduced as it would provide communities with a permanent safety net.

"Now we know that in the future we won't be left without services while any problems that might arise with a bus company are ironed out," she said. "While it was unfortunate what happened with Kirklands, it has resulted in this new law, which gives parents a real sense of security. I feel all our efforts were worthwhile and it shows people power does work."

Transport Minister John Watkins said the new legislation was "great news" for parents and children across the state.

"These new laws mean not one child should ever be left stranded because their local bus company has gone belly up," Mr Watkins said. "Across NSW 600,000 school children catch buses to school every day and this law protects the services that get them there and home again. In the event of a bus company's financial or contract crisis, the Ministry of Transport can now temporarily direct the operator's vehicles and assets, so services can continue as normal."

Mum's the word at new playground

Opening the new children's playground at Nimbin's Peace Park on Saturday were (l-r) Nimbin Community Centre coordinator Caroline Cowley, local artist Donato Rosella, Lismore mayor Merv King and local mum Caspah Ubukata.

A united push by local mothers to establish a safe place in Nimbin for kids to play has resulted in the opening of a new children's playground in Peace Park.

The group of mums, led by Caspah Ubukata, approached Lismore City Council some years ago during public access and Council responded to their heartfelt plea by providing $40,000 for the project.

The Lismore Workers Club then chipped in $4500, which was used to create a colourful 40-metre serpent sculpture that now encircles the playground. The serpent was built over a six-month period by a team of local volunteers and artists, with well-known sculptor Donato Rosella creating the serpent and Indigenous artist Burri Jerome painting the design.

"There is an old saying that it takes a village to raise a child and I feel like this playground is my baby that the community helped me raise," said Caspah at the park's opening on Saturday. "We really needed a place where parents could get together and talk and share while the kids played, and this will help define Peace Park as a tranquil and safe family gathering place. It just goes to show what can be achieved if we work together as a community."

The playground concept was developed by the Sunny Tuesday Toddler Group and was managed by the Nimbin Community Development Association. The project has also received a further donation of $8500 from the NSW Department of Sport and Recreation, which will be used to purchase more playground equipment in the future.

Kids breathe easy thanks to Rotary

Local Rotarians (l-r) David Crandon, Warwick Herbert, John Hayman, Karl Sprogis and Elio Zambelli at Lismore Base Hospital on Tuesday inspecting one of the new humidifiers and oxygen blenders that were purchased after a combined fundraising effort involving seven local Rotary Clubs.

The children's ward at the Lismore Base Hospital now has two new humidifiers and oxygen blenders thanks to the combined fundraising efforts of seven local Rotary Clubs.

The Rotary Clubs of Goonellabah, Lismore, Lismore West, Lismore Central, Alstonville, Summerland Sunrise and Mullumbimby began fundraising for the project late last year and between them have raised $11,000 towards the new equipment.

The humidifiers and oxygen blenders will be used to treat babies, infants and children suffering from respiratory conditions, which usually increase during the winter months.

Project coordinator and Rotary Club of Goonellabah member Warwick Herbert said the arrival of the new equipment was timely.

"Winter is the respiratory season and this new equipment means that more local children suffering from respiratory conditions can be treated right here in Lismore without having to be transferred to larger hospitals on the Gold Coast or in Brisbane," he said. "This is a wonderful example of what happens when a number of separate entities work together to achieve a common goal."

The total cost of the new equipment was $16,500 and the remaining money was supplied by the Our Kids charity.

Grant enables new whale research

Southern Cross University (SCU) researchers will develop the first non-invasive and non-lethal method of determining the age of humpback whales following the announcement of an Australian Research Council Linkage Grant.

SCU Whale Research Centre director, Professor Peter Harrison, said the $288,000 grant will allow the centre to use cutting-edge DNA research techniques to determine the age of whales. He said previous information on the age of whales had been gathered by determining the numbers of layers in the wax plugs in the ear canals, extracted from whale carcasses.

"Japanese whalers are saying they need to kill whales in order to age them, but once the age of whales can be determined using non-lethal skin sampling, there will be no excuse for lethal sampling by pro-whaling nations," Professor Harrison said. "This is globally significant research that will provide essential information for managing populations of endangered or vulnerable whale species."

Another SCU project has also received a $412,000 Linkage Grant to investigate the use of Bauxsol based grouts in the control of acid rock drainage, which is a major environmental problem in mine sites.

Alstonville's answer to Billy Elliott

16-year-old George Weir from Wollongbar will travel to Canberra this week after being selected for an intensive four-week dance program at the Australian Choreographic Centre.

While most 16-year-old boys dream of becoming top class cricketers or footballers, all George Weir from Wollongbar ever wanted to do was become a professional ballet dancer, and thanks to the help of his dance teacher Sue Whiteman, he's well on his way to a career on stage.

This week the 16-year-old Alstonville High School student will travel to the Australian Choreographic Centre in Canberra where he has been selected to take part in the Quantum Leap Youth Choreographic Ensemble over the next four weeks.

Whilst in Canberra, George will join 55 other dancers from Australia and overseas to study contemporary ballet and choreography for eight hours every day, culminating with a performance at the Canberra Theatre.

The selection was particularly special for George as he is the youngest member of the ensemble and the only dancer selected who is not studying dance full-time or already employed as a professional dancer.

"Ever since I saw Riverdance when I was 12 all I ever wanted to do was become a professional dancer and now this opportunity has come up I am really very excited," George said. "I work and train very hard for between four and five hours most days but really it's been the guidance of my teacher Sue Whiteman that has helped get me selected. I will study dance when I do my HSC and after that I want to travel overseas and do a university degree. One day I hope to open my very own dance studio."

Minister for North Coast needed says Roads Panel

By Eve Sinton

Lobbying the Federal Government to appoint a special minister for the North Coast to focus on improving roads and linking infrastructure with south-east Queensland was just one of many issues raised at the NRMA's Better Roads Panel meeting in Ballina on Monday.

NRMA Motoring and Services director for the North Coast, Wendy Machin, said the three-hour meeting provided a valuable opportunity for the NRMA to hear concerns about local roads direct from residents, organisations and businesses.

Northern Rivers Regional Organisation Of Councils (NOROC) chairman Ernie Bennett said NOROC had been calling on the State Government to appoint a special minister for the North Coast, but now it was also time for a Federal Minister to be appointed to deal with the cross-border infrastructure issues arising from the region's projected growth.

"Roads are stifling development," Mr Bennett said. "They are holding back the growth of the region, especially compared with south-east Queensland where the Beattie Government is going to spend $24 billion on infrastructure. By the year 2020, 25 per cent of Australia's population will be living between Coffs Harbour and Hervey Bay," he said. "For that reason alone we need both state and federal governments looking at how we're going to bring infrastructure up to a standard to handle that population increase. Funding is the biggest issue, and we need to get the right attitude from a government point of view."

Ms Machin said particular concern was raised over the state of the Pacific Highway, the Bruxner Highway and the Lismore to Bangalow Road. Ms Machin said the NRMA would now fund new research into local roads using feedback from the meeting, including specific case studies on those roads identified as a major concern.

Fun and friendship under the scope

Scope Club of Ballina members (l-r) Merelie Golding, Maree May, Rhonda Aikman and Leonie Dahl are looking for women to help form a Scope Club in Lismore.

Members of the Scope Club of Ballina are looking for women who value fun, friendship and fundraising to help form a new Scope Club of Lismore.

Scope is a service club for women of all ages who meet twice a month to build lasting friendships and raise money for local charities at the same time.

Scope zone president Merelie Golding said if enough women show interest, the Ballina members would help the Scope Club of Lismore to get off the ground so it can become an officially chartered club.

"There is a wonderful opportunity for women in Lismore to enjoy the delightful company of like-minded women and it's for absolutely everyone no matter what age, race, creed or political persuasion you might be," she said. "The only requirement is that you must like fun, friendship and the odd spot of fundraising, which usually is the most fun of all. Any funds we do raise are spent right here in the local community except for a one-off national fundraising project each year."

Merelie said last year the Scope Club of Ballina raised $8000 for the Cancer Care & Haematology Unit at the Ballina Hospital and contributed to other local charities including the Riding for the Disabled Association.

People interested in forming the Scope Club of Lismore are invited to attend the Ballina club's next meeting on Monday, July 4, at the Ballina RSL Club from 7pm.

For more information phone Merelie on 6681 3600.

2005 Tourism Awards

Entries are now open for the 2005 Northern Rivers Tourism Awards and a special workshop is being offering on Monday, July 11, to help provide advice and tips on writing an award-winning submission.

The workshop will be held at the Lismore Economic Development Unit in the Rous Water building on Molesworth Street from 1-4pm, and will be conducted by Linda Hailey - a previous judge of the NSW Tourism Awards.

To RSVP for the workshop phone Joanne McMurtry at Northern Rivers Tourism on 6626 9197. Entry forms and information on the awards is available at www.northernriverstourism.com.au/About. Applications close on July 25.

Pining for some input

Members of the Friends of the Lismore Rainforest Botanic Gardens (clockwise from rear left) Mary Harris, Geoff and Betty Walker, Dennis Mathews, David De Nardi, Harley Atkins, Judy Lawlor, Jan De Nardi, Margaret Smith, Pat Offord and Phoebe Havyatt with Harley's grandson Kristian Atkins. The group is looking for community input into the next stage of the botanic gardens.

The Friends of the Lismore Rainforest Botanic Gardens (FLRBG) are looking for community input after discovering they are custodians of a large hoop pine plantation at their Wyrallah Road site.

The hoop pine plantation was planted by Lismore City Council and the NSW Department of Agriculture in 1985 to help eradicate camphor laurels and produce millable timber in 30 years time.

FLRBG are now deciding how to best utilise the plantation, with some initial suggestions including turning it into a nature walk as part of the final botanic gardens design or milling some of the timber so local artists from TAFE could create sculptures for the gardens.

"The botanic gardens are a community venture and are being developed for the people of Lismore to enjoy, so we really want locals to give us ideas or concepts of how they best think we can use this unexpected resource," said FLRBG member, Mary Harris. "We're particularly wanting to include some interesting activities for children and some people have suggested we could create a maze or labyrinth that kids could explore. Basically we're hoping anyone with a creative idea will get in touch with the group and provide some valuable objective input."

FLRBG have a long-term plan for the botanic gardens that includes establishing creeks and ponds, a rainforest canopy walk, a nursery, souvenir shop, restaurant, two lookouts and picnic areas throughout. In just the last two years volunteers have planted around 2000 native trees and ferns, and Mary says the long-term vision is well on its way to becoming a reality.

FLRBG are having their AGM on July 16 at the Blue Tongue Café in North Lismore from 9am. New members would be made most welcome. For more information or to discuss ideas for the hoop pine plantation phone Mary on 6624 2064.

Rocking out against drugs

This lively group of Casino teenagers are busy preparing for their chance to shine at the 2005 Rock Eisteddfod Challenge in Toowoomba on July 15. The Challenge features performances from schools and community groups presenting a drug free message through dance, music and design in a series of concerts held around the country.

Casino-based high school teacher Caroline Harris and dancer Erin Whitton have found a way to encourage teenagers to have fun while enjoying a 100 per cent drug free experience.

For the fifth consecutive year, Caroline and Erin are preparing a group of local kids to perform at the 2005 Rock Eisteddfod Challenge in Toowoomba on July 15. The Rock Eisteddfod Challenge is an Australia-wide initiative to give kids the opportunity to express themselves in dance, drama and design while sending a the message that kids can have a good time without resorting to drugs.

In the five years they have been involved in the Challenge Caroline and Erin have seen what a difference the anti-drug message has had on local teenagers.

"We are showing the kids you can have the most fun in the world and not smoke or drink," Erin said. "It's not a need - it's a want. This shows you don't have to have that stuff to enjoy life."

And it's not just the anti-drug message that benefits the kids according to Caroline.

"We are seeing kids who've never performed before perform on stage and they get a buzz out of it," she said. "For some kids it's the only chance they have to shine and for many it's the first step on the path to a career in entertainment. We've had kids go on to work at the Big Day Out and one has gone on to study event management."

The group's performance is based around sport - encouraging kids to get a "natural high" from exercise, and their routine features plenty of cheerleading, acrobatics and rap. Erin said that although they may not have the biggest group at the Challenge, performing at the Empire Theatre in Toowoomba in front of 2500 people makes it all worthwhile.

"We have a ball and the kids make lots of friends," Erin said. "We love going away to compete."

The Casino group has been rehearsing long and hard, building sets, writing scripts and choosing music. Now there's just one thing they need to get them to Toowoomba - a truck big enough to carry six large sets. Anyone who can help this enthusiastic bunch of kids fulfill their dream should phone Caroline on 6667 3344.

NRMA helps keep Late Nighter running

NRMA Far North Coast country manager Mario Napoli (right) presents a $5000 cheque to Lismore City Council general manager Paul O'Sullivan and Council's road safety officer Wendy Johnson for the Lismore Late Nighter bus service.

The NRMA has given Lismore City Council $5000 to help fund the Lismore Late Nighter bus service.

After completing a successful trial period in February the Lismore Late Nighter will be reintroduced later this month so people have an affordable and safe way to get home from Lismore's CBD on the weekends.

Lismore Council's road safety officer, Wendy Johnson, said Council applied for the funding through the NRMA's Community Road Safety Grants Program and was delighted to receive the funding.

"We're absolutely thrilled because the grant gives us the opportunity to reintroduce the Lismore Late Nighter and work toward its sustainability in the future," Wendy said. "The Late Nighter is still in its infancy but the ultimate aim is to reduce drink driving offences and make the roads safer in general."

Keep an eye on The Echo in coming weeks for the reintroduction of the service and revised timetables.

Well placed to care for kids

Lismore Outside School Hours Care Centre coordinators Helen Hall (left) and Tarlai Iggleden (right) with some of the 60 children who currently attend the service. The service recently acquired accreditation and now has a further 15 places available.

The Lismore Outside School Hours Care Centre (LOSHCC) run by Lismore City Council has achieved accreditation after passing the Quality Assurance Guidelines with flying colours.

The Quality Assurance Guidelines were implemented by the National Childcare Accreditation Council to ensure services were providing a high level of care to children and LOSHCC is the largest local service to obtain accreditation.

As a result the Family Assistance Office has increased the number of approved places from 60 to 75 and parents are now being invited to apply for a place for their child. The service, which caters for five to 12 year-olds, gives priority to parents in Lismore who are either working or studying.

"We all worked really hard for the accreditation and achieved top rankings in almost all areas - it has really set a benchmark for other services in the area," said LOSHCC coordinator, Tarlai Iggleden. "Parents can have peace of mind knowing that we provide a safe environment with a high quality of care and that they're child is going to be given healthy food and have a fun, creative and educational experience. It's really a tribute to the dedicated staff, who all have a real love of children and go above and beyond to make the service so outstanding."

The six staff that operate LOSHCC were recently nominated for their work in the Lismore Council Staff Excellence Awards, which will be announced within the next month.

LOSHCC runs between 3pm and 6.15pm during school term at Lismore Public School. Tarlai is encouraging anyone interested in securing a place to contact her on 0427 458 178.

Kev's last post

Most people wouldn't think being a postman is a dangerous occupation, but in 42 years local postie Kevin Gray (pictured) has survived savage dogs, avoided swooping magpies and waded through floodwaters just to get people their daily mail.

After more than four decades of delivering mail around Alstonville, Wollongbar and surrounding country areas, Kevin will retire from his job with Australia Post this week so he can spend more time gardening, travelling and wetting the odd line.

"It all started in 1963 when I bought a cream run and a carrying business that included the mail side as well," Kevin explained. "After all these years it will be sad to give the run away because its been a very important part of my life. I have made a lot of fantastic friendships."

Kevin said as a postie he was always committed to getting the mail delivered rain hail or shine and can't recall ever going back to the depot with a letter or parcel that hadn't been given to its rightful owner.

"Sometimes you'd get a letter that would just say 'To grandma and grandpa' or 'To John and Sue' and I'd have to work out who the mail belonged to, but that was part of the fun," Kevin said. "Whatever it was, I made sure it got where it was supposed to go, and people always appreciated my efforts."

Although Kevin officially retires from his job this week he will do a special run later this month to personally say goodbye to his many friends. At least he won't have trouble finding them.

Funding for three local projects

Three local projects will receive a combined total of $336,428 in Federal Government funding to run counselling and relationships programs in the Northern Rivers.

The Men and Families Exploring New Directions project, run by the Men's Resource Centre in Lismore, will receive $148,300 to support men and their families with one-on-one and group training programs.

The Lismore and District Financial Counselling Service, run by Lismore Neighbourhood Centre, will receive $41,729 to provide personal budget planning and counselling to those in financial distress, and to train more volunteers.

The third recipient is the Richmond Valley Family Outreach project, run by Casino Family Support Service, which will receive $146,399 to provide a range of parenting and relationships groups throughout the Richmond Valley area. They will focus on teaching people to cope with the daily stresses of life that often lead to family breakdown.

Recognising innovative urban design

Entries are now open for the 2005 Northern Rivers Urban Design Awards, which this year features a new category called 'villages' in addition to the usual categories of commercial and government/community.

Villages, or parts of a village, are able to enter the awards and be judged for their sense of community, innovation or character preservation.

Entries for the awards close on August 8. For further information or nomination forms visit www.urban-design-award.com or phone 6687 2378.

Meanwhile, World Green Building Council chair Che Wall and leading BASIX training facilitator, David Eckstein, will be presenting a half-day workshop in Lismore on August 17 entitled Building Sustainably - The Only Way Forward.

This event will address all aspects of building sustainably, including a focus on the new BASIX legislation that was recently introduced. For more information phone the above number.

A driving force for charity

Peter Arthur and Robert Thompson are looking for sponsorship for a charity outback adventure raising money for Our Kids and Kidney Health Australia.

Outback adventurer Peter Arthur of McKees Hill is raising funds for local charity Our Kids and Kidney Health Australia by driving right across the country and back again.

Peter and a team of three others will do a non-stop return crossing of Australia between its most easterly and westerly points - Cape Byron and Steep Point in WA. The team is now seeking sponsorship for the crossing before they set out in August.

"We hope to raise enough to buy a $20,000 humidicrib for Lismore Base Hospital as well as giving money to Kidney Health Australia, but we need community support to do it," Peter said. "Businesses who would like to get their name on team uniforms and the 4WD vehicle can do so from $500 and will have the benefit of publicity appearances at public events leading up to the trip as well as media coverage of the adventure."

Peter and his team, Robert Thompson, Howard Sills and Stuart Auld, are making an exploratory trip next month, travelling the route along the Gunbarrel Highway and across the Simpson Desert so they have their bearings for the real deal.

Peter is careful to clarify the crossing is not race - while keeping to speed limits, the crew will stop only for refuelling and hope to beat a previous record set in 2000 of seven days and 26 minutes.

Anyone who would like to sponsor the journey or find out more should phone Peter on 6663 1442 or email info@4wdcoasttocoast.com.au.

Independence Day rally

An Independence from America Day rally will be held this Sunday, July 3, at Byron Bay's main beach from 11am.

MLC Peter Breen will be one those speaking out against the US alliance. Recently he addressed the NSW Parliament on the indefinite detention of prisoners, comparing the detention facility at Guantanamo Bay to Australia's immigration detention centres.

Following a number of other speeches the rally will then march to the Byron markets for more activities and an open mic session.

People are encouraged to bring placards and drums.

Personal growth through creativity

Susan Joyce, who painted this artwork called Ocean Woman, is facilitating a Creative Art Therapy group for women in Lismore from July 19.

Susan, a qualified and registered art therapist, says art therapy is a form of creative expression than can be used to gain self-awareness and help personal growth.

"Participants do not need to have had any prior art experience as I will assist in both the use of art materials and exploring the images made," Susan said. "The art therapy group offers a non-competitive, confidential environment where people can explore themselves through the practice of art."

There are eight places available in the group, which is open to people of any age, ethnic origin and sexual orientation. The eight-week course includes a weekly two-hour group session on Tuesdays from 10am to 12pm.

A total fee of $60 covers all art materials. To book or find out more phone the Lismore and District Women's Health Centre on 6621 9800.

The best way to mind your business

Lismore Unlimited Opportunities (LUO) manager Amber Hall displays the monthly newsletter that is free to all LUO members.

Lismore Unlimited Opportunities (LUO) - or the Lismore Chamber of Commerce - has redeveloped its membership benefits package to create further business opportunities for members.

Since coming on board five months ago, LUO manager Amber Hall has seen a 68 per cent growth in membership - a figure she wants to increase even further with the introduction of new benefits for businesses who join up.

"Our monthly meetings have been increased from one to two and we have also introduced a state-wide business benchmarking system where business owners can compare their vital statistics with similar businesses all over NSW," Amber said. "We are also providing members with a mystery shopper program where businesses are assessed by a trained assessor and then the business receives feedback on crucial things like customer service, presentation and overall business practice."

Other LUO membership benefits include free listing in the Lismore Business Directory, input into Lismore-based business projects, bulk advertising and advice on management, staff development, tax and industrial relations.

For more information or to become a LUO member, phone Amber Hall on 6621 4366 or email her at info@luo.com.au.

For Cliff's a jolly good Fellow

Ballina podiatrist Cliff Coleman with NSW Premier Bob Carr at Parliament House celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Winston Churchill Trust in Australia.

Ballina podiatrist Cliff Coleman recently joined around 300 other Winston Churchill Fellows from around NSW at Parliament House in Sydney to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Winston Churchill Trust in Australia.

The Winston Churchill Trust was created in Australia in 1965 to provide everyday people with the opportunity to take part in study programs overseas.

As a Winston Churchill Fellow in 2002, Cliff visited the UK, Germany and the USA, where he expanded his knowledge of podiatry.

Cliff said the highlight of the anniversary celebrations in Sydney recently was a speech made by NSW Premier Bob Carr, who gave a "warts and all" account of Britain's most famous leader.

"During Mr Carr's speech he outlined all the important aspects of Churchill's political life and didn't try to gloss over his strategic military blunders," he said. "My grandfather was a 1st Field Company engineer who landed at Gallipoli and in some way I feel that my Winston Churchill Fellowship completed in 2002 was a reward in exchange for my grandfather being part of the terrible Gallipoli campaign."

Beautiful people on the move

La Bella Figura proprietor Leane Brown (right) with beautician Lisa Lawrence. Both say they're excited about the business moving from Magellan to larger premises in Dawson Street within the next month.

Sometime in the next four weeks, La Bella Figura Beauty Salon in Lismore will relocate from Magellan Street to larger premises just around the corner in Dawson Street so the business can provide an expanded range of beauty services.

Once relocated, La Bella Figura will provide endermologie and 'Lift 6' for painless, non-intrusive body reshaping and to also reduce fine lines and create a younger, more toned facial appearance.

In addition to this there will also be a steam spa for detoxification as well as a new nutritional weight loss program and all the other standard beauty treatments including gel and acrylic nails, spray tans, waxing and much more.

La Bella Figura proprietor Leane Brown said she is currently promoting a new product range called Perfect Potions.

"These products are completely natural, made from plant extracts and essential oils, and are manufactured by a company that's 100 per cent Australian owned," Leane said. "When we move the focus of the business will be on natural health and beauty for wellness of the mind, body and soul."

For more information about the latest beauty and body treatments available phone La Bella Figura on 6622 0498. Keep an eye on the The Echo for details on when the business makes its move.

Helping Cambodian victims of torture

Jane Welsh and colleague Tia In Souvthea working at the Association of the Blind in Cambodia.

Southern Cross University student Jane Welsh has recently returned to Cambodia to conduct a research project on women who experience acid attack violence.

Jane, who has completed a Bachelor of Social Science and recently started her Honours, said acid attacks were a common occurrence in the Cambodian capital of Phnom Penh and many smaller communities.

Jane spent a year in Cambodia as an AusAID Youth Ambassador for Development and during her placement with the Association of the Blind she established a social club for survivors of acid attack violence.

She said it was hoped the new research study would give survivors an opportunity to share their experiences and stories and create momentum for change.

"Acid attacks are a brutal form of torture and are a common practice in some of the smaller communities," Jane said. "It involves the throwing of sulphuric or nitric acid onto another person, leaving them scarred physically, socially and emotionally for life. Women injured in the attacks, many of whom are blinded or disfigured, are often shunned by their families and communities and there are few support services available to them."

Jane hopes to stay in Cambodia for about four months to complete her Honours research and improve the lives of woman who have experienced this excruciating form of torture.

"My long-term goal is to create opportunities for the women to gain access to services and resources," Jane said. "There are many women who are disabled but cannot access services or accommodation. Unfortunately, these women are isolated and ignored."

The circus comes to town

Attending the When the Circus Comes to Town workshop in Lismore recently were (l-r) independent film producer Harry Yates, project manager Sue Wadley, Screenworks locations liaison officer Dallas Nock, NSW Film and Television Office representative Sandra Alexander and local filmmaker Cathy Henkel.

Northern Rivers Screenworks recently hosted a workshop called When the Circus Comes to Town to help attract and develop a sustainable screen industry in the Northern Rivers.

During the workshop representatives from state and local government, as well as film makers and other industry representatives, discussed the benefits of creating a 'film friendly' atmosphere in the Northern Rivers.

Northern Rivers Screenworks chair and well-known filmmaker Cathy Henkel said a local screen production industry would create many employment opportunities and would also attract investment in the local economy.

"Screen productions create marketing opportunities for the region that can't be measured by a single price tag," she said. "New Zealand, Queensland and Sydney have all had all had a remarkable increase in tourism and associated industries due to the filming activities within their regions. We want to ensure this region maximises the opportunities that the screen industries present in terms of sustainable employment and long term economic and cultural benefits to the region."

Antiques and collectables in Bexhill

The Queensland Collectors Club is presenting an Antique and Collectable Fair at the Bexhill Hall next Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, July 5-7.

The fair will feature a huge display of tools, military items, fine china, silver, vintage clothing, paintings, furniture, dolls, books, toys, crystalware, jewellery and pretty much anything else that's old or worth collecting.

Organiser Richard McDonald said buyers can find some extremely rare and unique pieces while people with antiques they want to get rid of can bring along items to sell to the club.

"We especially find a lot of people contacting us to take unwanted war memorabilia, notably weapons, such as bayonets and daggers, which people simply don't want around the house," Richard said. "Of course from a club point of view, this often means some truly unique pieces are made available to our club and its members, ensuring they will be well loved and cherished by true collectors."

The fair will be open on Tuesday from 12pm to 7pm, on Wednesday from 7.30am to 7pm and on Thursday from 7.30am to 6pm. For more information phone Richard on 0411 413 393.

Funding for small towns

Local communities with fewer than 2500 residents are being urged to apply for grants of up to $15,000 to help them plan their economic future. The money is designed for local initiatives that will promote and strengthen communities.

Applications close on August 15.

For more information and application forms visit www.regionalcommunities.nsw.gov.au.

This week's features: Your Shopping Guide - Local Businesses