The Northern Rivers Echo Main News

20 years on, AIDS rampage continues

Jen Ireland, manager of the Lismore-based Sexual Health & AIDS Service, with community members Victor Shepherd (left) and Ross Nicholls, and a section of the AIDS Memorial Quilt on display in Lismore Base Hospital's foyer to mark World AIDS Day.

Story & photo:
Robin Osborne

Although much media attention is focused on the risk of bird flu, a well-established pandemic continues its deadly march across the globe, last year infecting another five million people.

To date, 40 million people have been infected with the HIV/AIDS virus, 60 per cent of them in Africa, where less than one per cent of those with the illness are receiving antiretroviral drug treatments.

The antiretrovirals, developed in the 1990s, are a lifeline to HIV/AIDS positive people.

In the words of Victor Shepherd, a member of the North Coast's large HIV/AIDS community, medications such as T20 are "literally lifesaving wonder drugs."

"As a result, the mood in the community is a lot more optimistic than it used to be, when being diagnosed with AIDS was seen as a death sentence," he said.

Most antiretrovirals are taken in tablet form and combined with other drugs can mean taking up to 30 tablets daily. It's a small price to pay when, helped by a healthy lifestyle and, perhaps, a measure of good luck, a person with HIV/AIDS can now survive the worst ravages of the disease.

"However, the fact remains that HIV/AIDS is still a major health issue with no known cure," said Jen Ireland, manager of the Lismore-based Sexual Health & AIDS Service. "So the message of promoting safe sex and safe drug injecting remains as important as ever."

Along with the good news about survival, however, has come the danger of complacency, with some younger at-risk people feeling there is now a 'cure' for AIDS and they don't need to be as careful as in the past.

This trend is confirmed by recent statistics from the NSW Chief Health Officer's 2004 Report showing that 414 NSW residents were diagnosed with HIV for the first time in 2003, an increase of 6 per cent on the previous year and 22 per cent above 2001.

In Australia around 14,000 people are now living with HIV/AIDS, and more than 6000 Australians have died in the 20-plus years since the epidemic was recognised.

Many of them are remembered in the panels of the Australian AIDS Memorial Quilt, which were unveiled at locations around the region this week to mark World AIDS Day (today, December 1).

The panels are artistic memorials to those who have died of HIV/AIDS. The names and lifespans of those remembered are incorporated into sections of the panel, along with collages of diverse items such as clothing, childhood toys, family photos and embroidery.

The panels generate a range of emotions, from sadness to humour, as they encapsulate the lives of people dear to their friends, family and lovers.

The Australian deaths might only be a fraction of the global problem - five people worldwide die of the disease every minute of every day - but they are a sobering reminder of the need for caution.

Centrelink reviews claw back $4 million

Centrelink audits of almost 45,000 people in Ballina, Lismore and Casino have resulted in local welfare recipients being forced to pay back more than $4 million in excess payments.

In the Lismore region, Centrelink conducted 22,448 reviews of customers' records last financial year. The checks resulted in payments being either reduced or cancelled in 13 per cent of cases, while debts worth $2,298,465 must be repayed.

A similar situation occurred in the Ballina region with Centrelink conducting 22,421 reviews, resulting in 14 per cent of cases having payments either reduced or cancelled, with debts worth $1,726,645 raised against the customers concerned.

Centrelink Business Integrity manager for the area, Peter Kentwell, said that in many cases the debts were the result of customers not updating their details.

While many were considered honest mistakes, some people were charged with fraud.

In Ballina, a 32-year-old man was prosecuted after he failed to declare his partner's income over 29 months, resulting in him falsely obtaining $13,537. He received a 24-month good behaviour bond in October this year and was ordered to repay the full amount.

In Casino, a 24-year-old woman was charged for failing to declare her income while receiving the youth allowance over five months in 2001. She received an 18-month good behaviour bond in September and is repaying $4124.63.

In happier instances, some people had their payments increased following the review.

Mr Kentwell said that Centrelink was working on ways to make it easier for customers to keep their details up to date.

"We're introducing new customer account statements to help people keep track of the information they've given Centrelink. Most income support customers will receive a statement by June 2006," he said. "The statements will include information such as declared earnings, income and assets, and if applicable, debt balances and repayments."

Mr Kentwell said the easiest way to avoid debt is to report any changes in circumstances immediately by calling 136 280, or by visiting your nearest Centrelink office.

Stay away from snakes, mate

WIRES snake handler Rhianna Blackthorn removed this seven-foot carpet python from a property between Lismore and Casino. Rhianna says a snake of this size would be at least 50 years old.

A rough scale snake, the 17th most deadly in the world, that was removed from chicken wire at a house in Rosebank by WIRES handlers recently after he and his girlfriend became entangled while mating.

With the snake mating season underway, the serpents are out and about, although they're not as alluring for residents as each other.

Snake handler Rhianna Blackthorn, from wildlife rescue group WIRES Northern Rivers, says having the hots also means the snakes are more agitated and defensive than usual.

Following a high number of calls in recent weeks, Rhianna says the old adage "if you leave them alone, they'll leave you alone" still holds true.

The best way to avoid being bitten is to steer clear of snakes entirely. If you're venturing into the garden wear sturdy footwear as snakes use vibration to "see" and bare feet muffle the warning.

"Snakes are actually shy animals preferring to move away and hide or lie still in the hope of being overlooked," Rhianna said. "If you do find a snake in your yard it will only be passing through. They do not live in our yards because of the lack of suitable food and shelter and their fear of humans. "However, they may be attracted to gardens for short periods in search of water. Keep your grass mown and garden waste to a minimum, which will help to discourage these visits. Also try to provide an alternate water source away from home, like shallow dishes that can collect rainwater or be easily refilled."

If you do have a problem, phone the WIRES 24-hour hotline on 6628 1898 and a professional snake handler will help.

Baby boomers flock to Northern Rivers

The mass exodus of baby boomers from Sydney and Melbourne to the Northern Rivers region will have far-reaching economic and social impacts, according to one of Australia's leading experts on demography and social change, Bernard Salt (pictured).

The best selling author and social trends analyst will outline the opportunities and dangers of this population shift at the East Coast Mortgage Trust Bernard Salt Lecture at Southern Cross University next Tuesday, December 6, at 10.05am.

Mr Salt says there has been a fundamental shift in Australian settlement and values over the last 30 years. As a result people have moved as a nation from the bush to the suburbs and now, in the 21st century, are heading in increasing numbers to the Far North Coast of NSW.

"The North Coast's recent population growth is the tip of the iceberg as many more Australians plan their city escape," he said.

This city exodus is setting the region's business agenda and is being underpinned by the ageing of baby boomers.

North Coast property, health and financial services, government and retail sectors will all be impacted by this population shift.

East Coast Mortgage Trust chief executive Scott Collis said the impact of Mr Salt's predictions was already having an impact.

"Property prices have risen, in some cases dramatically, as retiring baby boomers scramble for a position on the coast," he said. "Whilst this could be great for our region's economy, the challenge we face is the need for better roads to cope with this influx and better integrated regional planning and infrastructure. With all this development we must retain our region's beauty and ensure it continues as a great place for us all to live."

The public is welcome to attend the Bernard Salt lecture in the Whitebrook Theatre at the Lismore campus. To reserve a free seat phone Loma on 6620 3354.

ACE reprieve with funding increase

Fears for the future of Adult Community Education (ACE) North Coast were allayed earlier this week when a spokesperson for NSW education minister Carmel Tebbutt announced a 12.5 per cent increase in funding for the college in 2006.

ACE principal Jim Nicholls said he was pleased with the increase after being informed by The Echo. However, the increase has come at a cost for other colleges, which weren't so lucky as the NSW Government slashed overall funding by nearly $2 million.

"It is good news for ACE North Coast. The increase will keep us going but it means that another provider somewhere is missing out," Mr Nicholls said. "From a purely selfish context, it's great, but the problem of funding being cut each year will continue to plague community colleges throughout NSW."

Mr Nicholls said he was also concerned about a 27 per cent cut in literacy funding, as this was an integral part of the education programs community colleges provide.

"We are devastated by this cut, because one of our main objectives is adult and youth literacy," Mr Nicholls said. "We are there for the people who have missed out on learning these basic skills elsewhere and for some, we are their only avenue to learn how to read and write."

Education minister Carmel Tebbutt tried to blame the federal Government for the NSW Government's actions, claiming they were 'short-changed' to the tune of $345 million.

"Funding is focused on education and training courses that improve people's career prospects and help address critical skill shortages within the NSW economy," the Minister said. "While colleges are still free to run leisure and hobby courses, they will no longer be subsidised by the taxpayer to do so."

You know it makes Sense

It's a mad, crazy world, but the one person who's helped make sense of it - and given us plenty of laughs along the way - is The Echo's entertainment writer, S Sorrensen, through his much-loved weekly column S Sense.

For the last 18 months, 3 days and 49 seconds (but who's counting) Echo readers have been given something to think about, and a chuckle, as S tackled both the big and small issues, from the clear felling of Tassie forests and the perils of uranium mining to how to drive a houseboat without spilling a cocktail and the pitfalls of parenting (his mum wrote a guest column).

And now, just in time for Christmas, he's launching a book of his collected wit and wisdom featuring all the stuff you've read before for free, except now you get to pay for it!

The launch of The essential S Sense: Diary of a changing world is next Friday, December 9, at Caddies Coffee Shop in Lismore from 6pm.

There's free stuff, performances, readings by local identities, and of course S has lashed out on refreshments, with Jatz, cheese and cask wine for all!

Faith restored after low blow

Lismore Heights resident Tanya McCall with Rvbyesque proprietor Alan Morris, who launched an appeal to raise money to cover her expenses and replace her friend's bike, which was stolen after Tanya crashed two weeks ago.

Life was pedalling along nicely for Tanya McCall until a heartless thief stole her bicycle as she lay unconscious by the side of the road following a cycling accident. The callous thief also stole the 18-year-old Lismore Heights resident's handbag.

"I could have had a broken neck or fluid on the brain and this low-life has robbed me when I clearly needed medical assistance," Tanya said. "It makes me sick to think that someone is out there with that bike."

She's badly bruised, with a fractured thumb, and is keen to find $500 to replace the bike she'd borrowed from a friend. And just as Tanya was losing her faith in humanity, along came good Samaritan Alan Morris. Tanya was visiting his store, Rvbyesque, when curiosity got the better of him and he asked Tanya what happened. When she recounted her woes, Alan was inspired to launch an appeal to raise funds on her behalf.

Donations for the bike and to help with Tanya's medical expenses can be left with Alan Morris at Rvbyesque in Carrington Street, Lismore (opposite Caddies) or phone 6622 4676.

Lock up and keep thieves out

Richmond Local Area Command crime prevention officer Michael Hogan and Lismore resident Graeme Hoskins, the recent victim of a break-in, with a new booklet that outlines home security measures.

When Lismore's Graeme Hoskins awoke to find a stranger in his bedroom recently, he said it was a "frightening" experience, made all the more distressing when he discovered the thief had stolen his wife's engagement and eternity rings.

Graeme had left the door of his Hunter Street home unlocked and the thief had simply walked in - a situation that Richmond Local Area Command crime prevention officer Michael Hogan says is all too familiar.

Senior Constable Hogan said 95 per cent of break and enters are committed by offenders entering through unlocked doors and windows, and with a recent spate of break-ins in the Lismore area, he is warning residents to be mindful of locking up at all times.

"Offenders often try doors and windows to see if they're open, and many are brave enough to go into a house and steal even when the residents are home," Constable Hogan said. "I know the weather's hot but there are simply ways, such as installing security screens and windows, to keep you safe from thieves. I know we shouldn't have to worry about these things but it's a fact of life."

Graeme said the recent break-in at his home had taught him a valuable lesson.

"You don't expect to find someone standing in your room when you wake up and it frightens the daylights out of you. I felt invaded and my wife Ann felt it even more because they were her belongings that were stolen," Graeme said. "She's had those rings for 30 years and they hold a lot of sentimental value. We'll certainly be more careful in the future."

As well as installing security doors and windows, local Police have many other simple ideas to help people stay safe at home, including the installation of security lights or deadbolts and padlocks for garages. These and many other home safety measures feature in a booklet produced by the Richmond LAC, which is now available at Lismore Police Station. Alternatively, phone Constable Hogan on 6623 1523 for further advice.

Kyogle in the best of health

Kyogle Health Service Planning and Steering Committee chairman Tom Fitzgerald, Kyogle Memorial Health executive officer/director of nursing Liz Clarke and NSW Health Minister John Hatzistergos at the opening of the Kyogle Memorial Health Service this week.

Story & photo
Julian Ryan

Tom Fitzgerald has fought for state-of-the-art health facilities for his town, Kyogle, for more than a decade, so when NSW health minister John Hatzistergos opened the town's $9.4 million Memorial Health Service this week, Tom had every reason to celebrate.

Tom's campaign began when he visited a friend at the old Kyogle Hospital back in 1994 and was appalled at the conditions. He knew something had to be done.

Following a series of public meetings Tom formed the Kyogle Health Service Planning and Steering Committee. As chairman he began lobbying the North Coast Area Health Service and the state and federal Governments for an upgrade.

"Ten years ago the hospital was a disgrace," Tom said. "Now, to have this wonderful facility in our town, is a great victory for the community, which contributed $240,000 towards the project. I'm absolutely elated."

Tom said there were times when he felt like giving up in frustration with all the red tape. He thanked the committee members for their support and the community for their generosity.

"I would particularly like to thank Lismore MP Thomas George and North Coast Area Health Service director of population health and planning, Vahid Saberi, for their efforts in helping to deliver this service to the people of Kyogle," Tom said.

"Our next challenge is to work to get a higher level of paediatric care services and to attract more GPs to Kyogle."

The Kyogle Memorial Health Service is twice the size of the former hospital and was jointly funded by the NSW Government, which contributed $9.4 million, and the federal Government, which funded 25 aged care beds and six community aged care packages.

The health service includes a 24-hour emergency department with 12 acute care beds and a community health care centre as well as an isolation room for infectious patients and a radiology department.

The landscaping was funded from community donations.

The Health Minister praised everyone involved in the project.

"Having recently marked the centenary of the founding of the Kyogle Memorial Hospital the community has even more reason to feel proud of this," Mr Hatzistergos said.

During his visit to the Northern Rivers, the Minister also inspected the recent enhancement work at Lismore Base Hospital and the expansion and redevelopment work at the Mental Health Unit.

Kyogle child abduction hunt

Local detectives are investigating the alleged abduction attempt of an 11-year-old girl at Kyogle on Tuesday morning.

Around 8.20am the girl was riding her bicycle along the Summerland Way to St Bridget's School when a man crossed the road and grabbed the girl by her backpack. She broke free by punching out at him and rode off in the direction of the school, reporting the incident to the school principal, who contacted Kyogle Police. The girl was upset but otherwise unharmed.

Her attacker is described as Caucasian, 50-plus years old, plumpish with grey receding hair and wearing a red T-shirt and glasses.

Any information to Casino Police on 6662 0099 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Mental Health Safari comes to the Northern Rivers

The Rotary Mental Health Safari is coming to the Northern Rivers to raise awareness about the nature of mental illness and how it can be treated.

The Safari unit will be parked in Woodlark Street, Lismore (outside the Gollan) this Friday, December 2, from 2-5pm, and at the Missingham Park markets, Ballina, this Sunday, December 4, from 10am-1pm.

The Safari is funded by the Australian Rotary Health Research Fund, and is designed to provide a place where people can ask questions and seek advice on the issues surrounding mental illness.

For more information phone 6622 6244.

Council backs coastal upgrade

Julian Ryan

Ballina Council has gone against the push by local MPs for a new inland route for the Pacific Highway and will urge the RTA to upgrade the coastal route.

The move came during a feisty debate at last week's meeting, which saw the Mayor and Cr Sharon Cadwallader clash over the issue.

Cr Cadwallader sought to have the inland route option considered as a matter of urgency, but mayor Phillip Silver overruled her.

Cr Cadwallader pushed for a dissent motion against the Mayor's ruling, but failed to attract any support from her colleagues.

She was supporting the inland route option, saying it was a true reflection of what the community wants, but her colleagues did not share her view.

"I'm not saying that we don't want or need a Ballina and Alstonville bypass forthwith. What I am saying is that there is a far better option for heavy freight transport which is inland," Cr Cadwallader said. "I'm not going to give up on this one because the community doesn't want a motorway through some of the best land in the world."

But when the matter was put to the vote the majority, with the exception of Cr John Felsch and Cr Cadwallader, supported options A and B, which avoid the Cumbalum Ridge, but still use the existing highway route through Knockrow.

To market, to market

Gearing up for the Rainbow Region Organic Market's sixth birthday next Tuesday are local organic farmers (l-r) David Roby, Elly Oort and David Forrest.

There's nothing quite like biting into a fresh, organic tomato picked straight from the garden, except maybe enjoying it on organic bread with fresh macadamia pesto and an organic, solar-heated cup of coffee.

You can try all these things and discover many more at the Rainbow Region Organic Market's sixth birthday celebration next Tuesday, December 6. The day will also feature entertainment and performances, cooking demonstrations, free organic treats and the opportunity to meet others who believe in the philosophy of growing and buying organic.

Market volunteer Russell Scott said the market aims to bring producers and shoppers together to discuss ideas for the garden and recipes for the kitchen, and work together towards a sustainable future.

"The Rainbow Region Organic Market is not just a market - it's a way of life," Russell said. "It's also about developing an extended family - the market has a very friendly, lively atmosphere and people talk and share, and kids play together. It's a truly wonderful and inspiring thing to be part of."

The Rainbow Region Organic Market's sixth birthday market is on at the Lismore Showgrounds next Tuesday from 8-11am. Community groups, performers and organic business people are welcome to have a free stall on the day. For info phone Russell on 6689 1668. And bring your own carry-bag or basket to reduce packaging and waste.

Donation helps save lives in the surf

Margaret Hicks, jet ski donor Peter Menegazzo and Ballina Jet Boat Surf Rescue president Pat O'Connor in Ballina last week.

Margaret Hicks fights back tears when she thinks of her son Matthew, who drowned at Shelly Beach last year, but was comforted by a life saving donation that may prevent similar tragedies occurring in the future.

Last week Margaret joined Ballina landowner Peter Menegazzo when he donated new $20,000 jet ski to the Ballina Jet Boat Surf Rescue.

Margaret thanked Mr Menegazzo for his thoughtfulness and generosity.

"It's terrible to think that my son had to die before people decided to do something about surf safety, and for a man who is very new to the district this is a wonderful way for him to introduce himself," Margaret said. "The Council now patrols the main beaches in the shire for seven months a year, but when it gets to 12 months I will be happy."

Ballina Jet Boat Surf Rescue president Pat O'Connor said the new jet ski will help them respond more quickly to emergencies.

"It's very fast and maneuverable and will give our service better options in dealing with rescues, particularly on the Ballina Bar," he said.

Ballina Shire Council also chipped in by donating 300 litres of fuel and Mr Menegazzo has pledged to replace the jet ski with a new model in four years time.

Cool change for Meals on Wheels

Rich and Troy from local company Shore Cool working hard on the new refrigeration systems as part of the redevelopment of the Meals on Wheels Centre in Goonellabah.

The Goonellabah Meals on Wheels Centre is renovating its production area so it can offer even more meals to more clients.

Manager Cathie Eames said the renovations, which include a new cool room and freezer, were made possible thanks to a $87,000 NSW Government grant.

"We are really delighted with the support that we have received from the Department of Aging, Disability and Home Care, and the local politicians who helped us to secure the funding," Cathie said.

Meals on Wheels is always looking for volunteers to help with deliveries and food preparation, and new clients in the Lismore and Alstonville areas are welcome.

For details, phone 6624 8215.

Reunion brings back briny memories

Lismore Naval Cadets (l-r) seaman Max Drosdeck, Ashleigh Radford and leading seaman David Gregg formed part of the departure party on Tuesday afternoon when the HMAS Brunei left Ballina after taking part in the 23rd All Ships Reunion.

Organisers of last weekend's 23rd All Ships Reunion in Ballina say the event was a resounding success with former shipmates from all over Australia getting together to enjoy the celebrations and a few salty old tales.

Ballina Naval Association committee member Brian Walsh said it was wonderful to have the HMAS Brunei and her crew in town for the reunion and said preparations for next year's event are already underway.

"This year was a fantastic reunion with around 300 ex-navy personnel enjoying a formal dinner at the Ballina RSL Club on Saturday night before our street parade down River Street and church service on Sunday," Brian said. "I would particularly like to pay tribute to the naval cadets from the TS Lismore who assisted in the berthing party and the departure of the HMAS Brunei because they are very well trained and did a professional job."

The HMAS Brunei set sail for Cairns on Tuesday afternoon and will return to Ballina next year to take part in Anzac Day ceremonies.

Funding boost for Naval Museum

The Ballina Naval and Maritime Museum has been awarded $187,000 under the federal Government's Regional Partnerships program.

Page MP Ian Causley said the funds would cover the costs of architect fees, construction and the fit-out of the 340-square metre extension.

"The extension will consolidate the museum as a major cultural destination in the heart of Ballina. Since opening in 1979, this acclaimed museum has collected extensive exhibits and memorabilia from all over the world," Mr Causley said. "The museum also tells the rich history of Ballina and the Richmond River, and this Regional Partnerships project will enable more people - including school students - to better understand this history."

The improvements are predicted to see visitor numbers almost quadruple to 45,000 people per annum within three years.

Health workers lobby against IR changes

Presenting Page MP Ian Causley with a bundle of letters protesting against the proposed industrial relations laws last week were Lismore Base Hospital staff (l-r) Lorraine Black, Leisa Sowelu, Mary-Lou Fraser and Angela Saul.

Lismore Base Hospital staff handed Page MP Ian Causley with more than 200 letters complaining about the proposed changes to industrial relations laws last week.

They claim the new system will disadvantage local health workers and raised concerns about their entitlements being eroded.

Mr Causley said after the legislation is changed all pay rates and penalties will remain and people will in fact be better off.

"I am not a person that likes to see anyone lose," he said, before going to make a promise his Prime Minister has specifically avoided offering: "I can guarantee that after the changes are made no one will be disadvantaged," Mr Causley said.

Big Scrub still the environmental hub

Big Scrub Environment Centre members (l-r) Liina Flynn, Cr Vanessa Ekins, Alan Roberts, Nadine Miller and Graeme Batterbury are inviting people to become more involved with local environmental issues by attending the organisation's AGM next Thursday.

While the Big Scrub Environment Centre (BSEC) has left the earthly world of its shopfront and catapulted into cyberspace, the team of dedicated volunteers who run the organisation are no less passionate about being the regional hub for environmental campaigning.

The BSEC recently launched a monthly e-journal in addition to its comprehensive website so people can network and share concerns about local environmental issues. People are now being encouraged to use the BSEC as a central point of contact to ensure local campaigns are unified in their approach.

"In the current national political climate, there are so many issues of environmental concern which are being dealt with in isolation by dedicated campaigners," said BSEC secretary, Liina Flynn. "Rous Water, for example, is looking for alternative drinking water supply options and this is creating huge environmental issues. Similarly, the issue of the RTA's proposed highway upgrade has activated many regional communities who have undertaken their own environmental research. "At the BSEC we want to provide a base where people can discuss and coordinate local environmental campaigns because the more cohesive we are at a grass roots level, the more impact we can have in steering policy and decision making."

People interested in joining the BSEC are invited to the organisation's AGM next Thursday, December 8, at the Rainforest Information Centre (13 Wotherspoon Street, North Lismore) from 6pm. Nominations for office bearers are still welcome. Phone Valerie on 6689 5205.

Alternatively, anyone who would like to subscribe to the e-journal or contribute articles should email info@bigscrub.org.au. For general information on local issues and campaigns visit www.bigscrub.org.au.

Community garden

Local organic farmers are seeking feedback on establishing an organic community market garden in Lismore.

The inaugural community market garden meeting is on next Thursday, December 8, at the Lismore Workers Club from 7.30pm.

If you can't attend the meeting but want to register your interest or support phone Dan on 6621 6113 or Heather on 6622 1750.

Sports day for people with disabilities

This Friday, December 2, Lismore City Council will celebrate International Day of People with a DisAbility with a 'Sports For All' free sports day for people with disabilities.

Activities on the day include a tour of the Lismore Memorial Baths and lunch plus table tennis, indoor bowls and tandem bike rides at the Goonellabah Table Tennis and Sports Club Centre. There will also be a free coaching workshop from 9.30am and 12pm.

The day begins at the Memorial Baths at 10am.

For more info or to reserve a spot in the coaching workshop phone 6625 0458.