Issue 735
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Main NewsRiverbank Funds Boost
A lobbying trip to Canberra by Lismore City Council staff last week has paid off handsomely, with the Federal Government pledging $303,600 towards the city's riverbank redevelopment. MP Ian Causley announced the funds saying the project would provide commercial opportunities for Lismore's CBD, as well as raising awareness of important historical sites and nurturing a number of Aboriginal small businesses. 'The Wilson River development will provide traineeships in landscaping and it is envisaged employment opportunities will be generated through the small businesses established as a result of the project,' he said. The money will go towards infrastructure on the western bank, like interpretive signage on the city's history, a kiosk, toilets, cycleways, a viewing platform, revegetation and a boat hire shed. Lismore Council has gathered close to $850,000 in funding and sponsorship towards the $1.2 million cost of the first two of six stages. Initial work will focus on the Bundjalung Nature Park on the western bank, and on the eastern side, the widening of the boat ramp, plus a floating pontoon. NSW Waterways is providing $162,500 for improved boating facilities, and State Rail pledged $200,000 towards restoring the historic railway wharf. NSW TAFE is providing 15 landscape trainees for 15 months, with a total value of $246,000. Lismore Council is contributing $188,000 in cash. Riverbank redevelopment officer Lois Kelly, who met with Employment Minister Mal Brough to press the case for the funding, said the project has received overwhelming business and community support. 'This is a major investment with cultural, social and economic benefits. The community support for it has been excellent,' Ms Kelly said. 'Hurfords has donated land worth $68,000, Southern Cross University is providing $30,000 of in-kind support for a medicinal herb garden, the Wilsons River Landcare group's support is valued at $43,000, and the Richmond River Historical Society has donated a 1932 ketch, The Rainbow, worth $10,000. It used to ply the river and we're hoping TAFE maritime students will be able to renovate the ketch and use it on the river for training.' Council's general manager, Ken Gainger, who led the delegation, said he was thrilled by the Federal contribution. 'This redevelopment will revitalise both sides of the river through the CBD,' he said. 'More recently, Lismore turned its back on the river - which is the historical reason why the city was founded. This project will bring the river back in to the daily life of Lismore and its business activity and provide a new sense of community spirit.' Mr Gainger said the only hold up now was State Rail's money for the the South Lismore railway wharf. 'It has been promised but Sydney bureaucrats have been trying to place unreasonable demands on the funding. We also met with the NSW transport minister, Carl Scully, and we're hopeful the log jam will be cleared soon,' he said. Along with new parks and recreation areas, the project will also feature shops, restaurants, visitor services and river-based activities. When completed, the project is expected to attract an additional 35,000 visitors a year to Lismore, injecting up to $4 million in to the city's economy. Simon Thomsen Legacy Widows Never Forget
Lillian Eutick was one of more than 50 widows who attended a Legacy Week memorial service on Wednesday to honour the memory of their late husbands and the sacrifice they made for their country. For Lillian it brings back painful memories of the day her husband, Malvin, died in 1956, leaving her alone with two young children, little financial security and an empty place in her heart. 'The first few Legacy days after Malvin died were very difficult, but after 40 years I feel like, to some extent, I've overcome that totally empty feeling that used to be so overwhelming,' Lillian said. 'For me it's always the little things I remember... the way Malvin used to laugh and his love for fishing. It's certainly an emotional experience but I wouldn't miss it for the world.' Since her husband passed away, the Lismore Legacy Club has provided Lillian and hundreds of other war widows with financial support, advice and assistance over the years. More importantly, the club is a place where Lillian and other widows of ex-servicemen can meet to share their stories. 'All the Legacy widows have a very strong bond... an unspoken understanding that we'll always share,' Lillian said. 'We always get together and reminisce about our men and the times we used to share, both happy and sad. It's just comforting to know the Legacy Club is there and that you've always got someone to depend on. Life would have been a lot harder without them - whenever we need help the legatees come and try to make life easier for us.' The Lismore Legacy Club has been established for 55 years. Its eight divisions, between Evans Head and the border, care for more than 3,000 widows - and it continues to grow each year. And that's why club secretary, Mike McBride, is calling on the local community to dig deep and give generously during the annual Legacy Badge Day tomorrow, September 7. Volunteers, local school students and airforce cadets will be selling legacy badges around the CBD all day, and people can spend anywhere between 50 cents and $25. Badges will also be on sale at the village barrow in Magellan Street and stalls will be erected outside the South Lismore Newsagency, Hardware House, Lismore Central, Lismore Shopping Square, Farmer Charlie's and the Coles Supermarket in Goonellabah. 'Only about 50 per cent of the 3,000 widows in the area are receiving a war widows pension, so the Legacy Club fills in the gaps,' Mike said. 'We help in any way we can, from repainting someone's house or fixing their stairs to installing a medical alert system or providing someone with a wheelchair. We can only do this with continued support from the community, so please give generously.' And while no donation can lessen the pain Lillian and the other widows feel each year, it will at least show that the spirit in which their husbands fought is still alive today. Story & photo: Terra Sword
Been There, Done That for Federation Babies
Good parents, a good husband and a good family is the secret to a fulfilling life, according to Ella Beatrice Murphy, who recently celebrated her 101st birthday. Ella and her best friend Annie Rowan, who turned 100 in April, were pleasantly surprised last week when Federal MP Ian Causley took the time to congratulate them on their milestones and present with a special Centenary of Federation certificate. 'I never expected to live this long, so now I just take it one day at a time,' Ella said. 'I've definitely had a fulfilling life and for that I'm thankful.' Mr Causley said Ella and Annie are two of seven people in the Northern Rivers who have notched up 100 or older this year. Story & photo: Terra Sword Parental Support by the Book
The 117 students from Rous Public School had 10,000 reasons to celebrate Book Week recently, after the school bought a new reading scheme worth $10,000. The school's P&C Association, made it possible after donating $15,000 raised from the annual Bonfire Night in June, as well as individual donations from parents. The remaining $5,000 will be spent on new resources for the mathematics classrooms including new textbooks, measuring jugs, stop watches and calculators. The school was also the recipient of a $300 library grant last week, with which the school purchased all the books recently short-listed for awards by the Children's Book Council of Australia. 'After six months spent studying the children and their strengths and weaknesses we identified that literary comprehension was where most students needed help, hence the new reading scheme,' principal Kate Moore said. Terra Sword Alstonville Talks to AustraliaABC-TV's new Thursday night forum, 'Australia Talks', will broadcast live from Alstonville on Thursday night September 20. Alstonville is the first NSW town to feature in the George Negus-hosted travelling show which began a month ago by talking to people in Mt Isa, Queensland. The program's Executive Producer, Graeme Shenton, Mr Graham said that the village, with a population of 4725, is one of the smallest places visited. 'Located between Lismore and Ballina, Alstonville suits because it is central and technically it is a good location,' he said. 'It's very important for these programs to draw from the region and not just the town. In Bridgetown, for example, we had people drive a couple of hundred kilometres to be in the show, so as an event it was a real winner.' Panellists for the Alstonville episode are still being finalised, as 'Australia Talks' aims to be as topical as possible. However, people in the northern NSW region can register now to be in the audience. To register, go to www.abc.net.au/australiatalks or phone 1800-331182. 'Be early so as not to be disappointed, as the Alstonville venue will have limited seating,' Mr Shenton said.
Second Arrest over DoCs ThreatsLismore detectives have arrested a second man over another round of threats against staff at the Lismore Dept. of Community Services (DoCs) office. Police arrested Michael John Thorn, 25, of Ocean Shores on Tuesday, following an investigation into threats allegedly made last Thursday, August 30. On the same day, a 52-year-old carnival workers was appearing in Lismore Local Court over threats allegedly made to the office the previous week. Thorn has been charged with Intimidation and using a telecommunication device to harass and menace, he has been bailed to appear in Lismore Local Court today. Meanwhile, the other man has been refused bail after magistrate Jeff Linden was told that he allegedly threatened to shoot a female DoCs worker if he was denied access to his children. Defending solicitor Tom Trembath said the allegations against his client were grossly exaggerated.
House FireA 100-year-old timber house in Hollingsworth Street, South Lismore, was totally destroyed by fire on Tuesday night. The house was unoccupied at the time and neighbours alerted police and the fire brigade about the blaze around 6.30pm. The brigade had difficulties locating a hydrant in the street, and the house, which was used for processing and storing honey, burnt to the ground. The owner arrived at the scene in time to save a pet dog and several chooks in the back yard from the blaze. Brothel AttackA Lismore man has been charged with a range of sexual assault offences following an alleged attack on a sex worker in a Lismore brothel. David Allan Roberts, 20, of Goonellabah, has been charged with indecent assault, assault with intent to have sexual intercourse, assault causing bodily harm and assault after he allegedly attacked the woman in her premises in the early hours of Sunday morning on August 26. Police say the man allegedly tried to remove the woman's clothing, and hit her with a telephone before choking and punching her. On Sunday, September 2, the victim called police after spotting her attacker while she was driving through Lismore. Roberts has pleaded not guilty to the charges after appearing in Lismore Local Court on Monday. He was refused bail and will appear again on September 10.
Teven Road SmashThree people were injured in a car accident on the Teven Road, Alstonville, on Wednesday, August 29. Police say a 49-year-old Myocum man was driving south in his Holden ute when he crossed on to the wrong side of the road and collided head on with a Ford Falcon sedan being driven by a 60-year-old Alstonville man, accompanied by his 51-year-old wife. The ute was burnt out in the accidents. The injured people where taken to Lismore hospital for treatment.
Woodburn CelebratesThe Woodburn Chamber of Commerce is celebrating the Centenary of Federation and the International Year of the Volunteer with a special 'Spring Afternoon of Celebration in the Park'. The fun kicks off at 11am, and the day will feature a range of activities, including music from local country music legend Marge Graham, a BBQ lunch, a football codes tug-of-war, fishing club casting competition, mock disaster demonstrations by the SES and rural fire brigade, Federation games for kids, school choir performances, ballet and rock 'n' roll dance performances, the unveiling of Woodburn's new Federation 'naming log', and even a hot rod display. The CWA will supply devonshire tea. The day concludes with a 'bush bash' at the Memorial Hall from 7pm, featuring ju band Ragweed. Tickets are $15 at the door. The daytime celebrations are free. Lismore LotterySomeone in Lismore is $10,000 richer after winning second prize in Tuesday's draw of the $2 jackpot lottery. The player bought their ticket, numbered 280, from the newsagency at Lismore Central Shopping Centre.
Nimbin Shows Great Vision
Visitors to Nimbin over the coming month will discover even more colour and excitement than usual when the annual Visions of Nimbin festival kicks off on September 15. Now in its third year, Visions of Nimbin is a month-long celebration of the village's creative side, according to festival co-ordinator Tim Tonkin. Events range from the Nimbin Open Garden program to the Nimbin A&I Society Show. In between you can kick up your heels at the Visions of Nimbin Ball or get into the ambience at a Dance Party. Youth are catered for with a number of activities including a Kids Concert, BMX demonstrations and a Kidz Fun Day. The inaugural Bundjalung Collaborative Arts Awards will join the Spring Arts Festival in providing a range of craft, painting and sculpture, plus there will also be the opening of a new art gallery in the village. Add poetry, a local film festival, variety night, art auction and a chess tournament and there's something for everyone. 'This year's program also include a number of events highlighting the philosophy behind the Nimbin lifestyle, including permaculture courses, alternative power seminars and natural healing demonstrations,' Tim said. 'It's also a major fundraiser for the Nimbin Community Centre.' 'With more than 25 major events over the 28 days, we aim to highlight the work of the many artists, musicians, dancers, performers, poets,, photographers and other locals.'
Local Parole Service Turns 25The Lismore Probation and Parole Service had a surprise visit from assistant commissioner, Catriona McComish last week, who came to celebrate the service's 50th birthday and present long service medals to staff.
Local businesses and community organisations were also given certificates of appreciation for their involvement in the community service order program. There are 5,000 offenders in NSW who are serving community service orders. The Lismore Probation and Parole Service office opened in 1976. A battle over the use of Alstonville pool to train swimmers has led to Ballina Council has reaffirmed the Alstonville Swimming Club's right to sole use of training lanes during the summer season. The Club asked council to clarify its position following concerns about the Masterstroke Aquatic Club's website, which offered training sessions at the Alstonville Pool during the 2001 -2002 season. Masterstroke, now at the Ballina Fair Swim and Gym, had used the Alstonville Pool as a temporary training facility earlier this year after its Goonellabah swimming complex closed. Masterstroke's head coach, David Oxer, was managing the complex. Alstonville Swimming club member Vicki Wise told Council that the club considered Masterstroke's use of the pool had been a temporary arrangement. She said that to continue it would be detrimental to both clubs. 'While a number of other clubs use the heated pool during winter training, all are based at other facilities in summer,' Mrs Wise said. Masterstroke secretary Graham Canning said his club wished to use the pool to accommodate members from areas as far west as Casino. A contract guarantees the pool's management sole coaching rights with some exceptions, including the Alstonville Amateur Swimming Club.
Labor's Lismore Campaign Office Opens
The Coalition is riding high in the opinion polls following the Tampa refugee crisis, leading to increased speculation that the Federal election, due by the end of the year, will be called sooner, rather than later. Public support for the Government's stand is good news for the seat of Page's National Party incumbent Ian Causley, who faces a tough battle against the Labor candidate Terry Flanagan - a policy adviser to the man Mr Causley defeated for the seat, Harry Woods. Heating up the battle, Mr Flanagan opened a campaign office in Lismore, this week. Standing under the 'Country Labor' banner, Mr Flanagan claimed the Labor-in-a-Drizabone brand had 'swept rural NSW by storm'. 'Country Labor now boasts a party membership that is larger than the whole of either the Liberals or Nationals and is a real voice for the concerns of rural Australia,' he said. The campaign office is at 71 Molesworth Street, Lismore.
Wrong Postcode for Dr Crisis
Nimbin faces a serious doctor shortage - and even the closure of its hospital - by the end of the year unless the Commonwealth Department of Health relaxes the rules governing a scheme for training medical registrars. Under the scheme new doctors are eligible for a cash subsidy of $60,000 for spending their first three years of practice in a rural area. But registrars training in Nimbin cannot claim the subsidy because the village is deemed to have a population of more than 25,000 people - an anomaly due to sharing the Lismore postcode. The Nimbin Medical Centre currently has three doctors on staff - David Helliwell, Daniel Oxlee and Kevin Chiu. But Dr Helliwell also works three days a week at Lismore's new drug and alcohol centre and will take up a full time position there in January 2002. Dr Chiu, who is a registrar, may move at the end of this year in order to claim the subsidy. North Coast towns which qualify the subsidy include Byron Bay, Ballina, Alstonville and Casino. Dr Oxlee said the 1996 Census had 319 people living in Nimbin, with another 4000 living in the centre's catchment area. 'That reflects the patients we have on our books, but if the present situation continues the books may not be open much longer,' he said. 'We are one of the few practices that continues to bulk bill, but that is becoming a luxury in terms of overheads. We've had to refuse new patients several times in the past year because of holidays or our inability to attract a registrar. 'If the subsidy was available we could have four or five doctors working here.' The practice was recently allowed advertise for a doctor overseas, after failing to get a response to national advertisements. 'We have always wanted to have a woman GP, but they either don't want to work in the country or opt for an area where they can claim the subsidy,' Dr Oxlee said. 'I am supposed to have a new trainee coming in January but if they don't show I could be the only one here. That could lead to a serious reduction of the hospital's services or even its closure.' The NSW and Commonwealth governments recently used the population figure of 4000 to justify Nimbin's eligibility for a new Multi Purpose Service hospital and aged care facility. Despite writing to Health Minister, Dr Michael Woodridge, the matter appears to have been placed in the too hard basket, according to Dr Helliwell. 'One bureaucrat suggested that the easiest thing to do was to change our postcode,' he said. Dave Fawkner
Ballina's Journey of a Nation Expo
Ballina is expecting a big influx of visitors next week when it plays host to the Journey of a Nation - Centenary of Federation Expo, September 13 - 16. The expo documents Australia's first 100 years as a nation and covers areas including work, sport, cultural diversity and individual Australians. It will be held in five specially built pavilions at Kingsford Smith Park and open from 10am to 5pm daily. Mayor David Wright said hosting the expo, which is on a 25,000-km, 40-town journey around Australia, was a major coup for Ballina. 'We are the only town to host the expo between the Gold Coast and Port Macquarie,' Cr Wright said. 'I've been told that Ballina was chosen because of the magnificent job we did with the Olympic Torch reception last year.' Entry to the expo is free.
Lights Plan for Highway CrossingLismore City Council will consider installing 'pelican lights' for school students to cross the Bruxner Highway near the CBD when it meets next Tuesday. Cr Ros Irwin has put forward a motion to install the lights near Keen Street, where the pedestrian crossing was removed follow a recent upgrade of the road surface. The crossing has been replaced with pedestrian 'blisters' but parents, teachers and students from the nearby Albert Park School have complained that has become extremely difficult for them to cross the road in large groups. The Lismore Access Committee and disability support organisation Lismore Challenge have also complained that the new facility is difficult to use Mayor Bob Gates met with local residents recently to hear their concerns, then referred the matter back to council's Traffic Advisory Committee. The committee made the initial recommendation to remove the crossing because they believed it was 'unsafe' following reports from a nearby caryard of several 'near misses'. But committee member Mike Baldwin from the Roads and Traffic Authority said it was even less likely that the RTA would approve the pedestrian lights if it did not believe a pedestrian crossing was warranted. Instead, Mr Baldwin said he would examine the legalities of training the school teachers to act as traffic controllers to stop vehicles when the students want to cross the road. The committee also discussed an alternative proposal that community transport investigate taking the students to the CBD. The committee suggested an underpass would be the long term alternative. Council will decide whether it wants to pursue the lights option on Tuesday night.
Richmond River Tackles Acid Sulfate
Floodplain management authority Richmond River County Council has set up a special committee to tackle acid sulfate problems and fish stocks in the Richmond River in the wake of the February fish kills. County Council chairman Cr Frank Swientek said the committee will work with a range of organisations to deal with water quality, wetlands, floodgate operations and the impact of acid sulfate soils. 'The lower river supports a highly productive network of natural ecosystems, land uses and human activities,' Cr Swientek said. 'Agriculture, fishing and recreation/tourism activities interact with each other and with the natural environment that supports them. Often there is conflict and the health of the natural systems has been seen to suffer. The committee will address issues of concern to the community'. Meanwhile, farmers on the lower Richmond River have received a $101,000 grant to continue their work on controlling runoff from acid sulfate soils. The grant, part of the Coastal Acid Sulfate Soils Program, will be used by the Tuckean Swamp landcare group to carry out further floodgate works, drain management and drainage diversion to control acid in the swamp. The NSW Department of Land and Water Conservation has identified 21 acid-sulfate hot spots on the North Coast between Taree and Tweed Heads. Five of them - including the Tuckean Swamp - are on the Richmond River. Acid sulfate runoff was identified as one of the causes of the massive fish kill in the Richmond River following this year's February and March floods.
Nimbin's Law of the Jungle
The Jungle Patrol has found a new way to smarten up Nimbin. The group, initially set up to assist with crowd control during the annual Mardi Grass, has been awarded the Lismore City Council contract to clean the village's streets and public toilets. As well as helping to keep the village looking good it will also provide a greater presence for Jungle Patrol members on the street, according to the group's joint co-ordinators, Paul Le Bars and Linda Brooks. 'All will be equipped with radios so if there's and incident or an accident they will be able to contact the appropriate people immediately,' Mr Le Bars said. The group, which received its certificate of incorporation in August, can now operate as a non-profit organisation. 'The cleaning contract - along with funds from the Regional Solutions Program - will enable us to expand our security and community safety teams,' Ms Brooks said. 'Lismore City Council has been extremely helpful and considerate in handing the cleaning back to the community and we are grateful.' Mr Le Bars said that with more than 30 volunteers on the books and the addition of the cleaning contract, the Jungle Patrol now expected to have a presence on the streets between midday and 7am each day.
Op Shop Helps Overseas Villages
The Revival Fellowship in Lismore has recently opened a new op-shop, Revival Recycles, in the Lismore CBD to raise money for disadvantaged people in Africa, New Guinea and Fiji. Shop manager, Cheryl Patch, was inspired to set up the op-shop after she met delegates from other Revival Fellowship missions overseas during the church's World Convention on the Gold Coast in June. 'These people talked about the terrible conditions in their own countries and I guess it made us feel really guilty... but also very rich,' Cheryl said. 'They thought our small, portable home was so beautiful but they never once complained about their own homes or the way they have to live. They are such humble people and after being exposed to them first-hand we felt compelled to do something to help their plight.' Revival Recycles sells women's, men's, children and baby clothes as well as ladies handbags and a range of shoes. And while all the goods are donated, Cheryl says it's all top stuff. 'There's nothing here with stains or moth holes - it's all first class second-hand stuff,' laughed Cheryl. 'The comforting thing about buying from Revival Recycles is that people can be assured all the money they spend is going straight overseas. We have our own missions in Africa, New Guinea and Fiji where there are no paid staff or administration fees so not one cent is wasted along the way - it all goes straight to the villages where it's needed.' Revival Recycles is in the Star Court Arcade in Lismore and is open from Monday-Friday, from 9am-5pm and on Saturday, from 9am-12pm. If you'd like to make donations drop them into the shop or phone 0403 778 831.
Dam Failure Leaves Salty Taste for CouncilIrrigators on the lower Richmond River face an increase in salt in the river system over summer following the failure of the fabridam on Rocky Mouth Creek at Woodburn. The vulcanised-rubber dam can be inflated and deflated to control water flow in the creek, which links the Richmond and Evans rivers. It prevents salt water from the Evans River entering the Richmond during high tides, or is deflated to drain into the sea at Evans Head and Ballina during floods. It also enables parts of the Rocky Mouth Creek catchment - an area containing acid sulfate soils - to be flushed with fresh water through a series of floodgates The fabridam, which was installed in 1993, is supposed to have a life span of 30 years . It first failed in 1999 with a tear and repairs cost the council more than $40,000. It now has two one-metre-long splits along the 60 metre-long barrier. Richmond River County Council general manager Paul O'Sullivan said that council is 'negotiating' with the dam's manufacturer, Queensland Rubber over repairs. 'We suspect the seams have failed under the pressure of tidal movement, and it's up to Queensland Rubber to come up with a solution.' 'The major issue here is salt,' Mr O'Sullivan said. 'If it is not repaired by the time of low river flow in November there are likely to be increased salt levels in the Richmond, both through its own tidal flows and the backup from King tides on the Evans River. 'That has serious ramifications for upstream farmers who water stock and crops with river water.' Dave Fawkner
First Aid Saves Young Lives
The 15 students learnt how to do CPR and EAR, how to react in emergencies, how to control bleeding and how to treat shock, fractures, burns and poisons. 'You might not use it for 20 years but then again you might be involved in or near the scene of an accident next week - you never know when you might need that knowledge,' Alf said. 'Every young person should do a senior first aid course because it may one day save a life.' St John Ambulance is holding their next senior first aid course on Saturday and Sunday, September 15-16 at the Alstonville Adult Learning Centre from 8.30am-4.30pm daily, with another senior first aid course scheduled for October. To book phone Alf on 6624 4567 or 6621 8044.
Boat FoundersA boat which was being towed into Ballina by the Coast Guard after breaking down ran into trouble on the bar last Thursday. Police say the tourist boat 'Wildfire' ran into mechanical difficulties off Skennars Head, and was being towed back when it was hit by a number of waves in the moutb of the river. The towline broke and the boat's owner was thrown into the water. He was rescued after suffering abrasions to the head. Two further attempts to salvage the boat failed when the rope tow snapped again. It became entangled in the jet propulsion unit of the Ballina-Lismore Surf Lifesaving club's rescue boat, causing further difficulties. The Wildfire was anchored 300m north of the bar, but broke away from its mooring over night and was washed up on Shelley Beach.
Nimbin Family Centre Opens
Parenting is said to be the hardest job in the world, and no time is more stressful for a new parent than the first few years of their child's life. The troubles associated with bringing up a baby are compounded even further for people in isolated areas like Nimbin, where there are few services and little support. However all that has changed since the opening of the Nimbin Family Centre. The centre is part of the State Government's Families First initiative and according to coordinator, Mel Lina, it will serve as both a popular meeting place for young parents as well as a service referral and parenting information house. 'You don't automatically become a good parent when you have a baby, you need to learn how to be a good parent,' she said. 'And that's what the centre's here to do, help parents through difficult times and give them support. More specifically the centre has an early childhood nurse running clinics every week and parents have access to child and family, health and early intervention services. 'There is a reference library with books and videos on topics like parenting and nutrition, a baby change table and shower where mums and dads can bathe their children and a volunteer home visiting service and supported playgroup. 'Parents can also just drop in for a cuppa and a chat with other parents which, during a stressful time, can be the best therapy for a parent.' The Nimbin Family Centre is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday each week from 9am-5pm. For more information phone the centre on 6689 0423.
Magpie MenaceIf you haven't already had your noggin pecked by a Maggie this breeding season, then watch out becomes the swooping will continue until about November. The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has issued a reminder about the risks of swooping and following are some suggestions for ways in which to avoid magpie attacks. Do not provoke the bird; hold an umbrella or stick above your head to deter attacks; hurry past nesting sites confidently and quickly; wear a hat or helmet to protect your head; if on a bike dismount to avoid falling off and move away quickly; and finally avoid as many nesting sites as possible and warn others about risky locations. The NPWS also reminds people that magpies are a protected species and it is illegal to kill them, collect their eggs or harm their young. If a magpie is causing concern, report it to the NPWS on 6627 0209.
|
|
|
|
Lismore council's client services manager, Lindsay Walker, and riverbank redevelopment project officer Lois Kelly consider the possibilities for the project now they have a $300,000 federal government grant.
Legacy Laurel Club members (l-r) Phyl Vanderwall, Lillian Eutick and Eileen McDonald take a moment to remember their loved ones at the Legacy memorial wreath laying service held on Wednesday. Legacy Badge Day is this Friday, September 7.
Ian Causley MP with Annie Rowan, who recently turned 100 (left), and Ella Beatrice Murphy, who just turned 101.
Rous Public School principal Kate Moore (left) and P&C Association secretary Rondah Stevenson with some of the students who dressed up for the Book Week character parade.
Visions of Nimbin Organisers Tim Tonkin, Lizette Twistleton, Mark Rodriquez and Geoff Lynne.
Pictured are district manager, Eddie Ozols with Catriona McComish (front centre) and long service medal recipients (l-r) Gale Richter, John Murtas (on behalf of Sam Steen), John Scantleton, Barry McKendry, Janice Goodall and Geoff McIlveen.
Spring is sprung and the campaign offices is riz... Labor's communications spokesperson, Stephen Smith opened ...
Drs David Helliwell and Daniel Oxlee contemplate the health of medicine in Nimbin.
Journey of a Nation ambassador Peter Halpin examines Ballina's Centennial Community Chest with Ballina mayor David Wright.
The Bagotville barrage controls the release of acid-sulfate soil runoff from the Tuckean Swamp into the Richmond River while at the same time preventing salt water entering a major freshwater resource.
(L-R) Nimbin Jungle Patrol members Dianne Marcell, Craig Ardern, Linda Brooks and Paul Le Bars ready to clean up the village.
Manger of Revival Recycles op shop in the Star Court Arcade, Cheryl Patch, with her husband Charlie and Revival Fellowship pastor, Peter Miller (centre).
Long-time St John Ambulance first aid instructor, Alf Smith, is encouraging young people to undertake a first aid course now, as it could save someone else's life down the track. Alf is pictured with Kadina High School sports teacher Phil Dalli (centre) and the successful course graduates (clockwise from front left) Bianca Fusarelli, Michael Gallagher, Tegan Morgan, Jason Clark, Sarah Waddell, Jeffrey Cotton, Quill Bowden, Erin Foster, Paul Rawson, Melissa King, Emily Gill and Larissa Baldwin. 
At the opening of the new Family Centre were (l-r) Bundjalung Elder Hazel Roberts, director of preschool Dianne Gregory, centre coordinator Mel Lina, advisory committee member Wally Wallace and centre manager, Rosata Knight.