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Main NewsAnsett Crash Leaves Locals Burnt
A battle over the future of airports in Lismore, Casino and Ballina has emerged in the wake of the collapse of Ansett airlines last Friday. The decision to ground Ansett, which faces losses of $2 billion, meant that subsidiary Hazelton Airlines was also forced to close, leaving passengers in Lismore and Casino stranded, while passengers in Ballina scrambled for spare seats on the Qantas-owned subsidiary, Eastern Airlines. In Lismore and Casino, 32 Hazelton staff awoke on Friday morning to find themselves unemployed. Nevertheless, they came to work, staffing the airport and the phones to explain what had happened to passengers and help them make alternative arrangements. Now local councils and business groups are jockeying for position to secure flights should a buyer be found for Hazelton and services resume. While Ballina is the busiest airport, with more than 110,000 passengers, the route has not been profitable for Ansett. Lismore has a predominantly business-oriented market of 47,000 passengers supplemented by a further 10,000 passengers from Casino. Chris Clare, CEO of business lobby group Ballina Business Shirewide said Ballina was the "logical" choice for a single airport if services were rationalised, describing the money spent on Lismore's $2 million terminal as "wasted" and resistance to the idea as "stupid parochialism". But Lismore Council general manager Ken Gainger said the city's airport was vital to the local economy. "The Lismore airport makes money and over 50 people are employed directly, and 200 employed indirectly because of the airport," he said. "It contributes over $10 million indirectly to the local economy." Lismore Economic Development Advisory Board chair Brian Henry said it was a profitable route that was "not in any long-term jeopardy". "More than 70 per cent of the passengers are government, health, university or business related. These passengers are on tight schedule and can not afford to take the extra 1-2 hours out of a day's schedule to travel to other airports," he said. "We are confident that once the business case is assessed by potential buyers, a service will be up and running through Lismore as quickly as possible." His view is supported by Captain Alan Terrell, Chief Executive of the Regional Airlines Association. "The Lismore-Sydney route is profitable and it will be attractive to new operators because they will make money from it," he said. But the real challenge is finding a buyer for Hazelton. The airline, which Ansett bought for $27 million in May, still has its own infrastructure, making it a more attractive to potential buyers. Hazelton also has its own administrator, Michael Humphris of Sims Lockwood, who is weighing up proposals. A spokesperson for jet-based budget carrier Virgin Blue said that running a regional airline "wasn't part of the game plan", but the company was "always keeping our options open". But a local government consortium has put up its hand. The Inland Marketing Corporation (IMC) has lodged an expression of interest for Hazelton and the NSW operations of another Ansett subsidiary, Kendell. A former Qantas deputy chief executive is among the IMC's directors. IMC managing director Alex Fergson has written to 130 mayors in regional NSW, including local mayors David Wright, Bob Gates and Col Sullivan, seeking urgent support for a plan which involve each council contributing $50,000 to raise $8 million in capital towards the purchase. Administrator Michael Humphris said he was confident of returning Hazelton to the air shortly. "At this time it is not possible to confirm exactly when this will be or which routes will be the first to re-open. No decision has been made," he said. "I have informed by Hazelton management that on receipt of instructions to recommence operations, a number of aircraft will be ready to fly within four hours. Staff have been advised that they need to be prepared to return to work on short notice." Local business buffetted - read more. Simon Thomsen Another Local Treasure Discovered
Byron Bay artist Jane Gow has won the $3000 Lismore City Art Prize, announced at the Lismore Regional Art Gallery by art critic Giles Auty last Thursday. Mr Auty, the former art critic for The Australian - and soon to appear in The Courier Mail - was invited to judge the annual award, which features portraits of 'Living Regional Treasures' - people based in the Northern Rivers region who have contributed to making the area a better place. In choosing Ms Gow's portrait in oils of Byron Bay homeopath Leslie Meredith from among the 60 entries, Mr Auty said the painting's vibrancy and 'bold attack' reminded him of the early works of David Hockney, adding that the portrait gave him a strong sense of her subject. Ms Gow, who studied art in Melbourne, was thrilled, if a little overwhelmed by winning the Prize. Her work will now form part of the Gallery's permanent collection. Mr Auty also singled out other works for praise, including photographer Peter Derrett's black and white portrait of Maude Armstrong, Glenda Jones' painting of Chibo Mertineit, and a tribute to soup kitchen legend Darcy Goodwin by Somchai Kamrak. The giant banner, titled Sharing thanks to Darcy, is hanging outside the gallery and was made with help from friends of Darcy and the soup kitchen volunteers. Visitors to the Gallery can make their own decision about who the winner should be by voting in The Northern Rivers Echo People's Choice award. The artwork that receives the most votes will see the winning artist receive $1000 from The Northern Rivers Echo. The Living Regional Treasures exhibition continues at Lismore Regional Art Gallery until October 21. The gallery is open Tuesday-Friday, 10am-4pm, and weekends 10.30am-2.30pm.
Investment brings Jobs to Lismore
A $2 investment in Lismore-based mapping and town planning specialists Aspect North is expected to create up to 50 jobs over the next three years. The investment is a first for the newly established regional development fund Sandhurst Trustees, a subsidiary of the Bendigo Bank. The money will help Aspect North target lucrative export contracts for its mapping services. NSW Regional Development Minister Harry Woods announced the investment last Friday saying it was the first time retail superannuation investors had been able to invest in an unlisted regionally-based company. The move followed in the wake of a regional investment tour organised by the Minister last year. Mr Woods praised the efforts of the local Regional Development manager Sue Ryan, who helped seal the deal with special stamp duty concessions which could have been a stumbling block to the investment. Aspect North managing partner Tony Hart said the injection of capital would help the company expand its export activities. "We currently employ 65 people here in Lismore. Our work is at the cutting edge of technology and we have excellent prospects," he said. Under the investment arrangement, the chairman of Sandhurst Trustees, Gordon McKern will join the Aspect North board as chairman. "This is a watershed for investment in regional Australia," Mr McKern said. While Aspect North has already secured major international mapping projects, it wasn't long before the investment paid off again. Yesterday, the company announced it had won a major contract for digital mapping from the New Zealand Defence Force. The NZDF is providing digital mapping data for India/Sri Lanka and South America to the US-based National Imagery & Mapping Agency, in accordance with a format required by NATO. Aspect North will produce highly-specialised data for a range of locations in countries that include Argentina, Chile and Ecuador. Mr Hart said his company was selected because of its acknowledged expertise in the field and its successful track record in working with the Australian Defence Force. "Last year, we were chosen by the ADF to convert maps and charts of Australia and PNG into 'Vector Smart Maps'," he said. "The maps give the Australian Defence Organisation, which coordinates the three armed forces protecting the nation, a significant edge in planning and conducting operations". "To be selected for projects as far away as South America is tremendously satisfying and shows what can be done from a regional base when you have the right people and systems in place". Sculptor Wins for a Second Time
Brisbane sculptor Stephen Newton has won the Thursday Plantation East Coast Sculpture Show for the second time. The Brisbane artist took out the $10,000 prize with another totemic work in timber. 'Continuum' is an elegant column of red gum punctuated with black linear rhythms. In 1998, Newton won the award, then worth $5,000, with a charred eucalyptus trunk titled 'Below the heavens you know so well'. The Jury Prize for Artistic Excellence was awarded to Stephen Hart, also of Brisbane, for a work that seeks to capture that moment of yearning before a kiss. Daniel Clemmett of Clunes' monumental 'Bonnet Ball', which is highly visible from the Pacific Highway, was recommended for acquisition by the judges. Works by Chico Monks, John Dahlsen and Peter Cosgrave were Highly Commended, while Keith Cameron of Tabulam took out the $1,000 Ten Television Acquisition Award and Sue Fraser of Alstonville was awarded the inaugural TAFE Arts Prize. "The high proportion of locals winning prizes is a tribute to the strength of talent among North Coast artists," says the show's curator, Priya Woolston. "The judges look only at the works, not at the origins of the artists. They found the job of judging extraordinarily difficult given the very high standard of works on show." The exhibition comprises 74 new works by 54 artists, placed mainly in the beautiful rainforest gardens around Thursday Plantation, Ballina. The Thursday Plantation East Coast Sculpture Show runs until January 31 2002 at Thursday Plantation, on the Pacific Highway, north of the Ballina. The exhibition, the Education Centre and Verandah Café are open 7 days a week, 9am to 5pm.
Southern Cross First Past the Post
After plenty of whipping from loans officer Fran Folpp, Southern Cross Credit Union has crossed the line first in the Lismore Cup business display competition, held last week in Lismore. Finding sudden inspiration the day before the competition was to be judged loans officer Fran Folpp madly set about designing a display, collecting bits and pieces like saddles and jockey uniforms from businesses and race enthusiasts around Lismore. The result was a spectacular and colourful display, made all the more realistic thanks to manager Barbara Moston and the staff, who dressed in jockey outfits and the traditional race dress and hat. "We just couldn't believe it when we won - we never expected it and we're all just so thrilled," Barbara said. "As a business we're really into community participation and this was just another way for us to get involved in a great community initiative and have a bit of fun. Winning is an absolute bonus!" The Credit Union has won a VIP marquee at the Lismore Cup today, free entry for 10 people and refreshments to the value of $200, making the total package worth more than $500. Story & photo: Terra 'by the nose' Sword
Call Centre Planned for Goonellabah
A sketch map of Telstra's 165 person call centre on a 6058m2 parcel of land at Simeoni Drive, Goonellabah, next to Coles. A Telstra call centre for 165 people is being planned for land next to the Coles supermarket in Goonellabah. The $4.3 million development is expected to provide an additional 107 jobs in the city, with 58 currently based in Telstra's downtown site in Bounty Street relocating to the purpose-built call centre. Telstra has signed a 10-year lease with the developers of the Goonellabah Town Centre site, Consolidated Properties, which recently donated land to Lismore City Council for a recreation centre on the Simeoni land site. Telstra Country Wide's acting area general manager, Darren Clark, said the call centre decision signified the confidence the telecommunications company had in Lismore as the regional hub. "Telstra's commitment will boost the local economy and strengthen our position as a major employer on the Far North Coast," said Mr Clark. "Telstra will invest $1.4m in the fit out alone and the developers investment is expected to be around $1.9 million for the building and another $1 million for land and other development costs." Local consultants Aspect North lodged the development application for the project with Lismore City Council earlier this month. The public have until September 24 to comment on the proposal. If the approval process goes to plan, construction is expected to begin in November. It is scheduled to open in June 2002 as a Consumer Sales Customer Contact Centre servicing customers with general sales, billing and new connection inquiries. "Consumer Sales is a growing business and the new centre will have better facilities, equipment and technology," Mr Clark said. "We need this capability as more and more customers are choosing how they wish to contact us - by phone, e-mail, via automated products, through self-help Internet applications, voice portals, 24-hours a day." The development's project manager, Paul Greene, said the builder, Adco Constructions, planned to use local materials, suppliers and sub contractors during construction. Lismore Mayor Cr Bob Gates, said the call centre was a boost to economic activity in Lismore.
Blackout 1More than 400 Country Energy customers powerless for up to four hours last Saturday, after a truck hit a pole on a property at Dunoon around 10.30am, bringing down a powerline. The accident affected supplies around Federal, Repentance Creek and Rosebank Power was restored to most customers by 12pm, with power to all homes fully restored by 3pm. Blackout 2Almost 5,000 Alstonville resident were left without power for five hours on Monday night when both main transformers at the substation failed. The power cut off occurred at around 7.30pm when two 66,000-volt transformers experienced internal faults. By midnight Country Energy returned power to 4,500 residents by feeding supply through substations in Ballina and East Lismore. The remaining 500 residents were supplied with power via generators brought to the area from Brisbane the following day. Power was fully restored to all residents by 4pm on Tuesday.
Drugged DriverA 19 year-old Grafton man assaulted a police officer on Sunday while being questioned about a car accident in Goonellabah. Police say the man was driving west around 4.20pm on Sunday when he hit a pole near the intersection of the Bruxner Highway and Kadina Street. The driver and a male passenger suffered minor injuries. The 19 year-old driver was taken to Lismore Police Station where allegedly kicked a police sergeant in the face, leaving him with a cut above the eye. The male was charged with driving and drug-related offences, as well as assaulting a police officer.
Sullivan Elected Mayor Again
Cr Col Sullivan has been re-elected mayor of Richmond Valley Council for a third term following an election at Tuesday's Council meeting. Cr Sullivan defeated Cr Charlie Cox 6-4 for the role. Cr Cox was elected deputy mayor in a three-way tussle that saw Cr Eileen Melling eliminated and Cr Cox's name pulled from a hat after he and Cr Norma Thomas tied on five votes each. Cr Sullivan told the meeting that the council faced three major decisions in the next 12 months. "Firstly, more than 20 months after amalgamation, it is imperative that we get the extensions to the former Richmond River Shire building up and running," Cr Sullivan said. "Secondly, we face a major reorganisation of staff that will see the general manager overseeing three department heads. "The third are referenda to decide on whether to elect the mayor by popular vote and councillors by wards." Dave Fawkner
Nimbin Show Kicks Off SeasonAn exhibition of historic photographs of the Nimbin district is just one of the many highlights of this year's Nimbin A & I Society Show to be held this Saturday and Sunday, September 22-23. The show, which is the first of the 2001 North Coast show season, is sure to set the scene for those to follow, according to society secretary Anne Burgess. "We managed to get our program out early this year and as a result we have attracted a lot of interest," Ms Burgess said. "As usual the pavilion events have attracted a large number of entries in categories of horticulture, produce, culinary, needlework and art, crafts and photography." Ms Burgess said that this year the committee had designated Sunday a children's day with events and activities designed to cater for them. "A talent quest, sideshows, model trains and a pony-club event will all help to add to the atmosphere of the day," she said. "We'll also have Irish musicians playing on both days." Saturday's program begins at 8am with a dog show, plus cattle, poultry and horse judging. The Grand Parade to be opened by mayor Bob Gates will begin at 2pm. This will be followed by a number of ring events and a whip-cracking contest. Sunday's activities begin with a breakfast with the Bush Poets at the Nimbin Bowling Club at 7.30am. Events at the showgrounds include shown jumping, pony club, a gala ring, miniature and heavy horses and a talent quest. Entry to the show is $7/2 children. A family day pass is $17.
Funds Trickle in for Flood Levee
The federal Government will not match a promise by NSW Premier Bob Carr to fund the Lismore flood levee at $2 million per annum for two years. And during a visit to Lismore last Friday to launch the Lismore Levee Scheme, federal Regional Services Minister Senator Ian McDonald said that the Government would not change the current funding arrangement, which will see Lismore ratepayers paying a third of the $13 million cost. The disappointing news came as dignitaries gathered to mark the start of the project with the relocation east of the South Lismore levee. While NSW Local Government Minister Harry Woods reaffirmed the Premier's post-flood promise of $4 million, his federal colleagues arrived with empty pockets. Local flood mitigation authority Richmond River County Council chairman Cr Frank Swientek pleaded with Senator McDonald for the additional funding and a change to the funding formula to reduce the burden on the city's ratepayers. But it fell on deaf ears. Senator McDonald claimed that a change in the formula would reduce the amount of work that could be done with federal assistance. "The Commonwealth government believes it should maximise its contribution," he said. But so far, the federal government's contribution has only amounted to $500,000. Richmond River County Council has applied for another $500,000 for this financial year. While Senator McDonald initially claimed that Lismore was not on the list of works recommended for funding, a spokesperson from his office later clarified his comment as a misunderstanding. NSW Land and Water Conservation Minister submitted a list of works, which included a recommendation for $500,000 for Lismore, to Senator McDonald on July 11. "Senator McDonald is considering the list at the moment and is expected to make an announcement sometime within the next month," the spokesperson said. Lismore mayor Bob Gates, is also urging the federal government to commit the money, adding that there had been "a wall of silence". "Their inaction on funding calls into question their commitment to the people of Lismore," Cr Gates said. Labor's federal candidate for the seat of Page, Terry Flanagan, claimed Lismore was being neglected. "Last Friday was the second opportunity this government passed up to agree to the 2:2:1 formula," he said. Simon Thomsen Airline Crash Spoils Appetite
Henry's Hot Bread in Keen Street, Lismore, is one of the many victims in the Ansett collapse. Proprietor Michael Lawson has been providing breakfast pastries for Hazelton's 6.40am flight from Lismore for the past six years. But he hasn't been paid since July 1 and is owed in excess of $5000 by the Ansett group. "They have our invoices, but I suspect we are a long way down the list of creditors," Michael said. With the Hazelton plane staying in Lismore overnight, the airline had asked Henry's to provide food for the morning flight. "We would ring them up each evening to find out their passenger numbers and provide an appropriate number of items," he said. "They may have been only one of the more that 700 customers we dealt with each day, but they represented a trade worth in excess of $20,000 a year to us. "While I'm confident that the Hazelton group will survive, I'm not so sure that whoever takes it over will be willing to take on the debts as well. We have lost money before when local businesses we supplied to closed but is has never been this much. "However, we have a large customer base and the Hazelton account is unlikely to affect the business in the long run." Meanwhile, the manager of the Lismore office of the Ansett-owned Traveland, Cran Follent, has denied rumours that the business was about to close its doors. Mr Follent said he expected it to be business as usual today for the Keen Street travel agency. "I can't say much because it's all in the hands of the administrator but I'm confident that Traveland - like Hazelton - is an attractive business proposition that can survive outside of Ansett," he said. "While we are owned by Ansett, 70 per cent of our business is spread across a number of other travel providers, including Qantas." Dave Fawkner
Heart PoliticsThe 12th annual Heart Politics Conference will be held Friday to Tuesday, September 21-25, at the Gunundi Conference Centre, north of Ballina. The theme is 'personal power, leadership and social change'. Speakers at the conference include Greens MLC Lee Rhiannon, who has worked on social justice and environmental issues for three decades, and Southern Cross University politics teacher, Kate Fisher, who wrote her PhD thesis on 'making economics accessible to all'. For information and bookings phone Katrina Shields on 6688 6116. Fishing Bans LiftedBans on recreational and commercial fishing in the Richmond and Macleay Rivers will be lifted at the end of the month, in time for the October long weekend. The ban was imposed following the massive fish kills in the two waterways caused by the February and March floods. Fisheries Minister Eddie Obeid said the bans will be lifted on September 28, following the successful recovery of fish stocks to sustainable levels. Both rivers will continue to be monitored.
Young Car ThievesFive people have been arrested over car break-ins following a combined operation by local police Officers from the Richmond Highway Patrol, TAG and Lismore Police have been conducting Operation Streetsafe, arresting a number of people on Monday evening and in the early hours of Tuesday morning for possessing car breaking implements and attempting to steal motor vehicles in Lismore The first incident saw two 16-year-old boys arrested in East Lismore, following earlier attempts to steal cars from around Lismore Base Hospital. Police also recovered hidden goods stolen from other parked cars in the area. One youth was granted conditional bail to appear in Lismore Local Court in October while the other was refused bail due to a breach of previous bail conditions. In the second incident, two Lismore youths, aged 13 and 16, were arrested with property believed to have been stolen earlier during a break and enter offence in the Lismore area. The youths also had car breaking implements and police are investigating the origins of the property they recovered. In the third incident, two women in their 20s were stopped and searched in Uralba Street, near Lismore Square, following a tip off. One woman was given a court attendance notice for possession of prohibited drugs in Lismore. Both women were visitors to the area. Computer LostA young Lismore man has lost his laptop computer after accidentally leaving it at a bus shelter at Trinity College last Friday. The acer Travelmate 2000 was lost in Bay 16 in Brewster street between 3.20 and 3.40pm. A reward is offered. Phone Peter Kelly on 6628 6141. Memorial ServiceA Memorial Service for the New York Fire Department members who lost their lives when the World Trade Centre collapsed will be held at the Salvation Army Citadel in Goonellabah this Sunday, September 23, from 2pm. All members of the emergency services are invited to attend.
Revenge is not the Answer to TerrorBy Rev. Peter PlaystedWe gather together to mourn the dead and bereaved from perhaps the darkest single day in the whole history of the United States. Perhaps the only comparison that could be made with what has happened this last week would be the Japanese sneak attack on Pearl Harbour, and then we at least knew who the enemy was! However, as President George Bush said, "Welcome to the first war of the 21st Century", and it would be difficult to dispute that that is what has happened. Perhaps the only other American event, which has had such a huge impact on Australia was the assassination of President John F Kennedy. As was first said by Marshall McCluhan, 30 years ago now, we have truly become 'a global village'. That is why we are here. We have come here together today to mourn literally thousands of people who will never come home again. The extent of the destruction, especially in the twin Trade Towers, was such that large numbers of people will never be identified; or will never be even found. They have simply vanished as if they had never been. Words really cannot express how much we empathise and identify with our American brethren, both civilian and military, in the face of this despicable terrorist attack. I mentioned that we had become a 'global village'. The famous 17th Century words of John Donne. apply as much today as they ever did. Donne said: No man is an Island,entire of itself. Every man is a piece of the Continent, a part of the main. Any man's death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind. And therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls. It tolls for you Commentators have said the whole world will never ever be the same again. That is absolutely true. Before this tragic incident, the American President had been talking about the need to spend billions of American dollars to devise a nuclear defence shield. But no defence shield, however elaborate, would have prevented what happened. Even the most fabulous Hollywood movie script could never have foreseen this scenario. So what does all this mean in our part of the global village? It means first of all that we cannot remain complacent and assume that what has happened in the USA could never happen to us. As the British Prime Minister Tony Blair said so articulately: "This was not just an attack on America; it was an attack on every freedom loving democracy across the face of the whole globe". In that sense none of us can ever say that that same American situation could never happen again. Perhaps not with the same weapons of choice, but in some other way and in some other place. In that sense it is indeed true that the world will never be the same again. There is and will be a new sense of insecurity out there that none of us has ever felt before - I can even feel it here in Lismore. That is another of the multiple tragedies of this American Tragedy. There are at least two things that I would like to leave with you that have a Christian reference: This appalling American tragedy reminds us afresh of the fragility and brevity of human life. One of the verses in our Presbyterian Burial Service, a verse from the Old Testament Psalm 103, reads like this: "As for man, his days are as grass; as a flower of the field, so he flourishes for the wind passes over it, and it is gone; and the place thereof shall know it no more". For those who were in the top sections of those towers, above the places where the aircraft hit, that verse had become literally true. They had only minutes to live; one man called his wife to tell her that he loved her, and told her that the ceiling was about to fall in on him in the next few seconds, and then he was gone. And so were thousands of others; their lives just snuffed out like a candle in a moment of time. Just seconds to live; how would you feel? Those television pictures profoundly effected me, and caused me to review my whole life all over again. They caused me, as a Christian, to ask myself afresh, was I really honest with God. Was I really straight, truthful, really honestly the man that I was supposed to be? And, most important of all, was I absolutely sure that I had placed all my faith, hope and trust in Jesus Christ as Lord. As Jesus says in Matthew 16:26: "What shall it profit a man if he shall gain the whole world, but lose his own soul". How about you? Did you do that? Do you need to do that? Can you say in the words of that great old American Gospel song; "[I] have an anchor that keeps the soul, Steadfast and sure while the billows roll, Fasten'd to the rock which cannot move, Grounded firm and deep in the Saviour's love." As Jesus said in the Gospel of John of those who placed themselves in His hands. "My sheep hear my voice, and I know, and they follow me, and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand." The other issue is very different, for it involves the crucial question of where the Americans go from here, and along with us, as Western Christians. I think it was the Japanese Admiral Yamamato who said, after the sneak attack on the Americans at Pearl Harbour. "I think that we have awakened a sleeping giant." Whoever these terrorists were and came from, they too have certainly awakened a giant; that, not surprisingly, is madder than a hornet. President Bush said that not only would the United States track down and punish those responsible, they would also punish the countries harbouring these terrorists in the first place. The theme of revenge was extremely prominent. Even Australians working for US networks spoke of the need for revenge, of the need to get even, of wiping Kabul off the face of the earth. In Australia we had a Middle Eastern Orthodox Christian church firebombed and covered with graffiti in the mistaken belief that it was a mosque. We had Afghan children assaulted by Australian children. We had a demand that a Muslim secretary in a Sydney medical practice should be instantly fired from her job, simply because she was a Muslim. We had mosques filled up with Muslims seeking sanctuary, simply because they were Muslims and were terrified to be out on the streets of Sydney. We had Muslim wives send their husbands to the supermarket on because of the hostility from the so-called "Christian" Australians. These things are perfectly understandable - but they are far from helpful; and they are certainly not Christian. We are, as Billy Graham once reminded us, living under the dangling sword of Damocles of a Third World War that could bring us to the stone cold end of history as we know it. And if one Muslim country is singled out for retribution for harbouring the terrorists, all that does is bring in all the other Muslim countries alongside it in solidarity against the West, and then all the eggshells get crushed, including ours. At the risk of sounding both simplistic and naïve, let me suggest to you that massive military retribution against individual Arab countries is not the way, to either a lasting peace, or a lasting solution. Rather, let our prayer be that George Bush and his advisors will be led by the Holy Spirit of God into some other way - not "an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth", but another non-violent way, so that people will say of George Bush (to borrow from Winston Churchill), that "this was [his] finest hour. And then, at last, the great words of Isaiah 11:9 will finally come true for, as Isaiah says, then, and only then: "They will neither harm nor destroy in all my holy mountain, for the earth will be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea." This is an edited version of last Sunday's sermon at St Paul's Presbyterian Church by Rev Peter Playsted. School Volunteers Honoured
House FireA house in Newbridge Street, South Lismore was destroyed last week after the owner, a 69-year-old woman, left candles burning in the dining room in tribute to the victims of the US terrorist attack. Police say the woman was watching a report on the attacks when the announcer requested viewers light a candle and turn off the light in memory of the victims. The woman then lit three small candles, placing them into a small bowl containing candle wax on the dining room table, before turning her lights off and returning to the rear of her home to watch television. A short time the woman saw flames coming from the dining room but when she went to investigate, was overcome by smoke. Neighbours contacted the fire brigade however, by the time the fire was extinguished major structural damage had been caused and considerable amount of personal property was destroyed. The woman is being cared for by family.
Casino RobberyPolice are appealing for help after a man robbed an elderly woman in Casino last Thursday. Police say the 79 year-old woman was assaulted in Canterbury Street around 10.15am. The man stole her handbag and then ran towards Wheat Street. . The man is described as in his early to mid 20s, with a medium/olive to dark complexion, facial hair (not a full beard) and wearing a dark blue singlet. Anyone with information should phone Police on 6662 0099. Ballina Catholic Centre Refused
Plans by the Ballina parish of the Catholic Church to erect a two-storey community centre at the corner of Crane and Cherry streets have been put on hold after Ballina Council's refused to alter its Local Environment Plan. The 2207m2 site - the former Kirklands Bus depot, despite being in a Residential-zoned area - is opposite the Ballina Catholic Church. The proposed two-storey parish centre, with below-ground parking for 60 cars, included areas for social, educational and welfare activities, leased office space and a day-surgery facility. But council refused to vary the LEP last month, saying that it was inconsistent with the 2(a) zoning although it may providing benefit to nearby residents. The decision caught the parish unaware, according to parish business manager Paul Lloyd. "I have to admit that we are at a bit of a loss as to what to do next," Mr Lloyd said. "We feel there is a need for such a centre - especially the day-surgery facility - but it appears that we will now have to look elsewhere in Ballina. As for the current site, we may have to look at a use that is more in keeping with the current zoning. In the meantime, it is likely to continue to be used as a carpark by worshippers attending the churches in the vicinity."
Teachers Learn on US Visit
School holidays might start at the end of next week but for local teachers John Clayton and Di Williamson school will be definitely in, albeit in a different setting. John and Di are among 13 NSW teachers taking part in a two-week school leadership program in the USA. John, a Drama and English teacher at Casino High, will spend a week teaching at Petty Elementary School in Michigan, while Di a Welfare teacher at Lismore High School will be teaching at Morgan Elementary School, also in Michigan. John and Di will then move on to Michigan State University where they will take part in a one week course on school leadership. "The terrorist attack in New York is at the forefront of everybody's thoughts at the moment and I will be interested to see how the students and teachers are reacting," John said. "It will also be good to gain a perspective on school leadership in the USA. One third of their teaching staff is due to retire in the next 10 years so I will be interested to hear how they plan to cope." Di is excited about renewing contact with Rosie Chapman, an African-American teacher who stayed with Di's family during a two-week exchange program in July. "We both teach in areas related to student welfare and learning problems and we have been keeping in touch by email," Di said. "But I can't wait to see her again. We'll be working in the same school and it will be great to compare the Australian and American systems with her." Nice Touch for Tourist Information
Getting information on Lismore's tourist attractions, key sites, restaurants and accommodation is now a lot easier with the launch of a Tourism Touchscreen. The touchscreen, one of 13 now operating in Australia, has been installed at the Lismore Visitor and Heritage Centre and offers 24 hour access to tourism information. The touchscreen is inside the centre, but at night a touchpad outside the centre will allow people to access information. "If you can push a button you can work the touchscreen - it's pretty straightforward and therefore accessible for all," Lismore tourism development officer, Lisa Murphy, said. "The touchscreen will be a lot more effective than any brochure because it is interactive and has engaging visual sights and sounds - people still get the knowledge of the staff but they can look at pictures and visualise the facilities. "Another great benefit it puts us on a network with all the other touchscreens around Australia. This means people planning a trip to Lismore from Canberra can look at the local facilities and have their trip planned, and vice versa."
Ballina walk wins award
Local organisers of the annual Walk Against Want in Ballina earlier this year have been commended for their work by Oxfam Community Aid Abroad's (CAA) NSW coordinator Ali Mackay. The Lismore-based group inspired 30 people to join the walk raising $1,500 for CAA. "As well as thanking the people who helped make the walk a success, I'm encouraging people in the Northern Rivers to join our Polliewatch program in the lead up to the Federal election," Ms Mackay said. CAA's Polliewatch program is designed to put pressure on candidates and MPs about their policies on social justice issues - for example the aid budget, refugee situation and Native Title. People who join Polliewatch are sent the policies of the political parties so they can actively lobby politicians in the lead up to the Federal election. Anyone interested in getting involved in Polliewatch or joining CAA as a volunteers should phone the Northern Rivers coordinator, Debbie Humphreys, on 6689 1910. Story & photo: Terra Sword
Plain Speaking MP
Lismore MP Thomas George found himself reliving childhood memories when he recently presented a group of volunteer literacy tutors with certificates of appreciation. After completing a five week course at TAFE's Lismore campus, the volunteers have gone on to teach many locals basic reading and writing skills. Mr George's Arabic-speaking parents immigrated from Lebanon when he was one and language was a difficulty. "As a young lad I had to act as an interpreter for my parents, " he explained. "Thinking back, I have come to realise the great worth of literacy programs like this." The volunteer literacy tutors are matched with people to work on a one-to-one basis for three months to two years. One of the volunteers, Pat Offord, became a tutor after retiring from her position has Richmond River High School's head teacher four years ago. Pat says it's one of the best things she's ever done. "I've learnt so much by meeting people from different cultures and learning about their countries - it really is a very rewarding experience," Pat said. More volunteer literacy tutors are needed and the next five week training course starts on Wednesday, October 31. Anyone interested should phone Sandra on 6626 6485. Story & photo: Terra Sword
Local Landcarers Strike Gold
The NSW Landcare awards held in Parkes recently saw the Far North Coast dominate the celebrations with four awards. Tony Parkes of the Big Scrub Rainforest Landcare Group won the Individual Landcarer Gold Award, for his contribution to the conservation of the Big Scrub Rainforest. Shirley White from Angels Beach Dunecare and Reafforestation Group received the Individual Landcare Bronze Award for her untiring work in restoring the vegetation on the dunes and in the littoral rainforest along Angels Beach and at Flat Rock, at Ballina. The Big Scrub Rainforest Landcare Group received the Bushcare Nature Conservation Gold Award for their enormous effort in restoring Big Scrub Rainforest, while the Mullumbimby Creek Progress Association was awarded the Silver Rivercare Award for their riparian subcatchment revegetation work. Local landcare coordinator Kerri Francis, said the local Landcarers were delighted by the recognition. "There are more than 1500 landcare groups in NSW, so to have two gold awards out of the 10 was a fabulous achievement," Kerri said. "To have The Big Scrub Rainforest Groups and their chairman Tony Parkes achieve highest recognition at the State level for the volunteer work is a great boost not only to the group but all other landcarers in the area. Landcarers undertake their work because they care about our natural environment, not for rewards or recognition. The NSW Gold Award winners will now represent NSW at the National Landcare Awards at Parliament House, Canberra next March. For information on joining the Big Scrub Rainforest Landcare Group, or any other landcare group, call Kerri Francis on 66270120.
Minyon Falls WalkThe local branch of the Australian Plant Society is hosting a walk and lunch at Minyon Falls, in Whian Whian State Forest, this Sunday, September 23. The day begins with morning tea from 10.30am (BYO), followed by a short walk. The afternoon walk will follow the Quondong Falls track from 1.30pm, with plant identification and discussion. For more details, phone 6628 6147.
Students GraduateMore than 488 Southern Cross University students will be recognised in two Graduation Ceremonies in Lismore this Saturday, September 22. The 202 graduands able to attend the ceremony will be joined by 749 family members and guests. Degrees and other awards in business, management, law, IT, arts, nursing, environmental science and indigenous studies will be conferred by the Chancellor, Dr Lionel Phelps, at 9am and 11.30am ceremonies. The graduates will be addressed by two distinguished Occasional Speakers, Professor John Niland, Vice-Chancellor of The University of New South Wales, and Professor Robyn Williams, the distinguished ABC science journalist.
Conference CancelledThis weekend's National Unemployment Conference in Ballina has been cancelled in the wake of the Ansett crash. But key papers will be posted on the conference web site. Conference Convenor, Dr Leonie Jennings, said they had no choice but to cancel because speakers could not attend. "However for a period of three weeks, online respondents will be able to react to the ideas that were to be presented at the conference," she said. For the papers, visit http://norsearch.scu.edu.au/unemploymentconf2001/
Carpet Man calls Lismore home
After exhibiting in Lismore periodically over the past six years and receiving a strong response from the public the Cyrus Persian Carpet Gallery has opened a permanent store in Woodlark Street, Lismore. The Cyrus Persian Rug Gallery is one of Australia's largest importers and currently has more than 5,000 rugs in stock from 10 countries, in a huge variety of styles, colours and sizes. Stock is brought down daily from the company's Gold Coast warehouse to ensure there's always the maximum amount of choice for customers. New rugs are added to the range as they arrive from overseas. Importing the rugs themselves means Cyrus Persian Carpet Gallery can sell these beautifully crafted works for the cheapest price possible and the gallery's owner, Cyrus Mollaian, invites anyone interested to browse through the new store. "We are proud to be a permanent fixture in the Northern Rivers area and we are looking forward to continued support from the local community," Cyrus said. "People are welcome to come in for a look through the store anytime and there's no doubt they will enjoy seeing the colours and fine workmanship of some of the finest rugs made in the world. They are true works of art." The Cyrus Persian Carpet Gallery's new premises are at 121 Woodlark Street, Lismore. For more information phone Cyrus on 6622 5677 or 0414 755 547.
Sunday Yoga in the ParkA one-off special event, Yoga in the Park, will be held this Sunday, September 23, in conjunction with Lismore City Council, Presented by owners of the new Yoga in Daily Life Centre in Lismore, Mark and Rosa Welsh, the free event is a chance for people of all ages and all levels of fitness to participate in yoga in a comfortable, outdoor environment. "We've recently done surveys with the students attending out yoga centres and 100 per cent say they do yoga to relax, relieve stress and gain inner peace as well as to keep fit and flexible. World peace depends on each of us having inner peace," Mark said. "Events like Yoga in the Park are a free and easy way to try yoga and people who like it can take it up on a regular basis." The day will feature games and special yoga for classes for younger children so parents can enjoy a class without being disturbed. People are asked to bring a picnic, a towel or yoga mat and lots of enthusiasm. Yoga in the Park will be held in Heritage Park (just across from the kids play area) from 10.30am-1pm. For more information phone Mark or Rosa on 6622 2376.
All the Latest in Computer Technology
In a world where computers change almost daily and new software is constantly being developed, computers stores have had to adapt to keep up-to-date. One store with all the latest is Computer Discounts in Lismore. The small, family-owned store has been operating for 10 years. Its success can be attributed to proprietors, John McNally and Kate O'Driscoll, who have been working in the computing industry for more than 35 years. John and Kate are careful to ensure both they and their staff are kept abreast of new developments and changes within the industry by attending seminars and conferences as well as reading the latest computing literature. Since they started out a decade ago the technology has changed dramatically.. "While we still tailor packages for people, it's now a lot more flexible simply because that's what the current market requires," John explained. "We now have an emphasis on selling individual components and doing upgrades for people's current systems, which enables them to utilise all the current technology without having to purchase a whole new system." Computer Discounts has a staff of eight - four are qualified technicians - and a workshop on site so systems can be assembled. The technicians can do additional repairs and upgrades. The store also has an advice line for those experiencing any small glitches or problems with their system, a service that is especially helpful for first-time computer users. "If a customer has a problem, even one caused by unfamiliarity with computers, we're not happy until it's solved," John said. As well as Computer Discounts great range of IBM computers and software, they also stock accessories such as headphones, sound cards, cables, speakers, mouse pads and much more. They also stock some Macintosh printers, scanners and modems. Computer Discounts is at 78 Conway Street, Lismore. Phone 6621 8477.
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Passengers at Lismore airport climb aboard QantasLink plane this week. The Impulse livery remains after Qantas took over Impulse earlier this year. Qantas is running one 18-seat flight a day from Lismore as an interim measure. Hazelton had been running 165 seats across five flights. Qantas interim schedule from Lismore: Fri-Sat, Sept 21-22: depart 8.30am; Sun, Sept 23: depart 6pm. For bookings, phone 13 13 13
Art critic and Lismore Art Prize judge Giles Auty, with the winning artist, Jane Gow with her portrait of homeopath Leslie Meredith. 
Gordon McKern from the Bendigo Bank's regional development superannuation fund Sandhurst Trustees, with Aspect North managing partner Tony Hart and Regional Development Minister Harry Woods.
Thursday Plantation chairman Christopher Dean and sculptor Stephen Newton with his winning work 'Continuum'. 
Southern Cross Credit Union manager Barbara Moston (front right) and loans officer Fran Folpp with member service officer Di Arnett, Cheree Wilcox and Jenni Green with their race day display.
Deputy mayor Charlie Cox and mayor Col Sullivan after Tuesday's mayoral election.
In front of the giant bulldozer which will relocate the south Lismore flood levee were Richmond River County Council chairman Cr Frank Swientek, Lismore MP Thomas George, NSW Regional Development Minister Harry Woods, mayor Cr Bob Gates, federal Regional Services Minister Senator Ian McDonald, Page MP Ian Causley and NSW Floodplain Management Authority chairman Cr Allan Ezzy. 
Let them eat brioche! Henry's Hot Bread owner Michael Lawson contemplates his end of the Ansett debacle in Lismore yesterday.
More than 15 volunteers who give their time in local primary and high schools were presented with certificates of appreciation by the Dept of Education and Training recently. The volunteers - ranging from men in their late 20s to ladies over 80 - do everything from helping students with learning difficulties to canteen work. Some volunteers have been giving their time for more than 20 years, including Corrie Summerton, who has worked at Tuntable Falls Preschool, Nimbin Central, Goolmangar Public and Richmond River High School. 
An artist's impression of the proposed Catholic community centre rejected by Ballina Council.
School teachers Di Williamson and John Clayton.
Lismore Visitor and Heritage Centre tourism development officer Lisa Murphy (left) with mayor Bob Gates and Tourism Touchscreen project manager Sasha Pine.
Visiting Oxfam Community Aid Abroad (CAA) NSW coordinator Ali Mackay with Northern Rivers coordinator Debbie Humphreys and fundraising coordinator Tom Widdup from Brisbane.
Lismore MP Thomas George with Pat Offord (front) and other volunteer literacy tutors (clockwise from middle) Margaret Deville, Jill Pope, Marianne Allan, Martin Adlington, Utoska McLeod, Jennine Winkelman and lastly Phyl Young, the longest serving volunteer literacy tutor.
Big Scrub Rainforest Landcare Group chairman Dr Tony Parkes (right), winner of the Individual Landcare Gold Award, with Berkley Wiles the founder of the Big Scrub Rainforest Landcare Group, holding the groups Bushcare Nature Conservation Gold Award.
Proprietor of the Cyrus Persian Carpet Gallery, Cyrus Mollaian, inside his new store in Woodlark Street.
The friendly staff from Computer Discounts in Lismore (l-r) technical manager Ross Fear, proprietor John McNally, trainee Chris Greensill, proprietor Kate O'Driscoll and shop manager, Roger Poole.