Issue 738
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Main NewsNurses Strike for More PayNurses at Lismore Base Hospital plan to strike on October 18 as part of a campaign against the NSW Government for better wages and conditions. The statewide campaign, which began nearly two months ago, will see more than 18,000 nurses in 70 hospitals across NSW walk out the Thursday - Lismore Show Day. Hospitals in Ballina, Kyogle, Casino, Lismore and Byron Bay will be involved in the industrial action. Last month, Lismore Base Hospital nurses introduced 14 work bans to "free up" nurses from non-nursing duties like cleaning and filing as part of their 'What's a Nurse Worth' campaign. Overtime bans have also been in place. NSW Nurses Association Vice-President and Lismore branch secretary Helen O'Donnell said that the decision to strike was unanimous. "If the State Government won't listen to reason, then hopefully they'll listen to action," Ms O'Donnell said. "We're sick and tired of carrying the health system on our backs. It cannot continue without nurses and nurses are leaving the system." To guarantee safe levels of care for patients during the strike, which will run from 7am to 4pm, nurses will provide night duty staffing levels. Ms O'Donnell said that the loss of nurses to the profession was already affecting the number of nurses staffing wards during the day. "Nursing numbers are decreasing and vacancies cannot be filled. Nurses are voting with their feet, clearly showing that wages and conditions are not sufficient for the level of skill required to be a nurse in the hospital system of today," she said. "We are not asking for any more than other similar level health professionals enjoy." She said the nursing shortage was getting worse by the day, leaving them with no option but to take the State-wide strike action. "This is the first time NSW nurses have held a State-wide strike for many years and it is an indication of how seriously nurses view the shortage. And we're calling on the public to support us in our bid to attract more nurses back into the system." Despite acknowledging the problem, NSW Industrial Relations Minister John Della Bosca has rejected a Nurses Association request for the matter to be heard in the Industrial Relations Commission. The nurses are now planning to run their own special case for improved wages and conditions with the IRC. There are an estimated 10,000 registered nurses in NSW who are not working as nurses. World Peace Begins at Home
In the wake of the US terrorist attacks and the looming war, a global community project has been started in Lismore to let political leaders know they want peace. Peace Begins Within is the brainchild of South Lismore resident Jill Schell and is designed for people of all ages and denominations. Jill wants people to sign cards or create poems, stories or pictures about peace, which she will then turn into a book and present to the Prime Minister in early November. The aim is to have 100,000 cards signed by November 1 for the first book, with other countries across the world following suit. "This a gentle, non demonstrative way for the people to get their message of peace to our leaders and let them know we no longer want violence in our world," Jill said. Peace Begins Within is already being started in other countries around the world. If you want to be involved send your contributions to Peace Begins Within, 30 Crown Street, South Lismore 2480 or go along to the Peace Uniting Gathering in Heritage Park, Lismore, this Sunday, September 30, where Jill will have Peace Begins Within cards you can sign. Or contact Jill on 6621 4381. Boost for Lismore Fire Station
Lismore Fire Station will have a permanent daytime staff of four firefighters within two months. But a 24-hour-a-day station in the CBD could be up to two years away, according to NSW Fire Brigade commissioner Ian MacDougall. Com MacDougall visited Lismore as part of a two-day inspection of the region's fire stations. During the visit he held meetings with members of the Lismore and Goonellabah brigades in what Com MacDougall described as a chance to "get in touch with reality". "Over the two days I'm here I expect to spend an hour in each of 12 stations in the zone," he said. "The Lismore and Goonellabah firefighters have raised a number of operational and staffing issues. "While I can't provide the faster firetrucks and satellite communications they would like, I have today made a commitment that the Lismore Fire Station will become a 24-hour-a-day operation within two years." Com MacDougall said the need for more staff in Lismore was obvious but it would take time to train additional firefighters. "Within a budgetary context I have 336 stations to staff in NSW and it is not just a matter of opening another box of firefighters," he said. "In the meantime, what I can promise is that within two months Lismore Fire Station will have a permanent staff of a station officer and three firefighters during CBD business hours. These will be supplemented by 12 retained firefighters who will be available at other times." Lismore City Council has also played its part in securing the additional firefighters. In March, Cr Bob Gates put forward a mayoral minute aimed at securing 24-hour staffing at the Lismore station. Councillors voted to offer $71,000 per annum towards the cost of employing the additional firefighters. Story & photo: Dave Fawkner
Get on Yer Bike this Weekend
More than 100 beautifully restored motorcycles will hit the road this weekend as part of the Northern Rivers Motorcycle Club's annual Classic Rally to be held this Saturday and Sunday, September 29-30. The rally will feature a range of vintage, veteran and classic motorcycles from the 1920s to 70s, with people travelling to the region from far and wide to take part in the event. One person who is especially looking forward to the event is the club's patron, Lismore resident Jack Ahearn, who's keen to see both the old bikes and old friends. Describing himself as "the Wayne Gardiner of the 50s and 60s", Jack raced motorcycles for more than 35 years, was Australian Champion for several years and in the mid-60s came second at the 500CC World Championships. "Bike enthusiasts really come out of the woodwork for an event like this and people will get to see a lot of bikes that haven't been around for donkeys years," he said. "Anyone with an interest in vintage vehicles or motorcycles in general should come along and check out the bikes on show, because they really are a wonderful sight. People can get some good advice from the experts, find out about the club, chat about the different bikes and generally just enjoy these beautiful machines." The Classic Rally starts on Saturday at the southern side of Missingham Bridge in Ballina from 9.30am. There's also a static display from about 7.30am. The rally will then travel through Byron Bay to Bangalow, Clunes, Dunoon, The Channon, Nimbin and Cawongla before stopping in Lismore. The bikes will on display in the Lismore Workers Club carpark from 1pm on Saturday, where judging of the different age categories will also be held. On Sunday the rally will start at 10am in Ballina and travel through Teven, Eltham, Clunes, Federal, Coorabell and Byron Bay. To complete the rally, the procession will ride to Bangalow where there will be another static display down at the pool from 12pm. For details or to join the rally, phone 6621 2578 or 6629 1051. Story & photo: Terra 'leathers' Sword
Kids Celebrate Federation
The Banner Project was a part of the Gallery's Y Art! (Youth Art) Project for 2001 and was organised by the Education Officer Marie Nelson, with gallery volunteer, artist and former school teacher Wendy Lageman. The banners, donated by the Tourist Information Centre, will be hanging for around two months.
Sacrilegious YouthA 15-year-old boy has been charged with a range of offences over the desecration of two Lismore churches that caused $20,000 in damage. Police allege the youth broke into St Andrews Anglican Church and St Carthages Catholic Cathedral earlier this month, burning Bibles and setting fire to the Bishop's throne. Four fires set inside St Carthages caused an estimated $15,000 in damage. Police allege he also broke into the Marist Brothers Junior Rugby Club, Far North Coast Hockey Club and Lismore public school tuckshop. The youth has been charged with two counts of malicious damage, five counts of break and enter, and two counts of sacrilege. He was bailed to appear in the Children's Court on October 15.
Elderly Park Residents Fight to StayTinkerbell Caravan Park residents will protest outside Ballina Council chambers on Thursday morning in a desperate effort to lobby councillors to save their homes. The move follows a proposal by Queensland based First State Developments Pty Ltd to construct a 17,600-square-metre retail bulk goods and fast food outlet on the Bangalow Road site. First State has signed a contract to purchase the land from the current owner, Keypac Pty Ltd, but it is conditional upon Council rezoning the land for business. First State has offered to carry out a social impact assessment. Residents spokesperson Betty Reynolds, who has lived in the park for six years, said it housed more than 80 families, and more than 100 residents, in 35 relocatable homes and 51 caravans. "A large number of us are over the age of 60 and our oldest resident is 92," Mrs Reynolds said. "We like it here. It's close to medical facilities, transport, families and shops. But the stress is beginning to get to us." Lois Boswell, from the Northern Rivers Tenants Advocacy Service (NRTAS) said that many of the elderly residents had never been to a protest or rally in their lives, but felt they had to make a stand. "Many of the older residents moved to the park to be close to the shops and the hospital. They invested in buying homes they believed were permanent, and can't believe someone is trying to take that away," she said. "The Ballina councillors have been given stories and personal letters from many of the Tinkerbell residents. Imagine being over 80 and losing your home and being forced to move to a place where you know no-one." Ms Boswell said that the estimated cost to move each home was between $12,000 and $15,000. "It would be up to the NSW Residential Tribunal to determine compensation for the removal, transportation and reinstallation of each dwelling, plus other costs," she said. Ms Boswell also claimed the development would draw shoppers away from River Street businesses. Ballina's deputy mayor, Cr Peter Moore, has tabled a motion calling on Ballina Council not to discuss the rezoning of the site at today's meeting, claiming that it would seriously affect the level of low-cost accommodation in the town. Tinkerbell's managers told The Echo they were unable to comment on the matter.
HSC AdviceThe HSC Advice Line is for students preparing for their final exams. The line offers expert advice on 25 different courses for the cost of a local call. It will be open from Tuesday to Thursday, October 2-4 from 4pm-10pm. The Advice Line will then be open every day from Monday, October 8 to Tuesday, November 13 from 4-10pm Monday-Friday, from 10am-6pm on Saturday and from 10am-10pm on Sunday. Based on previous years the best times to call are between 6-7pm each day and Friday evenings as well as Saturday and Sunday mornings. Phone 13 11 12. Aged AttackerPolice have charged a 73-year-old Lismore man with indecent assault and one count of common assault over an alleged attack on a 23-year-old woman in Lismore on Monday night. Police arrested the man on Wednesday. He has been bailed to appear in Lismore Local Court on October 22.
Women Break Through Grass Ceiling
Two woman have broken through the 'grass ceiling' at Lismore City Council, as council's first-ever female apprentices. The four-year apprenticeships feature a mixture of on-the-job training and TAFE study, for Patricia Brown who is studying landscaping, and Kristy Treharne, who has signed on for parks and gardening). The two women will look after Lismore's parks, gardens, sporting fields and roundabouts. Council General Manager Ken Gainger said he was surprised that the two young women were Lismore's first female apprentices "I would hope that more women will choose to see local government as an employment option, and that council's structures are also changing so that non-traditional areas of employment become options for female employees," he said. "It concerns me that only 23 per cent of the council's employees are women, and only 2 per cent of employees are under 21." Council now has six apprentices working for it, and Mr Gainger said council was investigating ways to create more local jobs for young people Lismore City Council has also started a Women's Spokesperson Group to encourage a more active participation by women in the workplace.
Bad Ads ForumThe Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) in conjunction with Lismore BEC, is hosting a special Sky Channel Broadcast on advertising and selling, and what is acceptable, in Lismore next Tuesday. An expert panel will discuss what is dishonest advertising and selling under the Act, how to counter it, and also answer questions. "The topic was selected because of the many complaints received about false advertising, suspicious discounts, fake photographs and the use of small print to hide the exemptions to the 'specials' on offer", ACCC Chairman, Professor Allan Fels, said. The term 'advertising and selling' covers a wide variety of commercial activities including media advertisements, the Internet and door-to-door selling. "Honest advertising benefits both business and consumers. Businesses deserve the protection of the Act against competitors who try to get an edge through misleading advertising," he said. The broadcast is at the Lismore Turf Club next Tuesday, October 2 from 6.30pm. For more details or to make a reservation, phone Tony Zillig at the Lismore BEC on 6622 1933 or visit the ACCC website on www.forums.accc.gov.au
Forest Vandalism Threatens Drinking Water
Vandals have destroyed gates installed to protect the water catchment at Rocky Creek Dam as part of an increasingly violent campaign against road closures in the area. Seven weeks after water authority Rous Water closed two roads in Whian Whian State Forest in an attempt to stop 'doof' dance parties, and dogs and people swimming in creeks feeding in to the catchment, the gates have come under escalating attacks on weekends. Warning signs have been spray-painted out, chains have been cut, and in an attack a fortnight ago, the gateposts were pulled from the ground. The vandals left a computer-printed note behind justifying their actions as resistance against attempts by Rous Water to lock people out of the area. "This has not been a case of mindless violence. The action on these gates has been very thoroughly thought out and has been stage one of an ongoing resistance towards your attitudes and arrogance concerning the caretaking of these forests," the note said. But their actions, which have caused thousands of dollars in damage, have outraged Rous Water's general manager Paul O'Sullivan, who believes the vandals are locals. "I cannot understand the mindset of people who would behave in this way," he said. "We haven't locked people out - they're still free to walk or ride a bike through the area. We were simply taking steps needed to protect the water quality. The gates are there to prevent cars entering the catchment area. We have the support of the local community, which is concerned about what's happening in the catchment." Mr O'Sullivan said the attacks had been reported to the police. Rous Water is now stepping up surveillance in the area in an attempt to catch the people responsible. "Now we're even more determined to eliminate this behaviour from the water catchment area. This is the element we're targeting - the people who caused the problem and forced us to erect the gates in the first place," he said. Along with the vandalism to the gates, hoons had also damaged a number of dirt fire trails. "How can people behave in this way?" Mr O'Sullivan said. "The trails are there to protect the forest and the way things are carved up will prevent fire trucks from using the tracks." Greens Step Up Campaign
As rumours grow that the Federal election may be called this Sunday, the Greens opened their election campaign office in Lismore last week. The party's candidate for the seat of Page, John Corkill, said The Greens were now "moving into a higher gear" with an election due before the end of the year. "The election date will be announced anytime now, and the office gives a base to coordinate our activities and volunteers," Mr Corkill said. "People are welcome to come into the office to find out more about the Greens policies - or me - and what I have planned for Page. We are always looking for more volunteers for the campaign, especially for polling booths on election day. People can also support the Greens by buying a ticket in a fundraising raffle. Tickets are available from the office." The Green campaign office is at 19 Carrington Street (directly opposite Caddies). Phone 6622 0356. Casino holiday funThe North Casino Community (formerly Chequerboard Hill Estate) is hosting a October School Holiday Program from next Tuesday, October 2 until Saturday, October 13. The program will feature a range of activities including screen printing workshops, a kids disco, line dancing and ballet classes, art and craft classes and much more. To make it as accessible as possible to all residents of the North Casino Community, all activities will either free of charge or $2 maximum for an activity. For program details phone 6662 6944.
Double DemeritsAs part of Operation Slowdown, police are warning drivers that over the long weekend there will double demerit points for speeding and seatbelt offences with one extra point for all other traffic offences. Operation Slowdown, starts at 12pm tomorrow, September 28 and ends at midnight on Monday, October 1. Youth CrimeThe first month of Operation Streetsafe, a NSW police initiative targeting youth gangs and street crime, ended last week. A total of 14 Lismore youths, have been arrested with 36 charges or official cautions being recommended. Last Friday, a 17-year-old Lismore youth was arrested and charged with the theft of a motor vehicle. He was granted conditional bail to appear in Lismore Children's Court on October 15. Last Wednesday, three other youths were charged over car thefts and break and enter offences.
Hazelton Flights Still Up in the AirThe future of Hazelton flights from the Northern Rivers to Sydney remains uncertain, despite optimism that a deal will be reached shortly to get planes back in the air on the route. Lismore-based network manager Maurice Gahan has been in talks with senior management and administrator Michael Humphris after the NSW and federal governments offered $6 million in loans to the former Ansett subsidiary. Last Friday, a $3 million loan from NSW premier Bob Carr saw Hazelton begin flights out west to Dubbo, Broken Hill, Orange and Griffith. On Monday, Federal Transport Minister John Anderson also came to the party with a $3 million bridging loan. Administrator Michael Humphris said decision about which routes to reopen next was still being assessed. "The swift recommencement of services will help us to achieve a stable operating cash flow that will give us breathing space to find a long term solution that will deliver the best possible outcome to creditors, staff and regional customers," he said. Mr Humphris said more routes are expected to begin operating this week. But with a long weekend looming, and problems with using Ansett's collapsed ticketing system to overcome, it's unlikely Hazelton planes will return to Lismore and Ballina before next Tuesday. Hazelton is hopeful of initially providing three flights a day. The future of services to Casino remain uncertain. Meanwhile, it appears local councils are $150,000 out of pocket, with Ansett owing Ballina, Lismore and Casino airport landing fees. The money has been frozen by the administrator and councils will be forced to join the queue of creditors owed money by Ansett. On Wednesday, the board of the Inland Marketing Corporation (IMC), a body representing 160 councils, met with the administrator to discuss the IMC's proposal to buy Hazelton and the NSW arm of Kendell Airlines. The IMC is seeking $50,000 from each council to fund the buy out. More than 50 councils have expressed varying degrees of support for the plan. Lismore mayor Bob Gates will bring the matter to council before making a firm commitment. Seven councils have already said they oppose the plan. In the meantime, QantasLink has been running two flights a day from Lismore this week - at 12.15pm and 3.20pm, but has only committed the interim schedule until Friday. For bookings and details, phone 131 313. For details on when Hazelton flights will resume, phone 131 713, or visit www.hazelton.com.au
Gene's Talk of the Town
Gene Peterson, 13, could probably talk the hind leg off a donkey. The year nine Trinity Catholic College student demonstrated his amazing capacity for ad-libbing with style at the 89th Lismore Eisteddfod last week, where he won four of the six categories in the Speech and Drama section. Gene also came second in the other two categories, which earned him the adjudicator's Outstanding Award for Excellence and the title of Intermediate Champion. "I'm speechless," laughed Gene. "Which doesn't happen very often!" The competition required Gene to perform various readings and poetry recitals, and while he has put in a lot of hard work, he says he couldn't have done it without the help of his teacher, Dawn Barrie. "She's the best teacher around - she encouraged me to enter the Eisteddfod and gave me heaps of direction and good advice," Gene said. "She thought I'd do well, but I was still pretty taken aback when the awards were announced. Hearing my name come up once was good enough, let alone eight times! The competition was really tough and I was surprised to win, but I'm really happy and I can't wait to go back and do it all again next year." Thousands of students from Tweed Heads to Grafton travelled to Lismore for the Eisteddfod. Story & photo: Terra Sword
Students Show they're Handy at Work
A work-experience stint at Hardware House has helped seven students from Casino High School's support unit lay the foundation for the world of work. The students have attended the South Lismore store between 10.30am and 2.30pm each Tuesday for the past 10 weeks as part of a transition program which aims to ease them into the community. During that time they have worked in all sections of the business and captured the hearts of the staff at the same time. Support teacher Toni Ivers said the program was a chance for the students to gain first-hand knowledge of the workplace and was especially important to the five Year 12 students who would be leaving school at the end of the year. "They need to carry out another placement next term so if anyone would like to take one or more of them on they can contact me at Casino High School," she said. "I know that one would really like to work at Farmer Charlies." While each of the students had a favourite department, all six agree that the most enjoyable part had been working with Angelo Grande, who had overseen the students during the 10-week program. "They were a bit hesitant at first but they kept taking on more and more jobs as time went on," Angelo said. "We reckon they're now experts in everything from plants and tools to paint and timber. "It's been a real eye opener for us as well as them." Story & photo: Dave Fawkner
Nimbin Show a Great Success
An exhibition of historic photographs proved to be a successful drawcard at last weekend's Nimbin A & I Society Show. The photographs, some dating back to the early 1920s, detailed Nimbin and the surrounding district and prompted much discussion among locals and visitors, according to show society president Phil Williams. "The photographs were a great drawcard and many people took the time to relive memories and recount tales of residents long gone," he said. Rain on Saturday night did little to dampen the spirits of those attending. Mr Williams said there had been a great dog show, a good cattle turnout, magnificent entries in the poultry section and a lot of interest in the pavilion exhibits. "The talent quest, held for the first time this year, was a big success and we'll be definitely considering it for inclusion in next year's program," he said. "We were also delighted with the success of Sunday's pony club events which carried on from Saturday's equestrian program and drew a lot of interest from young people." Dave Fawkner
ABC Friends Challenge CandidatesThe Friends of the ABC are preparing to quiz local candidates about their parties' policies and personal policies on the ABC in the lead up to the federal election. A committee meeting of the Northern Rivers Branch will be held at the Lismore Workers' Club on Tuesday, October 9 at 7.30pm. People wishing to join the Friends should apply in writing to PO Box 167, Alstonville, 2477.
Sunday PeaceThe recently formed 'People Uniting for Peace' Action Group will hold its first gathering this Sunday, September 30, in Lismore's Heritage Park at 3pm. Wet weather cover will be provided. Bring a personal offering for Peace (flower, candle cards, ribbons, pebbles, poems, prayers, photos, artwork or whatever you'd like to place at a 'shrine for peace'). Representatives from various faiths and community organisations have been invited to share their messages of hope in an afternoon that will also feature music To offer help organising Sunday's gathering contact Bob and Brigitte Ross on 6689 7411, or email: bobross@mpx.com.au
Red Cross Remembers Volunteers
A minute's silence for Red Cross volunteers who died while serving humanity added a sombre note to an otherwise cheerful celebration at Lismore City Hall on Tuesday. Red Cross regional manager Vahideh Hosseini said that although it was a day to celebrate the achievement of volunteers as part of the International Year of the Volunteer, it was also a time to remember those who have sacrificed their lives in the service of the biggest humanitarian organisation in the world. Among those remembered was Yvonne Kennedy of Sydney, a Red Cross veteran of more than 25 years, who was aboard the hijacked US airliner which crashed into the Pentagon on September 11. More than 150 people, representing more than 3000 Red Cross volunteers between Kempsey and Tweed Heads attended the ceremony. Story & photo: Dave Fawkner
Backyard BlazeA backyard shed and a vehicle were destroyed last Tuesday when a shed in the backyard of a house in Cathcart Street was accidentally set alight around 11pm. A man who had been using a candle for lighting was in the shed at the time the fire started, crawling through a window to escape the blaze before trying to extinguish it with a garden hose. By the time the fire brigade arrived the fire was out of control and so close to an adjoining block of flats, some of the residents and a pet rabbit were evacuated. Once the fire had been extinguished the residents returned unharmed to the flats. Norco ProfitAfter a difficult 12 months restructuring, Norco Dairy Cooperative announced a $2.7 million profit for the last financial year. Only 12 months ago, the coop was battling to survive, having posted a $4.4m loss, and staggering under debts of close to $30m. Asset sales to reduce the debt, combined with refinancing and improved sales have helped Norco make the dramatic turnaround at a time when other diary cooperatives are now beginning to struggle in the wake of dairy deregulation.
Learn About the Rainforest and Have Fun
If you're interested in local rainforest plants, landcare and the environment then don't miss the third annual Big Scrub Rainforest Day this weekend. The popular event is being held this Sunday, September 30 at Rocky Creek Dam with a host of activities for young and old. Organising committee spokesperson Lisa King said the focus of Rainforest Day is education, information and entertainment for the whole family. "The Day will feature walks, talks and workshops featuring regional rainforest experts," Lisa said. "With less than one per cent of the original Big Scrub remaining we hope to make locals and visitors alike aware of the need to conserve and restore what remains. Guest speakers on the day include biologist and author of Feral Future, Bush Tucker and Bush Medicine books, Tim Low, as well as founder of the Rainforest Information Centre, John Seed, and respected rainforest researchers John Kanowski and Carla Catteral." Walks will be conducted by local environmental experts. Conservation volunteer, Ralph Woodford, will talk on the restoration of Rocky Creek Dam, and there are other talks - on farm forestry by Martin Novak, and Gary Opit with Sue and Hank Bower on the many different birds of the region. Lisa said the day will also feature a number of workshops on practical ways to improve the environment. "The workshops will provide practical instruction on regeneration techniques, plant identification and plant propagation," Lisa said. "Discussion panels will also provide participants with the opportunity to question regeneration practitioners on the contemporary issues in rainforest and riparian restoration. "And just to top it all off, there'll be information displays that are both interactive and interesting, market stalls featuring local arts and crafts, food and drink stalls, raffles, games and heaps of children's activities. The day really has something for everybody and it's an easy and enjoyable way to learn about the environment, so come along and have some fun!" Sponsors of the event include Southern Cross Credit Union, Rous Water, Ginger Necktar, Thursday Plantation, Byron Yoga Centre, The Beach Hotel, Bundaberg Brewed Drinks and the Firewheel Nursery. All proceeds from the event go towards restoration of Big Scrub remnants in the Northern Rivers region. The Big Scrub Rainforest Day runs from 10am-4pm. For more information phone Lisa on 6621 9588 or Kelvin on 6628 1745 or 0428 553 040.
A Jewel by the River
After years of working in the jewellery industry together, Garry Packham and Peter Mangan have joined forces to open their own business, Riverside Jewellers, in Ballina. Garry and Peter both bring a wealth of experience to the new business, having previously worked for Pinkertons Hourglass Jewellers. Garry was employed by the prestigious jewellery company for more than 34 years and Peter for more than 20 years. Garry spent the last 21 years as manager of the Lismore store while Peter was the company's manufacturing jeweller. Garry is a qualified watch repairer, who specialises in mechanical and quartz watches and he is also an expert in jewellery valuations. Peter specialises in hand-made jewellery designs, restorations, remodelling and all other jewellery repair needs from re-sizing ring bands to replacing necklace clasps. All their work is guaranteed and done on the premises. "We've wanted to open our own store for some time and we're looking forward to being able to service the Ballina community," Garry said. "Yes, it's quite exciting," added Peter. "We have a huge pool of expertise between us and more than 50 years combined experience to put into practice. Our main aim is to provide professional, quality workmanship to our clients while also giving them a friendly and reliable service." Riverside Jewellers carry a large range of diamond and precious stone rings, earrings, pendants and brooches as well as a huge array of quality gold and silver charms. The store also stocks silver plate and pewter gifts, watches and clocks, baby and anniversary items and much more. Riverside Jewellers is at 99 River Street, Ballina (opposite Woolworths). Phone 6686 3248.
Centenary BallIf you're into a bit of heel-and-toe or Canadian two-step get along to the Kyogle Centenary Ball tomorrow night, September 28, for a night of partner-swinging fun. The ball will feature heaps of old style dances like the gypsy tap, pride of Erin, heel-and-toe polka, and many more. Performers include the Country Gentlemen, local musician Raylene Melville and bush poet Max Strong. The night will also feature raffles, chocolate spot prizes and a BYO supper to share. If you're into dressing up, come in any 20th century attire. The gig runs from 8pm-12am. Tickets are $10 at the door. Get MotivatedFresh from a starring role in the reality show Boot Camp, motivational speaker, trainer and corporate motivational programmer Tony Rosenbum will facilitate a motivational training camp at Couran Cove Island Resort in Queensland next month. Running November 11-16, camp participants will move through a non-military, inspiring, energy packed program. Fun and motivating team challenge missions play an integral role within the camp program. For details of the camp and to receive a camp schedule contact Susan at teammoto@lis.net.au or phone 6624 4686. Refugee DebateA forum on the rights of asylum seekers will be held at Lismore's Workers Club this Friday September 28, to discuss why increased numbers of people are seeking refuge in Australia, and to put forward humanitarian solutions to this situation. "Both major parties are cynically indulging in xenophobic politics instead of real solutions to the plight of desperate people fleeing intolerable situations" said Edda Lampis of the Socialist Alliance, which is hosting the forum. Forum speakers include NSW Legislative Council member Janelle Saffin, who has worked as a lawyer for refugees, Greens candidate John Corkill, Greg Brown from the Brisbane Refugee Action Collective, and Edda Lampis of Socialist Alliance. The forum begins around 7pm. For details phone Edda Lampis on 6622 5050.
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Peace campaigner Jill Schell and her son Dylan.
NSW Fire Brigade commissioner Ian MacDougall (centre) with retained firefighter Crystal Maher and station officer Andrew McQuade at Goonellabah.
Northern Rivers Classic Motorcycle Club patron Jack Ahearn (left) and with member Paul Gill and his classic 1962 Honda motorcycle, which will be part of the club's annual Classic Rally this weekend.
Steve Cubis (pictured) was busy on Molesworth Street recently, installing colourful Federation banners painted by children from seven local schools. Students from Modanville, Casino, Coffee Camp, and Caniaba primary schools, Young and Powerful, Wilson Park and Juniors from Lismore High all accepted the challenge from Lismore Regional Art Gallery to paint a drop banner with a Federation theme which related to their school and town. The results are a variety of vivid and imaginative banners featuring everything from wildflowers, native animals, flags and maps of Australia to imprints of hands, cattle and a slouch hat. 
Lismore council's first female apprentices - Patricia Brown and Kristy Treharne.
Rous Water general manager Paul O'Sullivan surveys fire trails destroyed by off-road vehicles. 
Opening the Greens campaign office in Lismore is Greens candidate for Page, John Corkill with office manager, Lynda Smith and media coordinator, Andy Gough.
Trinity Catholic College student Gene Peterson with the eight awards he won in the Lismore Eisteddfod speech and drama category.
Teacher Toni Ivers, teachers-aide Helen Munro, Hardware House staff Nathan Lee and Linda Motley, with Ben Eggins, Josh Field, Christie Hicks John Newby, Michael Hamilton and Kylie Bridge (Anthony Speedy absent).
Lismore deputy mayor Merv King and MP Thomas George, plant a memorial tree in the grounds of Lismore City Hall watched by more than 150 Red Cross volunteers.
Big Scrub Rainforest Day organiser Kelvin Davies (right) and Southern Cross Credit Union senior loans office, Neale Wilson inspect a corky prickle vine, one of the many local rainforest plants found at Rocky Creek Dam. Southern Cross Credit Union is a one of the many local sponsors making the event possible.
At the new Riverside Jewellers store in Ballina are proprietors Garry Packham (left) and Peter Mangan with Garry's sister-in-law Mary Ferguson.