Issue 739
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Main News$6m Motel for City
It may be a case of third time lucky for Lismore, with a Queensland developer announcing plans to build a $5 million 4.5 star hotel in the city. While announcements of plan for two major motel complexes in Lismore have failed to come to fruition, developer John Gardner, is confident his heritage-style 70 unit motel on the Bruxner Highway will be up and running within 10 months – and possibly as early as next Easter, creating 30 new jobs. Mr Gardner already has the capital to proceed and has spent more than $1 million purchasing eight blocks on Ballina Street, directly opposite Hungry Jacks. He will submit plans for the locally designed motel following discussions with the local residents and hopes to have an on-site public meeting within a fortnight. The two-storey ‘Lismore Heritage Motel' will occupy Lots 89 to 103 on Ballina Street and also feature a swimming pool, gymnasium, steam room, 150 seat restaurant and two adjoining function rooms catering for up to 200 people. Of the 70 units, more than half will be executive suites 50 per cent larger than standard motel rooms. Undercover, off-street car parking will accommodate 100 vehicles. Mr Gardner hopes to attract the professional and short-stay tourism end of the market. 'I believe Lismore can attract a lot more of the tourist dollars, through packaged tours to the area, eco-tourism and short stays, as well as the conference and professional market – but only if there is a complex of this standard available,' he said. 'Since planning to build and operate this project in Lismore, every drive down here takes a different route so I can plan tours throughout the region using Lismore as the base for the groups.' Mr Gardner and his family plan to relocate to Lismore in the new year. He began investigating investment opportunities in the city when his daughter began looking at local university courses for 2002. He was encouraged by the positive response from council and economic development manager Andrew Lovett. 'The dealings I have had with people in Lismore have been tremendous,' stated Mr Gardner. 'I was thrilled with the support from council and Mr Lovett. From the first day, I came out with a conviction to go ahead because they were so positive, helpful and professional. 'It gave me even more heart and determination to invest in the city – and because of that positive attitude we expanded the project and decided to invest another couple of million in it.' Local business stands to benefit. While local consultants have been engaged, architects Tom Bond and Associates of Jiggi will design the heritage-style building. 'Everyone involved in the construction process through to the expected 30 staff employed to run the day-to-day operation of the complex will be sourced locally,' Mr Gardner said. He hopes to lodge the development application for the project in early November. If it meets council's criteria and is approved before Christmas, Mr Gardner hopes to begin construction in the new year. The Price We PayBy Adam Mayblum
My name is Adam Mayblum. I am alive today. I am committing this to paper so I never forget. So We Never Forget. I am sure that this is one of thousands of stories that will emerge over the weeks. I arrived as usual a little before 8am. My office was on the 87th floor of 1 World Trade Center, aka Tower 1 – the North Tower. Most of my associates were in by 8:30m. We were standing around, joking around, eating breakfast, checking emails, and getting set for the day when the first plane hit just a few stories above us. We did not know that it was a plane. The building lurched violently and shook as if it were an earthquake. People screamed. I watched out my window as the building seemed to move 10 to 20 feet in each direction. It rumbled and shook long enough for me to get my wits and grab a coworker and seek shelter under a doorway. Light fixtures and parts of the ceiling collapsed. The kitchen was destroyed. We were certain that it was a bomb. We looked out the windows. Reams of paper were flying everywhere, like a ticker tape parade. I looked down at the street. I could see people in Battery Park City looking up. Smoke started billowing in through the holes in the ceiling. I believe there were 13 of us. We did not panic. I can only assume that we thought that the worst was over. The building was standing and we were shaken but alive. We checked the halls. The smoke was thick and white and did not smell like I imagined smoke should smell. Not like your BBQ or your fireplace or even a bonfire. The phones were working. My wife had taken our 9-month-old for his check up. I called my nanny at home and told her to page my wife, tell her that a bomb went off, I was ok, and on my way out. I grabbed my laptop. Took off my t-shirt and ripped it into three pieces, soaked it in water, gave two pieces to my friends, tied my piece around my face to act as an air filter, and we all started moving to the staircase. One of my dearest friends said that he was staying until the police or firemen came to get him. In the halls there were tiny fires and sparks. The ceiling had collapsed in the men's bathroom. It was gone along with anyone who may have been in there. We did not go in to look. We missed the staircase on the first run and had to double back. Once in the staircase we picked up fire extinguishers just in case. On the 85th floor, a brave associate and I headed back up to our office to drag out my partner who stayed behind. There was no air, just white smoke. We made the rounds through the office calling his name. No response. He must have succumbed to the smoke. We left defeated in and made our way back to the stairwell. We proceeded to the 78th floor where we had to change over to a different stairwell. 78 is the main junction to switch to the upper floors. I expected to see more people. There were some 50 to 60 more. Not enough. Wires and fires all over the place. Smoke too. A brave man was fighting a fire with the emergency hose. I stopped with two friends to make sure that everyone from our office was accounted for. We ushered them and confused people into the stairwell. In retrospect, I recall seeing Harry, my head trader, doing the same several yards behind me. I am only 35. I have known him for over 14 years. I headed into the stairwell with two friends. We were moving down very orderly in stair case A. Very slowly. No panic, at least not overt panic. My legs could not stop shaking. My heart was pounding. Some nervous jokes and laughter. I made a crack about ruining a brand new pair of Merrells. They were right, my feet felt great. We all laughed. We checked our cell phones. Surprisingly, there was a very good signal, but the Sprint network was jammed. I heard that the Blackberry two-way email devices worked perfectly. On the phones, one out of 20 dial attempts got through. I knew I could not reach my wife so I called my parents. I told them what happened and that we were all okay and on the way down. Soon, my sister in law reached me. I told her we were fine and moving down. I believe that was about the 65th floor. We were bored and nervous. I called my friend Angel in San Francisco. I knew he would be watching. He was amazed I was on the phone. He told me to get out that there was another plane on its way. I did not know what he was talking about. By now the second plane had struck Tower 2. We were so deep into the middle of our building that we did not hear or feel anything. We had no idea what was really going on. We kept making way for wounded to go down ahead of us. Not many of them, just a few. No one seemed seriously wounded. Just some cuts and scrapes. Everyone cooperated. Everyone was a hero yesterday. No questions asked. I had coworkers in another office on the 77th floor. I tried dozens of times to get them on their cell phones or office lines. It was futile. Later I found that they were alive – one of the many miracles on a day of tragedy. On the 53rd floor we came across a very heavy-set man sitting on the stairs. He needed help. I knew I would have trouble carrying him because I have a very bad back. But my friend and I offered anyway. We told him he could lean on us. He hesitated. I said, 'do you want to come or do you want us to send help for you?' He chose for help. I told him he was on the 53rd floor in and that's what I would tell the rescue workers. He said okay and we left. On the 44th floor my phone rang again. It was my parents. They were hysterical. I said relax, I'm fine. My father said get out, there is third plane coming. I still did not understand. I was kind of angry. What did my parents think? Like I needed some other reason to get going? I couldn't move the thousand people in front of me any faster. I know they loved me, but no-one inside understood what the situation really was. My parents did. Around this floor the firemen, policemen, WTC K-9 units without the dogs, anyone with a badge, started coming up as we were heading down. I stopped a lot of them and told them about the man on 53 and my friend on 87. I later felt terrible about this. They headed up to find those people and met death instead. On the 33rd floor I spoke with a man who somehow knew most of the details. He said two small planes hit the building. Now we all started talking about which terrorist group it was. The overwhelming but uninformed opinion was Islamic fanatics. Regardless, we now knew that it was not a bomb and there were potentially more planes coming. We understood. On the 3rd floor the lights went out and we heard and felt this rumbling coming towards us from above. I thought the staircase was collapsing upon itself. It was 10am and Tower 2 was collapsing next door. We did not know that. Someone had a flashlight. We passed it forward and left the stairwell and headed down a dark and cramped corridor to an exit. We could not see at all. I recommended everyone place a hand on the shoulder of the person in front and call out if they hit an obstacle so others would know to avoid it. They did. It worked perfectly. We reached another stairwell and saw a female officer emerge soaking wet and covered in soot. She said we could not go that way, it was blocked. Go up to four and use the other exit. Just as we started up she said it was okay to go down instead. There was water everywhere. I called out for hands on shoulders again and she said that was a great idea. She stayed behind instructing people to do that. I do not know what happened to her. We emerged into an enormous room. It was light but filled with smoke. I commented that it must be under construction. Then we realised where we were. It was the second floor – the one that overlooks the lobby. We were ushered out into the courtyard, where the fountain used to be. My first thought was of a TV movie I saw once about nuclear winter and fallout. I could not understand where all of the debris came from. There was at least five inches of this grey, pasty, dusty drywall soot on the ground as well as a thickness of it in the air. Twisted steel and wires. I heard there were bodies and body parts as well, but I did not look. It was bad enough. We hid under the remaining overhangs and moved out to the street. We were told to keep walking towards Houston Street. The odd thing is that there were very few rescue workers around. Less than five. They all must have been trapped under the debris when Tower 2 fell. We did not know that and could not understand where all of that debris came from. It was just my friend Kern and I now. We were hugging but sad. We felt certain that most of our friends ahead of us died and we knew no-one behind us. We came upon a post office several blocks away. We stopped and looked up. Our building, exactly where our office is (was), was engulfed in flame and smoke. A postal worker said that Tower 2 had fallen down. I looked again and sure enough it was gone. My heart was racing. We kept trying to call our families. I could not get in touch with my wife. Finally I got through to my parents. Relieved is not the word to explain their feelings. They got through to my wife, thank God and let her know I was alive. We sat down. A girl on a bike offered us some water. Just as she took the cap off her bottle we heard a rumble. We looked up and our building, Tower 1 collapsed. I did not note the time but I am told it was 10:30am. We had been out less than 15 minutes. We were mourning our lost friends, particularly the one who stayed in the office as we were now sure that he had perished. We started walking towards Union Square. I was going to Beth Israel Medical Center to be looked at. We stopped to hear the President speaking on the radio. My phone rang. It was my wife. I think I fell to my knees crying when I heard her voice. Then she told me the most incredible thing. My partner who had stayed behind called her. He was alive and well. I guess we just lost him in the commotion. We started jumping and hugging and shouting. My brother and I managed to get a gypsy cab to take us home to Westchester. I cried on my son and held my wife until I fell asleep. As it turns out my partner, the one who I thought had stayed behind was behind us with Harry Ramos, our head trader. This is now second hand information. They came upon Victor, the heavyset man on the 53rd floor. They helped him. He could barely move. My partner bravely/stupidly tested the elevator on the 52nd floor. He rode it down to the sky lobby on 44. The doors opened, it was fine. He rode it back up and got Harry and Victor. I don't yet know if anyone else joined them. Once on 44 they made their way back into the stairwell. Someplace around the 39th to 36th floors they felt the same rumble I felt on the 3rd floor – Tower 2 was coming down. They had about 30 minutes to get out. Victor said he could no longer move. They offered to have him lean on them. He said he couldn't do it. My partner hollered at him to sit on his butt and schooch down the steps. He said he was not capable of doing it. Harry told my partner to go ahead of them. Harry had once had a heart attack and was worried about this man's heart. It was his nature to be this way. He was/is one of the kindest people I know. He would not leave a man behind. My partner went ahead and made it out. He said he was out maybe 10 minutes before the building came down. This means that Harry had maybe 25 minutes to move Victor 36 floors. I guess they moved 1 floor every 1.5 minutes. Just a guess. This means Harry was around the 20th floor when the building collapsed. As of now 12 of 13 people are accounted for. Pray for him and all those like him. With regards to the firemen heading upstairs, I realise that they were going up anyway. But, it hurts to know that I may have made them move quicker to find my friend. Rationally, I know this is not true and that I am not the responsible one. The responsible ones are in hiding somewhere on this planet and damn them for making me feel like this. But they should know that they failed in terrorising us. We were calm. Those men and women that went up were heroes in the face of it all. They must have known what was going on and they did their jobs. Ordinary people were heroes too. Today the images that people around the world equate with power and democracy are gone, but 'America' is not an image it is a concept. That concept is only strengthened by our pulling together as a team. If you want to kill us, leave us alone because we will do it by ourselves. If you want to make us stronger, attack and we unite. This is the ultimate failure of terrorism against the United States and the ultimate price we pay to be free, to decide where we want to work, what we want to eat, and when and where we want to go on vacation. The very moment the first plane was hijacked, democracy won.
Golden Help Rewarded
A team of 35 local volunteers has won the Gold award at the National Health and Medical Research Council's Health Volunteer Awards, announced by federal Health Minister Dr Michael Wooldridge yesterday. The team won the national title for their work with a young Lismore man, Bill Hawkins, who has ‘locked in' syndrome. Bill was in a car accident 11 years ago, leaving him unable to independently move or talk. Since then, the volunteers have helped Bill do physiotherapy exercises and keep him in touch with the outside world, filling an important need for Bill's parents who care for him around the clock. 'The single most important thing to Bill's wellbeing are the volunteers and he is in an amazingly good physical condition due to their support and energy,' his mother, Lyndie, said. 'These people are just wonderful – some of them have been coming here for the past 11 years and I think it's just fantastic that have been recognised for their amazing contribution. They bring so much positive energy into the house and they are so enthusiastic, which is infectious and extremely therapeutic for Bill and me. This award is exactly what these wonderful people deserve.' Dr Wooldridge said the national winners were chosen from among thousands of health volunteers. 'These people represent the ultimate in selfless contribution by Australians to their local health organisations,' the Minister said. Bill's team can always use more volunteers. To get involved phone Lyndie on 6625 2689. The team's national win followed their recent gold award in the state competition. Two silver awards where won by local volunteers in the NSW awards. Lifeline Northern Rivers won silver for their 24-hour counselling service. The centre, which began in 1983, responds to an average of 600 calls each month, and there are currently 85 volunteer telephone counsellors. Ron Pearson from Lennox Head also won a silver award for his work with the Cancer Council in the last three years. Ron visits primary schools and childcare centres to educate children on the importance of sun protection. Story & photo: Terra Sword
Soul Music for Soupie
The Soup Kitchen was destroyed in a fire in August, so Razwack Acrobat, El Gonzo Green, Swanky Dee and Counterstroke performed free. Pictured are Razwack Acrobat's Clare Hopper, Tatts Hotel proprietor Ben Conte and Ewan Williams presenting a cheque for $500 to Soup Kitchen committee vice president Murray Harding and committee members Mieka Bell and Judy Williams. Mr Harding said the gig is a good reminder of the great things young people are doing. 'It really restores your faith – it's great to see young people are aware of things happening in their community and have the initiative to do something to help,' he said. Ewan, who plays in El Gonzo Green, said it was great to see bands doing something for the community. 'We're all thrilled so many people turned out to show their support for something like the Soup Kitchen, which needs help get back on its feet.' Terra Sword Hazelton Returns to Local Skies
Hazelton Airlines return to the skies over Lismore and Ballina on Tuesday with three flights a day to Sydney. While the company is still under administration following the collapse of Ansett on September 14, $6 million in NSW and federal government loans got the regional airline back in the air, although the news was not so good for the 10,000 passengers per annum from Casino. Lismore-based network manager Maurice Gahan informed Casino Council last Friday that Hazelton would not be flying out of the town now or in the future. Instead Hazelton is running a triangulated service from Lismore via Ballina to Sydney. As a result 28 locally-based staff have been able to return to work. Four part-time staff in Casino have lost their jobs. With the administrator, Michael Humphris, assessing the viability of the Northern Rivers service on a weekly basis as he searches for a buyer for the airline, Mr Gahan is urging local passengers to throw their support behind Hazelton. 'We're pleased to be back and serving this community. But right now, we're asking the Northern Rivers to get behind the future of Hazelton and its local employees and fly with us. Our prices are as reasonable as ever and discounted fares are available,' he said. 'Last year, Hazelton gave out $150,000 in sponsorship, which helped a lot of families, charities, arts and sporting groups. Now we need your help.' On Tuesday, the first Sydney-bound flight, at 6.35am, saw the 36-seat plane almost half full with 16 passengers. For now, passengers have to book directly with the airline until the computer ticketing system can be restored so travel agents have access to bookings. 'Because Hazelton was part of the Ansett reservations system, we've been forced to restart using a manual system, which has caused some delays for passengers wanting to support us,' Mr Gahan said. 'We've been working on the problem and hope to have a fully automated booking and ticketing system in place by this Friday so passengers can book through their travel agent.' Hazelton's return to Lismore, where the plane ‘overnights', has been welcomed by Lismore council general manager Ken Gainger. 'It's good news for Lismore and the 47,000 passengers who use the airport annually,' he said. 'Lismore is a profitable route and has a loyal passenger base from businesses and government departments.' Meantime, Hazelton will need to capture lost market share in Ballina from rival Qantas, which has increased its capacity by 40 per cent to offer 100,000 seats in the 118,000 passenger market. But a more pressing challenge is to find a buyer for the airline to secure its long-term viability. The Echo understands that the company's founder, Max Hazelton, is part of a consortium looking at buying the airline, while the administrator has received several expressions of interest for Hazelton, which Ansett bought for $27 million. Maurice Gahan remains optimistic about the future. 'Once the issue of ownership is settled, we're looking forward to continuing to be part of the local community,' he said. To book a flight, phone 131 713, or phone the Lismore office on 6627 6100.
Alstonville Third Village ‘on hold' for 10 YearsA third village on the Alstonville Plateau has been put on hold for at least 10 years following fierce opposition from residents during community consultation into the proposal. ýallina Council voted 7-2 to accept a report from consultants GeoLINK, which found that the development of a third village is not in the community's best interest at the present time. It also recommends that any further investigation of the concept be delayed for at least a decade. In accepting the report, council decided to discontinue the current investigation and will stick with its current development strategy for the plateau. That includes a no-growth policy for Alstonville, continued residential releases in Wollongbar and the discouraging of ‘edge' development in both villages. However, Council left the door open for future councils to reconsider the matter in 2011 should population growth exceed the current projections. Having rejected the third village, the next step for council and the community is a public meeting to discuss current planning problems on the plateau, to be held at the Alstonville Leisure and Entertainment Centre on October 24. Cr Marilyn Perkins said that there was no question of keeping the third village debate alive in its present form. 'However, we must recognise that another issue, that of future population growth on the plateau, is yet to be properly addressed,' she said. 'Hopefully, the public meeting will begin to look at this and other issues.' Dave Fawkner
ABC FriendsThe 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. Attacker GuiltyAn Alstonville man has been found guilty of causing grevious bodily harm to a woman he attacked in 1998. A jury in Lismore District Court found Peter Leslie Martin of Alstonville guilty to charges of maliciously inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent and malicious wounding following assaults on an Alstonville couple in June 1998. Martin has been remanded in custody for sentencing on October 8.
Walk to WorkThis Friday, October 5, is Walk to Work Day, an event organised by the Pedestrian Council of Australia to promote walking to reduce traffic and pollution problems and encourage healthy activity. Walking is an easy way to stay fit and healthy. People who walk regularly tend to have lower blood pressure and are less likely have a heart attack or stroke. To take part, all you have to do is walk – but don't overdue it, wear a hat and sunscreen, along with sensible shoes. For advice on local walking activities, call 131 302. Art Display Wins by a Nose
Summerland Sports has won a $400 advertising voucher with The Northern Rivers Echo, after winning the Lismore City Art Prize CBD Shop Display Competition recently. The competition required businesses to choose an artwork from last year's Lismore City Art Prize and display it in an innovative and creative way to enhance both the artwork and the CBD. The are currently 23 works on display in businesses around the CBD. The winning display featured a painting of jockey Chris Munce, who won the 1998 Melbourne Cup on the mighty horse, Jezabeel. The painting, entitled The Larger Than Life Jockey, was done by local artist Dianne Ingram. The work took out the Quinella, also winning a $350 jewellery voucher for the artist, courtesy of the Lismore Jewel Centre, after a panel of judges selected it as a best work on show around town The display, created by Summerland Sports' proprietor Lee Cheli and Bev Latimer, even features silks worn by Chris's great grandfather a century earlier. Other displays commended by the judges include the impressive portrayal of dancer Michael Hennessy at the Lismore Jewel Centre and a witty display based around community worker Judith Light at Graham Gooley optometrist. Of course this years Lismore City Art Prize exhibition continues at Lismore Regional Art Gallery until October 11.
Caravan Park Residents Fight for Future
The battle to redevelop Ballina's Tinkerbell caravan park took to the streets on Thursday when more than 50 residents of the park protested outside Ballina Council prior to its monthly meeting. Queensland based property developer First State has announced plans to build a major retail outlet on the Tinkerbell site, but the park's residents, many of them elderly, don't want to lose their homes. The proposal is taking a dramatic toll on the health and wellbeing of the park residents, and those who listened to the Council debate left far from happy, according to Tinkerbell residents' spokeswoman Betty Reynolds. 'The owners have to relocate us, but it only has to be within 300km, which means they could offer me a site at Coffs Harbour or Tweed Heads,' she said A fellow resident, the Rev Ian Davis is an RSL minister and the chaplain of the Ballina Ex-services Hostel. He has lived at the Tinkerbell park with his wife Joyce for the past 12 years. 'It's convenient because I am called upon to carry out around eight ceremonies a year for the RSL as well as making weekly visits to the hostel,' Rev Davis said. 'It will be inconvenient for a whole lot of people if I have to move.' Mrs Reynolds said the issue was causing residents a great deal of stress and should be resolved quickly. 'Since First State announced its plans one of our residents has had a stroke, two have had heart attacks and one of those is still in intensive care,' Mrs Reynolds said. 'Several others are being treated for nervous rashes.' Meanwhile, inside the chamber, one of the first acts of new mayor Peter Moore was withdrawing his motion to reject the rezoning application to rezone the park, following concerns about the legal ramifications. Lawyers representing the landowner wrote to the council warning that rejecting the proposal before it was properly assessed 'will have denied natural justice to both the Applicant and the Owner'. The application, which was lodged two days earlier, is expected to come before council's October meeting. Story & photo: Dave Fawkner
Ballina Opts for Youthful Mayor
Cr Peter Moore is the new mayor of Ballina. He was elected in a three way vote with Crs Alan Rich and Phil Silver at last Thursday's council meeting. After Cr Silver was eliminated and his preferences distributed, Cr Moore received 5 votes to Cr Rich's 4. Cr David Wright, Ballina's mayor for the past two years, earlier refused to accept nomination for the position, citing family reasons. Cr Wright, who is a full-time school teacher and a single parent of two, said he wished to reduce his workload during his daughter's HSC studies next year. Following Cr Moore's election Crs John Felsch, Sue Dakin and Avis Kennedy stood for deputy mayor and received three votes each. General manager Stuart McPherson then declared that one of the candidates would be eliminated by having their name drawn from a hat and invited a member of the media to perform the act. When Cr Dakin's name was drawn, her preferences gave Cr Felsch 5 votes and Cr Kennedy 4 (Cr Dakin was then heard to remark in a tone she usually reserves for Crs Rich and Howes that she would no longer be sharing sweets with the media during meetings). Cr Moore paid tribute to Cr Wright's two terms as mayor, describing him as a great mentor. 'I've worked with David for six years, the past two of them under his leadership,' Cr Moore said. 'We all face a number of challenges in Ballina over the next year including the development of Fawcett Street, the airport and the creation of further employment. 'I look forward to working with many economic, social, sporting and other groups in the shire and I hope that I am able to do so by being, like David has been, a mayor for all sections of the community. 'I also look forward to working with Cr Felsch who has a wealth of experience gained in local government over the past 30 years.' Story & photo: Dave Fawkner
Students Learn Bush Fire Skills
Pictured are Kadina High School teacher Jim Hartley and Lismore District fire control officer Ray Collyer (rear centre) and volunteer trainers from the Rural Fire Service Chris Hartley, Arthur Elledge and James Chamberlain with Kadina High School students (clockwise from front left) Chad Browning, Nick Forbes, Jay Onslow, Anthony Moss, Craig Hosking, Ty Woodford, Renee Golding, Lorraine Thomas and Jessica Behan. The course, run by Rural Fire Service volunteers, covers emergency bush fire procedures, communication, occupational health and safety issues and basic first aid – all core areas of the Primary Industry subject. 'In the Lismore District we have 19 brigades and more than 350 volunteers, however, that number is slowly decreasing. These sorts of courses demonstrate to young people the value in community organisations and will hopefully entice them to get involved,' said volunteer trainer, James Chamberlain. Student Craig Hosking was inspired to sign up with the Clunes brigade just days after he completed the course. 'The volunteers made it sound like hard work but also a lot of fun, and I think it's good to do something for the community,' Craig said. Graduates Make Their Mark
More than 488 Southern Cross University students graduated in Lismore recently. Robin Osborne photographed proud families and those who came to mark the occasion. Meeting on Evans Head health needs Evans Heads is one of 30 small local communities chosen to participate in a comprehensive village and small-town primary health survey. The Northern Rivers Division of General Practice (NRDGP) is putting together a picture of health needs in the region by undertaking community consultation with the selected communities. Researchers are visiting communities to hear what residents are really concerned about and will hold forums in halls, schools and clubs. They will concentrate on community-based primary health and doctor-related issues The Evans Head community health forum will be held at the RSL Club on Monday, October 15, at 10.30am. If you want to attend, register on 6622 4453. 'Locals will be able to have an input into decision making about their health needs by attending the forum, or by completing a simple survey if they can‚t get there,' researcher John Hale said. The community-driven solutions will be written up for recommendation to the Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care. 'We know we need more doctors and better primary health care in the Northern Rivers, but exactly where and why, we want to find out,' John said.
Exercise Helps Respiratory Disease
Phil Barter, an 84-year-old war veteran, has chronic respiratory disease. Phil is taking part in a new eight-week exercise program in Lismore to help people like him improve their breathing. The pulmonary rehabilitation program is aimed at adults with chronic respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, chronic bronchitis and bronchiectasis, who suffer breathlessness on a daily basis. 'The exercise and education programs are individually tailored to the patient,' Cecily Barrack, area respiratory coordinator, said. 'They have been shown to produce excellent outcomes in exercise capacity, oxygen uptake, quality of life, anxiety and depression, and number of hospital admissions,' In Lismore the program is held at St Vincent's Hospital three times a week. The eight member group features patients aged from their 30s to 80s. Some need oxygen to exercise. 'It's been really challenging,' says David Fisher, the respiratory liaison worker running the classes, 'but once you get them started, it can be hard to slow them down! They are all very motivated.' A program is due to start in Kyogle in mid October. The program is a joint initiative of the Northern Rivers Division of General Practice and the Northern Rivers Area Health Service.
Amnesty ExtensionPolice Minister, Paul Whelan, yesterday announced a one-month extension for the Firearms Amnesty after it's overwhelming success. Mr Whelan said there are 3,622 few illegal firearms in NSW because of the amnesty, which began on June 29. The one-month extension will run until November 2, 2001. 'This is a one-off extension and the message is clear – anyone who doesn't surrender or register their firearm by November 2 will face the full force of the law,' Mr Whelan said. The extension coincides with a six month amnesty for the owners of antique breach-loading firearms manufactured before 1900.
Council OnlineBallina Council is now online with the website www.ballinacouncil.com.au launched last week. Ballina Council General Manager, Stuart McPherson, encourages all local residents to visit the site and have a look. 'We want the site to reflect the needs of our community' he said today, 'so have a look at what is there, and email in your suggestions. We plan to keep updating the site to ensure it is relevant, and we need local input to do so.' The website offers information for residents, visitors and anyone who wants to business with Council.
Youth Crime Over-Exaggerated: Expert
A community forum about youth crime and safety issues, No Respect These Days, was a bit of a 'reality check' for people about the state of youth crime, according to Lismore's crime prevention development officer, Punita Boardman. The theme of the forum, hosted by Lismore City Council last week, was ‘respect: a two way street'. It was well attended, with Lismore mayor Bob Gates present as well as young people, legal professionals, police, councillors and workers from health and welfare agencies. 'The forum really highlighted the need for recreational activities and better services for young people in Lismore, like the need for a Youth Centre and improved transport,' Punita said. 'The forum was also a good chance for adults in the community to see the realities surrounding youth crime – only 1.5 per cent of young people in NSW come before the courts and 70 per cent of them will never reoffend. This is a very small percentage and it's often blown out of proportion by negative media coverage and the fact that youth crimes are often fairly visible, like vandalism. 'Young people aged between 10 and 25 are actually more likely to be victims than any other age group and I think the forum was a bit of a reality check and illustrated this well. Basically it helped bring together all sides of the debate so we could discuss solutions.' Story & photo: Terra Sword
Over 50s On the Move
The Lismore Over 50s Learning Centre has secured new premises at the Girl Guides Hall in Magellan Street after leaving the Lismore Neighbourhood Centre. According to coordinator of the centre, Ann Johnson, the new location is spacious, comfortable and perfectly suited to the centre's needs. 'Because of the controversy surrounding the Lismore Neighbourhood Centre and its relocation, it was recommended we find new premises,' Ann said. 'The Girl Guides Hall is actually a perfect venue for the centre's activities because the rooms are really big, airy and bright, which makes the classes very pleasant.' The Lismore Over 50s Learning Centre offers a variety of activities including classes in art and craft, exercise, woodwork, calligraphy, computers, dancing and much more. The Centre's term four begins at the end of October. Enrolment day is on Friday, October 19 at the hall from 9.30-11am, which also offers information on the different activities. For more information phone Ann on 6628 2199 or 6624 1847.
Oz Day Hosts WantedRichmond Valley Council is seeking expressions of interest from local communities, organisations, clubs and associations to host the 2002 Australia Day celebrations. Australia Day 2002 will be held on Saturday, January 26, and any interested parties should provide details about the proposed venue and program to the Council by Monday, October 22. Those groups who have previously written to Council expressing interest in the program are welcome to re-apply. For more information, phone Lawrie Bonnor on 6660 0313 or Rod Caldicott on 6660 0324.
Hear Hear for Quota Help
People with impaired hearing, undergoing knee and hip replacement operations at Lismore Base Hospital, will be a lot better prepared now that Quota has captioned the two educational videos on the operations. The captioning was an initiative of Quota International's District 24, which includes the six clubs serviced by Lismore Base Hospital – Lismore, Alstonville/Wollongbar, Casino, Kyogle, Brunswick Valley and Lower Clarence. 'A lot of people who need these replacements are older and often can't hear very well and therefore find the video very little help,' District 24 hearing and speech committee member Ann Thompson said. 'Now these people can access what the non-hearing impaired community takes for granted. The videos go through the procedure with the viewer and explain what will happen as well as show what before and after exercises and care will be needed. This allows people better prepared both mentally and physically.' Perioperative Unit nurse unit manager Lisa Estreich said the captioning was a good example of the community working with the health service to provide better outcomes for patients. Terra Sword
Visit a Garden this Weekend
When Shirley and Vince Boyle moved onto their property near Bangalow almost 10 years ago they had no grand plans for a garden. According to Shirley however, the first summer was they spent there was 'wicked' and she promptly planted shade trees right around the perimeter of the property to ward off the harsh sun. 'There's was nothing but a bare paddock and a bunch of weeds, but after I put the shade trees in, the garden just grew from there... I love growing things and being outside,' Shirley said. 'I might have silver hair but I've still got a lot of energy and gardening is a great way to release energy. It's not a perfect garden but I love it and I want to share it with other people. I really get a kick out of it when people come and have a look.' The garden is a beautiful park-like garden with some beautiful natives and a huge array of exotic flowers, and it also features a massive variety of citrus trees and stonefruits as well as rainforest trees. Shirley and Vince's spectacular garden, which they fondly call Emly Park, is one of two gardens open this Saturday and Sunday, October 6-7 as part of the Australian Open Garden Scheme. Emly Park is at the end of Slattery's Lane, off the Bangalow-Lismore Road. The other garden is owned by Gloria and Brian Kennedy, who are showing off their magnificent flower and rainforest garden for the first time at 175 Broken Head Road, Suffolk Park. Both gardens are open from 10am-4.30pm each day and entry is $4.50 per garden for adults, with children under 18 free. Tea and lunch is available at both gardens. For directions phone 6622 0122 or phone 1902 261 026 and select 2.
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Motel developer John Gardner (third from left) with Lismore mayor Bob Gates, real estate agent Paul Deegan (right) of LJ Hooker, who has helped negotiations for the purchase of the site and Damian Chapelle (left) of Lismore consulting surveyors and planners Walker Newton and Denny, survey the location for thecity's first 4.5 star motel.
The world trade tower as it was. - Photo Simon Thomsen
Bill Hawkins with his mum Lyndie and some of the volunteers from the Gold Award-winning team (clockwise from bottom left) Aloha Lambert, Neale Newton, Owen Tanks, David Mudge and Mellisa Hayworth.
A benefit night for the Lismore Soupie, put on by musician and Echo staff member Ewan Williams, with help from four local bands, has raised $500. 
Hazelton network manager Maurice Gahan with Lismore-based customer service officers (l-r) Angelique Walsh, Andrew Gahan, Claire Hagan and Kim Egan.
The Echo's sales and marketing manager, Heather Williams, and Lismore Regional Art Gallery director, Irena Hatfield present Summerland Sports' proprietor, Lee Cheli, with her prize for displaying art in the CBD.
Alan Fratyer, aka Captain Hook, used a fist-full of Monopoly money to make the two Tinkerbells, Saralara Canin-Henkel and Jacinta Frater disappear during Thursday's protest. Behind them are the Rev Ian Davis and his wife Joyce.
Ballina's new mayor Cr Peter Moore, left, with former mayor Cr David Wright, and new deputy Cr John Felsch.
As part of their Primary Industries studies, 15 senior Kadina High students have completed a four day basic rural fire training course.
Phil Barter of Goonellabah, a war veteran in his 80s, finds the respiratory rehabilitation program very useful and is determined to stick it out for the eight weeks.
Lismore City Council's youth development officer, Colleen Dowd, crime prevention development officer, Punita Boardman and senior constable Michael Hogan with young people (l-r) Katherine and Jeremy Lay and Gemma Roberts, who attended the forum.
Lismore Over 50s Learning Centre coordinator Ann Johnson with the keys to the centre's new premises, the Girl Guides Hall in Magellan Street.
Perioperative unit nurse unit manager, Lisa Estreich with Quota's 24th district hearing and speech committee member, Ann Thompson (centre) and Quota volunteers (l-r) Rhonda Watts, Edna Fuller, Julia Adlington, Shirley Armstrong, Karolyn Mulligan, Judy Waring, Kerry Innes and Diana Cooper.
Shirley and Vince Boyle's beautiful garden Emly Park, is open to visitors this weekend.