Northern Rivers Talking Turkey

The Maples rock Ukitopia

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 02:00:14 +0000

The Maples, Kyogle’s emerging youth band, has struck gold yet again. On Sunday 20th November, at the Ukitopia Music Festival, The Maples rocked the stage at the Mt Warning Hotel, Uki.Their repertoire consisted of classic rock, “Maplicious” blues and jazz and for the first time, with a lot of nerves, they let loose with their originals. The nerves were not needed, as they were rewarded with a dance floor full of enthusiastic fans.Upon talking with the band afterwards, Ethan Reilly said “We play the music we love, so we love to play the music”. This certainly was quite apparent on the day. The band also wanted to thank Lil Fi who has supported and promoted them from the get go, back when they had their first gig as her supporting act at the Blues Night held in Kyogle.The Maples were seen by visitors from all over South East Queensland and Northern NSW and have had booking offers at the Gold Coast and Brisbane. So join “The Maples” on Facebook to keep up to date with their gig dates and other information.For all booking enquiries email:themaplesenquiries@gmail.com or ring Linda on 0427 099 238.

Jurassic Joe releases DVD

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:59:00 +0000

Many of you would have the first children’s CD put out by Jurassic Joe (aka Joe Landers) some years ago, so it will come as no surprise to learn that, having travelled extensively throughout Australia performing his Jurassic dinosaur shows, he has released a fantastic DVD called Jurassic Joe Live at Queensland Museum – a perfect Christmas present for children of all ages. Joe was performing on the street in Kyogle when I caught up with him, and he had a host of children joining him, singing his songs and dancing to the beat. One young family had caught his show in Melbourne and was thrilled to see him here as well. Joe told me that he has had a wonderful response to his live shows, and his enjoyment in entertaining littlies is apparent. “But I wouldn’t give up my teaching,” he said. “I love it too much.” Fay Fardon – Kyogle correspondent

Roxy Gallery presents…

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:58:11 +0000

‘Once Again’ is an exhibition of colour, vibrancy and high quality works artists from throughout the region, many local to Kyogle. Each year at this time the Roxy Gallery conducts an exhibition with gift giving in mind. The works on display and for sale in this exhibition can be purchased and removed from the gallery prior to the closure of the exhibition allowing people to organise their Christmas Gifts in time . ‘Once Again’ will be on display until 28th January 2012 allowing plenty of time for people to stop into the gallery and admire the creative talents residing in our local area. A variety of works from photography, prints, drawings, ceramics, and fabric have been arranged to produce a very spectacular exhibition.The Director of the Roxy Gallery, along with the Kyogle Council would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank the many willing volunteers that assist in keeping the gallery open to the general public. There are a lot of wonderful people living in our community and their engagement in supporting the arts is testament to the success of the Roxy Gallery. To date over five thousand people have visited the gallery in 2011, this is not inclusive of how many people will visit ‘Once Again’. The exhibition program for 2012 is completely filled with eleven new exhibitions of work from people living in our area to look forward to and bookings are filling fast for exhibition space for 2013. So if you are interested in having a show at the Roxy Gallery now is the time to get serious and organise a space for 2013, leaving plenty of time to get the work done.To all the lovers of art and creative expression wishing you a merry, safe and colourful festive season.

Exhibition: Once AgainDates: Til 28th Jan 2012

Letter to the editor

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:55:45 +0000

Dear EditorIn the last issue of the Northern Rivers Talking Turkey Issue 92 dated 1st December 2011, a reader urged us to support local businesses by buying local produce either at the new IGA Supermarket or visiting the Farmers’ Market. Where necessary, they also encouraged the purchase of international goods marketed under the Fair Trade banner.Yes, we should encourage people to support “LOCAL” businesses and farmers who grow produce for the market as this helps keep your money within the area. However, all is not what it seems. Take the small section at IGA boldly signed, “Northern Rivers Food – Finest Local Produce” for example. Sadly I was disappointed to find that a brand of coffee named after a well known coastal lowland town has used almost entirely “International Coffee” and the odd “International and Australian Coffee” in its products. Can you tell me when has “International” become acceptable as LOCAL PRODUCE? I think this is rather deceptive and calls in to question the integrity of such promotions as I am sure the relevant consumer authority might agree.As for the Farmers’ Market, it would appear the original charter for these types of markets has been compromised as RESELLERS have been allowed to operate “supermarket” size stalls and thereby overshadowing local farmers who actually grow the produce they sell. Yes, there is a place for Resellers at markets, but their role is to augment what local growers cannot produce in this area (and out-of-season fruit) because of climate and other factors. Money spent at the Resellers DOES NOT stay in the area as they are generally not local.I won’t go in to the Fair Trade issue in detail other than to say that coffee growers in a central American country receive the equivalent of around $0.40 per kilo for coffee parchment and yet you will have to pay between $50.00 and $70.00 per kilo under the Fair Trade banner. Not entirely FAIR TRADE is it!

S Phillips

Kyogle

Email: news@nrtt.com.auSMS: 0428 321 174

Post to PO Box 147Kyogle NSW 2474

Granny’s Good Oil

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:54:02 +0000

Old Fashioned Handy Hints*

New bath or kitchen towels will be more absorbent if soaked in a bucket of water with two handfuls of Epsom salts for 24 hours.* For urine stains, sponge with a solution of one teaspoon of detergent, one teaspoon of white vinegar and one litre of warm water.* A cloth soaked in a fizzy soft drink will quite often loosen a rusted bolt.* Make an attractive curtain rod by attaching a carved door knob to each end of a thick dowel. Then dye with furniture stain to match the room.* When making a big quantity of sandwiches, cream butter in an electric mixer and then combine with the filling. Saves spreading time and especially great when making egg, sweet corn, baked beans, asparagus and many others. The filling always stays on the bread.* Don’t throw away the crusty ends of bread. Make them into breadcrumbs and store in handy amounts in the freezer. They can be used without thawing, or when the oven is being used place the crusty ends of stale bread on the bottom, leave until brown and crush into bread crumbs.* Egg yolks can be stored covered with water or a small quantity of melted butter in the refrigerator for up to five days.* After burning the bottom of a saucepan, dry the inside of the pot with paper towels, cover the area with White King bleach and rinse and it will look like new again.* For extra softness, put a capful of creme hair rinse in the rinse water when hand washing sweaters.* Always rinse floors thoroughly before applying self polishing wax. Traces of soap, detergent or other cleaners used in water will blend with the wax and spoil the final finish.* Dye that has run from one article to another should be rubbed with a mixture of 3 or 4 drops of household ammonia in 1 teaspoon of methylated spirits, working from the outside of the stain towards the centre. * For great tasting fish make a beer batter by combining plain flour and salt with enough beer to make a smooth mixture. When adding the beer ensure that it is cold. No need to flour dust the fish first just dip in the batter and pan or deep fry. Absolutely delicious.

Kyogle P A & H Society Annual General Meeting

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:53:08 +0000

Notice is hereby given that the Kyogle P A & H Society (Show Society) will hold its AGM on Monday Feb 13th 2012 at 7-00PM at the Kyogle Showground. Written nominations for the position of President, 2 Vice Presidents, Treasurer and Public Officer will be received up until 4-00PM Monday February 6th 2012. Nominations to be posted to The Secretary, PO Box 19, Kyogle 2474. The nominations to be signed by two committee members and be signed by the Candidate.All Society members are encouraged to attend the meeting and vote. Only members who are financial at the time of the meeting are eligible to vote and as the Society’s financial year runs from Jan 1 to Dec 31 members will have to pay their dues ($10-00 single, $20-00 double) on the night of the meeting, or beforehand if they wish to vote. For any enquiries, or to get a nomination form please phone Wendy on 6633 1276 AH, or 0438 554 385 any time.Wendy Piggott, Secretary.

Kyogle Toy Library

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:52:49 +0000

The Toy Library will be closed from 16th December, 2011 and will re-open on 2nd February, 2012. We would like to take this opportunity to thank every one for their support during the year and wish you all a very happy and safe Christmas and New Year

Kyogle SES unit street stall

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:52:31 +0000

The Kyogle SES Unit held their annual street stall on 9th Dec. Was a very successful day and the members would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their support at this stall and also through the year. Hopefully they will have the same support next year. Lucky winner of the $400-00 linen hamper was W. Lord 2nd prize went to Gloria McQueen, may see her snapping some photos with this great camera, 3rd prize was a George n Foreman grill and Hazel Brown will be able to do some healthy meals on that, 4th prize went to E. Jones and there will be no excuse to run late now, Joan Fuller was the lucky winner of the ham and 6th prize went to Shirley Dooley. Congratulations to all the lucky winners and thanks for your support. Hope Santa stocks your pillow case with lots of happiness and good health, Merry Christmas to all.

St James Anglican Church – Hoy

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:52:12 +0000

We would advise that Hoy will be held on the 6th January, 2012 and for $5.00 you will receive a lovely morning tea and a chance to win the lucky door draw of $30.00 which is to be won each month. The members of the Anglican congregation would like to thank everyone who supports their fund raisers all year and to wish each of you and your families a very joyous and safe Christmas and New Year.

Kyogle Police News

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:50:29 +0000

Welcome to the December issue of Police News. Firstly I must take this opportunity to thank Senior Constable Michael Chaffey for starting up the column again in my absence and getting me motivated to keep it going again on my return from 6 long months assisting at Casino. My style is somewhat different to Michaels’, as some of you may recall from when I previously submitted articles.It has been a busy few weeks for us at Kyogle and the work load is building steadily as the silly season fast approaches. With this in mind it is timely to remind all of you who are likely to go out and have a few drinks over the Christmas period that you have a responsibility to act in a responsible manner while in public and that drink driving is indeed a crime. During our November Court there were no less than 14 local drink drivers before the Court. Several of these drivers were on the second or third PCA appearance and a couple of the readings were near record highs. This is disgraceful for a rural area which is again reaching a very concerning level in collisions involving alcohol. This is exactly the reason we will be continuing our increase in RBT testing. We take our efforts to detect drink drivers seriously and it is mystifying to still hear people tell us when they get locked up that they are not criminals. Drink drivers injure and kill people and the results are devastating for all involved. Police have recently been given new powers to deal with persons who are intoxicated and behaving in a disorderly manner in public. These powers involve directions to move on and not be detected in public while drunk and disorderly within a specified time. There are heavy fines involved for disobeying the directions or being caught again after the direction. Police are the judge of what is drunk and disorderly based on a set of criteria and common sense from reasonable public opinion so if you are spoken to and given a direction I suggest you do as you are told. Aside from a recent tragedy things have been going very well in regard to the behaviour of punters from the licensed premises. Now is not the time to let things slip. Look out for your family and friends and don’t let them get themselves in to trouble. On a brighter note, in late November we were given early notice by a number of persons that a RAVE Party was starting up in the State Forest at Iron Pott Creek. Because of the early notification we were able to attend and close down the party before it really got going. A significant drug detection was also made and a person now faces court charged with serious drug offences. With this in mind I ask that those of you who live in areas where these events occur get on to us early when you notice the increase in cars and first hear the music booming through the valleys so we can get on to it. Do not wait until it is dark or worse until 2 in the morning as the parties are too difficult to shut down by then and we will not be in a position to commit the extra resources required to do so safely. In closing the officers at Kyogle, Woodenbong and Urbenville wish you all a happy and safe Christmas spent with your families and friends.

Sergeant Aaron Reid

TELEPHONE: 02 6632 1444 FAX: 02 6632 2491

The Wild Side of Town – with Kathryn Kermode

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:47:02 +0000

Defending My Garden

The little bird is doing a fantastic job defending my garden. When a Kookaburra lands on the top string of my climbing bean trellis the brave little Willie Wagtail is there in an instant clipping the Kookaburra on the head and calling a warning whichity-wheit, whichity-wheit. Repeatedly it hassles the larger bird which works hard to keep its balance on the swinging string while ducking the persistent attacks from the Willie Wagtail. The Kookaburra gives up on the worm it had spied and returns to its perch in the gum tree where a Bell Miner descends upon it and clips it on the head with an agitated squawk. Kookaburras like butcherbirds and currawongs will raid nests and feast on the helpless hatchings but despite their size Willie Wagtails fearlessly fight for their territory and courageously defend their nest.My house is smack bang in the middle of the Willie Wagtails territory and no matter where I am in the garden one of the pair will be watching from a nearby perch whichity-wheiting and wagging its tail. The Willy Wagtails have built their nest on a low swooping branch in the apple gum out the front, it is only just above my eye line and I can’t quite see into the soft downy cup where the eggs nestle. The birds are much larger than the nest and when the parents sit on the nest they hang over at both ends. I try not to disturb the nesting birds but they watch me when I’m out in the garden and will fly to a perch above my head where they wag and jump about, luckily for me they don’t try to clip me on the head. The Willie Wagtails sit on the top of my tomato stakes and calls whichity-wheit, marking my vegetable garden as their territory. The crows are keeping their distance and the resident turkey seems to have disappeared, I can only hope that they will defend my patch against a marauding mob of bower birds or a hungry wallaby. The bower birds descend early in the morning and hop along the length of my rock wall stealing whatever they can get their beaks on, the strawberries may be the main reason for their assault on my garden but they will take anything that is the right blue and steal the heads off my favourite flowers. I watch two bower birds obsessed with a blue plastic cap that is fixed to the end of my washing line, they try their hardest to take this perfectly coloured object but it will not come free of the line. They persevere with it for half an hour or more tugging, pulling and biting, taking it in turns to try and free the blue object. I wonder if I may have found the perfect distraction from my flower garden for them. Late at night when all the creatures of the day are slumbering I am dragged from my sleep by the sound of my little garden defender singing whichity-wheit, whichity-wheit. The call slices through the peace and quiet of the night and leaves me wide awake and wondering if my little friend ever sleeps, dawn is not even a whisper on the horizon yet. The bird sings relentlessly, over and over. I listen to the sounds of the night and imagine the little black and white bird defending my garden against a rogue bandicoot or an even an owl that may have dared to venture into my garden; the plucky little Willie Wagtail would swoop down and clip the invader on the head, dance and sing its song whichity-wheit, whichity-wheit.

Kyogle High School Year12 – 2012 induction

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:46:15 +0000

Following Welcome to Country at the Kyogle High School assembly on Thursday, 8th December, MC Janet Andrews (Deputy Principal) introduced the 53 Year 12 – 2012 students to a packed auditorium. Captains, Lachlan Crawter and Lillian Kapsidiswios, and Vice-captains Michael Stephens and Hannah Judd spoke briefly, thanking the outgoing captains for their example and leadership, and pledging to show what public education can achieve. Senior Leaders were also introduced – Rebecca O’Reilly, Nicola Fletcher, Shyarn Tryhorn, Jeremy Clark, Finn Graham and Trevor Vail. As the remaining students were introduced, their parents pinned the badges onto their shirts. Before leading the Seniors’ Oath, Year Adviser, Dave Stewart spoke of the leadership of the Seniors, reminding them that this is a great time to celebrate the occasion in recognition of their role responsibilities, and encouraging parents, teachers and the community to assist them to reach their possibilities.School Principal, Janeen Silcock said, “We have a talented, remarkable young group who will be the first group through with Senior Leaders. Their roles will exemplify leadership and modelling responsibilities of our school. Our new motto is; ‘Here to Learn. Here to Lead’ – we believe they will set the standard for others to follow.”Students Elliott Lewis-Hall and Sam Fardon played a beautiful guitar duet, Tchaikovsky’s ‘Dance of the Cygnets’, following which Year 12 students read their school pledge, before recessing from the auditorium to prolonged applause. Fay Fardon – Kyogle correspondent

Season’s Greetings from KAMS and thanks for a wonderful year!

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:45:28 +0000

The KAMS Jam at the Amphitheatre was very productive, with a circle of eight pickers, from beginners to advanced, playing songs in Irish and bluegrass traditions. Apologies to those who came looking and didn’t find us, we had settled behind the Kyogle Country Café at the Visitors Information Centre with fiddles, guitars, banjos, mandolins, bass, bodhran and even a bouzouki. A dedicated Bluegrass picking circle will commence in 2012.The Anniversary Raffle Night on 17th December from 6pm at Earth Bistro will feature an open mic for anyone who would like to perform. Prizes include fruit and meat trays, and a framed publicity photograph of Buddy Williams, the first Australian-born artist to record country music in Australia. The raffle night will help us fund a modular performance stage for use at the showground and other venues. KAMS would like to thank John Carter, Stephen McElroy and Bill Manning for their time and effort in developing the stage, which will benefit KAMS and many other community groups.KAMS is an unfunded project of Kyogle Together and our 2011 events were financed solely through ticket sales, raffles, gold coin donations and support from our local Rotary club. KAMS would like to extend grateful thanks to Rotary, the Kyogle Showground Trust, Ripples, Xpresso coffee, Tom’s Music and the Kyogle Local Reconciliation Group for helping develop KAMS events.Sound production during the year was by Brett Hamlyn, Aaron Duffy and John Howley, with Brett and Aaron mentoring our next generation of sound technicians. Special mention is due to 13 year old Kleon Toffetti, who has applied his newly acquired skills to KAMS and Village Hall Players productions, and the recent Tidy Towns Unsung Heroes Awards. Our Youth Jams and Headline Events allowed young people to become familiar with stage, sound and lighting equipment and to develop their own bands. Many thanks to Stirling Bowen and the parents of The Maples for their support, and to the Kyogle Council for the Pearl drum kit, which played a central role in these programs. Next year, young people will drive the youth events and we will proudly watch The Maples embrace future opportunities.We are so grateful to local businesses, media and churches for publicising our events and providing raffle prizes; to the outstanding performers and our magnificent volunteers; and to all those who braved the night air to come along to our shows. We have been left with warm hearts and a swag of irreplaceable memories.Following our appearance at the Christmas Eve Uniting Church Family Service, our final event will be our New Year’s Eve 2012 Countdown at the Kyogle Showground, an alcohol-free event featuring an informal concert from youth members and local artists. Admission will be $10 adults, $7 KAMS members and $5 youth. The coffee cart will be attending and a BBQ will be available.For further information on the 2012 bluegrass picking circle, to be added to our mailing list, or to perform with us at the Christmas Eve carols or New Year’s Event, please contact Kym Watling on 0409 534 233 or email kymwatling@gmail.com

St James Anglican Church Raffle winners

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:45:01 +0000

Winners of the recently run Christmas raffle for St James Anglican Church, Kyogle were: Hamper winner was Hazel Reeves and winner of the picnic basket was Joan Roberts. The fund raising committee of the Anglican church would like to thank all those who have supported them during the year and to wish them all a very safe and happy christmas and new year.

The Risk News

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:44:46 +0000

The New Years Eve dance will be held at the Risk Hall commencing from 8pm with music supplied by the “Dynamic Duo”. Various novelties and supper will be provided. Be there for a great night out.

USA bound

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:42:44 +0000

Holly Durbidge from Macdade and Family has been selected to represent Kyogle and Rotary district 9640 in Wisconsin USA in May 2012. Holly applied to attend a Rotary GSE (Group Study Exchange) selection weekend held in September at Cudgen Leagues Club. There were over 20 applicants aged from 18-40yrs old and ranging in a variety of different professions including, Police officers, accountants, lawyers, business managers and architects. Holly was nominated by the Kyogle Rotary Club for her fundraising efforts and community spirit. Out of the 20 that attended there were 4 selected to represent district 9640 in Wisconsin on a vocational exchange for 4 weeks in May 2012. Holly was lucky enough to be selected and is very excited about this new adventure. There are 3 other team members Kelly O’Hara and Dan Ford from Tenterfield and Simon Brook from the Gold Coast and the Team Leader David Bagley from Surfers Sunrise Rotary Club on the Gold Coast.“The idea of GSE is to take the Aussie culture and our skills to share with those in America and to spend time working along side those in our profession. We spend 4 weeks traveling around Wisconsin and staying with several different rotary host families attend their rotary meetings and present slide shows and power point presentations about Australia and our rotary district. I also get the chance to attend a rotary district conference in America as well as here in Australia,” Holly said.“I am the first person to represent the Kyogle Rotary Club on a GSE and am very much looking forward to this amazing opportunity. Id like to thank my boss Linda for allowing me to take time away from work to experience this and a big thank you to the Kyogle Rotary Club and their members for their nomination. I am selling raffle tickets at Macdade and Family for $1ea to help me get there if anyone would like to purchase some and I also have for auction a 2009 fully signed Country Football Shirt (it is hanging in the shops front window) please drop your bid into work and help me get to USA.”Holly Durbidge

Kyogle High School students compete in Public Speaking contest

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:41:50 +0000

At a dinner in the Kyogle Bowling Club on 15th November, seven of Kyogle’s best young public speakers performed at their Public Speaking contest before approx 60 Kyogle Lions Club members and friends. Divided into two categories, Senior and Junior, it was certainly proven that the female of the species has a distinct advantage over the males when it comes to ‘the gift of the gab’, with all contestants being girls.The appreciative audience, including Judges, Damian Cox, Sue Dummett and Louise Petherbridge, were impressed by the confidence and presentation of the speakers, and their selected topics. Winner of the Senior section was Lowana Davies, who spoke about “Moving forward Positively”, citing world leaders as prime examples, while Bronte Judd delivered a plea for us to keep Kyogle’s environment safe. Lilliana Bowen expounded on music, how great it is and its importance in our lives.Carrying off the Junior section, Liesl Pederson spoke about the use of child labour on the Ivory Coast to produce chocolate, giving a friendly little piece of advice that, if we eat chocolate that isn’t produced this way, we may do so with a guilt-free conscience. Emily Muirhead presented an entertaining speech about the benefits of laughter in our stressful community, reminding us that it doesn’t cost anything to be cheerful and give a smile to those we meet. Karlie Harris gave a very sobering talk about the many homeless people in our world, while Kirra Harrison expounded on Global Warming and the effect it has on our animals.Next year Kyogle Lions will again present a Kyogle Youth of the Year Award.Fay Fardon – Kyogle Correspondent

Bundjulahm Blurb with Patsy Nagas

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:40:32 +0000

JINGI-WULLU (Greetings)
Renovations have been taking place at the local Land Council offices – Gudgin Guddaba on Ettrick Street. There will be a new conference room and kitchen available for hire within the next few months. These facilities can be used for youth activities, courses, conferences and meetings, go down and have a look. Give Ron Randall, CEO of the Land Council a call on 6632 1056.Under the close eye and encouragement of Kym Watling, young Kleon Toffetti has been learning to play musical instruments and mix sound with the Kyogle Acoustic Musical Society. He is making our community very proud and we would like to see him further his career in music.After three months in and out of hospital I am taking a well-deserved break and going up to Bundaberg to see my grandchildren. Then back home dialyzing and then up to Stradbroke Island for a week. I will be home for Christmas in Kyogle and my eldest boy Gabe and his family are coming home from Tamworth on Boxing Day for two weeks. Gabe is joining the police force in February. I am very proud of my son.I wish everybody in the community a wonderful Christmas and all the best for the New Year.Until next month –
YUMBA-LERE (Leaving for Now) BUNDJULAHM

D.I.R.T.’s Unbreakable a smash!

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:39:46 +0000

On Sunday 27th November the students of D.I.R.T. (Drama In a Rural Town), the youth drama program run by the Village Hall Players, performed their self-devised production of Unbreakable to an appreciative audience of family, friends and local residents. Licette Hook, mother of one of the D.I.R.T. students, said, “I really enjoyed it. It felt so real. And it was wonderful to see this work that came from our children. They’re so talented.” Joelle Foy, drama teacher and artistic director of the D.I.R.T. program said she was inspired by the quality of the material the students created that was moving, funny, original and clever. “It was a testament to the success of the program which teaches valuable skills in teamwork and performance and is deeply embedded with opportunities for the students to build confidence and self-esteem. This was evidenced by the transformation of the students from week one to the final performance,” Ms Foy said.Paul Worsnop, who, as Village Hall Players Professional Actor in Residence works with Ms Foy, said, “As an instructor and advisor with the D.I.R.T. students I’m so impressed with their willingness to engage and explore self-expression and improvisation. They have come a long way in little more than four months and I’m sure that we are instilling confidence in these children and certainly the foundation for the making of some promising young actors.”D.I.R.T. is an ongoing program for children from 8 to 16 years at time of admission and will commence its 2012 program on 2nd February. Ms Foy said, “I am very excited about the future of D.I.R.T. and the 2012 season that will see the students create original work in a series of comedy styles. Stay tuned …”

NYE concert at Lillifield Community Centre

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:39:01 +0000

The worldwide growth of ‘World Music’ in the last two decades is testament to the power of music to cross cultural divides.Australia has a strong history of collaboration between Indigenous and white musicians, and in this spirit, GURIGURU has forged their own path with a new and different way to bridge the gap between cultures with music, and what better path to reconciliation can there be than one that is shared in celebration?Gary Kafoa is a proud indigenous man from the rich cultural melting-pot of the Tweed River. Born and bred by the river he spent 30 years as a professional fisherman, and also has a long history as a local musician. Using a mixture of traditional and modern instrumentation, Gary sings of what was passed down to him by his father and other elders and contemporary issues that affect us all today. Trying to step outside traditional rock song structures has meant mixing didgeridoo with modern dance beats and his own funk percussion techniques. The result is a new dimension in storytelling born in the unique musical culture of the NSW North Coast.Dr Greg is a veteran of over 40 years on bass with bands of every hue from deep funk to space-rock, and his lifelong interest in ethnic musical forms means he can supply unique groove assistance to the project.Together, they areGURIGURU Joining them for this special NYE concert at Lillifield Community Centre will be local percussionist Gery Mews and guitarist Nick Gruen, who will add even more groove to the mix. Bring your dancing shoes, from 7pm $10 entrance.Lillifield Community Centre, 4505 Kyogle Rd, next to Barkers Vale School.

Janelle Saffin’s Column

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:38:29 +0000

The Kyogle region has been through its share of devastating floods, and every time there are disputes about what is covered by insurance policies.I’m pleased to report the Australian Government is making progress in its efforts to make flood insurance simpler and more effective. Last month the Government announced its response to the Natural Disaster Insurance Review, which was commissioned to examine insurance for flood and other natural disasters following the summer floods of 2010 and 2011.The Assistant Treasurer, Bill Shorten, has now released draft regulations including a proposed standard definition of “flood” for insurance contracts of home building and home contents (combined and individual policies); small business; and strata title insurance policies. The proposed definition is:Flood means the covering of normally dry land by water that has escaped or been released from the normal confines of: A. any lake, or any river, creek or other natural watercourse, whether or not altered or modified; orB. any reservoir, canal, or dam.Mr Shorten says people are entitled to know exactly what is, and what is not, covered under their insurance policies.In the past, too many of those affected by floods have been unaware that their insurance policy didn’t cover flood.I would like to see a system where all insurance policies must offer flood cover for the home and contents, unless the customer specifically decides to ‘opt out’ of flood cover. I also don’t want them to raise the prices though, so flood insurance is not affordableIn an encouraging development, CGU Insurance to extend flood coverage based on these regulations, to all home, contents and landlord policies nationally. I’d like to see the other insurers follow CGU’s lead.The release of the draft regulations is an important step in ensuring people can make informed decisions about the level of flood cover they need.And there is an opportunity to have your say on this.The Government is seeking comments on the definition of “flood” proposed in the regulations along with other aspects, including the definition of ‘strata title residence’ and the test to determine whether a business is a small business for these purposes. The draft regulations can be found on the Treasury website www.treasury.gov.au The deadline for submissions is 3 February 2012.

CSG Information Evening at Wadeville

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:37:57 +0000

When: Thursday 15th December 2011Where: Annie’s Garden Cafe, 4460 Kyogle Road Wadeville Time: Arrive before 6pm for a ‘get-to-know-your-neighbour’. Refreshments will be available during the evening.Aim: To provide the community factual information regarding Coal Seam GasPresenters: Scientific: What is coal seam gas and how it will affect your landEnvironmental Scientists – Dr David Sharpe BAppSci (Hons), PhDDeborah Sharpe Dip. Hort., BAppSci (Hons), PhD candidate; Legislation: Land Owner’s Rights and the Petroleum ACT; Sue Higginson – Senior Solicitor, EDO Lismore NSW.For further information phone 6633 7383 or email: admin@nrage.org – Want to check the location? Phone: 6689 7369 Web: http://anniesgardencafe.com/

SES news

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:37:34 +0000

SES fundraising committee would like to thank every one for their wonderful support this year. We managed to raise a bit over $3,600-00 and this all goes to our local unit. Coming into the storm season a few extra dollars always helps, we sure don’t need any disasters in or around Kyogle. Our last meeting and Christmas lunch was held at the Bottom Pub and it was a good day. The meal was very yum and the Christmas pudding, well it was absolutely scrumptious. I’ll be back. Our last raffle for the year has been run and won. First prize, the $100-00 Macdade and Family voucher went to a very excited Helen Sawtell, she said she will get something nice for herself, 2nd prize has been won by Karyn Grove and I am sure she will enjoy all the goodies in the basket of products from Bamboo Wholesalers, 3rd prize went to D. Daley who couldn’t believe she had won the $30-00 meat voucher from Stuarts Butchery, that will help out for the Christmas ham, 4th prize was won by a very shocked ME, yes, Brenda won the $25-00 IGA voucher, and a very ecstatic Amanda O’Reilly won the breakfast setting, she says she has never won anything before so now her luck has changed. Congratulations to everyone. Thanks so much to everyone that has donated all or part of prizes through the year, to anyone that has helped us in any way at all. A special thank you to my ticket sellers, a great effort by everyone. Hope to see you all in 2012 May everyone have a very merry Christmas and a prosperous and healthy and happy new year. Brenda Cameron

Burlesque bootscoot raises roof of Seniors Centre

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:36:41 +0000

The Kyogle Country Line Dancers raised the roof of the Kyogle Seniors Centre with their recent burlesque bootscooting performance.The dancers, bedecked in a mix of western boots, checked shirts, and fishnets, were helping celebrate the end of the Super Seniors Health Challenge for 2011.Part of the Active Kyogle project, this year’s Seniors Challenge saw 328 people join up, more than double last year.The Kyogle Country Line Dancers performed to Christine Aguilera’s ‘But I’m a good girl’ from the movie Burlesque. Not to be outdone, volunteers from the Border Ranges Day Club gave a demonstration of the ‘Kettle exercises’ – strength and balance exercises that can be done while making a cuppa – to the classic music ‘The Stripper’.The Border Ranges upped the ante with feather boas, and one volunteer wearing elbow-length gloves, which she removed with her teeth.The day also featured an ‘open microphone’ where members of the 100-plus audience spoke about the improvements they had been making to their health and fitness. Some spoke about changes they noticed during the month-long health challenge, while others spoke about changes they had noticed after continuing the exercises since last year’s challenge.Many attendees also spoke about the role of the recently-opened community gym in helping improve health and fitness, assist with weight loss, and improve balance, with one speaker saying it had given them ‘a new lease of life’.The day featured the draw of the main prizes for Challenge participants: a weekend at Toonumbar Waters Retreat (won by Heather Nutt), a food hamper from Iron Pot Foods (Jan Buckman), and a gift voucher from Plum Vintage (Melita Luck).Active Kyogle is managed by Kyogle Together in partnership with the Northern NSW Local Health District. Funding is provided by the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing under the Rural Primary Health Services program. For more information about Active Kyogle, visit www.activekyogle.org.au

The story of Christmas in word and song

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:35:10 +0000

As has been happening in Lismore for 30 + years, and in the best tradition of King’s College Cambridge, St Andrew’s Choir will join with St Carthage’s Choir in performances of Nine Lessons and Carols. This year in Lismore it is the turn of St Carthage’s Cathedral to host the event. The original service of Nine Lessons and Carols derives from a service which the clergyman E W Benson first gave in a wooden hut in Cornwall, UK, on Christmas Eve, 1880. Benson went on to become Archbishop of Canterbury and the service went on to become one of the most widely popular services in the Christian calendar, thanks to its being revamped by, and broadcast annually from, Kings College, Cambridge.Locally the music is selected and the choirs prepared by organist and musical director of both Lismore churches, Warren Whitney. The service always commences with solo soprano singing Once in Royal David’s City before being joined by the choir and then the congregation. Hymn singing, familiar and unfamiliar Christmas music are all presented between the nine short Bible readings celebrating the birth of Jesus.Sunday, 18 December 2011, 7.30pm, St Carthage’s Cathedral, LismoreTuesday, 20 December 2011, 7.30pm, St Martin’s Anglican Church, Mullumbimby Thursday 22, December 2011, 7.30pm, St Mary’s Anglican Church, BallinaThis is delightful, relaxing way to unwind in the hectic rush Christmas can become. Non-denominational. Free Admission. All welcome, enquiries 0429 185 361.

Billy Thorpe’s original Aztecs release new album

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:34:35 +0000

Billy Thorpe’s original Aztecs have just released a new album which was recorded at The Pump Room Studios in Kyogle and features Sabbaths lead singer from the 70′s, Harry Young.The Album titled “At the End Of The Rainbow” by Harry Young and The Original Aztecs is dedicated to the memory of Billy Thorpe AM and includes reworked versions of the Aztecs big hits including “Somewhere Over The Rainbow”, “Sick and Tired” and “Poison Ivy” to name a few.Their first big hit “Blue Day” is also on the album featuring special guest artist Tommy Emmanuel. “Tommy was fantastic and jumped at the opportunity to play on the album, recording all his parts in Nashville and sending them to us,” said Harry.The 19 track album includes a dedication to Billy Thorpe, 6 new original songs and a never commercially released track, penned by Billy Thorpe and Tony Barber titled “Sunshine Friends”.”The boys in the band have fallen in love with Kyogle,” said original drummer Col Baigent,” and we will be getting together at Toms Music Shop early in the new year to sign the album and meet you all.”The album is now available at Tom’s Music Shop, Kyogle.

Kyogle Community Garden to be ‘Permablitzed’

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:32:34 +0000

The Kyogle Community Garden is set for a ‘Permablitz’- style makeover next Saturday, 17 December.‘A Permablitz is like a Permaculture version of a ‘Backyard Blitz’, said Kyogle Together’s Mark Trudinger.Saturday’s Permablitz will feature a range of activities, including planting a living ‘weed barrier’ along fencelines, making an edible hedge, learning proper sheet-mulching techniques, and preparing compost.‘It’s a great way to get lots of people involved in a garden, who all share their skills and knowledge, learn some new skills, and get a lot done in one go.’The edible hedge will feature seven varieties of exotic tropical fruit trees which all grow to a manageable hedge size – including jaboticabas, Acerolla cherries, grumichamas, miracle fruits, and Quaker’s Hill cherries.‘Planting an edible hedge is a great way to grow a lot of fruit in a small area, as well as provide a visual screen for privacy, and attract birds to your garden. It’s also a wonderful way to share fruit with your neighbours, as they can just “graze” different varieties of fruit along the fenceline’, said Mark.‘Learning how to plant a living weed barrier is helpful if you want to stop neighbours’ grass growing into your yard – or stop your own vigorous groundcovers, such as sweet potato, making unwanted visits next door.’The Permablitz will start at 7.30am and run until midday, and will be followed by a shared lunch to celebrate both the achievements of the day, as well as the end of the year.To RSVP, or for more information, contact Kyogle Together on (02) 6632 1833.

Quota happenings

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:20:01 +0000

“Our House”

We are a small club, but we have big hearts.On Wednesday 16th November, we had lunch with Rebekka Battista, Anna and Ron Marriott.At our Friendship Dinner in July 2011 Rhonda Watts’ brother Ron Marriott from Lismore donated $300 to us. We put in $700 to make up to $1,000.We donated the $1,000 to “Our House” project which is opposite the “Oncology Unit” at the Lismore Base Hospital.”Our House” is to provide accommodation for children, adults and their families whilst receiving their radiotherapy and chemotherapy at Lismore Base Hospital.Also to provide accommodation for parents and families who have children and babies in Lismore Base Hospital Children’s Ward and Special Care Nursery who are receiving care.”Our House” will consist of 20 units in a motel style accommodation.We of Quota Club of Kyogle are very passionate about fund raising for this project as some of the Kyogle community have their treatment in the Lismore Base Hospital.

Thank You from Kyogle Tidy Towns Committee

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:16:40 +0000

Kyogle Tidy Towns Committee wishes to thank all the local producers who have provided the products for our Promotion Hampers. The purpose of these hampers was to get the message out into the community regarding the range of local products available at your local Farmers’ Market and produced locally. By you purchasing from the Markets you are reducing your food miles thus protecting the environment.Suppliers you will be pleased to know that your products are being used in houses throughout the state, in Queensland and Tasmania. It is anticipated that in excess of 100 hampers will be sold by the end of the promotion, so a big thank you to the suppliers and the public for their support.Regular Market shoppersTrading during the Holidays – The Farmers’ Market will trade on Saturday 24th December 8am-12pm and on 31st December – New Years Eve 8am-12pm. Please note there will be no Craft Market during January. Not all stallholders will be trading so I advise you to be early.Finally the Tidy Towns Committee wishes all a Very Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year. 2012 is going to be very busy with the town (community) being judged in February for the National Keep Australia Beautiful Award. Kyogle already has the State Award for 2012, if we won the National it would really be a feather in our cap.

Sunshine Club Christmas lunch

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:07:42 +0000

The Kyogle Bowling Club was the venue for our Christmas lunch on Saturday 3rd December. A good time was had by all and the meal was pretty good as well. Thanks to the kitchen staff and the guys that done the serving, you two done a great job. Rose Osborne and Merle Walters cut the cake and what a cake it was. Helen Wright, you sure know what to do with the ingredients once you have put them in the bowl. Yummo!! On behalf of the Sunshine Club members I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a safe and healthy New Year. If in 2012 you are looking for entertainment then come along and join us, we will be back on 5th February, 9 to 10am start in the supper room of the Memorial Hall. See you there.

Merle Walters and Rose Osborne on the right cutting the cake.

Village Hall Players Call to Audition

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:05:02 +0000

The Outback Debutante Ball by Judith Prior will be one of the productions in the Village Hall Players’ 2012 season.Synopsis: The committee of the local village hall plans to impress a visiting member of parliament by demonstrating that its hall is mainly used for arts and cultural events, in order to apply for more arts funding to help repair the old building. Line dancers have to be convinced to join the Debutantes and Jackeroos have to be convinced to partner them. A director from the city arrives to teach the debutantes the minuet. Of course, things never go as planned. Murphy’s Law of the Outback applies and everything goes wrong… with hilarious consequences.Cast Required:6 females – ages 16 to 25 – 3 for the Debutantes, 3 for the Line Dancers3 females – ages 35 to 60 – Committee members1 male/female – age over 30, needs refined/posh voice for Arts Director3 males – ages 16 to 30 – 2 for jackaroos, 1 for town layabout1 male/female – age over 45 for the Mayor (small role only)Ages stated above are given as a guide only. Audition Location, Date and Time:Auditions will be held at Grove House, Geneva Street, Kyogle on Sunday 18th December from 2pm.These auditions are open to everyone and will involve readings from the script. Auditionees will be assigned scenes from the play and given a short time to rehearse.Minors must be accompanied by a parent/carer.Village Hall Players is an amateur touring theatre company and all roles/positions with the company are on a volunteer basis.For further information please contact Lynette Zito on 0429 922 169.

Village Hall Players brings broadway to Woodenbong

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 00:58:25 +0000

Broadway and Vaudeville both came to Woodenbong on Friday night 2 December when the Village Hall Players (VHP) performed Dinner for One by Lauri Wylie, and a selection of numbers from Broadway musicals. Originally a Vaudeville skit, the VHP production of Dinner for One was true to its slapstick roots. Lynette Zito again played Miss Sophie, the lady of the manor who is celebrating her 90th birthday, while Paul Worsnop made his debut performance in the role of James, the butler. Ms Zito describes Miss Sophie’s role as that of a talking prop. “The play is built around James. It’s his duty to serve Miss Sophie’s birthday dinner while taking on the roles of her various guests to make and drink the toasts to Miss Sophie. The mix of serving plates, alcohol and a tiger skin rug make for a very, very funny 25 minutes of theatre,” Ms Zito said.In a new direction for the Players, the audience was entertained in the second Act of the evening by well-known songs from Broadway. With singers Odette Nettleton, Jenny Strever, Linda Hampton, Danny Hampton, Paul Worsnop and Lynette Zito, the repertoire included numbers from Hello, Dolly!, Chicago, Oklahoma, Funny Girl, South Pacific, My Fair Lady and Oliver! The finale was “We Need A Little Christmas” from Mame. Organiser, Jenny Moody, said, “The night was a great success. Everyone loved it”.While continuing with its play reading group, the Village Hall Players continues as a performance troupe and has added a youth drama group, D.I.R.T. (Drama In a Rural Town), and now a musical group in 2011. Ms Zito said that the D.I.R.T. program has been very successful and that was evidenced by Kleon Toffetti, a member of D.I.R.T. who at 13 was handling the sound and lighting for the show with the ease of a professional. Kleon had attended a sound workshop and regularly volunteered to do sound with KAMS (Kyogle Acoustic Music Society). He was now learning about lighting and sound from a theatre perspective and proved himself up to the job. “Kleon is an example of the marvellous young people we have in our area. He is keen to learn and works very hard in D.I.R.T. classes, on stage and behind the stage. I can’t praise him highly enough and I’m glad his lovely mother, Julie, was kind enough to allow him to accompany us tonight.”The VHP 2012 season will see new productions at eight village halls in the Kyogle district from March to October. It looks to be a bumper year for live theatre in the district.

Kleon Toffetti manning the sound and lighting desk

L-R: Linda Hampton, Danny Hampton, Odette Nettleton, Jenny Strever, Paul Worsnop, Lynette Zito

Kyogle Mens Golf

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 00:49:56 +0000

26/11/11

The winner of the Hackers Stick 4BBB competition sponsored by the Thursday Hackers were S Beaumont and D Hogg with 47 points followed by V Worth & J Grove on 45 points. The best individual score went to J Firth. The ball comp winners had to have 39 points or better. Nearest the pins were won by 1/10 R Lyons 2/11 P Greenhalgand 4th D Farrell 5/14 D Hogg 9/18 W Mills 13th D McInnes and the veterans ball was won by D Hogg.

Kyogle Mixed Golf

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 00:49:33 +0000

27/11/11

The club Patrons J Hurley, R Crotty, T Perrin and R Mortimer sponsored the closing day event and the winners were R Hamilton and J Davie, followed by C and J Huxley. The best front nine was won by Y and K O’Reilly and the best back nine was won by J and R Williams. The best mens net score was returned J Coster and the best women’s net score by V Lloyd.

Kyogle Mens Golf

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 00:49:04 +0000

10/12/11

The American Foursomes Medley event played on Saturday was won by W Mills & N Anderson with 66 7/8 followed by M Walters & D Walters with 69. All teams scoring better than 73 3/8 won in the ball comp. Nearest the Pins went to L Ivanusa 1/10 & 5/14 R Lyons 2/11 & 13 M Walters 4th W Mills 9/18. The Turkeys nest was R Lyons at 26cm on the 2nd. All players will need to re-nominate for the Aussies V Ethnic rescheduled for Thursday Dec 15. Next Saturday is the annual Captain V President dual and it is advised to register early for this event as it is a popular contest.

Kyogle Social Golf Club Results

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 00:48:39 +0000

4/12/11

A GRADE: winner; A. Nicholson; Runner Up, D. McInnes; NTP, R. Walters. B GRADE winner; R. Worth; Runner Up, C. Kennedy; NTP, G. Capps. C GRADE winner; G. Triggell; Runner Up, M. Shivers; NTP, G. Walsh. Putting, S. Beaumont. The next outing December 18th – Kyogle – AGM 7.00am. For further enquiries phone Butch Rogers on 6632 1603 or visit:http://kyoglegolf.tripod.com/

Kyogle Veterans Golf

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 00:48:13 +0000

1/12/11

Morning players had the better of the conditions on Thursday. Showers developed about 11.30am causing some difficulty to the afternoon golfers. Dumpy Hogg continued his recent good form to win the day with 38 points. Wayne Mills the Runner-up with 37. Balls were won by Peter Greenhalgh, Bob Hamilton, Steve Beaumont and Asron Studd, all 36 points followed by Bruce Wilson. Barry Little and Warwick Prentice on 35, with Tony Perrin winning the final ball with 33 on countback from John Grove. Ntps – Barry Little 1/10 & 5/14; Bruce Wilson 2/11. Veterans are reminded annual subscriptions are overdue.

Kyogle Rugby League

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 00:47:39 +0000

The end of 2011 is drawing near and Santa is around the corner, the Turkeys would like to thank everybody who has supported and sponsored us through the season we look forward to seeing you all in 2012. On 3rd Dec the Turkeys held a Christmas party at Newpark and had a fair turnout even Santa himself showed up and handed out presents to all the kids. It was a great day out for everybody the kids enjoyed the slip n slide and the jumping castle while the adults enjoyed the cricket on the new projector and a few cold ones then partied into the night with local DJ Andizzy. Thank you to everyone that showed up and we hope you all had a great night!The Turkeys will start training on 10th January all players and anyone who would like to play are encouraged to come alone. We have had some new signings this year and a return of many of the local lads we all know and love. For any more information check out our kyogle rugby league Facebook page.

Kyogle Endurance Riders (KCER)

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 00:45:51 +0000

On 29th and 30th October the KCER held their first inaugural Endurance event at the Wiangaree Showgrounds. The small village of Wiangaree came to life with 108 horses starting across all events. The ride was run very successfully by the ride organisers. Due to the weather conditions the course was made more challenging for both horse and rider. The events started at 2.30pm and the last riders crossed the finish line at 12.45am. It was such a sight to see the headlamps of riders and to hear the hooves of horses along the road.KCER would like to thank all the vets, TPR’s, Wiangaree Campdraft grounds, volunteers, landholders, Kyogle Rotary and sponsors who allowed us to have such a great event.We will be holding another event next year on 4th and 5th August.We would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

CSG under the spotlight

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 00:43:54 +0000

The last fortnight has been a busy one for anti-CSG group GAG Kyogle. They joined with others from across the region to travel to Brisbane to protest outside the AGM of LNG Ltd. This company is the largest shareholder in Metgasco and has plans to source gas from the Northern Rivers for its proposed Gladstone LNG plant. “The board and shareholders of LNG need to be aware that we are not prepared to stand by and let our beautiful district be destroyed so that they can make a quick buck from export gas,” said Leah Hobbs, President of Kyogle Group Against Gas. “Just a few weeks ago Rock Valley residents were prepared to blockade to stop seismic testing for CSG,” said Mrs Hobbs. “It is clear that Metgasco are going to be met with opposition every step of the way as they try to explore for gas in the Northern Rivers- I think that relying on gas from our region is a very risky proposition”Last week GAG members were part of a group gathering in Lismore outside a closed door CSG industry stakeholders meeting, organised by State MP Thomas George. ”Whilst some anti-gas reps. were invited,” said Mrs Hobbs, “the protest aimed to highlight the fact that invitation only meetings do not constitute community consultation and that the community deserves to have their concerns addressed in an open forum with government and industry.”“We have been inviting Mr George and company reps. for the past eight months to come out to Kyogle to hear the concerns of farmers in this area but they have continually refused to meet with the community,” Mrs Hobbs said. “We are calling on Mr George to meet publically with residents from across the region and to make clear what his position is on the expansion of the CSG industry in the Northern Rivers,” Mrs Hobbs said.The concerns of local residents in relation to CSG were vindicated recently by the findings of the Senate Inquiry into the impacts of CSG on the Murray-Darling Basin. “The recently released interim report of the Senate Inquiry called for a moratorium on new CSG developments in areas of the Murray Darling Basin overlying the Great Artesian Basin and highlighted a range of issues with the industry,” said GAG spokesperson Boudicca Cerese. “ These included the impacts on ground and surface water resources, the problems with disposal of wastewater and the lack of landholder rights.”“The report also called for further studies to be done before new approvals are granted for CSG exploration and production,” said Ms Cerese, “calling specifically for a ‘regional-scale, muti-state and multi-layer model of the cumulative effects of multiple developments on ground and surface waters.’”Boudicca Cerese

Wiangaree Red Cross

NRTT Editor — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 00:43:02 +0000

After the recent monthly meeting at the hall, the members enjoyed a Christmas lunch together at Wiangaree Store. Our thanks to Trish and Bruce Wilson for their great support to Red Cross again this year.The members have decided to organise a Euchre night at the Wiangaree hall in January 2012. It will be held on Saturday 21st January commencing at 7-30pm and we will be delighted to welcome all card players. A light supper will be served after the game. Hope to see you there.