Bellingen Shire News

g Bellingen NEWS SHIRE Serving Urunga, Repton, Raleigh, Mylestom, Fernmount, Bellingen, Valery, Gleniff er,  ora, Dorrigo WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2022 $2 AT NEWSAGENTS EDITION 19 Shaping the Shire’s Golden Years By ADAM NORRIS lthough many of us Aentertain the secret belief that old age happens to other people and that were actually going to live forever, the inevitable truth is that as the years roll by, theyre taking us with them. Australia has a rapidly ageing population. Th e Centre of Excellence in Population Ageing Research connects this to increased life expectancy and declining fertility rates, and in NSW alone it is estimated that in less than a decade one in four people will be aged over sixty. Th e Bellingen Shire is already home to an above-average number of senior residents, and to support the individual needs and community engagement of our older family, friends and neighbours, Council is encouraging those who are over 65 years old (or over 55 years for Indigenous people) to help develop the Ageing Well Strategy 2022 – 2025. “People are living longer, and a key challenge not just for our Shire, but globally, is how we respond to support our older population,” said Mayor Steve Allan. “As people are living longer, By contributing to the survey, residents may help determine the trajectory of aged-care initiatives and community activities across the Shire the goal isnt to add years to A community survey is now to better suit a regional area, It incorporates concerns entire community as a whole as to the NSW Treasurys 2021-22 our life, but life to our years. available online, and at physical and allows for comprehensive such as mobility, housing well.” Intergenerational Report, in the To remain active, engaged, and locations throughout the Shire feedback regarding quality of security, health, and access and Carers and professionals who decades to come life expectancy to have a voice. So Council is including the three libraries, life, fi nancial circumstances, participation to social activities. may be involved in senior care is set to rise from 85.9 to 91.7 currently preparing our Ageing Neighbourhood Centres, leisure, and safety for our senior “In my professional life at are also being welcomed to share for women, and from 82.2 to Well strategy and we need to Hickory House Senior Support citizens. the pharmacy, Ive witnessed their input and insights to the 89.4 for men. hear from you. Service, and from the Dorrigo By contributing to the survey, fi rsthand how important document. To complete the survey online, Th is strategy will set Councils Plateau Aboriginal Land residents may help determine it is to remain active and So while the chances of living please visit www.bellingen.nsw. priorities over the next four years, Council. the trajectory of aged-care engaged socially,” Mayor Allan forever remain remote, there gov.au/Have-Your-Say/Ageing- to support our older residents to It includes insights from the initiatives and community continued. is still some good news there Well-Strategy-Consultation. remain healthy, active, and stay World Health Organisations activities across the Shire for “And thats not just for your for those of us who steadfastly Submissions close at socially connected.” Liveable Cities Audit, tailored years to come. own benefi t. It benefi ts the refuse to grow up – according 5.00pm on August 21st. Discount Bulk Foods      Organic Groceries , - !!".)+-(!&  (./-  (0!!1- !!".0% %2./ - Local Produce    3++%! !-'"  Working hard to  , !!1- !!" ! % .4  - "+   3 -'  )   keep good food    5 % 6! -% $7%&!-'"!   affordable for all     !   3 % 89%8877! !:    since 2004 "   #   !5 % 6! )&"0 8; ! 1 Church Street, Bellingen NSW 2454    !!"#$ %&  '"# (  !)!!"*%+ kombuwholefoods.com.au | 02 6655 9299

PAGE 2 – BELLINGEN SHIRE NEWS WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2022 g Bellingen Welcome to play-time post-Covid-19 NEWS SHIRE HOW TO CONTACT US For stories, news and letters, email our content manager at editor@ bellingenshirenews.com.au For advertising and sales inquiries email Brad McCosker at sales@ bellingenshirenews.com.au or 0411 717 555. DEADLINES(all prior to the next publication) • Advertising - Noon Wednesday • Editorial - 5pm Wednesday By ADAM NORRIS parents, and to the community morning tea for the fi rst time and hall at St Margarets • Sport - 9am Monday or more than a decade the in general. since before Covid, so that was Church. • Letters - 5pm Wednesday FBellingen Community “But weve been welcoming exciting. “Th eres a lot of free play,” Playgroup has been bringing new families, when weve “Lots of people, and it was a Lisa said. “We have a great CIRCULATION AND DELIVERY young children together to been able, throughout Covid. nice vibe, and the weather was collsection of toys and things, 3500 copies are distributed as follows: socialise, make friends, and Probably weekly well welcome amazing. and the swings and slippery- hopefully not have someone someone who is new to town. “So at this stage, were trying dip are always popular. But we Bellingen town x 1500 home delivered. throw your favourite Ewok toy Its a great starting point for to raise awareness. also have the sandpit, we have Bundle drops at IGA Bellingen, KOMBU down a nearby storm-water people.” “Th ere used to be another Play-dough, bikes and all sorts Wholefoods and the Providore, North drain – though maybe that was While the Playgroup has playgroup on Tuesdays before of things. specifi c to me. successfully navigated the Covid, and today, we had “Its a great way for kids and Bellingen, Fernmount Fire Station 50, Thora Yet it isnt just children ongoing hurdles of meeting someone who saw our Facebook adults to connect. Its been great Store 100. who benefi t from attending during the pandemic, a legacy post who said, its so good to for my son, hes been going for Urunga and the seaboard receives 1200 Playgroup. As coordinator of widespread lockdowns has see another playgroup start up so long now hes used to playing copies at various drop off locations from Lisa Cross explained, parents seen a decline in the number of now! And I was like, but we with lots of kids from diff erent and caregivers themselves – regular visitors. were always here! age groups, so its great for their Mylestom Store, North Beach Bowling Club, particularly recent arrivals Lisa suspects that many parents “So we need to basically socialisation.” Urunga Golf and Bowling Club and in Urunga to town – also benefi t simply became accustomed to raise awareness and visibility. Bellingen Playgroup will be CBD at Spar and Foodworks supermarkets, tremendously. having to organise their own Th ats what wed like, and hosting a stall at the front of the “I started going when my son entertainment and one-on-one once people start coming a bit Bellingen IGA on August 13th, Hickeys Shell Garage as well as BP and the was three months old,” Lisa said. playdates, or have forgotten that more regularly, we can talk to and Lisa encourages anyone Stihl Shop on the Pacific Highway. “I was relatively new to the the Bellingen Playgroup exists them about maybe coming in interested to come along and Copies are available in Dorrigo at Spar and area, and the friends I had here in the fi rst place. for a more active role on the introduce themselves to the all had much older kids. “Our Open Day went really committee.” team. IGA supermarkets as well as Pam’s Fruit and “I didnt know many people well. People saw our posters on Each playgroup requires a You can also learn more about Veggies. with younger kids, so that Facebook, so we had quite a few $3 attendance fee, which goes specifi c playgroup dates by was my connection to other new people, and we had a shared towards renting the playground visiting their Facebook page. Online shopping OPEN MON TO SAT 7AM - 7PM is now available! FREE HOME DELIVERY * Conditions apply Head to bellingeniga.com.au and 71 Hyde St Bellingen follow the links to our online store. Ph 6655 9500 Choose from free home delivery* or click and collect. *Free home delivery only available to within 5km of town. Minimum order amount $50.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2022 BELLINGEN SHIRE NEWS – PAGE 3 Byron Writers Festival descends on Dorrigo By ADAM NORRIS Th e 2022 Writers on the Road actual life. aturday August 20th will see tour launches in Dorrigo before “Not a lot was from actual Sa wordsmith wagon roll into moving on to other locations direct, my-life observations,” Dorrigo, as the Byron Writers throughout Northern NSW. Jane explained. Festival arrives in town with its It will take the authors through “You almost cant have lived Writers on the Road program. a number of towns who have it in order to write about it. At Th e much-loved touring faced rough circumstances in least as a novel, rather than a series welcomes a selection of recent years, and Jane believes it memoir, or something where writers into regional areas to will be a rewarding experience to youre actually telling the story discuss their life and works, spend time in places that might of your own enormous diffi culty. with a seriously impressive line- not normally have great access “If youre going to write it form up dropping by the Dorrigo to literary events. imagination, you almost have to Library to share their stories. “I think thats exactly right. be someone standing a little bit Literature lovers may recognise It feels like its going to be back from it, so you can turn some familiar faces from recent wonderful to actually be able it into a tale. You have to have Bellingen Readers & Writers to visit and talk to people about that level of distance, empathic, Festivals, with award-winners something thats removed from compassionate, engaged and Jane Caro and Mirandi Riwoe their day-to-day life. involved distance. joining acclaimed novelist Nigel “Which doesnt mean that “So it is of course a benefi ciary Featherstone and Australian writing novels, or slam poetry of the years of work that Ive Poetry Slam champion Huda isnt about reality. But [I also] done in that area, but it also is Fadlelmawla. think literature is about escaping entirely imagined, and I think in Walkley Award winning your own reality for a while, and a way its really important that I journalist, social commentator inhabiting somebody elses. did. and novelist Jane Caro will be “I think thats why people “I would have felt very uneasy Jane Caro discussing her fi rst adult release, love it, and why it can off er a and uncomfortable about using Th e Mother, and cant wait to get particular comfort when things someones real life story as the because I thought I want this “I remember years ago I totally diff erent thing. the show on the road. are really hard.” basis of a novel. Id just feel that book to be useful to someone worked on the NSW Police “I think fi ction can be a “Its fantastic! Im very Th at sense of escapism is in a way youre appropriating who could read it and say, hang account, and we were asked wonderful way of making us delighted to be part of it, especially notable given the somebodys suff ering.” on – thats happening to me, to design a campaign about think more broadly about the or to my sister, or didnt my domestic violence, telling and really looking forward to nature of Janes novel. While the novel is certainly a world than we would otherwise travelling around, talking to lots Th e Mother is a domestic gripping, immersive read, Jane brother-in-law say something women to call the police. do.” of people interested in books thriller that explores the real- hopes that it achieves something like that? “We did a little brochure, and Writers on the Road will and writing, but also getting to world horrors of domestic somewhat more subversive. “Just so women get that fl ag we deliberately designed it so launch at the Dorrigo Library know my fellow authors,” she abuse and coercive control – a “If you have someone whos that this isnt normal, reasonable it was really small and women on August 20th at 5.30pm. said. landscape that Jane knows all living in domestic violence, or and natural behaviour, and is could hide it. Not a big brochure It is a free event, although “It feels a bit like a school trip! too well through her many years have done in the past, to read something they need to keep that might get seen, because we bookings are essential. Which is not something that of advocacy, research and social about it once removed is also a their eye on. were aware if an abusive partner authors, who are used to sitting commentary. Yet she is emphatic little way of escaping, even if you “An abusive husband would be sees something like that, that For tickets and more there and scribbling away on in explaining that while the cant actually escape yet. very angry if he saw you reading could be the trigger for a horrible information, visit their own, get much of a chance story refl ects real situations, “I also wrote it with careful Jess Hills brilliant See What You incident. Somebody reading byronwritersfestival.com/wotr to do.” she has not based it on anyones consideration of the red fl ags, Made Me Do,” Jane continued. a novel called Th e Mother is a Michael Paxton Ceremonies PP O S T -- FF L O O DD W E E DD A L E R T Civil Celebrant CHECK YOUR DAMS Based in Bellingen FOR NEW WEEDS Call Michael on 0432-052256 Weddings … small or large, Funerals, Renewal of Vows, Commitment and Baby Naming Ceremonies [email protected] www.michaelpaxtonceremonies.com.au BAREFOOT FUNERALS – Leaving the Earth Lightly Frogbit Kidney-leaf mud plantain Gentle funerals, helping family and friends, EARLY INTERVENTIONEARLY INTERVENTION honour, mourn and celebrate in personal ways SAVES YOU TIME & MONEY Cremations, Burials Full funeral service/home, chapel, church Locals supporting Locals. 0488559595 40A Hyde Street Bellingen Water hyacinth Salvinia Report it CONTACT YOUR COUNCIL INVASIVE PLANTS OFFICER ON (02) 6655 7300 OR THE NSW DPI BIOSECURITY HELPLINE ON 1800 680 244

PAGE 4 – BELLINGEN SHIRE NEWS WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3s, 2022 Checking in with the CWA – no slowdowns in sight By ROBYN HANKSHAW accommodation crisis aff ecting A couple of recent highlights espite the impact of so many; kept the rooms in have been making and sending DCOVID-10 over the past good order for the community beautiful knitted and crocheted few months, Bellingen Country and health groups that use rugs to Lismore for the Womens Association (CWA) them, and overall, have been fl ood appeal, and helping to members have been kept busy enjoying friendship and support purchase a washing machine as ever. at monthly meetings. for a preschool in the Northern Th eir volunteers have provided Th ey are always welcoming of Rivers that could be used by the help to others, particularly fl ood new faces, and happily urge all greater community. victims; enjoyed each others those interested to come along We also participated in the company at craft days; learned at 9.30 am on the fi rst Monday State Conference, at which about various environment of each month to the CWA Hall 100 years of CWA NSW was issues; discussed the on Church St, Bellingen. celebrated – an incredible milestone. We have been making craft items for the Easter Show bags, and fundraising via street stalls and mask sales. We have sent donations to the Tongan Appeal, and the State Disaster Fund that assist many communities in crisis. One president, Kaye Guinness, gained a 2nd place in the State handicraft competition for a gorgeous lap quilt. Th e CWA is also deeply focused on learning, and each year we commit to educating ourselves on a variety of diff erent topics. In 2022, our fl ora focus is the A LITTLE OF EVERYTHING: CWA members working at their recent stall. Banksia, our fauna species is the Australasian Bittern, and our study each year, and in 2022 we stories and, enjoy a delicious Agricultural Foe is the Black are learning about Latvia. Latvian lunch. Willow. You are invited to come to Th e cost is $15 for morning To fi nd out more or RSVP, At our monthly meetings our International Day on Friday tea and lunch, and will be held please be in touch by August we hear interesting facts and 12 August at 10.30am, where in the CWA rooms on Church 9th to Iris Goldstein on concerns regarding these plants we will learn about the people, Street, Bellingen. 6655 1231, or email and animals. history, and craft s of Latvia. We look forward to seeing you [email protected] We also have a country of You can also listen to some there! We’ll turn Sponsored by: that frown upside down. Services. Meet The Team.
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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2022 BELLINGEN SHIRE NEWS – PAGE 5 Bellingen Plant Fair on mission to get more plants in the ground he Bellingen Environment Th e BEC gives special thanks Centre Inc (BEC) is T to the good people who have pleased to announce that the coordinated the Plant Fair in Plant Fair Team are already the past. Th eir passion and hard at work preparing for the dedication have given the event forthcoming Spring Plant Fair a life of its own. on September 10th at Bellingen A big thanks goes to Colin Park. Broadfoot, Lesley Green, Carla For over three decades this Bower, and Clayton Colmer ever-popular, biannual event for who from 2017, generously locals has drawn visitors from contributed and upgraded across the region, and as far systems, leading to further afi eld as Sydney and Brisbane. growth and sustainability, Kaz Selbie, the new Plant Fair especially when Covid, fi res and Coordinator says she is looking fl oods challenged everyone. forward to taking the Plant Fair BEC also acknowledges through the next chapter. the amazing strength and “Im excited to be part of such determination of our plant an important event, passionate growers, who have overcome about its aim – to get more many obstacles over the years. plants in the ground. Th is year Th ey are essential for our we have a big focus on natives community, and need our and food, so were calling out support as food prices rise, for these growers to join us”, said and we strive towards plant Kaz. resilience. “Everyone is welcome to Th e Bellingen Plant Fair is also attend and buy plants. Our earth on a mission to bring people is relying on it! And its always a together. Growers and patrons good day when you come home share valuable information, with a carload of plants. educating our community “We also have delicious food, on the importance of healthy cold drinks, coff ee, growers soil and plants, nurturing and market fresh produce and other protecting our environment. Th e Bellingen Plant Fair Th e popular event relies on Bellingen Park comes alive with in your diary, and get your plant plant related products, along Th is year Landcare, Northbank continues to grow through volunteers who are a big part of activity and energy. list ready for a spring plant out with local music, workshops, Community Garden, Bello the passion and dedication of the day. Its a fun gig with lots Everyone contributes and and help get more plants in the a big plant raffl e, community Seed Savers, and Biodynamic many good people; our faithful of jobs to do, and many hands compliments the fragrant, ground. groups, and kids activities. Its Agriculture Aust will be there sponsors, Kombu Wholefoods, make light work. If interested, colourful, and beautiful mosaic going to be a fabulous day, all to answer questions and inspire Hearthfi re Bakery, and Shades please go to the web page to read of the Bellingen Spring Plant For more information go to united in our love of plants”, says your gardening endeavours and of Green, and the awesome more. Fair. https://bellingenplantfair.org Kaz. desires. plant growers and volunteers. United before sunrise, Put Saturday September 10th Shades of Green is having a party and you are invited! Please join us for our hades of Green proprietor Ben SRose (pictured right) is inviting the community to come along and help celebrate the 2nd birthday of his thriving business. Its all happening on Saturday, August 13 on the premises at 111 Short Cut Road, Raleigh, and there will be prizes to be won, discounts on many products and coff ee and snags on sale. You can also take a close-up look at the speedway car (pictured below) 2ND BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION! sponsored by Shades of Green. * Chat to our Brand Representatives * Coffee Cart * Prizes * Sausage Sizzle * Discounts * Our sponsored Speedway car SATURDAY 13TH AUGUST 2022 8AM-2PM

PAGE 6 – BELLINGEN SHIRE NEWS WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2022 Shout out for help for Kalang in Bellingen shop windows By LOUISE CRANNY On July 19th, Federal Environment and ADAM NORRIS Minister Tanya Plibersek delivered ver the last few weeks, you may have the 2021 State of the Environment Onoticed a rather cute visitor fl itting Report at the National Press Club and about town. expressed her deep concerns at the lack Th e extremely shy Rufous Scrub Bird, of environmental protection currently in Atrichornis rufescens, started appearing place in Australia. in the windows of Bellingen businesses Th e report detailed rapid and accompanied by the message, Save the widespread decline of our ecological Kalang Headwaters. systems, with many on the brink of Th ough you may not be all that familiar irrevocable collapse. Australia now has with Rufous – which is unsurprising, one of the highest rates of extinction of given their dwindling numbers and all fi rst world countries. penchant for hiding amongst leaf litter Habitat loss is the primary cause – they are in fact considered living fossils of extinction. Birds like Rufuous – by the Foundation for National Parks and many other rare and endangered and Wildlife, having evolved some 97 species – will be seriously threatened if million years ago. the proposed industrial logging of the When the Chicxulub asteroid ended Kalang Headwaters goes ahead in mid- the age of the dinosaurs 66 million years September, as indicated by Forestry ago and wiped out most of the worlds Corporation. birds, Rufous – along with its cousin, the Th e koala, the greater glider, the golden Lyrebird – managed to survive. bellied glider, the spotted quoll and many Th ey are the only remaining ancestors more may lose their homes and become of the worlds ancient song birds, and endangered. are so signifi cant that Australia has been Soil expert Michael Eddy has warned asked by the United Nations to help that the steep slopes of the Kalang save this unique and highly-threatened headwaters should never be logged. species. Combined with very unstable soils Th e Rufuous Scrub Birds are ground and heavy rainfall, massive erosion and dwellers, spending much of their time downstream siltation can easily result. foraging in deep, moist leaf litter, Th is will put the platypus, other aquatic searching for insects and grubs. creatures at serious risk. Th e water As they are so shy and cryptic, they security of the Kalang, Bellingen and are mostly identifi ed by their very loud Nambucca Rivers will also be threatened. distinctive call and ability to mimic other sounds. For a little bird, they show To fi nd out how you can help, and some impressive stamina, with the males learn more about the Headwaters territorial call lasting more than ten Conservation Proposal, please visit minutes. www.fr iendsofk alangheadwaters.com.au OUR ELUSIVE NEIGHBOUR: the Rufous Scrub Bird needs your support. PHOTO: Michael Morecombe.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2022 BELLINGEN SHIRE NEWS – PAGE 7 ts a testament to our greater community spirit that so many Ilocal groups and organisations are currently on the hunt for new members to swell their ranks. It stretches across the full spectrum of ages, too – from playgroups, to Mens Sheds and CWAs. Suffi ce to say, if you feel the niggling urge to get out and try something new, youll likely fi nd a group happy to show you the ropes. Ive had a brief time away from the Mid North Coast, swapping our valley to my once-upon-a-time home in the Bega Valley. From there I swung past Sydney to visit friends before returning north, and while theres plenty of excitements that the City has to off er, it really brought home just how remarkable this Shire is. Th e wildlife, the dizzying natural splendour, and perhaps most of all, the community. Ill stop before I start insisting we all hold hands and sing Kumbaya, but theres a lot to be thankful for just by living in these parts. Of course, its not always the easiest place to live, as the ongoing housing crisis readily attests. Yet its heartening to see organisations like the Dorrigo Neighbourhood Centre launching their community meal program, and the local concern for preserving our ecological heritage. Th is edition, weve dedicated our front page to showcasing the Councils new Ageing Well Strategy Consultation. Its a chance to have your say in quite an important document, informing the future policies that will help shape the support and engagement that local government can off er our senior population. Finally, a little bird tells me that our evergreen, ever-smiling sports and entertainment reporter may be making a return again just in time for Edition 20 – lets keep our fi ngers crossed, shall we, that a certain wordsmith may once more hit the Marks ... ur Shires Community Vision 2035 is a peoples plan, and Opaints a clear picture of how we as a community see our Shire evolve towards 2035. Our Vision highlights the aspirations and strategic directions we as community will take to remain connected, sustainable and creative. In order to enable our plan, Council plays a key role in delivering services to our community. However, not all the commitments are within our control and therefore responsibility for achieving our long-term goals rests with everyone, including Council, other levels KEEP YOUR EYES PEELED: in Brierfield and beyond while adventurous echidnas are out exploring of government, businesses, community organisations, as well as our residents. So when not in direct control or partnership, Council gives voice to the needs and aspirations of the community by advocating for changes in policy and action at relevant levels of government and industry to bring about the best outcomes for our community. At last weeks Council meeting, I called on our Councillors to Supporting our I was inspired to return to however my heart went out to frequency, maximum heights support the local government campaign on the fi nancial accounting Pacific neighbours Australia and raise funds for these children. It seems like a and overall severity of fl ooding treatment of Rural Fire Service (RFS) mobile assets known as the ecently I attended the such a worthy cause and help small ask to help our Pacifi c and fl ash-fl ooding in the valley. ‘Red Fleet. Ropening of the Sri Sathya to ensure that this magnifi cent neighbours. I know if it was my When these man-made, Th is long-standing dispute over the accounting treatment of the Sai Sanjeevani Childrens Heart hospital operates for many child, I would be desperate to government-sponsored disasters Red Fleet has come to a head with the Auditor-Generals 2021 Hospital in Fiji. decades to come. access the lifesaving surgery. damage or destroy the homes, Report on Local Government. Th e Audit Report reemphasises the Th e state-of-the-art paediatric It has been through the love All donations over $2 are farmland, livestock, and State Government determination that RFS assets are the “property” hospital provides surgery, free of and kindness of people and tax deductible and sent to the businesses at Kalang, Brierfi eld, of Councils and must be recorded in Councils fi nancial statements. cost, to children in Fiji and the organisations around the world hospital via Health In Kind, an Newry Island and Urunga, will Council, therefore, is required to absorb all depreciation costs. Pacifi c suff ering from congenital that it stands today, however, Australian not-for-profi t charity. the Premier and his government Th is dispute, directly with the State Government, does not heart disease (CHD). the challenge now is to generate All those working at Health In adequately compensate the discount Councils complete support of our local RFS Brigades, and Each year, 200 children in enough funds to cover the Kind are volunteers including victims? No, they will not. recognises the valuable contribution each and every volunteer makes Fiji are born with CHD and visiting surgical teams until such the doctors and nurses. I beseech him to do the right to our community. However, should the Council recognise the RFS over 2500 throughout the time that surgeons in Fiji can be www.healthinkind.org.au thing, match his words with assets in its fi nancial statements, it will have a detrimental impact Pacifi c region. Sadly, most of trained. Kathryn Edmunds actions and pull the plug on this on the operating result of Council in the order of approximately these children do not reach Given that each surgery costs ridiculous, costly and highly $500,000 per annum. adulthood. $13,000, I am reaching out to Save Kalang catchment destructive project. Bellingen Shire Council derecognised RFS Assets in 2016 and this Over a period of three weeks, those within our community he NSW Premier Dominic Peter Miethke issue has been discussed by the Council Audit, Risk and Improvement I was fortunate to observe and further afi eld who may be TPerottet wants to have Kalang Committee as well as Council on numerous occasions. the recovery of the fi rst 30 able to contribute to this worthy it both ways. He describes Importantly, we recognise that this cost shi is not acceptable; that children who underwent heart cause in any way possible. the recent fl ood events as, Send letters to the editor Council do not own, or have eff ective management or control of Your contribution goes operations, the youngest being ‘disastrous and ‘catastrophic by email to editor@ these assets, nor should they. Accordingly, along with the support of seven weeks and the oldest 14 directly towards saving the lives but at the same time he and bellingenshirenews.com.au Local Government NSW we will continue to resist pressure from the years. of these little ones. I am aware his government still intend to Letters must have name Audit Offi ce and make our own determinations through continued I witnessed the joy and relief that most people have their own log the upper catchment and and phone number for lobbying and advocacy to State Agenices on the matter. from their parents, many of preferred charities, and a lot has headwaters of the Kalang River. Th is is just one example of advocacy in action as we continue to whom had already lost children been asked of our community Th is tragic, ill-advised activity verification. Phone numbers address issues that matter most to our community. to CHD. recently with the fi res and fl oods would greatly increase the will not be published.

PAGE 8 – BELLINGEN SHIRE NEWS WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2022 Dorrigo Neighbourhood Meal launched GARDEN - LANDSCAPE - SUPPLIES FOR ALL YOUR GARDENING NEEDS WHERE THE LOCALS SHOPWHERE THE LOCALS SHOP Nursery • Mulch • Woodchip GErika Munan and Bruce Naylor usher in the first of many community meals on the Plateau. Soils • Sands • Aggregate By ERIKA MUNAN 130pm, and there is no cost to meals of beautiful savoury mince, onnecting Dorrigo hosted its attend. amazing dhal, rice and bread. Cement products • Gravel Cinaugural community meal on Local venue Th e Never Never We enjoyed 34 bookings and July 28th at 12pm. Mind was selected to kick off the several more people who saw our Connecting Neighbourhood Dorrigo Neighbourhood Meal, signs and were welcomed to join in. NEW DRIVE -TRU! Centres already have community courtesy of Dandarrga Landcare Uncle Allan Phillips gave a moving meals in Urunga and Bellingen, and Dorrigo Seed Savers, who are welcome and acknowledgement to and our aim is to establish a big supporters of seasonal meals, Country, and a short blessing from unique complimentary meal event shared by locals. another local before we all tucked in Dorrigo that gives residents a We also reached out to the into our meals. chance to gather, that is also for community and were so pleased to A er our meals, everyone washed the long-term sustainability of the be able to include local providers up their own bowls and utensils and community. Plateau Farms, as well as the Dorrigo settled into coff ee, tea and assorted We are committed to welcoming Butcher, Dorrigo Bakery, IGA biscuits, enjoying the fi re and the all walks of life on the Plateau, and Dorrigo and Dorrigo Youth Centre. music put on by Avril, Ian and hope to share with everyone that Polly from Sunshine at Hickorys friends. this is a great chance to break bread generously donated her time, Lunch-goers were also gi ed with other community members. supplies and expertise in preparing spinach seed packets, courtesy of Food is available from 12pm- this seasons simple but yummy Dorrigo Community Nursery. Safeguarding the future NEW NURSERY By ADAM NORRIS As a full member of the Nature “A local Environment Centre ince 1989 the Bellingen Conservation Council of NSW, as holds a unique responsibility to SEnvironment Centre (BEC) has well as being a member of the North the community it represents,” Ruby been a staunch advocate for our Coast Environment Council, the said. natural environment, welcoming BEC has developed into one of the “It should advocate for our many members over the years in leading community organisations environment, nurture younger their eff orts to promote and protect dedicated not only to environmental voices, and be a hub to connect the unique biodiversity of the Shire. issues impacting the Bellinger Valley and inspire environmentalists from At BECs monthly committee and surrounds, but to the realities of diff erent cultures and backgrounds meeting on June 7th, three members climate change more broadly. across all generations.” tended their resignation, including “It is more important than “If you arent already a member, two members of the executive – ever that we come together as a now is the time to sign-up. Attend Treasurer, and Secretary. community to protect this place the Annual General Meeting later Th e organisation is now looking to from decision-makers who are this year, and vote in people with the community once again to share hellbent on destroying the planet diverse skills and experiences onto their time and skills by taking an for a quick buck,” Carly continued. the committee. active role in BEC governance. “Th e BEC has a 30-year history “Members are encouraged to Former Secretary Carly Flemming of community members coming commit to preserving the local is concerned that without new together to do great work protecting environment through teamwork members coming onboard, the BEC our local environment.” and skill sharing. Th ere are many may struggle to maintain the vast Carly is not the only resigned passionate people of all-ages array of projects and affi liations it is committee member calling out to living in the Bellingen area who committed to across the region. the community. Another former could empower themselves, and 111Shortcut 3oad, “Th e organisation is not future- Secretary, Ruby Oliver-King, also the community, in the face of a 3aleigh proofi ng itself. It struggles to retain hopes that the organisation can fi nd challenging future.” Ph: 0466 690 978 and nurture dedicated and skilled new members to ensure the BEC To learn more about the BEC, TUE - FRI: 7am - 4pm community members who have a does not lose momentum. With including information about SAT: 8am - 1pm genuine passion for preserving the active and engaged new members, their ongoing campaigns, local natural environment,” said they argue, the BEC faces a much visit their website at www. Carly. more secure future. bellingenenvironmentcentre.org.au

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2022 BELLINGEN SHIRE NEWS – PAGE 9

PAGE 10 – BELLINGEN SHIRE NEWS WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2022 Council’s commitment to youth and community he Bellingen Shire Youth accessed by youth, young adults THUB is arguably one of the and families seeking support, busiest community facilities in advice, inspirational guidance, our shire. and resources. Sometimes, it is Dorrigo Plateau Motor Mechanic Each year the HUB engages simply somewhere to laugh, cry, with more than eighty create and play. community organisations, hosts Th e HUB has delivered POSITION VACANT over one thousand events, and some remarkable indicators Pharmacy attracts more than fourteen- of its community impact, DOUST & FITZGERALD FORD thousand guests. with instances of anti-social in Dorrigo are seeking a fully qualified motor For more than 10 years, Dean behaviour at an all-time low, mechanic to join their team. Besley has worked tirelessly and glowing endorsements from v 99CNMKP%18+&CPF Excellent opportunities for the right applicant. alongside a Management local police, juvenile justice HNWXCEEKPCVKQPU Committee to coordinate the and youth service providers all We have a fully-equipped workshop servicing operations of the HUB, helping confi rming the positive impact 0QCRRQKPVOGPVPGGFGF and repairing all makes and models. to provide in- kind support to the HUBs youth engagement Diagnostic skills essential. a suite of social, cultural, and activities have had in the artistic programs. reduction of youth crime rates Trading hours - Certification for E-Safety inspections would But now it is time for Dean to since its inception. Monday to Friday : 8.45am to 5.30pm be an advantage but is not essential. redirect his focus and embark on Th e Bellingen Shire Council Saturday : 9 to 1pm Full Drivers Licence is required. new challenges, knowing that a recognises the importance of Salary Negotiable community legacy is now alive the Hub within our community 67 Hickory St and thriving. and is committed to its ongoing Call Graham on 02 6657 2116 Its a testament to Deans success and with our staff , Dorrigo Alternatively email your resume to leadership and guidance that volunteers and Management NSW 2453 gdfi[email protected] the HUB has become such a Committee we will facilitate the Ph. 0266572005 trusted and valued community transition to fi ll the big shoes resource that is regularly that Dean leaves. 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Glass cut to size •Rural Plumbing Discount Deborah Marks . Robe Doors Yes! we will be available over the holiday period . Stainless Steel Security AUSTRALIAN CALL: 0408 250 904 WINDOW EMAIL: [email protected] Unit 1/1a Marina Crescent, ASSOCIATION Trades and Services Urunga 2455 Call Danny E: [email protected] 3/1A MARINA CRS, URUNGA Advertising W: www.midcoasttilesurunga.com Ph. (02) 6655 6044 Calling all Tradies and Services around the Bellingen T: 02 6655 6650 Mobile 0418 666 331 Shire! M: 0410 454 561 Email: [email protected] Call or Email Brad to book your Trades and Services Advert in Website: www.urungawindowsandglass.com.au our new Trades and Services Guide All Enquiries Welcome Security Master Lic No. 410587801 Lic No 167562C 0411 717 555 [email protected]

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2022 BELLINGEN SHIRE NEWS – PAGE 11 How About That – new and exciting musical group hat could be described and educational concerts. accomplished sax player who Was a casual conversation Memo studied classical resides in Bellingen, has been question awaiting an guitar at University, and has a key fi gure in the music scene interesting answer is not quite a good knowledge of jazz and for over 35 years. the name of a musical group Latin American, studying He is know for his great you expect to hear. with private tutors and years sound and understanding of a How About Th at comprises; of performing with musicians range of musical styles. Emiliano Beltzer playing from all parts of the American Chris has been directing double bass, Chris Frater — continent. the Bellingen Big Band since saxophone, Glen Hodges on He also holds a Diploma 1998, helped set up the 1990 guitar, Ivan Pliaskin in the in Sound Production, has Bellingen Jazz Festival. drum chair. recorded and mixed albums Over the decades he has Emiliano, Chris and and EPs, plus created played in many musical settings Glen met whilst teaching soundtracks for theatre and i.e. Zoobop, Th e Chris Frater at Coff s Harbour Regional video documentaries. Quartet, Speak-Easy. Currently he plays with Triptych, Conservatorium and with Ivan Dr Glen Hodges has they have realised their shared taught for over 30 years, Off spring Gypsies, FreFra and interest in original music. instrumental, vocal, ensemble William Street. Th ey have put together a and composition at Uni of Ivan Pliaskin, USSR born repertoire drawn from their Tasmania, Central QLD drummer with strong accent extensive libraries that they Uni, and Griffi th Uni. He has and unknown past, has been have composed throughout received numerous awards and seen around many artists, their careers. scholarships in Australia and performing with everyone and Th ere is no question of the overseas. everywhere including Iceland quality and experience this new Glen was a teaching fellow at and the North Pole. group has in its ranks. the University of North Texas Dont like pumpkins and Each member has decades of and Texas Wesleyan University. sultanas. playing throughout Australia His Phd with Macquarie Secretive character. Married. and around the world. University (Sydney) studied How About Th at is a new Emiliano Beltzer is a guitarist the improvisation style of jazz and exciting group able to and bass player from Argentina. guitar great Jimmy Rainey. share with you a musical Starting his musical studies Glen has performed at conversation and compositions age 6, obtained a Teaching numerous jazz festivals, that will be of great interest. degree age 17, in various working with Australias fi nest For more info contact Chris environments - classrooms, one musicians. Frater via chrisfr ater8@ gmail.com or 0421 190 05 on one tutoring, workshops Chris Frater is an

PAGE 12 – BELLINGEN SHIRE NEWS WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3, 2022 g Bellingen NEWS SHIRE SPORT Bulldogs girls are all set for finals By MILO BOWD Th e start saw the Swoopers play some t was another glorious day of footy silky footy and by half-time they had Ifor the Bellingen Bulldogs. themselves a six goal lead. First game saw U11s play ladder Th e Doggies dug deep and leaders Port Swoopers. continued to work hard kicking It was a challenging game with Port seven goals in the third quarter. playing some great footy. Th eir tenacity and eff ort was To their credit the U11s fought rewarded going into the fourth hard to the end with some great quarter with only a seven point defence. margin. Henry Davis continually improves Th e fourth quarter saw the each week and held his own in the Swoopers come away with the win ruck. Elliott Boshier took some but the boys could be very proud of outstanding marks with precision their eff ort. kick placement. Special mention to Jarrah Perrot Evan Campbell was relentless in who took some phenomenal marks defence and never stopped tackling backing it up with amazing kicking and Sage Michinton was everywhere, accuracy. always backing up his team mates. Finlay Campbell fi ghting hard in U14s girls travelled south to the centre to clear the ball with some Stuarts Point to play Nambucca great run down tackles, Caspian Valley Lions. Boshier played out of his skin on the Th e girls played their best game of wing and Josh Graham with such the season, really coming together as reliable hands taking some brilliant a team. marks overhead. Th ey dominated with centre Well done lads! clearances, great hands and kicks Graft on Tigers travelled south to hitting their targets. play our Youth Girls at Mylestom, By half-time they were nine goals Graft on were light on numbers so up and the girls just went from some of our girls played for Graft on. strength to strength. Th is added extra incentive as the It was an outstanding eff ort by all. girls love hustling against each other. Special mention to Grace Witte Loads of skills, laughs and goals who took an outstanding mark and kicked. Gracie Winfer who dominated in Bellingen came away with the win the forward line. cementing their spot in second place. U13s played an exciting game With only two more rounds until against the Port Swoopers who the fi nals both our girls teams are With only two more rounds until the finals both our girls teams arelooking set for semi-final berths. currently sit second on the ladder. looking set for semi-fi nal berths. Urunga Bowlers win Sunshine Fours WINNERS: Mark Nugent, Joel Di Ianni, Dave Miles (skip) and John Davis. Congratulations from Urunga Club manager Mark Parry (right) By PAMELA WATSON Teams travelled from as far as 2 with 158 points, Rhys Riddell runga bowling club held their Queensland to down the coast and skippered team 3 with 156 points, Uannual event (the Sunshine out west. Allan Pyke skippered team 4 Fours) mens two-day tournament, Im sure Walcha and Gulgong with 155 points, and Ian Pender last weekend. teams came to fi nd some warmer skippered team 5 with 150 points. On Saturday the weather was a weather, unfortunately we didnt Congratulations to all who played mix of rain and wind with a little provide the weather they had over the weekend and to those lucky sun trying to shine, making reading wished for. enough to be in the winners circle the greens very diffi cult. Congratulations to our own team with ra es and lucky numbers. Sunday the sun shone (although it skipped by Dave Miles, with 163 A big thank you to staff and was still very cold), 28 teams played points. volunteers who make this hugh for the prize money. Rick Southam skippered team event the success it is.