june heartbeat 2013

www.heartbeat.net.au

free l June 2013 no. 170 l Celebrating the life and times of the loCal Community

May was all about kids

See our reports on pages 12 & 13 and 22 & 23. Now it’s time to get out the warm woolies and look forward to the joys of winter.

HeartbeatBangalow’s

2 BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT

www.heartbeat.net.auPO Box 132 Bangalow NSW 2479Editors: Dianne Martin 6687 2592Ruth KirbyEmail: [email protected] Cover illustration: Jessica UreAdvertising: Janelle Saunders

0422 069 861 [email protected] Production: Allie LeoDesign: Niels Arup Editorial team: Judy Baker, Don Brown, Marika Bryant, Sophie Clare, Tony Hart, Robin Osborne, Lyn Plummer, Benny Saunders, Sally Schofield, Andrea Sturgeon,

Brian SundstromDistribution: Bangalow P.O., Brian Sundstrom, Peter Bradridge, Neil McKenzie Website: Joanna WilkinsonAccounts: Rob CampbellChairman: Neville Maloney

DISCLAIMER. This newsletter is published by Banga-low’s Heartbeat Incorporated PO Box 132 NSW 2479. Hon. Editors Dianne Martin, Ruth Kirby, Hon Sec/Public Officer Neville Maloney. Membership is open to all adult residents of the 2479 postal district. The opinions expressed by individual contributors are not necessarily shared by the Editors and other members of the Association committee. While every reason-able effort is made to publish accurate information, Bangalow’s Heartbeat Inc. accepts no responsibility for statements made or opinions expressed.

BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT2

DISCLAIMER. This news-letter is published by Bangalow’s Heartbeat Incorporated PO Box 132 NSW 2479. Hon Editors Dianne Martin; Ruth Kirby, Hon Sec/Public Officer Helen Wilson. Membership is open to all adult residents of the ‘2479’ postal district. The opinions expressed by individual contributors are not necessarily shared by the Editors and other members of the Association committee. While every reasonable effort is made to publish accurate information, Bangalow’s Heartbeat Inc. accepts no responsibility for statements made or opinions expressed.B

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www.heartbeat.net.auPO Box 132 Bangalow NSW 2479Editors: Dianne Martin 6687 2592Ruth KirbyEmail: [email protected] Advertising: Janelle SaundersEmail: [email protected]: [email protected] .au

Editorial Team: Judy Baker, Marika Bryant, Tony Hart, Lyn Plummer, Brian Sundstrom, Christobel MunsonSub Editor: Helen WilsonDistribution: Bangalow Post Office, Brian Sundstrom, Peter BradridgeWeb Pages: Wendy GrayAccounts: Rob CampbellChariman: Neville Maloney

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editorial

bangalow’s heartbeat

meet the team

Sally and her young family left the bright lights of Sydney behind four years ago in search of more space and more stars in the sky. They now call Bangalow home.

A freelance writer for over 20 years, Sally has written about music, relationships, travel and food and wine. In her free time she enjoys reading and writing, but not arithmetic.

The past eight years have been dedicated to running a successful online marketing business with husband Isaac. Together they juggle working together and raising two delightful children. Somehow, it works.

May was another busy month in our amazing town, the highlights being the Bangalow Lions Billycart Derby and the In Harmony Choralfest. Read all about it. There were cars parked everywhere, I guess that’s the downside of hosting so many wonderful events throughout the year. I’m glad I can walk to town.

June is upon us and we can look for-ward to fireworks at the Newrybar Pub-lic School, lots of music and dancing at the Bowlo, a Poetry and Music Tea Par-ty, and more. Sadly, our beloved Caba-

ret da Desh is taking a rest this year but will return in 2014. As the performers will have extended time for rehearsals it should be an even bigger and better show.

The vexed issue of the weir restora-tion is reaching a conclusion; see page 3 for the results of our call for input. Hopefully we will see action in the near future to return the site to a pleasant area for paddling, picnics, barbecues, children and dog play and (sometimes) quiet contemplation. Di Martin

Robin returned to Bangalow recently after four years as media and corporate communications director for the Northern Territory Department of Health. He was media manager for the (then) Northern Rivers Area Health Service, Southern Cross University and editor of the Northern Rivers Echo in Lismore. He was a freelance correspondent in SE Asia for a range of media outlets, press secretary to the PNG prime minister and has worked at Triple J and SBS TV. He is the author of Indonesia’s Secret War: The Guerilla Struggle in Irian Jaya (Allen & Unwin).

Sally SchofieldJournalist

Robin OsborneJournalist

Responding to an invitation in last month’s Heartbeat, a good number of individuals and groups representing their memberships wrote emails and letters outlining their preferences for the Bangalow weir and plans for the park precinct.

An overwhelming number of respondents opted for a restoration of the weir to a height of 0.9m, about level with the concreted area of the wading pool and depicted recently on the front cover of the May edition of Heartbeat. A few preferred restoration of the weir at either of the two higher levels although there was no support recorded for removal of the weir. One local mother commented, “It’s a great place for kids to be kids. There aren’t many spots in Bangalow for that to happen.” Another thought it “imperative that the area be made inviting and pleasant for locals and

visitors ... including facilities for picnicking and barbequing, with seating and well maintained toilets”. As summed up by another resident, many sought “ a compromise between a natural creek and completely restoring the weir.”

The results of this survey, and responses are still coming in, will be presented to the Mayor and General Manager once finalised.

Local resident and civil engineer, Christopher Taylor, has very generously offered to prepare design drawings for a restoration option at the 0.9m level, including plans for the stabilisation of the western bank and work such as removal of handrails and generally making the area safe. Christopher comes with extensive relevant experience and is confident that the work required could be contained well below estimates that have previously been floated. His plans and

estimates will be presented at the forthcoming meeting. The Bangalow Weir Group plans to release details of his plan, and Byron Council’s reaction, in the July Heartbeat.

The fortunes of the pool have been documented over the life of Heartbeat and back in the October 2001 edition it was reported that the difficult issues involved with the maintenance of the pool would be taken ‘step by step’. Twenty four truckloads, almost 300 tonnes, of mud and silt were taken from the pool and removed, along with the weed infestation, sticks, logs and other items. Even then the prospect of building a fish ladder was suggested as a means of allowing native fish to get upstream. One giant step later, or perhaps many many tiptoes, a process is in place that is very likely to see some action as we move through the year. Terry Bleakley

3JUNE 2013

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local news

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local news

Bangalow resounded with beautiful voices at the third annual In Harmony Choralfest held 11-12 May, a “fantastic community event, a weekend of sharing voices, hearts and harmonies”, according to organisers and leaders. The memory of Michael Malloy was honoured as the man who inspired the event back in 2010 along with Anita Bellman, Executive Director of the Northern Rivers Conservatorium. “I’m sure Michael would be thrilled”, she commented.

The five workshops on the Saturday, which were aimed at giving singers the opportunity to improve their skills and try something different, were well received. Local resident and Choirbaby member Jim Whittle attended the Hear Your Male Voice workshop and reported, “I got heaps out of the workshop I did with Brian Martin.” As for me, I learned some valuable hints about easier breathing from Choirbaby conductor and superb

teacher Imogen Wolf. No doubt the other workshops were of the same high quality.

The Idea of North concert on Saturday night packed out the Catholic Hall with an adoring audience. As Australia’s premier contemporary a capella ensemble and with 20 years singing together, their imaginative arrangements of classic songs from pop, jazz, folk, gospel and comedy genres won the audience here as it has worldwide.

On the Sunday, more than 100 choristers from 11 choirs sang across three venues, alternating between being the choir and the audience. Visiting choirs from Bellingen and Tweed Heads were present. Imogen commented, “The standard of participating choirs seems to get better every year, and I love seeing these choirs improving and obviously enjoying themselves”. Others made similar observations. The youngest chorister was little Olive O’Reilly from

Gapappella at Woodburn who is only six years old but brought the house down with her counter melody in Leonard Cohen’s Dance Me to the End of Love. This choir included three generations of her family along with a proud great grandmother in the audience!

But the highlight for most is, as always, the Big Sing where members of the participating choirs come together to form a mass choir to lift the roof off the A&I Hall. “Being in a newly formed choir group, learning four songs in two hours then performing them at the finale was fantastic”, said Jim. “Brian and Imogen did an incredible job.” And as another Big Sing attendee said, “Just left Bangalow after enjoying an afternoon of wonderful singing… and there above Bangalow was the most beautiful complete rainbow! That says it all! Thank you for a great event.” Ruth Kirby


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This year, residents of 2479 will again enjoy the benefits of a local business directory and visitor guide to our beautiful village and region. The Book of Bangalow business community directory provides a comprehensive listing of every business in the 2479 area as well as a new showcase of visitor guide information.

This comprehensive visitor guide will showcase our natural and business attractions as well as all our wonderful accommodation and good food, including in 2013/14:l Focus on all the great shopping options in the 2479 areal Focus on all the fantastic eateries, cafes and restaurants in the 2479 areal Accommodation options

l Old wares and antiques and where to find theml Natural attractions like Killen Falls and Bangalow Pool Parkl Tourist attractions like the Crystal Castle and Macadamia Castlel Heritage attractions like the Bangalow Heritage walk and our own Heritage House Museum and tea rooms.

“The aim of the Bangalow Chamber is to provide a network of support for local businesses and the community,” Peter Mortimore, President of the Bangalow Chamber of Commerce said.

“The Bangalow Chamber of Commerce is committed to sustainable growth, renewal and prosperity and believes we can meet the diverse needs of our

community while also respecting our surrounding eco systems.”

The Book of Bangalow 2013/14 will be distributed free to every resident in the 2479 area in September and will be available free for visitors to our region at local and regional tourist information offices, including the Bangalow Post Office and participating local retail outlets.

Chamber of Commerce meetings are held on the first Wednesday of every month at Heritage House from 5.30pm with a 6pm start. The next meeting is on Wednesday, 5 June.

All business owners and community members are invited to attend and become members. Allison Leo

Now who’s heard of Crowdfunding? Seems to be a new term but probably an old idea. I’ve heard of it mostly in the music industry and more recently Lismore Regional Gallery but then I realised it is exactly what we have been doing with Bangalow Landcare group and our patrons project. Crowdfunding is basically the idea that lots of people help with small amounts of funds that go directly to the cause or artist, thereby eliminating the middle man or in some cases many middle men. Wikipedia defines crowd-funding as:

Crowdfunding is the application of the concept of crowdsourcing, the collection of funds through small contributions from many parties in order to finance a particular project or venture.

So at the recent AGM, buoyed by a recent upsurge of interest in the groups’ activities and increased attendance at working

bees, the group voted to keep going. If you read the news you know that the state government is withdrawing funding for landcare so more than ever we need the support of the residents of the Bangalow district to keep making a difference.

The funds raised this year have been earmarked to hire a local bush regenerator to maintain projects most in need, especially the sports fields. We have set a target of $5000 to cover the costs for this year including wages, tools and general supplies. Can we count on Bangalow to help us get here?

If we are supported beyond the target we would also like to place permanent label posts on a selection of the new planting at the wetland to promote it as a mini botanic garden of Big Scrub Rainforest.

Patron support so far this year has raised $925. We hope to achieve our target and

hopefully beyond, which will allow us to do even more for our community.

Becoming a patron is easy. A donation of as little as $25 makes you a patron. All details are on www.bangalowlandcare.org.au or simply email [email protected] for a registration form. With a population in 2479 of nearly 2000 people I think our target is very achievable with your support. Thanks in advance Bangalow district.2013 Patrons April/MayGold : Vitality Vetcare, Helps Family, GNF Real Estate, Hilary Herrmann, Dawn Lotty, Ruth and Phil KirbySilver: Bangalow Newsagency, Bangalow Community Children’s Centre, Richard RomboutsBronze: Carol Dorroch, Robert Lotty, Anne Martin, Bleakley Family, Dr Doug Mouncey. Liz Gander

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Grant writing workshopArts Northern Rivers is excited to present a series of one-day workshops examining some of the key strategies in writing successful grant applications, including a close up look at best practice examples. It’s also very timely, with a call for applications for the Regional Arts Fund and Country Arts Support Program about to be announced. A workshop is available at Byron Library Exhibition Space, Wednesday 5 June from 10am to 2pm, with a clinic to follow. Places are limited so book early to secure a place. Participation in the workshop costs $30 + booking fee, and includes a light lunch. The clinics are free and are only available to workshop participants. Bookings essential. For information, contact Zoe at [email protected] or 6628 8120. Arts Northern Rivers

Red Cross ReportOur next meeting is Friday, 7 June at the RSL Hall. On Monday, June 24, 1-3pm at the RSL, we have a special guest to explain the role of the Red Cross on the international stage and the laws of war – IHL. All welcome. Dot Gill

Hendra vaccination dayVitality Vetcare will be holding a special Hendra vaccination

day at Vitality Vetcare on 8 June with the second vaccination on 29 June. These viruses are a real worry for anyone handling horses. Megan Kearney

Bangalow Garden ClubThank you Elspeth and Ian Lacey who opened their splendid garden to us in May. It was an idyllic day weatherwise; we are not always lucky enough to get sunny days for our Saturday social visits. The next one on 8 June is to the five acre rural property of Glenda and John Schofield in Dunoon, about 30 minutes out of Bangalow. At the monthly meeting on 5 June at 1.30pm in the Moller Pavilion, Jan Lee will demonstrate the art of floral arranging. Helen Johnston

The Northern Rivers Rail Trail GroupThe newly formed group believes that a rail trail stretching from Casino to Murwillumbah would be a valuable alternative for cycling commuters, walkers and tourists as well as preserving the corridor for possible rail use in the future. The VIA Byron tourism body believes it would help to spread the numbers of tourists throughout the region and attract higher yield and longer staying tourists. Contact Marie Lawton at [email protected] to be on the mailing list or phone 0434 552 283. Eds

June at The BowloJune will be a great big month of music at the Bowlo. We are having large crowds at our live events so get in early for tickets.Dave Ades and Friends (featuring Tony Malaby from New York) on Thursday, 13

June. Dave is a locally-based alto saxophonist, internationally renowned for his unique and distinctive style of playing. Direct from the Melbourne Jazz Festival, with his long- time collaborator Tony Malaby joining him on stage, these saxophonists are set to deliver an engaging and explosive one night only jazz performance of impressive improvised saxophone tunes, especially for Bangalow. Tickets: Pre sale $25 Door $30 Lisa Hunt on Saturday, 15 June Lisa returns by popular demand. Her soul standards and Aretha Franklin-like delivery lifted the roof last time she performed at the club and she will do it again. Tickets: Pre sale $20, Door $25. Doors open at 7.00 pm. Kings of Country: Eagles and Credence Show on Friday, 21 June. This two-hour stage spectacular captures the sounds and excitement of two of America’s country rock iconic groups. It features all the timeless rock and roll classics that defined The Eagles and Credence Clearwater Revival as 1970s superstars. Come and join in with the Eagles’ Hotel

California and Take it Easy and CCR’s Cottonfields, Bad Moon Rising and Bangalow’s special song Who’ll stop the rain? Tickets $25 Doors open at 7.00 pm. The Perch Creek Family Jug Band on Friday, 28 June Justin Huntsdale on ABC News, Jan 2012 described the Perch Creek Family Jug Band as “an irresistible group of multi-instrumentalists with a foot-stomping sense of humour.”

Don’t forget our regular weekly dancing classes Lindy Hop on Wednesdays at 7pm, Tango at 5-7pm and Swing at 7.30pm on Thursdays and Sassy Salsa 6-8pm on Fridays, plus the monthly Jive Lounge (Friday, 7 June) which is proving incredibly popular. Go to www.bangalowbowlo.com.au for more information. Tony Hart

Flood informationByron Shire Council wants to hear from anyone who experienced flooding during the June 2005 and January 2012 flood events who has not already given council their information. Photographs, location of the flood, water levels and date the flooding occurred will be used to calibrate a computer model of flooding. If you have any information that you think could be useful, please contact Richard Sharpe, Project Manager from BMT WBM on 07 3831 6744 or [email protected] by Friday, 21 June 2013. BSC

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Afternoon movies at Newrybar HallWarm up a winter’s Sunday afternoon with a movie on 23 June at 2pm. In our winter program of movies at the hall we present the recently released romantic comedy Rust and Bone. Starring Marion Cotillard and Matthias Schoenaerts, this French/Belgian film received wide acclaim. David and Margaret from At the Movies gave it four and half stars. This film is rated M.

Coffee/tea and cake on conclusion. Also BYO. Tickets from Driftlab 6687 0751, Barebones 6687 1393, Talisman 6687 4551, or pay direct to Newrybar Hall BSB 032591 Account 326390 and advise purchase to [email protected]. Tickets $16 if purchased beforehand, and $20 at the door. This event is a fund raiser for the Hall. Ian Duncan

Telstra Business Women’s AwardsInspirational and innovative North Coast NSW business women are being encouraged to celebrate their success and enter the 2013 Telstra NSW Business Women’s Awards. The awards are open to business owners, women in the private, corporate, government and community sectors. There are also awards that recognise business innovation and young

business women. Nominations can be made at www.telstrabusinesswomensawards.com. Entries are now open and can be submitted until Tuesday, 25 June.

Bangalow Tennis Club At its recent AGM the following officeholders were elected for the 2013/14 year: Aileen Cole, president; Stephen Hall, vice president and public officer; Vivienne Westcott, secretary; Lois East, treasurer and membership officer.

Your membership supports the club and its general upkeep and provides you with valuable club accident insurance cover, eligibility for club competitions, and TNSW discounts. Renewals are to be paid to the club by 30 June 2013 for continued insurance cover. Fees will remain the same as last year, and forms are available at the club house; from Lois East at [email protected]; and from our very keen and able coach Denis Hopking at [email protected] or 0406 277 459. Support tennis in Bangalow – it is such a great game! Aileen Cole

Hoax callsTelstra has urged customers in the North Coast NSW region to be cautious when receiving calls from telemarketers claiming to be affiliated with

Telstra. Several customers have reported concerns about calls which seemed misleading or suspicious. Phone Telstra on 1800 260 270 to report or raise a concern about a rogue telemarketer or hoax call.Telstra

Small Farms ConferenceFarmstyle (www.farmstyle.com.au) is a website focused on providing specialist advice and information to the small farm/hobby farm community in Australia. Farmstyle is holding its inaugural Australian Small Farms Conference, targeted at existing or intending small farm owners, on the weekend of 10 -11 August at the University of Western Sydney’s Richmond campus located in the picturesque Hawkesbury Valley. The theme for the conference is ‘Road maps to successful small farming and country living’. Further details on www.smallfarmsconference.com.au or contact Roger Martyn ph 0431 879 196 or email [email protected]. Roger Martyn

FundraiserBangalow Public School and Bangalow Community Child Care Centre are creating a 256 page quality cookbook as a fundraiser to be released this October. We are looking to tell the story of Bangalow through food. If you would like to contribute a food- related story or recipe, we

would love to hear from you. Please contact Lara Hayes at [email protected]

Street Stall for East TimorOn Friday, 10 May, we held a street stall in Bangalow to raise money to help educate the children of East Timor. This is the seventh year we have held this stall and each time the generosity of the Bangalow people absolutely astounds us. I would like to give them a very big thank you. Each year we raise over $1000 and this year we raised $1674, an amazing amount! The money has been forwarded to Mary MacKillop International. For information go to www.mmi.org.au The raffle winners were 1st prize Vi Hill, 2nd prize Marie Flick, 3rd prize Mavis Jackson. Jan Lang

The Little Art ShopThere have been some big changes at The Little Art shop as the framing service has now been sold. In its place you’ll find great party supplies, unique stationery and gifts. I would like to thank the Bangalow community for the support shown to me in the difficult months since Chris’s passing. Georgie Ward


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Since moving from Victoria to Bangalow Hannah Ross’s life could be described as one of oscillation, moving to and fro overseas and interstate following the demands of her work and that of her partner Jason. Having worked as a journalist with The Northern Star for some years Hannah took up a position with Every Cloud Productions, working with the team that created the locally-filmed drama East of Everything. Deb Cox and Fiona Eagger were developing their next

project and Hannah’s first job was to create a list of Australian crime novels that could be adapted for the screen.

“I had never read crime but my dad is a publisher and loves the crime genre. He suggested the Phryne Fisher books by Kerry Greenwood, so they went onto the list,” Hannah said.

This was the genesis of Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries, which Every Cloud Productions produced for the ABC in 2011.

Helen Johnston continues her New Horizons series with a profile of journalist and television all-rounder, Hannah Ross.

The production saw Hannah and her family move to Melbourne for a year and she loved the experience of being involved in what turned out to be such a successful and stylish series. Further work in Melbourne was in the offing but the call of home to Bangalow was too strong.

Last year she worked on the upcoming series soon to be aired on the ABC, The Gods of Wheat Street. This is a family drama set in Casino but mostly filmed in Coraki. Hannah was the co-ordinator of the art department, which is responsible for designing and creating the show’s sets and props. She feels this job was a perfect match for her creative skills and she is hoping a second series will materialise.

Taking a bit of a break after a frantically busy year Hannah reflects that she would love to work more in television but it is a tough industry unless you are prepared to travel afar. She has lots of ideas for screen projects and is always open to opportunities but thinks it is vital to balance family and career. With her children Wilhemena, 10 years old and Magnus, seven, at the Bangalow School she helps out with the reading program and does her bit for fund raising. The family live near the sports fields and all participate in various local sports, plus they share a love of getting down to the beach and into the surf.

She says Bangalow is an amazingly supportive, close-knit community that feels like home, especially as her sister Rebecca also lives here. However, occasionally it has been good to come and go and enjoy adventures in the big wide world outside our local paradise.

Jason, Magnus, Wilhemena and Hannah Ross

JUNE 2013 9

In Paul Whiting’s case, it should read ‘Jobs’ because he has had many, and the ‘person’ has been evolving since leaving Manly Boys’ High. He found his first job, and the one in which he stayed longest, and left school the next day to start work. It was with a customs agency in the city and Paul stayed there for seventeen years. He acquired skills in the range of services his company required, but a trip to the Snowy region for long service leave led to the first change. He became manager of a ski lodge for one winter, and returned to Sydney to become the assistant manager of the Uniting Church conference centre, Naamaroo. After another stint at the snow he became Manager of Camp Drewe, a Presbyterian conference centre at Lennox Head where he stayed for five years. His interest in wild life, and particularly snakes, led to his work at the Macadamia Castle Animal Park. He has been at Bangalow Hardware for the last three years. Some other ‘fill in’ jobs, including a spell in family day care, complete his work record.

Paul is a happy family man, married to Janet, and they have two children, Vincent, 14, and Angela, 12. Their many activities take up Paul’s time but it is time well spent. Vincent is a fine sportsman having represented his school in five different sports, including basketball and league at higher representative levels. Angela was dux of Tintenbar primary, and loves her dancing lessons. Janet divides her time between work as a lab technician, looking after the family and volunteering at Ballina

High School canteen. Paul and Janet love the outback and

have spent time touring with the family, but the many commitments involved in the children’s activities mean that Paul’s membership of the Four Wheel Drive club hasn’t been renewed. There will be time for more touring later. Australian wildlife is one of Paul’s great loves. In particular he is interested in snakes, having gained a reptile keepers’ licence and having been a member of Northern Rivers Wildlife Carers where he gave lectures on handling snakes. His personal collection is only about a dozen snakes at the moment but he has had as many as 70 in the past. One of his volunteering jobs was to assist people having problems with snakes around their house. He’s a handy man to know on the hot summer days.

Paul’s next great passion is for motor

bikes including classics. He has owned a bike ever since he was 19. At present he owns a Harley-Davidson Electra Glide and a Honda cx650. The latter is 30 years old but it is in excellent roadworthy condition. He will be seeking its registration as a classic bike in the near future.

Paul’s parents were regular churchgoers and the family went with them. In his working life, Paul was associated with both Anglican and Presbyterian Conference Centres, and his own family continues to attend church regularly. Some years ago, however, a heart attack focussed his attention and he felt the need for some deeper knowledge of his faith. The Anglican and Presbyterian churches offered a course in Theology which could be studied part time by correspondence. This course is offered by the Timothy Partnership through the Australian College of Theology. Paul has entered this course despite his long lay-off from study and his enthusiasm keeps him going. He hadn’t written an essay since his schooldays so this was one skill he needed to pick up. With practice and dedication he has improved and three years into the course he has earned credits for his assignments. He has advanced to the stage where he can conduct services when a minister is absent. In the near future he will be conducting services in two local parishes.

With his family commitments, his work in the hardware store, his involving hobbies, and his enthusiasm for his theological studies, Paul has a busy but fulfilling life helping others.

This month’s Person Behind the Job is Paul Whiting, sales attendant at Bangalow Hardware. Don Brown reports.

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Join Dangerously Poetic Press for a Madhatters’ Poetry and Music Tea Party on Sunday, 23 June from 3-5 pm at the Bangalow Heritage House. Two distinguished visiting poets will be featured along with scintillating harmonies from our singers. Local poets are invited to an open reading competition, our Poetry Lamb.

All the way from Melbourne, Ross Donlon is a widely published poet and a winner of international poetry competitions. He has read at festivals in Australia, the Wenlock Poetry Festival in England and in Ireland. He was awarded the Dorothy Hewett Flagship Fellowship by Varuna Writers Centre in 2009 and will be poet in residence at the Castlemaine Art Gallery for the centenary in 2013. Extracts from his latest book, The Blue Dressing Gown, will be broadcast on RN’s Poetica in late June this year.

John Carey, from Sydney, is an ex-teacher of French and Latin and a former actor. He has been widely published in magazines and journals, in The Best Australian Poetry 2009

and Best Australian Poems 2011. He has recently read from his latest book, One Lip Smacking in Castlemaine, Melbourne and Newcastle and will be reading as part of the group “Harbour City Poets” at the 2013 Sydney Writers Festival.

The talented Brandolini family will delight us with their harmonies and original lyrics. The Three Little Sisters have recently wowed the audiences at both the Mullum and the New Brighton Markets with older brother, Gabriel and sister, Cecilia

in a Brother- Sister duet. Gabriel and Cecilia, as one of the joint winners in the Tweed Battle of the Bands 2012 received overwhelming accolades of praise, with all judges unanimously describing this brother- sister act as absolutely beautiful and incredibly entertaining.

“It’s like being transported to another realm of music composition with velvet rich harmonies, captivating acoustic guitar, piano, viola and ukulele plus metaphor- rich lyrics”.

Cecilia, at 15 years, has been rated as the Best Voice in Byron. Gabriel has

a three octave full voice range that is rare indeed and has been compared to a protégé Anthony Greene from Circa Survive.

The open reading theme is a touch of madness and local poets are invited to bring three printed copies of a poem of 40 lines or less for a Poetry Lamb. This is our version of a softer, gentler

slam. The visiting poets have agreed to be the judges. Win $50 for the poem on the theme that works best both on the page and in performance.

Sweet and savoury treats will be served by the Bangalow Heritage House along with a variety of teas. All are welcome to join in the fun for $15/12 for DP members. This includes refreshments. Laura Shore


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away with words

A Touch of MAdness

The Three Little Sisters. All photos by Patrick Hetherington

The Husband’s Secret by Liane MoriartyI decided to read this book despite the negativity I was feeling towards it. Wrong cover, wrong title and definitely too many “What would you do ...” questions on the back cover! But you know that you are reading an enjoyable book when your day is scattered with little thoughts of getting back to it. There is a cast of well formed characters in this carefully constructed story which is mainly situated in Sydney’s North Shore. The story is set in current times and starts with

Cecilia accidentally discovering an envelope amongst her husband’s tax records. It says: “For my wife, Cecilia Fitzpatrick. To be opened only in the event of my death”. Should she open it? In Melbourne, Felicity and Will have just disclosed to Tess that they have fallen in love – the only problem being that Will is Tess’ husband and Felicity is her best friend – what would you do? I’m not able to tell you much about the story; suffice to say that it did leave me asking a lot of questions – particularly with the ending the author chose! I don’t want to categorise this novel as Chick Lit because it was a lot better than that. Carolyn Adams – Bookworms & Papermites

Ross Donlon

John Carey

11JUNE 2013

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local events

bangalow lions billycart derbyPerfect weather, great food, a large crowd and record entries of 252 carts made this another fabulous Derby Day in Bangalow. congratulations to all the brave racers. First place winners were:Juniors Traditional 5-7-year-olds: Jack Dodd8 – 11-year-olds: Mabel and Georgia12 – 15-year-olds: Max and ChristianJuniors Homegrown5 – 7-year-olds: Arron Middleton8 – 11-year-olds: Jarrod Middleton12 – 15-year-olds: JeremyTag Team: Tony and Lance Novelty: GraemeMothers: Louise MiddletonSchools Challenge: Bangalow Public SchoolCelebrity: Tex PerkinsOpen Traditional: Andrew from Dunoon AutomotiveOpen Homegrown: Jarrod Middleton(What a lot of Middletons!)Many thanks to:The organisers – Tony Heeson, Bangalow Lions, Libby Lund-McDonald, the Mad Hatters from the school and many more.The sponsors – Baulderstone Pty Ltd, Bangalow Cellars, Bangalow Hotel, Byron Shire Council, Bangalow Foodworks, Piccadilly Park, Elders Real Estate Bangalow, Feros Care, Eden Country Store, Brookfarm, Bangalow Limousines, M.E.T.Transport, Richmond Waste, Summerland Credit Union, Coopers Shoot Orchards, Mullumbimby Printworks, Tom Hogan, Seesaw signs. The volunteers, who worked from dawn to dusk to ensure the day, and the billycarts, ran smoothly and safely. Eds Photos by Shani Millerwww.yellowfieldphotography.com

JUNE 2013 1313JUNE 2013

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www.gnfrealestate.com.au

In the week leading up to the Bangalow Billy Cart Derby l spoke with Libby Lund-McDonald, the Event and Celebrity Coordinator for this years derby.

Previous events coordinated by Libby have been focused on fashion so she jumped at the chance to add variety to her portfolio of events. “I was very excited to be taking on this project for the Bangalow community,” said Libby.

Libby enlisted some big name celebrities including Pete Murray and Tex Perkins to be in the line up at the starting grid following the street parade. She also devised a new race named Festival Challenge. This race had representatives from other local events - Bluesfest, Splendour in the Grass, The Byron Writers Festival and the Sample Food Festival.

Libby is also a busy mum of four sons - Jacob (17), Isaac (15), Oliver (9) and Charlie (5). She said, “They’re really pleased I’ve taken on billycarts rather than fashion”. Oliver and Charlie raced in the derby for the first time.

Libby lives with her family in Tintenbar and she has been a local to the area for the past thirteen years. She grew up on the

NSW Central Coast. This is where Libby’s mother Denise Lund founded a successful modeling agency, deportment and grooming school. Libby started teaching grooming and deportment at her mothers’ company. She literally grew up around fashion events. “I’ve been attending events from the time l could walk,” said Libby.

Libby studied at the University of

Technology Sydney and completed an Executive Certificate in Event Management. Due to her extensive history in the fashion industry Libby was approached to run her own grooming and deportment school on the NSW North Coast. Libby founded the Grace School of Deportment and Grooming.

The school not only runs modelling courses in the area, it also focuses on building confidence, poise and self-esteem. Fashion parades, photo shoots and graduations are the usual events Libby coordinates in conjunction with her business.

Libby for the most part runs her business from home. She is active in coordinating the school’s courses and also attends events her students are involved in around Australia. One of her students, Liberty Bennett, recently won the title Miss Country Girl Australia and has just been signed with Chic Model Management, Miranda Kerr’s founding agent.

“Event management is something l am really passionate about and really love doing,” said Libby.

The Bangalow community thanks you Libby for a job well done. Andrea Sturgeon


www.bangalow.com14 BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT

people about town

from fashion to crashin’Elizabeth Lund-McDonald joined the Billycart Derby team this year as events co-ordinator.

15JUNE 2013

Health & Wellbeing

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The vast majority of us lead largely sedentary lives with just occasional bursts of activity. Sitting at a desk or behind a wheel for eight hours a day, five days a week, is not compensated for adequately by two trips to the gym and a long walk once a week. We all need to be as active as we can, as often as we can, every day of every week. Humans were designed to be active – it’s our genetic imperative. If we ignore that imperative, we get sick and eventually we get so sick that we die prematurely.

So, how much exercise is ‘enough’? The Australian government, through the Department of Health and Ageing, has put together the National Physical Activity Guidelines. These guidelines recommend the following: l At least 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity on most, preferably all, days. l If you can, some regular, vigorous activity for extra health and fitness.

So, in other words, you should increase your heart rate and your breathing rate every day, for 30 minutes. This doesn’t have to be continuous; it can be accumulated in 10 – 15 minute grabs. But it needs to be every

day. Moderate intensity activity can be gauged by the ‘talk test’ - if you can still comfortably talk in whole sentences whilst exercising then this would be classed as ‘ m o d e r a t e ’ intensity.

‘ V i g o r o u s ’ activity makes you huff and puff - talking in full sentences between breaths becomes difficult. For best results,

this type of activity should be carried out for a minimum of around 30 minutes, three to four days a week and it will yield greater health and fitness benefits.

However, before you rush out and run up to the lighthouse, please be sure to read this cautionary advice, which must be heeded:

Although there’s no age barrier to carrying out vigorous activity, medical advice is recommended for those who have

been previously inactive, who have heart disease, have close relatives with heart disease, or who have other major health problems. Vigorous activity in pregnancy is not recommended without strict medical supervision.

Warm-up, cool-down, stretching and a gradual build-up from an inactive level are also recommended with vigorous activity, in line with most recommended fitness training programs. (National Physical Activity Guidelines for Adults, Aust Dept of Health and Ageing, Canberra. 1999 & 2005)

When planning your exercise, be sure to include cardiovascular activity (where you increase your heart and respiration rates), strength training, mobility and flexibility exercises and balance training. If you are not sure where to start, it might be worth seeing an exercise professional (a fitness trainer or exercise physiologist) to get you started in a safe and sensible way. Checking in with them every four to six weeks will help to keep you on track too.

For more information, visit www.healthyactive.gov.au.

“With the possible exception of diet, we know of no single intervention with greater promise than physical exercise to reduce the risk of virtually all chronic diseases simultaneously.” (Booth et al, Journal of Applied Physiology, 2000)

Surely, if physical exercise were a pill, it would be the biggest seller in the world! Paula Todd, Reg’d Fitness Trainer

are you getting enough?health and wellbeing

Are you getting enough ...? I’m talking about exercise!

JUNE 2013 17

health and wellbeing

Hendra virus is a serious threat to humans and horses. It is carried by flying foxes and can be transmitted from flying foxes to horses, causing a deadly disease which can then spread to people or other animals in close contact with the infected horse. It is known that flying foxes in the Northern Rivers carry Hendra virus. There is a significant risk to horse owners and horses in our area. The good news is that there are steps you can take to reduce the risk to humans and horses.Hendra virus can cause a wide range of symptoms in horses. Hendra virus infection should be considered in any sick horse where the cause of illness is unknown and especially if there is an acute onset of illness, fever, increased heart rate, depression, shifting weight from one leg to another and rapid deterioration associated with either respiratory or neurological signs or sudden death. If you suspect that your horse may have Hendra virus, please keep animals and people away from the horse and call your vet immediately.Reducing the risk of Hendra infection in horses:l Vaccinate your horse against Hendra virus. l Don’t place horse feed and water under trees.l Cover feed and water with a shelter so they can’t be contaminated from above.l Don’t leave food lying about that could attract flying foxes e.g. apples, carrots and molasses.l Inspect paddocks regularly and identify trees that are flowering or fruiting.l Remove horses from paddocks where fruiting or flowering trees have attracted flying foxes.l If horses can’t be removed from the paddock, erect a fence to keep horses from grazing under the trees.l If these measures are not practical, consider stabling horses or removing them from the paddock before dusk and overnight, when flying foxes are most active.l Clean up any fruit debris under the trees

before horses are returned to the paddock.l Establish routine hygiene and biosecurity measures when handling horses and managing horse properties.

Vets recommend vaccinating horses against Hendra virus because there is a significant risk to people handling horses in this area. The consequences of Hendra virus are devastating because infection will result in the death of your horse. Hendra virus has killed four out of seven people that have caught the virus. Clubs and events may make vaccination an entry requirement to protect members and entrants from horse to human or horse to horse transmission. Vaccination ensures your horse can compete without any problems. Vaccination involves two injections three weeks apart. Some local vets are holding special vaccination events to encourage vaccination.

See the Hendra virus information pack for horse owners by Biosecurity Queensland for more information. http://www.daff.qld.gov.au/4790_20718.htmLyssavirusLyssavirus has been recently diagnosed in a horse for the first time. This is of great concern because of the new risk to people handling horses. Lyssavirus is a rare virus that is similar to the rabies virus and is carried by bats. It causes a fatal inflammation of the brain. Humans are at risk of contracting Lyssavirus from being bitten or scratched by microbats and flying foxes. We do not yet know if horses can transmit Lyssavirus to people. It is important that people and horses are kept away from bats. Only people who have been vaccinated against rabies should handle bats.

Flying foxes and microbats are protected species. They are important to the preservation of eucalypt and rainforests through pollinating and spreading seeds. Attempts to cull bats are illegal, ineffective and could make the problem worse by further stressing them and causing increased excretion of Hendra virus or Lyssavirus. Dr Megan Kearney, Vitality Vetcare

17JUNE 2013

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away with words

soul surfingBy Dave Stirling from the Bangalow Writers Group. Enjoy, and watch out for God’s waves.

I think there is a God. Listen to Handel’s Largo, or Telemann’s Concerto for Trumpet and Orchestra and then tell me there’s no such thing as a soul. Or ABBA’s Dancing Queen.

But it’s not just music. Think of a breathtaking scene, or a wedge-tailed eagle, or an unexpectedly profound connection with another person. That’s got to be more than just a shot of dopamine. That’s got to be soul!

Recently I was surfing at Wategos when I noticed a couple of waves break way out the back, seemingly half way to Julian Rock. So I paddled to where I reckoned I’d seen them, smug in the assurance that I’d be the only one there. I waited expectantly for the next set. And waited, and waited.

“What the hell am I doing way out here?” I eventually asked myself. I was about to do the paddle of shame, when God sent me a wave. A beauty it was. A big rolling swell, just beginning to crumble at the top. I grabbed the chance with both hands and took off on it. As I rode down the wave, it began to hollow out and lo, I was on the best wave I’d had in a very long time. My soul began to soar. As I screamed towards the beach I shouted, “Suck on this, losers!” to all those surfers who had been watching me flatline way out the back. Suddenly the wave, God’s wave, reared up over a bit of a sandbank. It sucked me up into the lip and slammed me down hard into the trough, knocking the wind out of me. It seems that He is not all that enamoured of smart-arses. “Thank you, God,” I spluttered, “for giving me the gift of humility.”

But I reckon He’s got a sense of humour as well. Way back in the’60s, my mate Robbo and I were surfing at Rosedale Beach on the south coast, and we were lucky enough to have it to ourselves which wasn’t so unusual back then. The best waves were to be had on the southern section of the beach known as Nuns’ Beach. In those days, of course, there were no leg ropes and we got pretty

good at hanging onto our boards when a wipe out was imminent.

We were thoroughly enjoying ourselves when down the track from up on the headland came a bunch of nuns to go for a swim, which they often did, hence the name of the beach. Robbo and I had a big laugh because they were all wearing great, heavy woollen, neck to knee swimsuits, obviously designed by some trendy cardinal at The Vatican House of Fashion.

Well, they may have had trust in God, but they didn’t trust sharks too much, so they decided to swim directly in front of where we were surfing. This gave Robbo and me the irrits, because we had to be extra careful.

We were doing really well until Robbo jagged a cracker of a wave which lit up his soul. But God must have been in a playful mood because He flicked Robbo off the board and sent it plunging and bouncing along in front of the white water straight at the gaggle of nuns. Terrified of decapitation, they crossed themselves vigorously and shrieked, “God Almighty!” and “Saints preserve us!” and other such entreaties as they dived for cover beneath the waves. But God was only having a laugh, because he flipped the board right over their heads to wash up harmlessly on the beach.

Now Robbo was a good Catholic school boy who’d had more floggings than he cared to remember, so he thought it prudent to hang about way out where he’d come off, rather than face the wrath of traumatised nuns on the beach. So we floated around, both of us hanging onto my surfboard until the nuns moved away from the board and began to head back up the hill.

Robbo was fearful that the nuns may have done something to his board in retribution, or at the very least condemmed it to purgatory but when he got to it, there was a Virgin Mary medal stuck in the wax on the deck. It appeared that all had been forgiven.

Hemp, or to use its botanical name, Cannabis sativa, has a multitude of uses: as clothing - the first Levi jeans were made of it - alleviating pain and stimulating appetite, making sturdy backpacks and iPad covers, and, assuming elevated levels of THC, getting us high.

In seed, oil or powdered form, hemp can also be a valuable, high-protein food supplement, and, as Bangalow-based Hemp Foods Australia is proving, form the basis of a successful business.

But the one thing shared by all hemp variations, low and high THC alike, is that Australian governments seem to run a mile from sanctioning their use.

Hence it came as a pleasant surprise when managing director Paul Benhaim learned that the NSW Department of Industry, Innovation and Investment would provide advice and assistance, for which read grant money, the amount unspecified, to help fund new processing equipment and hire extra employees.

“The performance of Hemp Foods Australia will hopefully be a story repeated over and over in NSW as the Government’s incentives and strategies become established,” gushed Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional Infrastructure and Services, Andrew Stoner.

National Party colleague Don Page, Minister for the North Coast and the State Member for Ballina, called Hemp Foods “a prime example” of the NSW Government’s success in helping regional businesses move forward and boost employment.

“Jobs are always a priority in NSW,

especially in the bush, and this Government is working hard with bright initiatives to provide them,’’ Mr Page said.

With the hemp seed processing machinery roaring in the background, Mr Benhaim told Heartbeat that the employment projections for the business rested currently with the overseas interest shown in the company’s products - hemp seeds for snacking, hemp protein powder, and hemp oil.

“It is currently illegal to sell these products for human consumption in Australia, despite being approved in almost every western country, and Asia,” he said, clearly annoyed.

As a result, and pending approval by Food Standards Australia New Zealand, and Canberra’s subsequent endorsement, ludicrous sleight of hand is required with the marketing.

The mail order link on the company’s website explains that, “We manufacture and sell hemp oil, hemp seeds and hemp protein for external use only (cosmetic ingredients)… we can sell you product on the explicit understanding that we are not selling to you as a food and that you agree to this… We will not ask you for proof as we

trust you will do the right thing.”The hemp seed packet reads, “Best

Food Grade – Not Suitable for Human Consumption in AU/NZ Only.”

The firm’s website (www.hempfoods.com.au) includes a petition to the federal government advocating support for the licensing of low-THC hemp foods in Australia.

While reluctant for commercial reasons to say what tonnage of hemp seeds comes into its Bangalow factory, which has just been given a $230,000 upgrade and is already at near capacity, Mr Benhaim revealed that most supply comes from abroad (notably Canada), thanks to a permit to import. “A significant amount of seed is also sourced from western NSW and farmers around Mullumbimby,” he added.

The enterprising hemp food promoter, who once worked with the Body Shop’s founder, the late Anita Roddick, on hemp cosmetics, said he expected employment to rise from the current level to around 30, plus contractors, within a couple of years.

Music to the ears of the State MPs, and even more so if Canberra decided that hemp food is also suitable to eat. Robin Osborne

JUNE 2013 19

to eat or not to eat

Hemp foods are healthy, just don’t eat them

Paul Benheim of Hemp Foods

19JUNE 2013


in the garden

PruningRegularly remove spent flowers or cut flowers 5mm above an outward pointing leaf node. This will promote more flowering. Remove dead or diseased wood during that time. All prunings should be taken away and disposed of. In the subtropics, due to our long flowering season, Hybrid tea and floribunda should be hard pruned in February. This will give the plants a rest when humidity is often at its highest. By March the roses will be in bloom again. Prune again in August and spray lime sulphur to kill fungal spores. Do not prune until your bush is mature, three years old or 900 to 1200mm tall, as roses need to develop a certain critical mass before they are vigorous. To determine the height, take it down 600mm lower than the height you want it to be at the end of the season. Remove all the dead and broken canes as well as the spindly little ones. Remove canes that extend to the middle of the bush. The aim is to let air and light in. Prune the canes you wish to keep to an outward facing bud.Disease and pest controlThe main problems of roses are:Fungi: Black spot, powdery mildew, Downey mildew, Botritis on petals.

Black spot needs to have water on the leaves for it to germinate. Air circulation is important to prevent it. Remove and dispose of infected leaves. For black spot spray weekly with 21g of full cream powdered milk to 6Lt of water. Prevention is better than cure. This is why air flow is of the upmost importance. A preventative spray is as follow: Use 1 tablespoon of baking soda and 2.5 tablespoons of horticultural oil or a few drops of dishwashing liquid in 4.5L of water and spray weekly. Seaweed foliar fertilizers, used every 14 days, will change the pH of the leaves making it harder for the spores to attach to the leaves. Lime sulphur used on leafless roses in the dormant season is a suitable measure against fungi.Insects: Aphids, red spider mites, scalesAvoid nitrogen rich fertilizers. Use seaweed fertilizer to harden the foliage every 14 days. Use sticky yellow traps or pyrethrum. Use white oil for scales. Use predatory mites which you can obtain from Bio-Protection P/L, PO Box 35, Warwick, Qld 4370. Phone (07) 4666-1592. If Predatory Mites are used, it is important to use sprays that are not toxic to them. Companion planting: society garlic repels pests. Plants to attract and feed beneficial

insects such as parasitic wasps and hoverflies include sweet Alice (Alyssum), coriander, dill, Gypsophylla and lucerne.Rose varieties suitable for the subtropicsThere are a large number of varieties that are suitable for our area. Due to the limited space I will mention only a few. When choosing varieties, look for disease resistance (D) and perfume (F).Hybrid Tea RosesAotearoa: Soft pink, rather tall and not over vigorous. Will take at least two years to show its best. Has a white ‘sport’ called Full Sail. Both have a good disease resistance. Very fragrant. F/DCity of Newcastle Bicentennial: Pure red and highly fragrant. The flowers do not burn even on the hottest day. Very disease resistant. Hard to find. F/DDiamond jubilee: Buff yellow. Very scented. vigorous and disease resistant F/DDuet: Light pink, darker reverse. Mild tea fragrance. Blooms in flushes throughout the season. Habit:Upright. Glossy, dark green, leathery foliage. Height of 100 to 165 cm. Growing: Vigorous. Very disease resistant. F/DFloribunda RosesEvelyn Fison: Red. Mild fragrance. Double (17-25 petals) bloom form. Blooms in flushes throughout the season. Habit: Height

Rose cultivation in the sub-tRopics paRt 2

AA Tues 5.30 Richard 0466 885 820Angling Club Outing 2nd Sat Ray 6687 1139Aussie Rules Bill 6687 1485Aussie Rules Junior Greg 6687 1231Bangalow Community Alliance (BCA) Terry 6687 2525Bangalow Markets monthly 4th Sun Jeff 6687 1911Bridge Fri 12pm Steve 6688 4585Cancer support 1st Wed 1-4pm Chris 6687 0004Childcare Centre 7.45am-6pm Kerry 6687 1552Cricket Club Anthony 0429 306 529Co-dependents Anonymous Sat 4pm Gye 0421 583 321CWA 2nd Wed Claire 6687 0557Garden Club 1st Wed Hazel 6687 8409 George the Snake Man George 0407 965 092Groundforce Georgia 6629 1189Historical Society/Museum/Tea Room Wendy 6687 2183Land/RiverCare 1st Sat working bee Liz 6687 1309Lawn Bowls, Men Wed & Sat 1pm Gerry 6687 1142Lawn Bowls,Women Tues 9am Dot 6687 1246Lions Club 2nd/4th Tues 7pm Roger 6687 0543Mufti Bowls 3rd Sat 9am Lynne 6687 1823Netball Club train 4.15 Thurs Rachel 6687 0402Op Shop 10-3pm Sat 10-12 6687 2228Parks Committee 3rd Tues 7.30pm Jan 6684 7214Playgroup Tues 10am Cyndi 6687 0640Police Peta 6687 1404Pony Club Kim 6687 8007

Pool Trust 3rd Wed Peta 6688 4236Poultry Club Hec 6687 1322Progress Association Ian 6687 1494Quilters 2nd,4th Thurs Leonie 6687 1453Red Cross monthly - 1st Fri Dot 6687 1246Rugby Union Richard 0415 773 064S355 C’mtee Heritage House Don 6687 1897Scouts Tues 6.30pm Jenny 6687 2047Show Society Karen 6687 1033Soccer Club 2nd Mon 6pm Nick 6687 1607Social Golf every 2nd Sun Brian 6684 7444Sports Association 2nd Wed bi-monthly Brian 6687 1024Sporting Field bookings Nick 6687 1607St Vincent de Paul Thurs 10-11am/Catholic Hall Tennis Court Hire 6687 1803Writers Group 1st Thurs Simone 6629 1588VENUES A&I Hall Station St Susie 0428 925 472Anglican Hall Ashton St Doug 0418 182 450Bangalow Showgrd Moller Pavilion Karina 6687 1035Sports/Bowling Club Byron St Scott 6687 2741Catholic Hall Deacon St Russell 0423 089 684Coorabell Hall Coolamon Scenic Simon 6684 2888 Newrybar Hall Newrybar Village Ian 6687 8443RSL Hall Station St Charlotte 6687 2828Scout Hall Showgrounds Jenny 6687 2047Heritage House Deacon St Don 6687 1897

useful information and contact numbers

JUNE 2013 21

Rose cultivation in the sub-tRopics paRt 2

of 70 cm. Width of 60 cm. Growing: Very disease resistant. F/DHannah Gordon: White or white blend, pink edges. White with dark pink to light red petal edges. Mild fragrance. Blooms in flushes throughout the season. Habit: Tall, upright. Height of 150 to 215 cm. Width of up to up to 65 cm. Growing: Vigorous. Very disease resistant F/DMargaret Merrill: White flowers which are larger than most floribundas. Very fragrant and not susceptible to disease in this climate. A rose that spreads a little so it needs a bit of room to move. Well worth growing as it always looks healthy and produces masses of fragrant flowers. As good as Iceberg. F/DModern Shrub RosesMolineux: The rich yellow flowers are

produced in abundance and have a strong tea fragrance. The bush is very disease resistant, producing even upright growth. 1.2m. F/DAustralian Bred RosesOur Rosamond: Silvery pink with a darker flush and on occasions a soft self pink. The beautifully formed show blooms are produced on long strong stems. Plant habit is medium tall with glossy dark green foliage. Good disease resistance. Pleasant perfume. F/DClimbing RosesBlossom time: Pink, darker reverse. Strong fragrance. Blooms in flushes throughout the season. Habit:Height of 120 to 455 cm. Growing:Vigorous. Shade tolerant. Very mildew resistant. F/D Patrick Regnault (MAIH)

21JUNE 2013

Lessons &Workshops Painting &

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LANDSCAPE TREES - SHRUBS – HEDGES

6628 1898 (24 hours)

The winter months are the perfect time to turn unused garden beds into productive areas. Soils in high rainfall areas are generally low in essential nutrients and minerals used by plants to thrive and produce a good crop and fight off pest and disease.

It is important to attend to the needs of the plant and to try to get the balance right. To achieve a sustainable result it is important to give the plant food via the soil. This should include lots of organic matter to enrich the soil and a small amount of chemical fertilizer to make sure the plant gets the nutrients it needs to grow. The general rule of good organic gardening is whatever you harvest off the bed should be replaced with organic matter. This will enrich the soil and bring all the good soil biology back. This will take a little time to achieve but will reward your efforts very well.

Rita Martin, Eden Country Store

Tips for the vegetable garden for June l Transplant cabbage seedlingsl Seed peas for harvest in nine to 11 weeksl Seed silver beet – Try the multicoloured varietiesl Transplant or seed beetrootl Prune deciduous fruit trees Patrick Regnault, Interactive Landscapes

GARdEN TipS

A four-year-old boy scoots past on a tricycle grinning widely, in hot pursuit of another boy peddling furiously, shrieking with laughter.

Parents sip tea and stand in groups of two or three, discussing sleep – or lack thereof – and sharing tips for keeping all the balls in the air at once.

Out the back, the sun is shining and children practise taking turns on a colourful plastic slide. A neighbourhood cow pokes its nose through the fence and gives a snort.

Welcome to Bangalow Playgroup.For over 20 years, Bangalow Playgroup

has been offering a weekly respite for local parents and carers of children under school age. “Playgroup is a wonderful opportunity for parents with young children to meet and socialise in a safe and supportive environment,” says Sue Craigie, coordinator and treasurer at Playgroup.

“We meet every Tuesday morning – except school and public holidays – between 9.30 -11.30am at the Bangalow Anglican Hall in Ashton Street,” says the Bangalow mum. Parents and carers register with Playgroup NSW and pay $3 per visit to cover the hall hire costs.

Playgroup offers indoor and outdoor spaces for children to explore. Parent organisers set up each area with a range of age appropriate toys and activities including trains, ride-ons, role play and dress-ups, Playdoh, craft, slides and more.

Boisterous, timid, friendly, you’ll find kids of all sorts at a Playgroup session and something to suit the mood and interests of each child. Tea and coffee are provided and

each week parents bring a plate of morning tea to share, from rice crackers and carrot sticks to delicious homemade muffins.

It’s a fun social experience for children and carers alike, and something children remember fondly as they head off to ‘big school’, something many of the current Playgroup regulars will do shortly.

“The current body of Playgroup parents have children moving on, so we need new parents to put their hand up and help run Playgroup to ensure this vital community group keeps its doors open and benefits many more families in years to come,” says Sue.

More than just a place to play, Bangalow Playgroup is an extension of the amazing inclusive community we are so fortunate to be part of. Parents get just as much out of the Playgroup experience. The friendships formed through the common experience of raising young children – tears, toilet training, tantrums and all – are enduring.

Parents of new babies and those new to the area can access a wealth of local

knowledge and an informal support network that makes those early days as a new parent or resident in a new town less stressful and isolating.

“All parents, carers and grandparents caring for children under school age are welcome to come along,” says Sue.

So pencil in a Tuesday to pop in and say hi, and see why Playgroup is, in the words of one four-year-old boy “the awesomest fun.” Sally Schofield


kids having fun


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Photo courtesy Bangalow Playgroup

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It’s all about art this term at Bangalow Public School as the students get ready for their biennial Art Show from 9-10 August at the A&I Hall.

The theme this year is ‘Imagination’ and who better to let theirs run wild than 250 children aged between five and 12. Paint, glue, cloth, wood and sculpture materials are being bandied about in class as concepts are discussed, ideas born and works commenced. Every child at the school will produce their own piece of art for the show and class members will then collaborate to produce a group piece that will go to auction on opening night.

Steve Hutchinson teaches Year One

and his class has already started on their project in earnest. “We’ve decided to work on individual canvases that will be joined to create one fantastic larger piece to sell at auction,” he said. “There’s lots of colour, lots of paint and lots of fun being had in class at the moment.”

The Bangalow Art Show is a joint fundraiser organised by both the Bangalow Public School and the Bangalow Community Children’s Centre. Opening night, including the auction of collaborative pieces, will be held on Friday, 9 August at the A&I Hall and is an adults only function. On Saturday, 10 August the exhibition will be open to all ages. Lisa Peacock

juSt imAgine...

Newrybar Public School’s annual fireworks and fair is on again Saturday, 15 june. The event will start at 4pm and the fireworks will begin at approximately 7pm. Single admission is $5 and family admission is $10. As this is a family event - parking, pets, alcohol consumption and drug use will not be permitted on school grounds. This is the 30th Fireworks and the Newrybar Public School community can’t wait to shine again.

“Our fireworks night is our annual fundraiser and it allows the P&C to fund extra teachers for our small school along with equipment purchases and excursions etc. With this contribution

from the P&C the children have access to a drama/music teacher and the students will be performing a routine on the night. Its a great family night so come along and enjoy great food and fun for the kids,” said P&C President Katrina Porteus.

Each year the P&C receives amazing donations from the local community. The raffles, tombola and chocolate wheel will be happening and prizes will include donations received.

Raffle prizes this year include two general admission tickets to Splendour in the Grass ($350 value each), accommodation and breakfast at Byron at Byron Resort and Spa ($460 value), accommodation at

Ramada Hotel and Suites Ballina Byron ($245 value), and a Sunday pass to the Byron Writers Festival. The lucky winner of these and the many other prizes to be won on the night could be you!

Children’s rides, stalls, music, a presentation from the students, a huge bonfire and a spectacular fireworks finale are all planned for the evening’s entertainment. There will also be a variety of gastronomic delights to try on the night including Alstonville APEX Club doughnuts, Bangalow Lions Club bbq, homemade lemonade, vegetarian curry, Zentveld’s coffee cart, and home baked cakes. Andrea Sturgeon, P&C Secretary

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Scouts Fly High on Derby DayBangalow Cub Scout group did themselves proud in the 2013 Billycart Derby with standout performances in the 8-11 years traditional races. Roy Czislowski came first in his heats and first in his semi final while William Jordan scored a second in his heat and second in the semi finals. Billycarts were supplied by Scouts with all members

of the 1st Bangalow Cub Scout group having the opportunity to ride the carts at their regular weekly meeting. For more info on our growing Cub and Scout packs call Jenny Holden on 6687 2047 and start training for the 2014 derby! Tristan Bancks

Grey Wolf award for ZoeZoe Pryor has been at Cub Scouts at Brunswick Heads for the last three and a half years and has just completed her Grey Wolf Award. This is only achieved by about 8% of cubs who join. At the time Zoe started Bangalow didn’t have a Cub group, but now with enthusiastic Cub Leaders and great children it is alive and well.

On Tuesday, 21 May she was awarded this badge at the Bangalow Scout Hall and

was then invested into Bangalow Scouts. A big night for her indeed. The Bangalow Scouts were also visited by the Bangalow Cubs, the Brunswick Heads Cubs and some Alstonville Cubs and their leaders on the night. Congratulations Zoe! Eds

June Mystery PicWhere was this taken, and what is it? See our July issue for the answer. Eds


town talk june diary3

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ADFAS: Aboriginal Art

Arts NR grant writing workshop; Garden club meeting

Red Cross meeting; Jive Lounge at the Bowlo

Hendra virus vaccination; Garden club social visit

Dave Ades at the Bowlo

Newrybar fireworks; Lisa Hunt at the Bowlo

Eagles and Credence show at the Bowlo; Flood information deadline

Newrybar movie; Madhatters Poetry and Music Tea Party; Bangalow market

ADFAS: Outsider Art; Red Cross IHL lectures

Business women’s award deadline

Perch Creek band at the Bowlo

Second Hendra vaccination

Farmers Market; 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

HB deadlines: 12(ads) 17(copy)

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Melinda Barlett, Zoe Pryor and Alison Draper

june heartbeat 2013

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