Hearbeat February 2011

Good chookin’: Important information on looking after chooks in the wet, page 8

free ■ FEBRUARY 2011 No.145 ■ CElEBRAtiNg thE liFE ANd timEs oF thE loCAl CommUNitY

return to cinder

The prism of a rainbow is

revealed in the aftermath of

the fire which razed the Urban

Cafe in December. Fire, page 3,

floods and stoic endurance set

the scene for 2011. Australia

Day (pic top) was a bright start.

Great climbing orchid: Glories revealed after clearing out many weeds, page 9

2 BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT

BA

NG

ALO

W’S

H

EAR

TB

EAT www.heartbeat.net.au

PO Box 132 Bangalow NSW 2479Editors: Christobel Munson 6687 2244Stephanie King 6629 1644Email: [email protected] Advertising: Di Martin 6687 2592Email: [email protected]: Niels Arup narup@bigpond net .au

DISCLAIMER. This newsletter is published by Bangalow’s Heartbeat Incorporated PO Box 132 NSW 2479. Hon. Editors Christobel Munson, Stephanie King, 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. Printed by Pristine Publications.

Our sunburnt countryThe sobering events which happened around the country over the Christmas holiday season dampened the normally relaxed early New Year vibe this year. But Australia Day, at the end of January, came as an excellent rallying point where we could focus our energies onto the positive side of life in our beloved land of ‘droughts and flooding rains’. Scarcely a community in the country hasn’t got the hat out for flood survivors.

As ever, the Bangalow Historical Society pulled out the stops to present a fabulous day of celebrations at Heritage House on 26 January, also launching an exhibition (using their new technology) reminding us of the past disasters that have happened in our town. The human spirit survives, even if some of our material possessions do not.

Though the floods missed us this time, that hasn’t always been the case. This time we were indeed ‘lucky little vegemites’, as our intrepid keeper of the rainfall statistics,

Robyn Wright, says.Over the years, this town has also seen its

fair share of fires, and this summer we’ve had a couple of wild ones, documented in these pages. Thanks to all who sent in pics of them. Sorry we couldn’t use them all. So good to know that the life and times of the town continue to be closely monitored.

Observing nature reminds us of the circle of life: birth, life, death. In this edition of Heartbeat, you’ll read about an organic share-farmer, how to protect your chooks during times of heavy rains, a newly discovered rare orchid, restoration of wetlands, mustering cane toads and beautiful trees in bloom, as well as a truckload of community events to start off the new year. Christobel MunsonPS. Oh yes, Happy New Year!PPS. The Heartbeat team is still on the hunt for a capable and efficient organiser/coordinator/editor, who’s keen to get involved with a fabulous volunteer team. Please email [email protected] if you’re interested.

BANGALOW’S HEARTBEAT2

DISCLAIMER. This news-letter is published by Bangalow’s Heartbeat Incorporated PO Box 132 NSW 2479. Hon Editors Stephanie King; Karen Jordan, Hon Sec/Public Officer Terry Adcock. 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.

10am -5pm Mon til Fri

Bangalow Industrial Estate Dudgeons Lane Ph: 6687 2275

www.cchomemakers.com

Kitchen and Bathroom Showroom

Saturday by

appointment

Editorial

Photo Credits. Cover (from top): Australian icons by Christobel Munson; Fire at the Urban by Steve Hayward; Orchids by Judy Baker. This page: Here comes the Rain by Lisa Sharpe. Below: Australia Day and Dot Gill at Heritage House by Judy Baker.

The Australia Day celebration breakfast at Heritage House was very well-attended and a lovely relaxed way to catch up with friends and our fellow citizens.

Highlight of the morning – aside from the delicious food served by the Lions Club – was the presentation to Dot Gill by Rita Cowled, President of the Historic Society. In a charming speech Rita declared Dot a Living Treasure and also our

Local Hero for 2011. Dot has been a tireless worker

for the town and is President of the Red Cross and a long-time stalwart of the CWA. Her passion for her projects is catching, as is her constant

search for more like-minded folk to join up. As she points out, it is a real opportunity to actively contribute to the quality of life in Bangalow – and Australia. Stephanie King

Australia Day celebrations

3FEBRUARY 2011

BangalowThe Hinterland Specialists

19a Byron Street, Bangalow www.eldersbangalow.com.au

6687 1500

For al l your real estate needs . . . come and see us at Elders Bangalow

Urban fire highlights trUe bangalow commUnity spirit

It was only in the aftermath of the fire at the Urban Café on Wednesday 8 December 2010 that the Bangalow community realised how close to catastrophe the town centre had come.

The fire destroyed two businesses outright: the Urban Café and the Millar & More Fashion Boutique, with several adjacent businesses

suffering smoke and water damage.The first reported sighting came from

Richard Rombouts and Steve Dengate at the newsagents. Richard and Steve were sorting the day’s paper deliveries: “Our magazine delivery driver came into the shop. He is an ex-firie and had spotted the smoke and suggested

checking for fire. It was about 5am.“We walked to the corner and noticed smoke

inside the building,” says Richard. “I rang the Byron Bay police and Steve called 000. That way we thought we had all bases covered.”

Richard observed that one firie was treated for smoke inhalation or exhaustion – they had

What an extraordinary end to 2010! Two iconic Bangalow buildings burned to the ground, just before Christmas, and then the rains came. But, life goes on, thanks to a caring and involved community.

febrUary 2011 3

l o c a l n e w s

photographs by lisa sharpe


l o c a l n e w s

4 bangalow’s heartbeat

worked so hard. At the time the firies thought they might lose more buildings and people were evacuated. In the end, though, only two were lost – tragedy though it is – and all was aided by the very heavy rain that later fell.

Michael Malloy, President of the Bangalow Chamber of Commerce, who witnessed the effort to put out the fire said: “If not for the prompt response of the fire brigades, particularly the Bangalow firies, there could have been catastrophic damage to the Bangalow CBD and human casualties. I personally witnessed many acts of bravery and will be making a recommendation to senior fire authorities for the individuals concerned to receive appropriate recognition.

“I do not know the protocol but what I witnessed seemed to go well beyond the normal expectations one would have of fire-fighters in this situation,” Michael said.

“Time and time again they entered the fiercely burning building to the point of exhaustion, heat and smoke stress and, in one case, collapse and an ambulance trip to hospital.”

Captain of the NSW Fire Brigade, Bangalow, Andrew Hill, who attended the fire said the cause was electrical, starting in the back kitchen area in a fuse board.

“The fire took hold midway between the floor and roof and travelled into the roof very quickly,” he said.

“Once a fire is in a roof, it is pretty hard to fight so we were in defence mode, more focused on protecting the buildings and businesses around the fire zone.

“We arrived about 5.45am and it was a pretty intense fire for about two hours. We took a surround and drown approach and waited for the support services to arrive,” he explained.

According to Michael Malloy, the fire fighters were fully supported by the police, ambulance officers and Country Energy staff. “All of the services cooperated as one unit to keep the damage to a minimum.”

Michael also made note of the “well known Bangalow community spirit” which kicked in with a public appeal, raising many thousands of dollars within days of the fire to support the 20 staff that lost their incomes so close to Christmas.

He also thanked other local businesses that generously offered employment to some of the staff suddenly without jobs. “The

process of clearing the site and re-building the businesses will not be easy or quick. It is hoped Byron Shire Council will give prompt and sympathetic treatment to any necessary approvals required.”

Mary O’Connor of Bangalow Real Estate, which administers both properties, was unsure as to when the shops would be rebuilt. “New plans are still to be drawn up, but at the moment I am putting all my energies into co-ordinating the demolition – it is an urgent priority. It has been enormously disappointing and frustrating that it has taken so long to get it going.”

Allie Leo with Stephanie King

Bangalow Fire AppealFollowing the devastating fire in early December that destroyed two businesses in the centre of town, a public appeal raised $14,230. These funds have been distributed to the employees of the Urban Cafe and Millar and More boutique, who lost their incomes just before Christmas.

Thank you to all who donated so readily and quickly and to the other town businesses who offered employment to some of the affected staff.

As a mark of respect and as an opportunity for the community to show thanks, the very brave Fire-fighters, Police, Ambulance and Country Energy personnel who fought the fire (and probably saved half of the Bangalow CBD) will be invited to lead the Grand Parade at this year’s Bangalow Billycart Derby.Michael MalloyPresident, Bangalow Chamber of Commerce

5FEBRUARY 2011

graphic designpublication designillustration

6629 1644 [email protected]

With all the overcast and windy weather of late, wind has seemed a more attractive electricity generator than solar. Hayters Hill farmers, Owen and Julie Trevor-Jones (below), are certainly testing this theory.

As you drive on the back road from Bangalow to the Bay you may have noticed a new wind turbine on the right at Hayters Hill. This was put in by Owen and Julie last December. It is an ideal location as they are very close to the scarp and seem to get the same winds as the Cape. According to Owen, “It was a business decision encouraged by the NSW government guarantee last year of 60c/kilowatt hour produced for the next 10 years. We have quite a high electricity use on the farm, with our sons’ beef and egg businesses, and were also pleased to be able to do a little for the environment. It would be a very different decision today with the 60c/KWH now dropped to 20c.”

The 5KW unit was installed by Rewind

Energy. It is quite an installation, with a 12m tower, set in a concrete base 1.2m square and 1.6 m deep. It delivers three-phase electricity needed for cool rooms. The unit cost around $40,000 and is expected to deliver an average 30 kilowatt hours a day and take

some six years to pay off the capital expense. (The Trevor-Joneses had hoped to put in a 10KW unit, but were too far from the transformer). “It is too early yet to be sure if we are achieving this,” Julie explained. “We had some teething

problems with the metering, but current output is certainly encouraging and in line with our expectations from the wind records at Cape Byron. Six hours of a 30kph wind, or equivalent, should deliver that daily target.”

Local surfies are apparently very happy with the unit. As they drive past, they know the exact wind direction to assist beach selection! The unit is surprisingly quiet, but obviously only suited to farms, with no very close neighbours. Brian Sundstrom

l o c a l c o n c e r n s

FeBrUarY 2011 5

new local wind Generator

At its Annual General Meeting in December the Bangalow Progress Association (BPA) agreed to widen its activities. In future, BPA will try to be a focus and forum for community discussion and resolution on the range of issues facing Bangalow.

Over the past few years BPA members have been concentrating on establishing a skatepark in Bangalow. Many dedicated members of BPA have contributed much time, effort and brain power to this end. Some have also been keen to refurbish and improve the look of the old Bangalow railway station.

Incoming President, Lyle Le Sueur said: “BPA recognises that many new, as well as long-standing, issues have been the

focus of various small resident groups, often with overlapping members.” Such issues include the highway interchange, parking, bicycle paths, footpaths, the Rifle Range Road/Lismore Road intersection and the new development areas. None of these stand alone, nor can they be considered individually. They each have impacts on each other. For example, wherever a skateboard park is sited, it will not be as successful as it should be if there are no path- or cycle-ways to enable skateboarders to get to and from the park safely. Similarly, the new development areas will put pressure on Bangalow’s parking facilities.

BPA will ask Byron Council to use it as

its main point of contact with Bangalow residents and will establish sub-groups of residents to address issues as they emerge. For example, the skatepark sub-committee will continue working with the Sports Association on finalising the location of the skatepark. Another initiative raised at the AGM was seeking a council grant to establish a Bangalow community garden.

BPA will also build closer links with the Chamber of Commerce to ensure both resident and business views are coordinated in presentations to council. In addition to the President, other key BPA Officers for 2011 – elected at the AGM – are Vice President Tony Hart, Secretary Dale Viola and Treasurer Liz Parks. Tony Hart

Bangalow Progress association

niels arup

graphic designpublication designillustration

6629 1644 [email protected]

c o m m u n i t y n o t i c e b o a r d

6 banGaLoW’S Heartbeat

School munch & crunch needs produceEvery Tuesday morning for the last eight years a small band of volunteers has chopped up 60kgs of fresh fruit and vegetables for the students at Bangalow Public School. The students love it and eat the lot!

Following the floods, the price of fresh fruit and vegetables has skyrocketed, but our Munch and Crunch budget has not. We will still be buying from Charlotte’s Market (who generously support us with discount pricing) but wonder if any of our local farmers have any spare produce they would like to donate? Seconds are fine and we are happy to collect. (No nuts please.)

Greg Nash and his team at Coopers Shoot Orchards have been supporting the school in this way for many years and it works well. Please contact me on 6687 2913 or 0428 871 360 if you can help. Lisa Hambling

Queensland Floods Benefit: Mystical PoetryWhen life gets challenging, try poetry for solace and support! Dangerously Poetic will be holding a benefit-reading for the Queensland Flood Relief on Sunday, 6 February, from 1-3pm at St. Kevin’s Catholic Hall in Bangalow. The theme is ‘Rumble with the Spirit’, mystical poetry through the ages; from Rumi to David Whyte and everything in between, words and music to soothe the soul. If you missed his solo show in Byron, here is a chance to hear Elyjah McLeod’s remarkable voice. He will sing and also be a featured reader. Always a treat, maybe you remember him in Jesus Christ Superstar. NIDA-trained actress and voice teacher, Kathryn Riding, will also be a featured reader.

‘Mystica’, a choir based in Ocean Shores and led by Alison Mackay, will

offer their harmonies to amplify the poetry experience. We encourage the public to bring along a favourite poem that lifts your spirits to share in our open reading. Tea and refreshments will be available for purchase. Suggested donation $10, or $8 for Dangerously Poetic members. Everyone welcome! All profits go to the Queensland flood relief. Laura Shore

adFaSAfter our summer recess, ADFAS members and friends are invited to our first lecture of the year – The Treasures of the Silk Road – on Monday 28 March starting at 6.30pm, with a light supper and a glass of wine served afterwards.

Our speaker will be Chris Bradley, an expert in the history of the Middle East and

North Africa. He is also a photographer, film producer, lecturer and tour guide.

We will travel between Xi’an in China along a spectacular route including Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran and Syria and the grand bazaar in Istanbul.

Used between 200AD – when the Chinese developed routes into the west for military purposes – and 1500, the silk roads were cultural bridges as well as trading routes and covered over 10,000kms, forming one of the most important and extensive distribution

systems in the world.The variety of countryside and difficult

terrain, the traders and markets, will be interwoven with the history and culture of the diverse peoples along the route.

The lecture will be enriched with wonderful photos taken by this renowned photographer.

Please join us. Enquiries 0428 925 472 or 6687 2679. Susie Warrick

Groundforce thankyouThe cheerful workers of Groundforce, Bangalow’s town beautification team, would like to publicly thank the Bangalow Chamber of Commerce and Heartbeat for supporting them over the past year. If you’d like to join the team this year you are very welcome. Just turn up on Wednesdays at 8.30am or ring Georgia Webb on 6629 1189. Georgia Webb

Garden club Margaret Byrne will chair the first meeting for 2011 on Wednesday 2 February at 1.30pm in the Anglican Hall. Margaret joined the club in 2002 and has served as secretary and social secretary before stepping up to be president. Fifty people attended the Christmas lunch and Margaret hopes a similar number of members will attend the meetings and Saturday social outings this year. All garden lovers are welcome to come along to the meetings which are always held on the first Wednesday of the month. Helen Johnston

CWA Handicraft and cookery dayOn Thursday 24 February, between 10am and 2pm, the Far North Coast group of the Country Womens Association is holding a Handicraft and Land Cookery Day at Bangalow’s A&I Hall. Come along and see handicraft and cooking produced by CWA women, as well as the general public.


MOBILE LIBRARY

At Bangalow School every Saturday morning

9.30am -11.30am

Heritage House Tearoom

open 10am to 3pm Wednesday - Saturday

Booking (p) 6687 2183

RF Byrne EarthmovingConstruction & Paving

Phone Dick on 6687 8418 or 0412 831 944549 Friday Hut Rd Brooklet 2479

Access Roads Driveway & Car Parks

Plant Hire - grader etc Erosion Control

Hot Mix & Bitumen Seal

February 2011 77FEBRUARY 2011

North Coast Bookkeeping ServicesFor all your Bookkeeping requirements including BAS, QuickBooks or MYOB

ph: 6687 2604 Ian Holden fax: 6687 28937 Rosewood Ave, Bangalow [email protected]

Member of Australian Bookkeepers Network

For emergency flood and

storm assistance132 500

♦ Pots♦ Quality Garden Soils♦ Bulk Potting Mixes♦ Compost & Mulches♦ Sand & Gravel

225 Lismore Rd, Bangalow Ph: 6687 1520Robyn & Ian Black - Proprietors

Admission only $2. Morning tea and lunch available, $10; morning tea only, $5; raffles, $1. Coin donation for the special display competition.

Contact Claire O’Meara on 6687 0557 if you have any questions, or come to the CWA rooms on a Wednesday. Claire O’Meara

QuiltersBangalow Quilters meet on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month, between 9.30am and 12.30pm, at All Souls Anglican Church Hall, Ashton Street, Bangalow, Visitors are welcome. Elizabeth Casimir

Bridge lessonsByron Bridge Club meets on Fridays in Bangalow. Lessons for beginners start on Friday 4 February. Interested people should contact Gary Lynn 6628 3495. Gary Lynn

Tennis ClubResults of the Junior Championships are on page 22.

The other results were – Adults Doubles Mens: Winners: Jason Kennedy & Denis Hopking. Runners Up: Fred Cook & Sam Majdalani. Womens Doubles Winners: Vivienne Westcott & Anita White. Runners Up: Catherine Anthony & Lois East. Mixed Doubles. Winners: Fred Cook & Lois East. Runners Up: Denis Hopking & Anita White.

Tuesday night social tennis (7pm) and Tuesday morning social tennis (9am) have started again. Don’t forget, if you want coaching for yourself or your children, call our coach Jason on 0411 896 955. You can arrange very reasonable court hire for casual games of tennis at the Bowling Club. Lois East

nashua LandcareNashua Landcare would love new members to join our group. “The objective of Nashua

Landcare Group Inc. is to share in the knowledge, skills and actions which will keep our people, our homes, our farms and our locality healthy, productive and harmonious into the future.” We look after the ‘welcome’ sign areas on a roster we share, as well as coming together for a few group working bees each year. The fabulous cricket day on the fourth Sunday in October is our main community event.

We welcome new members and participants at our walks, gatherings, plantings, workshops, picnics, history searches and cricket games. For more information see http://www.nashua.localweb.net.au/ or ring 6629 1736.

Jacinta Lithgow

bowlo newsTo fully check out what’s on at the Bowlo: www.bangalowbowls.com.au‘The Larrikins A Live Show’ starring Doug Walters (former cricket Test great), Greg Hayes (Australia’s top impressionist) and Dave Prior (comedian extraordinaire) are coming to the Bowlo on Saturday 5 February, 7pm, $55 includes dinner and two-and-a-half hour show. Tickets at the Bowlo and Courtesy Bus available. This show will have you in stitches from start to finish.

Members draw on Friday and Saturday nights. To book your functions at the Bowlo, call Dani on 6687 0494. Mufti bowlers play third Sunday of the month. New players always welcome, no experience necessary – just a fun sense of humour. For all enquiries: 6687 1235. Caroline Nolan

Lions ClubThe old year’s end and the New Year’s beginning brought extraordinary happenings.

Firstly, the fire that destroyed the Urban Cafe building was exacerbated by torrential rain which caused the cancellation of the

annual Christmas Eve street celebrations, including the regular fund-raising Lions BBQ. However, the Lions were delighted to contribute to the Chamber of Commerce’s fund to help those affected by the fire, and also to make a donation to the Public School for its Academic Achievements Awards. On 14 December, at the last meeting for 2010, Paul, Jannine, Marlie and Brianna Campton were invited guests. We were delighted to hear Marlie’s report of her success in winning the individual 800 metres race at the Australian National Athletics Championships in Bendigo, Victoria. She spoke with pride of representing BPS and NSW at these events, and thanked the Lions for their support in her endeavours.

The Lions have donated directly to the Queensland Flood Disaster Appeal, and thank the public for their donations to our bucket appeals at the Markets on January 22 and 23. Our regular meetings resume in February on the second and fourth Tuesdays at the Anglican Church Hall. Happy New Year to all Heartbeat readers. Lion Kevin Palmer

Rooms wanted for MusiciansThe Bangalow Music Festival (11-14 August, 2011) is always on the lookout for accommodation for the Australian and international classical musicians who visit Bangalow each year to perform at the festival.

Anything considered, but self-contained en-suite room is preferred. Small payment per night made, or equivalent in free festival tickets. Anyone who accommodated musicians at last year’s festival do not need to re-register – you will be contacted.

Other offers can be emailed to [email protected] or leave a message on 6687 1081. A unique opportunity for you and your family to get to know some of the nicest and most talented individuals on the planet.

Michael Malloy


BANGALOW Wholesale Nursery“Growing Strong”

PREMIUM ADVANCED TREES & SHRUBSHEDGING & SCREENING SPECIALISTS

Rishworths Lane, Brooklet NSW 2479 6687 8626 BY APPOINTMENT 0428 878 626

[email protected]

Stuart & Tracey Knowland

ACCOUNTANTPossum Business Services

Rob Campbell CPAPO Box 93 Bangalow - Tel 6687 1493

Fax 6687 1493 Email [email protected]

Business & Accounts• Tax Returns• GST & BAS • Financial Accounts• Management Consulting• Quickbooks Professional Partner• Bookkeeping & Troubleshooting• Computer Training

For native animal rescues and assistance call

6628 1898 (24 hours)

m a i s o n d e c h o o k

8 BanGaLoW’s heaRTBeaT

What a wet year 2010 was for Bangalow. Hector McKenzie recorded 2235mls last year with only 94 days without rain, but those 94 fine days were not all sunny.

In the first 13 days of 2011 we have received 224.5mls of rain which make the members of the Bangalow Poultry Club keen to bring to your attention the problems this wet humid weather will have on your chickens.

Even if you only have a couple of feathered friends in your back yard, this is the breeding weather for coccidiosis.

The symptons of coccidiosis in young birds and adults are:n Droopinessn Paleness of the combn Diarrhoean Blood in the droppings

The cause of coccidiosis in chickens, and some caged birds, is caused by seven different species of coccidian which are single-celled parasites that live in the gut wall of the bird. The different species of coccidian live in different parts of the gut and can be divided into those causing intestinal coccidiosis (the majority) or caecal coccidiosis (one species).

Birds of any age may be affected, but problems are not common in chicks under

three weeks of age because the parasites take time to build up in sufficient numbers.To prevent this problem in your birds, careful management is important.

Because coccidian requires moisture (and we have had plenty of that) to become infective, the litter must be kept dry. Ventilation must be good and the birds must have sufficient space to move about. Hopefully you have your pens facing north so they get the sunshine in the pens (that is, when it’s not raining). Birds gradually become immune if they are exposed to a low level of infection.

Be sure to clean your pens once a week of wet shavings or straw and droppings and replace with clean, dry, wood shavings. Add the scrapings to your compost bin or garden.

The best way to ensure that your chickens are kept healthy is with a balanced diet. Purchase commercially prepared feed designed to suit your bird’s stage of maturity. Chick starters are perfect for young and growing birds, and layer ration for egg production.

A healthy bird is a happy bird and will live up to 10 years with good care.

For more advice, contact the poultry club on 6687 1322 or www.bangalowpoultryclub.com.au Glenda McKenzie

Bangalow Poultry CluBImportant information on how to care for your poultry in the wet.

9FEBRUARY 2011

INTERACTIVE LANDSCAPES

ABN: 96 790 916 133 Structural Landscaping Lic: 130656C

Landscape DesignPaving

Garden MaintenancePatrick Regnault Ph/Fax: 6629 1064

Mob: 0408 429 646www.interactivelandscapes.com.au

t: 6687 5573 or 6681 5575

Any problem �xed fast

Great deals on new PC’s

• • No call out fees•

Perhaps it was all the spring rain, but there have been more sightings than usual of a spectacular native orchid in our region. The Great (or Giant) Climbing orchid, Pseudovanilla foliata (synonym Galeola foliata) put on a great display at Mary Hendry’s Possum Creek property. Mary has been gradually restoring portions of Big Scrub and several years ago killed some large camphor laurels. Further clearing of lantana and privet has revealed some of the native flora.

This orchid is unusual in that it is myco-heterotrophic, ie parasitic on fungi which break down dead wood, through its roots. The old camphor stumps have provided the perfect host. The orchid forms a very large climbing plant but does not have true leaves, only small

leaf-like bracts at the nodes of the climbing stems and so it is difficult to recognise when not in bloom. The Giant name refers to the enormous length of the stems, up to 150 metres! A photo in Australian Rainforest Plants III (N & H Nicholson) shows a very large tree draped in the stems, covered in hundreds of blooms. Another unusual feature is the seeds, which are the biggest orchid seeds in the world and are winged, which is extraordinary for an orchid.

Pseudovanilla foliata can be found in rainforest and sclerophyll forests from the McIlwraith Range in Queensland to about Kempsey and while not regarded as endangered is probably at risk because of further clearing. Flowering is from November to January. Words and photo: Judy Baker

T H E N A T U R A L E N V I R O N M E N T

FEBRUARY 2011 9

GREAT CLIMBING ORCHId BLOOMs LOCALLY

The angelic faces of the children glowed in the torchlight as they gathered around a bucket of cane toads during the first Bangalow Toad Muster in November. You’d think there’d be a lot of “Yuks!” but instead there was clinical interest and even a little admiration of the poison glands, warty skin and camouflage colours of the toads.

The kids had gone around the close village streets near the creek with parents, and collected the toads using nets and deep buckets. The wise words of Wendy Gibney (cane toad expert) made them safety-aware. Her descriptions of the toads’ life cycle and their devastating impacts on our wildlife gave a deep insight. Can we neutralise the toad threat by collecting them? Yes we can!

In the village, people can either collect

the toads themselves or tell us where the concentrations are (via the Bangalow Landcare website), and on farms people can take responsibility for their dams. Listen out for the distinctive calls (high-

pitched boop-boop-boop). Parents can make the effort to bring the kids to the toad musters in future. We’ll keep records of how many are taken out over time and provide an honest assessment of how effective manual collection is at reducing

their numbers. Addressing the toad threat is one way we can all contribute to a healthier environment without having to do a whole lot of work. The next Muster is on February 9 at 7pm, meet at Bangalow Pool. Bring torch, footwear, long sleeves, and kids need adults with them. David Pont Photo: Judy Baker

Cane Toad MusTer

T H E N A T U R A L E N V I R O N M E N T


A Bangalow Reconnecting to Country event was held last year on Saturday 20 November. Displays showed a working model of the Wilsons Creek catchment and detailed plans of the Bangalow Park Wetland project, to be constructed in the old creekbed beside the weir. A Widjabul elder of the Bundjalung Nation, Aunty Irene Harrington, welcomed all to country. David Pont, member of the local working group and President of Bangalow Land and Rivercare, explained the three key aims of the project: to remove weeds such as blue taro; to improve water quality in Byron Creek through filtration of local run-off; and to increase biodiversity and return the old creek bed to a natural aquatic ecosystem. Sheldon Harrington, Widjabul artist, and Aunty

Irene Harrington and Aunty June Gordon, then presented Sheldon’s painting to the community. This depicts the wetlands and its inhabitants and their meaning to the Widjabul people and will be preserved by Rous Water but also used on signage at the wetlands.

There were updates on the handing over of the land, originally donated to the community by Alex Herrmann and family, the allocation of funds, and the plan of works to be undertaken. The crowd then walked to the site where representatives of the working group and Landcare, Geolink (technical designers of the wetlands), Rous Water and Sustainable Futures Australia, answered questions from the community.

Reconnecting to Country is a community-

based project, initiated and managed by a partnership between Rous Water, Sustainable Futures Australia and Widjabul people of the Bundjalung Nation. It is a catchment management, community education and reconciliation project, assisted by the NSW Government through its Environmental Trust. In January 2011, a professional design document and drawings were completed, formal environmental assessment and management plans finalised, Development Application approved, and the bulk of the funding in hand. We only need the rain to stop! For further information on the project contact Shannon Baunach-Greenfields on 6685 7198 or email [email protected] Judy Baker

Bangalow wetlands open day

Artist Sheldon Harrington, with Widjabul elders, Aunty Irene Harrington and Aunty June Gordon, hand Sheldon’s painting over to David Pont, local working group leader.

LANDcARE: PLEA fOR SUPPORT In 2011 Bangalow Landcare will chalk up 13 years of working for the Bangalow community and the environment. A very small band of dedicated volunteers have so far restored approximately 2km of creek bank with native forest. The work has aimed to improve water quality, provide habitat and enhance the beauty of our town, all of which is being achieved. More on what we have done can be found at www.bangalowlandcare.com

A few grants have come our way over the years but government funding is harder to get and impossible for maintenance works. Anyone who looks after any outdoor area here will know the battle we face with weeds. Fundraising to keep our work going is something we have all struggled with as we would rather being doing the work than

running endless raffles. The Bangalow Lions Club, Bangalow markets and IGA Byron Community chest are our only contributors, small amounts sporadically that make long term planning difficult. In short we really need the help of the community we are working for!

Please consider one of these ways to help us keep going:n Membership – become a member $25 family/ $15 single per year.By doing this you show us much needed moral support. This does not compel you to get your hands dirty nor come to meetings, but that is always welcome too.n Donations – one-off donations will always help, any amount large or small. We can make it go a long way.n Sponsorship – either as an individual or

businesses. We are happy to discuss ways to promote your business as sponsors of our work, call Dave.

Contacts to talk to about any of these options are Liz 6687 1309 or Dave 6687 1376. Direct deposits can be made at Summerland Credit Union 802-222 Acc No 22209164 Ban. Or our postal address is PO Box 139 Bangalow, 2479.

NB: Working bees are on the first Saturday of the month. The next one on 5 February is planned to be a walk and talk along the Sporting Field planting looking at what has worked there and the work ahead. The team will all be on hand to provide information and answer any questions so feel free to come along. Meet at new car park 3pm for approximately one hour. Liz Gander

11FEBRUARY 2011

BANGALOW HERITAGE BUILDING

Phone Charles : 0429 010 876 Email: [email protected] Licence No: 217606C PO Box 624 Bangalow NSW 2479

Extensions and renovations• Garages and home of ces• Restoration specialist• Retreats and studios•

Decking and pergolas• Dairy bale conversions• Cubby Houses• Licenced builder•

Ph 6680 7510 www.hammondassoc.com.au

Civil & Structural Engineers BYRON SHIRE

Civil, commercial, industrial & domestic projects

HAMMOND & ASSOCIATES

fEBRUARY 2011 11

It is a treat to drive around the district at present, apart from the fact that we are fortunate to have escaped the worst of the floods, because two very handsome trees are flowering.Masses of very white flowers carried in clusters in almost horizontal rows, giving it a layered look, denote Commersonia bartramii commonly known as the brown kurrajong. Although it was among the Big Scrub trees its timber is not used commercially. It has a very wide distribution from the Bellinger River to Cape York and also grows in the Pacific and parts of Indonesia. It is a very useful pioneer species when planting a rainforest and is among those which will regrow when a forest is felled. It will strike from cuttings.

The other is a very tall tree (up to 30 metres) and its whitish flowers look like very large hydrangeas or even a very large version of the old fashioned guelder rose. This is the Queensland maple (Flindersia Brayleana) which, though it does very well here, comes from the tablelands of north Queensland. As its name suggests it is a well recognised commercial timber and is a cousin of Flindersia australis (aka, teak or crows ash) which is native to the Big Scrub area.

All the Flindersias have very distinctive seed pods: woody capsules which can be separated into five boat shaped pieces, but intact make attractive decorations when painted. Words & photos: Helen Wilson

SUMMER fLOWERING TREES

Brown Kurrajong (Commersonia bartramii)

Queensland maple (Flindersia Brayleana)


GNFbangalow(02) 6687 2833

www.gnfrealestate.com.au

r e f l e c t i n g o n o u r p a s t

12 BangaloW’s HeartBeat

The Bangalow Historical Society, in conjunction with the Chamber of Commerce, will officially launch their Heritage Walk on Monday 28 February, 10am, with a ceremony at the Post Office. Local MP, Don Page, will launch the exciting venture by unveiling a large plaque – featuring a map of the main street – in the verandah area. Then it’s back to the Museum for morning tea.

The route of the walk is intended to start at the Museum then go up Ashton Street to the church and along Byron Street, returning down Deacon Street. At the moment there are about 25 plaques going on buildings of historical interest, and the map will be available from the Museum and various shops in town.

The project has taken many months. Once the committee began the research they found that the information they had was not always very reliable. Vivienne Gorec, who did the major background work, found that she often could not rely on anecdotal evidence and had to delve into files in the Lands Dept, the Council and the Northern Star archives.

Dawn Lotty collated (and often enhanced) the pictures and Robert Lotty was the designer. Rita Cowled was the liaison for all involved parties. Stephanie King

1895 (though more likely 1905/6). Bangalow main street, looking west.

1915. Hayters in talbot car in front of the strand 1938. View of Bangalow, taken from a plane.

walk this waySetting the scene for the ‘way we were’,

these old photographs look at the Bangalow streetscape from about 1895 to 1925.

feBruarY 2011 1313FEBRUARY 2011

NOW AVAILABLE24HR MOBILE SERVICEMob: 0428 63 9988

1026a Friday Hut Road Binna Burra via Bangalow

HYDRAULINK BANGALOW

Hydraulink Bangalow is your local supplier and retailer of hydraulic hoses, fittings and componentry

Phone: Grant: 0429 425 965

02-6687 1672 Peter: 0427 299 904

We service the Macadamia, Agriculture, Earthmoving, Industrial and Manufacturing Industries

BLINDS AND SECURITYBANGALOW

1907. a very dapper J. noble walking down the street.

1925. looking east down the main street. 1903. the es&a Bank was originally a residence built in the 1800s.

c o m m u n i t y l i f e

14 BAnGAloW’S HeARtBeAt

In January 2009 Rosemarie Toynbee and her husband Arnold saw a need in this area for a networking group, so started monthly gatherings they call Bangalow Networking Breakfasts. There are seven business networking groups in the area from Murwillumbah to Alstonville, but BNB was the first networking group established for both men and women.

Currently the BNB group numbers around 100 members and is growing. “It brings together an eclectic group of people from the area, many of whom are solopreneurs, working in solitary situations,” Rosemarie explained.

The group provides a forum for socialising and promoting each others’ businesses in what she calls “a subtle yet powerful way”.

As well, Rosemarie says that the breakfast meetings provide “an opportunity for a great exchange of ideas and new approaches to business. A huge amount of business is generated between the members, and this is very gratifying.” In her view, this happens “because the group creates a climate of confidence – just like one big family.”

Each month a different mix of people attends the breakfasts. They are held upstairs at Bangalow’s Satiate restaurant on the third

Thursday of each month. Numbers are kept to 18 to “ensure an intimate and dynamic environment for exchange”.

Although not all of those on the membership list attend the meetings, many members enjoy the connection and information distributed in the regular newsletters. This becomes “like a handy database of what’s happening in the local business area”, adds Rosemarie. Each month a member is the speaker for the day on their subject of expertise. This stimulates a lively exchange of information and input.

Some of the speakers planned for this year are: February: Tiffany Carmichael, ‘Horses as therapists’. March: Alison Rahn, sex therapist, ‘Sex and teenagers’. April: Arnold Toynbee, ‘On exchanging homes’. May: Lois Kelly, project coordinator for Northern Rivers Food, ‘Micro business startup’. June: Deano Power, Byron New Media ‘Enabling passionate people to tell powerful stories’. July: Ankya Klay, photographer, ‘Transformation through photography’. September: Tracey Knowland, Bangalow Wholesale Nursery, ‘Gardening in the subtropics’. October: Tracey McWhinnie, ‘Send out cards’.

A year ago, Rosemarie and Arnold also started a similar network in Alstonville. This is now run by Tracey McWhinnie. They hope to attract more men to the group to “add further vibrance and diversity”.

For more info, contact Rosemarie at 0412 475 543 or [email protected]

NETWORKING BREAKFASTSBusiness connections and shared information form the basis of these groups, reports Ankya Klay.

Social geographer visits intentional communities Dr Helen Jarvis, a social geographer from the University of Newcastle, UK, visited Byron Shire in January as part of a world tour of intentional communities. Here she met founding members of four local communities involved in the Byron Rural Landsharing Communities Association, to discuss at length the evolution of communities in this region.

In Bangalow, she met with Carole Sherringham and Peter Lamont from Aracauria in Broken Head; Suresh Osborne from Tibian Creek Sanctuary in Goonengerry; Balanced Systems town planner Rob Doolan from Whian Whian, and members of the Jindibah Community in Bangalow including Christopher Sanderson, Christobel Munson, Stephan Kahlert and Annette and Mark Kern.

Commenting on the discussions, Suresh

Osborne said: “Communities in our Shire have been fortunate to have been able to draw on the experience and knowledge of the creators of local communities from the post-Aquarius Festival period in the early 1970s, while evolving to suit contemporary needs and Council requirements. We explained to Dr Jarvis that Community Title has now given lot owners, including young families, the possibility of obtaining bank finance to build their houses or expand their businesses. What this also means for lot owners in a Community Title is that, should circumstances change and they need to move on, the value of their lot keeps apace with local prices, protecting their capital.”

Aracauria, Tibian Creek and Jindibah communities were originally established in the early 1990s as Multiple Occupancies, then spent more than 10 years successfully

converting to Community Title with beneficial results in terms of environmental, social and economic advantages in all cases.

For 15 years Dr Jarvis has researched “the complex drivers and implications of urban social restructuring from a household resource perspective”. A senior lecturer in ‘Human Geography’, she describes her work as “sociology, with added concern for place and space”. In her tour of communities she has found a common feature to be an emphasis on collective activity and shared physical space. “My aim is both to contribute new understanding from an integrated (social-spatial) approach, and to provide lessons from international comparison for the mainstream development of socially and environmentally sustainable collective and collaborative housing.” Christobel Munson

15FEBRUARY 2011

Liz Thomas : Libbie NelsonRyan Huxley : Clare Connolly

BANGALOW PHARMACY23 byron street bangalow 2479 tel 02 6687 1104 email [email protected] ADVICE. PRACTITIONER ONLY VITAMINS. COMPOUNDING SERVICE.

AESOP ANNICK GOUTAL PARFUMS PARIS MODEMILLER HARRIS ROBERT PIGUET ACQUA DIPARMA EAU D’ITALIE L’ARTISAN PARFUMEURPENHALIGONS SAVON DE MARSEILLE MISSONI NESTI DANTE LYIE VAN RYCKE PARIS ME AND ROAESOP CLAUS PORTO SOAP JULIETTE HAS AGUN LAURA MERCIER COSMETICS DR HAUSCHKA

bang book advert 25/5/10 8:24 AM Page 1

Health & Wellbeing

Cherie DrydenAccredited Practising Dietitian (APD) Accredited Nutritionist (AN)Rebates AvailableEnquiries & Appointments Mobile 0439 765 047 E [email protected] W www.chewsnutrition.com.au

Clinic LocationsSouth St Professional Rooms 1 South Street AlstonvilleBangalow Medical Centre Lot 1 Ballina Rd Bangalow

FEBRUARY 2011 15


James Whittle

bangalow chiropractic• Applied Kinesiology (AK) • Total Body Modification (TBM) • Sacro-Occipital Tech (SOT) • Neuro-Emotional Tech (NET)• Neuro-Organisation Tech (NOT)

Wholistic body balancing using low force techniques

6687 0522 4 Granuaille Rd Bangalow

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

potential plus ouline ad.pdf 14/3/10 9:13:55 AM

W H A T ’ s g o i n g o n ?

16 BAngALoW’s HEARTBEAT

The New Year didn’t get off to a good start for two young ladies from Dunoon. Driving back from the Woodford Folk Festival on the morning of January 1, they could smell something burning as they were coming into Bangalow. When they pulled up on the road side in Granuaille Road, they noticed smoke coming from the front of their car. They managed to unload most of their belongings just before the whole car caught on fire sending black smoke high up into the air. The

fire brigade and police were on the scene fairly quickly and the road was closed while firemen were hosing down the car. Rats were seen running from the car and, as it turned out, they had nested under the bonnet with their babies and must have chewed through some of the wiring. The heat of the fire was so intense it completely destroyed the car and it had to be towed to the wreckers. The young ladies were extremely shaken but lucky to be alive. Words and pic: Brigitte Zeisig

A scAry stArt to 2011

nEWRyBAR nEWsNewrybar Hall is currently in a program of making its most significant improvements for decades. On 25 November 2010 some 60 guests attended the official opening of the new commercial grade kitchen by Edna Hayter and Marie Flick (see photo left). The new kitchen allows the hall to host a range of social events that could never have been possible before.

The next structural improvement to

It’s time to celebrate. The majority of work to upgrade the A&I Hall in time for the 2011 centenary has now been completed. Work on the restored mural panel for the façade is progressing and we expect to have it in place within the next month.

After what can only be described as protracted negotiations, Byron Shire Council – at its meeting on 16 December 2010 – finally decided to return $15,990 to the Hall Board of Management to be expended on cultural activities within the Hall, including the Centenary celebrations. Council reached this decision only after Council staff could not satisfactorily explain why they had taken these funds from the Hall’s then Committee of Management, and could not substantiate the unspecified maintenance/improvements to the Hall they claim to have spent the funds on.

With the return of these funds the Board of Management has been discussing a draft program of centenary celebrations, with a view to having an event of significance

A&i HALL UpdATE

FEBRUARy 2011 1717FEBRUARY 2011

Accountants Registered Tax Agents

Taking care of local businesses for over 10 years

HUDSON MANAGEMENT SERVICES

Contact John HUDSON for an initial consultation 85 BYRON ST, BANGALOW PH: 6687 2960

BEESLEY & HUGHESLAWYERS of BANGALOW

www.beesleyandhughes.com.au

16 Byron Street, Bangalow

Ph: 6687 1717

We provide a confidential, competent and prompt legal service with sensitivity appropriate to the current economic circumstances.

Owen Hughes: Principal SolicitorCassandra Bennett: Solicitor

Open 8am-5.15pm

nEWRyBAR nEWs commence very soon will be the replacement of part of the hall foundations – the original work is 112 years old and it’s time to renew it. More improvements planned for 2011 include a new audio/sound system and more renovation work on parts of the building.

The hall activities program also acts as fundraisers for our ongoing improvements.

The program for 2011 organised so far includes:

Sat 12 Feb, 8pm, Old Time Dance with The Rhythm Rascals. Includes supper. Tickets $10 at the doorSat 26 Feb, 7pm, Indian Tandoori Night (Chef Bev Singh). BYO. Entertainment included. Tickets $25/head, call 6687 8443. Fri 1 April, 7pm, Quiz Challenge with Tintenbar (at Tintenbar Hall). It’s time we took back ‘our’ trophy and gave Tintenbar the wooden spoon that belongs to them. Tickets $10/head call 6687 8443. BYO.

Sat 7 May, 6.30pm, Dinner Movie Night, with a newly released film. Call 6687 8443.2011 activities programWeekly activities: Zumba with Roberta. Mon and Thurs, 11am and 6pm, $10/class, second class free. Wed (kids), 4.30pm, 0432 572 507.Yoga with Josie (Iyenga style). Tues, 6.15pm, $10/class, second class free, 0415 178 728.Tai Chi with Margitta. Wed, 9.15am, $6/class, 0422 652 653. Ian Duncan

A&i HALL UpdATE

every month, including enhancing existing community events traditionally held in the Hall (such as the Cabaret Da Desh and the Bangalow Music Festival). Details on the monthly events will be advertised through Heartbeat and will also be available on the Hall website www.bangalowhall.com

Following a ceremony to announce the centenary, marked by lighting up the façade and unveiling of the front mural, the major event for February 2011 will be an exhibition – ‘Images of the A&I Hall’ with local artists, photographers and sculptors invited to

submit images of the Hall from a variety of perspectives. See details on Hall website.

The Board of Management also invites members of the community who have historical records/memorabilia/photographs that they wish to make available for the centenary to attend the A&I Hall on Sunday 13 February, 1pm–4pm, where their items can be scanned/photographed/etc ‘on the spot’ and returned. If you have relevant items and are unable to attend on this day, please contact Sue on 0419 441 556.

Michael Malloy/Sue Holm

Editors: Christobel Munson

Stephanie King

Art: Niels Arup

Advertising: Dianne Martin

Ad Production: Allie Leo

Editorial Team: Judy Baker, Marika

Bryant, Tony Hart, Karen Jordan,

Ankya Klay, Lyn Plummer, Brian

Sundstrom

Sub editor: Helen Wilson

Distribution: Bangalow Post Office,

Brian Sundstrom, Neil McKenzie

Web Pages: Wendy Gray

Accounts: Rob Campbell

Chairman: Neville Maloney

l i f e o n t h e l a n d

18 BanGaloW’S heaRtBeat

Alasdair Smithson first developed an interest in plants and gardening as a young man growing up in rural Devon. He pursued this interest by studying a Bachelor of Organic Agriculture at university in Wales. While studying he had hands-on experience working in a local organic garden.

His work in organic gardening in UK led to an offer from Biological Farming Australia to sponsor his relocation to Brisbane. He worked in Brisbane and then North Queensland before moving to Newrybar with 14 years experience in organic farming.

He share-farms on 3ha of the 40ha farm owned by Andy and Lecia Mason. Andy and Lecia grow macadamias, mandarins and limes, while Alasdair grows vegetables and herbs. Jake, a TAFE Horticulture student works full time, and a range of Wwoofers (Willing workers on organic farms) help out also.

Share farming in this area makes sense. As Alasdair says, “Land prices here are very high, so by leasing land, sharing the use of machinery, buildings, cold rooms and halving the costs of public liability insurance, farming is made more accessible for young people.”

Alasdair’s business, Munch Crunch Organics, has been certified by ACO – Australian Certified Organic – which has annual inspections of organic farms regarding their growing methods and checks on receipts and paper work. The rest of the farm is in the process of being certified. As the number of organic farms grows, inspections are becoming more stringent to ensure high standards.

There has been a recent increased demand for produce from organic farms as more consumers become concerned about the levels of insecticides and fertilisers used in food production. Alasdair defines organic farming as “a whole-system approach where all aspects of production work together, land is rested and

there is an attempt to mimic nature and the ‘law of return’.”

Healthy soil is essential for successful organic farming. Crops are rotated so that 20 per cent of the land is rested and out of production for at least six months. The soil is then enriched with a green cover crop of legumes which release nitrogen. The legumes are later dug into the soil along with compost which Alasdair buys from Triton in Lismore.

As any gardener knows, pest control is essential for healthy plants. Alasdair uses Eco-Oil, a plant-based spray for aphids, and DiPel for caterpillar control. DiPel is a natural bacteria which is sprayed on plants to kill caterpillars but is harmless to other insects. Fungal disease such as powdery mildew is treated with Ecocarb. He also buys Good Bug Mix from Green Harvest in Victoria which attracts beneficial insects such as bees, ladybirds and harmless parasitic wasps to help control pests. His future plan is to plant corridors of flowers such as calendulas and marigolds to attract beneficial insects onto the farm.

Another aspect of successful organic farming is the seed used. Alasdair grows his own

seedlings in shade houses and experiments with different ones to see which perform best. For example he has found a variety of coriander which does not run to seed in summer nearly as quickly as most varieties seem to.

Munch Crunch Organics provides a wide range of vegetables, herbs and citrus. Any produce not available from the share farm is supplemented with produce from other organic farms (local if possible). Customers can order their produce online and have a weekly home delivery. This service is currently on hold until autumn because there is a decreased supply as a result of the recent high rainfall. Alasdair’s business already supplies some organic produce to Brisbane, and he hopes in the future to find local distributors in Queensland so the business can expand.

Summing up what he likes best about his business he says: “Receiving positive feedback from my home-delivery customers, or buyers at Bangalow and Byron Bay Farmers Markets. Even though I work really long hours I don’t mind because I’m working out in nature in a job which I love. It’s really my passion.”More info: www.munchcrunchorganics.com.au

Share-farming OrganicS


NOW OPEN

2011• Emaildirectoryupdates,changesornewlistingsto: [email protected]“directorylistingform” fromtheBangalowPostOffice. Directory deadline: May 13.

• Alladvertisingqueries-SueHolmonph:0419441556 Ad Booking deadline: April 18.

Lyn Plummer investigates the brave new world of organic share farming with Alasdair Smithson, of Munch Crunch Organics in Newrybar

19FEBRUARY 2011

Solway’s Fuel Stop

Fuels, Oils, Batteries and Accesories for Cars, Bikes, Trucks and Tractors

Driveway Service FirewoodGas Bottle Swap & Refill Bulk Fuel DeliveriesPrepaid Mobile Recharge Bulk KeroseneGroceries & Ice Filtered Drinking WaterOPEN 7 DAYS 6am-7pm54 Byron St ph: 6687 1441

Ray Towers CarpetsTOWERS DRIVE, MULLUMBIMBY • PH 6684 2467

9 THREE CHAIN RD, STH LISMORE • PH 6621 8399

Carpets at low,low prices!

‘Our pr ices are discounted all year round’

Thousands of metres of carpets,berbers, twists, plushes, sisals,

Interchange Update

FEBRUARY 2011 19

H I G H W A Y A N D C O U N C I L P A T R O L

At its last full meeting in 2010, Byron Shire Council unanimously resolved to support Bangalow’s petition against the proposed T2E interchange at Bangalow. Council now formally opposes the construction of the interchange by the NSW RTA and will be making an urgent submission explaining its opposition. Following this decision, and again after the New Year’s Eve Pacific

Highway truck explosion, the No Interchange Action Group sent emails to the Minister. These drew attention to Council’s resolution, raised a number of further questions about the justification for the interchange, and issued an invitation to meet with residents on the site so he can see for himself how the interchange will impact the town and residents of Clover Hill. No acknowledgement has been received

in return. In the meantime we hear that the RTA is meeting Byron Shire Council on 9 February to discuss financial responsibilities for maintaining the old highway once the T2E is operational. So, some communication is happening, albeit at RTA’s bidding. Let’s hope Council representatives raise the matter of the interchange given Council’s unanimous objection to it. Tony Hart

COUNCIL sEEks FEEDBACk ON REzONINGByron Shire Council is asking for community feedback on a proposal to rezone land in Bangalow for residential housing. The parcel of approximately 10,000sqm (one hectare) is at the end of Charlotte Street and could provide about 10 to 12 new residential lots.

Council’s Acting Executive Manager of Environment and Planning, Sharyn French, said the rezoning proposal was the result of initial work done last year by the landowners, Council and NSW Planning.

“A rezoning proposal for land identified in the Bangalow Settlement Strategy 2003 as being suitable for residential housing was submitted to NSW Planning last year,” she said. “The proposal did not encompass a

portion of land included in the Settlement Strategy that later studies revealed to be flood-prone. To account for the flood-prone land left out of the rezoning proposal, the property owners included other land adjoining the Settlement Strategy area.

“While the balance of the Settlement Strategy land was rezoned in August 2010, NSW Planning rejected the inclusion of the adjoining land in the rezoning proposal. The land owners have now responded to Planning’s concerns, and the Department is satisfied the rezoning proposal for the adjoining land should proceed to public exhibition.”

Ms French said that as part of ensuring land development in the Shire proceeded

appropriately, further assessment beyond the public submission period would take place.

“Once public submissions on the rezoning close, Council staff will prepare a submission report which will go to a Council meeting,” she said. It is on exhibition for a period of 14 days from January 27 to 4pm, February 9.

The plans can be viewed at Council’s Mullumbimby offices, the Bangalow Post Office, and on Council’s website at www.byron.nsw.gov.au/PublicExhibition. Written submissions should be addressed to The General Manager, PO Box 219, Mullumbimby, NSW 2482, clearly marked ‘Submission – Bangalow Planning Proposal’.

Matt Meir/Byron Shire Council

A new Hinterland Way? When the Tintenbar to Ewingsdale (T2E) motorway is completed, and if the vision of a group of local businessmen is realised, the old Pacific Highway will become the ‘Hinterland Way’. This would be stage one of a network of tourist drives between the Ross Lane and Ewingsdale interchanges on the new motorway. One of the prerequisites of the proposal is that the T2E Bangalow interchange be removed from the plans, saving the RTA over $5 million which could be devoted to promotional material and

signposting of the alternative tourist drives. The aim is to encourage motorists to leave

the motorway and experience a leisurely sampling of local tourist attractions, staying in local accommodation and using the shops, restaurants and coffee bars of the local villages of Bangalow and Newrybar and, eventually, elsewhere in the vicinity. The Bangalow Chamber of Commerce (BCoC) supports the project.

Mid-2010 discussions with the RTA appeared promising, with the Roads Minister

advising that a small working party is investigating the proposal. Tony Gilding (Macadamia Castle), Pat Grier (involved with Regional Futures Institute at SCU) and Michael Malloy (BCoC President) are encouraging local member Don Page to support the project at the next State election.

In a July 2010 media release, Don said this is “an exciting tourism concept that will make the most of existing infrastructure when the Tintenbar to Ewingsdale upgrade of the highway is completed.” Tony Hart

AA Tues 5.30 Doug 6687 8668Angling 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 1911Bangalow Freemasons 4th Monday 7.30pm Steve 6624 5547Bridge Fri 12pm Brian 6687 2427Cancer support 1st Wed 1-4pm Chris 6687 0004Childcare Centre 7.45am-6pm Kerry 6687 1552Cricket Club Anthony 0429 306 529CWA 2nd Wed Sue 6687 2619Garden Club 1st Wed Shirley 6687 1417 George the Snake Man George 0407 965 092Groundforce Georgia 6629 1189Historical Society/Museum/Tea Room Vivienne 6687 2183Jazz-x-ercise Thurs 6pm Ann 6629 1041Land/RiverCare 1st Sat working bee Liz 6687 1309Lawn Bowls, Men Wed & Sat 1pm Ian 6687 2604Lawn 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 Jenni 6629 1740Pony Club Kim Herwig 6687 8007

Pool Trust 3rd Wed Peta 6688 4236Poultry Club Hec 6687 1322Progress Association Liz 6687 1195Quilters 2nd,4th Thurs Leonie 6687 1453Red Cross monthly - 1st Fri Emily 6687 1038S355 C’mtee Heritage House Dawn 6687 2442Scouts Tues 6.30pm Alison 6628 1024Show 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 6687 1944Tennis Court Hire B&S Club Kaylene 6687 1235Writers Group 1st Thurs Ruth 6686 3008

VENUES A&I Hall Station St Michael 6687 1081Anglican Hall Ashton St Russell 6687 1046Bangalow Showgrd Moller Pavilion Karina 6687 1035Sports/Bowling Club Byron St Lynne 6687 1235Catholic Hall Deacon St George 6687 1969Coorabell Hall Coolamon Scenic Simon 6684 2888 Newrybar Hall Newrybar Village Kay 6687 1324RSL Hall Station St Charlotte 6687 2828Scout Hall Showgrounds Jenny 6687 2047Heritage House Deacon St Dawn 6687 2442

USEFUL INFORMATION AND CONTACT NUMBERS


E N T E R p R i S i N GT

HE

Biz

n Local jeweller, David Collins has opened up his new showroom in the Post Office building.n Textures of Bangalow in Station Street has been sold and will re-open in early February.n Lazybones has relocated their clothing to the former Don’t Tell Mama premises above the Summerland Credit Union.n Millar & More have set up premises upstairs at 16 Byron Street, Bangalow.n BMT WBM has opened an office in Bangalow (above DesignBank) managed by Damion Cavanagh. The company provides en-vironmental engineering and scientific services. Damion and Phillip Ryan deliver projects associated with flood impact assessments, water quality monitoring, modelling and data interpretation, coastal engineering, stormwater management, estuarine studies and climate change adaptation as it relates to the physical environment. Contact: 6687 0466 or [email protected] Michael de Laurence (who opened Utopia in January 2004 with Ross Skinner), is back there rattling the pans as the new execu-tive chef, after several years at Dish restaurant in Byron Bay. Utopia has opened again for dinner on Friday and Saturday nights, with breakfast and lunch served every day from 8am.

New business happenings that are going on in Bangalow.

Pantry 29 (once Bangalow Basics) has extended its opening hours. Early birds are welcome from 7am Mon-Fri, and during summer, they’re open later Friday evenings.

With a background in hospitality, new owner Lisa Fisher is from Melbourne. “I have a passion for food and a love of the heritage style of Bangalow, so this business seemed like the perfect match,” she said. “I’ll be maintaining the fresh and healthy produce range here, while adding variety with some fantastic new products.”

David and Jenny Kennedy have installed a state-of-the-art espresso machine there to serve hot beverages from their local award-

winning Bun Coffee company range. “Our involvement with Pantry 29 now gives the locals and visitors to Bangalow a chance to actually taste our product range before they buy,” David says.

Lisa points out that, as a roaster and a former café owner and barista, David “brings extensive coffee expertise to our business. Not only do we have the right tools to make the perfect cup, but David has trained me and my staff in the art of coffee making. He and Jenny have been part of this community for over five years, living first in town and now in the Possum Creek hinterland, so it’s been wonderful to tap into their local knowledge.” Lisa Peacock

pantry 29

21FEBRUARY 2011

39 Byron St, Bangalow ph: 6687 1262

For all your beer, wine, spirit and party needs

Sun-Thurs 10am-8pm;

Fri-Sat

10am-9pm

Great weekly specials

Locally owned & operated

Bangalow Cellars

t h e a r t s

FeBrUarY 2011 21

art

erY

After the Flood: Federal community fundraiser for flood victims. Banding together for a night of performance, prizes, raffles and fundraising stuff: Mick McHugh, Colin George, Mal and the Longboarders (see above), and It’s Probably Us. Supper provided, lucky door prize - all this for $20 and the knowledge that you’ve contributed. Federal Hall, Federal, Saturday 5 March, 7pm.

aRtECYCLE 2011: Moonee Valley City Council seeking submissions for exhibition of sculptures and installations using reclaimed materials that explore themes of environmentalism and sustainability. Contact www.incineratorarts.com.au or (03) 8325 1750. Closing 11 March.

Dungog Film Festival calling for entries for 2011 program. Showcasing only Australian content, presenting for diverse audience and calling for feature films; shorts; documentaries; television pilots; music videos and animation. Contact

www.dungogfilmfestival.org/. Closing 21 March.

Art on the Move Art Exhibition: Local artists with guest artists Bronwyn Russell, Maxx Maxstead and surprises; regular appearances by Karyn Fendley, Mike King-Prime, Marika Bryant (see pic below), Leonie Jackson, Jacqueline King, and Soren Carlbergg. Coinciding with the Bangalow Market Day – Moller Pavilion within the market grounds, opposite the band. 27

February.

National Rural Health Photo and Poetry Competition: Friends of the Alliance holding their competition to highlight life in rural and remote Australia and as such entry is open to all rural and remote residents (not for professional poets or photographers). $500 and $250 prizes – entry details http://nrha.ruralhealth.org.au/ by 11 February.

Northern Rivers Portrait Prize: Portraits depicting a person from the Northern Rivers who the artist believes to be of value to their lives and/or community. Artists encouragement with three awards:

$10,000 acquisitive for overall winner; $1000 Emerging Artist; $1000 artist 30 years and younger; $500 Regional Gallery Peoples’ Choice. www.lismoregallery.org or Regional Gallery Lismore. Closes 25 March.

Wangaratta Contemporary Textile Award: Professional artists in any style of media, shortlist finalists for the Award

Exhibition in the Gallery 4 June-17 July with $5000 acquisitive prize. www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au by 25 March.

ArtStart funding: Grants available for visual, hybrid, media, performing, music, literature, community and/or cultural development arts for those who want to earn $$ or gain employment

(same thing???). Check out the scope on www.artstartgrant.com.au by 8 March.

MyFuture Video Competition: Video an occupation that interests you! If you are aged between 12 and 25, you can win $7500 with a second chance at $5000. www.myfuture.edu.au/Home/Events/News/myfuture by 28 February.

Open up the flood gates and let the healing begin. Catastrophic events in our own backyard: resolve to rebuild and ‘keep on going’ floats to the top and out into the sea of life. Help from our friends, an open heart and a giving hand: can we all make a difference in our one metre surround? Marika Bryant thinks we can. Let us start the soggy ball rolling with…


Shop 1/30 Byron Street, Bangalow, NSW 2479PH 6687 2477 [email protected] dcjeweller.com.au

k i d s O U T A N d A B O U T

22 BANGALOW’s HEARTBEAT

Scout NewS

fERNLEiGH scHOOL

Thank you to everyone for supporting the first raffle run by our new, very enthusiastic, Skatepark committee, and to our wonderful sponsors and Michael Malloy for drawing the tickets. Money raised was $1038.40, a fantastic effort. It was great to see the younger ones helping to sell tickets and collect donations, and very much appreciated.

The winners are: Bodyboard/Cape Byron Imports – A86 Ali; Echidna Place gift voucher – A94 Ted; Suncare Gift Package/Lennox Head Pharmacy – E42 Mel1; Summer Reading Book/Bangalow Newsagency – E10 Isaac; Element Skating pack – F5 Jennifer; Soccer Jnr Reg/Soccer Club) – D22 Will; AFL Jnr Reg/AFL Club – C39 Chris; Helmet/Bangalow Progress Assoc – A45 June.

If you would like to help with the Skatepark, or know more about it, phone Liz 6687 1195 or Dale 6687 2154. Our committee is growing but we can do with some extra help! We will be fundraising at the Bangalow Markets on 27 February. See you there. Liz Parks

NETBALL cLUB NEWs

Bangalow Scouts received a fantastic Christmas present last year, a Government Grant of $29,000 for further hall upgrading. This will mostly be spent on widening the existing deck, and including a roof over it. New toilets were installed at the end of last year and the new kitchen went in a couple of days before Christmas.

Our new recruits will be invested into the Scout Troop on Tuesday 22 February. This is a very significant date in Scouting called ‘Founder’s Day’ held in celebration of Baden Powell’s birthday. Baden Powell started Scouting by holding the very first scout camp at Brownsea Island in 1907.

Bangalow Scouts will be running a ‘Try Joey Scout/Cub Scout’ four-week program starting Wednesday 9 February. Joey Scouts are girls and boys aged six and seven while Cub Scouts are the eight to 10½ year olds. Please call Jenny Holden for more information 6687 2047. Lisa Sharpe

The start date for the 2011 season is Saturday 26 March. We will be holding sign-on at the Bangalow Bowling Club back deck on Wednesday 23 February and Wednesday 2 March between 3.30pm and 5.30pm. Come along and join in the fun.

Netball is Catching. For more information please call Gary Sharman on 0411 788 311. Gary Sharman

Skatepark raffle

Fernleigh Public School students celebrated the Year of Biodiversity by working closely with local ceramic artist Brooke Clunie over term 4 to create a tile mural representing 2010 The Year of Biodiversity. Visual Arts teacher, Carolyn Bailey, assisted students to sketch images of the flora and fauna that inhabit their local area. Brooke worked with the students in her pottery studio to transfer the images to individual tiles which were arranged to create a stunning mural. We thank Don Curry and Ray Crane for mounting the tiles for display.

The mural was unveiled by Brooke and SRC President Zack Bailey on 14 December at our End of Year Assembly. Everyone was impressed by the wonderful mural. Michaela Reina, Principal

23FEBRUARY 2011

BCCC News

FEBRUARY 2011 23

k i d s O U T A N d A B O U T

In appreciation of his generous support and contribution to both the Centre and the broader community, Michael Malloy has been named as a Patron of Bangalow Community Children’s Centre. A plaque was presented to Michael at the West Room at the end of year concert on 17 December, 2010, to acknowledge his contribution.

As well as helping the Centre to launch its now annual Art Exhibition, Michael has organised a large number of A&I

Hall excursions for the children to see performances and to participate in ‘Kids in the Kitchen’. Michael has organised fun and interesting art lessons for the teachers and made significant donations for the Centre’s gardens, decks, cooking equipment, to help keep the Centre operating well.

The Centre and community is forever grateful of Michael’s support and friendship. Kerry Ellbourn

TENNis ClUBI hope everyone had a lovely Christmas and I hope you have a New Year filled with health, happiness and lots of tennis to keep you fit! The Junior Championships were held at the courts recently. Below is a list of the winners. Thanks to all players for participating.

11 years & Under Boys Doubles. Winners: Charlie & Jordie Hawkins. Runners Up: Tomas & Julian Correia. 11 years & Under Girls Doubles. Winners: Gianna Trotta & Mia Sharman. Runners Up: Abbie Jarrett & Zoe Le Sueur. Open Mixed Doubles. Winners:

Daniel Witchey & Roisin Carolan. Runners Up: Casey Peck & Jasper Gotterson. 9 years & Under Girls Singles. Winner: Mia Sharman. Runner Up: Freya Peacock. 11 years & Under Girls Singles. Winner: Tonaya Basso. Runner Up: Gianna Trotta. 11 years & Under Boys Singles. Winner: Charlie Hawkins. Runner Up: Hamish Ronchi-Robinson. Open Boys Singles. Winner: Angus Page. Runner Up: Jackson Hagley. Open Girls Singles. Winner: Tahlia Bourke. Runner Up: Roisin Carolan. Adults results on page 7. Lois East

school Hall now open and proudly welcomed The Bangalow Public School Hall is now complete and open for school activities, more than three years after funding for the project was announced.

At a cost of just under $2 million, the new school hall was funded under the Federal Government’s Building the Education Revolution program.

Completed a week before the end of term in 2010, the new hall was proudly utilised to host the Year 6 farewell, Bangalow Public School’s Presentation Day, and an end-of-year school disco and carols.

Built by Hutchinsons Builders and project managed by REED Constructions, the new hall is a Core 14 hall, which provides 190m2 of floor space; has boys/girls/disabled toilets (the disabled toilet also has a shower); sound cupboard with full sound system plus an under-floor sound field for the hearing impaired; and two storerooms as well as a chair store with 190 chairs.

Bangalow Public School is a proud member of the Lighthouse Valley Learning Community.

Words: Allie Leo Pic: Jocelyne Pegoretti


www.zentvelds.com.au

P: 0488 426 600www.bangalowlimousines.com.au

Because you’re important

• Come & experience our new luxury people mover

• Bangalow to Coolangatta airport (twice a day - leave 9.30am & 12.30pm)

$50.00 per person

We cater to Weddings, Parties, Anything

Coorabell Show. After a year’s hiatus, the Coorabell Arts and Flower Show returns for the 51st time on Saturday 26 February. Everyone (not just Coorabell residents) is welcome to enter all sections: flowers, produce, pot plants and orchids, craft, culinary, photography, art and computer-generated images and there are children’s, as well as open, sections. Bring your entries to the Hall on Coolamon Scenic Drive. Dahlias can be delivered between 3-4.30pm, all other entries between 3.30-5.30pm. There’ll be a BBQ and entertainment from 5.30pm and a fundraising produce auction once everyone has had a chance to admire the goodies. It costs nothing to enter, so try your luck – or just come and admire. A great social community function. Info: Ouida Wrencher on 6687 1307 or www.coorabellhall.net Wendy Gray

Xmas Eve in March.Following on from the disappointment of the cancellation of the Xmas Eve Carnival due to appalling weather conditions, the show will now go on with a mini carnival on Saturday 19 March, 2011.

There will be street performers in Station Street and stage acts in the A&I Hall. The RSL Hall will be a special place for the littlies and the SK8 boarders might even give us a demo. Come and enjoy the legendary Bangalow spirit at this free family-friendly event. Michael Malloy

Training Starts for the Bluedogs. In 2010 the Bangalow Bluedogs were the biggest senior soccer club in the region with four senior women’s and six senior men’s teams. Along with more than 200 juniors the club has established itself as one of the biggest overall in the Byron Shire and early numbers indicate that 2011 will be another great year.

Senior men’s training starts Tuesday 1 February 6pm, then on Tuesday and Thursday nights. Senior sign-on dates for men and women will be 1 and 15 February at 5.30pm. Mark Shepherd is the First Division coach with Jim Gelagotis as

assistant. Damon Bell is the junior development coach. Info: Paul Hanigan, 0422 827 338, Mark Shepherd 0428 969 817, or www.bangalowbluedogs.com.au

f e b r u a ry d i a ry

1

2

22

23

15

13

Soccer sign-on

Garden Club

bridge lessons start

Landcare working bee

Mystical Poetry fund raiser

Cane toad muster; Scout trial program

a&i Hall memorabilia day

Soccer sign-on

Scout troop investiture

Netball sign-on day

CWa Handicraft day

Coorabell Show

Skatepark fundraiser at Markets

Heritage Walk launch

farmers’ Markets 5, 12, 19, 26Hb deadlines 9 (ads) 16 (Copy)

w h i S p E r r u M o u r g o S S i p C h i T C h a TT o w n T a l k

24 Bangalow’S hEarTBEaT

4

5

6

9

24

26

27

28

Documents

Hearbeat February 2011