Local Garden Guru Phil Dudman (pictured) is a founder of Landshare Australia and says growing your own helps in building friendships as well as growing food.

“Growing your own food is a deeply satisfying experience, but it’s even more rewarding when you’ve got someone to share it with. When you become a Landshare Buddy, you share resources, share ideas, share friendships and of course share in your bounty of the freshest, seasonal homegrown produce,” says Phil.

“Your Landshare Buddy could be an old friend, a family member, next door neighbour, a work colleague or even someone you’ve met or about to meet via the Landshare Australia website.”

Landshare Australia,a website that matches people who are seeking land for growing food with others who have land they are willing to share, began in the Northern Rivers earlier this year.

It is a Northern Rivers Food Links Sustainable Agriculture Project, a food security initiative of the seven Northern Rivers Councils and Rous Water.

“People have joined Landshare Australia throughout the Northern Rivers region offering wonderful opportunities to share their land and their garden space – many are still looking for buddies who are keen to grow and enjoy the whole experience,” says Phil.

The total first prize package worth over $850 includes gardening equipment from Bunnings, seedlings from Farmers’ Choice Organics and fruit trees from Daley’s Fruit Tree Nursery, and an onsite garden design consultation from ABC’s Garden Guru Phil Dudman.

Entry is easy – go to www.landshareaustralia.com.au, register your details, download the entry form and tell in 50 words why you’ve chosen your buddy. Entries close October 28 and the winner will be announced the following week.

The Northern Rivers’ design and development communities as well as guests from Bellingen to Brisbane made the trip to the  resort to enjoy two courses from Head Chef Gavin Hughes and hear David speak.

As to the trends, David pointed out that nowadays whilst there are always different movements from which people can be inspired and educated, design comes down to individual taste and one’s existing home.

He urges people to trust their judgment, take risks and enjoy the process of design, which does not need to be about budget.

“There are so many options these days, not necessarily expensive ones, and it’s important to trust your instincts,” he said.

PICTURES: (Top) Lucy Clark, David Clark and Seana Ryan. (Below) Rhian Paton from Byron Bay with Ava Benny-Morrison. (Bottom) Therese Holland, Kerry Molloy and Gai Lawler.

Having recently returned from the Salone Internazionale del Mobile (International Design Week) in Milan, David invites you to join him on a journey through this year’s key trends, designers and pieces.

Encompassing everything from furniture and lighting to homewares and high-tech pieces created by established talents and rising stars, the event will take place over a two-course meal from Gavin Hughes at the award-winning Byron at Byron Resort and Spa.

A veteran of the interior design industry, David Clark has spent the past 27 years loving and learning about the rich colours, fabrics and designs of the world.

After graduating with a commerce degree, David worked in the fabric industry in Sydney and London before returning to his first love of architecture.

David then completed this second degree, after which he worked as an architect whilst tutoring in design at the University of Queensland.

He began to write for an interior design magazine and was quickly seduced by publishing.

For the past eight years he has been editor of Vogue Living, where he has established himself as an authoritative voice in his field.

“Milan Design Week is my most gruelling but most thrilling week in the year,” he said.

“There is so much interesting, directional and fascinating stuff to see, and so much to share. This talk will be a lot of fun. I’m looking forward to sharing it with Byron Bay.”

David follows the recent sell-out Bettina Arndt dinner in the 2011 series of “Byron at Byron Presents”.

David will be followed by Joanna Savill, co-editor of the Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide, director of Crave Sydney International Food Festival and long-time food journalist, on August 18, who will discuss “Food trends from around the world”.

Design Trends – Dinner and talk with David Clark
7:00pm Thursday June 30, The Byron at Byron Resort and Spa
$65 for two courses, a glass of wine and David
Stay the night from $285.

Bookings essential. 6639 2111 or restaurant@thebyronatbyron.com.au

The forums will showcase successful, innovative and sustainable food production practices in a changing climate.

This is an opportunity to share knowledge with industry experts and see on-farm showcase models for more sustainable food production.

The two keynote speakers will be Murwillumbah’s Greg Reid (Industry & Investment NSW) and Mallanganee’s Stuart Larsson (Mara Seeds).

Forum dates and venues:

• Murwillumbah Tuesday May 3 (Murwillumbah Golf Club, 9-11:30am)
• Ballina Tuesday May 3 (Ballina Beach Resort, 3:30-6pm)
• Casino Wednesday May 4 (Windara Function Centre, 9-11:30am)
• Maclean Wednesday May 4 (Maclean Services Club, 3:30-6pm). 

For more information, or to register: visit www.northernriversfoodlinks.com.au , email events@northernriversfoodlinks.com.au or phone Nyree on 0434 261 070.

There is no charge to attend these events, however RSVP is essential for catering purposes.

Council’s Natural Resource Management Project Officer Sally Jacka reminded residents that possums, like all other native animals, are protected in NSW. This means it is illegal to harm them in any way, which includes trapping and relocating them in another area.

“Research has shown that nearly 100 per cent of relocated possums die within days of their release,” Ms Jacka said.

“Possums are territorial, so will battle with other possums in the area in which they have been relocated. This may result in the possums becoming injured and even dying. A common disease called stress dermatitis may occur as a result of wounds sustained and the stress of the relocation.

“If they do find a new hollow to live in, relocated possums may also displace other wildlife, such as parrots, owls or gliders.”

If you do have a possum living in your roof, a combination of light, smells and an alternative home should encourage the possum to leave.

Here are some tips for removing possums:

• Check your roof to make sure it is a possum living there and not rats. If you hear movement during the day, it is more than likely rats. If you are not sure, you could set a non-lethal trap to check what animals are disturbing you.
• Locate the access points into the roof and identify trees or structures possibly being used to climb up to the roof.
• Place collars made from aluminium or sheet iron around the trunks of trees being used to access the roof and lop any overhanging branches.
• Make or buy a nest box and install it in your garden as an alternative den site for the possum.
• Spread mothballs in the roof to repel the possum. DO NOT USE RAT BAIT as this will cause an extremely painful and cruel death for possums and possibly other wildlife.
• Place a light in the roof and leave it on for three days and nights.
• Once you are sure the possum has left your roof, block off the known entrance points. If you do not do this your efforts will be wasted, as another animal is sure to make its home in your roof.

Tweed residents interested in creating wildlife habitat are encouraged to come along to the ‘Nest Boxes for Wildlife’ Workshop on Saturday 9 April from 10.30am to 2pm at the Pottsville Environmental Centre in Centennial Drive.

The Nest Boxes for Wildlife Workshop is the latest Landcare education event in the Tweed and Byron Shire Council’s Bush Futures Urban Sustainability Project.

Places are limited so please register with Claire on (02) 6670 2199 or csotweed@tweed.nsw.gov.au

PICTURE: A possum peeks from a nest box. Photo credit: Dave Pinson.

“The list of businesses deregistered from operating under the Home Insulation Program sends a strong message to installers and the public that we take non-compliance with the insulation program requirements seriously,” Mr Garrett said.

“All installers working under this program are on notice – if they break the rules, strong action will be taken to ensure they can no longer access payments and now they can also be named to protect householders.

“The consequences of dodgy behaviour for insulation businesses just got a lot tougher.

“There’s no room in this program for businesses who aren’t willing to stand publicly by the quality of their work and who tarnish the work of reputable, hard-working installation businesses.

“We will take swift and tough action against anyone who breaches the terms of registration and the program guidelines.”

Mr Garrett encouraged householders to continue to check their installer is on the Installer Provider Register.

“We have always encouraged householders to shop around until they find a registered installer they’re happy with and to ensure they’re choosing the right product and installation options for their circumstances.”

Mr Garrett also reminded householders that under changes to the scheme that commenced on December 1, they must get at least two independent quotes which are based on a physical site inspection before proceeding to have insulation installed.  

“A mandatory requirement that every house undergo a risk assessment before any work is carried out also commenced on December 1, to improve safety and protection for both householders and installers,” he said.

“These checklists will be subject to random and targeted audits and householders are encouraged to review this assessment prior to work being conducted.

“This new safety requirement comes on top of changes introduced in November requiring the mandatory installation of downlight covers and a ban on the use of metal fasteners.

“Householders should also only sign the work order form when they are satisfied with the work that has been done.”

If householders require further information on installers they are encouraged to contact the information line on 1800 808 571.

All residents and businesses are encouraged to comply with the measures, to ensure sustainable water use throughout the region.

“After extensive public consultation earlier this year, Rous Water and local councils in the Rous region are now implementing permanent water saving measures,” Rous Water chairman Col Sullivan said.

“These voluntary measures will be part of our ongoing commitment to sustainable water use in the region.”

Rous Water general manager Kyme Lavelle said: “In June last year, Rous Water conducted a community survey of attitudes towards permanent water saving measures.

“These measures would be voluntary and separate from the mandatory water restrictions that are implemented during dry times.

“The survey found very strong support within the community for permanent water conservation measures, regardless of dam levels.

“These measures will therefore be in place on an ongoing basis and will ensure sensible and sustainable use of potable water throughout the region.”

Rous Water and the local councils of Ballina, Byron, Lismore and Richmond Valley jointly prepared a list of possible measures and obtained feedback from the community before adopting a final list in mid-August this year.

The measures are now in place and will restrict the use of potable water for activities such as hosing of hard surfaces and garden watering times.

The full list can be seen at the Rous Water website.

Alternatively, community members can contact Rous Water for a copy by calling 1800 450 203.

“As previously announced, there will be changes to the First Home Owners Grant Boost commencing today,” Ms Saffin said.

“As a part of Budget 2009-2010 the Australian Government announced an extension to the First Home Owners Boost until 31 December 2009, with changes to the payment from 1 October 2009. 

“First home buyers who purchase an established house who were eligible for a $14,000 grant will now still be eligible for a $10,500 grant, while those who sign a contract to buy or construct a new home that were eligible for a $21,000 grant will be eligible for a $14,000 grant. After December 31, 2009, the original $7000 First Home Owners Grant will continue.

“A gradual phasing out of the First Home Owners Boost is the responsible way of helping the market to readjust as the grants reduce.

“As a key aspect of the Rudd Government’s stimulus plan, the First Home Owners Boost helped to stimulate not only the building and housing sectors but it also had a flow-on effect which boosted other industries such as retail and hardware. 

“It has been a very successful initiative.

“Figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics show that the Rudd Government’s National Building Economic Stimulus Plan continues to support housing sector jobs and first home buyers, with more than 153,000 Australians using the First Home Owners Boost to the end of August.

“NSW continues to lead the way, with over 53,000 applicants taking up the boost – over one third of the national total.

“First home buyers made up over one quarter of all new loans for owner occupation and overall the number of first home buyers rose by over 73 per cent in July 2009, compared with the same period last year.

“Since the First Home Owners Grant Boost was announced, the amount of houses I have seen for sale be snapped up has just astounded me. 

“Everywhere I go people tell me what a great thing it was and how much it helped them be able to buy their first home.”

Lismore real estate agent Paul Deegan said: “There is no doubt that there has been a boost in sales. The First Home Owners Grant Boost has certainly enabled a lot more people to buy a new home.”

Local business owner Travis Watson was one of the many people to benefit from the First Home Owners Grant Boost. 

“Like most other people I know, without the First Home Owners Grant Boost I would never have been able to save for the deposit to buy a house. With the grant I was able to produce the deposit and buy my first home, which I love. It was the push I needed to go out and buy a house,” Mr Watson said.

Information on the changes to the First Home Owners Grant boost can be found at the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs website at www.fahcsia.gov.au

The school’s garden will receive a makeover, with sponsor Bunnings providing all the plants, mulch and labour needed to establish a new herb and vegetable garden for the school.

Murwillumbah East Public School students are equally thrilled that all their hard work in their garden paid off after taking out the John O’Reilly Memorial ‘Judges’ choice’ perpetual trophy. The school also won the Best Large School Garden category and were placed second in the Schools Garden Project.

The judges were Brad Moore from Council’s Recreation Services Unit and John McIntosh and Mike Toby from Bunnings South Tweed. The trio spent three days touring the gardens of the 22 pre-schools, primary and high schools which entered the competition.

“The standard was fantastic overall and it was great to see so many students and their teachers putting such a big effort into improving their school’s outdoor environment,” Mr Toby said.

“But the number one thing for us, without a doubt, was seeing the kids’ faces and the joy they got from their gardens.”

Special mention was made of the efforts at Tweed Valley College in Murwillumbah, which won the Best School Garden Project Category.
“This project was fantastic with a high level of student involvement,” Mr Toby said.

Judging criteria included student participation, sustainability, cost effectiveness, appearance and originality. There will be an extra category next year, the Sustainable Garden.

Tweed Shire Council and Bunnings jointly funded the $1220 in prizes on offer in this year’s awards.

The winners were:
Best Large School Garden
1st Murwillumbah East Public School
2nd Bogangar Public School
3rd Tweed Heads Public School
Best Small School Garden
1st Tumbulgum Public School
2nd Condong Public School
3rd Crabbes Creek Public School
Best School Garden Project
1st Tweed Valley College
2nd Murwillumbah East Public School
3rd Condong Public School
The John O’Reilly Memorial Schools Award “Judges Choice”
Murwillumbah East Public School
Encouragement Awards:
Murwillumbah South Infants (Grown your own Garden award)
Kingscliff High School
Other Entrants were:
Duranbah Public
Pottsville Beach Public School
Mt Warning Community Pre School
Murwillumbah Public School
Banora Point Primary School
St James Primary
Banora Point High School
Possums Community Pre School
Wallum Community Pre School
Fingal Head Public School
Crystal Creek Public
Tyalgum Public School
Sathya Sai Primary School

Held at the Ballina RSL last Saturday night, the Awards recognised ‘diversity of design and excellence in crafstmanship’ on the North Coast.

Twenty-seven year old Natalie was solely responsible for both the interior design and fitout and building design of the iconic tavern.

Other refurbishments she has completed recently include the Lismore greyhound track, Café Wa in Maclean and Bangalow Hairdressing, as well as numerous residential extensions, renovations and new house designs.

After completing her Bachelor of Design Studies at the Queensland College of Art, Griffith University, in 2002, Natalie planned to move to Sydney to immerse herself in the world of design.

“But after coming back to the Northern Rivers for a break I realised I wanted to stay and contribute,” she said.

“There is incredible talent here – all my suppliers are local. And there is so much scope to improve our streetscapes and living spaces.”

Natalie commissioned giant paintings of horse heads from internationally celebrated Northern Rivers artist Angus McDonald for the Tavern. The illuminated works on glass, which stand three metres tall, bring a contemporary edge to Tavern’s platinum TAB.

“Tommy’s is a really incredible project that would not be out of place in any city in any country,” said Angus.

“Natalie is a hugely talented and creative designer with a big future.”

In 2006 the home at 137 Dawson Street in Lismore that Natalie shared with her partner, builder Nathan Brown, was destroyed in a house fire.

“We were devastated,” said Natalie. “But after some time we felt we wanted to make something positive out of the tragedy, so we set about designing our new home and studio space.”

Located next to Perfix Dry Cleaners, the site now houses two shops, the couple’s home and Natalie’s studio for her business, NW Design.

“We live in the middle of town next to a dry cleaners so the environment was very urban,” Natalie said.

“The building design reflects that. My design is always vernacular, it has to be relevant to the place and the people it is for. The Northern Rivers has so much potential for interesting development and we wanted to set a new standard.”

Natalie often creates clients’ corporate images, as well as looking after their physical premises.

“As a designer it is important to create a unique identity for any business,” said Natalie.

“This means integrated design where the corporate identity is visually linked with the internal and external space.”

To view Natalie’s work visit www.nwdesign.com.au