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Lismore News

MAZDA BT-50 XTR 4X4 DUAL-CAB UTE

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MAZDA BT-50 XTR 4X4 DUAL-CAB UTE
Mazda BT-50 . . . it’s a good thing but the real question is: Has Mazda done enough?

MAZDA BT-50 XTR 4X4 DUAL-CAB UTE

Mazda BT-50 . . . it’s a good thing but the real question is: Has Mazda done enough?

By CHRIS RILEY

For ute watchers, Mazda’s BT-50 has more in common with the Isuzu D-Max than it does the Ford Ranger these days.
After they parted ways, Mazda did a deal with Isuzu while Volkswagen went looking for something to turn into the next Amarok.
For its part Mazda reportedly had little input into the design process and as a result BT-50 is simply a re-skinned version of D-Max, although that’s probably a little harsh.
To put this in perspective, Isuzu has enjoyed meteoric success with the latest D-Max, which has stormed the top sellers list, providing a solid launching pad for Mazda — the real question is whether it has done enough?

STYLING
The new BT-50 looks more refined and car-like — a bit like the last Falcon in fact.
From the rear however the look is generic ute, with vertical tail lights replacing the stylised triangular of the previous model.
The ‘ruggedly stylish’ XTR 4×2 with an auto is $49,470, XTR 4×4 with a manual is $54,710 and the 4×4 auto is $57,210 — all prices before on-road costs.
Standard kit includes 17-inch alloys, cloth trim and manual air, carpeted floors, power windows, power adjust mirrors, LED headlights, auto lights and wipers, rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beam and traffic sign recognition and walk away automatic locking.
The XTR adds 18-inch alloys, side steps, power fold mirrors, advanced keyless entry and push-button start, LED fog lights, LED headlights with auto levelling, LED daytime running lights, dual-zone climate air with rear vents, leather wrapped steering wheel and gear knob, auto-dimming rear view mirror and centre armrest for the rear seat.

INTERIOR

MAZDA BT-50 XTR 4X4 DUAL-CAB UTE

MAZDA BT-50 XTR 4X4 DUAL-CAB UTE

The cabin is trimmed in cloth with dual zone climate air conditioning, rear air vents for back seat passengers and a splash of leather for the wheel and transmission lever.
Style-wise the main difference between BT-50 and the D-Max is the centre console which has higher sides in the Mazda to prevent items from falling out.
The wheel is reach and height adjustable, while the seats have manual adjustment for rake, slide, height and lumbar support.
The screen, unlike other Mazdas, is touch sensitive, with no central control knob (but no volume control knob either).
Analogue instrument gauges flank a central info screen where speed can be displayed digitally, and traffic sign recognition keeps the driver informed of the current speed limit.

INFOTAINMENT
The infotainment system comprises a 7.0-inch touchscreen and two-speaker audio with Bluetooth streaming, AM/FM and DAB+ digital radio, Android Auto and Wireless Apple CarPlay — plus single USB and 12V outlets.
In the XTR this is upped to a 9.0-inch touchscreen with eight speakers and satellite navigation.
A new speaker is mounted in the headlining, while a 6×9-inch woofer delivers powerful bass response and two-way dome tweeters emit clear mid- to high-range sounds.
Dash-mounted and rear door ‘balanced dome’ tweeters use a voice coil and dome-shaped diaphragm to create impressive depth.

ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS
The BT-50 is powered by a turbo-diesel 3.0-litre, four-cylinder engine that generates 140kW of power and 450Nm of torque, the latter between 1600 and 2600 rpm.
The new power plant features an aluminium-alloy head and cast-iron engine block, chain-driven double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, drive-by-wire throttle control and a Variable Geometry System turbocharger.
Two-wheel drive models all get a six-speed auto, while the 4×4 version is offered with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic.
You can change gears manually using the shifter with the auto, but steering wheel mounted change paddles are not provided.

SAFETY
An extensive, five-star safety package includes eight airbags, reverse camera and Autonomous Emergency Braking.
There’s also Attention Assist, Blind Spot Monitor, Emergency Lane Keeping Assist – Overtaking, Emergency Stop Signal, Automatic High Beam, Hill Descent Control, Hill Launch Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Departure Prevention, Lane-keep Assist System (automatic models), Locking Rear Differential (4×4 models), Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Roll Over Protection, Secondary Collision Reduction, Speed Assist System, Traction Control System and Turn Assist.

DRIVING

MAZDA BT-50 XTR 4X4 DUAL-CAB UTE

MAZDA BT-50 XTR 4X4 DUAL-CAB UTE

The drive experience is slow, heavy and truck-like overall. Depending on what you’re looking for, this may not be as bad as it sounds.
On a more positive note, it’s a relaxed, easy vehicle to drive that cruises effortlessly and uses hardly any fuel for a vehicle this size. You’ve gotta like that.
New BT-50 weighs up to 50kg less than the previous Ford-based models.
With a 76-litre tank, we were getting 7.8 litres per hundred kilometres over more than 500 kilometres of testing in various conditions.
Front suspension is independent via upper and lower wishbones with coil springs, gas-filled telescopic dampers and a stabiliser bar.
For the rear a semi-elliptic leaf with alloy-steel spring leaves and gas-filled telescopic dampers ensure maximum reliability and car-like ride and handling qualities.
Speed-sensitive, power-assisted rack and pinion steering is standard across the range, with 3.84 turns to lock
The switch to 4×4 is via a rotary knob located in the lower part of the console, with high and low range available — as well as a locking rear differential with the auto.
This model has excellent t ground clearance of 240mm and can handle an impressive 800mm of water, but we worry about the side steps which are almost guaranteed to be dented off road.
All grades and body types are fitted with under-body protection to guard against damage off-road or in rural areas.
The XTR can carry a 1090kg payload and pull a 3500kg braked trailer.
The cargo box is 1571mm long, 1530mm wide and 490mm deep, with 1120mm between the wheel arches and four tie-down points.
Our test vehicle had a tray liner, but the liner is optional.
There are two IsoFix and two top tether child seat anchor points.
Servicing intervals are 12 months or 15,000km and it comes with a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty.

SUMMING UP
BT-50 ticks all the right boxes. It’s a fine ute and certainly fit for purpose.
But still looks too refined and car-like. Too much like a Falcon in fact and look what happened to it.
Ranger on the other has delivered incredible sales results largely on the back of its blunt, chiseled macho styling and carefully crafted ‘tough as nails’ image.
Plenty of black trim helps too. That’s, demonstrably, is what buyers want and that’s what Mazda needs to provide — it’s not rocket science guys.

AT A GLANCE

XTR Dual Cab Pickup (auto) $57,210
Note: This price does not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Mazda dealer for drive-away prices.

SPECIFICATIONS (Mazda BT-50 XTR 3.0L Turbo 4-cylinder diesel 6sp automatic 4×4 Dual Cab Pickup)

ENGINE:
Capacity: 3.0 litres
Configuration: Four cylinders in line
Maximum Power: 140 kW @ 3600 rpm
Maximum Torque: 450 Nm @ 1600-2600 rpm
Fuel Type: Diesel
Combined Fuel Cycle (ADR 81/02): 8.0 L/100km
CO2 Emissions: Euro 5

DRIVELINE: Six-speed automatic, 4×4

DIMENSIONS, WEIGHT AND CAPACITIES:
Length: 5280 mm
Wheelbase: 3125 mm
Width: 1870 mm
Height: 1785 mm
Turning Circle: 12.5 metres
Kerb Mass: 2030 kg
Fuel Tank Capacity: 76 litres

BRAKES:
Front: Ventilated disc
Rear: Drum

STANDARD WARRANTY:
Five years / unlimited kilometres

RATINGS:
Looks: 7.5/10
Performance: 7.5/10
Safety: 8/10
Thirst: 8/10
Practicality: 7.5/10
Comfort: 7.5/10
Tech: 8/10
Value: 8/10
Overall: 7.75/10

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Lismore News

Northern Rivers Rail Trail workshop aims to boost local business opportunities

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Construction on the Lismore to Bentley section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail

Northern Rivers Rail Trail workshop aims to boost local business opportunitiesNorthern Rivers Rail Trail workshop aims to boost local business opportunities

 

Lismore City Council is stepping up efforts to empower local businesses as construction progresses on the Lismore to Bentley section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail (NRRT).

Council hosted a workshop this week designed to guide local operators on ways to capitalise on the potential marketing and sales opportunities the trail will provide, through the anticipated surge in tourism.

The 16.3km stretch from Lismore to Bentley has seen significant development since its commencement in January, with substantial strides including the removal of railway infrastructure, finalisation of designs, and completion of approximately 5kms of track.

Council is on track to deliver the Lismore section in late 2024. This section will connect with the Casino to Bentley section, which opens on Saturday, 23 March.

Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg emphasised the workshop’s significance as part of a series designed to equip local businesses with insights into the diverse demographics of Rail Trail users and their preferred visitor experiences.

“In the first four months, the Tweed section of the Rail Trail attracted more than 70,500 people, smashing expectations of 27,000 people a year,” he said.

Construction on the Lismore to Bentley section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail

Construction on the Lismore to Bentley section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail

With the impending influx of tourists, the council is urging local businesses to gear up for the economic boom and ensure the delivery of top-notch experiences. Simultaneously, the council remains dedicated to leveraging the Rail Trail as a catalyst for economic growth within the community.

Mayor Krieg also hinted at the exciting prospects the Rail Trail holds for the Lismore community.

“The Lismore to Bentley section promises to substantially benefit the entire community by providing a fun and safe accessible pathway for walkers, cyclists, horse riders and people using mobility aids to enjoy and connect to our natural environment, as well as more job opportunities,” he said.

Lismore City Council Manager Destination and Economy Tina Irish echoed the sentiment, calling the Trail a game changer for the region.

“With insights gleaned from the Tweed section’s successful launch, we can maximise our preparation”, she said.

“We know that over 94% of Northern Rivers Rail Trail visitors expressed a desire to return to the trail, we know the most popular days of the week, times of the day and how visitors like to experience the trail.

“We want to share this with our business community to help make the Lismore to Bentley section the best experience it can be so are working on some exciting new business initiatives with our community as part of Lismore’s Rail Trail offerings.”

The Lismore to Bentley leg of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail is funded by the Australian Government’s Building Better Regions program and is poised to unlock a wealth of opportunities for local businesses and communities alike.

To stay up to date on the Lismore to Bentley section of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail or to enquire about workshops and business development support, go to here. 

 

For more local Lismore news, click here.

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LISMORE’S 2024 SENIORS FESTIVAL

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LISMORE’S 2024 SENIORS FESTIVAL

LISMORE’S 2024 SENIORS FESTIVAL

From 11-22 March, Lismore’s 2024 Seniors Festival will offer a great range of free activities for people over 55.

The events include:
Local historian Adele Wessell will lead a workshop, discussing how family recipes can be valuable pieces of history.
Dr Norman Swan, in conversation with Jenny Dowell, will discuss insights from his new book, So You Want to Live Younger, Longer?

There will be a craft talk with the Goonellabah Library Craft Group and the Men’s Shed, as well as scam-awareness and advanced life planning law talks.
Karen Viggers, author of The Orchardist’s Daughter, will talk about her new book, Sidelines, a gripping portrayal of the volatile world of youth sports.
A social trivia night at the East Lismore Bowling Club—with prizes to be won.

There are exercise events and a guided walk in the local Birdwing Butterfly gully.

The full Lismore Senior’s Festival program can be viewed here: Lismore Seniors Festival 2024 Lismore City Council
Bookings are required. You can book with Lismore City Council on (02) 6625 0500, via email at contact.centre@lismore.nsw.gov.au or in person at the LCC Corporate Centre at 43 Oliver Avenue Goonellabah.

Lismore’s 2024 Seniors Festival is funded by Lismore City Council and NSW Government. It is supported by: Richmond Tweed Regional Library, Goonellabah Sports and Aquatic Centre, Lismore Regional Gallery, Lismore Croquet Club, Lismore City Bowling Club and Goonellabah Tucki Landcare Inc.

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Lismore City Council prepares for cultural visit to sister city Yamato Takada, Japan

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Lismore City Council prepares for cultural visit to sister city Yamato Takada, Japan

Lismore City Council prepares for cultural visit to sister city Yamato Takada, Japan

As part of the preparations for the landmark 60th-anniversary visit to Yamato Takada, Japan, Lismore City Council recently held an information evening for the nine-member delegation set to immerse themselves in a four-day journey exploring the vibrant cultural landscape of the Sister City as well as taking part in the Cherry Blossom Festival between 1 and 4 April.

The meeting at the Council Chambers was held to equip the delegates with essential knowledge about Japanese customs, etiquette and expectations to ensure a respectful and meaningful cultural exchange.

The delegation, includes a selection of six self-funded community members who nominated to represent the city, joining three Councillors, including Mayor Krieg, Cr Bing and Cr Ekins.

All delegates fund their own associated costs, including accommodation and airfares.

All participants expressed their passion for travelling as ambassadors for Lismore, fostering cross-cultural understanding and collaboration with our Sister City Yamato Taka-da.

Lismore City Council prepares for cultural visit to sister city Yamato Takada, Japan

Members of the delegation with Cr Andrew Bing (third from left) Mayor Krieg, Cr Ekins.

Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg said the visit to Yamato Takada, will strengthen the long-standing relationship between the two cities and mark a significant milestone in the partnership.

“Yamato Takada City Council extended an invitation to our community for delegates to visit during the Cherry Blossom Sakura season, which holds cultural and social importance,” he said.

“The information night was geared to ensure we were fully prepared to appropriately respect the Japanese attire, dining etiquette, greetings and other customs to deeply engage with our hosts and honour the traditions of Yamato Takada.“

“The Lismore City Council is grateful for Yamato Takada’s warm invitation and looks forward to a successful visit that further solidifies the sister city relationship.”

Among the delegates is Julie Burton, an enthusiastic junior coach at the Far North Coast Table Tennis Club. She said she is embarking on a mission to bridge cultures and sports by connecting with her Japanese sister city.

“My motivation to go is to hopefully create a connection with the Yamato Takada Table Tennis Club by meeting someone face to face so I can invite them to our club in Goonellabah,” she said.

“Some of the best Table Tennis players in the world come from Japan and it’s their second biggest sport, so it’s a worthwhile journey to forge this connection. We could certainly learn a lot from them and empower our own club”

When the delegates arrive in Japan, they will embark on a visit celebrating the breathtaking Sakura season and the enduring partnership between Lismore and Yamato Takada.

Highlights of the visit will include cherry blossom viewing at Onaka Park, meetings with Mayor Horiuchi and other dignitaries, tours of local landmarks, including Kashihara Shrine and insights into the region’s disaster recovery efforts caused by landslides.

At its core, this journey symbolises a shared commitment to fostering cultural, economic, and educational exchanges, laying the foundation for a brighter, more interconnected future.

By fostering meaningful connections and collaborations, this visit aims to not only strengthen the bonds of friendship but also to cultivate prosperity and growth for both communities.

Lismore City Council is thankful for Yamato Takada’s warm invitation. It is committed to ensuring that this visit strengthens the bonds of friendship and cooperation that have flourished over the past 60 years.

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