Casino NSW News

Casino VRA Open Day

Published

1 year ago

21 July 2022

JeffG

Casino VRA Open Day

Story by Lara Leahy
Image by Lara Leahy

The VRA are an integral part of the safety and security when it comes to rescue on our roads, at places of work and in our homes. They have had a solid presence in Casino since September 1980 which has been largely supported by local donations and people. Their professional approach and the tasks they accomplish for the community is a testimony to the Integrity and dedication of its members. Casino VRA are opening its doors this month, so you can get a glimpse inside the organisation.

The VRA are involved in various roles in the community. In rescue operations they attend road crashes, animal rescues, industrial and domestic entrapments – whether it’s a ring stuck on a finger or machinery, swift water rescue and USAR or Urban Search and Rescue. But they also attend community events in supportive roles.

The Open Day on Sunday July 24th is so the community can learn first-hand about who they are, what they do and how they do it.

Melanie Brenton is an active General Land Rescue operator which means she is accredited to attend road accidents. She has been involved for eight years. Mel’s initial motivation was to meet people and become more involved in the community, but she has benefitted so much more from the experience, “I feel very proud of the people, our capability and resources in the team. We function as a smooth unit which is important. We trust each other and there is a great sense of professionalism and contribution.”

“At the open day there will be an opportunity to see how one of the rescue vehicles is set up for operations. We will do a live demonstration of a rescue from a car, and you can speak to the members and learn more about how to get involved,” Paul Cowles, the Deputy Region Coordinator, says “It’s a great way of giving back to the community in a different way.” There will also be a sausage sizzle.

Women and men over 18 are invited to become involved. Paul confirms, “For those that are interested, the training is free and accredited nationwide.” Melanie says.
“There are many options and paths you can take. The training and mentoring are constant. I feel like I have been nurtured for my whole eight-year journey. The experience of those supporting you is important – some are founding members. Next, I’d like to train in flood rescue, which is a personal interest for me.

“Working with other services is part of the role – firies, SES, ambulance and the police,” Mel says.
“When you rescue anything, even a cat and the tears of a family turn to smiles, it is such a good feeling. We are a small team, but we have a mighty impact!”

The open day is on Sunday July 24th at the VRA headquarters on Graham place in Casino. It starts at 11am and goes until 2pm. All are welcome.

Read the full story in The Northern Rivers Times – Download here

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Strong interest for NRLX leasing proposal

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1 hour ago

5 December 2023

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Strong interest for NRLX leasing proposal

Strong interest for NRLX leasing proposal

RICHMOND Valley Council advises the conclusion of the tender submission period for the leasing of the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange (NRLX).

According to global real estate experts JLL, which is managing the tender process for Council, the leasing proposal garnered widespread attention and interest from industry-leading entities with multiple submissions received.

Council’s General Manager Vaughan Macdonald said having JLL manage the tendering was instrumental in ensuring a thorough evaluation of proposals was undertaken to make sure the selected proponent aligned with Council’s objectives for the NRLX and brought value to the whole Richmond Valley community.

“JLL’s team will now carefully review each proposal, assessing them against the tender criteria and provide advice to Council to determine the best proposal for the lease of the facility,” Mr Macdonald said.

“The aim is for Council to make the necessary decisions during December and, subject to a satisfactory proposal being received, authorise the finalisation of the lease for the facility.

“Council shares the community’s desire to have the NRLX back operating, with the intention to have it re-open as soon as possible in 2024.”

Casino Beef Week

Casino Beef Week Announces The Brenda Armfield Street Parade and 2024 Theme

Published

3 weeks ago

15 November 2023

Liam

Brenda Armfield with Casino Beef Week Committee and Staff

Casino Beef Week Announces The Brenda Armfield Street Parade and 2024 Theme

In a significant and heartwarming announcement at the Casino Beef Week Members’ party, Brody Lisha, the President of Casino Beef Week, revealed that starting in 2024, the festival’s beloved street parade will be renamed as “The Brenda Armfield Street Parade” in honour of Brenda Armfield’s invaluable contributions to the community and the festival.

Brody Lisha, during his speech, stated, “Brenda, for years, you have been the custodian of our traditions, the herald of our successes, and the comfort in our times of challenge. The renaming of our street parade is not just a change of name; it’s a recognition of the profound impact you’ve had on Casino Beef Week and our community.”

Brenda Armfield with Casino Beef Week Committee and Staff

Additionally, the theme for Casino Beef Week 2024 was announced as “Retro Rewind; Celebrating the best of the 80s and 90s.” This theme is expected to bring an exciting and nostalgic flair to the festival.

Event coordinator Jacob Stone also shared his enthusiasm: “This year’s theme, ‘Retro Rewind,’ is a perfect homage to the vibrant eras of the 80s and 90s. It reflects our community’s spirit of looking back with fondness while marching forward with excitement. We can’t wait to see everyone embracing this theme in the newly named Brenda Armfield Street Parade.”

Casino Beef Week, scheduled from 18th to 26th May 2024, promises to be a spectacular event, marked by the significant renaming of its street parade and the engaging retro theme. The community and visitors alike are encouraged to join in the celebrations, where they will experience the inaugural “Brenda Armfield Street Parade” and be transported back to the iconic eras of the 80s and 90s.

For more Local Casino Beef Week news, click here.

Business News

Council opens tender process to lease NRLX

Published

4 weeks ago

8 November 2023

Liam

Council opens tender process to lease NRLX

Richmond Valley Council is moving forward with its decision to lease the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange (NRLX), with tenders to be called from Thursday 26 October 2023.

Council has appointed global real estate experts JLL to manage the tender process independently.

The process will see JLL handle all inquiries, receive tenders from potential lessees, and evaluate them thoroughly for Council’s final consideration.

Richmond Valley Council General Manager Vaughan Macdonald said JLL’s experience would help Council to find a lessee with a shared vision for the NRLX.

“With significant funding support from the Australian and NSW Governments, Council has invested more than $15 million to transform the saleyards into a modern, professional facility and, under our management, the NRLX has progressed to be one of the leading saleyards in NSW,” Mr Macdonald said.

“We want to continue this journey by partnering with a lessee who is well-equipped to take the NRLX to the next level and develop the facility in a way that benefits our community and the broader livestock industry.

Richmond Valley Council is moving forward with its decision to lease the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange (NRLX)

He said the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange played a crucial role in our region, supporting beef producers and buyers while contributing significantly to the regional economy.

“We believe that by inviting tenders and securing the right lessee, we can unlock the full potential of this facility and ensure its continued success for years to come,” Mr Macdonald said.

“We’re confident that JLL has the right experience to manage this process professionally and transparently and Council looks forward to receiving their final recommendations”.

Tenders close 30 November, with the aim to appoint a successful tenderer in December, who takes control of the NRLX business early in 2024. Tender inquiries can be made to JLL representatives Chris Holger (0411 177 167) or Clayton Smith (0428 878 523).

For more Casino news, click here.