Kyogle News

LOCAL WOODWORKER AND HIS AWARD-WINNING BAR STOOL

Published

2 years ago

18 May 2023

JeffG

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LOCAL WOODWORKER AND HIS AWARD-WINNING BAR STOOL

By Sarah Waters

The talents of Kyogle woodworker Garan Hale have been recognised on the national stage with one of his furniture creations taking out a top prize.

For more than 40 years, Mr Hale has created solid timber joinery and fine furniture, using traditional joinery methods, for builders, architects and luxury homeowners in the Northern Rivers and Southeast Queensland.

Earlier this month, his bar stool ‘Stella’ won the Sunshine Coast Wootha Prize in the furniture category at The Maleny Wood Expo.

The Maleny Wood Expo is considered one of the best wood shows in Australia.

The Wootha Prize exhibit is a main attraction, which offers wood artisans and furniture makers, from across Australia, the chance to showcase their sustainably crafted pieces.

This year, entrants were invited to explore the theme ‘Dovetails’ which was open to their interpretation.

Mr Hale said after years of working with ‘everything to do with wood’ he was at the point in his career where he wanted to focus predominantly on making furniture.

“I wanted to enter my stool just to get some more exposure for it,” Mr Hale said.

“But it didn’t have any traditional dovetail joints in it, so I thought I’d design a (bird’s) dove tail,” he said.

Mr Hale studied a dove tail, came up with a drawing and experimented with about 40 different feathers he handcrafted.

He estimates the overall process took about 80 hours of work, but he lost count along the way.

“I initially started making the feathers, with a central stem, with a 30-degree angle between the stem and the outer feather.

“I made about 40 feathers of different Australian timbers to get the colours coordinated and the detail of the dove’s tail, before I could start the inlay process.”

Each of the 18 feathers, he decided on for his final design, were inlaid separately into the curved bar stool seat, before being flushed off and detailed.

The local Australian timbers Mr Hale used included red cedar, white cedar, red gum, white beech, tulip oak, silky oak and blue quandong.

He specially wanted to showcase local Australian timber in his design.

“I’m all about the promotion of Australian timber.

“We’ve got some of the best timber in the world and we’ve got more variety of timber on the east coast of Australia, than anywhere else in the world – bar the Amazon.

“From a woodworker’s point of view, it really does start from the forest.

“You really need to understand forestry and the different types of trees … where they grow and where they don’t grow and what trees are the best to use for different types of woodwork.

“Certain types of Australian wood have a class 1 durability, so they’re really good for strength and structure, such as Tallowwood and Crow’s ash, whereas other cabinet timbers are really good to look at.”

Despite Mr Hale’s reputation as a highly talented woodworker, he had never competed in a woodworking competition before and had no expectations about how he was going to go.

“After all these years, I feel confident making anything from wood, but there are a lot of good wood workers around and it’s all up to the judge’s discretion.”

The judges noted ‘the exceptional quality of work and craftsmanship’ in his furniture design.

Mr Hale said he now hopes to bring many of his other designs to life.

“There’s still plenty I want to do – I’ve got all these designs in my head.

“The older I get, the more I realise how lucky I am to be a part of that journey where I’m creating and constantly challenging myself.”

All of Mr Hale’s creations are made from local timber he salvages from trees which have fallen over on farms, bushland or washed up in floods.

He has a factory-style set up at his home, where he mills the timber, strips it back and dries it, a process which can take 12 – 15 months (depending on the season) before he is able to use it for woodwork.

When he is not in his shed working with wood, he spends time regenerating seven acres of native bush on his property.

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Kyogle News

Flood Repairs Begin on Fawcetts Plain Road

Published

1 week ago

27 November 2024

Liam

Flood Repairs Begin on Fawcetts Plain Road

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Flood Repairs Begin on Fawcetts Plain Road

By Jeff Gibbs

Relief is on the horizon for motorists using Fawcetts Plain Road, with major flood repairs set to commence soon. Kyogle Council has secured $2.05 million in funding under the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements to restore the 8.3km road and make critical drainage improvements.

The road sustained significant damage during the 2022 flood event, with conditions worsening over time despite Council’s ongoing patchwork repairs while awaiting funding approval.

Comprehensive Repairs and Timeline

The project, which also includes repairs to Green Pigeon Road and Horseshoe Creek Road, is slated to begin in early December and, weather permitting, should be completed by March 2025.

Kyogle Council Mayor Danielle Mulholland expressed her relief and gratitude for the funding approval.
“Residents have been waiting for quite some time for this news. It’s great that Council can now get on with the job of fixing the road,” she said.

Work Staging to Minimise Disruption

To ensure efficiency and protect newly repaired sections, Council has scheduled work as follows:

Green Pigeon and Horseshoe Creek Roads will be addressed first to avoid heavy construction vehicles traveling over the freshly repaired Fawcetts Plain Road.
Following the completion of these roads, Council crews will focus on Fawcetts Plain Road, starting with drainage works, including:
- Reinstating and cleaning drains
- Installing new culverts

Council aims to finish the Green Pigeon and Horseshoe Creek Road repairs and start drainage work on Fawcetts Plain Road before Christmas.

Traffic Management

Fawcetts Plain Road will remain open under traffic control during the project to minimise disruption for residents and motorists.

This repair initiative represents a significant step toward restoring safe and reliable infrastructure for the community. Residents are encouraged to remain patient and cautious while the work is underway.

For more information or updates on the project, contact Kyogle Council directly.

For more local news, click here.

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Ballina News

Northern Rivers Election results to date

Published

3 months ago

18 September 2024

Liam

Northern Rivers Election results to date

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Northern Rivers Election results to date

By Samantha Elley

NSW voted for their council representatives over the weekend and while results aren’t finalised, we have compiled the results so far at time of printing (Monday 16th of September).

Ballina

Residents of the coastal local government area showed they have been happy with the work Sharon Cadwallader has been doing as mayor. She is currently sitting at 45.08% of the vote with her nearest rival, the Greens Kiri Dicker. a long way back at 25.79%

A ward favourites include the Greens Erin Karsten on 20.73%, Independent Damian Loone following closely at 17.35% and ALP’s Maria Marshall on 14.07%, although Independent’s Kevin Loughrey is close on her heels at 13.52%.

B ward has larger margins with Sharon Cadwallader taking 36.12% of the vote then Kiri Dicker, much closer than in the mayoral race at 31.34%. After that the closest candidate is ALP’s Andrew Broadley on 11.65%.

C ward has the Greens Simon Chate leading the chase on 36.21%, followed by Independent Simon Kinny on 28.47% and another Independent These Crollick on 15.12%

Byron

Current mayor Michael Lyon’s recent public issues are reflected in the sad results of his race to get back in the top job, with his mayoral vote hitting a paltry 17.29% compared to Sarah Ndiaye of the Greens who is sitting on 34.71%. However, there is a chance ALP’s Asren Pugh is not discounted yet with 30.37% of the vote.

The Greens also have a chance of strong representation on council as Group D holds 40.22% of votes for their council candidates, followed by the ALP at 27.95%.

Kyogle

While it has been tradition that elected councillors in Kyogle voted for the mayor, residents of this inland local government area had the extra task of deciding in a referendum question, whether or not they wanted a popularly elected mayor and a reduction in the ward numbers or the status quo. Results at time of printing were not available.

A ward’s most popular candidate thus far is Brett McNamara with 31.15% of the vote, followed by Kieran Somerville with 26.67% and long-standing councillor Janet Wilson at 18.40%.

B ward’s winning candidate is currently Olivia Taylor with 34.03%, then current councillor John Burley 25% and Robert Cullen on 19.29%.

In C ward popular councillor and previous mayor Danielle Mulholland holds 40.88% of the vote with Tom Cooper on 21.06% coming second and Robin Harley on 13.63% holding the bronze.

Lismore

There is no doubting the popularity of current mayor Steve Krieg who looks like holding his seat with 48.38% of the vote, trailed by the Greens Vanessa Grindon-Ekins on 21.13%.

The Independent Group A look like, not only getting their mayor back in but will fill a few seats around the council table with 42.39% of votes.

They are followed by the Greens Group D with 26.77% and ALP’s Group B holding 18.77%.

Richmond Valley

It looks like business as usual for the Richmond Valley with mayor Robert Mustow holding a comfortable lead to retain his role on 38.93%. He was given a run for his money by newcomer Lyndall Murray in the early part of counting before she settled around 27.17%.

There should be a mixture of new and old faces on council with Group D, led by the current mayor, Robert Mustow receiving 41.42% of the vote and newcomers, with Lyndall Murray, Group C, second with 25.69%. Group A led by previous Richmond Valley general manager, John Walker obtained a healthy 20.51%.

Tweed

A large number of parties were vying for all council positions with the current group with most votes being the Liberals with 28.74%. ALP are a comfortable second on 14.96% and Independent Group A, led by current mayor, Chris Cherry in third with 13.42%.

To keep up to date with the Northern Rivers Elections Results, click here.

For more local elections news, click here.

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Kyogle News

Meet your Kyogle candidates

Published

3 months ago

29 August 2024

Liam

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Meet your Kyogle candidates

By Samantha Elley

The Northern Rivers Times has asked all of the candidates for the September 14 local government elections to introduce themselves to voters identify the issues they want to address and policies they would pursue if elected.

A Ward Kyogle Candidates

Brett McNamara

Brett McNamara brings a professional skill set with 40 years in national parks, local government, and budget management. He is focused on renewal, civic pride, and effective governance. With strong people management skills, he envisions Kyogle as a place for families, creativity, and prosperity. Brett is committed to listening and serving with respect and compassion.

To find out more about Brett McNamara, click here.

Brett McNamara

Kieran Somerville

Kieran Somerville, with credentials in Environmental Management and Regenerative Agriculture, advocates for sustainable development, transparent decision-making, and strong support for farming. He promotes local businesses, arts, culture, and environmental protection. Kieran holds a Bachelor’s in Environmental Management and a Graduate Diploma in Regenerative Agriculture, working as an environmental consultant and farm co-manager.

To find out more about Kieran Somerville, click here.

Douglas Layton

Lives at Kyogle and is retired.

Naomi Worrall

Naomi Worrall has spent two decades working in social housing, from frontline services to government reforms. She recently built a small business focused on baking and growing flowers. With extensive volunteer experience in governance roles, Naomi is dedicated to ensuring efficient and accessible government services and is passionate about serving the Kyogle community.

To find out more about Kieran Somerville, click here.

Janet Wilson

Experience and knowledge with local government, community development and engagement. Strong interest in governance, engagement with residents and other levels of government to achieve best outcomes in the public interest.

To find out more about Janet Wilson, click here.

B Ward Kyogle Candidates

Neil Summerville

A long-time resident of Sextonville, having lived there since 1989, and with family ties to Babyl Creek since 1972, the candidate is motivated by the high maintenance costs of vehicles on rural roads. With over 20 years of boardroom experience, including as deputy chair of Northern Co-op Meat Company, he brings significant leadership experience, including roles as chairman of the NSW Livestock Health and Pest Authority and North East Pest Animal Advisory Committee.

To find out more about Neil Summerville, click here.

Neil Summerville

Glenn Robinson

Glenn Robinson, who moved into town nearly 10 years ago, is running for council to promote transparency and community trust. He values good listening, communication, and collaboration among councillors. As a new candidate, he’s eager to learn and focused on representing the community’s best interests, aiming to restore public confidence in local government.

To find out more about Glenn Robinson, click here.

Glenn Robinson

Robert Cullen

Robert Cullen, a fifth-generation resident of B Ward since 1849, seeks re-election to continue improving Kyogle. Passionate about maintaining the area’s quality of life, he focuses on road improvements, communication, supporting local businesses, and enhancing volunteer organizations. Active in seven volunteer groups, Robert manages the Farmers’ Market and is committed to community service.

To find out more about Robert Cullen, click here.

Robert Cullen

John Burley

Has been a councillor of B Ward for three terms from 2012 to 2024. Lives at Horse Station Creek.

Olivia Taylor

I have a strong professional and academic background. I am a person of good character and always bring integrity to my professional and public life. I completed a double degree in a Bachelor of Politics and International Relations/Bachelor of Laws, I then became a fully qualified lawyer. I have always been involved in the communities in which I live, usually by volunteer work and helping those in need. I have experience as an advocate and always act ethically.

To find out more about Olivia Taylor, click here.

C Ward Kyogle Candidates

Simon Dejoux

Simon Dejoux, a property owner at Gradys Creek since the late 1990s, is committed to restoring integrity, transparency, and honesty to the council. With nearly 40 years of experience across various sectors, he aims to address key issues like roads, aged care, youth, and supporting local agriculture. He advocates for better planning and service equity for villages and smaller communities.

To find out more about Simon Dejoux, click here.

Simon Dejoux

Danielle Mulholland

A full-time councillor and part-time lawyer with 25 years at Gradys Creek, the candidate has served three terms on Council and aims to address the roads and bridges backlog, support sustainable communities, improve village infrastructure, and rebuild trust between the community and Council. They are committed to fulfilling promises with honesty and integrity.

To find out more about Danielle Mulholland, click here.

Danielle Mulholland

Ian Murrell

Ian Murrell, a Kyogle resident since 2016, is running for council to bring fresh perspectives to the democratic process. An ex-clinical nurse and cabinetmaker, Ian values community input and plans to run workshops to understand local concerns. He has been active in community organisations and believes in creating a great place to live and work.

To find out more about Ian Murrell, click here.

Ian Murrell

Thomas Cooper

Thomas Cooper, a 28-year resident of Bonalbo, is running for Ward C to complete major projects like the $50 million Clarence Valley Way upgrade. He emphasises the need for a high-caliber general manager, local economic growth, and infrastructure improvements. Thomas opposes the referendum for a popularly voted mayor, advocating for community-focused governance.

To find out more about Thomas Cooper, click here.

Thomas Cooper

Earle Grundy

Is a non-resident but has been a councillor of Kyogle Shire.

James Murray

Previously a councillor of Kyogle from 2022 – 2024 and lives at Grady’s Creek. He holds a certificate in Agriculture and is a farmer and timber contractor.

Robin Harley

Lives at Kyogle.

For more 2024 Local Elections News, click here.