NSW Government’s Tough Stance on Fire Ants Pays Off – Crackdown on Rogue Businesses Results in Major Fines

The Minns Labor Government’s commitment to protecting NSW from the devastating impact of red imported fire ants is delivering real results. Two Queensland businesses have been convicted and fined a total of $60,000 for breaching biosecurity laws aimed at keeping fire ants out of the state. This victory highlights the effectiveness of the government’s increased surveillance, compliance, and enforcement measures.

Since being elected in 2023, the Minns Labor Government has prioritized biosecurity, increasing funding to fight fire ants from $15 million annually to $95 million over four years. This bold action is aimed at ensuring NSW communities, homes, farms, and natural landscapes remain safe from this invasive species.

Major Recent Prosecutions:

• Brytarbri Pty Ltd (Allenview Turf) was convicted of nine offences for moving soil, turf underlay, and compost from the Queensland fire ant-infested area into NSW without required biosecurity certificates.
• Marlyn Compost was convicted of 20 offences for illegally moving turf without certification.

To strengthen the fight against fire ants, NSW Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty introduced a complete ban on turf movement from Queensland’s infested zones in November 2024. This tough approach is helping keep the threat at bay while sending a strong message to rogue businesses.

Operation Victa – Keeping NSW Safe

The Government’s border enforcement initiative, Operation Victa, is a prime example of how coordinated efforts are stopping fire ants before they spread. So far, the operation has conducted four waves of inspections, resulting in:

• 352 vehicles stopped, with 156 from fire ant-infested areas.
• 12 vehicles turned back to Queensland for failing to meet certification standards.
• 8 penalty notices issued and 3 warnings.

In addition, fire ant sniffer dogs have been deployed in Kyogle and Tweed Valley to monitor trucks and landscaping sites, while border checkpoints use CCTV and Police cooperation to prevent illegal movements.

Ongoing Surveillance and Community Involvement

The Minns Labor Government has launched an extensive surveillance program that relies on cutting-edge technology and community reporting to detect any potential threats. Since December 2023, the fire ant team has achieved the following:

• 1,366 voluntary community reports checked for potential fire ant sightings.
• 12,750 Record of Movement declarations from businesses.
• 1,613 surveillance operations conducted across the state.

A Clear Message from Minister Tara Moriarty

“The Minns Labor Government is serious about stopping fire ants from entering NSW. There will be no tolerance for businesses that flout our biosecurity controls and threaten our state’s homes, farms, and natural landscapes. The full force of the law will be applied to anyone who compromises the safety of our communities.

“We’re using monitoring, CCTV, police support, sniffer dogs, and border checks to prevent the spread of fire ants. I urge everyone to comply with biosecurity requirements or report those who aren’t. Together, we can protect NSW from this menace.”

The Minns Labor Government remains committed to working with the Queensland Government to eradicate the fire ant infestation, ensuring regional NSW remains protected, connected, and thriving.

For more information on biosecurity regulations and fire ant control, visit the NSW Department of Primary Industries website.

Tweed Citizen of the Year 2025: Mic Julien

By Ian Rogers

Mic Julien from Tyalgum has been named the Tweed Citizen of the Year for 2025 at the Australia Day Awards ceremony held at the Whitehorse Theatre, Southern Cross University in Murwillumbah.

Mic, a retired scientist turned dedicated volunteer, has transformed Tyalgum with his leadership, making it a safer, more vibrant, and resilient community. His tireless efforts include managing local crown lands, securing grants for playgrounds, skateparks, and campgrounds, and volunteering with the Rural Fire Service and the Tyalgum Scratchers gardening group.

Presenting the award, Mayor Chris Cherry commended Mic’s contributions:

“Our community relies on leaders like Mic to protect our spaces and help the Tweed thrive. His work in enhancing emergency preparedness and securing critical infrastructure, like a radio repeater station for disaster communication, has strengthened Tyalgum’s resilience and the broader Tweed community.”

The ceremony, hosted by Council’s General Manager Troy Green, celebrated winners across seven categories and was attended by dignitaries including Federal Member for Richmond Justine Elliot MP, State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin MP, Mayor Cherry, Deputy Mayor Meredith Dennis OAM, and other Tweed Shire councillors.

The event also featured a Citizenship Ceremony, where 32 residents from 10 countries, including Sweden, Vietnam, and Brazil, were officially welcomed as Australian citizens.

Tweed Citizen of the Year, Mic Julien receives his award from Mayor of Tweed Shire, Chris Cherry.

2025 Tweed Australia Day Award Winners

Arts and Culture: Tweed Coast Band

For over 30 years, the Tweed Coast Band has provided a space for retired musicians to connect and perform. From energising local markets to performing at retirement villages, their music fosters joy and community spirit.

Community Event of the Year: Murbah Youth Fest

Organised by the Murwillumbah Youth Action Group, the Murbah Youth Fest offers a safe, welcoming space for youth to connect, enjoy performances, and access drug and alcohol education. The event also fosters leadership and teamwork skills among its youth organisers.

Senior Ambassador: Phil Eizenberg

Phil’s passion for mental health and physical activity shines through his contributions, including teaching karate, starting an old-time music group, and volunteering during disasters. Phil also fundraises for overseas relief through his musical talents.

Sporting Achievement – Group: U16 Boys Tweed Valley Basketball Representative Team

This team made history by winning the North Eastern Junior League Championship, defeating the undefeated Maitland Mustangs. Their achievement has inspired local youth and revitalised basketball in the Tweed.

Sporting Achievement – Individual (Joint Winners):

• Dany Henry: The Fingal Head surfer led Australia to victory at the ISA Under-18 World Junior Championships, won the Australian Open Men’s title, and became a mentor for young surfers.
• Isabella Millar: At 16, Isabella represented the Solomon Islands at the Paris Olympics, balancing school and training to compete on the global stage.

Volunteer of the Year – Group: Tyalgum Scratchers

The Tyalgum Scratchers have transformed Coolman Street into a must-see attraction with their beautifully maintained gardens. Their work fosters community pride and environmental stewardship.

Volunteer of the Year – Individual: Gary Setchell

For over 14 years, Gary has managed volunteers at Nullum House, a community drop-in centre providing food, showers, and support for disadvantaged individuals. He is celebrated for his compassion and dedication.

Young Achiever in Community Service: Jeff Dunne

The 16-year-old Casuarina breakdancer became the first Australian male to represent the country in breakdancing at the Olympics. Jeff uses his platform to advocate for underfunded sports and inspire young people to pursue their dreams.

Celebrate the Winners

For more information about the Tweed Australia Day Awards, the Tweed Citizen of the Year and videos of the recipients, visit the Tweed Shire Council’s website or their YouTube channel.

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Baseball Returns to Tweed with New Arkinstall Park Facilities

By Robert Heyward

Baseball enthusiasts in the Tweed can rejoice as the sport makes its long-awaited return with the completion of new facilities at Arkinstall Park in Tweed Heads South. The state-of-the-art facilities include two baseball diamonds and training fields, offering the community the opportunity to enjoy baseball locally for the first time in years.

This exciting development was made possible through a $325,000 grant to the Northern Rivers Baseball Association from the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund (Round 5), with the project reaching completion in July 2024.

The Northern Rivers Baseball Association, which caters to players aged 4 to 15 through competitions such as T-ball, rookie ball, and little league, is thrilled about the new opportunities these facilities provide.

Tweed Shire Council Manager of Parks and Active Communities, Murray Smith, shared the enthusiasm:

“It’s a fantastic feeling to deliver something entirely new for the Tweed community. The Northern Rivers Baseball Association has worked tirelessly to make this facility a reality, and we are delighted to have partnered with them to bring baseball back to the Tweed,” Mr. Smith said.

Arkinstall Park continues to evolve as a hub for community sport, with additional projects underway to support the growing needs of local residents.

Soccer Field Lighting Upgrade

Soccer players at Arkinstall Park now benefit from cutting-edge, energy-efficient LED lighting. The upgrades included replacing halogen lights with LEDs on three fields, complemented by a new automated lighting control system.

The project was funded with $319,811 from the NSW Government’s Regional Sports Facility Fund, with Tweed Shire Council contributing $10,000.

These fields serve the Tweed United Football Club, which boasts over 500 members across junior, men’s, and women’s leagues. The energy-efficient lighting will deliver up to 40% in cost and energy savings, aligning with Council’s Sports Field Strategy and its broader commitment to reducing emissions and fostering sustainability.

New Operator for Arkinstall Park Regional Tennis Centre

Tennis and pickleball players will see fresh opportunities at the Arkinstall Park Regional Tennis Centre, now operated by Voyager—a leading racquet sports organisation with a track record in managing facilities across Sydney, Melbourne, and Singapore.

Voyager’s diverse programs cater to players of all ages and skill levels, with their operations beginning at the centre in December 2024.

Netball Amenities Building Enhances Facilities

Netballers at Arkinstall Park are also celebrating the completion of a new $825,000 amenities building, finished in November 2024, just in time for the 2025 season.

The project was funded through a combination of grants from the Stronger Country Communities Fund ($400,000), the Female Friendly Community Sport Facilities and Lighting Program ($225,000), and Tweed Shire Council ($200,000).

Investing in Active Recreation

The upgrades at Arkinstall Park underscore Tweed Shire Council’s dedication to providing top-tier sports facilities for the community. These projects are part of Council’s broader Tweed Shire Sport and Active Recreation Strategy, aimed at fostering active and sustainable lifestyles.

For more information on Council’s initiatives, visit here.

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$7m Luxe Flats Set to Transform Boujee Tweed Town

By Ian Rogers

A slice of opulence is coming to Tweed as plans for a $7 million luxury apartment complex promise to elevate the town’s already boujee reputation. The development, located in the heart of the sought-after coastal region, is set to redefine high-end living with its bespoke design and premium amenities.

The boutique complex, aptly named Coastal Luxe, will feature just eight exclusive residences, each boasting uninterrupted ocean views, expansive layouts, and top-tier finishes. Prices are expected to start at $1.2 million, catering to discerning buyers seeking the ultimate in coastal living.

Developers say the project will blend contemporary architectural flair with the laid-back charm of Tweed, ensuring the apartments harmonise with the town’s unique character. The design includes eco-friendly materials, rooftop gardens, and private terraces, embracing sustainable living without compromising luxury.

“We wanted to create something truly special for Tweed, a development that speaks to the evolving sophistication of the area while staying true to its coastal roots,” said lead architect Michael Harper.

The development comes as Tweed continues to establish itself as a hotbed for luxury living, drawing interest from interstate buyers and sea-changers looking for a mix of lifestyle and prestige. With world-class beaches, boutique cafes, and an emerging cultural scene, the area has been dubbed the “next Byron Bay” by real estate insiders.

Local businesses are optimistic about the influx of affluent residents, expecting the new development to inject vitality and investment into the community.

However, not everyone is thrilled about the changes. Some locals have voiced concerns over housing affordability and the potential for gentrification, fearing that developments like this could make the town inaccessible for long-term residents.

“The focus seems to be on attracting wealthier people rather than supporting the community that’s already here,” said Tweed resident Melissa Green. “I hope we don’t lose what makes Tweed special in the first place.”

Construction is set to begin later this year, with completion anticipated by late 2026. As anticipation builds, one thing is clear: Tweed’s transformation into a luxe coastal haven is well underway. Whether this shift will preserve the town’s charm or alter its identity remains to be seen.

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Tweed Regional Museum Unveils Exciting New Exhibition: How to Draw a Dinosaur

By Jeff Gibbs

The Tweed Regional Museum is thrilled to announce the launch of its latest exhibition, How to Draw a Dinosaur, an imaginative blend of science and art that brings the prehistoric world to life. This groundbreaking display invites visitors to explore the creative intersection of scientific discovery and artistic interpretation, offering a fresh perspective on the dinosaurs that roamed Earth millions of years ago.

A Unique Approach to Dinosaurs

Museum Director Molly Green emphasised that this exhibition is far from a typical dinosaur showcase.

“The fossil record has provided invaluable clues about the structure and biology of dinosaurs, but much of their appearance — like colours, patterns, and textures — remains a mystery, leaving space for artistic interpretation,” Ms Green said.

“Through interactive exhibits, visitors of all ages are encouraged to let their imaginations run wild, envisioning and creating their own interpretations of these majestic creatures.”

Art and Science in Harmony

How to Draw a Dinosaur features extraordinary works from internationally renowned artists and paleoartists, including:

• Craig Walsh: Acclaimed projection artist, known for his immersive visual installations.
• Phoebe Paradise: Graphic street artist, bringing a vibrant, urban twist to the prehistoric theme.
• Matthew Aberline: Inflatable sculptor whose works add playful dimensionality to the exhibition.
• Dr. Lida Xing and Andy Frazer: World-renowned paleoartists offering stunning illustrations of reimagined dinosaurs.
• Local Talent: Works from local sculptor Christine Mellor and painter Michael Stiegler add a regional touch to the exhibition.

Interactive and Immersive Experiences

Visitors can engage with dinosaurs in creative and innovative ways:

• The Rainbow Room Reimagined: This immersive digital space allows visitors to design their own prehistoric creatures and watch them come alive through vibrant live projections.
• Life-Sized Prehistoric Projection: Inside the Museum, Craig Walsh’s large-scale projection work offers a jaw-dropping visual experience.
• Outdoor Projection Installation: From late January, Walsh’s outdoor projection can be viewed on the Tweed River from the Murwillumbah Bridge every evening, promising to become a must-see spectacle.

Real Fossils and Pop Culture Connections

Authentic fossils, loaned from Australia’s top national institutions, provide historical context, showcasing how dinosaurs have been reimagined over time through science and popular culture.

Supported by Create NSW

This innovative project is made possible by the NSW Government through Create NSW, reflecting a commitment to fostering creativity and engagement in regional communities.

Exhibition Details

• Exhibition Name: How to Draw a Dinosaur
• Location: Tweed Regional Museum, 2 Queensland Road, Murwillumbah
• Duration: Open until 24 May 2025
• Highlights: Interactive exhibits, immersive digital experiences, real fossils, and spectacular projection art.

For more information, visit the Tweed Regional Museum website.

Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the prehistoric world and unleash your creativity with this one-of-a-kind exhibition!

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