Clarence Valley Independent

The NSW Sugar Industry has just passed the half-way point for the 2021 cane crush, having enjoyed favourable weather conditions, reliable transport and factory operations and a positive sugar price outlook. To date, the three North Coast mills have processed some 850,000 tonnes of locally grown cane.

Emma Pritchard. A proposal by Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) to take Grafton Fire Station offline temporarily in the event of staff shortages has fired up the local community, including Member for Clarence Chris Gulaptis. As residents angrily expressed their concerns in response to the proposal on the Clarence Valley Independents Facebook page, Mr Gulaptis said he won’t accept any proposal that puts the community at risk.

Geoff Helisma. After many years of secret negotiations between Clarence Valley Council and Essential Energy, Coffs Harbour City Council and CVC will each hold a 50 per cent share of “the disused Nymboida Hydro Power Scheme and associated water licences” once the deal is settled ... However, it seems that recommissioning the hydro infrastructure to generate electricity is unlikely to proceed.

Emma Pritchard. Grafton Fire Station is among 30 across the state outlined in a proposal by Fire and Rescue NSW to be temporarily taken offline in the event of staff shortages ... If implemented, Grafton Fire and Rescue 306 Station Deputy Captain Chris Rumpf said the proposal could jeopardise the safety of residents who rely on the service.

Wayne Culph. A warm Spring-day and a fresh sea breeze were the perfect backdrop for the first races of the new season at the Big River Sailing Club. Keen to take advantage of the recent easing of restrictions, a fleet of 22 boats assembled to contest Heats 1 and 2 of the Handicap Series.

Geoff Helisma. A small team of Lower Clarence women have found a great way to do charitable work while they exercise among the waves. ‘Swell Sisters’ – Clair Morton, Shannon Grainger, Emy Alexander and Georgie Smith – are on a mission to raise funds for SurfAid¸ which provides “a hand up, rather than a handout, to people in remote communities connected to us through surfing,” says Clair.

Emma Pritchard. Sitting dutifully at his computer with a copy of his study guide in his hand, Duncan Gray focuses intently on his work ... When asked how he is adjusting to learning from home, Duncan said one of the biggest challenges he is experiencing is waiting for a response from some of his teachers after he asks a question. Sometimes, he has to wait until the next class before he receives a reply.

Emma Pritchard. Her sign says it all ... As the state-wide lockdown continues, Jess Wood, Manager of The Book Warehouse in Grafton, says she has seen an increase in the number of people purchasing books as the community searches for refreshing ways to keep their minds happily occupied during these challenging times.