Stephen Sia, The Lord Howe Island Signal

Suzie Christensen. Operationally, based on those averages, electricity generation and supply for the Island is 43 per cent more expensive than prior to the solar installation, even with the grant from [the Australian Renewable Energy Agency] ARENA. The Board’s electricity charges have only increased 10 per cent from 2021 to 2024 in that time.

Anthony and Christian were thrilled to be awarded Champion, at the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW, Sydney Royal Distilled Spirits Show, for their Wolfe Rock Gin. The RAS of NSW has been judging Australian produce annually for an amazing 202 years! “This was an incredible accolade to receive, really putting Lord Howe Island Distilling Co on the map as a leader in Australian spirits, with our unique endemic botanicals.”

During the week beginning 9th September, there were celebrations on the Island to mark the completion of the Lord Howe Island airstrip in September, 1974. Around 50 members of the Australian army and navy, with family members, who were part of the project, visited to mark the anniversary.

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Suzie Christensen. Access to the Mt Eliza track is closed annually between 1 September until early March to protect nesting sooty terns (Onychoprion fuscata) and their young. The trail and summit provide important breeding grounds for the seabirds.

I want to thank all the community for making my recent visit to Lord Howe Island such a wonderful experience. Lord Howe Island is a special place, with a unique and rich history. But as you know, being so remote from the mainland has its challenges, as well as advantages.

Chris Murray. The loss of Qantas Catalina VH-EAX at Lord Howe Island – Sabotage or misadventure? ... Hudson Fysh – Qantas: “On the 23rd June, 1949, our Catalina and one of Trans Oceanic Airways were riding at their moorings on the lagoon when in a ‘blow’ our flying boat broke her moorings and went ashore."

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Suzie Christensen. In the lead up to National Science Week ... we celebrate those who contribute to the world of scientific knowledge. A globally significant partnership with research scientists at the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water has seen LHIB work to protect and manage threats to the critically endangered Little Mountain Palm (Lepidorrhachis mooreana or LMP).

Chris Murray. Growing up on Lord Howe during the halcyon days of the flying boats, the Lord Howe waterfront seemed like a sea of tranquillity: cheerful crowds congregated at the jetty to greet and farewell passengers; flower leis were romantically cast into the lagoon by departing passengers; Hawaiian music was piped in the vicinity of the jetty; and it all happened against the backdrop of Lord Howe’s opalescent lagoon and towering southern mountains… surely the picture-perfect setting?