How Council is part of your everyday

Share your story: Tell us about your favourite Tweed Shire Council service or facility.

• TRAC Pool - The Healing of Discomfort.

  by Sebastian L Grant, 8 months ago

  I'm Seb and I'm very tall so I needed a way to get rid of excess energy and feel amazing after work. I started swimming at the pool when I returned to Murwillumbah after a few years away. I discovered the area in 2011 and have lived here for most of that time since. It wasn't until getting into meditation and running after a long stint as a campfire and beers kinda guy that the pool became much more than a simple exercise and something akin to defining community for me.
  
  The staff are great. They say hello, they banter... Continue reading

  I'm Seb and I'm very tall so I needed a way to get rid of excess energy and feel amazing after work. I started swimming at the pool when I returned to Murwillumbah after a few years away. I discovered the area in 2011 and have lived here for most of that time since. It wasn't until getting into meditation and running after a long stint as a campfire and beers kinda guy that the pool became much more than a simple exercise and something akin to defining community for me.
  
  The staff are great. They say hello, they banter, they leave you alone after you've done your thing so it doesn't feel inconsequential. There's heaps of children and elderly, special needs, casual swimmers like myself and a handful of parents so it makes you aware of your place in the world and makes you feel caring and real. It's always clean and the facilities are nice (although I never have a hot shower because I'm tough) and despite the swim sometimes being a bit arduous, the whole experience is always good for the soul.

  I am going to admit it's because I'm a bit competitive and a creative "think-outside the box" kind of bloke at heart... But I have specialised over 3 years of practice at cold water swimming during winter. I do 30 laps now a few times a week; Without the assistance of a wetsuit, flippers or a very firm tumble-turn. I never feel the same every-time but the resilience to get through the laps helps with my farm and labouring work that I like to deliver on. It gives me time to think about my personal life and my on and off office-job... So after it's all done, I feel like a new person.

  I do want to mention also that when there's a petition to keep the pool open during winter and there's one signature on it, you know who it will be from! I'm sure there are many others and there should be more in the future. To everyone in town: I encourage you to give the winter swimming (at night) a go.

• Regenerative Agriculture for a healthier future

  by Jodie Viccars, 9 months ago

  At Woodland Valley Farm nestled in the heart of the Tweed Shire, our mission is simple but ambitious: to regenerate land through a vertically integrated approach to food production - from soil to plate.

  This work isn't easy. Restoring degraded landscapes through regenerative farming practices takes time, knowledge and resources - more than most landholders can manage alone. But thanks to the support of the Tweed Shire Sustainable Agriculture and Waterways Programs we have been able to achieve outcomes that would otherwise remain out of reach.

  One of the most significant transformations on our property has taken place along our... Continue reading

  At Woodland Valley Farm nestled in the heart of the Tweed Shire, our mission is simple but ambitious: to regenerate land through a vertically integrated approach to food production - from soil to plate.

  This work isn't easy. Restoring degraded landscapes through regenerative farming practices takes time, knowledge and resources - more than most landholders can manage alone. But thanks to the support of the Tweed Shire Sustainable Agriculture and Waterways Programs we have been able to achieve outcomes that would otherwise remain out of reach.

  One of the most significant transformations on our property has taken place along our riparian zones. Historically cleared and overgrazed, with the support of the Tweed Shire Council our riparian zones are becoming thriving ecological corridors. With the guidance, encouragement, and financial support we have the opportunity fence our riparian zones, exclude cattle, plant thousands of native trees, stabilise eroded banks, and restore habitat essential to the health of our broader landscape and creek system.

  The impact is wonderful. The restored riparian zones filter water, reduce sediment runoff, and support biodiversity. They are a powerful tool in our climate positive farming model, sequestering carbon and increasing resilience to drought and flood.

  This kind of work is not possible in isolation. The knowledge and hands-on support of the Council's Sustainable Agriculture and Waterways teams have been instrumental in guiding us through this process. Their practical, place-based approach to land care recognises the complexity of farming systems, and supports us as we work to create climate solutions.

  We are deeply grateful for this partnership and want to acknowledge the vital role Council plays in protecting and regenerating the landscapes we all depend on. In supporting farmers to care for country, Council is investing in the long-term health, sustainability and prosperity of the Tweed Shire.

  1 comment

• Support from the council with the Sustainable Agriculture Grant helping us regenerate Raven Place

  by Raven Place , 9 months ago

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Thanks to the support of the council’s Sustainable Agriculture Grant, we’ve begun vital work regenerating the creek bed of Clothiers Creek, which runs through our property. This funding is helping us combat erosion and restore biodiversity by removing invasive woody weeds like Camphor Laurel organically, using mycelium. Rather than wasting the felled tree, we’re transforming it into a living resource — turning it into a source of food and medicine. This innovative approach and with the money received from Grant allowed us to purchase 600 native trees that we’ve planted. The organic regen method gives the natives time and space... Continue reading

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Thanks to the support of the council’s Sustainable Agriculture Grant, we’ve begun vital work regenerating the creek bed of Clothiers Creek, which runs through our property. This funding is helping us combat erosion and restore biodiversity by removing invasive woody weeds like Camphor Laurel organically, using mycelium. Rather than wasting the felled tree, we’re transforming it into a living resource — turning it into a source of food and medicine. This innovative approach and with the money received from Grant allowed us to purchase 600 native trees that we’ve planted. The organic regen method gives the natives time and space they need to establish strong roots, ensuring long-term ecological health. We’re proud to be part of a solution that blends land care, food security, and sustainable practice.

• Tweed Regional Gallery

  by Gallery Devotee, 9 months ago

  The Gallery has made a huge difference to me. The collection is remarkable. I find the exhibitions to be extraordinary. However, most importantly, it has been a vehicle for making friendships with a wonderful community of creators and supporters of culture. I might be writing my story here, but the region’s stories are in the Gallery. These stories shine a light on our diverse and caring community.

  The Gallery has made a huge difference to me. The collection is remarkable. I find the exhibitions to be extraordinary. However, most importantly, it has been a vehicle for making friendships with a wonderful community of creators and supporters of culture. I might be writing my story here, but the region’s stories are in the Gallery. These stories shine a light on our diverse and caring community.

  1 comment

• Small grant - HUGE IMPACT!

  by RachaelSando, 9 months ago

  Last year, Raven Place Farm and We Forest Earth were lucky enough to receive a Sustainable at grant from Tweed Shire Council. This grant gave us the opportunity to plant 550 plants into our revegetation zone, along with supporting us on expanding our project using our innovative technique of organic bush regeneration - Mycoregen. Mycoregen is an innovative approach where we use endemic strains of mycelium to phase out woody weeds. Without this small grant, there is no way we could have created this impact to improve our local vegetation, phase out woody weeds without the need for toxic chemicals... Continue reading

  Last year, Raven Place Farm and We Forest Earth were lucky enough to receive a Sustainable at grant from Tweed Shire Council. This grant gave us the opportunity to plant 550 plants into our revegetation zone, along with supporting us on expanding our project using our innovative technique of organic bush regeneration - Mycoregen. Mycoregen is an innovative approach where we use endemic strains of mycelium to phase out woody weeds. Without this small grant, there is no way we could have created this impact to improve our local vegetation, phase out woody weeds without the need for toxic chemicals, create habitat, and prevent erosion whilst cleaning our waterways.

  I am very grateful to have received this grant, and appreciate all the work Tweed Shire Council do, to support local farmers in improving their farming practices - from the small grants program to all the workshops and advice they offer.

  1 comment

• Mowing Park Lawns

  by Marbing, 9 months ago
  Residents of the Anchorage Island area appreciate the TSC mowing the park lawns. Also their once a week effort to remove copious amounts of pandanus and palm fronds falling due to gale force winds. I personally removed a massive pile after Cyclone Alfred. It would be even more wonderful if TSC could arrange for a specific area around the water at the Anchorage to allow a patch of grass to grow for swan food. Swans have lost their habitat and food from 2021. Storms, cyclones, floods, water contamination, loss of sea grass due to climate change temperature rise means less... Continue reading

  Residents of the Anchorage Island area appreciate the TSC mowing the park lawns. Also their once a week effort to remove copious amounts of pandanus and palm fronds falling due to gale force winds. I personally removed a massive pile after Cyclone Alfred. It would be even more wonderful if TSC could arrange for a specific area around the water at the Anchorage to allow a patch of grass to grow for swan food. Swans have lost their habitat and food from 2021. Storms, cyclones, floods, water contamination, loss of sea grass due to climate change temperature rise means less natural food availability. Swans are seen now walking up Quayside Court Road in a desperate effort to feed their cygnets. PLEASE designate an area for swan food.
  1 comment

• Helping communities improve their streetscape and parklands.

  by Irene, 9 months ago

  Trees make an important contribution to our quality of life and support our unique wildlife. I have found the parks and gardens team willing to listen and respond positively to to my requests for tree replacement when trees have died or a need to improve the streetscape or parkland that are deficient in tree plantings. They have planted several trees over the years as a direct result of my requests. Everyone in the community is able to enjoy the many benefits those trees provide us with on a daily basis. Those trees also create pride and beauty in our local... Continue reading

  Trees make an important contribution to our quality of life and support our unique wildlife. I have found the parks and gardens team willing to listen and respond positively to to my requests for tree replacement when trees have died or a need to improve the streetscape or parkland that are deficient in tree plantings. They have planted several trees over the years as a direct result of my requests. Everyone in the community is able to enjoy the many benefits those trees provide us with on a daily basis. Those trees also create pride and beauty in our local neighbourhood.

• Thank you Tweed Shire Council

  by Patricia Berrutti , 9 months ago

  The facility I use the most in tweed is the current 25 metre pool minimum 5 times per week for aqua aerobics and lap swimming for many health reasons, the library and Bridge Club.

  The council has upgraded the heating at the pool and usage seems to be increasing.I used to attend chair yoga at the library. Until the lass conducting this activity left and really miss it as was a great service the council provided free.

  Also plan to start attending Banora Point Community centre to learn ukulele as all these activities allow social connections as well as physical... Continue reading

  The facility I use the most in tweed is the current 25 metre pool minimum 5 times per week for aqua aerobics and lap swimming for many health reasons, the library and Bridge Club.

  The council has upgraded the heating at the pool and usage seems to be increasing.I used to attend chair yoga at the library. Until the lass conducting this activity left and really miss it as was a great service the council provided free.

  Also plan to start attending Banora Point Community centre to learn ukulele as all these activities allow social connections as well as physical and emotional well-being...thanks you Tweed Council...Patricia Berrutti

  1 comment

• The activity of riding the ever so humble bicycle.

  by Woza, 9 months ago

  I love the Northern Rivers Rail Trail. What a fantastic initiative and massive success that turned out to be! Well done Tweed Shire Council. (I hope to live long enough to also enjoy the Byron Section, one of these days).

  
  

  Uki Mountain Bike park, also a really great initiative. Its hoped that Council, in recognising the popularity of this park will expand its footprint substantially (and maybe even build some others?). I reckon the Uki Township might have even benefited from the additional visitation it has attracted. How good would it be to have some trails suitable for bicycles around... Continue reading

  I love the Northern Rivers Rail Trail. What a fantastic initiative and massive success that turned out to be! Well done Tweed Shire Council. (I hope to live long enough to also enjoy the Byron Section, one of these days).

  
  

  Uki Mountain Bike park, also a really great initiative. Its hoped that Council, in recognising the popularity of this park will expand its footprint substantially (and maybe even build some others?). I reckon the Uki Township might have even benefited from the additional visitation it has attracted. How good would it be to have some trails suitable for bicycles around Clarrie Hall Dam for example.

  
  

  The simple act of riding a bicycle encompasses so many benefits, both personal and to the community as a whole. A healthy community is generally a happier community and regular physical exercise is one of the keys to this. From little kids to teenagers, young and older adults, its an activity that is able to be enjoyed by an entire family or on one's own for a bit of quiet time out in the fresh air. Great for mental health in that respect.

  
  

  Kids out on their bikes socialising, making friends and having some fun has always been a natural and positive thing and these days a legitimate alternative activity to spending excessive amounts of time staring at screens. Something I am of the opinion sucks the very life out of them. I have two sons, now in their late 20's and since they could walk, I ensured they could also ride. Their bicycles instilled confidence, balance, judgement, timing and of course risk management. Finding new and interesting places to take them where they could ride safe and improve their skills safe from cars was not always so straight forward. So having infrastructure provided specific for this purpose is an brilliant resource for young families.

  
  

  From my own personal observations, as a community we definitely need lots more of this type of thing. Building bicycle friendly infrastructure such as challenging trails and safely segregated pathways that encourages more people to dust of their bikes or go out and purchase one, is an investment in building a healthier community. And every bicycle rider seen out and about is also one less car on the road.

  
  

  1 comment

• Why I love Pottsville Creek

  by Pottsville Creek, 9 months ago

  I really appreciate how Tweed Shire Council has kept the Pottsville Creek beach access natural and simple. It’s peaceful, with the bushland and trees preserved, just a basic shower and nearby toilets no overdevelopment or infrastructure. The bushland walk is beautiful and the community’s toy library for kids adds a lovely, local touch. It’s the perfect balance of nature and community.

  I really appreciate how Tweed Shire Council has kept the Pottsville Creek beach access natural and simple. It’s peaceful, with the bushland and trees preserved, just a basic shower and nearby toilets no overdevelopment or infrastructure. The bushland walk is beautiful and the community’s toy library for kids adds a lovely, local touch. It’s the perfect balance of nature and community.

  1 comment