First Nippers carnival

Port Macquarie’s first Nippers Surf Carnival was held on Sunday, March 3, at Flynns Beach. It was disappointing to strike a showery, windy day, making conditions a little unpleasant for spectators, but in no way dampening the enthusiasm of the Nippers.

More than 200 competed, in ages ranging from eight to 13 years. 

Although there was no official point score, Nambucca Heads, leaders of the Nipper movement on the North Coast, stood out in overall results. From a total of 195 pennants, Nambucca collected 94, with Port taking out 45.

The march past was an impressive sight and the onlookers who braved the weather, many travelling from Nambucca and Scotts Head, must have been thrilled to witness the nucleus of the future Life Saving movement in these boys.

It was a pity there were not more local parents present to share the proud moment of seeing their sons competing in such a creditable manner. Council and residents should be gratified to know that even if neither tourists or certain councillors personally benefit from a local pool, at least the coming generation will have the opportunity of learning to swim properly, says a spokesman for the Nipper movement.

Rotary homes for the aged

Two smartly appointed homes have been completed in Burrawan Street, off Lord Street, for the Rotary Homes for the Aged Committee and await occupants. Applications have been called for in the past few weeks. It is a Social Service requirement that applicants be in receipt of an aged pension.

The homes are built for couples, and couples will be given preference. The homes are in a nicely levelled, central area, and the rent is expected to be extremely cheap. Each unit has one bedroom, a kitchen and dining-living room arrangement. There's a built-in shower and septic system and, with the enormous amount of cupboard space provided, the applicants would be most comfortable.

Plans are that more units will be built as the demand grows and then a communal laundry will be added.

Editorial - Next Royal visit

Country people might well be excused for wondering if there was not some implied criticism in the statement from Her Majesty the Queen to the effect she was already looking forward to her next visit to Australia and hoped to see more of its people next time.

When the Britannia sailed by in the early hours of Tuesday morning, it was a considerable disappointment to North Coast people. Two tours later an no Royal footprints have stepped between Newcastle and Lismore, an important stretch of coastline close to 500 miles long.

It is rather sickening to see the same people hogging their "rights" to the Queen each visit she makes. If it is ever to be, there is a large dependence on our Parliamentary representation. It's not too early for both Mr Jordan and Mr Lucock to ask a question or two now. It will depend on how much reaction they, and the people they represent, show as to whether the Queen's next visit will embrace a country area with historical significance such as Port Macquarie.