Well into June now and Clarence Valley you have been indulging me for almost 12 months. Thinking back to my first impressions, they haven’t really changed Grafton and the Valley is an area of which the residents can be immensely proud. Surrounded by National Parks, nurtured by cautious and conservative development, lots of commitment to the Community, a solid work ethic and abundant provision for growth in most public facilities the previous custodians have handed us newcomers a lifestyle the envy of most.

On that note took a born and bred local land lubber for his first foray into fishing last weekend, like a lot of us he had no idea of what is on offer to pretty well everybody. He started the day cold and a little miserable but finished it with a greater appreciation of the wonderland we inhabit. Better still driving his wife nuts about the one that got away, and thinking seriously about going again. Sometimes I love my work.

On the home front CC girl has immersed herself becoming very much a ‘Valley Girl’, on her rare visits home I have gained a rough understanding of who is ‘in’, although that changes pretty quickly in the world of a 13 year old. I continue to be impressed with the Jacaranda Princess program and the manner in which the participants conduct themselves. It is surprising how something fairly traditional can be made fresh, contemporary and relevant.

In relation to the ‘Big One’, to be perfectly honest I’m not really sure what she is up to. She seems happy and not costing me much at the moment, it’s probably as good as it gets.

On the workfront, June is predictably busy, we missed Rob Connell last week while he was watching the Socceroos in Germany. Poor bugger got food poisoning the night before he left and faced a 26-hour plane trip far from 100%, he seems to be ok, nothing like a solid Aussie win to give you a lift.

Lots of business folks are taking advantage of the 15% depreciation allowance on offer from the Tax man. Check with your Accountant, as coupled with the GST rebate a new or used car this month has added value.

Our exports continue, with a flurry of activity from Moree this week, as well as new customers in Wauchope, Bangalow, Yowie Bay, Five Dock and Albion Park. Not that we are getting slack but we are using our truck a little more as we get better at the process, rather than sending the boys.

Finally NRMA Roadside are reporting an increase in flat batteries and lockouts, don’t forget the spare keys and to turn the lights and accessories off in the car.

While on the NRMA, don’t forget our free pink slip offer, check with the Victoria Street service centre for details.

Happy motoring,

Spratty