Local law firm Somerville Laundry Lomax is looking for witnesses to an assault that occurred in March 2020.The details are below.

The NSW Government is investing in a fleet of new hazardous materials (HAZMAT) vessels to help limit oil, diesel and other pollutant spills in the state’s waterways, with 19 new vessels being rolled out to Fire and Rescue NSW units across the state, with one to be based in the Goonellabah Fire and Rescue building on Rous Road.The new locally made vessels replace a 15-year-old fleet and offer larger and more stable platforms for crews to operate from.The $1.58 million fleet is part of the NSW Government’s $18.6 million investment in FRNSW’s Fleet Replacement Program 2024-25.Each vessel can tow and deploy absorbent and containment booms to limit hazardous spills. They also carry specialised equipment designed to contain and recover contaminants, reducing environmental harm during an incident.An initial three vessels have been delivered to locations in Bathurst, Newcastle and Shellharbour, while additional units will be delivered to locations including Batemans Bay, Berkeley Vale, Broken Hill, Coffs Harbour, Dubbo, Eden, Goonellabah, Leeton, Lithgow, Port Macquarie, Tamworth, Tweed Heads and Wagga Wagga over coming months.The Lismore App understands the Lismore vessel will be deployed to Goonellabah around May 2025.The new vessels are strategically located and can be deployed at any time, with response times of under two hours. They are also fitted with advanced emissions technology using the most efficient controls available to help limit their environmental impact.They are believed to be bigger and with a more powerful engine so they can safely operate in flood waters.Operators of the HAZMAT vessels undergo rigorous training, ensuring crews are prepared for complex incidents. Training is planned for teams in Berkeley Vale by the end of the year, with the remaining boats to be rolled out by June 2025. Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said, “The upgraded vessels reinforce our commitment to protecting communities, and these new and improved vessels are not only safer for crew members but are also fitted out with advanced emissions control technologies to help reduce impacts on the environment.”“Over coming months, these vessels will be positioned across the state in locations that enable rapid deployment, helping protect our waterways from hazardous materials and pollutants.”Commissioner of Fire and Rescue NSW Jeremy Fewtrell said, “These upgrades will help strengthen FRNSW’s response as the combat agency for HAZMAT.”“HAZMAT operators undergo rigorous training to meet the Australian Maritime Safety Authority standards, ensuring our crews are equipped with the best practices and tools to tackle complex maritime incidents.”NSW Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery and State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin welcomes the NSW Government’s investment in renewing its fleet of HAZMAT vessels and looks forward to their strategic delivery to Goonellabah, Tweed Heads and Coffs Harbour.“This means that our Northern Rivers region will be well covered in protecting our waterways from pollutant spills,” Ms Saffin said.

Lismore City Council has delivered a critical infrastructure upgrade of approximately 1,732 metres of ageing cast iron water pipes, securing the CBD's water supply for the next 100 years.The substantial $3.4 million investment involved installing a modern, fully welded polyethylene system that ensures the long-term reliability and sustainability of the city’s water supply. The project to maximise the life of critical city infrastructure ensures a secure, dependable water supply for residents and businesses alike. Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg highlighted the project's importance, highlighting its role in strengthening our city’s water services for the next generation. "The project focused on replacing the original cast iron pipes, which had reached the end of their useful life,” he said. “Replacing century-old pipes with modern materials was a balancing act to minimise service interruptions and maximise the life of this important asset.” “This complex project involved innovative methods to ensure minimal impact on businesses and locals in the CBD, and I’m proud of what we’ve achieved.” The transition to a polyethylene system will increase durability, safety, and efficiency, reflecting the Council’s commitment to a more robust water infrastructure. To minimise disruption to the community during the works, Council used horizontal directional drilling to complete the installation. This advanced technique allowed for faster and cost-effective installation, with less excavation than traditional open-cut methods. Following the installation, all new water mains passed rigorous pressure testing, verified by NATA-accredited assessors, and were confirmed to meet Australian drinking water standards through thorough bacterial and chemical testing. Polyethylene pipes are highly reliable, low-cost, and maintenance-free, with lifespans exceeding 100 years, as supported by the WSAA Polyethylene Pipeline Code. This project is crucial to Council’s Capital Works Water Pipelines initiatives, highlighting our dedication to responsibly upholding vital services.

Police are renewing their appeal for public assistance to locate missing woman Susan Connors.Susan, aged 59, was last seen on the Old Pacific Highway, Woodburn, about 8.40pm on Thursday (14 November 2024).When she could not be located or contacted, officers attached to Richmond Police District were notified on Wednesday (15 November 2024) and commenced inquiries into her whereabouts.Police and family hold serious concerns for her welfare.Susan is described as being of Caucasian appearance, 165-175cm, solid build, short dark brown hair with red streaks in fringe, brown eyes and walks with a limp.She was last seen wearing a floral top and three-quarter white pants.Susan is known to frequent the Alstonville, Lismore and Ballina areas.Police believe Susan maybe driving a red coloured Mazda 3 bearing NSW registration SC564.Anyone with information about her whereabouts or dashcam footage of the Old Pacific Highway about 8.40pm on Thursday, 14 November 2024, is urged to call Richmond Police District or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.

Wyrallah Road Public School is awash with colour and excitement today as the school and P&C prepare to host their first art exhibition.The theme is ‘Bolder, Brighter, Together’! The purpose is to engage the students in art, celebrate their creativity and to bring the community together. Students have been working collaboratively with their class on major art works. The art works all have a unique theme and are bright, beautiful and tell a story.A year 1/2 class were inspired by Van Gogh’s Starry Night to create a Lismore edition of the masterpiece as their major artwork, ‘Cosmic Evening Lismore’. This artwork captures movement and a sense of home. In addition, the students individually created their own inspiration of Van Gogh’s Sunflowers.A year 3/4 class created ‘Reef of Radiance’, a coral reef major artwork and installation. This underwater spectacular is transformed by UV light. Individually, students created plants and animals found underwater.Inspired by the theme of community, the artwork symbolises how individual contributions, like the unique creatures and coral within a reef, come together to form a thriving ecosystem in neon colours.Tonight, the major artworks will be sold in a silent auction to raise funds for the school. These impressive pieces are perfect for any business, community space or private collection. The individual artworks will be sold to the parents of the budding artists.The exhibition will also display the art competition entries prepared by students. Entries will be judged by special guests Mayor Steve Krieg, Jenny Dowell and Lismore High Art teacher Lisa Newman. The competition artworks will be for sale. There will be prizes, raffle, food, coffee and music. The Lismore High School Band, The Rays, will kick off the evening and be performing their original songs.A spokesperson said, "Embrace the spirit of the event, and you might find yourself investing in the future of a talented artist. Let’s come together to champion bold, vibrant art and celebrate our community."Go along and support young local artists tonight (Wednesday, 20th November) from 4-7pm, 152 Nielson Street, East Lismore. Admission by gold coin donation. There will be limited eftpos facilities, so please bring cash if possible.

Police are appealing for public assistance or dashcam footage following a traffic incident involving an allegation of dangerous driving that occurred on the Bruxner Highway between South Lismore and Casino on Sunday 10 November 2024.The incident occurred between 4pm and 5pm .The allegation involves a vehicle described as a Black Jeep Cherokee with Queensland registration plates.Police believe that the manner of driving of the Black Jeep Cherokee was witnessed by other road users, and some may have captured that manner of driving on an in-car dash cam.Police are urging anyone with information or footage concerning this vehicle and manner of driving to contact Casino Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 and quote Event E99410774.All information will be treated in strict confidence.

The Northern Rivers Brand was released just over two years ago, and it has grown to encompass many businesses in the region.  Next year, the brand will be taking new steps to upsell our area, so now, as part of the buy local movement, is the best time to get familiar with it and assess if it’s right to use with your business.The Northern Rivers Brand is a logo that supports a local ethos - developed by members of the region for the region to bring cohesion and place for your products in the wider national and international market.The brand started as a vision by Simon Stahl, CEO of the Casino Food Co-op. Selling products on the global market, Simon realised that the world was paying attention to a place. However, a small town is much harder to identify than a region.“I was at an international fair in China some six or seven years ago,” said Simon, “and you could just imagine me at one of the biggest markets in the world, trying to find your point of difference when you put up your own commercial brands. “Even though we're a big company on the north coast, we're very insignificant globally. And so to be able to go to one of those expos and actually have a Northern Rivers Brand to underpin our products was one example where we could compete on the export stage. “And you could do that across the country, couldn't you? You could go to a food show in South Australia and be representing Northern Rivers and be under one identifiable banner.”Simon approached Business NSW with his idea, and the development of the brand began.The logo now appears on Simon’s emails, signatory letter and has started to go out on some of the packaging, “We'll still have our brand Richmond Valley Veal, but then it'll be underpinned by the Northern Rivers logo.“It is about trying to give our company greater scale by locating where we come from. It has done that and is in the process of doing that.”Jane Laverty, Business NSW Regional Director, Northern Rivers, embraced the idea, “We want to ensure that businesses can shine and be proud to connect all of the work they do in their products or services with the place in which they do it from and that their staff are part of as well.”The brand was developed in consultation with stakeholders and the community. The unique essence of the area, as well as personality and values, were discussed to understand the region better.  “It's making sure everyone's on the same page in terms of who we are and what is the essence of this place - that you may choose to establish your business or come to as a visitor. Provenance is really important, and now more than ever.”(Jane Laverty with colleague Kate Fletcher, proud NorRiveans spreading the love)The team working on the brand discovered that connection is very important to the region - with nature, community, growers, sources, creators, and all the things that bring value to lifestyle.“A consistent narrative from the wonderful stakeholders who engaged in the focus groups and forums to develop the brand was our connection to nature and that the community is at the heart of who we are and everything we do. It was also clear that our region is made up of people who are inclusive and welcoming.“The logo for the brand was created by Lismore-based firm, The Ad Agency, who have a talented team of creatives that were dedicated to ensuring the regions values, and the essence of who we are, could be reflected in the visual impression.”The logo is made up of a tangled ribbon, displaying the connectedness of the region in the shape of the seven LGAs that make up the Northern Rivers. The heart is where it starts.“People outside of this region, they don't know the borders. They don't know when they're crossing that line between Ballina and Lismore or Tweed and Byron. “Businesses are using the Northern Rivers NSW brand on everything from email signatures and websites through to signage and packaging, which is wonderful to see.  “If you are a business operating in the Northern Rivers, you are part of an amazing region with an exciting future and a growing and strengthening regional place brand.“We would love to see more businesses register to use the brand. We set a target of 1000 businesses to register over a 12-month period, with the current total at 600. We are well on our way.”17% of these companies are based in Lismore, the city at the heart of the region.“Given we are in the early stages of place brand promotion, the participation of our region’s businesses will give us the reach we are looking for and the success we can continue to build on.”This project has given light to another that helps connect business two business in the region. Registering to use the Northern Rivers brand provides an automatic ability to become a member - one of the benefits of using the brand.One of the most influential businesses in NSW right now is located in Lismore. Michael Hampson from Norco has recently been awarded the “Outstanding Business Leader (21 Employees and over) in the NSW State Business awards.Michael believes in the ability of the power of a regional brand, “The Northern Rivers brand enables all businesses to unite under the one logo to harness all that our abundant region has to offer. “Norco, as a 100% Farmer owned Co-operative with 130 years of history in the Northern Rivers, is the natural cornerstone supporter of the brand.”The logo is featured on the complete range of Norco ice creams that are available in major supermarkets nationally.  “The Northern Rivers brand has been able to empower consumers that may have not otherwise known of our long heritage and association with the natural beauty and abundance of the Northern Rivers”Jane says, “It's not just nice to have anymore. It's a must-have, with the Queensland juggernaut right next door. A strong regional brand will help us to get the right people here with the right skills to continue to grow businesses, and, moreover, support us having a prosperous community.“We have had businesses from across the Northern Rivers region (from Tweed, Byron, Ballina, Lismore, Kyogle, Richmond Valley and Clarence Valley) register for the free licence to use the Northern Rivers NSW brand logo and to be a brand ambassador.“Each local government area has their own strength that then when you combine that, it's that old phrase, the sum of the parts is greater than the whole” Michael adds, “The Northern Rivers logo enables businesses to leverage the history, success and awareness of all the other amazing businesses in the region as we unite under the one Northern Rivers brand. This really is a story of “we are stronger together”, which is the underlying core principle and foundation of our 100% farmer-owned co-operative”Simon thinks, “This is beneficial to everyone running a business on the Northern Rivers. This does not replace your brand. This just underpins a location that we're proud of. There's a lot of positive things in the Northern Rivers. So it actually adds a foundation to what you're producing or what your brand is.”Jane says it is extremely easy to register via the project website, and there is no cost to do so. “Once we have received a registration with some key details to ensure you are based in the region and align with the shared values, businesses are provided with a place brand toolkit.”This is the website with further information: https://northernriversnsw.com.au/. For more information on the meaning behind the brand development, there is a short clip here.If you would like to know more about Michael Hampson's experience, who has become a brand ambassador, have a look at what he has to say.

The first house relocation by the NSWRA (Reconstruction Authority) will occur this week, as residents bordering Mt Pleasant Estate received a letter outlining activities over the next four weeks.The letter said that the first home was to be moved on Tuesday, November 19 (yesterday), followed by one home moved to its site each week. The recent wet weather may cause delays to the relocation date; however, it is highly likely that all four homes will be in place and ready for refurbishment before Christmas.The homes will be moved at 12 midnight in accordance with road permit requirements.The four houses (pictured below) have caused much discussion among local Just Street and Dudley Street residents. They are concerned the houses will be refurbished to a substandard level, therefore affecting the aesthetics of the neighbourhood and potentially property values.The NSWRA has promised the houses will be finished to a standard like two others that have been built on Just Street.The refurbishment process will run well into 2025. During that time, it will be closely watched by residents.There is one group who hopes the move and refurbishment progress quickly. The potential new owners.Thirty to forty people have registered an expression of interest to purchase one of the four homes.These people have been flood-affected and have received a buyback.The million-dollar question is, will the houses be affordable?This is Stage 1 of the Mt Pleasant Estate. The Master Plan includes the building of 39 houses and townhouses (3), which will include houses sharing communal land.

During his recent podcast for Talking Lismore (Podcasts), Mayor Steve Krieg said the Lismore to Bentley leg of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail will be officially opened on Saturday, December 14.Mark that date in your diary.Lismore City Council provided an update on the works completed to date.Over the past month, construction crews have worked hard to put the final touches on the trail. Works are being completed at Bungabee car park, South Lismore car park (at the Lismore Railway Station) and the shared path connection to Nesbitt Park.A local South Lismore supplier has repurposed existing railway steel into various artifacts. First is a commanding Lismore sign at the Lismore Railway Station, which features railway steel from sections of the original line. Seats at the trailhead have been constructed from historic bridge timbers with brackets made from repurposed railway steel, as have horse-hitching rails. Finally, a 4-metre-long bike rack made from railway steel will be installed for launch.All five rest areas are now built and feature a shelter, picnic tables, bike racks, and a hitching rail and water trough for horses.The timber finishes at the crossings are being finalised in the coming weeks before the official launch. Likewise, external upgrades to the iconic heritage-listed Lismore Railway Station precinct, including new turf and pressure cleaning existing surfaces, will be completed, creating a charming trailhead.This project has been made possible thanks to funding provided by the Federal Government’s Building Better Regions Fund.

The NSW Government has seized over 300,000 vapes over the past year, as it introduces harsher penalties for suppliers in the NSW Parliament.Maximum penalties for illegal vape supply are set to soar from $1,650 to approximately $1.54 million, with prison sentences increasing from six months to seven years.The NSW Government has introduced the legislation in the NSW Parliament as it moves to align vaping offences with the Commonwealth’s.Offences will also be added for possession of commercial quantity of vaping products and for retailer possession of vaping products.As with the Commonwealth vaping reforms, the intent of these offences is to target suppliers over individual users of vaping products. The introduction of new illegal vape penalties comes as the Government has seized over 300,000 vaping products over the past year. Between 1 July 2024 to 30 September 2024, 42,000 products were seized from 362 inspections.This is compared to the same period the previous year when 153,000 products were seized from 290 inspections.The lower number of products seized in the most recent quarter may be the result of the disruption in product availability in the market following the introduction of new Commonwealth vaping laws.The NSW Government announced in October it would recruit an additional 14 enforcement officers to strengthen compliance efforts for vaping and tobacco products across the state.NSW Health recognises the importance of supporting pharmacists, prescribers, and wholesalers in complying with laws regarding the supply and sale of therapeutic vaping products and has introduced an eCigarette Compliance Program to assist with this. The program’s initial focus is on providing support to pharmacists, with a team of specialised compliance officers visiting pharmacies across the state to offer on-site education and guidance.NSW Health partners with the Commonwealth, NSW Police, the Therapeutic Goods Administration, and Australian Border Force on enforcement related to illegal vape and tobacco sales, sharing intelligence, and working on joint operations.More information on the supply of therapeutic vaping products in NSW is available on the NSW Health website here:https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/pharmaceutical/Pages/Nicotine-vaping.aspx  For more information about the vaping reforms go to the Therapeutic Goods Administration vaping hub at www.tga.gov.au or contact them on 1800 020 653.Minister for Health, Ryan Park said, “The prevalence of illegal vaping devices in our community, and in particular among our young people, is deeply concerning.“We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to the stem the tide of this public health challenge.“I am very encouraged by the progress we are making in terms of removing these harmful devices from our streets.“And I am pleased to announce that we are augmenting our efforts by introducing harsher penalties to target suppliers.”NSW Health Acting Chief Health Officer Dr Michelle Cretikos said, We take our compliance role seriously. We are committed to removing as many illegal vapes as we can, particularly to stop them falling into the hands of young people.“We don’t want people to vape, and if they are trying to quit smoking or to quit vaping, we have supports in place to help. Call the Quitline on 13 7848, visit icanquit.com.au or speak to your GP.“If you think a tobacco or e-cigarette retailing law has been broken by a retailer in NSW, you can report this via the NSW Health website.”

With summer just around the corner and today's forecast saying there is a high chance of rain (90%) with 7 to 40mm forecast from the Bureau of Meteorology, it may not seem pertinent to talk about skin cancer. However, this week is the Cancer Council’s National Skin Cancer Action Week, so it is a reminder for Australians to visit their doctor for a skin check.The Australian Medical Association is backing National Skin Cancer Action Week this year by highlighting the danger posed by Australia’s ‘national cancer’ and the importance of early detection with skin checks.AMA President Dr Danielle McMullen said Australians cannot be complacent as Australia has the highest incidence of skin cancer in the world. “While much has changed since Dorothy Mackellar wrote how she loved a sunburnt country, for many of us Australia is still synonymous with sunshine, outdoor activities and the beach,” Dr McMullen said.“Australians spend a great deal of time in the sun, whether it be playing sport or enjoying recreation, and for many people their everyday work requires them to spend long periods outside.“It is no surprise then roughly two out of every three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer at some stage of their lives.”Dr McMullen said while the incidence of skin cancer is extremely high, the success rate of early detection and treatment is something to celebrate.“We know that with early detection through the form of a skin check most of these skin cancers can be treated with somewhere in the order of a 98 per cent success rates for treating skin cancers, if detected early.“The AMA is doing its bit for our own staff in Canberra who are getting their skin in the game with a visit from Skin Check Champions this week for their skin checks. I would encourage all Australians to talk to their GP about how they can get a skin check. “Of course I also encourage Australians to be vigilant and follow the Cancer Council’s ongoing advice to slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen, slap on a hat, seek shade and slide on sunglasses when enjoying the outdoors. Prevention is important and, along with detection, goes a long way to keeping Australians safe while having fun in the sun.”

Not to put pressure on any Lismore App readers, but Christmas is five weeks away.No doubt, there are many who are calm and completely planned already, and there are others who have not had the time to think about the big day yet. Life continues to be manic for a lot of people.As the calendar does wind down to the end of 2024, the Lismore App Christmas button is live.It is your one-stop place to find all this year's Christmas information, such as Christmas Carols, Markets, Pop-Up Shops, Lights, Church Services and more. Events that you can add to your calendar, digital or paper.Many groups and organisations have not started to promote their events; when they do, and we are notified, we will add them to the list.Some sections, like Christmas Lights, will go live when there are enough locations for families to drive around Lismore and view.For this, we rely on you, our readers, to help. If you have an event you wish to add to the Christmas 2024 button, email simon@lismoreapp.com.au. Let's make this Christmas period a community affair. And don't forget to shop local.

One of Lismore's institutional businesses will be closing its doors on Monday, December 23, after 31 years in business at the same Lismore CBD location.Robyn Lattimer opened the Fémme Mystique doors in the Strand Arcade in October 1993 and has not only survived but thrived in the Lismore CBD despite decades of floods.Robyn worked in lingerie in Sydney when she was a youthful 18-year-old."There was a brand called Lovable, it's now been deleted, and I was the original Lovable girl," Robyn reminisced with the Lismore App, "We wore a white uniform with a red heart.""Then I sort of did various things, interior design, got married, had my children, and didn't go back to work for quite a while. Then, I got a job in a pharmacy. I did a Pharmacy course, was offered a job in pharmacy and was there for about three or so years.""I was then offered a job at a lingerie in Lismore that had a branch in Coffs Harbour, and worked there for about three or four years.""Then this shop became vacant, and I was asked whether I'd like to start my own business. So I thought, Well, why not?"Apart from various lingerie brands, Fémme Mystique was well-known for the brand Amoena.Amoena is one of the leading brands of mastectomy forms and bras that support women diagnosed with breast cancer."A lady came into me one day, and she said, I can't tell you who I am, but I want you to ring such and such a number and tell them who you are and what you do regarding mastectomy for women. So I phoned the number, and it happened to be the Lismore Base Hospital. They offered me a contract to supply and fit breast prostheses for mastectomy women. After my contract with Lismore Base Hospital, I got a phone call from St Vincent's, and they ended up giving me a contract as well."And that's been the majority of what I've actually done over the last 31 years."The sad part of Robyn's closure is that Amoena, at this stage, goes with her. There will be no shop in Lismore which carries the Amoena range."There's a lady in Ballina who's just started. So, other than that, I think Coffs Harbour and Tweed Heads would be about the closest place."I've absolutely loved it. It's been just so rewarding to be able to help a woman get her femininity back. I guess because we women have got bumps in our jumper, and at the time of a mastectomy, most women's femininity and sexuality is very challenged. So, to give them their feminine shape back has been just amazing. I've absolutely loved every minute of it."I've made some lovely friends, some lovely ladies that come in on a regular basis just to say hi and have a chat. It's what's been so rewarding for me; I've loved it."This could be an opportunity for someone in Lismore, although there is a great deal of training involved. Robyn would be happy to pass on contacts to anyone willing to carry the Amoena torch into the future.Robyn is not keen on closing Fémme Mystique, she is doing so kicking and screaming."I guess Warren's retiring (her husband Warren Lattimer), but I'm getting tired, and my health's not what it used to be, obviously, because I'm getting older. But it's time for me to go. There comes a time for everybody when they've got to just learn to say no, which is a very hard word to say."The final day for Fémme Mystique will be the final day of 2024 (Tuesday, December 31). However, the final day of trading will be Monday, December 23.Robyn wants to clear the store of all its stock, apart from a few items for her daughter and daughter-in-law and one or two for herself, which means 50% off everything."There's the beautiful nightwear, French Country and Schrank. The bras and briefs are Burlei, Triumph, Ambra, Fine Lines and Amoena, the mastectomy bras."As for what's next for Robyn, and Warren, once Fémme Mystique is closed, family is at the top of the agenda."Our family is in Canberra and Sydney, and I'd like to see more of my grandchildren, the little ones are all young. The eldest is 14, he's in Canberra, and then there's two little girls that are three and six and a 12-year-old grandson in Sydney. I'd like to see more of them and go to their sporting events. The younger of the two grandsons plays water polo, so we always go and watch him play water polo, and if we were down there in winter, we'd go and watch him play soccer. The one in Canberra has just taken up tennis, and he was playing soccer too.""I think it's nice for children to have that extended family and know that they're loved by others than their parents."Fémme Mystique is open Monday to Friday between 9am and 2pm.You can call Robyn on (02) 6622 3434.

A Severe Thunderstorm Warning for HEAVY RAINFALL for Lismore, Nimbin, Kyogle and other parts of the Northern Rivers has been issued by the Bureau of Meteorology.Thunderstorms developing in an unstable moist airmass are moving slowly along a trough in the Northern Rivers.Severe thunderstorms are likely to produce heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding in the warning area over the next several hours. Locations that may be affected include Lismore, Murwillumbah, Tyalgum, Kyogle, Wiangaree and Nimbin.58.0mm was recorded in 30 minutes to 8:25pm.The State Emergency Service advises that people should:* Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.* Don't walk, ride your bike or drive through flood water.* If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.* Be aware that run-off from rainfall in fire affected areas may behave differently and be more rapid. It may also contain debris such as ash, soil, trees and rocks.* After bushfires, heavy rain and the loss of foliage can make the ground soft and heavy, leading to a greater chance of landslides.* Unplug computers and appliances.* Avoid using the phone during the storm.* Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.* Stay vigilant and monitor conditions. Note that the landscape may have changed following bushfires.* For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the SES (NSW and ACT) on 132 500.The next warning is due to be issued by 11:50 pm.You can stay up to date with the Bureau of Meteorology via the Lismore App Weather and Weather Radar.

A man, in his 70s, is uninjured after his Holden Rodeo crashed into the front window of the IGA supermarket in Evans Head earlier this afternoon.NSW Police said that about 1.50pm today (Monday, 18 November 2024), emergency services were called to Woodburn Street, Evans Head, following reports of a crash.Officers attached to Richmond Police District attended, alongside NSW Ambulance paramedics and Fire and Rescue NSW, and found a car had crashed into a shop front.There were no reports of injuries to anyone inside the store.(The Holden Rodeo went right into the supermarket. Photo: Kiel Heperi)The driver and only occupant of the vehicle, a man in his 70s, was uninjured.There was structural damage to the building, which was assessed by officers from Fire and Rescue NSW.Inquiries by officers from Richmond Police District continue.The Indy NR said the IGA supermarket was closed while the building was being secured.IGA posted on social media at 4pm that it was re-open for business.“We have limited registers open, and we ask everyone to exercise caution when entering or leaving the store.“Luckily, no one was injured in this unfortunate accident, just a little shaken (not stirred). Please be patient while our staff are operating under these difficult circumstances.”

Following the interception of fire ant-infested turf at Clunes, near Byron Bay, on Wednesday, 13 November, the NSW Government has taken immediate action and placed a temporary suspension of turf movements from heavily infested fire ant areas of Southeast Queensland.A new Biosecurity Emergency Order (No. 15) was published on Friday, 15 November, to include the immediate temporary suspension of turf.The move is designed to mitigate the risk of fire ant movements into NSW.Queensland residents who handle materials like soil, hay, turf and potted plants sourced from within the Queensland-defined fire ant biosecurity zones are legally required to follow measures to reduce the risk of spreading fire ants, as outlined in the Biosecurity Regulation 2016 (QLD) as well as any other requirements of the receiving state or territory.The NSW Fire Ant Program has recently stepped up efforts to prevent the spread of fire ants with the launch of proactive early detection surveillance across northern New South Wales.The initiative uses specially trained detection dogs and human surveillance teams to monitor high-risk sites to detect and prevent the establishment of fire ants in NSW. Surveillance will target high-risk locations identified through tracing of fire ant carrier materials, such as turf, soil, and other landscaping materials, along with areas highlighted by habitat suitability modelling.While fire ants continue to pose a serious threat across Australia, the NSW Fire Ant Program represents a significant step forward in the Government’s fight to keep the state fire-ant-free.Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty said, "The temporary suspension of turf delivery from fire ant-infested areas is a necessary step to mitigate the movement of these highly invasive pests.“By ramping up surveillance focusing on high-risk areas and employing advanced tracking and modelling techniques, we’re taking strong preventative measures to stop fire ants from establishing here."“We’ve proven that when fire ants are detected in NSW, we will respond quickly to stamp them out as soon as possible, and it’s thanks to the thousands of sets of eyes that report in suspected sightings.“Fire ants won’t march into NSW they will either be carried with materials such as soil, mulch, hay and turf, or fly in by natural spread from QLD, which is why we’re ramping up surveillance in these high-risk areas.“Biosecurity is everyone’s responsibility, so it’s critical that businesses moving these types of materials comply with the Biosecurity (Fire Ant) Emergency Order.”NSW Chief Invasive Species Officer Scott Charlton said, “Under our existing emergency measures turf needs to be treated both prior to harvest and immediately after laying in NSW.“Suppliers also need ensure a Record of Movement is declared, relevant certification and documents are retained, turf is labelled and transported in preventative conditions, which for turf means keeping off the ground and covering until it reaches its destination.

As reported last week in the Lismore App, the October 23 Ballina tobacconist ram raid and two separate incidents at the same Tweed Heads location appear to be linked to organised crime networks as government excise increases each year send the cost of tobacco and vapes to unaffordable levels. Of course, the government tactic is to drive smokers to quit, and it has been working to a degree. According to Smoke Free Clinic, between 1995 and 2019, the smoking rate among adults halved. However, it has also created a black market for tobacco products as those who do not want to or cannot give up look for cheaper alternatives.The Federal Government announced a 5% excise increase in May 2023, which finished on 1 September 2024. There are now calls from some parliamentarians to lower the excise rate to combat the increasing presence of people turning to the black market controlled by organised crime. As a result, the federal government's revenue base decreases. Illegal tobacco products pay zero excise. Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan, focusing on vaping, said the recent illegal activities in Ballina and the Tweed are further proof that Labor’s prohibition-only model to vaping isn’t working and is exactly why we need a regulated vaping model.“The Nationals’ introduced a policy more than a year ago, to protect our children and reduce organised crime,” Mr Hogan said.“Labor’s prohibition model is driving more Australians to the black market and is exposing children to organised crime.”“In contrast, our model will stop criminals from exploiting our children, and also protect their health by ensuring we know what is in vapes.”“Illegal activity involving vapes and tobacco is continuing to rise, and people are also inhaling ingredients they have no information about.”“The Coalition’s strictly regulated model under the TGA will ensure there is controlled licencing to over 18s, whilst keeping it illegal to under 18s, similar to cigarettes. We would also invest $250 million for the policing and law enforcement of vapes.”“Importantly, by regulating this product, the Government would receive excise revenue, which could also be put back into health and education.”“Prohibition hasn’t worked. Less than 10 per cent of Australians who vape have a prescription, and Labor’s announcement will only help the black market continue to grow.”

The New South Wales Schools Advisory Council will be convened in the first week of December to begin work on a statewide approach to address bullying in New South Wales schools, as the Minns Labor Government puts its support behind advocate calls for a national approach to the issue.The New South Wales Schools Advisory Council represents over 3,120 schools across the state and includes representatives from all education sectors. Whilst all schools are required to have an anti-bullying policy, in an acknowledgement of the gravity and universality of this issue all have agreed that action is needed.This follows ongoing community conversations about the need to lift the standards of behaviours, and in particular responses to bullying in schools across New South Wales, to ensure every child feels safe and supported at their schools. Whilst every school community is different, the establishment of a statewide approach to bullying will aim to address the common factors which lead to this type of behaviour and outline the expected response from all schools.The Minns Labor Government is committed to ensuring students across New South Wales are able to positively engage with their school communities, with action already taken including:Banning mobile phones in all NSW Public schools, with a recent survey showing that 86 per cent of principals believing socialising has improved since this came into effect. Implementing a new, stronger behaviour policy which provides teachers and principals with the authority they need to appropriately manage student behaviour. Introduced a revised school curriculum which includes lessons on bullying, respectful relationships and consent education.Hosted a Social Media Summit alongside the South Australian Government, and supported the Federal Government’s decision to raise the minimum age for social media to 16. Recruited 92 new school counsellors and psychologists since the beginning of this year.Launched the Spotlight on Cyberbullying Website which provides free and easily accessibly cyberbullying resources for parents, carers, teachers and schools.  New South Wales Schools Advisory Council Members:Prue Car, Deputy Premier and the Minister for Education and Early LearningMargery Evans, Chief Executive of the Association of Independent Schools of NSWDallas McInerney, Chief Executive Officer of Catholic Schools NSWMurat Dizdar, Secretary of the NSW Department of EducationChris Minns, Premier of New South Wales said, “In the past bullying may have been seen as a localised problem, but the truth is that this is a scourge that is affecting children across every type of school.“While we support a nationally consistent approach, we know that may take some time, so we are not waiting, and we are exploring what we can do here in New South Wales immediately.“We have heard some devastating stories of bullying in New South Wales schools and we genuinely understand the responsibility we have as a government to do everything that we can to make a difference in this space.”Prue Car, Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning said, “We all have a crucial role to play in supporting safe and inclusive environments and helping to strengthen community harmony.  “All of the school sectors take reports of bullying seriously and are committed to ensuring students, parents, carers and staff can thrive in every school community.  “The Minns Labor Government is committed to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of our students, including ensuring that all NSW schools have zero tolerance for bullying.”Margery Evans, Chief Executive of the Association of Independent Schools of NSW said, “No school or sector is immune from bullying. We look forward to working with our Catholic and government school counterparts to strengthen in any way we can the proactive measures schools have in place to try to prevent bullying.” Dallas McInerney, Chief Executive Officer of Catholic Schools NSW said, “There is no time for delay; kids only ever get one chance at childhood, and it shouldn’t be marred by bullying.” “The Premier’s call to action has been heard, the time for excuses has ended.“The upcoming School Advisory Council meeting is the opportunity for a renewed focus, and we need to respond. Our students deserve nothing less.”Murat Dizdar, Secretary of the NSW Department of Education said, “I welcome the opportunity to work with my colleagues in the non-government sector to ensure every child, no matter where they attend school, learns in a safe and respectful environment.”“In NSW public schools we have zero tolerance of all forms of bullying, which we know can happen inside and outside the school gates as well as online.“Developing a consistent statewide approach and working with our respective parent communities to model the behaviour we want our children to emulate will play a key role in reducing the incidences of bullying.”

Summerland Bank is in negotiations with the Regional Australia Bank to discuss a possible merger.If successful, they will become one of the top ten largest customer owned banks in Australia.John Williams, the CEO of Summerland Bank, is optimistic about the decision for a merger; it's part of their 10-year outlook.“This came about from our strategic plan.” said Mr Williams, “We approached Regional Australia Bank to determine if they were interested in exploring the opportunities and benefits of a merger. We believe that it is in the best interest of our customers if we undertake a merger with the right partner.“For decades we've had a relationship and interaction with Regional Australia Bank in sharing ideas and concepts, ultimately for the unified benefit of the communities and customers.”David Heine is the CEO of the Regional Australia Bank. When he was approached by Summerland Bank, his reaction was positive, “I was very honoured. “We have watched the Summerland Bank team play a critical role within the Northern Rivers region for many years. They have provided us with a great example of how a regionally focused mutual bank can be relevant in today’s modern age. “Their support and care for their customers and the community is a clear contrast to the lip service that the major banks too often pay.”Mr Williams says they know each other's organisations relatively well. The Regional Australia Bank is three times the size of Summerland Bank, so a merger would place them as about the 10th largest customer-owned bank in Australia, which gives customers scale, “And scale gives you pricing efficiency and efficiency in operation. “This is two strong, well respected, financial organisations coming together to create an even better proposition. It's not something that either of us have to do. It's something that both of us want to do.”Both banks are customer-owned and have shared interests. Mr Williams says, “Culturally, we're very aligned in our proposition to customers, although we have slightly different focus areas.“Regional Australia Bank has a very firm commitment to providing banking services to regional Australians, and so does Summerland. We both have a strong commitment to face-to-face banking and actually growing the branch network, as opposed to many other financial institutions, particularly the major banks, who are decreasing their branch network.“Regional has a focus area around social, and we have a focus area around the environment. So we believe that there's, there's a lot of synergies, but then the differences are also powerful to bring together.”This difference plays an important part in a highly sought-after B Corp certification affiliated with Summerland Bank. Mr Heine says, “B Corp certification is quite rightly difficult to obtain and tough to retain. While Regional Australia Bank has not yet achieved this status, we have always been aligned with the principles of B Corp. “The merger gives us the incentive to close out any remaining gaps so that we can preserve this hard-won certification.“Summerland Banks B Corp status is certainly a feature that I know many of our members will highly value.”Other benefits to customers include the extended (47) branch and ATM network, digital offerings and better technology around scams and prevention.Mr Heine says, “Our members are looking forward to being able to access an extended network of branches and the professional, caring staff that are the core of Summerland Bank. The additional scale created by the merger will also help drive prices down and shorten the time required to deliver new and exciting products and services.”There isn’t any overlap of branches, which Mr Williams sees as an important factor, “That means there is no need for any branch closures. And we've made a strong commitment to the staff of both organisations that there will also be no job losses.”Mr Heine sees other benefits to Summerland customers, “Customers will see the same level of high-quality care and commitment built on a common set of values and a belief that regions such as the Northern Rivers deserve a bit of help and support. “When times get tough, the merged organisation will be able to bring even greater resources to the table to support customers in need. Customers will also see better pricing reflecting our increased scale and a product set that will benefit from faster innovation and investment.”But you can’t have two CEO’s… Mr Williams has considered this and it was included in the offer, “David Heine would be the CEO of the merged organisation, and I will be Deputy CEO in charge of strategy. I'll still be based here in Lismore, and we will become a key regional office location.”The head office of the Regional Australia Bank is in Armidale.  Mr Heine is pleased to outline “One feature that I am sure that Summerland Bank customers will receive well is our Community Partnership Program. In 2024, Regional Australia Bank distributed over $2.8m to over 2,000 community organisations. “This annual program is tangible proof of our commitment to invest into our communities. I can’t wait to bring that support to the Northern Rivers region.”The road ahead to a full merger will take well over a year. Mr Williams iterates, “It's not our decision to make; it's our customer's decision because we are customer-owned banks.”The Memorandum of Understanding, or the intention to explore a merger, is the first step in a year of checks and balances before the vote will go to the customers. Risks, opportunities and benefits will be assessed by the banks themselves and third-party consultants to ensure due diligence is maintained.“The two boards need to make a decision independently that the merger is in the best interest of customers,” says Mr Williams, “Once having made that determination, the decision goes to a vote of members of both organisations.”That will take place at each bank's AGM, which is already set for November next year. “We know each other's organisation relatively well, so we're not anticipating any risks to materialise, but we need to go through the process and ensure that's the case for our customers.”Then, a name and branding and all the aspects of rolling two companies into one can begin. “The proposed legal merger date will be 1 July 2026.” For now, it's business as usual.