Southern Cross University has appointed two senior executives to its Executive Leadership Team: Professor Julie Jomeen as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) and Professor Tim Smith as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research).Professor Jomeen currently serves as Executive Dean of the Faculty of Health at Southern Cross University. In her new role, she will lead the University’s learning and teaching strategy and have direct oversight of the academic faculties and colleges, with responsibility for academic quality, curriculum renewal and student outcomes. A highly regarded academic leader and internationally recognised researcher in midwifery, women’s health and mental health, Professor Jomeen brings extensive experience in academic governance and curriculum innovation. Southern Cross University Vice-Chancellor Professor Tyrone Carlin said Professor Jomeen’s appointment provides continuity and academic leadership as the University continues to evolve its learning and teaching approach.“Professor Julie Jomeen has already made a significant contribution to Southern Cross University through her leadership in health and human sciences,” he said. “Her appointment provides academic strength at an important time for the University, with a clear focus on high-quality learning experiences that prepare our students for the future and respond to the needs of the communities we serve.” Newly appointed Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) Professor Tim Smith joins Southern Cross University from the University of Waikato, where he has held senior leadership roles, including Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Division of Arts, Law, Psychology and Social Sciences.  An alumnus of Southern Cross University, Professor Smith is an internationally recognised geographer and climate expert with extensive experience in research leadership and partnership development. As Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), he will lead the University’s research strategy, focusing on strengthening research quality, impact and collaboration. Professor Carlin said Professor Smith’s experience will support the University’s continued focus on research performance and impact. “As Southern Cross University continues to strengthen its research performance, Professor Smith’s expertise will help ensure our research delivers meaningful outcomes for communities, industry and the environment, while building on the strong foundations already in place,” he said. The appointments come as Southern Cross University continues a period of significant academic and institutional transformation, with sustained improvements in research quality, citation performance and research income alongside major innovation in learning and teaching through the Southern Cross Model.  Julie will commence as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) on 2nd March 2026, and Tim will commence in the role on 6th July 2026.

More than 600 drivers have been detected allegedly driving with drugs in their systems during a statewide police traffic operation last week, which included a driver at Wardell.Operation RAID (Remove All Impaired Drivers) commenced at 12am on Thursday (12 February 2026) and concluded at 4am Sunday (15 February 2026), targeting people driving while affected by alcohol, drugs and fatigue.During the operation, police conducted 9,126 drug tests with 604 people returning positive samples and conducted more than 121,000 breath tests with 167 drink driving offences detected.In the Northern Region, there were 1,802 total infringements, which included 480 for speeding, 44 for PCA charges, 166 positive drug driving tests and 43 crashes.Locally, about 11.05pm on Saturday, 14 February 2026, police from Ballina Traffic and Highway Patrol attempted to stop a hatchback on Langs Way, Woodburn. When the vehicle failed to stop, a pursuit was initiated where the vehicle allegedly reached speeds of up to 200KPH. The pursuit was terminated due to safety concerns, before the hatchback crashed near Wardell. Police arrested the driver, a 33-year-old woman, nearby, allegedly locating prohibited drugs after searching the woman and vehicle. She was taken to Ballina Police Station, where an oral fluid test returned positive for cannabis, methamphetamine and cocaine. She was charged with police pursuit – not stop – drive recklessly, possess prohibited drug and class A vehicle exceed speed limit greater than 45KPH. She will appear before Ballina Local Court on Thursday, 26 February 2026. The oral fluid test has been sent away for analysis.Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said the focus on targeting people driving while affected by alcohol, drugs and fatigue doesn’t end with the conclusion of this operation.“While Operation RAID has wrapped up, police continue to have a highly visible presence on our roads.“Too many lives have been shattered because someone thought they were fine to drive when they weren’t.“Too much of what happens on our roads is preventable. Police are out there every day, but they can’t be everywhere – we need drivers to make better, safer choices – for themselves, their passengers and everyone else.”Assistant Commissioner David Driver, Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, said, disappointingly, drivers continued to get behind the wheel after consuming drugs and too much alcohol.“People affected by drugs, alcohol and fatigue are some of the most dangerous behaviours we see on our roads because all of them slows reactions, impair judgement and puts every road user at risk,” Assistant Commissioner Driver said.“Drug use by those driving vehicles is particularly concerning as data indicates that 24 per cent of fatalities on NSW roads involve the presence of illicit substances”.“Last year, there were over 28,000 positive roadside drug indications with police conducting over 215,000 random drug tests.“Drivers need to understand that when they consume any illicit drug, the chances of being involved in a fatal crash increase.“Unfortunately, police consistently see a high number of roadside drug test detections, often combined with alcohol or high speeds, during each traffic operation, which is why officers will continue to run enforcement activity to deter dangerous driving behaviour.”

A much-loved Lismore preschool is preparing to mark a major milestone, celebrating 50 years of caring for generations of local children with a community gathering later this month.Lismore Parish Centre Preschool will celebrate its 50th birthday this Saturday, 21 February 2026, inviting past families, former students, staff and community members to come together and reflect on half a century of early childhood education in the heart of the city.Administrator Jo Kilburn says the preschool’s beginnings are firmly rooted in grassroots community spirit.“It started 50 years ago by a group of community members who wanted an outreach program for mums, families and children,” she said. “About 20 people came together in someone’s lounge room, raised around $3,000, which was a lot of money back then, and that’s how the idea of a community preschool was born.”Photos from the early days (image supplied)The preschool found a home at the Parish Centre after a local reverend suggested there was space available.For Jo, the anniversary is also deeply personal. While she has worked at the preschool for 14 years, her family’s connection goes back much further.“My younger brother and sister were here in the first five years after it opened,” she said. “My family’s been associated with the preschool for about 45 years now. Then my own children came here too, so it’s been a big part of our lives.”Over the decades, the preschool has weathered challenges shared by the wider Lismore community, including floods and the COVID pandemic. During lockdowns, staff kept the connection alive for families.“We were open for essential services children, and for those at home we did online programs and sent out little activity kits,” Jo said. “It was a really isolating time for staff too. We split into two teams that didn’t overlap so we could keep operating safely.”Through working bees, grants and family support, the preschool has continued to evolve. A new indoor-outdoor bathroom redevelopment is the next major project, designed to improve accessibility and supervision for children.What makes the preschool special, Jo says, is its continuity.“There’s not a lot of staff turnover, and that’s something community preschools do really well,” she said. “We’re also seeing third-generation families now, which is pretty special. Parents say, ‘This is where I went to preschool,’ and sometimes even grandparents were here too.”The 50th birthday celebrations will reflect that strong sense of history and connection. From 2.30pm, the preschool will be open for a short walkthrough, followed by the planting of a commemorative tree. The afternoon will continue in the parish hall with a slideshow of photos spanning decades, displays of old class pictures, afternoon tea, cake cutting and plenty of shared memories.“It won’t be too formal,” Jo said. “Just a nice, relaxed afternoon celebrating 50 years of the preschool and the community that’s supported it.”The celebration is more than a birthday, it’s a reminder of how community-led ideas can grow into lasting institutions, shaping generations along the way.

Lismore’s Kate Hepburn is heading to Sydney after being crowned The Land Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Young Woman – Zone 1 winner at the final hosted by Kyogle Show Society last night.In a field of impressive young women from across the North Coast and Mid North Coast, Kate emerged as the sole Zone 1 representative progressing to the Sydney Royal Show in April, and she admits she’s still coming to terms with it.“I was not expecting anything out of Zone and I was just in so much shock last night,” Kate said.The Zone 1 finalists included representatives from Gloucester (Jessica Kernahan), Murwillumbah (Jazmin Harris), Kyogle (Victoria Reardon), Lismore (Kate Hepburn), Casino (Taylor Humphreys), Kempsey (Raylene Cattell), Wauchope (Brianna Ducker), Bangalow (Kate Hulbert), Maclean (Grace Carr) and Coffs Harbour (Keeley Gardner).Kate said she almost didn’t nominate last year.“I wasn’t even going to do this… and then they’re like, ‘Kate, come on, we need someone.’ And I thought, right, I’ll give it a crack,” she said. “I’ve always sort of been involved with it. I’ve done Teen and that, so I said, why not?”North Coast National Young Woman winner Kate Hepburn, and Teen Showgirl winner Elsie Wilkinson (image supplied)From her first nervous interview at Lismore Show in October to the calm confidence she felt on stage at Zone, Kate says the transformation has been remarkable.“Even from Lismore I was nervous going into the interview… I was sitting there like, ‘Okay, what’s the next question? Come on,’” she laughed. “But come to Zone and I felt so calm. I don’t even know what happened. You just get used to it after a while. It all helps so much.”A key part of that growth came from the AgShows NSW development weekend in Dubbo, where 53 young women from across the state came together.“You don’t actually realise what it’s about until you get to Zone,” she said. “I went down to Dubbo and met half the girls, and I’ve had so many of them message me since. They’re like your best friends once you actually get to meet them. It’s amazing what they’re doing.”The Zone final itself was a full day of interviews, shared meals with judges and an on-stage presentation before the winner was announced.“You have your interview in the morning, then lunch with the judges, then you get ready for dinner and do the on-stage interview,” Kate explained. “You’re mingling all night, talking to new people. It’s such a good experience.”Now, her focus shifts to Sydney. Kate will be mentored by Tara Coles, a former North Coast National representative who will guide her through preparations ahead of the Sydney Royal Show.“You go to Sydney and you get involved in big corporate dinners, you get to go to the Governor’s House, there’s a cruise around the harbour,” she said. “You just get to learn so much. It’s insane.”While Zone 1 traditionally sends two representatives, this year Kate will be the only one travelling to Sydney.“Yeah, no pressure at all,” she joked.More than anything, Kate says the program has opened doors she didn’t even know were there.“The people who don’t know about it… I think we need to explain what’s involved, because nobody knows,” she said. “It is such an incredible experience to get out, get involved, meet new people. Everybody says it and you don’t believe it until you actually do it.”Kate’s win is another reminder of the strength of the region’s agricultural and show community, and the young leaders emerging from it.

It was announced over the weekend that options to reduce household insurance costs and fix an unfair funding model for emergency services will be put to a NSW parliamentary inquiry.While emergency services benefit everyone, most of their funding comes from a levy that not everyone pays. Currently, the burden of paying for the ESL is unfairly placed only on those who take out property insurance. The cost of this levy for residential insurance has increased 48% from 2017-18 to 2023-24, adding pressure on household budgets.This was experienced by households across Lismore and the Northern Rivers following the 2022 big flood. Including the ESL as part of property insurance has been a discussion point locally for nearly four years, and finally, the wheels of government are beginning to turn.The government says it is committed to removing the Emergency Services Levy (ESL) and replacing it with a simple and transparent levy spread across all properties.All mainland states, apart from NSW, have implemented property-based levies to fund their emergency services.In November 2023, the NSW Government committed to reforming the ESL. The parliamentary inquiry will build on extensive public consultation carried out since then, and seeks to develop a consensus and strengthen support for the reform’s direction. To inform the inquiry process, the Government will release an options paper which includes five levy model options. This follows a comprehensive collection of property-level insurance policy data and land classifications performed by local councils under legislative amendments.In designing the reform, the Government is also committed to protecting pensioners and vulnerable members of the community and ensuring a revenue-neutral model for sustainably funding emergency services agencies.Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said, “This is an important step in moving funding for emergency services to an equitable and sustainable footing that cuts the cost of insurance.“The parliamentary inquiry will provide an open and transparent forum to test the proposed framework and ensure stakeholder perspectives are meaningfully considered.“We want to work with the Opposition and the crossbench to plot the last leg of this journey. This system funds services that protect all of us – and it is time for all politicians to work together to reform it.”

NSW Premier Chris Minns has announced an additional public holiday on the Monday following Anzac Day this year and in 2027.Under the Public Holidays Act 2010, Anzac Day is fixed to 25 April each year regardless of the day on which it falls. In 2026, Anzac Day will fall on a Saturday, and in 2027 it will fall on a Sunday.This will not change; however, there will be an additional public holiday this year and in 2027.25 April will always remain the day of national commemoration. Dawn Services, marches and community ceremonies held on that day will continue to be the central focus of remembrance across NSW.Anzac Day is not simply a date on the calendar; it is a living tradition observed in towns, suburbs and cities right across our state.Each year, thousands of families rise before dawn, gather at local memorials, march alongside veterans and reflect on the service and sacrifice that shaped our nation.The government says that the additional holiday on Monday does not replace Anzac Day. Rather, it reinforces its importance and significance, as well as making it consistent with other major public holidays.Unlike New Year’s Day, Christmas Day and Boxing Day, there are currently no additional public holiday arrangements in place in NSW when Anzac Day falls on a weekend, which occurs on average twice every seven years.NSW has fewer public holidays than all other mainland states and territories.Prior to the addition of the Anzac Day holiday, NSW had 11 public holidays in 2026, compared with 15 in South Australia and the Northern Territory and 14 in Queensland, Victoria and the Australian Capital Territory and on par with Tasmania’s 11 public holidays this year.The experience of the additional public holidays will form part of a NSW Government review of the state’s public holidays to commence in 2027, which will consider:the current number of state-wide public holidays in NSWwhether NSW should have an additional public holidaywhether there should be a permanent change to Anzac Day public holiday arrangements when Anzac Day falls on a weekendThe review will be informed by community, business, veteran groups and other stakeholder feedback, as well as the economic and social impacts of the additional public holiday in 2026 and 2027.Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said, “Anzac Day on 25 April is one of the most important and solemn days on our national calendar, and that will not change.“We have a tremendous amount of reverence for Anzac Day across our communities, especially among our veterans and their families.“Each year, thousands of families rise before dawn, gather at local memorials, march alongside veterans and reflect on the service and sacrifice that shaped our nation.“Adding a public holiday when Anzac Day falls on a weekend will not diminish that tradition. If anything, it is a reminder of its importance and another reason for people to get up, attend a local service and ensure the spirit of remembrance continues to be passed on to the next generation.”Minister for Industrial Relations Sophie Cotsis said, “Anzac Day continues to hold important cultural significance across the state as we honour those who served our nation.“NSW has fewer public holidays than any other state or territory, and that’s something worth examining thoughtfully.“This review will look at whether the balance is right for workers, families and businesses, and whether there is a case for change going forward.”Minister for Veterans David Harris said, “Anzac Day is about remembrance, reflection and respect for those who have served and sacrificed for our nation.“Ensuring people have the time to commemorate properly on 25 April won’t change and we will continue to commemorate at the many Dawn Services and Marches that take place throughout our communities to honour that service.”Acting President RSL NSW Vince Williams said, “RSL NSW’s primary concern is that the sanctity and significance of Anzac Day is protected, and we welcome Premier Minns’ assurance that Anzac Day itself will remain the central focus of national commemoration, observed with the respect and reflection it deserves.“Having consulted members, RSL NSW does not oppose the introduction of an additional public holiday, and looks forward to continuing to work constructively with the defence and veteran community and the NSW Government as the trial progresses. “Additionally, a public holiday on Monday will also provide many serving Australian Defence Force personnel who are required to work on Anzac Day itself with an opportunity to spend quality time with their loved ones.”

NORPA’s highly anticipated production of Prima Facie opened on Thursday night (12 February) at the Byron Theatre to a full house, launching its Northern Rivers season with a powerful and emotionally charged performance from Matilda Ridgway. Directed by Heather Fairbairn, the production was celebrated with a standing ovation and a palpable sense of reflection. Under Fairbairn’s assured direction, Ridgway delivered a commanding performance that charted one woman’s journey through power, belief and disillusionment within the justice system. NORPA will present three more sold-out performances of Prima Facie in Byron Bay, before the production tours to Tweed Heads, Murwillumbah, Kyogle, Grafton and Lismore. Lismore performances are on Friday, February 27 at 7:30pm, with two performances on Saturday, February 28 at 1:30pm and 7:30pm. You can book tickets by clicking here. NORPA Artistic Director Julian Louis said the sold-out opening confirmed the appetite for bold, relevant theatre across the region. “To see audiences turn out in such strong numbers for a work like Prima Facie speaks volumes about the depth and engagement of our communities,” he said. “The Village Circuit has been created to bring professional and world-class storytelling directly to our towns, and opening to a full house shows just how ready the Northern Rivers is for theatre that challenges, moves and connects us.” The production also showcases an exceptional creative team, including Northern Rivers–based costume designer Ella Lincoln, lighting and set designer Véronique Benett, and sound designer Julian Starr, whose combined work created a riveting and intimate theatrical experience. Prima Facie continues touring throughout February as the inaugural production of NORPA’s new Village Circuit.

In a decisive step to support state housing supply priorities and deliver on the community’s call for more diverse housing options, Lismore City Council will investigate issuing dwelling entitlements to vacant rural lots with suitable building sites across the LGA, following a motion at this week's Ordinary Council meeting.The approach has the potential to rapidly increase flood-free housing by leveraging existing land and infrastructure while aligning with the Community Strategic Plan’s focus on responsible planning and sustainable growth.Moving the motion, Councillor Andrew Gordon said the proposal represented a practical and cost-effective way to increase housing supply without placing additional pressure on Council or ratepayers.“This is about unlocking housing that already exists in our rural areas and doing it in a way that is financially responsible,” Cr Gordon said.“We have been making great progress in delivering desperately needed flood-free housing for Lismore. New residential subdivisions are under construction across this city, and many more Development Applications are in the pipeline,” he said.“However, we have vacant flood-free rural lots that already exist right across our LGA, without a dwelling entitlement. Without this entitlement, the landowners cannot obtain approval to build a home with much of the property sitting vacant for decades.“By enabling a dwelling entitlement for suitable, flood-free building sites, we can deliver more housing faster, without the cost and complexity of new subdivisions or major infrastructure investment.”“With this single decision, we could deliver more flood-free housing potential than all the other residential subdivisions combined.”Council will now assess how dwelling entitlements could be applied in a way that protects rural character and environment while significantly expanding flood-free housing supply.The proposal responds to the shared priority of all levels of government to increase housing supply quickly by removing unnecessary planning barriers and making better use of existing land.If adopted, the model would demonstrate how local governments can play a decisive role in addressing the housing shortage, unlocking existing land, reducing infrastructure burden and delivering responsible outcomes the community has clearly asked for.

If you are on social media, a number of Lismore App readers would know that former Lismore mayor Jenny Dowell is approaching the end of her life.Last Thursday, I sat down with Jenny on the veranda in her Goonellabah home overlooking a backyard filled with trees, plants and flowers, to let Jenny tell her story in a Talking Lismore podcast.In this deeply personal interview, Jenny reflects on her original breast cancer diagnosis four days after becoming the Mayor of Lismore in 2008, to this terminal cancer diagnosis, her decision to pursue voluntary assisted dying (VAD), and the peace she has found in planning the end of her life.Seventeen years after surviving breast cancer, Jenny believed she was “through this, and cancer had left my body, and for good.” Regular mammograms and blood tests showed nothing. “I had 17 years of blissful ignorance,” she says, unaware that undetectable cells had spread through her spine and pelvis.Last May, after a seven-day bushwalk in Mount Kaputar, near Narrabri, and another at the Warrumbungle National Park, Jenny helped a friend with an esky, hurting her back. When the pain didn't go away naturally, she saw her doctor, had scans and received the devastating news that she had cancer in her spine and pelvis, and that it was incurable. “It hit me like a ton of bricks," Jenny said.Initially, Jenny was prescribed a new hormone-blocking treatment related to the original breast cancer, but she struggled with severe side effects.“Terrible nausea, shocking fatigue, no appetite, I lost lots of weight immediately. I was barely functioning,” she says. “Food tasted awful. I couldn’t stand the smell of cooking.” Faced with limited time—“possibly 12 months, possibly only six”—she chose quality of life over quantity.“All of a sudden you're going, what sort of life do I want? Weighing up quality versus quantity. And I would always choose quality,” she explains.A month ago, in January 2026, after inconclusive scan results, Jenny decided to stop treatment. “That’s it. I’m stopping. I just want to have my pain relief.”Jenny has since applied for VAD under New South Wales legislation. The process requires two independent medical assessments to confirm mental capacity and prognosis. So far, she says, it’s been “tick, tick.” She speaks candidly about the two available pathways—doctor-administered or self-administered medication to end her life—carefully weighing her options.The doctor-administered medication achieves a quicker result, but the compromise is that you have a doctor in the room, instead of just family. With the self-administered medication, you "have to physically be able to lift it to your mouth and drink it, and swallow". Jenny is leaning towards the latter, but doesn't have to make the final decision yet.When asked about how Jenny's family is coping with her decision and the journey ahead, she said they have been central to her finding peace. “We’re very open,” she says of her husband Ron and their two adult children. “Nothing’s off limits.” She feels fortunate to have universal support, acknowledging that others can face resistance from loved ones. “I’m lucky. I don’t have that. I have everyone around me.”Rather than fear, Jenny expresses gratitude. Reflecting on the 17 years between diagnoses, oblivious to her new cancer spreading through her spine and pelvis, she says, “They were the best 17 years of my public life.” At 75, she feels “satisfied… I wouldn’t change anything.”As Jenny's pain increases, on top of relief medication, she performs daily mindfulness rituals—“five things I can see, four things I can hear, three things I can feel, two things I can smell and one thing I can taste …”—that takes two minutes and leaves her feeling calm and grounded in the present. “I’m not a religious person,” she says, “but I have my moments of reflection and being in the moment.”Not many people get to plan their own funeral, but Jenny has. She has written her eulogy and gifted treasured belongings. “The luxury of having the opportunity to gift things now… feels good.”When asked how she wants to be remembered, she answers simply: “That I cared… that I always had time to listen.”In her closing words, she expresses gratitude to her community: “Lismore is my soul place… You’ve given me my soul place, and I’ve loved every minute of it. So thank you.”Jenny Dowell's full interview runs over 30 minutes and covers more details and emotions than I can include in this story. Some people will find it confronting, and some will not agree with Jenny's choices, but you have to admire her strength and her willingness to still help people by sharing her end-of-life story.To listen to the complete chat, click Talking Lismore podcast.

This will come as no surprise to many, but the Bureau of Meteorology has said that flooding is no longer expected in Lismore and the Northern Rivers.Since 9:00 am Friday, widespread rainfall totals up to 100 mm have been recorded over the Tweed and Wilsons River catchments. This has resulted in river level rises in those catchments. The Northern Rivers catchments are moderately wet after recent rainfall.Locally, Terania Creek recorded 132mm in the last 24 hours, while Goonengerry had 78mm. Green Pigeon, north of Kyogle, recorded 208.8mm and Mullumbimby 168mm.Although Lismore's rainfall was light, 18mm in the last 24 hours at the airport and 29mm at Dawson Street, the concern was the rainfall falling in the upper catchment.The BoM reports that heavy rainfall has eased and light to moderate rainfall is forecast over the Northern Rivers catchments during the next few days. Lismore is now forecast to receive between 6 and 25mm tomorrow (Sunday).Flooding is no longer expected over the Northern Rivers catchments; however, the Bureau of Meteorology is continuing to monitor the situation and will issue catchment-specific warnings if and when required.Flooding is no longer expected in the following catchment(s): Tweed and Rous, Brunswick and Marshalls, Wilsons and RichmondFor the latest flood and weather warnings, see www.bom.gov.au/weather-and-climate/warnings-and-alerts.For the latest rainfall and river level information, see www.bom.gov.au/australia/flood.

After more than a year of structured community consultation, Lismore City Council has resolved to formally adopt the Clunes Master Plan, a long-term framework designed to guide growth over the next 10 to 20 years while safeguarding the village character residents value.The final plan was endorsed by Council at Tuesday's February Ordinary meeting 10/1 (Councillor Adam Guise voted against) and supported by the Clunes Community Reference Group following changes made in response to community feedback.Rather than fast-tracking development, the Master Plan establishes a clear, staged roadmap for how and when change may occur, providing certainty for residents while strengthening protections for the village’s landscape, heritage and environmental assets.Mayor Steve Krieg said the adopted plan reflects a process where the community set the direction and Council responded.“This plan was shaped by what people told us mattered most, protecting Clune’s character, improving safety and amenity and planning carefully for the future,” he said“It gives Council a clear mandate to manage growth responsibly, not to rush it.”“The outcome is a future shaped together,” he said.The Master Plan now sets the practical blueprint for what happens next, from staged growth options and a future Development Control Plan to stronger environmental safeguards such as the Urban Green Corridor.It also prioritises walking, safety and amenity upgrades to be progressed in partnership with key agencies such as Transport for NSW.Council’s Director of Planning and Economy Graham Snow said the adopted Master Plan gives Council a clearer planning framework for future decisions and provides the community with clarity on how change will be managed over time.“This is about sequencing, safeguards and certainty,” he said.“The Master Plan sets out staged growth options and the planning tools needed to manage change properly,” he said.Mr Snow also said the Urban Green Corridor was a key example of how the plan balances protection with sensible planning.“The Urban Green Corridor protects and strengthens ecological connections and waterways while guiding development to appropriate locations,” he said.“From here, the work is about turning the framework into deliverables; detailed design, agency partnerships and prioritised program of works delivered over time.”The Clunes Master Plan community engagement began in November 2024 with two open drop-in sessions, supported by an online survey and virtual ideas board on Council’s Your Say page. Further engagement took place from December 2024 to the end of 2025 with additional drop-in sessions at the Clunes Coronation Hall to test the draft vision statement and themes for the Master Plan.Engagement and planning support was provided by Ethos Urban, Living Lab Northern Rivers and Barker Ryan Stewart, working with Lismore City Council’s project team.Key outcomes in the adopted Master PlanClearer growth pathways and staging, including a future Development Control Plan (DCP). A DCP sits under the Local Environment Plan and spells out the design, character and technical details to ensure development is consistent.Stronger environmental protections, including the Clunes Urban Green Corridor and clearer intent around waterways, vegetation and biodiversity.Safer village movement with a focus on gateway treatments, traffic calming, crossings, lighting and intersection upgrades, progressed with Transport for NSW.Improved amenities and open space planning, including prioritised footpaths, public toilet upgrades, seating and shade, play space improvements and clearer direction on open space and the sports field location.Cost clarity on sewerage with Council confirming it will not pursue sewer feasibility for existing homes

As the war on illegal tobacco and vaping products continues, the NSW Government will recruit an additional thirty full-time equivalent tobacco inspectors to boost the NSW Health’s newly established Centre for Regulation & Enforcement with additional funding from the Commonwealth Government. The new Inspectors bring the dedicated state-wide team to a total of 78 staff.Over half of the additional 30 have commenced or are about to commence, and the other half are in the process of being recruited.The NSW and Commonwealth governments have previously discussed the impact of the high level of the federal tobacco excise, which is driving many consumers towards cheaper illegal tobacco products. Federal Government excise is about $1.40 per cigarette, so a pack of 20 cigarettes, which costs around $40, $28 of the price goes to the government.Under the NSW Government’s tough new laws, which have introduced closure order powers, NSW Health Inspectors, working together with NSW Police, are continuing to close down stores selling illicit tobacco and vaping goods.The closure of five tobacconists in Sydney’s Inner West last week by NSW Health Inspectors and NSW Police brings the total to 66 stores closed since the laws came into effect in November 2025.Between 1 January 2026 to 31 January 2026, NSW Health Inspectors have conducted 131 inspections, seizing around 560,000 cigarettes and 98kg of other illicit tobacco products and over 6000 illegal vaping goods with a combined estimated street value of around $830,000. In January, NSW Health has also finalised 4 successful prosecutions with the courts imposing a total of $41,300 in fines related to e-cigarette and tobacco offences. There are currently 20 prosecutions before the Courts.  The NSW Government is continuing to strengthen compliance and enforcement of tobacco and vaping goods laws across NSW, with the Public Health (Tobacco) Amendment (Landlord Offences) Bill 2025 currently before Parliament and expected to be debated in the coming weeks.The legislation will build on recent reforms which target the illicit tobacco and illegal vaping market, including:a new offence for the possession of a commercial quantity of illicit tobacco with a maximum penalty of over $1.5 million and 7 years' imprisonment, or bothnew penalties for the sale of illicit tobacco with a maximum penalty of over $1.5 million and 7 years' imprisonment, or boththe introduction of short-term (up to 90 days) and long-term (up to 12 months) closure orders for premises selling illicit tobacco, illegal vaping goods, or selling tobacco or non-tobacco smoking products without a licence new offences and penalties for anyone who breaches these closure orders, including for entering closed premises or selling products from closed premisesnew lease termination powers for landlords where a closure order is in placenew nation-leading offences for falsely claiming to be licensed, resisting seizure, and attempting to retake seized products.The NSW Government is also aware that the sale of illicit tobacco and vaping products continues to evolve, with some retailers attempting to obscure and avoid the enforcement activities of NSW Health Inspectors, by using QR codes and social media communications to facilitate the ongoing sale of illicit tobacco to customers after a closure order has been issued.  NSW Police and NSW Health are working together to identify these methods and pivot their enforcement strategies to shut down this activity. Minister for Health Ryan Park said, “I am very grateful for the additional support from the Commonwealth Government to assist in our tobacco enforcement efforts.“It is an acknowledgement that the federal tobacco excise is out of step with the community and it is driving consumers towards cheaper illegal tobacco products.“The assistance from the Commonwealth will help us get ahead of the prevalence of illegal tobacco over the next two years.“But so long as the federal excise is where it is, we can continue to see illegal tobacco permeate throughout our high streets – and so I will continue to work constructively with our Commonwealth colleagues in establishing a more sustainable, long term and permanent funding stream for tobacco enforcement personnel.“Our approach to illegal tobacco is more boots on the ground; tougher penalties; and more powers to close down bad actors.”

In two weeks' time, on March 1, parents of children with undiagnosed attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) will be able to use a less costly and simpler pathway to diagnose their child as some GPs begin training to diagnose the disorder. Nearly 600 NSW general practitioners have expressed their interest in undertaking training to be able to diagnose and treat ADHD from March.With a focus on improving access to healthcare in regional, rural and remote areas, GPs working in areas of greatest need will be prioritised for training.More than 800 GPs have been trained to fill repeat ADHD medication scripts as part of the first phase of reforms. This has enabled ADHD patients to be prescribed essential medication via their GPs, saving patients and their families a trip to see a psychiatrist or paediatrician. Since 1 September 2025, over 5000 patients have benefitted from the new arrangement, with increased access and over 18,000 scripts filled thanks to this important change.Previously, most people seeking ADHD care had to navigate a costly and overloaded non-GP specialist system, experiencing long wait times and high fees, which could delay treatment, particularly for children.These delays can impact children’s development, such as poorer academic progress, and later impact employment opportunities and mental health.Applications for GPs wishing to enrol in stage two of the reform remain open; however, training spots are limited, so those interested are being encouraged to act soon. Training costs will be covered by NSW Health, with a remuneration package available to those who complete the training. A waiting list will also be maintained for future training opportunities.GPs can also apply to become a continuation prescriber.GPs will continue to make specialist referrals and escalate care, as required, to ensure patients are receiving the treatment they need, when and where they need it.More information is available at ADHD care in general practice, and GPs with any questions are encouraged to contact MOH-ADHDreforms@health.nsw.gov.au.Minister for Health Ryan Park said, “With nearly 600 GPs already expressing their interest to receive training to diagnose ADHD, and over 800 already trained to prescribe ongoing medication, these reforms are expanding capacity to support the greater health system.“Accessing ADHD diagnosis services in regional and rural communities is a challenge. As part of this next step, we’re prioritising training of GPs in the bush so families can get the care they need closer to home. “We know the impact high-quality ADHD care can have on family wellbeing, we are deeply committed to ensuring children in metro and regional NSW are not left behind.“If you’d like to speak to a doctor about ADHD diagnosis, I encourage you to discuss with your regular GP to understand if they will provide this assessment.”Quotes attributable to Minister for Mental Health Rose Jackson said, “Feedback from everyone involved in these reforms so far has been incredibly positive, with some going as far as saying it’s been life-changing for managing their treatment.“We’re incredibly excited to move to the next stage, where GPs can undertake training to actually diagnose ADHD. It’s the next step in building a system where ADHD care is based on need, not income.“We have already worked to reduce long waiting lists just to refill scripts – now we’re helping reduce the stress and anxiety many feel while waiting for an ADHD diagnosis.”RACGP NSW & ACT Chair Dr Rebekah Hoffman said, “The evidence indicates up to 10% of children, and 6% of adults, live with ADHD. This is a common condition that can be diagnosed and managed well by a specialist GP with appropriate training.“The reforms announced by the NSW Government will make a huge difference to thousands of patients in our state. Access to an ADHD diagnosis and ongoing care is very often life-changing.“ADHD affects many aspects of a person’s life and health – their sleep, their education, how they interact with others. GPs are specialists in whole-of-person care, and are well-placed to help patients with ADHD to thrive at school, in university, at work, and at home.”

Predictably, this Valentine's Day weekend is all about the weather rather than what is on in and around the Lismore LGA.About 24mm has fallen at the Lismore Airport in the last 24 hours, which is a good result given it could have been so much worse.The NSW SES is suggesting people STAY INFORMED about the predicted minor flooding for the Wilsons River.The BoM are forecasting 2-20mm for Saturday and a further 10-45mm on Sunday, before conditions ease to a shower or two for Monday.You can easily stay up to date with the BoM forecasts and warnings through the Lismore App Weather & Travel.The Lismore Farmers Markets are asking you to bring a brolly and gumboots when the gates open at 7:30am at the Lismore Showgrounds tomorrow.There will be lots of fresh fruit and veg, plus coffee, tea and breakfast, with live music from Croaker & the Honeybee.The Sunday Bowlo Markets have been cancelled thanks to the rainfall forecast for Sunday.The Lismore Free Markets at the Lismore Community Garden have been postponed one week for February, so will now take place next Sunday, February 22.As it is more of an indoor weekend, you can take the family roller skating at Rollerworld in North Lismore or catch a movie at the newly reopened Lismore Cinemas.BAREFOOT BOWLSWednesday's weather is sunny and 30 degrees, so if you haven't, grab a team of four people, call Sharon on 0416 282 247, and book a team in for the second night of the All In The Same Boat Barefoot Bowls Challenge.A fun night was had by all, including the winning Lismore App team, last Wednesday. As Lismore continues to rebuild, it is a good time to get together and for business owners, managers and staff to have a chat and a laugh, and hopefully, roll a few good bowls down the green.LIVE MUSIC and ENTERTAINMENTComing up at the Lismore Workers Club:Faulty Towers The Dining Experience Friday, 6 March 2026Inxsive & Gold Chisel Tribute Show Saturday, 21 March 2026The Italian Tenors Sunday, 19 April 2026The Sydney Hotshots Saturday, June 13An Evening with Fatty & Sterlo Saturday, June 20To book tickets to any of the above concerts, click here.CHEAPEST FUEL PRICESFuel prices were stagnant in Lismore, except for diesel, which was down 2 cents a litre. Ballina and Casino both saw price reductions this week between 2 and 4 cents a litre.Here is the list of the cheapest service stations for this week:E10 is 169.9 across most of Lismore, 169.9 at The United and NightOwl Puma on Johnston Street in Casino, and 165.5 at the Mobil and Metro on River Street, Ballina.Unleaded 91 is 170.9 at the Astron on Ballina Road, 171.9 at The United and the NightOwl Puma on Johnston Street in Casino, and 167.5 at the Mobil and Metro on River Street, Ballina.U95 is 179.9 at the two Independents on Terania Street, North Lismore, the Liberty on Ballina Road, Lismore and the Independent on Wyrallah Road, East Lismore, 197.9 at the EG Ampol at 130 Canterbury Street in Casino, and 179.5 at the Metro on River Street, Ballina.U98 is 187.9 at the Astron and Liberty on Ballina Road, Lismore, the Independent on Wyrallah Road, East Lismore, the Liberty at 113 Union Street in South Lismore and the Caltex on Leicester Street, Lismore, 194.9 at the United on Johnston Street in Casino, and 187.5 at the Metro on River Street in Ballina.Diesel is 184.9 at the Astron on Ballina Road and the Valtex at 2 Leycester Street, 183.9 at the United and the NightOwl Puma on Johnston Street in Casino, and 184.5 at the Mobil and Metro on River Street in Ballina.Have a great weekend!Now, have a laugh with the Friday Funnies.....

UPDATE: Cars cleared and traffic flowingLive Traffic is reporting another car crash on Ballina Road, this time near William Blair Avenue.Westbound traffic is affected, so expect delays or take an alternative route into Lismore.Transport for NSW says that emergency vehicles are in attendance.

With the potential for minor flooding for Lismore and parts of the Northern Rivers, you are reminded not to drive through floodwaters, as roads become submerged.This was emphasised by a number of flood rescues in the upper catchment, north of Kyogle, this morning.The Kyogle SES reported that their Flood Rescue members were called into action to assist after a vehicle was swept into floodwaters at Collins Creek, about 17km north of Kyogle. The occupant was able to self-extricate and cling to trees in the middle of the creek.SES crews conducted a successful boat rescue, and the person was treated for exposure and shock.The SES reminds you that floodwater is unpredictable, fast-moving and far more powerful than it appears. It only takes a small amount of moving water to carry away a vehicle."Our crews remain ready to respond and support our partner agencies whenever required — but the safest rescue is the one that never has to happen."Lismore City Council has closed Tuntable Creek Road, at Rose Road and Gungas Road at Black Sheep Crossing.Council will also be closing the flood gates at Hensley Carpark and the Rowing Club Carpark from 5pm today. No cars should be left in these carparks over the weekend.

Although only 19mm has fallen at the Lismore airport and 29mm at Dawson Street since 6pm yesterday evening, significant rainfall in the catchments and further rainfall have forced the NSW SES to advise people in low-lying areas north of Lismore in the Wilsons catchment to STAY INFORMED about possible minor flooding on the Wilsons River.The advice is also for Nimbin, The Channon, Dunoon, Goolmanagar and Cowongla and surrounds.Terania Creek recorded 132mm in the last 24 hours, Doon Doon 241mm, Nimbin 87mm, Goonengerry 78mm, and Jiggi 73mm.The Wilsons River gauge at Lismore is 0.52m and rising. The minor flood level is 4.2m.The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) advise that severe weather may continue to cause flash flooding across the region. This rainfall is forecast to continue into the weekend with intense falls possible throughout Friday.The BoM is forecasting further rain for the rest of Friday, 7-35mm tomorrow and 15-70mm on Sunday.Lismore City Council has closed Tuntable Creek Road at Rose Road.Significant rainfall has made an existing landslip unstable. Council will advise when the road re-opens.Gungas Road at Black Sheep Crossing is also closed to through traffic, as there is water over the road.Based on predictions from the BoM, the following areas may be impacted by dangerous floodwaters:Low-lying roads, causeways and bridgesLow-lying farming and rural areasLow-lying areas along the riverbanksCamping grounds along riverbanks and creeksUnsealed roads may be impactedWhat you need to do:If you have a Home or Business Emergency Plan, follow it. Otherwise, have a conversation and plan for what you will do and take with you if you need to evacuate.Consider the consequences of road and bridge closures and water over roads and make alternate arrangements for work, children, and travel.Obey all signs about road closures and instructions from emergency services.Never drive, walk, ride through, play or swim in floodwater-it is dangerous, toxic, and may void your car insurance. Ifit's flooded, forget it. Fines may apply.Avoid storm drains and pipes, ditches, ravines, creeks, and rivers.People in areas likely to be impacted by flooding should raise their assets, including waste and chemicalcontainers above expected flood heights.Share this information with family, friends, and neighbours and help others prepare where possible.People working or camping along the river should monitor river heights and be prepared to relocate to higherground.Farmers should consider moving pumps and farm equipment to higher ground.For emergency assistance during a flood, storm or tsunami, call the NSW SES on 132 500. In a life-threatening emergency, call Triple Zero (000).

Work has commenced on the first of five essential bridge upgrades across the Lismore local government area. The project replaces low‑lying concrete causeways with new small bridge structures, improving stormwater flow and boosting road reliability during periods of high rainfall. These upgrades are expected to reduce road closures and travel delays when existing culverts become impassable. Lismore City Council said the projects are jointly funded by the Australian and NSW governments. Construction firm Fulton Hogan has been appointed to deliver the work on Council’s behalf. Completion is anticipated in July this year, weather permitting.  Alongside improving safety and access for residents, road users and emergency services, the upgraded bridges will also deliver important environmental outcomes.  “It's not just road users who will benefit,” says Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg.  “These works will also help improve creek health by making it easier for fish to move and waterways to function naturally. It’s a win for the environment as well as the community.” The culverts scheduled for replacement are located at Leeson Road, Whian Whian (in progress); Cross Road, Numulgi; Davis Road, Jiggi; and two locations on Tuntable Creek Road, Tuntable Creek.  Council will continue to work closely with Fulton Hogan to minimise construction impacts. Further information, including timing and access arrangements, will be provided to affected residents and road users ahead of each stage of works. Keep up to date with major projects via Lismore City Council’s Online Project Schedule and Map: https://caportal.com.au/lismore-city-council/project-pipeline.  

Benjamin Franklin once wrote, "In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes". We look at funeral homes as a business; however, finding the right company with the right staff to help you through an extremely emotional and traumatic time in your life can be difficult.In an industry dominated by national brands, one Lismore family transitioned from a building company founded in 1978 to manufacturing coffins around 1994 and has operated as a funeral home since 2016. This month, they celebrate 10 years of serving the community.Warwick Binney was part of the family building business, but when his father retired in 2015, he wanted to start Binney Family Funerals and take a new direction in a field he knew well."I guess, being involved with the funeral industry through the coffin manufacturing and the involvement with New South Wales Funeral Directors Association, Queensland Funeral Directors Association, Australian Funeral Directors Association, National Funeral Directors Association, etc, as an industry member, we were at all their meetings in support of selling our products."They used to have big trade conventions, and we'd be able to take product and display it to funeral directors across the different states, etc. Being on the road, an interest grew within me about the industry."That interest led to Warwick casually working for funeral homes out-of-the-area when the owners went away for a weekend."I'd started training for this prior to the closure, and then took a 12-month period in the establishment of locations, development applications and everything, to then open Binney Family Funerals. I did my first funeral on the 4th of February in 2016," Warwick shared with the Lismore App.(Binney Family Funerals on Magellan Street)As you would expect, being a funeral director is not your ordinary 9-to-5 job. It takes a special kind of person who is committed to the funeral industry."It's not a career choice. It's a life choice," Warwick explained. "It's something that you're there 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Even on Christmas day, someone else's family in need draws you away from your own family. Obviously, your own family's got to be understanding through those times. It really is a calling."When Warwick opened Binney Family Funerals on Magellan Street, most of the existing companies were national, though some private owners operated multiple funeral homes in certain locations. To that end, Warwick is the only "locally owned and operated funeral home in Lismore."This gave Warwick a point of difference in the Lismore and Northern Rivers funeral market."Lismore is just a big country town. People still want that personal attention from a person they have a connection with, and not like a number in a delicatessen sort of thing."Across any industry, there will be some changes in operations, and the funeral industry is no different. They are just quite subtle changes.In the 1930's, nearly all funeral services were held in a church and were religious-based with the same hymns and procedures. Now, they are more personalised."Today we're probably more experience-based," Warwick explained. "If you don't take something from an experience, it was pointless doing it. So each funeral service has really got to be tailored to the individual person and family, not just what the textbook says. It is encouraging the family to talk and share, and it is the start of a journey towards a new life without that person's presence, and starting to look through photo albums, and talk about experiences that you shared."It assists you on that journey. If it's mechanical, it was pointless."Live streaming of funerals came into vogue about 15 years ago and then saw a resurgence during COVID-19, when lockdowns and restrictions forced nearly all funerals to include it. Five years later, the number of families using live streaming has dropped, but not to pre-COVID numbers.In terms of what Warwick has learnt in the last 10 years, taking the time to stop and listen is at the top of the list."I think one thing that I've always been conscious of and learnt from an early stage in training is always stop and listen when the family are doing the eulogy. Because if something does turn left when it should have turned right, and something occurs, and you've got to pick up a service, that knowledge that you've picked up can help you in finishing off a service where it may be necessary."I think people underestimate when they're talking to their family about their funeral. They say, I don't want a eulogy, I don't want anything fancy. It doesn't have to be fancy, but your family need that journey. And I think what we can learn in a generational situation from something like great-grandfather was when he died, and what he achieved, that come out of those times, is just sometimes phenomenal."He was a person that you walked past in the street. He said, Hello, Warwick. You said, Hello, John. He was a businessman in town, or what have you. But to find out that person's journey through life and what they achieve. We've got some outstanding people in our community that we just don't realise until that time."When we asked Warwick about the low point since he began as a funeral director, the lack of respect for a funeral cortege."The lack of respect and impatience of vehicles on the road when someone is travelling on their last journey. It's just really frustrating, the disrespect sometimes of people that will cut off the family car immediately behind a hearse and things like that. When the Road Traffic Act says a funeral cortege of two or more cars has right of way on the road. That lack of understanding in the greater community, particularly in young drivers, is just sad.As Warwick mentioned, being a funeral director is a lifestyle, not a career, and Warwick and the team at Binney's embrace that choice."Starting here 10 years ago, it was just myself, mum and dad, with the assistance of my three sons at varying stages. We have grown to where we are employing staff and having Liz van Eck and Tony Maluta start with us, both from local families and the support network that they've offered us as well."I now have a niece and her partner that are involved as well, and while we're not all blood family, here we are the Binney Family Funerals family, and the support from everyone involved here has been great over the years."Through the respect and growth that we've got from families, repeat families that we've cared for has just been outstanding, and there obviously was a need for a local funeral director in our community and and I'm just proud that we've been able to serve those families and provide them with a journey that's helped them to find solace in their their new life without their loved one."