The NSW Government is providing Byron Shire Council $300,000 through the Resilient Lands Program to provide safe, flood resilient land for new housing at the Saddle Road Precinct in Brunswick Heads.The funding from the NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA) will allow Council to complete a Structure Plan, Infrastructure Priority Plan, technical studies, and community engagement to investigate suitability for new housing and public infrastructure in the precinct. Located on the western side of the Pacific Motorway, the site is just five minutes by car to Brunswick Heads and eight to Mullumbimby. It is well above projected flood heights, which will provide opportunities for new homes off the flood plain. Saddle Road is the third site to be identified under the RA’s Resilient Lands Program (RLP). The site is also the first to be identified outside of the Lismore LGA under the program, and has also been flagged in Byron Shire Council’s Residential Strategy as a key site for future residential development.It follows the recent announcement of 400 new lots in East Lismore and up to 50 new households in the Mount Pleasant Estate at Goonellabah.While the final number of homes at Saddle Road will be determined following detailed planning and community engagement, based on site-specifications, it is estimated between 500-800 homes could be delivered.The RLP is accelerating the delivery of new land and housing options, linking with the $700 million Resilient Homes Program (RHP), giving flood impacted homeowners a pathway to move to a safer location.The RA will work with RHP buyback participants to secure suitable and affordable land and will provide further support to those eligible who wish to relocate their existing homes.For more information, visit NSW Reconstruction Authority.Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said, “This funding is a win-win for the community and Byron Shire Council.“Not only will it help to unlock flood-resilient lots for people to build on, it also helps Council and the NSW Government deliver on its promise of more homes for our growing population.“The land is positioned near existing services and an established community and will provide a beautiful, safe place to live for those affected by the nearby flood plain.”  Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery Janelle Saffin said, “The announcement of this third site under the Resilient Lands Program is the first one outside of Lismore.“Locals communities and Councils can be assured that the wheels of the RLP are starting to turn right across the Northern Rivers.“This announcement will be followed by others in our local government areas, and will see more land become available, giving people accepting buybacks in the Resilient Homes Program a variety of places to choose from.” Byron Shire Council Mayor Michael Lyon said, “We are thrilled to receive this initial funding support which will not only benefit members of our community displaced by the natural disasters in 2022, but also address the housing crisis that has existed since before the floods. “Council can now get on with the important job of structure planning for this site on The Saddle Road and get the land ready for building flood-resilient houses more quickly which is a huge win. “The work ahead includes an Aboriginal Heritage and Environmental Sensitivity Assessment, a Structure Plan that includes a vision and concept plan for the site, a Planning Proposal to amend Council’s LEP and an Infrastructure Priority Plan that addresses the infrastructure required to support a new community such as roads, sewer and water.“As these works are progressed, we look forward to working with our community to achieve the best outcomes.”

CONTENT WARNING: This media release contains information some readers may find distressing as it refers to data on maternal and perinatal deaths.New data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) explores outcomes of mothers and their babies during the early years of the COVID-19 pandemic.Maternal and perinatal outcomes during the 2020 and 2021 COVID-19 pandemic includes information on demographics, uptake of antenatal care, labour and birth trends, and baby outcomes based on the data from the National Perinatal Data Collection. Outcomes during the first two years of the COVID-19 pandemic in Australia (2020 and 2021 combined) were compared with what would have been expected based on trends in the years prior to the pandemic (2015 to 2019).In 2020 and 2021 combined, there were:2,390 fewer babies born at a low birthweight 4,260 fewer babies requiring specialised care in a special care nursery or neonatal intensive care unit1,050 more women who birthed at home 2,330 fewer babies born pre-term 15,380 more women who birthed without labour being induced.The first two years of the pandemic were, however, also associated with:4,670 fewer first-time mothers attending the recommended 10 or more antenatal visits880 more women experiencing high blood pressure during pregnancy. ‘In terms of the characteristics and risk factors of birthing mothers (such as age and weight), there didn’t appear to be a change in these years. There was also no clear change in the stillbirth rate, which fluctuated between 6.7 and 7.7 per 1,000 births during the period of 2015 to 2021 and data from the National Maternal Mortality Data Collection suggest that there were no maternal deaths directly related to COVID-19 infection in 2020 or 2021,’ said AIHW spokesperson Deanna Eldridge.A trend towards shorter postnatal stays continued during 2020 and 2021; but at a greater than expected rate, with 21,840 more mothers and 19,890 babies staying in hospital for one day or less following a hospital birth.Other research found that in the early stages of the pandemic pregnant women experienced high levels of distress, which negatively impacted the mental health of mothers and led to pregnant women experiencing heightened depression, anxiety and stress. This, as well as COVID-19 infections and vaccination rates among pregnant women, is an area for future research using data linkage. It is important to note that this report describes the changes observed between pre-pandemic and pandemic years but is not able to determine the cause of these changes, for example, COVID-19 infection, other pandemic-related factors such as individual and societal responses to the pandemic, public health measures, or other factors (events or initiatives) unrelated to the COVID-19 pandemic. See Limitations for more information.If you or someone you know needs support, contact:Red Nose miscarriage, stillbirth and newborn death support- external site opens in new window: 1300 308 307Lifeline- external site opens in new window: 13 11 14Griefline- external site opens in new window: 1300 845 745Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia (PANDA)- external site opens in new window: 1300 726 306

You would not be wrong if you thought it had rained more than usual over the last few months. Unfortunately, the Bureau of Meteorology (The Bureau) says we have a bit more pain to come before we hit more typical winter weather patterns with more sunny days.It is a combination of the amount of rainy days and above-average rainfall in April that has people complaining.According to The Bureau's statistics, the mean number of rainy days for rain (that is greater than 1mm) in March is 13.4, for March 2024, it was 19 days with only 4 zeros recorded. For April, the mean is 9.9 rainy days; this year, we recorded 11 rainy days, and for May, the early numbers are not encouraging, with 5 days out of 7 recording over 1mm of rainfall with a mean of 6.In terms of rainfall, January (142.8mm), February (115.8mm) and March (181.8mm) recorded the median rainfall (slightly down in February). However, April was 80mm more and May has nearly reached the 66mm median number in 7 days, recording 53mm.So, it is no wonder our golf courses, sporting fields and bush walks are so wet underfoot.Dean Marramore, a senior meteorologist with The Bureau said the current system is an unusual weather pattern for Lismore and the Northern Rivers."At the moment, we've got to zoom right out of it to see what's affecting us in the Northern Rivers. It's thanks, essentially, to this very large, almost stationary high-pressure system south of Tasmania. It's been there for a couple of weeks and looking to be there for at least another week."(The high-pressure system sitting over Tasmania. This is the forecast for Thursday at 10am)"Why that's important for us here in the Northern Rivers is that the winds go anti-clockwise around that high-pressure system. So, we're just getting this prolonged period of east to southeasterly winds, which is continuing to push in the moisture with these daily hit-and-miss showers and sometimes hitting brief areas of rain as well.""With the high sitting there for another week, that means it's pretty much this cooler but moist and almost humid for this time of year, not humid compared to summer but humid for this time of year, pattern continuing with the daily hit-and-miss showers and sometimes focusing into rain occasionally.""It's not a big widespread heavy soak but just a constant 10 to 20 millimetres if you're under a few showers, some days less, some days more. But, of course, as you know, over a week, that can add up to almost 100 millimetres in some areas, and that's what we're expecting this week as well.""Those 100-millimetre falls will be more isolated rather than widespread. It's just where you kind of get lots of showers over the next week.(The weather radar at 6:40pm last night showing the east to southeast winds pushing into the Northern Rivers)The good news is that this weather pattern will start breaking down next week."We'll get some cold fronts that will move through the South and that will kind of flip the winds to westerlies because, as you know, when the winds come off from the west and down the hills, we get much drier weather. That looks to hopefully, at this stage, come to us around early to mid, probably more mid next week, and that high will finally disappear or bugger off," Dean laughs.This will certainly be welcomed by everyone, but what about the typical winter weather pattern, when will we start to experience our dry months?"I think that's what we're all kind of waiting for on the East Coast. So, the showers and normally these highs, these large highs, kind of move through over a five to seven-day period. You know, Perth, and then Tassie and then on to New Zealand, but this high at the moment, it's just pretty much being stuck south of Tassie. But, once those cold fronts return, that is a more normal winter pattern. And when we do have that, it means showers and cold to the south, but up here in the northern rivers, it means much drier conditions, sunshine returning that will allow us to dry out."We are not quite at the drying conditions stage, but as Dean said, there is a light at the end of our wet tunnel.

The NSW Government is today announcing a package of commonsense reforms to target possession of knives, particularly among young people, reduce knife crime and boost community safety. The Government will: Develop legislation modelled on Queensland’s Jack’s Law which will give Police powers to “wand” or “scan” people for knives without a warrant in designated areas, including transport hubs, shopping centres and other crowded places.These powers will be made available in circumstances where a relevant weapons offence/knife crime has occurred within the past six months;An authority can then be issued by Police, enabling them to “wand” or “scan” people; andThe authority will last for 12 hours, with an option to extend as required.Make it illegal to sell knives to a child under the age of 18, with provisions for exemptions for retailers selling to young people who need a knife for their work or study.Increase penalties for people selling knives to young people under the age of 18. The package of reforms will help address knife-related crime, get knives off streets and keep the community safer. The new “wanding” laws will be based on Jack’s Law and adapted for the NSW context with details being finalised ahead of legislation to be introduced to Parliament. Their aim will be to keep the community safe, targeting areas where there have been increasing issues related to knife crime or knife possession offences, which could be on public transport, nightlife, entertainment, or shopping precincts. The reforms build upon responsible action taken by the NSW Government including: Doubling of the maximum penalties for various knife related offences in 2023.The review by the NSW Sentencing Council into of sentencing for firearms, knives, and other weapons offences.Ongoing high impact NSW Police operations such as “Operation Foil” – an ongoing, targeted operation which last ran from 11–13 April 2024. It targets knife crime and anti-social behaviour with 51 knives/weapons seized and 145 people charged with weapon-related offences. In the last year alone almost 4,000 knives were seized in public places. The reforms send a strong message about the seriousness of knife related violence and the NSW Government’s commitment to take immediate proactive steps to prevent future tragedies, while also addressing longer term challenges such as serious mental health issues and the broader incidence of violent crime. Premier Chris Minns said, “In recent weeks and months, we have all borne witness to the devastating outcomes of knife related violence. “I know that many in our community have followed the devastating media coverage and heard the stories of victims and families – tragically there have been so many recent examples. “Our communities are still in mourning, but it’s essential that we step up to take immediate action to send a clear message that NSW will simply not accept these kinds of crimes. “Today we are announcing reform including legislation modelled on new powers for Police to search and detect knives in public spaces, based on Queensland’s Jack’s Law, and a commonsense increase to the age limit for purchasing knives from 16 to 18 to make it harder for children to get access to these deadly weapons.” Minister for the Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said, “This sends a strong signal that we are committed to tackling violent knife crime in our community. “These reforms send a strong warning to would-be perpetrators. “I want to thank Mr and Mrs Beasley and our colleagues in the Queensland Government for working with us to share their experiences and their knowledge in regard to Jack’s Law. “No parent should go through what the Beasleys and many other families have gone through. No life should be cut short by violent crime. “We’ll be looking at how these strategies work in a NSW context. Strategies that we know are making a difference in Queensland. “These reforms will give police improved tools to quickly detect concealed knives and take action before a potential perpetrator has the chance to use them. “These reforms are about keeping people safe. I want the community to have the confidence that this government is committed to giving the NSW Police Force all the tools required to combat violent crime.” Attorney General Michael Daley said, “These changes increase police powers, toughen penalties and send a clear signal that it is not okay to carry a knife. “There are too many young people who think it is okay to put a knife into their pocket to carry out their daily business. The worrying thing is that, if they are open to carrying it, then they are probably open to using it. We want people to stop carrying knives, to leave them at home and to stop using them.”

The Albanese Labor Government will invest a record $519.1 million in Future Drought Fund programs to help farmers and regional communities prepare for the next drought and build climate resilience.   Labor has restructured the Fund and its objectives to get better results for farming families and communities and will provide record funding for it in next week’s Budget. Farmers are on the frontline of climate change and the Albanese Government said they have listened to what they need. This Fund will provide:Better tools for farmers to help mitigate the impact of drought on their farms.Strategies for local communities to prepare for and manage risks through drought.Increased investment in the existing network of drought hubs. The programs will start to become available from 1 July 2024. Communities can find out more by reaching out to the Department of Agriculture online or by phone. Today’s announcement is in response to the recent Productivity Commission review, last year’s National Drought Forum, and extensive consultation with stakeholders. Improving the sustainability of the agricultural sector is a key priority for the sector and the Albanese Government has said the investment today responds to the increasing risk climate change is posing to rural and regional communities. Examples of programs included in the Fund:$235 million to extend the Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hubs, the Future Drought Fund Communities program and the next phase of the Regional Drought Resilience Planning Program.$137.4 million to extend and improve the existing Farm Business Resilience and Climate Services for Agriculture programs, and the new Scaling Success Program. The Farm Business Resilience program has already helped thousands of farmers with business planning, coaching, and financial literacy training.$120.3 million for programs that trial innovative solutions to build long-term resilience to drought and climate risks.Expansion of the Long Term Trials Program, roll out of the revised Resilient Landscapes Program, and implementation of a new Innovation Challenges Pilot to drive the uptake of evidence-based, innovative practices, approaches and technologies. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said, “It’s vital that we support Australian farmers and producers to be prepared for more severe weather impacts. “That is why we’re investing hundreds of millions more in the agricultural sector and regional communities to plan and prepare for drought through the Future Drought Fund. “By doing the work now our rural and regional communities are not just reacting to events as they unfold, but will have considered plans to make them more resilient to climate change.” Agriculture Minister Murray Watt said, “Every morning when farmers around the country wake up, put their boots on and go to work, they are one day closer to the next drought. “We are already seeing very dry conditions in Western Australia and some parts of Tasmania. “Time is of the essence when it comes to planning for drought, that’s why we’re investing heavily now in a new and improved Future Drought Fund. “We’re helping farmers across the country develop business plans to manage diversification in a changing climate, we’re helping regional communities manage drought and other climate risks, and helping individuals get leadership training and mentoring. “I’ve seen firsthand the great work under the FDF, like trialling new, drought-resistant livestock feed and connecting farmers with the latest scientific advice on reducing drought impacts. “Our commitment of nearly $520 million from the FDF supports farmers and farming communities to take steps ahead of time. “This not only empowers farmers and communities but makes them more self-reliant when drought hits.”

People across Lismore and the Northern Rivers are encouraged to celebrate and recognise midwives for their contribution to the NSW health system this International Day of the Midwife. Health Minister Ryan Park said midwives are highly valued for their incredible work supporting women, their babies and families at such an important time in their lives. “I thank every midwife across the NSW Health system for their ongoing commitment to providing safe and high-quality midwifery care to keep mothers and babies healthy across the state,” Mr Park said. “The dedication, skill and compassionate care midwives provide to all women and their families is remarkable, with midwives supporting the birth of almost 100,000 babies in NSW each year. NSW Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer Jacqui Cross said midwives play a vital role in helping to deliver safe, effective and collaborative maternity care in the state’s public maternity services.  “I’m very proud of the exceptional work of midwives in our services, making a difference in the lives of women, babies and their families every day,” Ms Cross said. “Our midwives are passionate about providing woman-centred care to ensure women feel empowered to make decisions about their maternity care that meets their unique needs and achieves their desired health outcomes.” “Every year, we recognise the achievements of our nurses and midwives in the NSW health system through the Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards, so I encourage people to nominate an outstanding nurse or midwife when applications open tomorrow.” In 2024, there will be a total of nine awards, including seven local health district and specialty network nominated awards, one consumer-nominated Healing Heart award and one colleague-nominated Healing Heart award. Nominations for the 2024 Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards close on Friday, 14 June 2024. For more information visit the NSW Health website.

This Friday, May 10 is Do It For Dolly Day, a national day dedicated to bringing the community together by spreading kindness, raising awareness and vital funds, and going blue to end bullying.Dolly Everett was only 14 years old when she tragically took her life in January 2018, following relentless and sustained bullying and cyberbullying. Sadly, six years later the problem is not going away.   A recent report from the eSafety Commissioner has shed light on a troubling trend: cyberbullying is on the rise. According to the report, there has been a staggering 40% increase in cyberbullying reports, with eSafety receiving 2,383 reports in 2023 compared to 1,700 in 2022.  What is particularly worrying is that two-thirds (67%) of these reports were concerning children aged 12-15 years old – just like Dolly- highlighting the vulnerability of young people to online harassment and abuse.   Determined that no other family would suffer from the same devastation, Dolly’s parents Tick and Kate Everett established the anti-bullying organisation Dolly’s Dream. They have committed to changing the culture of bullying by addressing the impact of bullying, anxiety, depression, and youth suicide, through awareness, education and direct support to young people and families.   Dolly’s Dream supports Australian families by providing crucial services such as their free 24-hour support line, anti-bullying and online safety workshops in schools, mental health first aid training in communities and more recently (in partnership with Telethon Kids Institute) the free Beacon cyber safety app - a trustworthy resource for parents and carers to help them confidently navigate their family’s technology use and reduce associated harms.   “Since starting Dolly’s Dream, having an app in our program offering to further support parents and carers in navigating the online world is something we have been incredibly passionate about,” said Kate Everett.  “We don’t want other families to ever have to go through the heartache we have experienced. We are proud that Beacon provides easily accessible support and information to families, especially in our rural, regional, and remote communities, that we wish we had,” Kate added.  Every dollar raised helps Dolly's Dream in their mission to empower and educate the community to address and prevent bullying and cyber bullying, making a positive impact to the lives of Australian families and their communities.   Each year in May, we see thousands of wonderful communities come together to remember Dolly by going blue (Dolly’s favourite colour), donating and participating in fundraising activities to help support the important anti-bullying work of Dolly’s Dream, sharing the message to be kind and speak even if your voice shakes.  Join us on May 10 for Do It For Dolly Day and Go Blue to End Bullying. To register, donate or find out more please visit www.doitfordollyday.org.au   

"It’s coming along all right. I can confidently say it is going to be late September." Those were the words from Stephen Bortolin, General Manager of the Lismore Workers Club, that will excite Lismore residents.Pre-flood the Workers Club had over 11,500 members. As Stephen said, it would have been two and a half years since the February 28 2022 big flood ripped out the heart of the club, leaving it with a massive estimated $11 million rebuild. With spiralling construction costs, you can be sure the final figure will be well north of that mark."Don’t tell me it has gone quickly," Stephen laughs, "It has been a long road. It was something I definitely didn’t want to go through.""We've had a few little things delay us like materials, part of the decor, tradies, electrical stuff that we didn’t know of. We have to reinstate the back kitchens. We are not going to renovate those, they will stay as they are. To replace them would be another $3 million, so it's about getting the equipment fired up.There will be a precursor to the actual late September grand opening, and that is the unveiling of the new look modern exterior.Stephen said there would be no big fanfare on the day. When the scaffolding comes down, it will reveal a facade that closely resembles the above artist's impression."We wanted to keep it pretty close to the plan. We have some signage to put up and some glazing to be completed then the scaffolding can come down. We are probably looking at about six weeks for that to happen."The entrance to the Lismore Workers Club on the ground floor is not going to house anything valuable due to the threat of floods but it will be impressive."It will look magnificent. It is very different. We got rid of the atrium, which was good in its day but it was not very practical because every time it rained it leaked,"Now the word is out, bookings are flowing in for October from the corporate sector, private functions and school formals."We are pretty much booked out from October right through until the end of the year, and going into early next year, we have bookings too. Plus we have entertainment back from November."The first of which is the Boney M Experience, which is slated for Saturday, November 9 followed by Marina Prior and Michael Cormick Centrestage on the 16th of November.2024 is set to be the year for building openings as Mary G's $700,000 external makeover and beer garden should be completed towards the end of the year, making the Lismore CBD facades more pleasing to the eye.

Farmers have welcomed Telstra’s decision to delay its 3G network switch-off until August 31 this year, as thousands of rural Australians remain reliant on 3G services. NSW Farmers Rural Affairs Committee Chair Deb Charlton said the announcement made by Telstra today had come as a relief to many in rural parts of the state, who faced the prospect of being disconnected come June 30. “With many farmers often working alone and a long way from help, switching off the 3G network without proper community engagement and support would spell disaster for many in the bush,” Mrs Charlton said. “A huge range of farm machinery, as well as mobile phones, could also stop functioning if not upgraded in time for the network shutdown – leaving farmers without the tools they need to grow food and bringing agricultural operations to a grinding halt.”With a range of machinery, devices and landlines potentially affected, Mrs Charlton urged all telecommunications providers to engage communities on the network switchoff to ensure a smooth and safe transition in August this year. “We welcome Telstra’s efforts to engage and educate the community around the network shutdown, but this needs to be ramped up, and now, to ensure we can transition over safely to the 4G and 5G networks later this year,” Mrs Charlton said. “Suppliers of farm machinery applications using remote sensing or telemetry technology – including tractors, water monitors and more – also have a role to play in supporting farmers in the transition, so they can ensure their technology can continue to function as it needs to into the future.“Connectivity is a critical tool, and so we can’t spare any time or expense when it comes to keeping our rural and regional communities connected and safe moving forward.”

The NSW Government will provide $230 million over four years as part of an emergency package to enhance support for domestic, family and sexual violence (DFSV) victim-survivors and expand programs that reduce the rate of violence against women and children. Nearly 1 in 4 women and 1 in 8 men in Australia have experienced violence by an intimate partner or family member since the age of 15.   The NSW Labor Government is taking urgent action to address the unacceptable rate of violence against women and children, including implementation of NSW’s first dedicated Primary Prevention Strategy – a new step in NSW’s approach to preventing DFSV.  The Government will also undertake further long-term reform to prevent domestic, sexual and family violence in NSW. This work will be informed by the lived experience of victim-survivors and expert advice to government, including from leaders in the domestic family and sexual violence sector who engaged directly with the NSW Cabinet last week. The package includes: Crisis Response $48m to roll out the Staying Home Leaving Violence (SHLV) program state-wide and to expand the Integrated Domestic and Family Violence Service (IDFVS).The Staying Home Leaving Violence program helps women and their children to remain safe in their homes after leaving a violent relationship. In 2022, a formal evaluation from the Gendered Violence Research Network at the University of NSW found this program effectively contributes to the long-term safety and housing stability of women and children who have left a violent and abusive relationship.The Integrated Domestic and Family Violence Service provides important case management helping people to navigate the services of government agencies and non-government organisations. This can include coordinating across police, courts, healthcare, child protection workers, housing providers and women’s refuges. The program works with both victim-survivors who have left a relationship and those who remain, focusing on maximising safety for this group of women and their children. Improving the Justice System for Victims $45 million has been set aside to improve bail laws and justice system responses to domestic violence with measures to be announced in coming weeks. Nearly $24 million for specialist DV support workers within the justice system.$2 million over four years to support the Domestic Violence Death Review Team and its work to deliver robust research around risks factors, trends and impact of service delivery.$2.1 million over two years to improve and continue the Corrective Services program EQUIPS Domestic and Family Violence, delivered to offenders in custody and under supervision in the community to prevent reoffending. Early Intervention $48 million to secure and increase funding for workers who support children accompanying their mothers to refuges. These specialist workers support them, including with education and mental health measures.Support of $700,000 for the NSW Domestic Violence Line (DV line). Primary Prevention $38 million for the implementation of NSW’s first dedicated Primary Prevention Strategy. The Pathways to Prevention: NSW Strategy for the Prevention of Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence 2024-2027 will develop a range of initiatives to address the drivers of domestic, family and sexual violence.$8.1 million over four years for the ‘All in’ early childhood pilot, to prevent domestic violence by teaching young children about healthy relationships. Strengthening the Sector $5 million for workforce training on the implementation of a newly developed risk assessment framework, and quality standards.$3.6 million to expand Domestic Violence NSW (DVNSW), which is the peak body for specialist services in New South Wales. Research $5m in funding for research into perpetrators and effective interventions. This package supports NSW’s commitments, alongside the Prime Minister and First Ministers across the country, at National Cabinet last week. First Ministers committed to sustained focus on stopping the homicides and achieving our shared goal of ending violence against women and children in a generation. If you or someone you know is affected by domestic, family or sexual violence, please call the toll-free number 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for support on 1800RESPECT or visit 1800respect.org.au.  Premier Chris Minns said, “Too many lives have been lost and too many families have been broken because of domestic and family violence. It is a blight in our communities, and it is a problem that deserves our government’s concerted attention and response. “We are listening to leaders, organisations, victim-survivors, and communities from across NSW to drive solutions. Domestic, family, and sexual violence is preventable; we cannot accept the status quo. “This funding announcement is an important step to doing better, to recognising that domestic violence supports need to be applied not just from a crisis response perspective, but with an eye to disrupting the cycle of domestic and family violence early and permanently.  Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Jodie Harrison said, “Our government is committed to seeing dramatic improvements in the rates of domestic, family, and sexual violence through a preventative approach, as outlined in NSW’s first dedicated whole-of-government domestic, family and sexual violence Pathways to Prevention strategy. “There is no shying away from the horrendous statistics, and the tragic stories behind each one of those statistics. “What we need to focus on, and what we are committed to achieving, is appropriate, ongoing, and all-encompassing wraparound support for victim-survivors, as well as ensuring we learn from their experiences and do better for communities across NSW.” Attorney General Michael Daley said, “In the coming weeks we will confirm and announce the details of $45 million to improve bail laws and justice system responses, ensuring we are reviewing domestic violence supports and systems from every angle. “NSW needs a coordinated approach across multiple fronts to disrupt domestic violence – that is what this suite of funding initiatives is designed to achieve.” Minister for Corrections Anoulack Chanthivong said, “This is important funding to expand and improve programs that stop cycles of violence, including by reducing reoffending. “There isn’t any excuse for family and domestic violence. We’re ensuring offenders can access the specialised programs they need to help change their behaviour.”

A 30-year-old Casino man has been arrested on outstanding domestic violence offences.About 2.40pm yesterday (Sunday, 5 May), Police received information that a male currently wanted by Police for outstanding Domestic Violence Offences was at an address in North Casino.On attendance of Police at the address the male has successfully eluded Police by fleeing through the rear of the property and jumping several fences. A Police dog unit attended the location, and a track was commenced.The Police dog successfully tracked the suspect to a nearby residence where the male was in the ceiling attempting to hide himself under the ceiling insulation. Negotiations to have the male voluntarily come out of the hiding place and surrender were not successful, and to effect the arrest safely Police had to utilise Officers from the Police rescue squad.The male, upon removal from the house ceiling, was taken to Lismore Police Station and charged with the outstanding Domestic Violence matters as well as Assault Police and Resist Police x 4. The male was refused bail to appear before the Local Court today (6 May 2024).

If you are looking for a short-term part-time job, the upcoming local council elections may be the place to look.A state-wide recruitment drive is underway to support delivery of the 2024 NSW Local Government elections in September this year.Matthew Philips Acting Commissioner said there are thousands of opportunities for people across NSW to earn some extra money on election day – Saturday, 14 September. “We are recruiting right across NSW and no experience is needed, you just need to be enrolled to vote and available to work on election day.” “We will train you. You’ll join a huge team working on one of the biggest events to be held in this state. It’s a great day’s work in your local community and we have a lot of staff who return again and again.” “Expressions of interest can be submitted via our website – elections.nsw.gov.au.” Election staff perform a range of tasks on election day, including: providing information and assistance to votersmanaging the smooth running of polling placessorting and counting ballot papers. Mr Philips said the Electoral Commission was committed to creating a workforce that reflects the population of New South Wales. “If you speak a language in addition to English, if you are a person with disability or if you are a First Nations person, I strongly encourage you to apply.” “Even if you have no experience working at elections, this is a great opportunity to learn new skills and meet people, while you also play a valuable part in contributing to democracy,” he said. Interested applicants can find out more and submit an expression of interest now by visiting elections.nsw.gov.au  

The Lismore Jewel Centre, a beloved fixture in the community, has reopened its doors in the Starcourt Arcade under a new name: Jewellery Design Centre. To celebrate they are launching a heartwarming initiative to commemorate the history and cherished memories of Lismore and the old store.“Since reopening, we’ve had so many come and tell us how happy they are we’re back and share their fond memories of the old Jewel Centre” says owners Gary and Mariska Pinkerton.(The old Lismore Jewel Centre on Molesworth Street)“We love it, and so we want to invite more people to share their stories with us!”The ‘Tell Our Stories’ campaign invites locals to share their personal stories of connection, community and the special jewellery that has played an important role in their lives.“The stories have played a special role in our lives too,” says Mariska.“While we were closed after the flood, we did house calls and had customers come visit us at home which put a whole new light on the jewellery experience. All of a sudden the glitz was gone and our appointments were stripped back to just us and our customers. In this setting people naturally began to share their heart felt experiences with us, and we got to know them in a whole new way.”It was this experience, they explain, that inspired the new Jewellery Design Centre in Lismore’s Starcourt Arcade.“It’s smaller and not as ritzy as the old Jewel Centre was,” says Gary of the new store, “But for us it captures that feeling we felt when we would sit around dining tables with our customers.”Gary and Mariska are now inviting community members to visit the store and share their own memories and experiences, with the chance to win exciting prizes.Each person who shares their story online or in-store will be entered into a draw to win a $500 voucher, while those who have a piece repaired, remade, or custom-designed during the campaign period will have the opportunity to win a pair of $1,500 diamond earrings.“We especially want to hear stories about the rich history of Lismore, memories of the old Jewel Centre or touching moments where jewellery has played a special part in your life.”"More than the prizes, this is about celebrating the stories of the Northern Rivers and the memories that bind us together," says Mariska.Entries are open until May 24. For more information about the "Tell Our Stories" giveaway and how to participate, visit the Jewellery Design Centre in the Starcourt Arcade or read the featured competition post at the top of their Facebook Page here.

This week is National Road Safety Week, an annual initiative of the Safer Roads and Highways (SARAH) Group, which aims to highlight the impact of road trauma and ways to reduce it.The theme for 2024 is All Road Safety is Local – Drive So Others Survive.One of the safety elements of being on the road is seatbelts. On average, 15 per cent of deaths on NSW roads every year still involve seatbelt non-usage, with 36 people tragically losing their life last year.The NSW Government has announced that from July 1 wearing a seatbelt will be enforced by existing mobile phone detection cameras as the government bolsters efforts to counter the rising number of road fatalities across the state.The simple act of correctly wearing a seatbelt while in a moving vehicle has been a legal requirement in NSW for more than 50 years, but data shows 150 people died while not wearing one in the five years between 2019 and 2023.Photos released from testing of the cameras show a small but persistent percentage of drivers and some passengers continue to flout the law and wear their seatbelt incorrectly, including with the sash below the arm.Every dollar raised by seatbelt cameras will go back into road safety.As of midnight Thursday, 2 May 2024, 124 have been lost on NSW roads, which is 16 more than the same time last in 2023.The NSW Labor Government has introduced a number of measures to counter the rising number of road fatalities, including:The demerit point trial to encourage motorists who maintain a spotless record over 12 months to have a demerit point removed from their recordHosting the state’s first Road Safety Forum of international and local expertsLast month we signed the National Road Safety Data Sharing Agreement to help support analysis of driver behaviour, and help the various state and federal governments work together to understand where the funding needs to goRemoving a loophole to force all motorists driving on a foreign licence to convert to a NSW licence within six monthsDoubling roadside enforcement sites used for mobile speed cameras, with the addition of 2700 new locations where a camera can be deployed. Enforcement hours will remain the sameFor more information on National Road Safety Week visit: https://roadsafetyweek.com.au/Minister for Roads John Graham said, “Seatbelts save lives, it’s as simple as that. Wearing a seatbelt doubles a person’s chance of survival in a car crash and the NSW Government is doing everything we can to make sure the simplest safety feature in a car is being used by everyone.“It has been a legal requirement to wear a seatbelt in NSW since 1971 and it is frankly disturbing that a small minority of people are still not heeding the message. If camera enforcement can convince those people to buckle up we can reduce the 15 per cent of deaths that involve a belt not being worn.“Camera enforcement will be a significant step to reducing needless trauma on the roads that comes at the cost of families, loved ones and the first responders who routinely deal with unimaginable tragedy.“I am glad to announce the July 1 start date to seatbelt camera enforcement as we remember road trauma victims during National Road Safety Week.”Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said, "Despite five decades of enforcement and public awareness campaigns, on average more than 10,000 people a year are still fined by the NSW Police for not wearing a seatbelt. This has to change and we hope camera enforcement can be the catalyst.“In the last five years, about 85 per cent of the deaths and 76 per cent of the serious injuries that occurred in crashes where someone wasn’t wearing a seatbelt happened in country NSW. "Driving in the country brings with it different challenges to city driving - longer distances are often covered on higher speed roads and we know that although country residents make up about a third of the NSW population they sadly make up around two thirds of deaths on NSW roads.“The start of enforcement of seatbelt non-compliance by our mobile phone detection camera program will also reach regional roads – nobody is above the law and we want to see every single person wear a seatbelt and wear it correctly every single trip. We cannot overestimate how important wearing a seatbelt is to saving your life if the worst happens and you’re in a crash.“This National Road Safety Week I’m urging all regional road users to make safer choices.”

Today is the final story in our Flood Readiness - Are We Better Prepared series.We covered 12 chapters asking key organisations that play a vital role in pre-flood warnings and in the rescue & recovery after a major flood, about how the 2022 floods and Flood Inquiry has changed their disaster procedures and processes, so we know that we will be safer and the recovery quicker when the next unexpected severe weather event hits our city.Today is a summary of the series.***Everyone we spoke to was affected more profoundly by the floods of 2022 than any disaster they had seen before. From the impact it made on the emergency rescue effort while the water was high to assisting people and businesses when the water abated and in the recovery efforts that follow. Efficacy and abilities were sorely tested and weak points exposed - it wasn’t taken lightly.Today, in the final of the series, we will have a look at the findings of the Flood Inquiry and assess what we have been told by the respective organisations. All italicised quotes in this story are taken from Vol 1 of the Executive Summary in the Flood Inquiry Report.There were a couple of key themes that became apparent as the 1494 submissions to the Flood Inquiry were read;“Because so much of NSW is prone to natural disasters, there is a need for a renewed and strengthened emphasis on sustained disaster preparedness.” “... decision making in the face of uncertainty is another key theme of this report.”Preparation and agility is what we need when we look to those responsible for our ongoing safety and security.Critical Information“Planning for floods must incorporate new methods for understanding how future climate risks may influence rainfall extremes and flooding in high-risk catchments (which themselves are subject to constant change by way of new development or changing land uses), while explicitly reflecting 4 uncertainty. NSW must become a leader in applying new methods that reflect the rapid advances in climate change science, as they become available.”“To determine the cause of the extreme rainfall events and subsequent flooding, formal scientific process with hypotheses, experimentation, analyses and interpretation is required. This work requires investment in NSW’s and, more generally, Australia’s research capacity and is critical to improving our ability to imagine and predict what may happen in the future, and to enable effective mitigation and adaptation measures in response to changing climate risks.”“Messaging before and during a flood must draw on real-time rainfall and flood data and intelligence. Messaging must be clear and consistent across the whole of government to ensure that people understand risk in all its dimensions, including vulnerability, capacity, exposure and hazard characteristics, and to empower them to make better decisions in a disaster, particularly around early evacuation.”The Bureau of Meteorology“The Bureau provides riverine flood observations, forecasts and warnings to other organisations, such as state and territory governments, water and emergency management agencies, catchment authorities and local councils, who are accountable for interpreting the impacts of responses to that information.” A lot weighs on the success of weather forecasting, and The Bureau is at the forefront of ensuring Australia is forewarned. In NSW, the Bureau has staff embedded in the SES to provide and interpret that information.”Hazards Near Me App“The Lismore floods in 2022 and subsequent Inquiry were the catalysts to ensure an app similar to Fires Near Me NSW was developed to show flooding incidents across NSW.” The Hazards Near Me app was an important development to prepare people for dangerous conditions. “The decision was made to integrate flood information into Hazards Near Me as a ‘one-stop shop’ for hazards with significant community impact.”Australian Warning SystemThe Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience produced a set of icons to be used across Australia to simplify warnings “This platform includes the implementation of the Australian Warning System (AWS), which provides clearer and simpler messages for the community to be prepared and take action where required.”Dept of Transport“Transport for NSW (Transport) has made some important changes to the way information reaches a community during a time of emergency or disaster.” Most councils now utilise Live Traffic to monitor road issues, signage has been put in place, and the Australian Warning System iconography used for simplicity in understanding. They play a part in an emergency response, “Transport works closely with NSW State Emergency Service (SES) and NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) on coordinated planning, response and recovery operations.”Lismore City Council“The need for land developments to house a growing population has unintentionally yet perversely embedded a ‘rinse and repeat’ approach to floodplain planning – with too much already built, being built or planned to be built in areas exposed to flood risk. This tension between development and safety particularly affects those who cannot afford to live in suburbs out of the floodplain. As a result, the 2022 floods disproportionately affected the most vulnerable.”Lismore City Council has vastly improved its ability to provide the LGA with up-to-date, accurate information on the recovery and future weather events. The Disaster Dashboard user interface, Flood Alert SMS and Property Flood Mapping provide constituents with vital information to prepare for an emergency or when we face an emergency.However, there was no mention by Council about current use or ongoing use of the floodplain or flood-prone areas. LCC said, “Councils in NSW adhere to guidelines for developing local flood risk management plans,” however, despite their ability to zone land and approve DAs, they did not mention any changes to areas at risk.“There needs to be a reset in the way we consider and manage our floodplains. NSW’s floodplains must be recognised as an asset, rather than a nuisance that needs to be contained. With appropriate strategic land use planning, and a return of the floodplain to public ownership over time, we can unlock the value of floodplains whilst ensuring they are safely enjoyed to their full social, environmental, cultural and economic potential.”SES & RFS“The Government should look to establish permanent emergency management leadership and decision-making in the form of a permanent State Emergency Management Operations Coordinator (SEOCON) to assist in protecting life and building community confidence. This role is required to improve implementation of emergency management arrangements across the full suite of emergencies, including floods.”“There also needs to be a cultural shift in the way our first responders and combat agencies prepare for and respond to flood. Despite well-established and sound emergency management arrangements being in place across the state, the 2022 flood events exposed significant capability gaps within the agencies responsible to deliver under these arrangements. This was particularly evident with respect to the operational response, such as flood rescues. Frontline resourcing, capability, coordination and cohesion must be improved through enhanced training and by activating all available resources early – before a disaster escalates.”The effect of the Flood Inquiry on the SES has been critical to its ability to re-align itself with improved outcomes, “In June 2022, the NSW Government announced a $132.7M investment into NSW SES facilities, resources and staffing. As part of this funding, the NSW SES split its Northern and Western Zones, effectively creating two additional zones to service regional communities.” New staff, training, facilities and assets have been put into place to increase the effectiveness of the SES and RFS that works alongside them.State Government“NSW needs a permanent reconstruction agency which begins the reconstruction process as the disaster strikes and thus works to ameliorate community devastation. Better still, it will also provide education and infrastructure before a disaster strikes to minimise its harm.”State Government has provided a dedicated response team with solutions that are helping resolve current recoveries and has a remit to mitigate future issues - the Reconstruction Authority.“The NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA) was established in 2022 to take on responsibility for disaster preparedness and prevention, and for reconstruction and recovery following disasters and other emergencies. The NSW Reconstruction Authority Act 2022 sets out the functions for the new Authority.“The RA released the nation’s first-ever State Disaster Mitigation Plan in late February and is now progressing Regional Disaster Adaptation Plans for the Northern Rivers.”The success of the RA is hotly debated. However, it is making large strides towards progress, “760 buyback offers had been approved, and 607 buyback offers had been accepted. More than 370 homeowners in the Northern Rivers are prioritised and are now receiving tailored assessments to make their homes more resilient against flooding.” “...improvements to evacuation routes, upgrading and replacing flood pumps and improving drainage are among a list of 36 projects under the $150 million Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program.”The devastation remaining after the 2022 Floods is an ongoing, difficult natural hazard to recover from. If you are still struggling and require help, use the Disaster Assistance Finder to access support.Federal Government "These strengthened disaster governance structures must be supported by appropriate teams, systems, and tools, including a Cost-Benefit Analysis Framework developed from the preliminary work undertaken by NSW Treasury.” “Further, to drive recovery in the first 100 days after a disaster, a more streamlined and agile response from Government is required, supported by clear transition initiatives in moving from immediate to longer-term recovery phases”NEMA has outlined some of the things they are doing in response to the damage done in the 2022 Floods, including introducing a Higher-Risk Weather Season National Preparedness Summit, built a National Emergency Management Stockpile, and awarded funding to several organisations for improvements.  However, in the question of direct funding offered by the government, there remains a problem between promised funding to the region and what has been delivered to date.Police, Fire + Rescue & Health“There also needs to be a cultural shift in the way our first responders and combat agencies prepare for and respond to flood. Despite well-established and sound emergency management arrangements being in place across the state, the 2022 flood events exposed significant capability gaps within the agencies responsible to deliver under these arrangements.”Calling 000The police relayed information on the increased reliance of the 000 service. “On the 28th February 2022, we received 2500 priority calls. That time of volume had not been experienced before.” There was a problem with people being able to access emergency services using 000 during the floods.The Telco Authority nominated Telstra as the organisation in charge of operating the 000 service, however, Telstra did not mention any anomalies in its reply to us about issues.  Ironically, on 30th April,2024 Hon Michelle Rowland MP Minister for Communications, issued a statement in response to the Optus outage last year, in which Optus users weren’t able to access the emergency hotline. A review is planned, which “is the first comprehensive review of the Triple Zero ecosystem in over a decade”. Ms Rowland said, “This Review is the most comprehensive examination of the Triple Zero ecosystem in over a decade. It means we have a workable blueprint to implement changes that will help improve the resilience of telecommunications in this country.”Perhaps it is not in response to the floods, but there is comfort that something is being done.PoliceThe police had a “thorough” review post floods “This led to internal structural changes with the creation of a Deputy Commissioner – Emergency Management and additional resources in our Emergency Management Unit. We have increased our training of senior police who undertake the role of Local Emergency Operations Controller who now undertake a specific series of courses that upskill them in all facets of emergency management. Our Police Rescue Unit have also increased their capability with extra personnel and equipment, specifically around flood rescue.” The police called in 1500 extra personnel to assist with post-flood issues.Fire+RescueF+R contribute where the SES need them. “FRNSW has trained an additional 200 In-Water rescue technicians since the 2022 flood events.” They have also increased their equipment including 12 inflatable rescue boats.HealthAccording to the Department of Health’s report, they have established an Emergency Operations Centre, reviewed their emergency plans, and are taking measures to plan for future emergencies. They brought in extra personnel when needed, and had a team of Disaster Recovery Clinicians to assist with mental health issues post floods.Essential EnergyEssential Energy's report was packed with figures relating exactly what happened during the floods.  They were adept at keeping people posted during the floods, and in response to delays. “Since the floods, Essential Energy has turned its attention to the lessons learned and adaptive planning to build a more resilient network to withstand the increase of network events on its assets, while ensuring a safe and reliable supply.”Essential Energy acknowledged the Flood Inquiries recommendation to minimise disruption to essential services, and has provided a range of solutions which includes, “providing fuel or generators as appropriate to support the community throughout the response”.Communications“Enhanced and more resilient essential services are needed. Many telecommunications services were disrupted for extended periods. These disruptions must be minimised to ensure the community can access the information it needs to make appropriate decisions, and to improve combat agency flood response capability – especially in regional areas. This includes moving critical infrastructure off the floodplain, improving power backup arrangements and delivering a consolidated state disaster app for mobile devices.” Communication companies have been provided large sums of money to ensure communication networks are as effective as possible and alternative sources are made available. Telstra, Optus, and TPG Telecom acknowledge that alternative, transportable communication devices exist, but it is difficult to find out how many or what the sourcing details are.We were not provided with specifics on just how many people were affected then and what has been done to minimise that impact in the future. It is in the best interest of our communities for communication companies to be more transparent when it comes to declaring their efforts in times of need.TPG Telecom was the most forward in supplying information and is exploring new technologies to keep us aware of what weather patterns around us are doing quicker and utilising infrastructure that we are already putting in place. Telstra also talked about technology that they were developing. Some were using an international communications network; however, much of the information was over 7 months old with no updates.AnimalsAnimals have seemingly been “promoted” in recent events. From more domestic needs and requiring specialist accommodation in evacuation centres, to providing them with urgent food supplies and medical treatments during recovery. Wildlife is being included. A subplan under the NSW State Emergency Management Plan, the Wildlife in Emergencies Sub Plan is being developed to manage any “emergency affecting wildlife in NSW.”The community - charities and you“Despite (or because of) these capability gaps, community-led flood rescues, particularly in the Northern Rivers region, worked extremely well under the circumstances. Without such rescues, there would have been significantly higher loss of life, and the Inquiry commends these community efforts.""Government needs to harness, celebrate, and empower safe and coordinated community-led initiatives, not only for rescues but also for evacuation support and the provision of services, including first aid and charitable donations.”Charities have learned some important lessons in the 2022 floods. Where not to have their headquarters is one, and not to extend your capabilities too far is another. Some have made a lot of changes, and some are content to take things in their stride, sticking to a tried and true path, just scaling when the need arises.  One area that has caught the attention of officials is the adaptability of spontaneous volunteers, or people coming out from everywhere to help in the advent of an emergency. The re-emergence and strengthening of Community Resilience Networks, or CRNs, means there will be a dedicated merging between individual efforts with official coordination of resources in the event of an emergency.“an important component of preparedness is at a personal or family level. Failure to prepare at this level makes preparations at other levels more difficult and expensive.” Individuals are able to implement most of the safety precautions they need. Speaking to the SES at the time, about the amount of assistance needed in the first flood at the end of February in 2022 and the flood at the end of March 2022, showed a marked decline in reliance on their services. In February, people were completely taken by surprise at what the water levels were and how quickly they rose. The latter was like a rehearsed performance, with people having a greater depth of understanding, what to expect and how to ensure their own preparation was sufficient.Preparation and agility are what we are looking for in the future. Varying degrees of both were shown over the last two years; some organisations did not need or want to change much, but others, understanding their responsibility and/or desire to ensure their reputation, have displayed the need for more. In the balance, we are far better prepared for an unexpected future, as a community.Individually, realistic self reflection on your requirements will allow you to prepare for situations adequately, and provide you with agility to make changes if and when you need to. There are many services available from Council, charities and the imminent Reconstruction Authorities "Get Ready" plan that will assist you. For fine tuning that assistance, speak to family, friends and other support networks to ensure you are comfortable with your tailored safety plan.“Success relies on implementation of this report’s recommendations, though the Inquiry notes that full implementation will not and cannot be the panacea for all disasters and should not engender complacency. Enhanced disaster preparedness will not mean the emergency management response required is any less complicated.”Do you think that the flood level will ever get that high again? In essence, we can assess risk, we can look for signs and do as much as possible to mitigate potential issues. But if that fails, it’s the lessons we learn and how we choose to act upon them that make the difference.“Disasters, by their very nature, will always be difficult, and we cannot predict or model our way out of them. We can ensure our emergency management processes embed the requirement for continual learning and improvement for the next disaster response.” Other stories in this series includes:Part 1: Essential Energy Part 2: Communications - Telstra and OptusPart 2: Communications - TPG Telecom and nbnPart 3: Police and Fire + RescuePart 4: Critical Flood InformationPart 5: AnimalsPart 6: Federal GovernmentPart 7: CharitiesPart 8: Local GovernmentPart 9: SES / RFS Part 10: HealthPart 11: State Government / RAPart 12: You

A recent change in legislation has brought a heavier hand for crime with a particular focus on youth crime. In an effort to stop recidivist offences, it is now much harder for serious offenders to be granted bail. To dissuade encouraging crime, bragging via social media is now a criminal act. Surprisingly, until recently, it was difficult to restrict bail for young offenders who were at risk of reoffending. A Communities and Justice spokesperson confirms, “Recent changes to the Bail Act 2013 and Crimes Act 1900 were in response to persistently high crime rates in regional NSW and recent spikes in motor theft and break-and-enter offending.“Changes to the Bail Act introduced a temporary additional bail test for all young people, aged 14 to 18, who are charged with committing certain motor vehicle theft or serious break and enter offences while on bail for offences of the same type.”The bail test is only allowed to be applied by someone with relevant power, such as police, magistrates and judges. They will need a high degree of confidence that the young person may re-offend, “In these cases, the new temporary test provides that bail must not be granted unless the bail authority has a high degree of confidence the young person will not commit a serious indictable offence while they are on bail.”Sharing misdeeds via social media can now attract an additional 2 years imprisonment for their crimes, “A new performance crime offence has also been introduced to the Crimes Act, which targets offenders of motor theft or break and enter offences who also share material to advertise their offending conduct.“This type of ‘performance crime’ or ‘posting and boasting’ may encourage others, particularly young people, to engage in similar criminal behaviour.”Police confirm “Young people are using social media to promote their activities. And that fuels the one-upmanship.”These changes have been brought in across NSW, including Lismore. However, the Communities and Justice spokesperson says, “It is too early to say if anyone has been convicted of the new performance crime offence or comment on how the bail changes are operating.”The NSW Government has a range of interventions and diversionary strategies that are used to address anti-social behaviour and youth crime. These include:The Youth on Track program, which provides case management, behaviour and family interventions to young people aged 10-17 who are at risk of long-term involvement in the criminal justice system. https://www.nsw.gov.au/legal-and-justice/youth-justice/youth-on-track/locations.Youth Justice Conferencing, which brings together a young person who has committed an offence, the victim, NSW Police and other relevant representatives to divert young people from the criminal justice system.The Bail Accommodation & Support Service, operated by Youth Justice NSW (YJNSW), which actively works to reduce the numbers of young people remanded on bail due to accommodation issues.There are also programs aimed towards Aboriginal young people, such as My Journey My Life and Dthina Yuwali.A full list of all early intervention and diversion programs across NSW can be found here.If members of the public want to report a crime, they can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or call 000 in an emergency.

Nimbin Mardigrass, 2024, had a colourful Saturday with some big names in attendance to celebrate, as well as some new events in the ever-popular Hemp Olympics. There were also many politicians and professionals to discuss the benefits of cannabis use and issues with the legislation.Michael Balderstone, the founder of Nimbin Mardigrass, is a fixture, and he was joined this year by Graeme Dunstan, one of the founders of the Aquarius Festival in Nimbin, back in 1973. The Aquarius Festival was a ten-day event and is claimed to be the first time a Welcome to Country ceremony initiated an event.Michael is very happy with Mardigrass 2024 and says “ I just want everyone to enjoy themselves and have a good time.” He speaks of the new “sport” in the Hemp Olympics, which is called Dealers Dilemma. “The dealer is in a house, doing a deal, and the sirens wail as the cops show up. The dealer then has to throw one-pound bags (of dope) out a window. 16 of them!”Michael mentions that Julian Assange's father, John Shipton will also be in attendance. ”John gets a lot of support from around here and it would be great to get some good news regarding Julian.”As ever, the locals and tourists alike turned out to enjoy one of the biggest events in Nimbin of the year. The Jungle Patrol, a local contingent to help with crowds is there. Max from the Jungle Patrol said, “For the last 32 years, we have run a community safety initiative to make the festival comfortable for everyone who comes and joins in.” Another member claims they are “Keeping Nimbin Nearly Normal. Peaceful, goodness, happiness, love and respect, that's what it's about.”Rose from the Northern Rivers Hemp Growers Co-op was involved in a talk about the latest in Hemp product development. He talks about the myriad of uses of cannabis, “It’s the only plant in the world that can house, clothe, feed and be used for medicine." “All 60,000 uses have merits and there are so many still being explored. For our region, using locally grown, tested and with proven health benefits topical pain-releasing oils have been in huge demand, however, the hope is to build a community from hemp, as a building product it is perfect for fire and flood-prone areas, all while being ideal for absorbing carbon from our environment.”On the other side of Hemp Culture is the battle with legislation. There are plenty of placards around with slogans illustrating perspectives and serious discussion about the future of cannabis use in Australia.)"Peaceful not criminals" Nimbin Mardigrass slogan)Michael says the biggest point in the legal discussion is drug driving testing, “Saliva testing of drivers is just disgusting. It's nothing to do with impairment, nothing to do with helping people on the road, and it's this unique thing in Australia which our cops seem to think is cool. No other country is doing it.”David Heilpern (Dean of Law at SCU) and Sue Higginson (Greens) spoke about Cannabis Laws in Australia. Both are passionate about Australia’s drug driving laws, which they agree are outdated.Mr Heilpern said that his advocacy stems from his experience as a magistrate, “I couldn't stand drug driving. So many people with prescriptions, single mums coming before me and I'd have to take away their licences even though they had a script. One million Australians have a prescription for cannabis, and they can't drive.”  Cannabis can stay in your system for a day or more, and to drive with any trace of cannabis in your system is currently a criminal offence. Mr Heilpern claims research shows that if cannabis is prescribed by a doctor, it will not impair your driving.“The problem is, of course, that 11,000 people every year in New South Wales will go before the court and have their licence suspended for driving with cannabis in the system. Broadly, more than half of those are for medicinal purposes.”“For me, the priority is medicinal cannabis users should be in the same boat as medicinal valium users, or anti-anxiety pill users, or medicinal opioid users. They should be able to drive in accordance with their doctor's instructions.”225,000 drug drive tests have been carried out in NSW in the last year.Ms Higginson said, “The government needs to realise they have a whole class of people who are trying to have self determination over their health and wellness, and they have found a mechanism to do that but it ultimately criminalises them.”Mr Heilpern questions the industry, “I'm quite surprised that the cannabis industry hasn’t started doing their own marketing. Why aren’t they running ads on social media in the papers and on the Lismore app saying, this law needs to be changed.”Discussion turns to international determinations. Ms Higginson says, “We are so far behind that when we are looking at countries that have legalised it, they have different models of legalisation, and it's not in the medicinal cannabis stream any longer.” Mr Heilpern says that there are medicinal defences in New Zealand, Ireland, England, Canada, most of the U.S. and most of the EU.Senator David Shoebridge of the Greens represented at the Uppers & Lowers talk: the Legislative Path to Legalising Cannabis. The senator is firm in his conviction, “One of the biggest hurdles to getting proactive cannabis laws for Australia has been the lack of political imagination, thinking it required step-by-step reform in each state and territory. “The good news is, as the Greens’ Federal Justice spokesperson, I have presented the Legalising Cannabis Bill 2023 to the Senate and it shows how we can, in a single piece of legislation, legalise cannabis for the whole country.“This Greens’ Bill shows how the Federal Parliament can create a single legal cannabis market across the country that is not dominated by multinational pharmaceutical, alcohol and tobacco companies, and that creates thousands of new sustainable green jobs. “When the Commonwealth parliament finally makes cannabis legal, that will also turn off all the State and Territory laws that criminalise cannabis across the country.”Jeremy Buckingham (Legalise Cannabis) gave a talk on It’s High Time We Legalise Cannabis with Cate Faehrmann (Greens). He spoke about how close he thinks the legalisation of marijuana use is, “It’s hard to say when it will happen. Our hope and expectation is that legalisation will be an obvious recommendation to come out of the planned NSW Drug Summit later this year. The Government could be brave and simply agree to the recommendation, but it’s more likely to take it to the next election. So assuming Labor gets a second term, my bet would be some form of legalisation in 2027. Full legalisation, with shops on the corner, will take much longer.“Our main goal before legalisation is to change our insane driving laws to allow medicinal cannabis patients to drive whilst not impaired. The saliva tests that we use right now are a joke – they test for presence and not impairment, and can be easily rendered ineffective if you know what you’re doing.”Mr Buckingham appreciates the role the Nimbin Mardigrass has played in Cannabis legislation, “ Full credit to Michael Balderstone and his Hemp Embassy crew for putting on MardiGrass. Back in 1993, when it started, cannabis legalisation seemed a very long way off indeed. Now we are right on the edge of it. So often the people who were called crazy are really just visionaries – they can see further into the future than the rest of us. It’s both a party and a political act to take part in MardiGrass. The best of both worlds!”The Mardigrass kicks off this morning at 10am. The Hemp Olympics starts at 11.30am and the Cannabis Law Reform Rally and Parade is on at 2.30pm.

The Lismore App has been the leading digital daily newspaper for the Lismore LGA for a number of years.Since November 2017, we have endeavoured to bring you accurate, balanced news and sports stories, both big and small, that benefit our beloved city.As is the case with most businesses, you end up asking yourself, "What is next?"For the Lismore App, it is entering the world of Podcasts.Our goal is to bring you interesting and helpful podcasts that reflect life in the Lismore LGA.Talking Lismore is the name of our podcasts, and we kick off with a series about solar energy with our resident solar expert Mike Haydon from Off The Grid. What Mike doesn't know about solar, isn't worth mentioning.Over a five-part series that run 10-15 minutes, we discuss the costs of solar and how to save you money, what panels and inverters to buy, are batteries a good investment?, what are the tricks installers use to get you to buy what they want you too rather than what is good for you and we look at the future of solar. Mike ends up talking about Lismore homes run off their electric cars. More on that later.Every Sunday we will release a new podcast, so simply click on the Podcast button on the front page down the bottom right of your App.We have made listening to these podcasts, very simple. Push the button, find the podcast you want to listen to and push play. It will play through your phone, your car (if you can connect your mobile) or your PC if you use the website (use the arrows on the right hand side of the menu).Mayor Steve Krieg, Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin and Member for Page Kevin Hogan will all appear on a monthly basis so you can stay up to date with what is happening in our LGA.If you have an idea for a podcast, please email [email protected] now, happy listening.

Summerland Bank in Lismore has come out on top in Australian Red Cross Lifeblood’s annual Financial Services Blood Drive in the Northern Rivers region as residents are urged to continue donating blood and plasma to keep up with increasing demand. The Financial Services Blood Drive, which runs for the first three months of the year, saw 11 people on the Summerland Bank team give blood and plasma, including five incredible first-time donors. Together they saved up to 30 lives! Lifeblood spokesperson Scott Morrison thanked the Summerland Bank community for their generosity and said every donation was truly appreciated. “There is clearly a strong desire from the people of Lismore and the Northern Rivers to do something to help those who require blood,” Scott said. One in three people will need blood or blood products in their lifetime. Recipients include people having cancer treatment, people with blood disorders, surgery patients and women in childbirth. Scott added you never know when you or someone you love may need blood or plasma. “The need for blood never stops. In fact, demand rose 3 per cent last year and is expected to continue to increase as our population grows. “I encourage people who donated last year to keep coming back to impact even more lives in 2024. I also urge other people in the community, who have not donated before, to follow their lead.  “Let’s see what our local businesses, sporting clubs and community groups can achieve together in 2024!”  A blood donation appointment takes one hour, with the donation itself only lasting up to 10 minutes, whereas a plasma appointment takes an hour and a half with the donation lasting a little over 30 minutes. People can even book to donate with a friend for a social outing with a life-changing outcome.Lifeblood’s Lismore Blood Donor Centre is open every Monday to Saturday – 6 days a week. To book a donation, call 13 14 95 or book online at lifeblood.com.au or on the DonateBlood app. If you would like to know more about donating blood visit lifeblood.com.au