A record crowd of nearly 100 people attended the ninth flood buyback house auction in Lismore on Tuesday night, with successful bidders walking away with homes ranging from $400 to $79,000, including three Pine Street houses.Up to 118 buyback properties have now been offered for sale since December last year, capturing nationwide attention. The Wal Murray & Co First National Real Estate auction of 12 homes at the Lismore Heights Bowling Club attracted 45 registered bidders, including eight phone bidders.The buyers were a mix of tradespeople, young families and business owners, some with land already lined up.All properties sold for a total value of $250,900.  The highlights included: 9 First Avenue, East Lismore: $22,500.      9 Pine Street, North Lismore: $16,100.17 Pine Street, North Lismore: $4,600.​21 Pine Street, North Lismore: $10,300.19 Simmons Street, North Lismore: $79,000.35 Terania Street, North Lismore: $25,000.112 Terania Street, North Lismore: $6000.39 Barrow Lane, North Lismore: $1000.314 Molesworth Street, central Lismore: $400.315 Keen Street, East Lismore: $35,000.241 Molesworth Street, central Lismore: $41,00018 Tweed Street, North Lismore: $10,000.There is no reserve price on these houses. Prices have ranged from $1 to $200,000, meaning bidding can start and end at $1, making it one of the most accessible housing opportunities in Australia. All house owners will now have 12 months to relocate their property to flood-free land. Every property is unique, with homeowners expecting relocation costs upwards of $100,000 depending on the property.Nine auctions have been held this year since June, and another two auctions will be held before Christmas; two houses in Casino onsite at Gilby Street this Saturday, December 6, and 10 houses at the Lismore Workers Sports Club next Tuesday, December 9 from 5:30pm. The auction program will then pause over Christmas and resume in early 2026.All NSW proceeds from the home sales (after costs) are reinvested into the Resilient Homes Program to support more flood-affected residents. For more information on upcoming auctions, go to https://www.prd.com.au/northernrivers/relocation-homes/.(20 Rhodes Street, South Lismore, up for auction next Tuesday)Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said, “The record crowd attending the auction on Tuesday night shows that this program is capturing the imagination of Northern Rivers residents.“The sight of so many young families and first-home buyers making a successful bid is heartening, and a great thing for our community.“It’s encouraging to see strong interest from buyers who understand the value of giving these homes a second life.“The buyback auctions have never been about the sale price for the Reconstruction Authority. We just wanted to get these homes repurposed for a safe future. NSW Reconstruction Authority A/Head, Adaptation, Mitigation & Reconstruction Kristie Clarke said, "We’ve had some great stories, including families who have become first-time homeowners thanks to this initiative.“Up to 118 homes have been offered for sale and eventual relocation. This is an amazing outcome, and we still have 12 more homes to be auctioned before Christmas.”

Lismore took a huge step towards housing a good proportion of its homeless population from early January 2026, when the nearly $4 million hub officially opened on McKenzie Street, near Lismore Square, on Wednesday.NSW Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson, Minister for Recovery and Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin, Lismore Mayor Steve Krieg and Social Futures CEO Tony Davies cut the ribbon and toured the new 54-room facility.The old Fromelles Manor RSL retirement facility has been part of Lismore's history, from squash courts, a private hospital, to an aged care facility and now a homeless hub that will provide much-needed crisis accommodation for individuals and families experiencing housing insecurity and homelessness in Lismore and the Northern Rivers. As we know, the state government has been spending large amounts of money on housing those sleeping rough in motels throughout Lismore. This new Lismore hub offers a greater chance of helping people transition into permanent housing. It is a collaboration between the NSW Government and Community Housing Provider Social Futures, supported by more than $1 million in funding from the Homelessness Innovation Fund (HIF) and $2.9 million in funding through the Commonwealth’s Crisis and Transitional Accommodation Program (CTAP).The hub features 54 self-contained en-suite rooms, alongside a range of communal spaces, including a playroom for children, interconnecting rooms for families, and private consultation rooms. If needed, families can live in a separate wing in the hub.(A single room in the new Lismore homeless hub)Fourteen of the 54 new rooms are dedicated to women aged 55 and older, which is the fastest-growing group of people at risk of homelessness in NSW.Tony Davies said that 20% of the state's homeless are in the Northern Rivers and explained why older people are experiencing increased homelessness."We're seeing increasing numbers of older people. So, older women over 50 are definitely around the country, the fastest-growing group of people who are experiencing homelessness. Something we have seen is increasingly elderly people, well into their 70s and 80s, who are also losing rentals."What we've sometimes seen is that people had a long-term affordable rental. Then the property might be sold, and the new owner will put the rent up to the current market rate. And for some of these people that have been living there in their community for decades, they lose their rental, they might be faced with the rent to stay where they are is equal to their pension. So we're seeing that definitely single older women who are surviving on pensions, and even elderly couples. So it's a growing issue."There has been concern about the new facility being in the middle of a residential area, with immediate neighbours supportive of the concept but cautious as to the outcomes and how it may affect their lives.Ella Buckland's house backs onto one of the new common rooms. Ella is hopeful that the new homeless hub delivers in exactly the way that was explained to her by Social Futures."It hasn't opened yet, but I don't know how I feel about it yet. I think that there's an element of not in my backyard that I had momentarily when I heard of it. But obviously, I'm not sort of ideologically opposed to something like this."However, they've been great during the whole process. Really open with their communication. I've requested that there's a fence, obviously, to protect my daughter's privacy in the backyard. I have requested that the security cameras are turned inward and the lights don't shine in our house."They've agreed to those terms for all of us, the local residents. Barry showed us through and talked a lot about his other facility and how great that was working, so I am hopeful that it lives up to its promises. If it doesn't, Barry will hear from me."Why will the homeless hub be a success?This facility is purpose-built, so it offers all the wraparound support new residents will need to transition them into permanent housing, unlike motel accommodation, which only offers a roof over people's heads."What we wanted to do was find a way to break the cycle, so we'll be providing wraparound support. People will come in here, they'll have a safe place to stay, and we've already seen with the service we're operating in South Tweed, you can just see people relax once they know they're safe, that they're not worrying about getting through the night without violence. Are they going to have to be protected?"So, that wraparound support includes case managers to help them deal with any Centrelink issues, any debt issues, to help get them onto the public housing waiting list, or to reconnect with family, to get the medical support, and might be mental health support and the other support team needs. And what that does is it creates a foundation so that people are actually able to get back into the workforce, get some income, and actually get back into housing," Tony Davies explained.Minister Rose Jackson said, "So we're talking 24/7, on-site support. We're talking life skills. There's kitchens and laundries where people can learn how to look after themselves and live independently. There's case workers who can work through people being on the public housing waiting list, accessing mental health services if they need, accessing substance abuse services if they need, there'll be counselors and other people to work through people who might be experiencing mental health challenges or some sort of anti social behavior issues to help them regulate that better and be able to permanently and stably support themselves.(A communal area and the kitchen)"Because that's the goal here. What we want to do is say, okay, something's going on in your life, and you've ended up experiencing homelessness. We're going to give you that roof over your head in a stable, supported, secure environment, and then let's talk through what's led you to that situation and start systematically resolving those issues, whether they're mental health, whether they're substance abuse, whether they're financial issues, gambling addiction, all of that will be identified and then people be connected in with services that can respond to their individual needs."What is the biggest challenge?Tony Davies said that one of the biggest challenges will always be securing long-term housing. There have been some good signs from the facility that Social Futures is operating in Tweed; they are getting people moving roughly in equal numbers into private rental and into public housing.Therein lies the biggest challenge: the lack of housing, either private or public.As we know, there are a limited number of private rentals in the market, and those that are available are out of reach financially at $600 plus a week. The 50 Build to Rent properties in East Lismore are 12 months away from being completed, everything going well, with a percentage allocated to affordable rents.Public or social housing is also not in plentiful supply. Homes NSW has been redeveloping two sites in East Lismore, building 16 units on Caldwell Avenue and Walker Street, and another 6 units on Dibbs Street. Social Futures is currently redeveloping another housing site in Goonellabah, Phillip Street, moving from an established 7 units to 16, with a mix of social and affordable housing.The Lismore App has heard that Homes NSW will also be involved with the new North Lismore development, now that the state government has finally purchased the land. That means there will be a social housing component."All of the Homes New South Wales engagements do deliver a social housing outcome. We're looking for absolutely every opportunity that we can. We've actually got the largest pipeline of social housing in a regional area here in the Northern Rivers and the north coast. So we're really focusing on this. We've already seen some new homes coming online in Lismore and surrounding areas, and there absolutely will be more to come over coming years," Minister Jackson said.The lack of housing options means the transition process will be slow, so residents may well find themselves using the homeless hub for longer than ideal."The reality is, we are able to support people for extended periods here. We don't intend it to be permanent housing. We're looking for those long-term solutions through social housing, but there's no cut-off, there's no cap, there's no Well, you've done your time, here's the door."The support that's available on site is meant to work through. Some people will maybe only need a little bit of support. That's great. Some people might need to stay for a little bit longer, and that's okay too," Minister Jackson stated.Between now and early January, the offices that will be used by the wraparound services will be completed and the first residents will move in soon after.

Marquis Macadamias has taken out one of the country’s top honours, winning the 2025 Australian Export Award for Agribusiness, Food and Beverages.The local site at Alphadale, established in 1983 under the former Macadamia Processing Co-operative (MPC), became the foundation of what would eventually form the Marquis Group.While the company now operates major processing facilities in both Queensland and northern NSW, the Lismore plant remains its original home base. The site still processes locally grown nuts, employs more than 100 seasonal workers and receives supply from over 200 growers across the region.Today, Marquis is one of the world’s largest grower-owned macadamia businesses, processing up to 28,000 tonnes of nut-in-shell annually and delivering premium kernel, oil, paste and flavoured products to markets across Asia, Europe and the United States.For CEO Ben Adams, the award is recognition of decades of dedication from farmers, staff and regional communities.(Photo: supplied)“Australia is home to the world’s leading macadamia growers and processing expertise,” he said. “Macadamias are one of the few native Australian foods successfully commercialised and exported globally - a true national success story.”“We want our legacy to be a viable and sustainable Australian macadamia industry that delivers premium prices for our growers and premium products for our customers.”Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan attended the ceremony in Canberra in his role as Shadow Minister for Trade, Investment and Tourism. He said it was “a proud moment to see a Northern Rivers co-operative recognised on the national stage.”“I had a great chat with Steven Lee, their Chief Operating Officer, on the night,” Mr Hogan said. “The passion he has for the industry, and for the team back at home really shows. This award is a testament to the growers, staff and everyone involved in building Marquis into what it is today.”“When you’re in a room full of Australia’s top exporters, and one of our own is being honoured, it means something. This recognition doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built on decades of hard work from our community.”The award also comes as new regional economic data highlights the importance of agriculture to the Northern Rivers. The Northern Rivers Economic Profile and Natural Hazard Impacts report notes the region’s agricultural sector remains one of its top three contributors to Gross Value Added and is known for “world-leading produce like macadamias, avocados and sugar cane”.The report estimates the Northern Rivers generated $22.8 billion in Gross Regional Product in 2024, with agriculture, forestry and fishing accounting for 8% of total GVA - a significant contribution in a region with a diverse economy spanning health, education, tourism and manufacturing.It also identifies more than 4,800 agriculture-related businesses operating across the region, highlighting how deeply farming and its associated industries are embedded in the local economic landscape.Marquis has also recently expanded its global footprint, playing a central role in the inaugural Australian Macadamia Festival in Mumbai, a two-week culinary showcase that helped introduce Australian macadamias to the Indian market.For Lismore, this national recognition is a reminder of the region’s resilience and our ability to create products that compete on the world stage.

We may be on the run to Christmas, and your thoughts are about finishing work, holidays, Christmas gifts and Christmas lunch, but Rebekka Battista, Our Kids Fundraising Coordinator said to keep the 2026 Samson Challenge in mind over the festive season."It's our 16th Samson Challenge for 2026, and today we're getting all the items out and putting out a call for people to train for the Samson," she said."Everyone's allowed to have Christmas and New Year's off, but then it's back to training."On 7 March 2026, teams from across the region will come together to compete in this iconic Northern Rivers fitness challenge and help raise vital funds for Our Kids.The Samson is a four-person team event featuring twelve demanding challenges, including a farmers walk with jerry cans, a prowler push, a 130 kg truck tyre flip, a burpee challenge, a 2 x 2 km run, a 1 km team swim, a sled pull and an obstacle course… and to complete the course 100 burpees are required from each team. A tough end to a gruelling, challenging event.The fastest team will take home the coveted Samson title. However, it is not always the fastest team that wins. In 2025, the Ballina RSL team raised over $4,000 and took home the trophy for raising the most money.All money raised is going towards purchasing a new ventilator for the special care nursery to replace the 15-year-old one. With $60,000 already raised through the Winter Ball, Lismore, Casino and local Government Golf Day, and the Melbourne Cup Luncheon, another $10,000 will get it over the line, with any additional dollars put towards the next piece of needed equipment for the Lismore Base Hospital."The special care nursery sees around a third to a quarter of the babies in the Northern Rivers, and a ventilator is a vital piece of equipment," Rebekka said.The 2026 Samson will again feature a full weekend program, including Samson Solo, Samson Teen Sprint, and Samson Kids, giving the whole community an opportunity to take part. Last year, the youngest competitor was 14, and the oldest was 72.The 41st Battalion Royal New South Wales Regiment (41 RNSWR) and the Goonellabah Sports and Aquatic Centre (GSAC) team have also continued their strong support for next year’s event, with the Army donating equipment to assist the day and GSAC to host the much-loved swim leg.Rebekka, along with Kris Van Bibber and Sandie Judd from Switch Gym, said you can't just turn up and expect to complete the course."We do ask people to train for the Samson because there are weights involved. That's why we launch in December to say, Right, this is the time to find your trainer or contact a local gym. All the gyms in the area participate and do Samson training, so it won't be hard to find one," Rebekka explained.Having completed the Samson several times, Kris said the sled push is his toughest element."That's always been my Achilles heel because it's usually later, and it's a lot harder to push in the middle to late part of the day. It's like pushing a car uphill. It taxes the muscles, depletes the lung capacity, and you feel like throwing up when you're done."Rebekka added that it has been nicknamed the 'vomitron' by some participants."There's a combination of strength elements, so your lifting, your carrying and your pulling at the beginning of it, which really depletes the energy sources. But then you have to run and swim at the pool here at GSAC, before running back, and then you do a fun obstacle course. It's a great way to end because there's a lot of agility and there's body weight components, like jumping into a tip of water after you do the monkey bars, jumping over a frame wall, climbing under and crawling under cargo nets."If you are new to the Samson Challenge, Kris suggested you start with resistance training and a lot of grip strength-type exercises."Because there's a few components where you have to lift, carry, and throw a dead ball over your shoulder. But also, going for a good run or a swim would also be great components to add to your workouts."Typically, Kris sees the bigger, stronger people struggle on the run or the swim, while the cardio-fit people struggle with the weight components.Sandie said that girls get a bit of a reprieve with some lower weights."They get to share the tyre flip, which is a little comforting. When you do some of the carries, we get a little bit lighter weight."The Samson attracts people from across New South Wales and South-East Queensland, as well as locals, to test themselves physically."It brings the community together and, along with our huge team of volunteers, helps put Lismore on the map for sport and fitness,” Rebekka added.“It is a great way to get involved and help support local children when they need medical care”, Rebekka said.Registrations for Samson 2026 are now open. Early bird registration is $360 per team.To register or to learn more about the course, visit www.lismoresamson.com or go to the Samson Challenge button on the front page of the Lismore App.For further information, please contact the Our Kids office on 6620 2705.

Today is International Day of People with Disability, and to mark the occasion, Lismore City Council Mayor Steve Krieg was joined by two long-standing members of Lismore City Council’s Disability and Inclusion Advisory Group (DIAG) at the Lismore Memorial Baths to call on the community to help formulate a plan for greater inclusion of those living with a disability.“According to a recent study, more than 3000 people are living with a disability in the Lismore community, making up 7.1% of our population, which is higher than the state average of 5.8%,” Mayor Krieg said.“That makes getting Council’s next Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) right so important, and we need community input to achieve that.“This year’s theme for International Day of People with Disability is ‘Fostering disability inclusive societies for advancing social progress’, and that’s exactly what we want our DIAP to do”.Council is seeking community feedback to support the third iteration of our DIAP 2026-2030."Now is the time that we are calling for submissions from our community for actions that they want to see Lismore City Council put forward as part of their Disability Inclusion Action Plan. Things that you will notice that are already being worked on around the CBD in particular, and out at Nimbin and in our villages are the new tactiles that are going in and around our footpaths."I've learned a lot being on this committee and other members who are visually impaired have taught me a lot about how critical the direction of those tactiles are. So it's really important for people that aren't living with a disability to understand how important these things are for some 3000 people in our LGA that are living with a disability in some form."The new DIAP will outline the key actions to be delivered by Council in its continued commitment to break down barriers to inclusive participation and protect the rights of people with disability in our communities.Council is engaging people living with a disability and their family, friends and carers, along with support services and advocacy groups, to inform the development of our new DIAP by providing feedback during the consultation period.Jenny London, who has been a member of the DIAG for over 15 years, said Lismore City Council was one of the few councils in the area to have a dedicated advisory group.“I’m incredibly proud of the role the DIAG has played in promoting a culture of access and advocating on behalf of the people with disability in our community to continue to deliver progress across Lismore."Our achievements are many and include initiatives like installing two mobile lifts at the Lismore Memorial Baths to allow people with impaired mobility to get in the water with dignity,” she said."We're very keen for the community to be involved in advising the council on anything that they would like to about access and the people with disability in the community. This is an opportunity for people with disability and their families, carers, and support workers to have a voice to the council. It's really critical that we get information from the people that live this every day."Community consultation has led to many facility improvements in the Lismore LGA. Another example was the introduction of an adult change table at GSAC."A lot of people don't realise that adults also need a change table when they have mobility problems, and people just think about a baby change table, so you've got to get one that's made for the weight. And that was a bit of challenge," Brad Lancaster explained, another person who has been on the DIAP for eight years.Mayor Krieg said Council is committed to delivering the actions outlined in the existing DIAP.Over the past four years Council’s achievements include:Lismore Regional Gallery staff undertaking regular accessibility training through Accessible Arts.Seeking feedback from the Disability Inclusion Advisory Group to identify key spaces for accessibility upgrades around the Lismore CBD.Organising major community events that were accessible to all members of the community. These events included Legends of Cricket, the Lismore Lantern Parade and the Jets versus Roar Soccer game.Consulting the Disability Inclusion Advisory Group before publishing the updated Lismore City Council website.Improving accessibility and connectivity through Heritage Park.Updating the recruitment process to include unconscious bias training for all panel members.Recruiting staff for attitudes towards diversity and inclusion.Supporting staff with assessment and provision of accessible workplace equipment/modifications for each employee at induction.Providing accessible destination and tourism resources to ensure residents and visitors can easily plan region-wide accessible experiences.Consulting the Disability Inclusion Advisory Group for feedback on the Nimbin Rainbow Walk.Transitioning from text-heavy signage to iconography-based signage on public facilities across the LGA.Lismore Regional Gallery receiving the IMAGinE Award for Innovation and Resilience 2022 for Collage Club.Lismore Regional Gallery receiving Highly Commended for The Future of Toys Youth Program in 2024.To provide feedback and support the development of our next DIAP, go to Your Say Lismore. Submissions close on Wednesday, 10 December.If you would like to have input into the Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2026-2030, you have one more week to do so through the Your Say area on Council's website. The survey will close next Wednesday, December 10.If people have further thoughts post the DIAP survey closure, you are encouraged to contact a Lismore City Councillor. The full list can be found by clicking here.Today, the NSW Government launched its four-year plan to build a more accessible, inclusive New South Wales.Consistent with the theme of this year’s International Day of People with Disability, the plan will foster more disability-inclusive communities for the benefit of everyone. The plan is a whole-of-government commitment to improving the lives of the more than 1.5 million people with disability in NSW.Designed and developed alongside people with lived experience and disability advocacy organisations, the plan sets targets to promote the abilities and contributions of people with disability. Importantly, it empowers people with disability to exercise their rights through the government’s $29 million investment in the Disability Advocacy Futures Program.The plan will see increased accessible social housing, new research into domestic, family and sexual violence, and improved accessible point-to-point transport services for people with disability.Increasing the employment of people with disability is a priority, so the plan demands more public sector employment of people with disability and backs a disability inclusive private sector through improving government procurement from disability enterprises.To make more government services more accessible, the plan expands information in Easy Read, explores emerging technologies and increases opportunities for students with disability to learn at their local schools.To learn more, visit the NSW Disability Inclusion Plan 2026-2029 website.

Lismore MP Janelle Saffin says the popular NSW container deposit scheme, Return and Earn, is celebrating eight successful years of recycling, refunding and keeping litter out of the environment.The scale of Return and Earn’s impact includes over 14.7 billion drink containers returned through the statewide network of more than 660 return points and over $1.4 billion in container refunds returned to recyclers. The Lismore LGA's contribution is above 108 million containers.According to Ms Saffin, that includes a grand total of 410,523,469 containers recycled within the Lismore Electorate and the surrounding areas of Tweed and Byron shires:219,918,405 containers in Tweed Shire Local Government Area108,452,980 containers in Lismore City Local Government Area51,842,200 containers in Byron Shire Local Government Area18,405,497 containers in Tenterfield Shire Local Government Area.11,904,387 containers in Kyogle Local Government AreaSince launching on 1 December 2017, Return and Earn has changed behaviour to make recycling part of everyday routines.Return and Earn has also become a great way to fundraise for many charities and community groups in NSW. More than $82 million has been raised from donations and fees from hosting return points since the scheme began.The scheme’s birthday coincides with Return and Earn releasing the latest Local Government Area Network Volume Report, which shows eight years of enthusiastic community participation in the scheme by council area.To read the Local Government Volume Report, visit Return and Earn Network Volume Report.Households are encouraged to check the live status of their nearest return point on the Return and Earn app or website before visiting.For more information on Return and Earn, visit www.returnandearn.org.au.

Restoration works are now rolling out across the Lismore Showground, marking the most significant upgrade the grounds have seen since they were first established. More than 20 buildings are being repaired, rebuilt or redesigned, with project teams moving across the site to fix the damage, and build back better.North Coast National Project Manager Mark Bailey and North Coast National President John Gibson spent time walking The Lismore App through the grounds, showing the progress that has already been made. (Mark Bailey and John Gibson standing in a completely guttered Fine Arts Pavilion)Standing inside the Fine Arts Pavilion, where floodwater reached just under a metre high, Mark gestured to timber stripped back to bone.“Once we took the weatherboards off, we uncovered some termite damage travelling right up into the ceiling,” he said. “That changed the entire scope. We weren’t just repairing flood damage anymore, we were rebuilding some of the structure.”The solution is a building designed to be flood-resilient and practical. Marine ply will line the walls up to 2.4 metres, allowing sections to be unscrewed and replaced quickly after a future flood. Above that, new gyprock will finish the room cleanly, and for the first time in decades, the interior will be functional beyond Lismore Show week.“A lot of the original stands were built in 1905. They had character, yes, but they weren’t compliant, they weren’t accessible, and people had to clamber up on awkward angles just to look at displays,” Mark said. “Now everything will be on wheels. Roller doors are going in. There’ll be storage built in. When the cabinets aren’t out, this will be a designated event space - weddings, dinners, community functions. It won’t sit empty 360 days a year like it used to.”John nodded, noting that future plans include bathrooms at each end of the building.“We won’t get there in this round, the money doesn’t stretch quite that far, but once we do, it’ll open this precinct right up,” he said. “It’ll feel like a venue, not just a pavilion.”From there, we went down to the Jim Muldoon Poultry Pavilion, one of the most historic structures on the grounds, and one of the largest poultry facilities in New South Wales. What was once a dairy cattle shed in the 1950s now hosts shows that draw competitors from across the country.“This is one of the oldest poultry clubs in Australia,” John said. “People travel long distances to be here. It’s well regarded, and it’s been that way for a long time. Our big winter shows bring 800 to 1200 birds. With new pens, we’ll be able to cater for 1,250 comfortably.”The flood left the pavilion underwater, and when the original timber pens were assessed, repairing them proved more expensive than replacing them.“We’ve ordered nearly $200,000 worth of new cages,” Mark said. “They’re better for the birds, easier to clean, healthier overall.Beyond cages, the pavilion will receive freshly painted timbers, mechanical ventilation, new epoxy flooring, new side walls, and weatherboards that still line the perimeter will remain as a visible link to its agricultural past.2026 marks the 125th anniversary of the Poultry Club, a milestone John says will be celebrated in full.“There’ll be special prizes, extra money, a dinner on the Saturday night, we’ll hold it here at the showground,” he said. “Norma’s Kitchen is right across the way, so catering and hospitality are already here. We’ve got things other show societies don’t.”The last stop was the woodchop arena, or what remains of it. The 1900s timber pavilion shifted during the 2022 flood, likely lifting off its piers and settling back down crooked, leaving it structurally unsalvageable.“The flood didn’t just rise, it came through with velocity,” Mark said. “Engineers ruled out repair, the cost was too high, the structure too far gone, so we’re replacing it entirely.”The new facility will be slab-based with a modern skillion roof, and shaded space for seating where grandstands can be rolled in during competition.“Next year’s show includes an Australian title and a couple of state championships,” Mark said. “We’re the only show outside the Royals - Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne - that hosts an Australian championship.”Across the grounds, timelines remain flexible. The original aim was to complete works by May, then June - but lead paint, DA approvals, engineered components and scope adjustments have pushed some completion dates toward July.“It’s an unusual and unique project, 20 buildings affected, some for the first time ever,” Mark said. “This showground has gone through many floods, but the scale and speed of the 2022 event changed everything. This rebuild dwarfs anything before it, not just in size, but in scale of investment. It’s the biggest renewal these grounds have seen.”

Parents are being warned to do their research and only buy legal e-bikes for their children this Christmas, as police crackdown on modified bikes and dangerous riding.Around 600,000 households in NSW now own an e-bike. That number is expected to jump after Christmas Day. Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner David Driver has urged people to be aware of what type of e-bike they are buying and to check the rules to ensure they are purchasing a legal e-bike.“If you are considering buying an e-bike for Christmas, make sure it complies with NSW law,” Assistant Commissioner Driver said.“Don’t get pressured by your children, peers or salespeople into buying the most powerful bike.“Police don’t want someone to make a mistake that costs them their life or causes them serious injury.“We don’t want a Christmas present to become the ultimate buyer’s regret.”Assistant Commissioner Driver said parents had a responsibility to ensure the bike was not modified and urged parents to make sure their child could ride the bike safely before they went onto the road or footpath.“We have seen more modified bikes and powerful motors fitted,” he said. “We need riders to understand the dangers of riding on one wheel, without a helmet or in the dark with no lights.“An e-bike is illegal if it has a greater power output than 500 watts, even if it is limited by software.“Parents must remain vigilant and be aware of how easy it can be to modify the bike.”The NSW Government said it will move to reduce the output power to 250 watts, bringing it in line with all other jurisdictions around Australia.The NSW Government is also reviewing the definition of an e-bike in road rules to close loopholes that allow motorcycle-level devices to be sold and ridden as though they are bicycles.These state changes complement national action. The Commonwealth Government has now committed to reinstating import requirements that ensure e-bikes sold in Australia meet the European safety and quality standard, EN 15194. This will help keep low-quality, easily modified and dangerous devices out of the country.The updated rules are expected to take effect within months and will be done in consultation with retailers and the community to ensure a fair transition.Parents buying an e-bike this Christmas are encouraged to look for:A clear EN 15194 sticker or certificationA motor output of no more than 250 wattsA reputable brand with proper safety documentationA model that has not been modified, “chipped,” or had its speed limiter removedE-bike rules- Rider must primarily propel the bike with the pedals.- Motors are intended to assist when riding uphill or into headwind, not as the primary source of propulsion.- An electrically power-assisted cycle can only have a maximum power output of 500 watts.- The electric motor must cut off when the bicycle reaches 25km/h.- The electric motor should not assist the rider when travelling more than 25km/h but does not prevent the rider travelling faster with their own pedalling or going downhill.- The motor can be used up to 6km/h before the rider must pedal.- Illegal e-bikes are not able to be registered in NSW and are therefore unregistered and uninsured motor vehicles.- All riders and passengers must wear approved helmets that are securely fitted and fastened.- Only children under 16 years of age or adults accompanying a child under 16 can ride on a footpath, unless there are signs prohibiting bicycle riding.- Riders need to keep to the left and give way to pedestrians on shared paths or footpaths.- Mobile phones must be hands free or secured in a commercially manufactured phone holder fixed to the bike.- It is illegal to text, make video phone calls, use social media, or take photos/videos while riding.- Visit Transport for NSW e-bike website for more information.Fines - $818 for illegal e-bike use.- $410 for not wearing an approved helmet.- $410 for holding a mobile phone.- Riding under the influence of drugs or alcohol can lead to fines or imprisonment.- Penalties apply for negligent or dangerous riding.

BALLINA ROAD NOW OPWN 6:13PMA car accident on Ballina Road between Diadem Street and Rotary Drive has closed the highway in both directions.Live Traffic says Emergency Services are in attendance.Diversions are in place via Dawson Street, Uralba Street and Rotary Drive to travel to and from Goonellabah.This is suitable for B-Doubles.You can expect delays on Rotary Drive, so allow extra travel time.

The new Fernside Bridge is officially open, delivering safer, more reliable access for Fernside Road residents and marking the completion of Lismore City Council’s 11-bridge renewal program. The upgraded structure replaces the ageing 1961 timber bridge and stands more than a metre higher, offering greater flood resilience for a community that has lived with isolation during major weather events.At the opening, Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said the moment carried added significance because it represented the end of a long-running program to replace damaged and outdated bridges across the LGA.“Today’s a cause for celebration,” she said. “This is the 11th and final bridge Lismore City Council has led in this program, and when you open something that’s been built back better, it really is worth celebrating.”She said locals had already shared their gratitude: “The Mayor and I just walked up the road a bit and talked to one of the locals. She’s already thanked us. She said it was fantastic. She loved it.”The $1.6 million project was delivered by Council with support from the NSW Government, employing more than 30 local subcontractors and suppliers. Mayor Steve Krieg said the investment stayed where it mattered.“Using our local subcontractors and our local council staff keeps that money in the local economy,” he said. “It means that money doesn’t leave our LGA, it stays right here where we so desperately need it.”Cr Krieg said the new bridge offers a lifeline during emergencies, particularly for the rural residents who endured long periods cut off during the 2022 flood.“During the flood the water got right up to houses here,” he said. “The old bridge was a timber structure built 65 years ago and a lot lower. This will allow far greater access even in those high rainfall events. Nobody wants to be isolated, and these bridges are really critical.”Lismore City Council Bridge Engineer Steven Bennetts, who has overseen all 11 bridge upgrades, said the Fernside structure is designed to withstand significant weather events.“The bridge is approximately 1.2 metres higher than the old structure,” he said. “We’ve increased the waterway area too, so it allows more water to flow underneath and helps with flood height levels.”He explained that the new 26-metre single-span design removes the need for central piers, improving both strength and resilience. “There’s no pier lines underneath,” he said. “You’ve basically got abutments either side. That’s the longest span you can get with the type of plank we use.”Additional works included sealing the approaches and adding scour protection to prevent erosion. “We’ve done a lot more scour protection upstream and downstream,” Bennetts said. “It all helps make the bridge more resilient.”While Fernside Bridge is the final to open under the program, its completion ties together a much larger recovery effort that has stretched from Terania Creek to Nimbin and Rosebank. Cr Krieg said that sense of security is at the heart of why the project matters.“We met a gentleman today who’s still reliving the trauma of being isolated during the flood,” he said. “Having infrastructure that can withstand moderate to major floods is really important. It ensures people aren’t cut off when they most need connection.”For the residents who rely on this bridge every day - families, farmers, and the rural community - its opening is more than an engineering milestone. It’s a step forward in building back stronger.

Cancer survival rates in NSW are at an all-time high, with 73 per cent of people surviving at least 5 years after a cancer diagnosis, up from 71 per cent, according to a new report from the Cancer Institute NSW.The Cancer in NSW Report 2025 highlights the state’s collaborative, world-leading efforts to reduce cancer’s burden and how advancements in immunotherapy, genomics and diagnostics, as well as digital health and artificial intelligence, are transforming the way we prevent, detect and treat cancer.The report shows cancer incidence rates are stabilising and mortality rates are decreasing, with bowel and lung cancers having the greatest decrease in mortality rates over the past ten years.The report also outlines key efforts underway to reduce inequitable cancer outcomes, with Aboriginal people twice as likely to die from cancer than non-Aboriginal people, and people with the lowest socioeconomic status 50 per cent more likely to die from cancer than people with a high socioeconomic status.Initiatives to boost access to cancer clinical trials, including targeted grants for priority populations, are increasing participation. Nearly 3,300 people enrolled in a cancer clinical trial in 2024–25, up from 2,571 the previous year. The number of unique clinical trials also grew from 795 to 858.Other key initiatives highlighted in the report helping to improve cancer outcomes include:$21 million to support research in prevention and early detection, diagnosis, treatment and living well with and beyond cancer15 behaviour change campaigns on anti-vaping and anti-tobacco, breast, bowel and cervical screening and skin cancer preventionThe introduction of machine reading technology to support radiologists to interpret mammography images, as well as breast density reporting across BreastScreen NSW.Now in its sixth iteration, the NSW Cancer Plan 2022-2027 is helping guide the state’s cancer control efforts. As the state’s dedicated cancer control agency, the Cancer Institute NSW is working together with more than 80 organisations across government, non-government and community to reduce cancer’s impact and save more lives.The NSW Government invests around $180 million each year, through the Cancer Institute NSW, to improve cancer outcomes and lessen its impact for people across the state. Key insights from the report:The 5-year cancer survival rate is 73% (for 2017-21, up from 71% in the previous five year period)55,719 people in NSW are expected to be diagnosed with cancer in 202516,241 people in NSW are expected to die from cancer in 20251 in 2 people will be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85People living in regional and rural NSW have an 11% increased risk of receiving a cancer diagnosis, and an almost 20% increased risk of death from cancer than their city counterparts Aboriginal people are 1.4 times more likely to be diagnosed with cancer and 2 times more likely to die from the disease than non-Aboriginal people The most socioeconomically disadvantaged people in NSW are 1.5 times more likely to die from cancer than the least socioeconomically disadvantagedThe 5 most common cancers expected to be diagnosed by the end of 2025 are prostate, breast, melanoma of the skin, bowel and lung cancerThe 5 most common causes of cancer death by the end of 2025 are expected to be lung, bowel, pancreatic, prostate and breast cancerOverall incidence rates of cancer in people under 50 years-old has risen slightly, with the incidence rate 6% higher in 2023 than in 2014269 children aged 0-14 years are expected to be diagnosed with cancer in 2025392 adolescents and young adults (15-24 years) are expected to be diagnosed with cancer in 2025.Health Minister Ryan Park said, “Cancer is a disease that doesn’t discriminate and has the power to change lives in an instant. While our state’s survival rates rank among the best in the world, collectively cancers remain the leading cause of premature disease related death.“Our growing and ageing population means the demands on cancer care will continue to rise, so it’s absolutely critical our efforts continue to rise and meet this.“There’s still a lot more to do, but we’re deeply committed to improving cancer outcomes and addressing the unique needs of our diverse communities, I’m proud to see this highlighted in the report.”NSW Chief Cancer Officer and Chief Executive Cancer Institute NSW, Professor Tracey O’Brien AM said, “While NSW is recognised as a global leader in cancer outcomes, very few people are untouched by this devastating disease, and we must continue with our efforts to tackle cancer and its profound burden on our community collectively.“At the heart of this report are the unique perspectives and experiences of people living with and beyond cancer and the world-leading teams of experts and community leaders working together to change the future of cancer.”

Almost half (49%) of Australian pool owners are unsure if their pool gate would pass a safety inspection, with new research revealing widespread complacency as the peak drowning season approaches.The latest MagnaLatch® Pool Safety Report shows a worrying decline in vigilance, with close to three-quarters (70%) of pool owners admitting they hadn’t checked their pool gate in the past six months or more. 41% admitted they simply don’t think about it, while 21% are unsure what to look for and almost a quarter (24%) claim to not have the time.The data released in a partnership between D&D Technologies and Kids Alive as part of Check Your Pool Gate Month, reveals that almost half (45%) of pool owners would feel extremely worried and unsafe if they discovered their pool gate wasn’t protecting their family properly. Yet, close to a third (30%) of families have left their pool gate open when cleaning it.Laurie Lawrence, founder of Kids Alive and Check Your Pool Gate Month Ambassador, stresses that the findings show too many Australians are putting lives at risk through inaction and misplaced confidence.“This report is a real wake-up call,” says Laurie. “We’ve made significant progress in drowning prevention over the years, but we can’t afford to relax. Pool gates save lives yet too many people assume theirs is working fine without ever checking. That kind of complacency is dangerous.”The call comes as more than a third (33%) of pool owners do not remember when they had last gained a recent safety compliance certificate, with 13% admitting they hadn’t had one since the pool was first installed. Furthermore, 69% of Australians wouldn’t know how to fix or upgrade their pool gate or fence if it didn’t meet the safety standards and only 15% talk about pool safety regularly with family or friends.The leading reason for not checking or repairing gates was forgetfulness (41%), followed by lack of time (24%) and uncertainty about what to look for (21%). Australians are also underestimating the risk of minor faults or delays in fixing latches, with a third (36%) admitting they would rely on someone else to notice or fix the issue.“It only takes a moment for tragedy to strike,” continues Laurie. “A faulty gate can be just as dangerous as leaving a child unsupervised in the pool. It’s not just a gate, it’s a lifesaver.”Emma Lawrence, Operations Director of Kids Alive and Check Your Pool Gate Month Ambassador, says she feared pool owners were not aware of the immediate danger of leaving a pool gate propped open.“Although most families admitted they would feel very concerned if they discovered their gate wasn’t protecting their families; nearly a third are still propping it open when they are cleaning the pool, or most concerningly when a lot of people were using it,” says Emma.“We want people to understand there is never a time when it is okay to leave a pool gate open because it is the immediate first line of defence for protecting little ones from drowning. If they can’t get in, you diminish the risk.“The reality is most drownings occur in backyard pools, so we need to be most vigilant at home,” adds Emma.With summer around the corner, Check Your Pool Gate Month is reminding all Australians to take a few minutes to inspect their gates. Pool owners can provide the utmost safety for their families by upgrading the security of their gate hardware and ensuring they work properly.“One in three families believes pool owners should get an official safety inspection, and while we applaud and certainly encourage that sentiment, there are still things people can do themselves to make their pool gates safer. Checking the gate works properly only takes a few minutes, but it can mean the difference between life and death. Let’s make sure our kids are safe before they swim,” concludes Laurie.A comprehensive pool safety checklist is available at www.checkyourpoolgate.com.au, offering essential tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable summer for all.

Two significant points to come out of yesterday's Northern Rivers Economic Profile and Natural Hazard Impacts Report (yes, we do need to find a way to shorten the name) were collaboration and resilience.As we know, the governments spent 97% of their disaster funding on recovery and only 3% on preparedness. That is slowly changing, with some reports saying this is now 93% to 7%, while the Colvin report says it could be 87% to 13%. Whichever is correct, there is still a long way to go before we reach close to 50/50, where we spend as much on preparedness as we do on recovery.Minister for Recovery and Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said a Climate Council table puts the Federal seat of Richmond (Tweed, Murwillumbah, Mullumbimby, Byron and Ballina) as having the highest number of properties at high risk in the country, that is 31,564 or 28.88%. The Page electorate next door (Lismore, Casino, Kyogle, Woodburn, Grafton) is at Number 5 nationally, with 16.93% or 18,636 properties. One would think that Page's percentage has been reduced due to the Resilient Homes Buyback Program.While the imbalance in disaster spending shifts slowly, there are many wonderful examples of businesses that are building resilience into their long-term flood plans, as they learn to adapt to a changing climate.For some in the CBD, it was lining the walls with villaboard, a product known to be more moisture resistant than plasterboard. For two South Lismore businesses, it was taking measures to a whole new level.The Lismore App revealed in September that Joel Jensen Construction built a new building on Elliot Road on a floating slab to counteract Lismore's famous pug soil, and that the first-floor walls were built with SipForm, a new foam product that is water-resistant, mould-resistant and fire-retardant."Basically, the way we've built this, when the water comes through, we'll open up the doors, open up the roller doors at the back, lift out our tables and chairs that we've got. Other than that, everything else is pretty flood-resistant. We'll just let the water go through, have a couple of stubbies, let it go down, hose it out, and play on," Joel said. He estimated his downtime to be a week at most.On the southern end of South Lismore at the Mountain Blue Packing Facility on Habib Drive, Managing Director Andrew Bell explained their new fish tank resilience measures, which he describes as "completely flood proof"."It's large panels made out of this sort of carbon fibre product. They're fairly light. We have them stored at the shed."We bring them out. They're bolted to the floor. They're reinforced. It takes about a day and a half to put them up. We've practised several times, the team's pretty good at it."We take a pretty conservative approach. If we think there's going to be an issue, we throw it up. It's about 16/17 feet high."Unfortunately, we can't test the product, but we're fairly confident. We've seen it in person in Florida, where it floods a lot, so we have a fair level of confidence."Both Joel and Andrew have said that buying and installing flood resilient measures is cheaper than the alternative, which is buying land out of flood in Goonellabah or Alstonville and building new premises.Taking the cost aside, both men have grown up in the area and want to remain in South Lismore."Lismore is part of our family and what we do. And so, if we can, we'd rather not leave. I think it's really important that people do stay and invest in the region.Another twist in the tail was finding available land, let alone the cost. The new report noted that the lack of suitable industrial land in the Northern Rivers was a barrier to business growth.The second part of the solution for Lismore and Northern Rivers growth is collaboration. Collaboration between LGAs and businesses.It has been something that has been attempted before, through the formation of the Northern Rivers Joint Organisation (NRJO), yet we have not seen a regional master plan or any evidence of a cohesive approach to increase the Gross Regional Product.There is work being done through Business NSW Northern Region with ProspER, which is a business-led initiative to build and unlock the full potential of our region. Deloitte noted in its report that a coordinated regional land-release and servicing strategy is needed to help deliver infrastructure where it is most needed. That can only be done by local council's working together for a greater good.

The NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA) yesterday released its landmark report revealing the scale of economic disruption experienced in Lismore and the Northern Rivers following three natural disasters over the past six years.The Northern Rivers Economic Profile and Natural Hazard Impacts Report, created by Deloitte Access Economics, examines the cumulative impact of the 2019–20 bushfires, the 2022 floods and ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred in 2025 on the region. The report does not look at any one city/town in isolation, so although Lismore was the hardest hit in the 2022 floods, the impact is on a regional level.This landmark study is a first for regional Australia; it provides the most comprehensive assessment to date of how the disaster has affected the region’s people, infrastructure and future development. Insights from this report will directly inform the Northern Rivers Disaster Adaptation Plan, the first region-wide plan to reduce disaster risk.A group of prominent businesspeople, Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin and local Mayors attended a breakfast at the Lismore Workers Club, where the report was presented. They discovered that the Northern Rivers Gross Regional Product (GRP) – the value of all goods and services produced for the Northern Rivers – took a cumulative $4 billion hit from these disasters over the past six years.The report also estimates that these disasters resulted in $6.9 billion of socio-economic costs, of which, $3.7 billion was associated with the 2022 floods.The economic recovery varied following each disaster, with the 2022 floods taking eight months and ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred taking one month.The costs include economic losses to businesses, homeowners and public assets, as well as indirect economic impacts from lost productivity and supply chain disruption. Plus, the social costs to health and mental well-being. And finally, the money spent by all levels of government in emergency response, recovery and government support.Encouragingly, despite these devastating economic impacts, the report found that the region’s GRP still grew by 17.9% in real terms since 2019, reaching $22.8 billion in 2024. This growth matches that of Regional NSW at 18% (for the same period), which has not experienced the same range of natural hazard disasters as the Northern Rivers.David Rumbens, a Partner at Deloitte Access Economics, said government spending has certainly contributed to the Northern Rivers recovery and the region's GRP, but there are underlying economic strengths of its own."The region has many strengths across agriculture, forestry, tourism, healthcare, construction. Part of the government effort is supporting the region, so it's contributing to the region's growth, but the region has its own underlying strengths."Key industries like agriculture and tourism were highly exposed to the impacts of natural hazards, while businesses identified the vulnerability of the region’s infrastructure—power, transport, and telecommunications— as a major concern. Other challenges include high insurance costs, housing shortages, labour stress, and the cumulative impact of disasters on business viability and wellbeing.The report stated that insurance costs had risen 94% between 2021 and 2024.Report findings will help identify priority risks, shape targeted risk reduction actions and support the development of long-term adaptation pathways to deliver the greatest social and economic benefit for the region.As this next stage of adaptation and recovery planning begins, the RA is committed to working closely with local communities. Their insights and experience will be central to shaping an adaptation plan that reflects local priorities, shapes targeted risk reduction actions, strengthens resilience, and supports long-term regional renewal.To find out more about the Northern Rivers Adaptation Plan, go to https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/nsw-reconstruction-authority/our-work/disaster-adaptation-plans/northern-rivers-dap.NSW Reconstruction Authority A/Head, Adaptation, Mitigation & Reconstruction Kristie Clarke said, “We all know that economies take a hit every time disaster strikes. Now, for the first time, we have measured the true size of the hit to the Northern Rivers economy across three disasters.“We need to collaborate, innovate and work together, across industries and businesses, to champion resilience, invest in adaptation and shape an economically strong and disaster-resilient Northern Rivers.“Encouragingly, this report highlights that many businesses in the Northern Rivers are already taking the necessary steps towards that goal.”

Kate Fitzgerald has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of the NSW Reconstruction Authority, following a competitive recruitment process.With an extensive career spanning the full emergency management spectrum, including senior executive and CEO positions in both the Victorian and Commonwealth Governments, Ms Fitzgerald returns to her home state almost 25 years after first joining the NSW SES as a volunteer.As CEO, Ms Fitzgerald will lead disaster recovery and preparedness efforts across New South Wales, ensuring communities are better supported to rebuild and become more resilient in the face of future events.Ms Fitzgerald’s appointment follows Kate Meagher, who led the NSW Reconstruction Authority as interim CEO while recruitment was underway. The role was made vacant after Mal Lanyon became the state’s 24th Police Commissioner. Ms Fitzgerald will start in the role on 9 February 2026Established in December 2022, the NSW Reconstruction Authority works proactively to reduce the impact of floods, fires and other major disasters, while coordinating recovery efforts to ensure communities can rebuild stronger.More information about the NSW Reconstruction Authority and its preparedness and recovery programs is available at https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/nsw-reconstruction-authority.Minister for Recovery, Janelle Saffin, said, “Kate’s passion, commitment and extensive experience in disaster management and community safety equip her well to lead the NSW Reconstruction Authority.“Just like the thousands of people around our state, who don uniforms out of a sense of duty to their community, Kate started on the frontline as a NSW SES volunteer.“From these humble beginnings, she has built a remarkable career which has taken her into some of the most senior leadership positions in the country.“Her leadership will be invaluable as NSW continues long-term recovery efforts and strengthens preparedness for the increasing frequency and severity of disasters.“I want to thank Mal Lanyon for his leadership in supporting communities to recover from the Northern Rivers floods and other disasters over the last two years. Kate is the perfect person to carry this legacy forward.”“I also acknowledge and thank all NSW Reconstruction Authority staff for their dedication to supporting communities in preparedness and recovery right across our state.”Incoming CEO, Kate Fitzgerald said, “Starting out as an SES volunteer in this state taught me the foundations of public service – community, commitment and stepping up when it matters most.  “To return now and lead the NSW Reconstruction Authority with all that I have learned is truly an honour. “I am looking forward to working alongside our dedicated staff, partners and the communities we serve.“Together, we can build on our agency’s strengths and continue to grow the resilience of our state – ensuring that every community is better prepared, better supported and better connected for the challenges ahead.”

As mentioned early this morning, Lismore City Council has unveiled its 2025 Community Christmas Tree, marking ten years since staff first began building large-scale trees in the CBD. Interestingly, upcycled is the term used in 2025, where it has been recycled in the previous 9 years.The tree went up this morning on the corner of Keen and Magellan streets, much to the delight of locals who now make a sport of viewing, judging, critiquing and enjoying the design each year. Lismore CouncilThis year’s tree features more than 150 upcycled kerbside bin lids, mostly yellow, wrapped in fairy lights and decorated with recycled toys from the Revolve Shop, as a bright reminder to the community to keep recycling and to signal that the city is open for business.Since 2015, Council staff have turned everything from old bikes and tyres to road signs, umbrellas, potted plants, recycled drums and hundreds of PET bottles into Christmas trees in their own time, each one built from materials recovered through local waste and recycling services. Lismore City Council General Manager Eber Butron said the project has been a rare mix of creativity, engineering and civic pride. “This tree began as a simple idea, staff volunteering to give something back to the community, and it has grown into a decade-long showcase of what a circular economy looks like when you take it seriously,” he said. “Thank you to the 2025 team of staff who, in their own time, put this together and join other staff members over the years who have welded, painted, wired or dragged materials out of the recycling stream to make Christmas in Lismore unique.”Council’s Infrastructure Project Manager Martin Soutar, who led this year’s team, said this year’s multi-coloured bin lid design is a deliberate full circle moment. (The 2025 Christmas tree features soft toys and Santa on each side)“We wanted the tenth tree to be a fun yet blunt reminder that what goes in your kerbside recycling bin matters,” he said. “We need to limit what goes into the red bin and maximise what we recycle into the green and yellow bins”“We hope the community enjoys the design, has a fantastic festive season and makes sure Christmas and holiday season packaging ends up in the right bin.”Around the rest of the CBD over the coming days, Council will install more traditional decorations, including the much-loved Santa holding up the iconic bent pine Christmas tree, with decorations hanging from trees, wrapped around bollards and scattered through key streets and centres to bring Lismore to life with Christmas cheer.Also adding to the Christmas cheer, Council is rolling out a Christmas in Lismore program that includes Carols in the Heart this Saturday (6 December) featuring Lismore’s own Rachael Beck with Rhydian and the Residuals, Bunny Racket, Hillbilly Skank, Isabella A Capella, Luke Vasella and a visit from Santa, Santa’s Wonderland at Lismore Regional Gallery from 5 to 21 December, an Elf Hunt in CBD shop windows throughout December and Pawtraits at the Lismore Quad on 6, 13 and 20 December. For more information on Christmas festivities in Lismore, visit www.xmasinlismore.com.

A new opportunity for the Northern Rivers’ emerging leaders to connect, learn and grow will launch this week with the establishment of the Northern Rivers Young Professionals Network - a Business NSW Regional Leaders initiative created to empower the region’s next generation of talent.A free event will be held at Ballina RSL this Wednesday, 3 December from 3.30pm to 6.00pm, featuring inspiring speakers followed by relaxed networking drinks and nibbles.Business NSW Regional Director Jane Laverty said the initiative comes at a critical time for the region as its young workforce grows and diversifies.“We have a growing number of young people staying in the region and others who grew up here returning sooner than ever before. I think it’s important they see the grass is just as green here as in the cities - and that starts with creating meaningful opportunities for them to connect with each other,” Ms Laverty said.The Network is open to 20–39-year-olds who live and work in the Northern Rivers and are looking to build their careers, deepen local connections and strengthen their leadership capability. Participants will be able to engage with peers from across industries, hear from local leaders and contribute their ideas on the future of the region.“This initiative is about building a strong pipeline of future leaders who see the Northern Rivers as a place where they can thrive, make an impact and be part of shaping what comes next for our region,” Ms Laverty said.Business NSW encourages young professionals across the Northern Rivers, from early career starters to emerging managers and entrepreneurs, to register now via Humanitx or by emailing eryn.berryman@businessnsw.comEVENT DETAILSWhat: Northern Rivers Young Professionals Network – Launch EventWhen: 3.30pm–6.00pm, Wednesday 3 DecemberWhere: Ballina RSLCost: FreeWho: Young professionals aged 20–39Inclusions: Professional development speakers, networking drinks and nibblesRegistration: Essential – https://events.humanitix.com/northern-rivers-young-professionals.“I am keen to meet our emerging leaders and hear their insights on what we need to do to ensure this region continues to retain and attract the best talent and this will directly influence the ProspER Northern Rivers – Regional Economic Development Plan 2040 recommendations. They are integral to our future prosperity and sustainability as a region.” Mrs Laverty said.

Lismore will be a hive of activity in the flood recovery building space in 2026. The Resilient Lands Program has been in the planning and negotiation stage for many years, and very soon, according to Member for Lismore and Minister for Recovery, Janelle Saffin, it will finally be time to build.In the latest Talking Lismore podcast, Ms Saffin also discussed the new Northern Rivers Economic Profile and Natural Hazard Impacts Report put together by the highly respected international firm, Deloitte at the request of the NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA).More will be said about the report in the coming days as it is being presented to 80-plus business owners and managers at breakfast meeting today at the Lismore Workers Club.The report looks at the socio-economic impact of three natural disasters: the 2019 Bushfires, the 2022 Floods and Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred in March this year. The 2022 Floods obviously had the highest socio-economic cost, $3.7 billion, compared to $2 billion for Alfred and $1.2 billion for the bushfires.One of the takeaways from the report that impressed Ms Saffin, was the strength and resilience of our regional economy."In some areas, we started better off than other regions, and we've continued that. Part of it was our diverse economy as well. Yes, we took a hit with the floods, and that's measurable, and we can see it, but even with that, we've sustained that strength and resilience. So that was a pleasant surprise to me."That diversity is the different types of industries that keep our city ticking over. In Lismore, it is service-led industries, like Health Care and Social Assistance, Education & Training, and Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing, to name the top three."It has sustained us throughout all the shocks we've had from COVID, or bushfires, or floods, you know, disasters. Some people clearly took a battering, but it has sustained us. And it was a pleasant surprise to read it. We know it locally, because we live here in Lismore, but in the region, we're quite strong."But also, we don't really have a regional economic strategy, and it would be good if we could come together to develop that. Now, two things are underway: Business NSW Regional Northern, with Jane Laverty, is doing some really groundbreaking work on PROSPER. I was able to get them $250,000, a very small investment to do this work. They're looking at the big picture in the region and asking what more can we do? All the businesses have been engaged in it. So there's some great work going on there."PROSPER involves local councils; however, it is business-led, so Ms Saffin has more confidence in its success when looking at future growth industries for the Northern Rivers than with the Northern Rivers Joint Organisation (NRJO)."I would hope that they could lead in some of that work. And also, quite a few years ago, I did get some funding put aside to do the vision work and the scoping work for a Regional Economic Master Plan, and that hasn't seen the light of day yet."Over the years, it's been a real challenge to lead something at a regional scale through forerunners to the NRJO. They did agree that we should have a master plan, but it's still limping along. That is the kindest way I can say it. I did get money. It was put aside. And then, of course, it disappeared, because two years down the track, it wasn't used. And I said, It becomes very difficult to keep hanging on to government money."RESILIENT LANDS PROGRAMThe progress being made on the 50 Build to Rent properties in East Lismore is impressive. Of course, it took quite some time to get to this point because of the negotiated sale of the land from Southern Cross University to the RA, and the planning and approval process that is involved."Landcom are doing it, and Landcom are experienced. They're experienced developers. So it's absolutely great to have them charging ahead. I felt the same. I announced it over a year and a half ago, talked about it, looked at it, but it's going."And now, within a week or so, we'll also be out there with the other part of the development, up to 400 sites. So we're cracking on with that. That will be soon."And then North Lismore. That land is now owned by the government under the Resilient Lands Program. Signed the contract, done deal. That will be with Homes New South Wales. So, that's another one you'll hear about more soon, but they're getting ready to go."Richmond River High School, that's signed off too. I actually signed it as Minister for Recovery that Section 68. So let's crack on."South Lismore Public School has started preparatory work for its build as another sign of recovery, and when we spoke about the progress being made at Mt Pleasant Estate in Goonellabah, we could take about the scaffolding around the houses."Words fail me as to the glacial pace, that's all I'll say. I'll leave it there," Ms Saffin lamented.THE PACER PROGRAMFinally, we have someone employed to be the PACER (Police Ambulance Clinical Early Response) person to help keep the CBD safe. The PACER program is a collaboration between NSW Police, NSW Ambulance and the Northern NSW Local Health District, in this case."Someone wants the job, and it's like hallelujah. She's been on the ground a couple of weeks and out and about with the police. That was the whole purpose of PACER working hand in glove with police, and Acting Superintendent Susie Johnston has welcomed her."Police get called out a lot, and as we know, and quite often, it's because of disturbances by people with mental health, and the PACER person can work with them. The police are law enforcers, that's what they do, and they do it well, but having someone with them who is a trained clinician practitioner can help de-escalate or defuse a situation. They can help if they need to be taken into some care, get that to happen or work all of that out. It just diffuses situations and can be safer as well for police and the people."EAST LISMORE SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANTThe East Lismore Treatment Plant has been in a stalemate for some time, so it was time to ask Ms Saffin, as Minister for Recovery, for an update. Lismore City Council want over $80 million to rebuild the plant and put it out of future floods. Mayor Krieg has said they have been offered $36 million."First of all, as the Member for Lismore, I live in Lismore. If we could build it so that it was much better than what it was, because it was pretty ordinary, it wasn't in good shape, and if we could build it back better and it was out of flood, that's fantastic. That's what I want as a local person. "But the $145 million that was announced. I was at the announcement. I saw the language in the media release. And I've always cautioned ministers about being careful, under promise and over deliver, because I've been in so many disasters. I see the language. So, I was there, and that was Minister Kevin Anderson in Premier Perrottet's government that announced it. At the time, I was told it was for immediate repairs to water and wastewater networks, emergency works, then longer term, permanent repairs, and in some cases, there could be increased flood resilience that were feasible within the $145 million allocation. "I think reading it, we might think it's just for Lismore, it's not, it was for the Northern Rivers region, and it was announced for the Northern Rivers region. It was announced for seven local government areas, Clarence, Richmond Valley, Kyogle, Lismore, Ballina, Byron, Tweed and Rous County Council. So, everyone had to share in it. Lismore would get the lion's share, understandably, so, up to $80 million, up to the waste and the water, and everyone else had to share in that. "The first time I heard about it was when the mayor was going to meet with the premier about it, and I said, show me what was said and done, what was promised, because I had stuff from NRRC and Reconstruction Authority and Public Works. I said, show me where it said that, and I don't have anything that shows me that. "I do understand that the then General Manager, just after the floods, had said it would be over $100 million he wanted. I remember that, but I haven't seen anything in writing. What I do have in writing contradicts that."I'm not saying I don't want it. I do. I'm a Lismore resident. But also, I did say, prosecute it outside of this. This was locked in ages ago, the $145 mill, and it was for all the councils. So, put your argument forward separately."It sounds like Lismore City Council, Mayor Steve Krieg and General Manager Eber Butron need to sit down with Minister for Recovery, Janelle Saffin, and finalise a path forward.The full Talking Lismore podcast can be heard by clicking the link, or for Lismore App website readers, click here.

December 1; yes, it's the first day of summer, but more importantly, it is a day when Christmas spirit kicks in around Lismore.This morning, Lismore City Council constructed and revealed its 2025 Christmas tree in the Magellan/Keen Street roundabout island. It is always a topic of conversation around town.The South Lismore Post Office has completed its renovation (South Lismore PO receives historic timbers from Pine Street for Christmas), and is now decorated. Tracy and her family are ready to flick the Christmas Lights switch tonight.The Lismore App Christmas button has also launched today on the front page, just look for the tree.As usual, we have a list of Christmas fun and activities for you to peruse, such as:CarolsEvents and MarketsCharity Pop-ups and gift wrappingWe have also introduced something new this year: Lismore App Christmas Music.When the Christmas Lights list goes live, we want you to be able to play Christmas music in the car with the push of a button. There is nothing better than families singing along to Jingle Bells or All I Want For Christmas Is You loudly while doing the annual Christmas Light drive.The Christmas Lights button will be switched on soon. We are giving households another week to finish their Christmas decorations.If you have a Christmas light display, don't hesitate to get in touch, so we can add your house to the list displayed on the Lismore App. Or, if you know of an event or markets we haven't covered, email simon@lismoreapp.com.au.Santa visits, Church Services and Christmas Messages will be added to the Christmas button in the coming weeks.We are definitely on the downhill run towards Christmas and the end of the year. Students finish the school year on Friday, December 19, and Christmas Day is just over three weeks away.Remember to shop local.